bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One‐Pot UV‐Assisted Synthesis of Metal Phthalocyanine Nanocrystals
Authors: Saito Yuta , Higuchi Takeshi , Sugimori Hidekazu , Yabu Hiroshi
Published: March 2015

Metal phthalocyanines (PCs) are promising materials for various applications, including pigments, color filters, photovoltaic devices, and nonlinear optics, owing to their specific light‐absorption properties and high stability to chemical and thermal degradation. Nanocrystals (NCs) of metal PCs have received much attention because the optical and electronic properties of metal PCs are improved considerably by decreasing the crystal size to the nanoscale. In this study, we demonstrated the direct synthesis of Cu and Zn PCs in nanosized micelles by irradiating precursors with UV light. The synthesized metal PC NCs were stably dispersed in water by adding polyethylene glycol as a stabilizer. The aqueous dispersions of PC NCs showed strong visible light absorption from 500 to 800 nm and high transparency at wavelengths in the non‐absorption region.
Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of losmapimod in healthy Japanese volunteers
Authors: Ino Hiroko , Takahashi Naoki , Terao Takumi , Igarashi Harue , Sarai Nobuaki
Published: March 2015

This phase 1 study characterized the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of losmapimod and its metabolite GSK198602 following single and repeat doses of oral losmapimod in healthy Japanese volunteers. Subjects (n = 41) received single oral doses of losmapimod (2.5, 7.5, 20 mg) or matching placebo on 3 separate days (n = 20) or losmapimod 7.5 mg or matching placebo twice daily for 14 days (n = 21). Assessments included maximum observed plasma concentration (Cmax), time to Cmax (Tmax), apparent terminal‐phase half‐life (t1/)2, area under the curve (AUC), and change in C‐reactive protein and phosphorylated heat shock protein 27 levels. No serious adverse events occurred during the study, and there were no safety concerns regarding clinical laboratory parameters, 12‐lead electrocardiogram, or vital signs. The losmapimod Tmax was 3–4 hours, and the mean t1/2 was approximately 7.9–9.0 hours, with no appreciable difference in Tmax and apparent clearance following oral dosing between dosing regimens. Single and repeat oral doses of losmapimod were well tolerated in healthy Japanese volunteers. The Tmax of GSK198602 was similar to and t1/2 was slightly longer than those of losmapimod. Approximate dose‐proportional increases in exposure to losmapimod and GSK198602 were observed in AUC with single‐dose administration. Repeat‐dose trough concentrations reached steady state within 2 days, with an observed accumulation ratio of 1.56 and 1.91 for losmapimod and GSK198602, respectively.
Corporate Adaptation Behaviour to Deal With Climate Change: The Influence of Firm‐Specific Interpretations of Physical Climate Impacts
Authors: Gasbarro Federica , Pinkse Jonatan
Published: March 2015

While business tends to be seen as a substantial factor in causing climate change, climate‐induced physical changes can also pose major challenges to firms in return. Firms can reduce their vulnerability to these changes by defining and implementing an adaptation strategy. Based on an empirical analysis of the oil and gas industry, this paper examines how the way firms interpret climate events in terms of awareness and vulnerability informs their measures to adapt to climate‐induced physical change. In the empirical analysis, the paper derives four types of adaptation behaviour – pre‐emptive, reactive, continuous, and deferred adaptation – that correspond with different degrees of awareness and vulnerability. The paper concludes with implications for management practice and policymakers. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Data transfer minimization for financial derivative pricing using Monte Carlo simulation with GPU in 5G
Authors: Qiu Meikang , Cao Diqiu , Su Hai , Gai Keke
Published: March 2015

Mobile devices with an enhanced capability are desired to achieve more efficient and energy‐aware wireless communications in the future 5G networks. However, the performance of the expected hardware and networks will face a great challenge in efficiently calculating large data transmissions during the heavy wireless communications with a great number of random data. This paper proposes a novel paradigm for preventing future mobile technology implementations from the restrictions of hardware by using graphics processing units (GPUs). Our proposed mechanism is the first attempt in using GPUs to strengthen the wireless communication capability, which is proved by the experimental research and contributes to mobile technologies in 5G. We apply the Monte Carlo simulation method that is for evaluating the results of algorithms whose output depends on random variables. The experimental results show that Monte Carlo simulation based on GPU can achieve up to 25.9× speed compared with CPU‐based implementation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrate career, academic services to help students prepare for the future
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: March 2015

Combining a liberal arts education with applied learning prepares students for careers — from the first job through retirement. Could your institution do more to ensure that all students have equal opportunities? For example, do all students have the same access to internships? Or do those crucial experiences go to the most savvy students who know to seek them out?
Collaborate with other top administrators to address needs of students, institution
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: March 2015

What happens in other units can make a big difference to academics. But knowledge can get compartmentalized, even at a small college, said David F. Brightsman, dean of the College of Professional Studies at Wisconsin Lutheran College.
Wnt8a and Wnt3a cooperate in the axial stem cell niche to promote mammalian body axis extension
Authors: Cunningham Thomas J. , Kumar Sandeep , Yamaguchi Terry P. , Duester Gregg
Published: March 2015

Background: Vertebrate body axis extension occurs in a head‐to‐tail direction from a caudal progenitor zone that responds to interacting signals. Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is critical for generation of paraxial mesoderm, somite formation, and maintenance of the axial stem cell pool. Body axis extension requires Wnt8a in lower vertebrates, but in mammals Wnt3a is required, although the anterior trunk develops in the absence of Wnt3a. Results: We examined mouse Wnt8a–/– and Wnt3a–/– single and double mutants to explore whether mammalian Wnt8a contributes to body axis extension and to determine whether a posterior growth function for Wnt8a is conserved throughout the vertebrate lineage. We find that caudal Wnt8a is expressed only during early somite stages and is required for normal development of the anterior trunk in the absence of Wnt3a. During this time, we show that Wnt8a and Wnt3a cooperate to maintain Fgf8 expression and prevent premature Sox2 up‐regulation in the axial stem cell niche, critical for posterior growth. Similar to Fgf8, Wnt8a requires retinoic acid (RA) signaling to restrict its caudal expression boundary and possesses an upstream RA response element that binds RA receptors. Conclusions: These findings provide new insight into interaction of caudal Wnt‐FGF‐RA signals required for body axis extension. Developmental Dynamics 244:797–807, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Favorable effects of clearly defined interventions by parents at the start of treatment of adolescents with restrictive eating disorders
Authors: Månsson Josefin , Parling Thomas , Swenne Ingemar
Published: March 2015

Objective

To study the effect of clearly defined and decisive parental interventions at the start of treatment of restrictive eating disorders (ED) in adolescents.

Method

Forty‐seven adolescents with ED (anorexia nervosa = 6, bulimia nervosa = 1, EDNOS = 40) and their families participated. Parents were advised to (1) keep the adolescent home from school, (2) eat all meals together with the adolescent, (3) prevent any form of exercise, and (4) prevent vomiting during the first week of treatment. Weight change was followed up to three months and EDE‐Q administered at start of treatment and at three months.

Results

Thirty (64%) of the families accomplished all four interventions during the first week of treatment. Their adolescents gained ∼1 kg of weight at one week, 2 kg at one month, and 4 kg at three months while adolescents in families who did not accomplish all four interventions gained only 1.4 kg up to three months. Scores on the EDE‐Q decreased during treatment and in adolescents of families who accomplished all four interventions they were in the range of a reference population.

Discussion

Decisive parental management of eating disturbed behaviors at the start of treatment of adolescents with ED promotes later clinical outcome. The finding supports the view that family based therapies are effective in adolescent ED. Results has to be followed up for evaluation of the long term effects of this type of intervention. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2016; 49:92–97)
Association with pathogenic bacteria affects life‐history traits and population growth inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Diaz S. Anaid , Mooring Eric Q. , Rens Elisabeth G. , Restif Olivier
Published: March 2015

Determining the relationship between individual life‐history traits and population dynamics is an essential step to understand and predict natural selection. Model organisms that can be conveniently studied experimentally at both levels are invaluable to test the rich body of theoretical literature in this area. The nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans, despite being a well‐established workhorse in genetics, has only recently received attention from ecologists and evolutionary biologists, especially with respect to its association with pathogenic bacteria. In order to start filling the gap between the two areas, we conducted a series of experiments aiming at measuring life‐history traits as well as population growth ofC. elegansin response to three different bacterial strains:Escherichia coliOP50,Salmonella entericaTyphimurium, andPseudomonas aeruginosaPAO1. Whereas previous studies had established that the latter two reduced the survival of nematodes feeding on them compared toE. coliOP50, we report for the first time an enhancement in reproductive success and population growth for worms feeding onS. entericaTyphimurium. Furthermore, we used an age‐specific population dynamic model, parameterized using individual life‐history assays, to successfully predict the growth of populations over three generations. This study paves the way for more detailed and quantitative experimental investigation of the ecology and evolution ofC. elegansand the bacteria it interacts with, which could improve our understanding of the fate of opportunistic pathogens in the environment.
Lake size and fish diversity determine resource use and trophic position of a top predator in high‐latitude lakes
Authors: Eloranta Antti P. , Kahilainen Kimmo K. , Amundsen Per‐Arne , Knudsen Rune , Harrod Chris , Jones Roger I.
Published: March 2015

Prey preference of top predators and energy flow across habitat boundaries are of fundamental importance for structure and function of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, as they may have strong effects on production, species diversity, and food‐web stability. In lakes, littoral and pelagic food‐web compartments are typically coupled and controlled by generalist fish top predators. However, the extent and determinants of such coupling remains a topical area of ecological research and is largely unknown in oligotrophic high‐latitude lakes. We analyzed food‐web structure and resource use by a generalist top predator, the Arctic charrSalvelinus alpinus(L.), in 17 oligotrophic subarctic lakes covering a marked gradient in size (0.5–1084 km2) and fish species richness (2–13 species). We expected top predators to shift from littoral to pelagic energy sources with increasing lake size, as the availability of pelagic prey resources and the competition for littoral prey are both likely to be higher in large lakes with multispecies fish communities. We also expected top predators to occupy a higher trophic position in lakes with greater fish species richness due to potential substitution of intermediate consumers (prey fish) and increased piscivory by top predators. Based on stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analyses, the mean reliance of Arctic charr on littoral energy sources showed a significant negative relationship with lake surface area, whereas the mean trophic position of Arctic charr, reflecting the lake food‐chain length, increased with fish species richness. These results were supported by stomach contents data demonstrating a shift of Arctic charr from an invertebrate‐dominated diet to piscivory on pelagic fish. Our study highlights that, because they determine the main energy source (littoral vs. pelagic) and the trophic position of generalist top predators, ecosystem size and fish diversity are particularly important factors influencing function and structure of food webs in high‐latitude lakes.
Monthly land cover‐specific evapotranspiration models derived from global eddy flux measurements and remote sensing data
Authors: Fang Yuan , Sun Ge , Caldwell Peter , McNulty Steven G. , Noormets Asko , Domec Jean‐Christophe , King John , Zhang Zhiqiang , Zhang Xudong , Lin Guanghui , Zhou Guangsheng , Xiao Jingfeng , Chen Jiquan
Published: March 2015

Evapotranspiration (ET) is arguably the most uncertain ecohydrologic variable for quantifying watershed water budgets. Although numerous ET and hydrological models exist, accurately predicting the effects of global change on water use and availability remains challenging because of model deficiency and/or a lack of input parameters. The objective of this study was to create a new set of monthly ET models that can better quantify landscape‐level ET with readily available meteorological and biophysical information. We integrated eddy covariance flux measurements from over 200 sites, multiple year remote sensing products from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), and statistical modelling. Through examining the key biophysical controls on ET by land cover type (i.e. shrubland, cropland, deciduous forest, evergreen forest, mixed forest, grassland, and savannas), we created unique ET regression models for each land cover type using different combinations of biophysical independent factors. Leaf area index and net radiation explained most of the variability of observed ET for shrubland, cropland, grassland, savannas, and evergreen forest ecosystems. In contrast, potential ET (PET) as estimated by the temperature‐based Hamon method was most useful for estimating monthly ET for deciduous and mixed forests. The more data‐demanding PET method, FAO reference ET model, had similar power as the simpler Hamon PET method for estimating actual ET. We developed three sets of monthly ET models by land cover type for different practical applications with different data availability. Our models may be used to improve water balance estimates for large basins or regions with mixed land cover types. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contested Governmentalities: NGO enrollment and influence over chemical risk governance rationales and practices
Authors: Edge Sara , Eyles John
Published: March 2015

The assessment and management of chemical risks is a contested domain of governance. Governments are increasingly investing in multi‐stakeholder processes to address thousands of substances that are in widespread use globally, despite never having been assessed for toxicity and exposure risks to human health and the environment. Using a governmentality approach, we examine whether the increased engagement of NGOs is changing how chemical governance is being conducted in Canada. To do this, we focus on a combination of expert subjectivities, knowledge inputs and prevailing risk assessment and management practices and rationales. The advocacy of alternative conduct and approaches by NGOs (e.g. stronger regulations, reductions in production, shifted burden of proof, new knowledge practices, greater transparency of technical details etc.) is situated within relations of power between neo‐liberal states, industry and science. Various ‘enrollment’ tactics shape the influence of NGOs, which explains in part why particular practices gain ascendency over alternatives (e.g. restrictive timelines, contracts with limited funds, information access, questioning of scientific credibility etc.). The influence of NGOs is complex, as they engage within imposed rules for conduct and governance, simultaneously challenging and reinforcing dominant practices and norms. Risk governmentalities and rationales therefore shape not only the conduct of citizens, but also that of governance stakeholders themselves. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Activated NKT cells imprint NK‐cell differentiation, functionality and education
Authors: Riese Peggy , Trittel Stephanie , May Tobias , Cicin‐Sain Luka , Chambers Benedict J. , Guzmán Carlos A.
Published: March 2015

NK cells represent a vital component of the innate immune system. The recent discoveries demonstrating that the functionality of NK cells depends on their differentiation and education status underscore their potential as targets for immune intervention. However, to exploit their full potential, a detailed understanding of the cellular interactions involved in these processes is required. In this regard, the cross‐talk between NKT cells and NK cells needs to be better understood. Our results provide strong evidence for NKT cell‐induced effects on key biological features of NK cells. NKT‐cell activation results in the generation of highly active CD27high NK cells with improved functionality. In this context, degranulation activity and IFNγ production were mainly detected in the educated subset. In a mCMV infection model, we also demonstrated that NKT‐cell stimulation induced the generation of highly functional educated and uneducated NK cells, crucial players in viral control. Thus, our findings reveal new fundamental aspects of the NKT‐NK cell axis that provide important hints for the manipulation of NK cells in clinical settings.
Synthesis and Applications of Azolylpurine and Azolylpurine Nucleoside Derivatives
Authors: Novosjolova Irina , Bizdēna Ērika , Turks Māris
Published: March 2015

Azolylpurines and azolylpurine nucleosides have important medicinal and biological applications. They are used as adenosine receptor agonists and antagonists and also as antivirals. Several compounds of this class exhibit fluorescent properties that can be applied in biological chemistry. This review summarizes and classifies all reported classes of purine‐azole conjugates, strategies for their syntheses, and suggestions of compound classes yet to be synthesized. Synthetic methodologies directed towards purine–azole conjugates, including SNAr reactions, cyclizations of amino‐ or hydrazinylpurines, and transition‐metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions, are discussed, as well as the use of selected azolylpurine derivatives as synthetic intermediates.
Competition between E. coli and Shewanella sp. for electricity generation in air cathode MFC in presence of methylene blue as artificial mediator
Authors: Miroliaei Mohammad Reza , Samimi Abdolreza , Mohebbi‐Kalhori Davod , Khorram Mohammad , Qasemi Ali
Published: March 2015

Shewanella sp. and E. coli are two types of bacteria which transfer electron in MFC directly and indirectly with aid of an artificial mediator such as: methylene blue (MB). In this study, competition between these bacteria for electricity generation, in pure and binary culture conditions, was studied, considering the effect of MB concentration. For E. coli increasing the MB concentration in the anode chamber from zero to 10 and 25 mol m−3 could enhance the maximum power density from 12.15 ± 1.24 to 22.65 ± 6.59 and 46.14 ± 3.92 mW m−2, respectively. However, further increase of the concentration to 50 mol m−3 decreased the power density to 33.54 ± 9.11 mW m−2. For Shewanella. sp. applying the same range of concentration increase as E. coli (0–50 mol m−3), continuously, diminished the power density from 26.91 ± 1.71 to 14.06 ± 6.84, 12.56 ± 0.90, and 3.01 ± 0.66 mW m−2. The binary culture of these bacteria had an intermediate trend between their pure cultures. These results represented that Shewanella sp. could donate electrons directly and presence of MB, even, lessened the power generation yield. On the contrary, for E. coli the rise of MB concentration to an optimum value facilitated the electron transfer. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1097–1105, 2015
Upgrading strategies for effective utilization of biogas
Authors: Salihu Aliyu , Alam Md. Zahangir
Published: March 2015

Production of biogas is based on anaerobic digestion of different renewable raw materials including human, animal, agricultural, industrial, and municipal wastes. In addition to methane content, biogas contains carbon dioxide along with water vapor, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and depending on the raw materials siloxane can be present. Thus, different purification and upgrading strategies are necessary in order to enhance the methane content; this review presents some of the upgrading technologies for practical removal of major contaminants in biogas. Recent development in membrane technology with high selectivity and permeability could serve as a boost in search for the most efficient biogas upgrading process capable of meeting the requirements for its use in vehicle fuel as well as incorporation in the natural gas grid. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1512–1520, 2015
Exploring Emotion Recognition in Adults and Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa Using a Body Motion Paradigm
Authors: Lang Katie , Dapelo Marcela Marin , Khondoker Mizanur , Morris Robin , Surguladze Simon , Treasure Janet , Tchanturia Kate
Published: March 2015

Objective

There is consistent evidence of difficulties in social cognition in adults with anorexia nervosa (AN), but less is known about adolescents. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability to recognise emotion expressed in body movement in adults and adolescents with AN.

Method

One hundred and ninety‐three females participated in the study (AN = 97: 61 adults and 36 adolescents). The performance of participants with AN on a body emotion recognition task was compared to age‐matched healthy controls (HC = 96).

Results

AN participants were significantly worse than HC recognising sadness, with adolescent AN participants showing worse performance overall. There were no difficulties in the recognition of other emotions.

Discussion

The results partially support previous studies and the literature on facial emotion recognition, showing poorer recognition of sadness in AN. The results also suggest that difficulties in emotion recognition through body movements may be more subtle than other socio‐emotional difficulties observed in AN. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Exchange‐Traded Barrier Option and VPIN: Evidence from Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung William M. , Chou Robin K. , Lei Adrian C.H.
Published: March 2015

We study the validity of the volume‐synchronized probability of informed trading (VPIN) metric in measuring the order flow toxicity around the mandatory call events of callable bull/bear contracts. High VPIN around mandatory call events indicates the existence of large volume imbalances, suggesting high market risk surrounding those call events. In this study, we provide the first direct evidence of the validity of VPIN outside the U.S. market. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 35:561–581, 2015
Pleiotropy Analysis of Quantitative Traits at Gene Level by Multivariate Functional Linear Models
Authors: Wang Yifan , Liu Aiyi , Mills James L. , Boehnke Michael , Wilson Alexander F. , Bailey‐Wilson Joan E. , Xiong Momiao , Wu Colin O. , Fan Ruzong
Published: March 2015

In genetics, pleiotropy describes the genetic effect of a single gene on multiple phenotypic traits. A common approach is to analyze the phenotypic traits separately using univariate analyses and combine the test results through multiple comparisons. This approach may lead to low power. Multivariate functional linear models are developed to connect genetic variant data to multiple quantitative traits adjusting for covariates for a unified analysis. Three types of approximate F‐distribution tests based on Pillai–Bartlett trace, Hotelling–Lawley trace, and Wilks's Lambda are introduced to test for association between multiple quantitative traits and multiple genetic variants in one genetic region. The approximate F‐distribution tests provide much more significant results than those of F‐tests of univariate analysis and optimal sequence kernel association test (SKAT‐O). Extensive simulations were performed to evaluate the false positive rates and power performance of the proposed models and tests. We show that the approximate F‐distribution tests control the type I error rates very well. Overall, simultaneous analysis of multiple traits can increase power performance compared to an individual test of each trait. The proposed methods were applied to analyze (1) four lipid traits in eight European cohorts, and (2) three biochemical traits in the Trinity Students Study. The approximate F‐distribution tests provide much more significant results than those of F‐tests of univariate analysis and SKAT‐O for the three biochemical traits. The approximate F‐distribution tests of the proposed functional linear models are more sensitive than those of the traditional multivariate linear models that in turn are more sensitive than SKAT‐O in the univariate case. The analysis of the four lipid traits and the three biochemical traits detects more association than SKAT‐O in the univariate case.
Microbial‐derived lithocholic acid and vitamin K2 drive the metabolic maturation of pluripotent stem cells–derived and fetal hepatocytes
Authors: Avior Yishai , Levy Gahl , Zimerman Michal , Kitsberg Daniel , Schwartz Robert , Sadeh Ronen , Moussaieff Arieh , Cohen Merav , Itskovitz‐Eldor Joseph , Nahmias Yaakov
Published: March 2015

The liver is the main organ responsible for the modification, clearance, and transformational toxicity of most xenobiotics owing to its abundance in cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes. However, the scarcity and variability of primary hepatocytes currently limits their utility. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) represent an excellent source of differentiated hepatocytes; however, current protocols still produce fetal‐like hepatocytes with limited mature function. Interestingly, fetal hepatocytes acquire mature CYP450 expression only postpartum, suggesting that nutritional cues may drive hepatic maturation. We show that vitamin K2 and lithocholic acid, a by‐product of intestinal flora, activate pregnane X receptor (PXR) and subsequent CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 expression in hPSC‐derived and isolated fetal hepatocytes. Differentiated cells produce albumin and apolipoprotein B100 at levels equivalent to primary human hepatocytes, while demonstrating an 8‐fold induction of CYP450 activity in response to aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist omeprazole and a 10‐fold induction in response to PXR agonist rifampicin. Flow cytometry showed that over 83% of cells were albumin and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α) positive, permitting high‐content screening in a 96‐well plate format. Analysis of 12 compounds showed an R
2 correlation of 0.94 between TC50 values obtained in stem cell–derived hepatocytes and primary cells, compared to 0.62 for HepG2 cells. Finally, stem cell–derived hepatocytes demonstrate all toxicological endpoints examined, including steatosis, apoptosis, and cholestasis, when exposed to nine known hepatotoxins. Conclusion: Our work provides fresh insights into liver development, suggesting that microbial‐derived cues may drive the maturation of CYP450 enzymes postpartum. Addition of these cues results in the first functional, inducible, hPSC‐derived hepatocyte for predictive toxicology. (Hepatology 2015;62:265‐278)
Depletion of alveolar macrophages in CD11c diphtheria toxin receptor mice produces an inflammatory response
Authors: Roberts Lydia M. , Ledvina Hannah E. , Tuladhar Shraddha , Rana Deepa , Steele Shaun P. , Sempowski Gregory D. , Frelinger Jeffrey A.
Published: March 2015

Alveolar macrophages play a critical role in initiating the immune response to inhaled pathogens and have been shown to be the first cell type infected following intranasal inoculation with several pathogens, including Francisella tularensis. In an attempt to further dissect the role of alveolar macrophages in the immune response to Francisella, we selectively depleted alveolar macrophages using CD11c.DOG mice. CD11c.DOG mice express the diphtheria toxin receptor (DTR) under control of the full CD11c promoter. Because mice do not express DTR, tissue restricted expression of the primate DTR followed by treatment with diphtheria toxin (DT) has been widely used as a tool in immunology to examine the effect of acute depletion of a specific immune subset following normal development. We successfully depleted alveolar macrophages via intranasal administration of DT. However, alveolar macrophage depletion was accompanied by many other changes to the cellular composition and cytokine/chemokine milieu in the lung that potentially impact innate and adaptive immune responses. Importantly, we observed a transient influx of neutrophils in the lung and spleen. Our experience serves as a cautionary note to other researchers using DTR mice given the complex changes that occur following DT treatment that must be taken into account when analyzing data.
Rapid Identification of Terminal Sialic Acid Linkage Isomers by Pseudo‐MS3 Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chen Chein‐Hung , Lin Ya‐Ping , Lin Jung‐Lee , Li Shiou‐Ting , Ren Chien‐Tai , Wu Chung‐Yi , Chen Chung‐Hsuan
Published: March 2015

We used pseudo‐triple‐stage tandem MS to rapidly differentiate terminal α(2,3)‐ and α(2,6)‐linked sialic acids of glycopeptides and native glycans. The precursor ions generate important diagnostic fragments to distinguish different terminal linked isomeric glycans and glycopeptides based on collision‐induced dissociation (CID). The diagnostic ions include hexose linked with N‐acetylhexosamine residues, sialic acid with the loss of water, and sialic acid residues. Their values of mass‐to‐charge ratio (m/z) are at 366.14, 274.09, and 292.10, respectively. The relative intensity ratios (RIR) were calculated by the intensity of signals at m/z 274.09 and 292.10 divided by the intensity of the signal at m/z 366.14. Under optimal conditions of an in‐source fragmentation voltage of 70 V and a normalized collision energy of 30 %, the difference in RIR of diagnostic ions between terminal α(2,3)‐linked sialic acid of glycopeptide (1.3) and terminal α(2,6)‐linked sialic acid of glycopeptide (<0.18) is the largest. Moreover, quantitative calibration curves with different percentages of α(2,3)‐ and α(2,6)‐linked sialoglycopeptides demonstrated that this method applied not only to biantennary N‐linked glycan, but also to complex and hybrid N‐linked glycans and O‐linked glycans. From measurements of the RIR of diagnostic ions, erythropoietin, fetuin, and herceptin have 98, 70, and 100 %, respectively, α(2,3)‐linked N‐sialic acid of total terminal sugar moieties. N‐Glycosylation of the antibody‐binding fragment (Fab) moiety of cetuximab has 100 % α(2,6)‐linked N‐glycolylneuraminic acid terminal glycan linkages. This method can be applied to identify compounds from chemical synthesis. It can also be used for quality evaluation of bio‐similar protein drugs.
Identification of Lectins from Metastatic Cancer Cells through Magnetic Glyconanoparticles
Authors: Kavunja Herbert W. , Voss Patricia G. , Wang John L. , Huang Xuefei
Published: March 2015

Cancer cells can have characteristic carbohydrate binding properties. Previously, it was shown that a highly metastatic melanoma cell line B16F10 bound to galactoside‐functionalized nanoparticles much stronger than the corresponding less metastatic B16F1 cells. To better understand the carbohydrate binding properties of cancer cells, herein, we report the isolation and characterization of endogenous galactose binding proteins from B16F10 cells using magnetic glyconanoparticles. The galactose‐coated magnetic glyconanoparticles could bind with lectins present in the cells and be isolated through magnet‐mediated separation. Through Western blot and mass spectrometry, the arginine/serine rich splicing factor Sfrs1 was identified as a galactose‐selective endogenous lectin, overexpressed in B16F10 cells, compared with B16F1 cells. In addition, galactin‐3 was found in higher amounts in B16F10 cells. Finally, the glyconanoparticles exhibited a superior efficiency in lectin isolation, from both protein mixtures and live cells, than the corresponding more traditional microparticles functionalized with carbohydrates. Thus, the magnetic glyconanoparticles present a useful tool for discovery of endogenous lectins, as well as binding partners of lectins, without prior knowledge of protein identities.
ANGIOSARCOMA OF THE CAROTID ARTERY: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Whyte Richard I. , Joseph Michael P. , Bennett William , Goodman Max L. , Brewster David C.
Published: March 2015

Angiosarcomas are rare tumors, particularly in the head and neck region. A case report of an angiosarcoma arising in the internal carotid artery is described; such an occurrence has not previously been reported. The etiology, pathology, and treatment of this unusual tumor are discussed.
Metals in cosmetics: implications for human health
Authors: Borowska Sylwia , Brzóska Malgorzata M.
Published: March 2015

Cosmetics, preparations repeatedly applied directly to the human skin, mucous membranes, hair and nails, should be safe for health, however, recently there has been increasing concern about their safety. Unfortunately, using these products in some cases is related to the occurrence of unfavourable effects resulting from intentional or the accidental presence of chemical substances, including toxic metals. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic and nickel, as well as aluminium, classified as a light metal, are detected in various types of cosmetics (colour cosmetics, face and body care products, hair cosmetics, herbal cosmetics, etc.). In addition, necessary, but harmful when they occur in excessive amounts, elements such as copper, iron, chromium and cobalt are also present in cosmetic products. Metals occurring in cosmetics may undergo retention and act directly in the skin or be absorbed through the skin into the blood, accumulate in the body and exert toxic effects in various organs. Some cases of topical (mainly allergic contact dermatitis) and systemic effects owing to exposure to metals present in cosmetics have been reported. Literature data show that in commercially available cosmetics toxic metals may be present in amounts creating a danger to human health. Thus, the present review article focused on the problems related to the presence of heavy metals and aluminium in cosmetics, including their sources, concentrations and law regulations as well as danger for the health of these products users. Owing to the growing usage of cosmetics it is necessary to pay special attention to these problems. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative effects of sulfhydryl compounds on target organellae, nuclei and mitochondria, of hydroxylated fullerene‐induced cytotoxicity in isolated rat hepatocytes
Authors: Nakagawa Yoshio , Inomata Akiko , Ogata Akio , Nakae Dai
Published: March 2015

DNA damage and cytotoxicity induced by a hydroxylated fullerene [C60(OH)24], which is a spherical nanomaterial and/or a water‐soluble fullerene derivative, and their protection by sulfhydryl compounds were studied in freshly isolated rat hepatocytes. The exposure of hepatocytes to C60(OH)24 at a concentration of 50 μM caused time (0 to 3 h)‐dependent cell death accompanied by the formation of cell surface blebs, the loss of cellular levels of ATP and reduced glutathione, accumulation of glutathione disulfide, and induction of DNA fragmentation assayed using alkali single‐cell agarose‐gel electrophoresis. C60(OH)24‐induced cytotoxicity was effectively prevented by pretreatment with sulfhydryl compounds. N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC), L‐cysteine and L‐methionine, at a concentration of 2.5 mM, ameliorated cell death, accompanied by a decrease in cellular ATP levels, formation of cell surface blebs, induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential caused by C60(OH)24. In addition, DNA fragmentation caused by C60(OH)24 was also inhibited by NAC, whereas an antioxidant ascorbic acid did not affect C60(OH)24‐induced cell death and DNA damage in rat hepatocytes. Taken collectively, these results indicate that incubation of rat hepatocytes with C60(OH)24 elicits DNA damage, suggesting that nuclei as well as mitochondria are target sites of the hydroxylated fullerene; and induction of DNA damage and oxidative stress is ameliorated by an increase in cellular GSH levels, suggesting that the onset of toxic effects may be partially attributable to a thiol redox‐state imbalance caused by C60(OH)24. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel in situ liquefying antimicrobial wrap for preventing tissue expander infections following breast reconstructive surgeries
Authors: Rosenblatt Joel , Viola George M. , Reitzel Ruth A. , Jamal Mohamed A. , Crosby Melissa A. , Raad Issam
Published: March 2015

Breast reconstruction surgeries using tissue expanders (TEs) have highly reported infection rates. To decrease this, we developed a method for disinfecting TEs and surgical pockets, where an antimicrobial solution was applied as a solid film at implantation that subsequently liquefied in situ to provide extended prophylaxis. Silicone discs cut from TEs were covered with gelatin‐based films containing minocycline (M) and rifampin (R). Discs and films soaked in saline were subsequently challenged with pathogen at days 1, 3, 7, and 10 and quantified for potential biofilm formation. Discs that were not harvested at each specific time points were refreshed with sterile saline. The discs were challenged with clinical isolates of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE), and multidrug‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDR‐PA). Recoveries of adherent organisms from uncovered silicone discs and gelatin‐wrapped discs without added antimicrobial agents were >5 × 104 CFU/disc for each organism at each time point. Experimental 0.1%M/0.05%R gelatin films completely inhibited all challenge organisms from attaching to the silicone (p < 0.05) at each time point through day 10. Cytotoxicity was assessed by incubating films with HEK‐293T human fibroblasts. There were no significant differences in HEK‐293T cell survival between controls and any of the antimicrobial films. The in situ liquefying, bioabsorable, antimicrobial wrap prevented biofilm formation by microorganisms on silicone surfaces in vitro with minimal cytotoxicity. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 369–374, 2016.
Feasibility of pig and human‐derived aortic valve interstitial cells seeding on fixative‐free decellularized animal pericardium
Authors: Santoro Rosaria , Consolo Filippo , Spiccia Marco , Piola Marco , Kassem Samer , Prandi Francesca , Vinci Maria Cristina , Forti Elisa , Polvani Gianluca , Fiore Gianfranco Beniamino , Soncini Monica , Pesce Maurizio
Published: March 2015

Glutaraldehyde‐fixed pericardium of animal origin is the elective material for the fabrication of bio‐prosthetic valves for surgical replacement of insufficient/stenotic cardiac valves. However, the pericardial tissue employed to this aim undergoes severe calcification due to chronic inflammation resulting from a non‐complete immunological compatibility of the animal‐derived pericardial tissue resulting from failure to remove animal‐derived xeno‐antigens. In the mid/long‐term, this leads to structural deterioration, mechanical failure, and prosthesis leaflets rupture, with consequent need for re‐intervention. In the search for novel procedures to maximize biological compatibility of the pericardial tissue into immunocompetent background, we have recently devised a procedure to decellularize the human pericardium as an alternative to fixation with aldehydes. In the present contribution, we used this procedure to derive sheets of decellularized pig pericardium. The decellularized tissue was first tested for the presence of 1,3 α‐galactose (αGal), one of the main xenoantigens involved in prosthetic valve rejection, as well as for mechanical tensile behavior and distensibility, and finally seeded with pig‐ and human‐derived aortic valve interstitial cells. We demonstrate that the decellularization procedure removed the αGAL antigen, maintained the mechanical characteristics of the native pig pericardium, and ensured an efficient surface colonization of the tissue by animal‐ and human‐derived aortic valve interstitial cells. This establishes, for the first time, the feasibility of fixative‐free pericardial tissue seeding with valve competent cells for derivation of tissue engineered heart valve leaflets. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 345–356, 2016.
Expression of the IL‐11 Gene in Metastatic Cells Is Supported by Runx2‐Smad and Runx2‐cJun Complexes Induced by TGFβ1
Authors: Zhang Xuhui , Wu Hai , Dobson Jason R. , Browne Gillian , Hong Deli , Akech Jacqueline , Languino Lucia R. , Stein Gary S. , Lian Jane B.
Published: March 2015

In tumor cells, two factors are abnormally increased that contribute to metastatic bone disease: Runx2, a transcription factor that promotes expression of metastasis related and osteolytic genes; and IL‐11, a secreted osteolytic cytokine. Here, we addressed a compelling question: Does Runx2 regulate IL‐11 gene expression? We find a positive correlation between Runx2, IL‐11 and TGFβ1, a driver of the vicious cycle of metastatic bone disease, in prostate cancer (PC) cell lines representing early (LNCaP) and late (PC3) stage disease. Further, like Runx2 knockdown, IL‐11 knockdown significantly reduced expression of several osteolytic factors. Modulation of Runx2 expression results in corresponding changes in IL‐11 expression. The IL‐11 gene has Runx2, AP‐1 sites and Smad binding elements located on the IL‐11 promoter. Here, we demonstrated that Runx2‐c‐Jun as well as Runx2‐Smad complexes upregulate IL‐11 expression. Functional studies identified a significant loss of IL‐11 expression in PC3 cells in the presence of the Runx2‐HTY mutant protein, a mutation that disrupts Runx2‐Smad signaling. In response to TGFβ1 and in the presence of Runx2, we observed a 30‐fold induction of IL‐11 expression, accompanied by increased c‐Jun binding to the IL‐11 promoter. Immunoprecipitation and in situ co‐localization studies demonstrated that Runx2 and c‐Jun form nuclear complexes in PC3 cells. Thus, TGFβ1 signaling induces two independent transcriptional pathways ‐ AP‐1 and Runx2. These transcriptional activators converge on IL‐11 as a result of Runx2‐Smad and Runx2‐c‐Jun interactions to amplify IL‐11 gene expression that, together with Runx2, supports the osteolytic pathology of cancer induced bone disease. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2098–2108, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Actor‐Partner Effects and the Differential Roles of Depression and Anxiety in Intimate Relationships: A Cross‐Sectional and Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Rehman Uzma S. , Evraire Lyndsay E. , Karimiha Gelareh , Goodnight Jackson A.
Published: March 2015

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the differential roles of depression and anxiety in intimate relationship satisfaction, both cross‐sectionally and longitudinally.

Method

The cross‐sectional sample comprised 70 couples, of which 48 couples also participated at follow‐up. All couples completed measures of relationship satisfaction and symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Results

Cross‐sectionally, actor symptoms of depression were the only predictor of relationship satisfaction, after controlling for symptoms of anxiety. Conversely, depressive symptoms did not predict change in relationship satisfaction over time above and beyond the effects of anxiety. Instead, actor symptoms of anxiety at time 1 predicted a decline in relationship satisfaction from time 1 to time 2. For wives, their husbands’ levels of anxiety at time 1 also predicted longitudinal change in relationship satisfaction.

Conclusion

These results highlight the importance of studying the constructs of depression and anxiety simultaneously, and point to intriguing gender differences.
The SWI/SNF ATPases Are Required for Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Wu Qiong , Madany Pasil , Akech Jacqueline , Dobson Jason R. , Douthwright Stephen , Browne Gillian , Colby Jennifer L. , Winter Georg E. , Bradner James E. , Pratap Jitesh , Sluder Greenfield , Bhargava Rohit , Chiosea Simion I. , van Wijnen Andre J. , Stein Janet L. , Stein Gary S. , Lian Jane B. , Nickerson Jeffrey A. , Imbalzano Anthony N.
Published: March 2015

The Brahma (BRM) and Brahma‐related Gene 1 (BRG1) ATPases are highly conserved homologs that catalyze the chromatin remodeling functions of the multi‐subunit human SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling enzymes in a mutually exclusive manner. SWI/SNF enzyme subunits are mutated or missing in many cancer types, but are overexpressed without apparent mutation in other cancers. Here, we report that both BRG1 and BRM are overexpressed in most primary breast cancers independent of the tumor's receptor status. Knockdown of either ATPase in a triple negative breast cancer cell line reduced tumor formation in vivo and cell proliferation in vitro. Fewer cells in S phase and an extended cell cycle progression time were observed without any indication of apoptosis, senescence, or alterations in migration or attachment properties. Combined knockdown of BRM and BRG1 showed additive effects in the reduction of cell proliferation and time required for completion of cell cycle, suggesting that these enzymes promote cell cycle progression through independent mechanisms. Knockout of BRG1 or BRM using CRISPR/Cas9 technology resulted in the loss of viability, consistent with a requirement for both enzymes in triple negative breast cancer cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 9999: 2683–2694, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.