bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parameter uncertainty of the AWBM model when applied to an ungauged catchment
Authors: Haque Md Mahmudul , Rahman Ataur , Hagare Dharma , Kibria Golam
Published: July 2014

In this study, a quantitative assessment of uncertainty was made in connection with the calibration of Australian Water Balance Model (AWBM) for both gauged and ungauged catchment cases. For the gauged catchment, five different rainfall data sets, 23 different calibration data lengths and eight different optimization techniques were adopted. For the ungauged catchment case, the optimum parameter sets obtained from the nearest gauged catchment were transposed to the ungauged catchments, and two regional prediction equations were used to estimate runoff. Uncertainties were ascertained by comparing the observed and modelled runoffs by the AWBM on the basis of different combinations of methods, model parameters and input data. The main finding from this study was that the uncertainties in the AWBM modelling outputs could vary from −1.3% to 70% owing to different input rainfall data, −5.7% to 11% owing to different calibration data lengths and −6% to 0.2% owing to different optimization techniques adopted in the calibration of the AWBM. The performance of the AWBM model was found to be dominated mainly by the selection of appropriate rainfall data followed by the selection of an appropriate calibration data length and optimization algorithm. Use of relatively short data length (e.g. 3 to 6 years) in the calibration was found to generate relatively poor results. Effects of different optimization techniques on the calibration were found to be minimal. The uncertainties reported here in relation to the calibration and runoff estimation by the AWBM model are relevant to the selected study catchments, which are likely to differ for other catchments. The methodology presented in this paper can be applied to other catchments in Australia and other countries using AWBM and similar rainfall–runoff models. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Single‐cell measurement of the uptake, intratumoral distribution and cell cycle effects of cisplatin using mass cytometry
Authors: Chang Qing , Ornatsky Olga I. , Koch Cameron J. , Chaudary Naz , Marie‐Egyptienne Delphine T. , Hill Richard P. , Tanner Scott D. , Hedley David W.
Published: July 2014

Although of fundamental importance to the treatment of cancer patients, the quantitative study of drug distribution and action in vivo at the single cell level is challenging. We used the recently‐developed technique of mass cytometry to measure cisplatin uptake into individual tumor cells (Pt atoms/cell), combined with measurement of the rate of IdU incorporation into DNA (I127 atoms/cell/min) and tumor hypoxia identified by the 2‐nitroimidazole EF5 in cisplatin‐treated BxPC‐3 and ME‐180 xenografts. Pt levels of 105 to 106 atoms/cell were obtained following a single cisplatin treatment using clinically relevant doses. Cisplatin caused cell cycle arrest in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner that paralleled effects in vitro, and it readily penetrated into hypoxic tumor regions. Similar levels of Pt/cell were found in xenografts treated with oxaliplatin. Mass cytometry offers the unique capability to study the cellular uptake and anticancer effects of platinum‐containing drugs at the single cell level in animal models, and it has the potential for application to samples obtained from cancer patients during treatment.
Including ligand‐induced protein flexibility into protein tunnel prediction
Authors: Kingsley Laura J. , Lill Markus A.
Published: July 2014

In proteins with buried active sites, understanding how ligands migrate through the tunnels that connect the exterior of the protein to the active site can shed light on substrate specificity and enzyme function. A growing body of evidence highlights the importance of protein flexibility in the binding site on ligand binding; however, the influence of protein flexibility throughout the body of the protein during ligand entry and egress is much less characterized. We have developed a novel tunnel prediction and evaluation method named IterTunnel, which includes the influence of ligand‐induced protein flexibility, guarantees ligand egress, and provides detailed free energy information as the ligand proceeds along the egress route. IterTunnel combines geometric tunnel prediction with steered molecular dynamics in an iterative process to identify tunnels that open as a result of ligand migration and calculates the potential of mean force of ligand egress through a given tunnel. Applying this new method to cytochrome P450 2B6, we demonstrate the influence of protein flexibility on the shape and accessibility of tunnels. More importantly, we demonstrate that the ligand itself, while traversing through a tunnel, can reshape tunnels due to its interaction with the protein. This process results in the exposure of new tunnels and the closure of preexisting tunnels as the ligand migrates from the active site. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
DFT assessment of the spectroscopic constants and absorption spectra of neutral and charged diatomic species of group 11 and 14 elements
Authors: Tsipis Athanassios C.
Published: July 2014

The spectroscopic constants and absorption spectra of neutral and charged diatomic molecules of group 11 and 14 elements formulated as [M2]+/0/−(M = Cu, Ag, Au), and [E2]+/0/−(E = C, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb) have been calculated at the PBE0/Def2‐QZVPP level of theory. The electronic and bonding properties of the diatomics have been analyzed by natural bond orbital analysis approach and topology analysis by the atoms in molecules method. Particular emphasis was given on the absorption spectra of the diatomic species, which were simulated by time‐dependent density functional theory calculations employing the hybrid Coulomb‐attenuating CAM‐B3LYP density functional. The simulated absorption spectra of the [M2]+/0/−(M = Cu, Ag, Au) and [E2]+/0/−(E = C, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb) species are in close resemblance with the experimentally observed spectra whenever available. The neutral M2and E2diatomics strongly absorb in the ultraviolet region, given rise to UVC, UVA and in a few cases UVB absorptions. In a few cases, weak absorbion bands also occur in the visible region. The absorption bands have thoroughly been analyzed and assignments of the contributing principal electronic transitions associated to individual excitations have been made. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Soluble Expression of Bladder Cancer Biomarker Matrix Metalloproteinase 1
Authors: Jin Xuefei , Zhang Dan , Li Hongyan , Jin Ning , Liu Tingting , Kong Xiangbo
Published: July 2014

Background

Matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1) has been shown as a novel unique biomarker of bladder cancer in urine. MMP1 can only be detected using conventional and time‐consuming methods, such as ELISA and Western. Refolded MMP1 has been achieved and used in probe screen for many years, while there is no clinical application for MMP1 detection until now. Soluble expression of MMP1 is necessary in urine detection.

Methods

cDNA of MMP1 has been isolated from human embryonic kidney 293(HEK293) cells. The catalytic domain of MMP1 is expressed as fusion protein with Escherichia coli thioredoxin (TrxA). The 30 kDa recombinant proteins were purified by Ni‐chelating chromatography. The activity of soluble MMP1 was determined and compared with refolded MMP1 by zymography.

Results

Compared with refolded MMP1, TrxA can increase the solubility of MMP1. The soluble MMP1 has the same protein sequences with refolded MMP1 and increased 1.54‐fold of gelatin‐degradation activities than refolded MMP1.

Conclusion

Successfully soluble expression of MMP1 has been achieved by fusion expression and will make progress in discovering specific molecular probes against MMP1.
Serum Levels of Soluble Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor in Infants with Late‐onset Sepsis
Authors: Okulu Emel , Arsan Saadet , Akin Ilke Mungan , Ates Can , Alan Serdar , Kilic Atila , Atasay Begum
Published: July 2014

Background

Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) has been studied in a variety of diseases. The aim of the study is to investigate the levels of suPAR in neonates with sepsis.

Methods

The infants enrolled to this prospective study were classified into four groups. Group 1, 2, and 3 were referred as the patient groups (40 infants), and group 4 was referred as control group (26 infants). Blood samples for whole blood count, C‐reactive protein (CRP), suPAR and blood culture were obtained before initiating antimicrobial therapy, and two further samples were obtained on day 3 and at the end of the treatment for CRP and suPAR.

Results

The mean gestational ages of patient and control groups was similar. The median level of initial suPAR was 18.8 ng/mL (range 6.8–30.1 ng/mL) in the patient groups, and 6.0 ng/mL (range 3.7–10.8 ng/mL) in the control group (P < 0.001). A significant decrease in suPAR level was observed from the inclusion to the third day and end of the treatment (P < 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) for suPAR is 0.959 (95% Cl: 0.919–0.999) and for CRP is 0.782 (95% Cl: 0.669–0.895). At a cut‐off value of 11.3 ng/mL for suPAR the specificity was 100%, and the sensitivity was 82.5%. There was a positive correlation between laboratory values of CRP and suPAR (r: 0.359, P = 0.003).

Conclusion

This is the first study that investigated the levels of suPAR in neonates and our results demonstrate that suPAR is a powerful marker of inflammation in infants with sepsis.
Private Chinese Investment in Ethiopia: Determinants and Location Decisions
Authors: Seyoum Mebratu , Lin Jihong
Published: July 2014

Using a unique firm‐level data from the World Bank Survey on Chinese outbound direct investment conducted in Ethiopia in 2012, this study examines the determinants and location decisions of private Chinese investment in Ethiopia. Principal components factor analysis shows that (i) Chinese firms invest in Ethiopia to take advantage of their ownership advantages, (ii) market access motives are influential in investment location decision‐making and (iii) host government incentive packages towards inward foreign direct investment affect their location decisions, albeit less influential than other factors. These results remain robust when we controlled for two separate clusters of Chinese firms. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diffusion tensor imaging assesses triceps surae dysfunction after achilles tenotomy in rats
Authors: Hara Yusuke , Ikoma Kazuya , Kido Masamitsu , Sukenari Tsuyoshi , Arai Yuji , Fujiwara Hiroyoshi , Kawata Mitsuhiro , Kubo Toshikazu
Published: July 2014

Purpose

To elucidate the relationship of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) with structural changes and muscle function in skeletal muscle.

Materials and Methods

The subjects were 21 12‐week‐old male rats. Achilles tenotomy was performed on the right legs. Proton density‐weighted images and DTI (7.04T) of the triceps surae at 2 and 4 weeks posttenotomy were obtained. Eigenvalues (λ) and fractional anisotropy (FA) were calculated from the muscle images. After imaging, histological specimens of the triceps surae were prepared. The long axis and cross‐sectional area of the triceps surae were measured 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively. The strength of ankle plantar flexion was measured. Correlations of DTI parameters with morphological values and muscle strength were analyzed.

Results

λ1 declined after tenotomy (P < 0.01), and λ2 and λ3 declined at 4 weeks posttenotomy (P < 0.01). FA increased at 4 weeks posttenotomy (P < 0.01). Atrophy of the triceps surae was observed in the tissues images of the treatment group. The muscle belly significantly shortened postoperatively, and a decline in plantar flexion force was observed after tenotomy. Positive correlations were observed between λ1 and muscle strength (r = 0.89) and between λ1 and the length of the long axis of the muscle belly (r = 0.81).

Conclusion

DTI may serve as a marker of muscle function. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:1541–1548. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterisation of metal carboxylates by Raman and infrared spectroscopy in works of art
Authors: Otero Vanessa , Sanches Diogo , Montagner Cristina , Vilarigues Márcia , Carlyle Leslie , Lopes João A. , Melo Maria J.
Published: July 2014

This work introduces the complementary use of μ‐Raman and μ‐Fourier transform infrared (IR) spectroscopy for the detection of specific carbon chains and cations for the identification of metal carboxylates within oil paint microsamples. Metal carboxylates (metal soaps) form naturally when free fatty acids react with metal cations and may also be found as additives or degradation products. Twenty‐two metal carboxylates were synthesised, and their spectra assembled in a reference database. Metal salts of cations commonly present in oil paintings were used, including lead, zinc, calcium, cadmium, copper and manganese. The fatty acids selected were the saturated acids palmitic (C16 : 0) and stearic (C18 : 0) and the polyunsaturated oleic acid (C18 : 1). Azelaic acid (C9 diacid), a product resulting from autoxidation of polyunsaturated acids, was also included. Metal carboxylates were characterised by Raman and IR spectroscopy, and their structures were confirmed by X‐ray diffraction. Raman and IR spectroscopy proved to be complementary techniques for a full identification of the metal carboxylates in complex aged paint. Raman enables the differentiation of the carbon chain length in the C–C stretching region (1120–1040 cm−1), and IR distinguishes the metal cation in the COO− stretching absorption region (1650–1380 cm−1). Principal component analysis was applied to the spectra in order to facilitate a fast and accurate method to discriminate between the different metal carboxylates and to aide in their identification. Finally, spectra from case studies were successfully projected in the principal component analysis models built, enabling a higher confidence level for the identification of copper palmitate and copper azelate in two 19th‐century Portuguese oil paintings. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of acid whey and mustard seed on lipid oxidation of organic fermented sausage without nitrite
Authors: Karwowska Małgorzata , Wójciak Karolina M , Dolatowski Zbigniew J
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND

The influence of the addition of mustard seed and acid whey on the stability of nitrite‐free organic fermented sausage during 90 days of vacuum storage was investigated by measuring primary and secondary products of lipid oxidation, changes in fatty acid composition and antioxidant capacity, as well as water activity.

RESULTS

The native and autoclaved mustard seed with acid whey can be used in the composition of organic fermented sausage without nitrite with beneficial effect on pH, water activity, antioxidant capacity and oxidation stability during vacuum storage. The use of the combination of acid whey and mustard seed resulted in an effective decrease in pH of organic fermented sausage during fermentation. The inclusion of mustard seed to the sausage with acid whey significantly increased the capacity of stuffing to capture the radical cation ABTS. During the whole storage period the TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) values of salted sausage samples with the addition of acid whey with combination of mustard seed were similar to the control sample with curing agent.

CONCLUSION

In general, results suggest that mustard seed with combination of acid whey can be successfully applied to protect organic fermented sausages without nitrite from lipid oxidation. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Ketanserin, a serotonin 2A receptor antagonist, alleviates ischemia-related biliary fibrosis following donation after cardiac death liver transplantation in rats
Authors: Chen Liping , Chen Geng , Guo Yibin , Liu Lei , Xiao Li , Fan Wenmei , Shi Bingyi , Qian Yeyong
Published: July 2014

Biliary fibrosis is a major complication after donation after cardiac death (DCD) liver transplantation. In this process, the roles of serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] and the 5-HT2A receptor subtype are still unknown. In this study, we analyzed markers of portal fibroblast (PF)/myofibroblast (MF) transdifferentiation such as transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), phosphorylated smad2/3, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, and collagen III in a primary culture system of PFs after the administration of 5-HT or 5-HT plus ketanserin (a selective 5-HT2A receptor antagonist). A rat DCD transplant model was established with 30 minutes of warm ischemia and 4 hours of cold ischemia during organ procurement. Recipients were intraperitoneally injected with ketanserin (1 mg·kg−1·day−1) or normal saline. Grafts without in situ warm ischemia instead of minimal cold storage (30 minutes) served as controls. The serum biochemistry, the liver contents of 5-HT and hydroxyproline (HYP), and the expression of fibrosis-related genes (including TGF-β1, matrix metalloproteinase 2, procollagen α1, and α-SMA messenger RNA) were determined. The extent of biliary fibrosis was also assessed histopathologically. The results indicated that ketanserin inhibited 5-HT–activated TGF-β1–smad2/3 signaling in vitro and thereby depressed the MF conversion of PFs. Rats receiving DCD livers showed increased liver contents of 5-HT and HYP, impaired biliary function, up-regulation of fibrosis-related genes, and aggravated biliary fibrosis. However, these phenomena were alleviated by treatment with ketanserin. We concluded that the profibrotic activity of 5-HT occurred through the activation of TGF-β1 signaling and the 5-HT2A receptor. Thus, these data suggest that the 5-HT2A receptor may be a potential therapeutic target for ischemia-related biliary fibrosis after DCD liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 20:1317-1326, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Separation of Polypropylene Polymers by Crystallization and Adsorption Techniques
Authors: Monrabal Benjamin , Romero Loli
Published: July 2014

The fractionation of industrial polypropylene resins by crystallization or adsorption is a challenging task due to the existence of stereoregularity and the fact that homopolymer and propylene‐rich copolymers are semicrystalline, as is the case with polyethylene homopolymer, which is usually present in complex polypropylene resins. The separation mechanisms involved in crystallization and adsorption techniques are investigated. Crystallization techniques and adsorption chromatography on graphitized carbon using a temperature gradient separate the full range of propylene ethylene copolymers following a U‐shaped curve and cannot provide unequivocal compositional results. The addition of an infrared detector to measure the level of branches at each elution temperature provides a new dimension that better defines the separated components. A step further in separation is using cross‐fractionation chromatography (composition followed by molar‐mass separation), which makes use of all the mechanisms investigated to provide the most‐extended separation of complex high‐impact polypropylene resins.

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Preparation of Chain‐Extended Poly(hexamethylene carbonate)s and their Block Copolymerization with Poly‐L‐lactide to Synthesize Partly Biobased Thermoplastic Elastomers
Authors: Kobayashi Koji , Kanmuri Shuhei , Hayashi Yuichiro , Masutani Kazunari , Kimura Yoshiharu
Published: July 2014

An oligomer of poly(hexamethylene carbonate) (PHMC) that is synthesized by ester‐exchanging polycondensation of ethylene carbonate and 1,6‐hexanediol is chain‐extended by using diphenyl carbonate as chain extender. The resultant PHMC, dihydroxyl‐terminated, is then subjected to tin‐catalyzed ring‐opening polymerization of L‐lactide to prepare ABA tri‐block copolymers consisting of poly‐L‐lactide (PLLA: A) and PHMC (B), which retain significantly high molecular weights even at increased contents of PHMC. Polymer films of these block copolymers exhibit high elongation, reaching 700% at a high PHMC content. It is therefore suggested that the present block copolymer system can be a novel thermoplastic elastomer, which is partly bio‐based.
High‐frequency oscillations in Parkinson's disease: Spatial distribution and clinical relevance
Authors: Wang Jing , Hirschmann Jan , Elben Saskia , Hartmann Christian J. , Vesper Jan , Wojtecki Lars , Schnitzler Alfons
Published: July 2014

The pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD) has been related to excessive beta band oscillations in the basal ganglia. Recent recordings from the subthalamic nucleus of PD patients showed that beta oscillations show strong cross‐frequency coupling with high‐frequency oscillations (>200 Hz). However, little is known about the characteristics and functional properties of these oscillations. We studied the spatial distribution of high‐frequency oscillations and their relation to PD motor symptoms. We included 10 PD patients in medication OFF who underwent implantation of deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes. Intraoperative five‐channel microelectrode recordings were performed at 9 to 10 recording sites within the subthalamic nucleus and its immediate surroundings. We found a focal spatial distribution of high‐frequency oscillations with highest power 2 mm below the dorsolateral border of the subthalamic nucleus. Within the subthalamic nucleus, power peaked slightly anterior to the DBS target site. In addition, contralateral akinesia/rigidity scores were negatively correlated with high‐frequency oscillation power. Our results demonstrate a focal origin of high‐frequency oscillations within the subthalamic nucleus and provide further evidence for their functional association with motor state. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Prospective study of muscle cramps in Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease
Authors: Johnson Nicholas E. , Sowden Janet , Dilek Nuran , Eichinger Katy , Burns Joshua , Mcdermott Michael P. , Shy Michael E. , Herrmann David N.
Published: July 2014

Introduction: This study aims to assess the frequency, location, severity, duration, and fluctuation over time of muscle cramps in Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease (CMT). Methods: Inherited Neuropathies Consortium Contact Registry participants recorded the occurrence and characteristics of muscle cramps using an 11‐question survey administered 3 times over 8 weeks. Results: A total of 110 adult patients with CMT completed the survey. Weekly cramp frequency was 9.3 (SD 12.3), and 23% had daily muscle cramps. Twenty‐two percent reported a significant impact on quality of life. Over 8 weeks, the daily frequency and severity of muscle cramps did not change significantly. Conclusions: Patients with CMT have muscle cramps that vary little over an 8‐week period, and they may interfere with quality of life. These data may be useful in the planning of clinical trials of agents to treat adults with CMT‐associated muscle cramps. Muscle Nerve 51: 485–488, 2015
The Impact of Subnational Fiscal Policies on Economic Growth: A Dynamic Analysis Approach
Authors: Srithongrung Arwiphawee , Kriz Kenneth A.
Published: July 2014

Much previous research has analyzed the effect of state and local taxes and expenditures on economic growth, but usually in a static manner. In this paper, we use panel vector autoregression (PVAR) to examine the effects of taxes and expenditures on state income growth. This methodology allows us to treat all variables in the model as endogenously determined. Our approach allows us to address the endogeneity problem inherent in fiscal policy research as well as to obtain results for both the short term and intermediate term (up to six years). Consistent with prevailing wisdom, taxes are shown to have a negative effect on economic growth, but the effect only is present in the short run. Public capital spending has a positive effect on growth in both the short and intermediate terms. Operational expenditures exhibit positive effects on growth over the entire analysis period.
Mechanical behavior and fracture toughness of epoxy composites reinforced with combination of fibrous and spherical nanofillers
Authors: Zhang Zhongwei , Tan Yefa , Wang Xiaolong , Tan Hua , Li Jing
Published: July 2014

Epoxy nanocomposites modified with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs), rubber nanoparticles (RNPs), and the combinations of MWNTs and RNPs were prepared. The effects of multiphase reinforcements on mechanical and fracture properties of epoxy resin were investigated. With combined use of RNPs and MWNTs, the ternary nanocomposites exhibit simultaneous enhancement in stiffness, strength and fracture toughness. Maximum increase of 101% in KIC and 294% in GIC of the ternary composites were achieved in this study. A modified model was developed to predict the modulus of the ternary composites based on the Halpin‐Tsai equation, which was proved to match the experimental results exactly. DSC, TEM, SEM, and AFM studies were carried out to evaluate the composition and microstructure of the binary and ternary composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:2147–2156, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Liquid‐selenium‐enhanced grain growth of nanoparticle precursor layers for CuInSe2 solar cell absorbers
Authors: Uhl Alexander R. , Fuchs Peter , Rieger Alexandra , Pianezzi Fabian , Sutter‐Fella Carolin M. , Kranz Lukas , Keller Debora , Hagendorfer Harald , Romanyuk Yaroslav E. , LaMattina Fabio , Yoon Songhak , Karvonen Lassi , Magorian‐Friedlmeier Theresa , Ahlswede Erik , VanGenechten Dirk , Stassin Fabrice , Tiwari Ayodhya N.
Published: July 2014

Large‐grained CuInSe2 absorber layers are synthesized using a non‐vacuum process based on nanoparticle ink precursors and selenization by rapid thermal processing (RTP). The use of hydroxide‐based particles in organic solvents allows for the conversion with elemental selenium without the need to employ explosive and/or toxic H2 or H2Se gasses. Lateral grain sizes up to 4 µm are obtained through a novel RTP route, overcoming the inherently high layer porosity for previous nanoparticle processes. Morphological and elemental characterization at interrupted selenization steps suggests that liquid selenium can play a beneficial role in promoting layer densification and grain growth. Long carrier collection lengths in CuInSe2 enable notable conversion efficiencies, despite the low minority carrier lifetimes of below 1 ns. Record efficiencies up to 8.73% highlight the potential of low‐cost, non‐vacuum deposition of chalcopyrite absorber layers with safe and simple precursors and processing routes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simple solutions to complex problems: moral panic and the fluid shift from ‘equity’ to ‘quality’ in education
Authors: Mockler Nicole
Published: July 2014

Education is increasingly conceptualised by governments and policymakers in western democracies in terms of productivity and human capital, emphasising elements of individualism and competition over concerns around democracy and equity. More and more, solutions to intransigent educational problems related to equity are seen in terms of quality and accountability. This article examines the role of ‘panic’ and ‘crisis’ in the creation of this shift from discourses of equity to discourses of ‘teacher quality’ in education. Taking a recent Australian ‘policy moment’ as a case study, it highlights one manifestation of the crisis of teacher quality as represented in politicians’ speeches, press releases and interviews, and media reports. It explores how educational panic is used as a tool by politicians and policy makers to manipulate and shape public opinion, such that ‘quality’ becomes a smoke screen that effectively obscures the issue of equity in education. It argues that in a context where neoliberal technologies of standards and accountability dominate, mediating teachers’ practice and shaping teacher habitus and identity, the more likely consequence of this smoke screen is in fact the undermining of both equity and quality in education. It concludes with a call to refocus the debate around issues of substance with more generative consequences for teachers and learners.
Biodiesel exhaust–induced cytotoxicity and proinflammatory mediator production in human airway epithelial cells
Authors: Mullins Benjamin J. , Kicic Anthony , Ling Kak‐Ming , Mead‐Hunter Ryan , Larcombe Alexander N.
Published: July 2014

Increasing use of biodiesel has prompted research into the potential health effects of biodiesel exhaust exposure. Few studies directly compare the health consequences of mineral diesel, biodiesel, or blend exhaust exposures. Here, we exposed human epithelial cell cultures to diluted exhaust generated by the combustion of Australian ultralow‐sulfur‐diesel (ULSD), unprocessed canola oil, 100% canola biodiesel (B100), and a blend of 20% canola biodiesel mixed with 80% ULSD. The physicochemical characteristics of the exhaust were assessed and we compared cellular viability, apoptosis, and levels of interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8, and Regulated on Activation, Normal T cell Expressed and Secreted (RANTES) in exposed cultured cells. Different fuel types produced significantly different amounts of exhaust gases and different particle characteristics. All exposures resulted in significant apoptosis and loss of viability when compared with control, with an increasing proportion of biodiesel being correlated with a decrease in viability. In most cases, exposure to exhaust resulted in an increase in mediator production, with the greatest increases most often in response to B100. Exposure to pure canola oil (PCO) exhaust did not increase mediator production, but resulted in a significant decrease in IL‐8 and RANTES in some cases. Our results show that canola biodiesel exhaust exposure elicits inflammation and reduces viability of human epithelial cell cultures in vitro when compared with ULSD exhaust exposure. This may be related to an increase in particle surface area and number in B100 exhaust when compared with ULSD exhaust. Exposure to PCO exhaust elicited the greatest loss of cellular viability, but virtually no inflammatory response, likely due to an overall increase in average particle size. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 44–57, 2016.
Biliary Complications After Pancreaticoduodenectomy: Skinny Bile Ducts Are Surgeons’ Enemies
Authors: Duconseil Pauline , Turrini Olivier , Ewald Jacques , Berdah Stéphane V. , Moutardier Vincent , Delpero Jean‐Robert
Published: July 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and predisposing factors of biliary complications (BCs) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and report our experience in managing these BCs. Pancreatic surgery, particularly PD, has benefited from improvements in operative techniques and postoperative care and is currently safer in terms of mortality. However, the morbidity associated with PD remains high, including frequent complications such as delayed gastric emptying and pancreatic fistulas. Rarer but important BCs are those that manifest as bile leaks (BLs) and biliary strictures (BSs).

Methods

Between April 2005 and December 2011, a total of 397 patients underwent PD at two centers. All data were retrospectively studied with respect to age, gender, pancreatic pathology, neoadjuvant treatment, preoperative biliary stenting, intraoperative data, postoperative pancreatic fistula, BL and BS rates, and mortality. The management of BCs was also analyzed.

Results

Thirty patients experienced a BC: 13 BLs (3.3 %) and 17 BSs (4.3 %). A thin bile duct (<5 mm), measured during surgery, was the only predisposing factor for developing a BL or a BS. The management of the BLs consisted of surveillance in six patients (46 %), percutaneous drainage of bilioma in four patients (31 %), and reintervention in three patients (23 %). No patient with a BS had surgery as the frontline treatment: the initial management consisted of an endoscopic procedure, a percutaneous procedure, or medical treatment. Four patients (23.5 %) underwent surgical treatment after failure of nonsurgical procedures.

Conclusions

The only identified predictive factor of BC, either a BS or a BL, was a thin bile duct. Although the noninvasive technique was the treatment of choice initially, reintervention was required in almost 25 % of the cases.
Expression of NYV1 encoding the negative regulator of Pmc1 is repressed by two transcriptional repressors, Nrg1 and Mig1
Authors: Zhao Yunying , Xiong Bing , Xu Huihui , Jiang Linghuo
Published: July 2014

ESCRT components function to form multivesicular bodies for sorting of proteins destined to the yeast vacuole. The calcium hypersensitivity of ESCRT mutants is mainly due to repressed expression of PMR1 through the Rim101/Nrg1 pathway in budding yeast. Here, we show that overexpression of PMC1 and its negative regulator gene NYV1 suppresses and increases calcium hypersensitivity of ESCRT mutants, respectively. Consistently, deletion of NYV1 suppresses their calcium hypersensitivity. Expression of NYV1 is dramatically reduced in ESCRT mutants. Promoter analysis demonstrates that both Nrg1 and Mig1 repress NYV1 expression. Deletion of ESCRTs increases Nrg1 binding, but not Mig1‐binding, to the NYV1 promoter. Deletion of MIG1 increases calcium sensitivity of ESCRT mutants due to derepression of NYV1 expression.
The zinc‐binding region (ZBR) fragment of Emi2 can inhibit APC/C by targeting its association with the coactivator Cdc20 and UBE2C‐mediated ubiquitylation
Authors: Shoji Shisako , Muto Yutaka , Ikeda Mariko , He Fahu , Tsuda Kengo , Ohsawa Noboru , Akasaka Ryogo , Terada Takaho , Wakiyama Motoaki , Shirouzu Mikako , Yokoyama Shigeyuki
Published: July 2014

Anaphase‐promoting complex or cyclosome (APC/C) is a multisubunit ubiquitin ligase E3 that targets cell‐cycle regulators. Cdc20 is required for full activation of APC/C in M phase, and mediates substrate recognition. In vertebrates, Emi2/Erp1/FBXO43 inhibits APC/C‐Cdc20, and functions as a cytostatic factor that causes long‐term M phase arrest of mature oocytes. In this study, we found that a fragment corresponding to the zinc‐binding region (ZBR) domain of Emi2 inhibits cell‐cycle progression, and impairs the association of Cdc20 with the APC/C core complex in HEK293T cells. Furthermore, we revealed that the ZBR fragment of Emi2 inhibits in vitro ubiquitin chain elongation catalyzed by the APC/C cullin‐RING ligase module, the ANAPC2–ANAPC11 subcomplex, in combination with the ubiquitin chain‐initiating E2, E2C/UBE2C/UbcH10. Structural analyses revealed that the Emi2 ZBR domain uses different faces for the two mechanisms. Thus, the double‐faced ZBR domain of Emi2 antagonizes the APC/C function by inhibiting both the binding with the coactivator Cdc20 and ubiquitylation mediated by the cullin‐RING ligase module and E2C. In addition, the tail region between the ZBR domain and the C‐terminal RL residues [the post‐ZBR (PZ) region] interacts with the cullin subunit, ANAPC2. In the case of the ZBR fragment of the somatic paralogue of Emi2, Emi1/FBXO5, these inhibitory activities against cell division and ubiquitylation were not observed. Finally, we identified two sets of key residues in the Emi2 ZBR domain that selectively exert each of the dual Emi2‐specific modes of APC/C inhibition, by their mutation in the Emi2 ZBR domain and their transplantation into the Emi1 ZBR domain.
Tumour heterogeneity and the evolution of polyclonal drug resistance
Authors: Burrell Rebecca A. , Swanton Charles
Published: July 2014

Cancer drug resistance is a major problem, with the majority of patients with metastatic disease ultimately developing multidrug resistance and succumbing to their disease. Our understanding of molecular events underpinning treatment failure has been enhanced by new genomic technologies and pre‐clinical studies. Intratumour genetic heterogeneity (ITH) is a prominent contributor to therapeutic failure, and it is becoming increasingly apparent that individual tumours may achieve resistance via multiple routes simultaneously – termed polyclonal resistance. Efforts to target single resistance mechanisms to overcome therapeutic failure may therefore yield only limited success. Clinical studies with sequential analysis of tumour material are needed to enhance our understanding of inter‐clonal functional relationships and tumour evolution during therapy, and to improve drug development strategies in cancer medicine.
Evaluation of the ability of adjuvant tamoxifen‐benefit gene signatures to predict outcome of hormone‐naive estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer patients treated with tamoxifen in the advanced setting
Authors: Sieuwerts Anieta M. , Lyng Maria B. , Meijer-van Gelder Marion E. , de Weerd Vanja , Sweep Fred C.G.J. , Foekens John A. , Span Paul N. , Martens John W.M. , Ditzel Henrik J.
Published: July 2014

To identify molecular markers indicative of response to tamoxifen and easily implemented in the routine setting, we recently reported three gene signatures that could stratify post‐menopausal tamoxifen‐treated, estrogen receptor‐positive (ER+) patients according to outcome in the adjuvant setting. Here, we evaluated the predictive potential of the total of 14 genes included in the 3 gene signatures using 2 hormone‐naïve Dutch ER+ cohorts of a total of 285 recurrent breast cancer patients treated with first‐line tamoxifen.

mRNA levels were measured by reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) and the length of progression‐free survival (PFS) was used as the primary endpoint. A Mann–Whitney U test was used to select for differentially expressed genes between tumors of patients who showed or did not show progressive disease within 6 months after start of tamoxifen treatment. Cox univariate and multivariate regression analysis for PFS were used to further assess their (independent) predictive potential.

Five (BCAR3, BCL2, ESR1, IGF1R, and NCOA1) of the 14 genes analyzed showed significantly higher mRNA levels in tumors of patients who showed no disease progression within 6 months. Only BCAR3, BCL2 and NAT1 were significantly associated with a favorable PFS in multivariate analysis that included the traditional predictive factors: age, dominant relapse site, disease‐free interval, ER and progesterone receptor (PGR), and adjuvant chemotherapy.

This study shows that BCAR3, BCL2 and NAT1 in particular exhibit predictive promise regarding the efficacy of tamoxifen treatment in recurrent disease, in addition to the previously shown favorable outcome in the adjuvant setting.
Infektionen durch Lebensmittel
Authors: Busch Matthias
Published: July 2014

Einleitung

Berichte über schwere Erkrankungen durch Salmonellen, Listerien, EHEC oder Campylobacter tauchen regelmäßig in den Schlagzeilen auf. Tatsächlich haben die Lebensmittelinfektionen und -vergiftungen in den letzten zwanzig Jahren stark zugenommen - nicht nur in Europa, sondern weltweit. Im vorliegenden Artikel erfolgt eine kurze Darstellung zu Infektionsmöglichkeiten mit Lebensmitteln und deren Ursachen. Es werden Hinweise zum Schutz vor Lebensmittelinfektionen aufgezeigt.
Infektionsschutz in der Pflege
Authors: Loczenski Barbara
Published: July 2014

Einleitung

Ein Themenheft, welches sich dem Thema der „übertragbaren Krankheiten“ widmet, muss natürlich auch die Berufsgruppen im Blick haben, die dann mit der Versorgung derselben betroffen sind, vorrangig den Pflegenden. Im Folgenden sind einige Punkte herausgearbeitet, die es zu beachten gilt, um die Verbreitung von Krankheitserregern so gering wie möglich zu halten, und die „Ansteckungsgefahr“ zu minimieren. Inhaltlich müssen Maßnahmen immer an die konkrete Situation angepasst sein - sie können daher hier nur Orientierung geben.
Krankenhausinfektionen
Authors: Martiny Heike , Popp Walter
Published: July 2014

Einleitung

Nosokomiale Infektionen (NI) sind von Risikofaktoren abhängig, die sowohl in Bezug auf den Patienten selber bestehen als auch hinsichtlich weiterer Einflüsse während seiner Behandlung. Aufgrund verschiedener Daten errechnet für Deutschland bei 1,3 Mio NI eine Zahl von 30.000 Toten. NI verursachen Kosten, die 10.000 € pro Patient betragen können. NI stellen in Deutschland sowohl eines der größten gesundheitspolitischen als auch der gesamtgesellschaftlichen Probleme dar.
Influenzaimpfung – für Risikogruppen besonders wichtig
Authors: Wicker Sabine
Published: July 2014

Einleitung

Jahr für Jahr führen Influenzainfektionen zu Krankenhauseinweisungen, Todesfällen und Fehltagen in der Schule und am Arbeitsplatz. Influenza ist jedoch eine impfpräventable Erkrankung. Maßnahmen zur Erhöhung der Impfquoten bei den Risikogruppen und beim medizinischen Personal sollten ein wichtiges gesundheitspolitisches Ziel darstellen.
An Environmental History of Medieval Europe
Authors: Hoffmann Richard
Published: July 2014

How did medieval Europeans use and change their environments, think about the natural world, and try to handle the natural forces affecting their lives? This groundbreaking environmental history examines medieval relationships with the natural world from the perspective of social ecology, viewing human society as a hybrid of the cultural and the natural. Richard Hoffmann's interdisciplinary approach sheds important light on such central topics in medieval history as the decline of Rome, religious doctrine, urbanization and technology, as well as key environmental themes, among them energy use, sustainability, disease and climate change. Revealing the role of natural forces in events previously seen as purely human, the book explores issues including the treatment of animals, the 'tragedy of the commons', agricultural clearances and agrarian economies. By introducing medieval history in the context of social ecology, it brings the natural world into historiography as an agent and object of history itself.
Revising Lehár’sRastelbinderfor the Reich
Authors: Petersen Ulrike
Published: July 2014

Operetta held an ambiguous position within Nazi German entertainment culture: while suitably diverting and escapist, many of the most successful hits had Jewish authors and were thus increasingly avoided by theatre directors. To replenish the Reich’s performable repertory, Goebbels founded the ‘Reichsstelle für Musikbearbeitungen’, whose revisions of classical works including Handel’s oratorios and Mozart’s Da Ponte operas have been widely discussed. This article focuses on one of the institution’s many operetta commissions, Viennese satirist Rudolf Weys’s unfinished 1944 version of Franz Lehár’sDer Rastelbinder(1902), a box office success that featured an itinerant Jewish peddler as the central character. Weys’s revisions as well as his own story show that this kind of Reichsstelle commission could be a lifeline for artists who could not afford to attract attention or leave the Reich.
Evaluating Angular Ion Current Density for Atomically Defined Nanotips
Authors: Urban Radovan , Wolkow Robert A. , Pitters Jason L.
Published: July 2014

In this paper we investigate methods to characterize angular current density from atomically defined gas field ion sources. We show that the ion beam emitted from a single apex atom is described by a two-dimensional Gaussian profile. Owing to the Gaussian shape of the beam and the requirement to collect the majority of the ion current, fixed apertures have inhomogeneous illumination. Therefore, angular current density measurements through a fixed aperture record averaged angular current density. This makes comparison of data difficult as averaged angular current density depends on aperture size. For the same reasons, voltage normalization cannot be performed for fixed aperture measurements except for aperture sizes that are infinitely small. Consistent determination of angular current density and voltage normalization, however, can be achieved if the beam diameter as well as total ion current are known. In cases where beam profile cannot be directly imaged with a field ion microscope, the beam profile could be extracted from measurements taken at multiple acceleration voltages and/or with multiple aperture sizes.
Spanish Adaptation of the Illinois Sexual Harassment Myth Acceptance
Authors: Expósito Francisca , Herrera Antonio , Valor-Segura Inmaculada , Herrera M. Carmen , Lozano Luis M.
Published: July 2014

Sexual harassment is among the most serious forms of gender violence, and what all violent acts have in common are the many myths associated with them. Three studies were conducted to adapt a Spanish version of the Illinois Sexual Harassment Myth Acceptance (ISHMA) scale, which assesses myths about sexual harassment. The first study aimed to, for the first time, present psychometric data on the Spanish version of the ISHMA. The participants were 339 college students. After adapting the items and measuring their content validity, we examined the test’s dimensional structure, statistically analyzed the items, and determined the instrument’s reliability (α = .91 for the total scale and between .77 and .84 for the different dimensions). Study 2 involved 326 adult participants from the general population and its objective was to evaluate the scale’s dimensional structure through confirmatory factor analysis (χ2143 = 244.860, p < .001; GFI = .952; CFI = .958; RMSEA = .034 [.026 – .041]). The third study was conducted in order to measure convergent validity in both students and adults from the general population. Differences by gender were found in all dimensions being the females’ means higher than males (Cohen´s d between .38 and .62). Our findings suggest the Spanish version of the ISHMA is a useful instrument to study myths about sexual harassment.
Grammatical Comprehension in Spanish-Speaking Children with Specific Language Impairment (SLI)
Authors: Muñoz Juana , Carballo Gloria , Fresneda M. Dolores , Mendoza Elvira
Published: July 2014

The Grammatical Structures Comprehension Test (CEG) was used to analyze grammatical comprehension problems in native Spanish-speaking children with Specific Language Impairment (SLI). The test is divided into 20 blocks containing the most common grammatical structures in Spanish. Our objective was to establish whether the CEG was sensitive in detecting these problems and whether there were differential patterns in grammatical comprehension between children with SLI (14 participants) and two control groups: a chronological control group (CC) with 14 participants and a linguistic control group (LC) also with 14 participants. We found significant differences between the SLI group and the chronological control participants (Box’s M = 63.080,F= 1, 159,p= .238), with a correct classification rate of 85.7 % in the discriminant function analysis. These differences did not occur in all the blocks, in which we identified a range of different performance patterns that varied according to the structures being analyzed. This work helps to clarify certain questions about grammatical comprehension in children with SLI and contributes to the debate on delay vs. “delay within the delay”.
Measuring Affect at Work Based on the Valence and Arousal Circumplex Model
Authors: Madrid Hector P. , Patterson Malcolm G.
Published: July 2014

Affective states have become a central topic of interest in research on organizational behavior. Recently, scholars have been paying more attention to the proposals of the Circumplex Model (Russell, 1980) in order to gain a finer grained understanding of job-related affect. However, the limited availability of well-validated measures to test this model in work settings, particularly in non English-speaking populations, is still a major drawback. Using three samples of English-speaking and Spanish-speaking workers, this article offers the cross-validation of the Multi-Affect Indicator (Warr, 2007) between the original English version and its corresponding translation into Spanish. Multi-group Structural Equation Modeling supported the instrument’s structure and its invariance between the two languages (English: χ2= 65.56,df= 48,p= .05; RMSEA = .06; CFI = .97; Spanish: χ2= 68.68,df= 48,p= .03; RMSEA = .05; CFI = .97). Furthermore, Circular Stochastic Modeling supported the theoretically proposed circumplex representation (χ2= 139.85,df= 51,p< .01; χ2/df= 2.74, RMSEA = .06). Thus, this study offers an instrument that provides a more accurate approximation to affect at work, both in English and in another of the major language communities in the world, the Spanish-speaking population.