bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrops, fetal pleural effusions and chylothorax in three patients with CBL mutations
Authors: Bülow Luzie , Lissewski Christina , Bressel Rainer , Rauch Anita , Stark Zornitza , Zenker Martin , Bartsch Oliver
Published: October 2014

Fetal hydrops, fetal pleural effusions, hydrothorax, and chylothorax, may be associated with various genetic disorders, in particular with the Noonan, cardio‐facio‐cutaneous and Costello syndromes. These syndromes, collectively called RASopathies, are caused by mutations in the RAS/MAPK pathway, which is known to play a major role in lymphangiogenesis. Recently, germline mutations in the Casitas B‐cell lymphoma (CBL) gene were reported in 25 patients and of these, 20 had juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). The disorder was named “CBL syndrome” or “Noonan syndrome‐like disorder with or without juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia” (NSLL). To date, prenatal abnormalities have not been reported and it is still debated whether the CBL syndrome falls into the category of a RASopathy, or represents a different entity. Here we report on three unrelated patients with CBL mutations manifesting with hydrops fetalis, fetal pleural effusions and/or congenital hydro‐/chylothorax. Our findings further connect the CBL syndrome with the RASopathies. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association Between Popliteal Artery Wall Thickness and Knee Structure in Adults Without Clinical Disease of the Knee: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Novera Diaz , Wluka Anita E. , Fairley Jessica , Giles Graham G. , O'Sullivan Richard , Cicuttini Flavia M.
Published: October 2014

Objective

There is evidence of a vascular contribution to the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). The aim of this study was to examine the association between popliteal artery wall thickness, which was previously shown to be associated with the risk of OA, and structural changes in the knee in an asymptomatic cohort.

Methods

A total of 297 adults with no significant knee pain, injury, or history of clinical knee disease were recruited. Participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the knee at baseline and 2 years later. Popliteal artery wall thickness, knee cartilage volume, and bone marrow lesions (BMLs) were assessed.

Results

Of 278 participants with valid popliteal artery wall thickness measurements, 254 (91.4%) completed the 2‐year followup assessment. After adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and tibial bone area, increased popliteal artery wall thickness was found to be associated with a reduced medial tibial cartilage volume (B = −6.7 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) −12.9, −0.6], P = 0.03) and an increased rate of medial tibial cartilage volume loss (B = 0.06 [95% CI 0.01, 0.12], P = 0.03). There was a trend toward worsening of medial tibiofemoral BMLs in relation to increased popliteal artery wall thickness (odds ratio 1.07 [95% CI 0.99, 1.15]; P = 0.07). No significant associations with the lateral tibiofemoral compartment were observed.

Conclusion

Increased popliteal artery wall thickness was associated with adverse changes in knee structure, as evidenced by reduced medial tibial cartilage volume, increased rate of cartilage volume loss, and a trend toward worsening of BMLs over 2 years. These findings suggest an association between vascular pathology and early structural changes in the knee, which supports the hypothesis that vascular health may play a role in the development of knee OA.
Outcomes of a rotational dissection system in gross anatomy
Authors: Marshak David W. , Oakes Joanne , Hsieh Pei‐Hsuan , Chuang Alice Z. , Cleary Leonard J.
Published: October 2014

At the University of Texas Houston Medical School, a rotational dissection system was introduced to improve coordination between the Gross Anatomy and the Introduction to Clinical Medicine (ICM) courses. Six students were assigned to each cadaver and divided into two teams. For each laboratory, one team was assigned to dissect and the other to attend ICM or study independently. For the next laboratory, the assignments were reversed. At the start of the session, the team that had dissected previously spent 30 minutes teaching the other team. In 2012, the students were given three traditional practical examinations with 50 questions drawn equally from each laboratory. Students also completed three mid‐course evaluations. There were no significant differences in overall performance between the two teams. Nevertheless, we wanted to determine how well individual students identified structures they had dissected compared with those they had not. For dissected structures, the mean percent correct was 80.0 ± 13.0 (mean ± standard deviation), and for undissected structures, it was 78.3 ± 14.1. The difference was small, but statistically significant (P = 0.0007). Although this result validated the concerns expressed by some students, it did not appear that a change in the system was justified. Students were generally enthusiastic about the opportunity to learn clinical skills in the first semester of medical school, and 91–96% of the students agreed that learning anatomy at the same time helped them understand the physical examination exercises in ICM. Anat Sci Educ 8: 438–444. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.
Comparison of in vivo and in vitro digestion on polyphenol composition in lingonberries: Potential impact on colonic health
Authors: Brown Emma M. , Nitecki Sonja , Pereira‐Caro Gema , McDougall Gordon J. , Stewart Derek , Rowland Ian , Crozier Alan , Gill Chris I.R.
Published: October 2014

The composition of polyphenols in ileal fluid samples obtained from an ileostomy subject after lingonberry intake was compared with lingonberry extracts obtained after simulated in vitro digestion (IVDL) and subsequent faecal fermentation (IVFL). HPLC‐PDA‐MS/MS analysis confirmed similar patterns of lingonberry (poly)phenolic metabolism after the in vivo and in vitro digestion, with reduced recovery of anthocyanins and a similar pattern of recovery for proanthocyanidins observed for both methods of digestion. On the other hand, the IVFL sample contained none of the original (poly)phenolic components but was enriched in simple aromatic components. Digested and fermented extracts exhibited significant (P < 0.05) anti‐genotoxic (Comet assay), anti‐mutagenic (Mutation Frequency assay), and anti‐invasive (Matrigel Invasion assay) effects in human cell culture models of colorectal cancer at physiologically‐relevant doses (0–50 μg/mL gallic acid equivalents). The ileal fluid induced significant anti‐genotoxic activity (P < 0.05), but at a higher concentration (200 μg/mL gallic acid equivalents) than the IVDL. Despite extensive structural modification following digestion and fermentation, lingonberry extracts retained their bioactivity in vitro. This reinforces the need for studies to consider the impact of digestion when investigating bioactivity of dietary phytochemicals. © 2014 BioFactors, 40(6):611–623, 2014
Single‐run HPLC/ESI‐LITMS profiling of ginsenosides in plant extracts and ginseng based products
Authors: Stavrianidi Andrey , Rodin Igor , Braun Arkady , Stekolshchikova Elena , Shpigun Oleg
Published: October 2014

A rapid single‐run analytical approach suitable to achieve a comprehensive characterization of ginsenosides – the main bioactive compounds present in plant materials from Panax species and ginseng‐based products – was developed. The method is based on high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray positive ionization linear ion trap mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI‐LITMS). The main ions in the ESI‐LITMS spectra were attributed to molecular adducts with sodium and potassium and fragments corresponding to cleavage of the glycosidic bonds. The simplicity of the approach allows laborious sample preparation and sophisticated spectral information‐dependent acquisition to be avoided, and provides an opportunity for rapid screening. The method may replace existing HPLC‐DAD profiling approaches. The results of this study indicate that HPLC/ESI‐LITMS is applicable for quality control purposes on processed products and allows the rapid and direct identification of ginsenosides in crude plant extracts. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tobacco smoking, polymorphisms in carcinogen metabolism enzyme genes, and risk of localized and advanced prostate cancer: results from the California Collaborative Prostate Cancer Study
Authors: Shahabi Ahva , Corral Román , Catsburg Chelsea , Joshi Amit D. , Kim Andre , Lewinger Juan Pablo , Koo Jocelyn , John Esther M. , Ingles Sue A. , Stern Mariana C.
Published: October 2014

The relationship between tobacco smoking and prostate cancer (PCa) remains inconclusive. This study examined the association between tobacco smoking and PCa risk taking into account polymorphisms in carcinogen metabolism enzyme genes as possible effect modifiers (9 polymorphisms and 1 predicted phenotype from metabolism enzyme genes). The study included cases (n = 761 localized; n = 1199 advanced) and controls (n = 1139) from the multiethnic California Collaborative Case–Control Study of Prostate Cancer. Multivariable conditional logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association between tobacco smoking variables and risk of localized and advanced PCa risk. Being a former smoker, regardless of time of quit smoking, was associated with an increased risk of localized PCa (odds ratio [OR] = 1.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.0–1.6). Among non‐Hispanic Whites, ever smoking was associated with an increased risk of localized PCa (OR = 1.5; 95% CI = 1.1–2.1), whereas current smoking was associated with risk of advanced PCa (OR = 1.4; 95% CI = 1.0–1.9). However, no associations were observed between smoking intensity, duration or pack‐year variables, and advanced PCa. No statistically significant trends were seen among Hispanics or African‐Americans. The relationship between smoking status and PCa risk was modified by the CYP1A2 rs7662551 polymorphism (P‐interaction = 0.008). In conclusion, tobacco smoking was associated with risk of PCa, primarily localized disease among non‐Hispanic Whites. This association was modified by a genetic variant in CYP1A2, thus supporting a role for tobacco carcinogens in PCa risk.
Inhibition of EGFR or IGF‐1R signaling enhances radiation response in head and neck cancer models but concurrent inhibition has no added benefit
Authors: Raju Uma , Molkentine David P. , Valdecanas David R. , Deorukhkar Amit , Mason Kathryn A. , Buchholz Thomas A. , Meyn Raymond E. , Ang Kie‐Kian , Skinner Heath
Published: October 2014

Interaction between the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and the insulin‐like growth factor receptor (IGF‐1R) has been well established in many cancer types. We investigated the effects of cetuximab (EGFR antibody) and IMC‐A12 (IGF‐1R antibody) on the response of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) to radiation therapy (RT). The effects of cetuximab and IMC‐A12 on cell viability and radiosensitivity were determined by clonogenic cell survival assay. Formation of nuclear γ‐H2AX and 53BP1 foci was monitored by immunofluorescence. Alterations in target signaling were analyzed by Western blots. In vivo tumor growth delay assay was performed to determine the efficacy of triple therapy with IMC‐A12, cetuximab, and RT. In vitro data showed that cetuximab differentially affected the survival and the radiosensitivity of HNSCC cells. Cetuximab suppressed DNA repair that was evident by the prolonged presence of nuclear γ‐H2AX and 53BP1 foci. IMC‐A12 did not have any effect on the cell survival. However, it increased the radiosensitivity of one of the cell lines. EGFR inhibition increased IGF‐1R expression levels and also the association between EGFR and IGF‐1R. Addition of IMC‐A12 to cetuximab did not increase the radiosensitivity of these cells. Tumor xenografts exhibited enhanced response to RT in the presence of either cetuximab or IMC‐A12. Concurrent treatment regimen failed to further enhance the tumor response to cetuximab and/or RT. Taken together our data suggest that concomitant inhibition of both EGFR and IGF‐1R pathways did not yield additional therapeutic benefit in overcoming resistance to RT.
Platinum Complexes Containing Pyramidalized Germanium and Tin Dihalide Ligands Bound through σ,σ ME Multiple Bonds
Authors: Hupp Florian , Ma Mengtao , Kroll Franziska , Jimenez‐Halla J. Oscar C. , Dewhurst Rian D. , Radacki Krzysztof , Stasch Andreas , Jones Cameron , Braunschweig Holger
Published: October 2014

We present the isolation of the first mononuclear dihalogermylene, and mono‐ and dinuclear stannylene complexes of transition metals. These exhibit exceptionally pyramidalized Group 14 centers. Additionally, removal of the halide substituents from the Ge/Sn atom was successfully performed in two ways, halide abstraction and reduction, leading to a variety of unusual structural motifs.
Coordination and Activation of AlH and GaH Bonds
Authors: Abdalla Joseph A. B. , Riddlestone Ian M. , Turner Joshua , Kaufman Paul A. , Tirfoin Remi , Phillips Nicholas , Aldridge Simon
Published: October 2014

The modes of interaction of donor‐stabilized Group 13 hydrides (E=Al, Ga) were investigated towards 14‐ and 16‐electron transition‐metal fragments. More electron‐rich N‐heterocyclic carbene‐stabilized alanes/gallanes of the type NHC⋅EH3 (E=Al or Ga) exclusively generate κ2 complexes of the type [M(CO)4(κ2‐H3E⋅NHC)] with [M(CO)4(COD)] (M=Cr, Mo), including the first κ2 σ‐gallane complexes. β‐Diketiminato (′nacnac′)‐stabilized systems, {HC(MeCNDipp)2}EH2, show more diverse reactivity towards Group 6 carbonyl reagents. For {HC(MeCNDipp)2}AlH2, both κ1 and κ2 complexes were isolated, while [Cr(CO)4(κ2‐H2Ga{(NDippCMe)2CH})] is the only simple κ2 adduct of the nacnac‐stabilized gallane which can be trapped, albeit as a co‐crystallite with the (dehydrogenated) gallylene system [Cr(CO)5(Ga{(NDippCMe)2CH})]. Reaction of [Co2(CO)8] with {HC(MeCDippN)2}AlH2 generates [(OC)3Co(μ‐H)2Al{(NdippCme)2CH}][Co(CO)4] (12), which while retaining direct AlH interactions, features a hitherto unprecedented degree of bond activation in a σ‐alane complex.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Direct Carboxylation of Olefins with CO2: One‐Pot Synthesis of α,β‐Unsaturated Carboxylic Acid Salts
Authors: Huguet Núria , Jevtovikj Ivana , Gordillo Alvaro , Lejkowski Michael L. , Lindner Ronald , Bru Miriam , Khalimon Andrey Y. , Rominger Frank , Schunk Stephan A. , Hofmann Peter , Limbach Michael
Published: October 2014

The nickel‐catalyzed direct carboxylation of alkenes with the cheap and abundantly available C1 building block carbon dioxide (CO2) in the presence of a base has been achieved. The one‐pot reaction allows for the direct and selective synthesis of a wide range of α,β‐unsaturated carboxylates (TON>100, TOF up to 6 h−1, TON=turnover number, TOF=turnover frequency). Thus, it is possible, in one step, to synthesize sodium acrylate from ethylene, CO2, and a sodium salt. Acrylates are industrially important products, the synthesis of which has hitherto required multiple steps.
Conversion of CuS thin films to structured nanosheet CuyS (1 < y ≦ 2) by vacuum annealing
Authors: Shi J. B. , Wu P. F. , Chen Y. C. , Chang Y. C. , Tsai M. Z. , Cheng F. C. , Kao C. T. , Lee H. W. , Chen M. Y. , Huang Y. J. , Huang R. Y. , Lin S. K.
Published: October 2014

In this study, large‐area and uniform thickness novel nano‐sheet structured CuS thin films on ITO glass have been prepared by the one‐step electrodeposition method from a dimethyl sulfoxide solution. Thin films of completely preserved nano‐sheet like morphology of CuyS (y = 1.75, 1.8, 1.95, and 2.0) are grown by vacuum annealing CuS thin films at 500 °C for different lengths of time. The 500 °C sample heated for 10 hours was nearly converted to single phase of Cu2S with y ∼ 2. The optical direct band gaps of nano‐sheet CuyS thin films annealed at 500 °C of 2, 6, and 10 hours in vacuum were found to be 1.94, 1.68, and 1.44 eV, respectively.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone‐producing thymic neuroendocrine carcinoma with oncocytic features: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Falk Nadja K. , Weissferdt Annikka , Habra Mouhammed A. , Roy‐Chowdhuri Sinchita
Published: October 2014

Thymic neuroendocrine carcinomas are the most common mediastinal neuroendocrine tumor. These malignancies are not often diagnosed by fine‐needle aspiration (FNA), as they are more commonly diagnosed by biopsy or excision. We describe a case of a FNA of a paratracheal mass from a 38‐year‐old man who presented with Cushing syndrome. A low‐grade neuroendocrine carcinoma with oncocytic features was diagnosed, which was later confirmed by excision of the thymus, anterior mediastinal and paratracheal soft tissue, and lymph nodes. Oncocytic features in these tumors are a rare finding and bring metastatic medullary thyroid carcinomas as well as other metastases into the differential diagnosis. The prognosis of neuroendocrine carcinomas in this location is worse than neuroendocrine carcinomas in other areas, and close follow‐up is recommended. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:329–334. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Challenges in analysis and interpretation of microsatellite data for population genetic studies
Authors: Putman Alexander I. , Carbone Ignazio
Published: October 2014

Advancing technologies have facilitated the ever‐widening application of genetic markers such as microsatellites into new systems and research questions in biology. In light of the data and experience accumulated from several years of using microsatellites, we present here a literature review that synthesizes the limitations of microsatellites in population genetic studies. With a focus on population structure, we review the widely used fixation (FST) statistics and Bayesian clustering algorithms and find that the former can be confusing and problematic for microsatellites and that the latter may be confounded by complex population models and lack power in certain cases. Clustering, multivariate analyses, and diversity‐based statistics are increasingly being applied to infer population structure, but in some instances these methods lack formalization with microsatellites. Migration‐specific methods perform well only under narrow constraints. We also examine the use of microsatellites for inferring effective population size, changes in population size, and deeper demographic history, and find that these methods are untested and/or highly context‐dependent. Overall, each method possesses important weaknesses for use with microsatellites, and there are significant constraints on inferences commonly made using microsatellite markers in the areas of population structure, admixture, and effective population size. To ameliorate and better understand these constraints, researchers are encouraged to analyze simulated datasets both prior to and following data collection and analysis, the latter of which is formalized within the approximate Bayesian computation framework. We also examine trends in the literature and show that microsatellites continue to be widely used, especially in non‐human subject areas. This review assists with study design and molecular marker selection, facilitates sound interpretation of microsatellite data while fostering respect for their practical limitations, and identifies lessons that could be applied toward emerging markers and high‐throughput technologies in population genetics.
Fertilization impact on fatty acid profile of chicory and chicon plants (Cichorium intybus L.)
Authors: Sinkovič Lovro , Demšar Lea , Žnidarčič Dragan , Vidrih Rajko
Published: October 2014

The fatty‐acid contents of five chicory cultivars commonly produced in Slovenia (‘Treviso’, ‘Verona’, ‘Castelfranco’, and autochthonous ‘Anivip’ and ‘Monivip’) were investigated. Mineral and organic fertilisers were used to produce the leaf mass for analysis. Hydroponic forcing of developed chicory roots was performed in three nutrient solutions with nitrogen, phosphorus and/or potassium at three different concentrations. The fatty‐acid analysis with gas chromatography (GC) revealed the contents of the C 16:0, C 18:0, C 18:1, C 18:2, C 18:3 and C 20:0 fatty acids. The total fatty‐acid content of the chicory produced by conventional and organic practices ranged from 170 to 500 mg/100 g fresh weight, and of the hydroponically forced chicons, from 60 to 160 mg/100 g fresh weight. The highest fatty‐acid content for both the chicory and chicons was α‐linolenic acid (≤63%), followed by linoleic (≤45%) and palmitic (≤24%) acids. The n‐6/n‐3 ratio was <1.0 for most of the samples.

Practical applications: The study contributes to the knowledge of the impact of fertilisers on fatty acids profiles in chicory and chicon plants which has not been published in scientific literature so far. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the fatty‐acid composition of five chicory cultivars (red, red‐spotted, green) produced as cultivated (organically, conventionally) chicory leaves/ heads and as forced chicons. The present analysis demonstrates that the majority of the fatty acids in chicory and chicon consist of the PUFAs, among which the main ones are α‐linolenic acid (C 18:3, n‐3) and linoleic acid (C 18:2, n‐6). The fertilizers significantly impact fatty acid formation. The chicory and chicon both have an n‐6/n‐3 ratio < 1 and they thus represent a food that follows the current nutritional recommendations.

Content of α‐linolenic and linoleic fatty acids (wt. %/total fatty acids) of forced and unforced chicory
Differential expression of fatty acid desaturases in Mari and Shengeh olive cultivars during fruit development and ripening
Authors: Parvini Farshid , Zeinanloo Ali Asghar , Ebrahimie Esmaeil , Tahmasebi‐Enferadi Sattar , Hosseini‐Mazinani Mehdi
Published: October 2014

To understand the molecular basis of the higher oleic/linoleic acid content in Mari and Koroneiki with respect to Shengeh and Arbequina olive cultivars, we have focused on analysis of fatty acids, as well as expression levels of OeSAD and three oleate desaturase genes during fruit development and ripening. The mesocarp oil content was determined using a Minispec NMR. Moreover, oleic and linoleic acid contents were recorded by GC. Quantitative real time PCR was used for gene expression analysis. Mari and Shengeh exhibited the highest and lowest levels of OeSAD gene expression, respectively, which corresponded fully to a change in the pattern of oleic acid and oil accumulation throughout mesocarp development. Regarding oleate desaturases, a decreasing pattern of OeFAD2‐1 and OeFAD6 transcripts accompanied by an increasing trend of OeFAD2‐2 expression during mesocarp development showed that, coinciding with oil accumulation, linoleic acid content is mainly determined by the OeFAD2‐2 gene. In conclusion, the higher oleic/linoleic ratio in Mari and Koroneiki cultivars compared to Shengeh and Arbequina was due to much higher expression levels of OeSAD and lower expression levels of OeFAD2‐2.

Practical applications: Increasing the oleic to linoleic acid ratio has become one of the major goals for researchers in the area of plant lipid modification. To this end, understanding the mechanisms by which fatty acid composition is determined during olive fruit development and ripening would represent an important step toward the ultimate goal of regulating these processes in a directed and predictable manner.

Relative expression of OeSAD gene (B) during mesocarp development and ripening of the high (Mari and Koroneiki) and low (Shengeh and Arbequina) oleic acid olive cultivars. The beginning of fruit ripening, corresponding to the appearance of pink‐purple color, is marked by an arrow. Different letterings show that the results significantly different at P < 0.05. The bars represent the SD of the mean (DAFB, days after full bloom).
Use of Longitudinal Regression in Quality Control
Authors: Lu Ying , Yen Wendy M.
Published: October 2014

This article explores the use of longitudinal regression as a tool for identifying scoring inaccuracies. Student progression patterns, as evaluated through longitudinal regressions, typically are more stable from year to year than are scale score distributions and statistics, which require representative samples to conduct credibility checks. Historical data from a large‐scale K‐12 testing program were used to evaluate the usefulness of several proposed longitudinal procedures. Results showed that the use of longitudinal regression in quality control was effective in detecting scoring errors, especially when the scoring errors were non‐negligible.
The max–min fair approach on dynamic bandwidth allocation for XG‐PONs
Authors: Gravalos I. , Yiannopoulos K. , Papadimitriou G. , Varvarigos E. A.
Published: October 2014

XG‐PON is the latest ITU‐T PON standard for passive optical networks (PONs), which provide broadband access to the end user at line rates of up to 10 Gb/s. The most important issue that is not strictly defined in the standard and is left to vendors to implement is the allocation of the shared upstream bandwidth. An efficient allocation mechanism must be applied on the upstream direction in order to assure acceptable packet latency and fairness among multiple subscribers. Within this context, we propose an XG‐PON‐oriented dynamic bandwidth allocation algorithm that implements a max–min fair scheme to distribute the available upstream capacity to all the connected optical network units (ONUs) at the PON. Because frequent bandwidth granting and queue occupancy reporting account for low latency, our algorithm adopts a method in which every ONU is granted a portion of bandwidth at every downstream frame. The bandwidth grant is either calculated directly from the latest occupancy report or inferred from previous reports by means of traffic prediction. Our simulation results show that the proposed algorithm achieves fair bandwidth distribution among the ONUs along with low packet latency and latency jitter, irrespectively of the ONUs's spatial separation from the optical line terminal. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kernel canonical correlation analysis for robust cooperative spectrum sensing in cognitive radio networks
Authors: Manco‐Vásquez J. , Vaerenbergh S. Van , Vía J. , Santamaría I.
Published: October 2014

Spectrum sensing is a key operation in cognitive radio (CR) systems, where secondary users (SUs) are able to exploit spectrum opportunities by first detecting the presence of primary users. In a CR network composed of several SUs, the detection accuracy can be much improved by cooperative spectrum sensing strategies, which exploit the spatial diversity among SUs. However, cooperative detection strategies, which are typically based on energy sensing, do not perform satisfactorily under impairments such as non‐Gaussian noise or interferences. In this paper, we propose a scheme based on kernel canonical correlation analysis (KCCA), which is able to operate in non‐ideal scenarios and in a totally blind fashion. This technique is performed at the fusion centre (FC) by exploiting the non‐linear correlation among the received signals of each SU. In this manner, statistical tests are extracted, allowing the SUs to make decisions either autonomously at each SU or cooperatively at the FC. The performance of the KCCA‐based detector is evaluated by means of simulations and over‐the‐air experiments using a CR testbed composed of several Universal Software Radio Peripheral nodes. Both the simulations and the measurements show that the KCCA‐based detector is able to obtain a significant gain over a conventional energy detector, whose sensing performance is severely degraded by the presence of external interferers. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulating gas–liquid multiphase flow using meshless Lagrangian method
Authors: Fu L. , Jin Y. C.
Published: October 2014

A multiphase flow model has been established based on a moving particle semi‐implicit method. A surface tension model is introduced to the particle method to improve the numerical accuracy and stability. Several computational techniques are employed to simplify the numerical procedure and further improve the accuracy. A particle fraction multiphase flow model is developed and verified by a two‐phase Poiseuille flow. The multiphase surface tension model is discussed in detail, and an ethanol drop case is introduced to verify the surface tension model. A simple dam break is simulated to demonstrate the improvements with various modifications in particle method along with a new boundary condition. Finally, we simulate several bubble rising cases to show the capacity of this new model in simulating gas–liquid multiphase flow with large density ratio difference between phases. The comparisons among numerical results of mesh‐based model, experimental data, and the present model, indicate that the new multiphase particle method is acceptable in gas–liquid multiphase fluids simulation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MBD4 Interacts With and Recruits USP7 to Heterochromatic Foci
Authors: Meng Huan , Harrison David J. , Meehan Richard R.
Published: October 2014

MBD4 is the only methyl‐CpG binding protein that possesses a C‐terminal glycosylase domain. It has been associated with a number of nuclear pathways including DNA repair, DNA damage response, the initiation of apoptosis, transcriptional repression, and DNA demethylation. However, the precise contribution of MBD4 to these processes in development and relevant diseases remains elusive. We identified UHRF1 and USP7 as two new interaction partners for MBD4. Both UHRF1, a E3 ubiquitin ligase, and USP7, a de‐ubiquinating enzyme, regulate the stability of the DNA maintenance methyltransferase, Dnmt1. The ability of MBD4 to directly interact with and recruit USP7 to chromocenters implicates it as an additional factor that can potentially regulate Dnmt1 activity during cell proliferation. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 476–485, 2015. © 2014 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A New Role for 5‐methoxytryptophol On Bone Cells Function in Vitro
Authors: Satué María , Ramis Joana Maria , del Mar Arriero Maria , Monjo Marta
Published: October 2014

The present study investigates the direct action of 5‐methoxytryptophol (5‐MTX) in both MC3T3‐E1 and RAW264.7 cells and compares it with melatonin (MEL), another 5‐methoxyindol known to play a significant role on bone metabolism. We first screened increasing doses of both 5‐MTX and MEL to determine their effect on metabolic activity and viability of preosteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cells. The optimal dose was used to determine its effect on differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells and preosteoclastic RAW264.7 cells. Finally, we investigated the mechanism of action by adding the melatonin receptor antagonist luzindole (LUZ) and detecting the immunostaining of phospho‐ERK. In MC3T3‐E1 cells, most of the 5‐MTX doses reduced slightly the metabolic activity of osteoblasts compared with the control, while MEL only decreased it for the highest dose (2.5 mM). As regards to cytotoxicity, low doses (0.001–0.1 mM) of both indoles showed a protective effect on osteoblasts, while the highest dose of MEL showed a higher cytotoxicity than the 5‐MTX one. After 14 days of cell culture, Rankl mRNA levels were decreased, especially for 5‐MTX. 5‐MTX also induced a higher osteocalcin secretion and mineralization capacity than MEL. In RAW264.7 cells, 5‐MTX decreased the number of osteoclast formed and its activity whereas MEL did not affect significantly the number of multinucleated TRAP‐positive cells formed and showed a lower activity. Finally, MEL and 5‐MTX promoted activation of the ERK1/2 pathway through the phosphorylation of ERK, while LUZ addition suppressed this effect. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates a new role of 5‐MTX inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and promoting osteoblast differentiation. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 551–558, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Feasibility of microdialysis for determination of protein binding and target site pharmacokinetics of colistin in vivo
Authors: Matzneller Peter , Gobin Patrice , Lackner Edith , Zeitlinger Markus
Published: October 2014

Tissue pharmacokinetics and plasma protein binding of colistin have not been described in humans in vivo. Colistin concentrations in plasma, muscle, and subcutis of healthy volunteers were measured by microdialysis after a single dose of 2.5 million IU of colistin methanesulfonate. In vitro microdialysis experiments and an in vivo pilot study were performed prior to the in vivo main study. Concentration‐time profiles of total colistin in plasma were comparable with previously described values. The unbound fraction of colistin in plasma (fu) ranged from 2.8% to 14.1%. Low plasma fu correlated with low unbound colistin concentrations in muscle and subcutis. In vitro, mean relative recovery of microdialysis probes was higher in the reverse dialysis setting compared to the forward dialysis mode (71 ± 9% vs. 45 ± 14%, respectively); mean overall recovery in the main study in vivo was 49 ± 5%. Present data suggest that colistin is extensively protein bound in plasma and poorly distributed into soft tissue. However, differences in relative recovery between forward and reverse dialysis in vitro indicate that results might have been influenced by adhesion of colistin to microdialysis equipment. Microdialysis should be considered as a semiquantitative method for the estimation of unbound colistin levels in soft tissue.
Frequency of Betapapillomavirus infections among HIV infected and uninfected Black Zimbabweans with cutaneous lesions
Authors: Murahwa Alltalents T. , Muchemwa Faith C. , Duri Kerina , Kanyera Russell B. , Tshabalala Mqondisi , Manhanzva Monalisa T. , Mapingure Munyaradzi P. , Stray‐Pedersen Babill
Published: October 2014

Human papillomavirus (HPV) types from the Betapapillomavirus (β‐HPV) genus are plentiful in non‐melanoma skin cancers and warts among Caucasians, but there is paucity of information among black Africans. To determine the frequency of β‐HPV genotypes in cutaneous infections among Black Zimbabweans, a cross‐sectional study was carried out in which blood samples and skin biopsies were collected from patients infected and uninfected with HIV attending a referral hospital. We included 144 participants (72 infected and 72 uninfected with HIV) with clinically apparent cutaneous warts (n = 34), suspected non‐melanoma skin cancers (n = 98) and Kaposi sarcoma (KS) (n = 18). The skin biopsies were analyzed for HPV DNA presence and type. β‐HPV DNA was identified among 70% (101/144) and was significantly higher among patients infected with HIV, 79% (57/72) compared to the HIV uninfected 61% (44/72) [OR = 2.42, 95% CI (1.09–5.47), P = 0.018]. All patients with warts, 89% of those with KS and 58% of those with non‐melanoma skin cancers were HPV DNA positive and β‐HPV type 14 was identified in nearly half of the study participants 49.3% (71/144). Single HPV infections were observed in 33.7% (34/101) of the participants that were HPV DNA positive, 66.3% (67/101) had multiple HPV types. There was no significant difference between patients infected and uninfected with HIV in terms of multiple HPV infections. The distribution of different HPV types did not reveal any association with age and gender but there was an association between HPV 14 and HIV immune status. β‐HPVs are not uncommon among the Black Zimbabweans with skin lesions. J. Med. Virol. 87:478–484, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A method to describe the pharyngeal airway
Authors: Woodson B. Tucker
Published: October 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe and to assess reproducibility of a method to model the lumen of the pharyngeal airway using anatomic structures.

Study Design

Single‐center, institutional review board‐approved retrospective case series.

Methods

Multiple structural landmarks (hard palate, palatal aponeurosis, genu, velum, and lateral wall; pharyngeal and vallecular tongue base; and epiglottis) were used as reference points to score the associated airway. These characteristics were then combined to create a luminal model of the pharyngeal airway. Retrospective assessment by two independent observers of 117 sedated endoscopies from a convenience sample (81% male, aged 51.4 years; apnea hypopnea index 38.5 events/hr) was performed.

Results

Scoring of individual landmarks demonstrated a good or better agreement (kappa of 0.42–0.79). Agreement on whether the airway was constricted/obstructed was very high (kappa > 0.77). Based on differences in airway measures at different levels, multiple patterns of luminal shape and narrowing were observed. The upper pharyngeal lumen was classified into different shapes based on findings at different levels of the soft palate (oblique, 52%; intermediate, 23%; vertical, 25%). Similarly, the lower pharynx was classified into three shapes based on the structure of the tongue.

Conclusion

Multiple pharyngeal luminal configurations describing airway phenotypes can be described using landmarks identifiable on endoscopy.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:1233–1238, 2015
Weight and height in children newly diagnosed with cancer
Authors: Brinksma Aeltsje , Roodbol Petrie F. , Sulkers Esther , Hooimeijer H. Louise , Sauer Pieter J.J. , van Sonderen Eric , de Bont Eveline S.J.M. , Tissing Wim J.E.
Published: October 2014

Background

Although weight loss and lack of linear growth occur in children with cancer, growth history is not included in research that aims to determine nutritional status in children newly diagnosed with cancer. Therefore, this study aimed to determine weight loss and lack of linear growth in this patient group.

Procedure

Weight and height were recorded in 95 children (ages 1.5–10 years) at diagnosis and compared with data predicted from growth curves. Age, gender, type of malignancy, extent of disease, and prior weight and height were tested for their potential relation to differences between actual and predicted data.

Results

The incidence of undernutrition, based on z‐scores for weight‐for‐age (WFA), height‐for‐age (HFA), and weight‐for‐height (WFH), was 2%, 4%, and 7%, respectively. Actual z‐scores were lower than predicted z‐scores. Differences between actual and predicted z‐scores of <−0.5 standard deviation score (SDS) in WFA, HFA, or WFH were found in 25%, 23%, and 29% of the children, respectively. Children with advanced cancer had the highest risk of significant weight loss (<−0.5 SDS in WFA) (ORWFA = 3.45, P = 0.012) prior to diagnosis. Differences were unrelated to type of malignancy, age, gender, and weight and height prior to diagnosis.

Conclusions

At diagnosis, approximately 25% of the children showed a significant reduction in z‐scores for weight‐for‐age, height‐for‐age, and weight‐for‐height. This reduction may indicate a deteriorated nutritional status. Therefore, assessment of growth history should be standard of care to ensure appropriate nutritional interventions and should be included in research that aims to evaluate nutritional status in children newly diagnosed with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:269–273. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of high nitrile content polyimides as dielectric films for electrical energy storage
Authors: Wang David H. , Kurish Brian A. , Treufeld Imre , Zhu Lei , Tan Loon‐Seng
Published: October 2014

Three new isomeric diamines containing three, oxy‐linked benzonitriles (3BCN), one of which is asymmetric (meta, para, or m, p), are synthesized in a 3‐step sequence. Polycondensation of these diamines and four common dianhydrides (6FDA, OPDA, BTDA, and PMDA) in N,N‐dimethylacetamide via poly(amic acid) precursors and thermal curing at temperatures up to 300 °C lead to three series of tough, creasable polyimide (PI) films (tensile moduli = 1.63 − 2.86 GPa). Among these PIs, two PMDA‐based PIs possess relatively high crystallinity and two OPDA‐based PIs, low crystallinity, whereas all 6FDA‐ and BTDA‐based PIs, and m,m‐3BCN‐OPDA‐PI are amorphous, readily soluble in common polar aprotic solvents. Thermally stable and having high Tg (216 − 341 °C), these PIs lose 5% weight around 493–503 °C in air and 463–492 °C in nitrogen. Dielectric properties have been evaluated by broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) and electric displacement‐electric‐field (D‐E) loop measurements. D‐E loop results show an increase in high temperature permittivity (at 190 °C/1 kHz) from 2.9 (for parent PI CP2 with no nitrile group) to as high as 4.9 for these PIs, while keeping their dielectric loss relatively low. Thus, an increase in dipole moment density by the presence of three neighboring CN per repeat unit can increase the overall permittivity, which could be further enhanced by sub‐Tg mobility of para‐phenylene linkages (BDS results). Published 2014. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014 J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 422–436
Variations in Permafrost Temperature and Stability of Alpine Meadows in the Source Area of the Datong River, Northeastern Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Li Jing , Sheng Yu , Chen Ji , Wu Jichun , Wang Shengting
Published: October 2014

Zonal alpine meadow is widespread in the source area of the Datong River, northeastern Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, China, and can be divided into typical meadow and swamp meadow, according to variations in the soil moisture content. A total of 56 measurements of the mean annual ground temperature (MAGT) revealed a significant difference in the MAGT of the two vegetation types. The measured MAGT varied from ‐2.8 to 0.46°C in the swamp meadow, and from ‐0.6 to 2.5°C in the typical meadow. Measurements of 0°C were found at approximately 3710 m asl and 3660 m asl in the typical meadow and swamp meadow, respectively. Using the measured MAGT and calculated topo‐climatic parameters as dependent and independent variables, two statistical models of MAGT were constructed for each vegetation type. The calculated results were classified into different zones and types to determine the permafrost stability in different vegetated areas. Semi‐stable permafrost (‐3.0°C <MAGT ≤ ‐1.5°C) and transitory permafrost (‐1.5°C <MAGT ≤ ‐0.5°C) were the two predominant permafrost types in the swamp meadow, whereas unstable permafrost (‐0.5°C 0.5°C) were the two main types in the typical meadow. The differences in permafrost temperatures and stability between the two vegetation types can be explained by the local environmental characteristics, including vegetation cover and soil water content. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of HMX‐Based Nanocomposites
Authors: Patel Rajen B. , Stepanov Victor , Swaszek Sean , Surapaneni Ashok , Qiu Hongwei
Published: October 2014

Advanced munition systems require explosives which are more insensitive, powerful, and reactive. For this reason, nano‐crystalline explosives present an attractive alternative to conventional energetics. In this study, formulations consisting of 95 % octahydro‐1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetrazocine (HMX) and 5 % polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) were prepared with mean crystal sizes ranging from 300 nm to 2 μm. The process to create these materials used a combination of mechanical particle size reduction and spray drying, which has the advantages of direct control of crystal size and morphology as well as the elimination of ripening of crystals (which occurs during slurry coating of nanomaterials). The basic physical characteristics of these formulations were determined using a variety of techniques, including scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. Compressive stress‐strain tests on pressed pellets revealed that the mechanical properties of the compositions improved with decreasing crystal size, consistent with Hall‐Petch mechanics. The 300 nm HMX/PVOH composition demonstrated a 99 % and 129 % greater strength and stiffness, respectively, than the composition with 2 μm HMX. The formulations were subjected to the Small Scale Gap Test, revealing a significant reduction in shock sensitivity with decreasing crystal size. The formulation containing 300 nm HMX registered a shock initiation pressure 1.6 GPa above that of the formulation with 2 μm HMX, a 44 % improvement in sensitivity. These results serve to highlight the relevance of structure‐property relationships in explosive compositions, and particularly elucidate the substantial benefits of reducing the high explosive crystal size to nano‐scale dimensions.
Una mirada a las empresas de los estudiantes y egresados: el caso de la Universidad EAN
Authors: Parra Bernal León Darío , Argote Cusi Milenka Linneth
Published: October 2014

El objetivo principal del presente estudio de caso fue caracterizar a las empresas de los estudiantes y egresados de la Universidad EAN que transversaliza el tema de emprendimiento en su currículo. Se logró censar 346 empresas, de forma presencial y virtual, de los estudiantes y egresados que afirmaron tener empresa propia o de sus padres. Se les preguntó sobre los datos de la empresa, el uso de tecnología, el acceso al sistema financiero, el nivel de formación de sus recursos humanos, el acceso a mercados, el nivel de asociatividad de las empresas y la innovación empresarial. Los resultados señalan que el mayor porcentaje de las empresas censadas tienen menos de 10 empleados y se concentran principalmente en el sector de servicios, un bajo porcentaje exporta y tienen un limitado acceso al sistema financiero. En promedio las empresas contratan tanto a técnicos como a profesionales por igual, un bajo porcentaje forman parte de clústeres y un 28% cuentan con protocolo de familia.
MycN promotes TRPM7 expression and cell migration in neuroblastoma through a process that involves polyamines
Authors: Lange Ingo , Koomoa Dana-Lynn T.
Published: October 2014

Neuroblastoma is an extra‐cranial solid cancer in children. MYCN gene amplification is a prognostic indicator of poor outcome in neuroblastoma. Recent studies have shown that the multiple steps involved in cell migration are dependent on the availability of intracellular calcium (Ca2+). Although significant advances have been made in understanding the role of Ca2+ during migration, little has been achieved towards understanding its impact on the progression of diseases such as cancer. Interestingly, previous studies showed that cancer cell migration is regulated by TRPM7, a calcium‐permeable ion channel. The objective of the current study was to elucidate the mechanism by which MycN promotes NB cell migration and the mechanism regulating TRPM7 expression. The results showed that MycN increased TRPM7 expression, induced TRPM7 channel activity, increased intracellular Ca2+ signaling, and promoted cell migration in NB cells. The results also showed that inhibition or down‐regulation of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) inhibited TRPM7 expression, a process that was reversed by spermidine. Overall, this study provides evidence that MycN promotes TRPM7 expression and cell migration through a mechanism that involves ODC synthesis of polyamines.