bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SILAC‐based quantitative proteomic analysis of secretome between activated and reverted hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Wu Peng , Chen Fangyan , Hao Yunwei , Lao Yuanxiang , Ren Liangliang , Sun Longqin , Sun Wei , Wei Handong , Chan Daniel W. , Jiang Ying , He Fuchu
Published: July 2014

Activated hepatic stellate cell (HSC) is the main myofibroblast cell in the liver fibrosis (LF). An important characteristic of the recovery of LF is not only the apoptosis of activated HSCs but also reversal of myofibroblast‐like phenotype to a quiescent‐like phenotype. Understanding the changes of secreted proteins in the reversion of activated HSCs may provide the broader view of cellular regulatory networks and discover candidate markers or targets for therapeutic strategies of LF. In this study, stable isotope labeling with amino acids (SILAC) combined with linear ion trap‐Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer (LTQ‐FT MS) was performed on in vitro activated HSCs and reverted HSCs to obtain a proteomic view of secretory proteins. In total, 330 proteins showed significant differences in reverted HSCs. Among these, 109 upregulated proteins were mainly involved in amino acid metabolism pathway and glucose metabolism pathway using GeneGO/MetaCore software, while 221 downregulated proteins are closely associated with HSCs activation, such as cytoskeleton remodeling, chemokines, and cell adhesion. Additionally, a set of novel proteins associated with HSCs activation and reversion were validated by Western blotting in the cell secretion and in the sera of LF, including vitronectin, laminin beta 1, and ubiquitin conjugation factor E4B. Our study provided the valuable insight into the mechanisms in the reversion of activated HSCs and identified some potential biomarkers of LF in clinical studies. All MS data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD000773 (http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD000773).
Metal‐conducting polymer interface studied by Kelvin probe microscopy: Au and Al on poly(3‐octyl‐thiophene)
Authors: Abad Jose , Colchero Jaime
Published: July 2014

In this work, we report a Kelvin probe microscopy investigation on the structural and electronic properties of gold and aluminum thin films evaporated on poly(3‐octyl‐thiophene) films. Our experimental setup allows us to perform scanning force microscopy (SFM) studies of the same area even if the sample is taken out of the SFM system for different processes (Au and Al evaporation). This allows a detailed study of the effect of adsorbed metal particles on the morphology and electrical properties of polymer thin films at the nanoscale. We found different behavior for both metals in morphology and electrical properties at the interface. These results can contribute to explain what happens at the metal–polymer interface of the devices when the metal contacts are grown. Thereby the observed nanoscale structural changes can be correlated with the overall performance of the fabricated devices. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 1083–1093
Trends in wheeze in Dutch school children and the role of medication use
Authors: de Korte‐de Boer Dianne , Mommers Monique , Gielkens‐Sijstermans Cindy M.L. , Creemers Huub M.H. , Feron Frans J.M. , van Schayck Onno C.P.
Published: July 2014

Background

While the prevalence of childhood wheeze continues to increase in many countries, decreasing trends have also been reported. This may be explained by increased use of asthma medication, which effectively suppresses wheeze symptoms. In this study we investigated trends in wheeze in Dutch school children between 1989 and 2005, and their association with medication use.

Methods

In five repeated cross‐sectional surveys between 1989 and 2005, parents of all 5‐ to 6‐year‐old and 8‐ to 11‐year‐old children eligible for a routine physical examination were asked to complete a questionnaire on their child's respiratory health. We identified all children for whom a questionnaire was completed in two successive surveys. Children were grouped according to birth year and classified into one out of four wheeze categories: “no wheeze,” “discontinued wheeze,” “continued wheeze,” or “new‐onset wheeze.”

Results

In total, 3,339 children, born in 1983 (N = 670), 1988 (N = 607), 1992 (N = 980), and 1995 (N = 1,082), participated twice. Over the study period, the proportion of children with “no wheeze” increased from 73.8% to 86.1% (Ptrend < 0.001), while the proportion of children with “discontinued” and “continued” wheeze decreased from 13.2% to 6.3% (Ptrend < 0.001) and from 8.8% to 3.1% (Ptrend < 0.001), respectively. Medication use was consistently associated only with the presence of wheeze symptoms and this association did not change over time (Pbirth year × medication use > 0.05 for all wheeze categories).

Conclusion

An increasing trend of Dutch school children with “no wheeze,” and decreasing trends of children with “discontinued” and “continued” wheeze between 1989 and 2005 could not be explained by (increased) medication use. This suggests that wheeze prevalence is not masked by medication use, but is truly declining. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:665–671. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Theoretical study on SH2 reaction of methyl radical with three‐membered ring
Authors: Zhang Xiang
Published: July 2014

Bimolecular homolytic substitution (SH2) reactions of the methyl radical with a series of three‐membered ring compounds have been given a systematic theoretical study. These reactions proceed predominantly via the backside displacement. The formation of the new radical product is thermodynamically favorable probably due to the release of the ring strain. Natural bond orbital analysis reveals that SOMO → σ*(C‐X) (X= C, N, O) interaction plays a major role in these SH2 reactions, which shows the methyl radical mainly acts as a nucleophilic radical. In addition, according to the activation strain model analysis, an expected single correlation has not been obtained between the reactant distortion enthalpies and the overall activation enthalpies. However, these reactions can be divided into three groups and each group exhibits a good linear correlation. Marcus theory can thoroughly account for this phenomenon. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Wafer‐Scale Double‐Layer Stacked Au/Al2O3@Au Nanosphere Structure with Tunable Nanospacing for Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Hu Zhaosheng , Liu Zhe , Li Lin , Quan Baogang , Li Yunlong , Li Junjie , Gu Changzhi
Published: July 2014

Fabricating perfect plasmonic nanostructures has been a major challenge in surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) research. Here, a double‐layer stacked Au/Al2O3@Au nanosphere structures is designed on the silicon wafer to bring high density, high intensity “hot spots” effect. A simply reproducible high‐throughput approach is shown to fabricate feasibly this plasmonic nanostructures by rapid thermal annealing (RTA) and atomic layer deposition process (ALD). The double‐layer stacked Au nanospheres construct a three‐dimensional plasmonic nanostructure with tunable nanospacing and high‐density nanojunctions between adjacent Au nanospheres by ultrathin Al2O3 isolation layer, producing highly strong plasmonic coupling so that the electromagnetic near‐field is greatly enhanced to obtain a highly uniform increase of SERS with an enhancement factor (EF) of over 107. Both heterogeneous nanosphere group (Au/Al2O3@Ag) and pyramid‐shaped arrays structure substrate can help to increase the SERS signals further, with a EF of nearly 109. These wafer‐scale, high density homo/hetero‐metal‐nanosphere arrays with tunable nanojunction between adjacent shell‐isolated nanospheres have significant implications for ultrasensitive Raman detection, molecular electronics, and nanophotonics.
Multifunktionale Verbunddecke mit integrierter Gebäudetechnik
Authors: Hegger Josef , Claßen Martin , Gallwoszus Joerg , Schaumann Peter , Weisheim Waldemar , Sothmann Jörg , Feldmann Markus , Pyschny Dominik , Bohne Dirk , Hargus Steen
Published: July 2014

Der moderne Hoch‐ und Geschossbau benötigt ganzheitlich auf Nachhaltigkeit ausgerichtete Gebäudekonzepte, die ein hohes Maß an Nutzungsflexibilität und Multifunktionalität bieten und hierdurch die Bauwerkslebensdauer und ‐wirtschaftlichkeit erhöhen [1]. Hierbei weisen Deckenkonstruktionen ein besonderes Verbesserungspotential auf. Multifunktionale und integrierte Deckensysteme können einen entscheidenden Beitrag zur Schaffung nachhaltiger Gebäudestrukturen leisten.

Im vorliegenden Artikel wird ein neuartiges, multifunktionales Deckensystem in Stahl‐Beton‐Verbundbauweise (InaDeck) vorgestellt, welches die vollständige Unterbringung aller gebäudetechnischen Bestandteile innerhalb eines Deckenzwischenraumes ermöglicht. Die Deckenelemente bestehen aus Verbundträgern mit Einzelflansch und vorgespanntem Betongurt sowie einer Verbunddübelleiste als Verbundmittel (filigrane Verbundträger). Zur flexiblen Leitungsführung sind große Stegöffnungen im Verbundträger angeordnet. Durch den vorgespannten Betongurt an der Querschnittsunterseite der Deckenelemente kombiniert das Deckensystem gute bauphysikalische Eigenschaften und Brandschutzmerkmale mit großen Spannweiten für eine hohe Flexibilität und eine variable Grundrissgestaltung. Der Artikel verdeutlicht die vielschichtigen Wechselwirkungen zwischen den Fachdisziplinen Gebäudetechnik, Bauphysik, Brandschutz sowie Tragwerksplanung.

Multifunctional composite slab system with integrated building services – Studies on the load bearing and fire behavior, thermal efficiency and sustainability of a novel composite floor system. Modern multi‐story buildings require holistic and sustainable building conceptions that provide a high flexibility of use and multi‐functionality and thereby increase the building’s service life and economy [1]. Special potential for improvement in this case provides the research area of floor‐slab structures. Multifunctional and integrated floor‐slab‐systems can make a significant contribution to the creation of sustainable building structures.

In this paper, a novel multi‐functional composite floor system (InaDeck) is presented which incorporates all building services and installations into the structural element by means of an integrated installation floor. The floor‐slab elements are made of prestressed composite beams with single flange and continuous shear connectors (filigree composite beams) which have large web openings for the routing of integrated building services. Due to a pre‐stressed concrete chord at the bottom side of the cross section, the slab system features improved physical and fire protection characteristics and provides wide spans for increased flexibility at the same time. The article highlights the complex interactions between the disciplines of building services, building physics, structural engineering and fire protection.
Energieoptimierte Gebäudehüllen in Stahlleichtbauweise für den Industrie‐ und Gewerbebau
Authors: Feldmann Markus , Kuhnhenne Markus , Brieden Matthias , Pyschny Dominik , Rexroth Susanne , Deininger Florian , Hachul Helmut , Bach Janine , Rößling Heike , Ummenhofer Thomas , Fauth Christian
Published: July 2014

Gebäudehüllen für den Industrie‐ und Gewerbebau bergen ein großes, bisher relativ unbeachtetes Potential der Energieeinsparung auf dem Bausektor. Da hier der Großteil von Dach und Wand aus Bauelementen aus Stahlfeinblech hergestellt wird, liegt es nahe, Forschung und Entwicklung dieser Elemente weiter zu treiben, und zwar auf der energetisch passiven wie auch auf der aktiven Seite. Auf der passiven Seite sind die Energie‐ und Wärmeverluste zu minimieren. Hier werden die bauphysikalischen Eigenschaften der Konstruktionen im Hinblick auf Verbesserungsmöglichkeiten von Wärmeschutz, Feuchteschutz und Luftdichtheit hin untersucht. Dabei liegt ein besonderer Schwerpunkt auf der integralen Betrachtung der wechselseitigen bauphysikalischen Abhängigkeiten. Demgegenüber werden auf der aktiven Seite die Möglichkeiten der gewinnbringenden Nutzung der auf die Gebäudehülle auftreffenden solaren Einstrahlung untersucht. Im Vordergrund steht in diesem Zusammenhang die Integration von solarthermischer und photovoltaischer Technologie in Bauteilsysteme des Stahlleichtbaus. Die sich ergebenden Eingriffe in die bestehenden Konstruktionen sind wiederum Gegenstand weiterer bauphysikalischer Untersuchungen. Abschließend wird die Bewertung der erzielten Qualität der Gebäudehülle anhand von Nachhaltigkeitskriterien durchgeführt.

Energy‐optimized building envelopes in steel for industrial and commercial buildings. Envelopes for industrial buildings provide a considerable potential of energy saving on the construction sector. A large amount of roofing and walling is being produced of elements of thin steel sheeting. The need for research and development is apparent, the topics of which can be ordered to a passive and an active side. On the passive side the energy and heat losses are to be reduced. In order to improve the thermal insulation, moisture protection and air tightness performance the building physical properties of the constructions are investigated. A particular focus is on the integral consideration of the mutual dependencies of building physics. Researches on the active side deal with the options of profitable use of the solar irradiation that hit the building envelope. In this context, the integration of solar thermal and photovoltaic technology in building systems in steel is the main aspect. Against this background, the resulting interventions in the existing structures again are the subject to further investigations. Finally, an evaluation of the achieved quality of the building envelope is carried out with respect to sustainability criteria.
Leptin Signaling Is Required for Augmented Therapeutic Properties of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Conferred by Hypoxia Preconditioning
Authors: Hu Xinyang , Wu Rongrong , Jiang Zhi , Wang Lihan , Chen Panpan , Zhang Ling , Yang Lu , Wu Yan , Chen Han , Chen Huiqiang , Xu Yinchuan , Zhou Yu , Huang Xin , Webster Keith A. , Yu Hong , Wang Jian’an
Published: July 2014

Hypoxia preconditioning enhances the therapeutic effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). However, the mechanism underlying hypoxia-induced augmentation of the protective effect of MSCs on myocardial infarction (MI) is poorly understood. We show that hypoxia-enhanced survival, mobility, and protection of cocultured cardiomyocytes were paralleled by increased expression of leptin and cell surface receptor CXCR4. The enhanced activities were abolished by either knockdown of leptin with a selective shRNA or by genetic deficiency of leptin or its receptor in MSCs derived, respectively, from ob/ob or db/db mice. To characterize the role of leptin in the regulation of MSC functions by hypoxia and its possible contribution to enhanced therapeutic efficacy, cell therapy using MSCs derived from wild-type, ob/ob, or db/db mice was implemented in mouse models of acute MI. Augmented protection by hypoxia pretreatment was only seen with MSCs from wild-type mice. Parameters that were differentially affected by hypoxia pretreatment included MSC engraftment, c-Kit+ cell recruitment to the infarct, vascular density, infarct size, and long-term contractile function. These data show that leptin signaling is an early and essential step for the enhanced survival, chemotaxis, and therapeutic properties of MSCs conferred by preculture under hypoxia. Leptin may play a physiological role in priming MSCs resident in the bone marrow endosteum for optimal response to systemic signaling molecules and subsequent tissue repair. Stem Cells  2014;32:2702–2713
Teaching for Transfer in the Common Core Era
Authors: Dewitz Peter , Graves Michael F.
Published: July 2014

The goal of the Common Core State Standards, college and career readiness, is dependent of teaching for transfer ‐ the ability to apply the knowledge, skills and disposition learned in one context to another or future context. In this article we discuss the types of transfer, automatic application or deliberate conscious application. We then discuss what teachers can do to insure that students will transfer what they learn to new and future contexts.
Predicting wind power variability events using different statistical methods driven by regional atmospheric model output
Authors: Ellis Nick , Davy Robert , Troccoli Alberto
Published: July 2014

Variability in power generation from wind farms is an important issue in the energy industry. If sub‐hour variability events can be predicted, potential disruptions to the grid operations might be mitigated. Using 4 years of 5 min wind power data from the Australian Energy Market Operator for an 80 MW wind farm in south‐east Australia, we fit statistical models of variability on meteorological reanalysis data from the US National Centers for Environmental Prediction. The National Centers for Environmental Prediction fields were transformed into spatial empirical orthogonal functions, and 6 h projections onto these became explanatory covariates for generalized linear, random forest (RF), gradient boosting and support vector machine classification models. Other covariates considered were local wind speed and 6 h‐lagged empirical orthogonal function differences. Models were selected by minimizing cross‐validated misclassification rate and assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and reliability score. Considering performance and ease of tuning, RFs were preferred. Performance was poorer for larger ramps. The RFs accurately predicted their performance on the validation set. For asymmetric costs (miss‐to‐false alarm cost ratio = 10), RFs yielded competitive low‐cost models. Support vector machines produced slightly superior models but needed to be tuned manually. RF models using atmospheric model output provide a robust approach to predicting wind power variability and relatively large ramp events. We recommend the RF models as a practical and skilful method to feed into an early warning system for energy/electricity operators. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The destiny of Ca2+ released by mitochondria
Authors: Takeuchi Ayako , Kim Bongju , Matsuoka Satoshi
Published: July 2014

Mitochondrial Ca2+ is known to regulate diverse cellular functions, for example energy production and cell death, by modulating mitochondrial dehydrogenases, inducing production of reactive oxygen species, and opening mitochondrial permeability transition pores. In addition to the action of Ca2+ within mitochondria, Ca2+ released from mitochondria is also important in a variety of cellular functions. In the last 5 years, the molecules responsible for mitochondrial Ca2+ dynamics have been identified: a mitochondrial Ca2+ uniporter (MCU), a mitochondrial Na+–Ca2+ exchanger (NCLX), and a candidate for a mitochondrial H+–Ca2+ exchanger (Letm1). In this review, we focus on the mitochondrial Ca2+ release system, and discuss its physiological and pathophysiological significance. Accumulating evidence suggests that the mitochondrial Ca2+ release system is not only crucial in maintaining mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis but also participates in the Ca2+ crosstalk between mitochondria and the plasma membrane and between mitochondria and the endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum.
Revealing Relevant Proximities. Knowledge Networks in the Maritime Economy in a Spatial, Functional and Relational Perspective
Authors: Bentlage Michael , Wiese Anne , Brandt Arno , Thierstein Alain , Witlox Frank
Published: July 2014

The maritime economy as a heterogeneous innovation system has ongoing relevance to the successful spatial and functional development of regions in Europe. A strong technological knowledge base underpins the competitiveness of the maritime economy, which is grounded in distinct spatial structures and proximities. The simultaneous relevance of global and local knowledge is particularly pronounced in the maritime economy through its inherent relevance to globalization and structural change. Conventional classifications of the maritime economy embedded in the discussion of the spatialization of knowledge-intensive activities and global value chains, however, limit the analysis to certain parts of the maritime cluster. This paper examines the applicability of various discourses on interactive knowledge generation and application as a process, based on a comprehensive dataset derived from cooperative links within the maritime economy of northern Germany. It suggests a framework for analysis that is activity based and focuses on the concurrent presence of different dimensions of proximity across value-creating systems. We explore spatial patterns by means of social network analysis. These patterns are industry-specific and have the potential to inform efforts to increase functional as well as physical connectivity in regions. The empirical analysis begins with the individual firm as an actor seeking to optimize its location for the purpose of competitiveness. It proposes an approach that is rooted in the ongoing discussion on spatial and functional dispositions for innovation activity and that bridges the dichotomy of knowledge-intensive services and manufacturing activities in the maritime economy.
MicroRNA‐145 directly targets the insulin‐like growth factor receptor I in human bladder cancer cells
Authors: Zhu Zhaowei , Xu Tianyuan , Wang Li , Wang Xianjin , Zhong Shan , Xu Chen , Shen Zhoujun
Published: July 2014

The insulin‐like growth factor receptor I (IGF‐IR) is a proto‐oncogene with potent mitogenic and antiapoptotic activities. It has been reported that expression of IGF‐IR is up‐regulated in bladder cancer. Here, we assessed whether microRNA‐145 (miR‐145) regulates IGF‐IR expression in bladder cancer. In our study, miR‐145 was shown to directly target IGF‐IR 3′‐untranslated region (UTR) in human bladder cancer cells. Small interfering RNA (siRNA)‐ and miR‐145‐mediated IGF‐IR knockdown experiments revealed that miR‐145 promotes cell apoptosis, and suppresses cell proliferation and migration through suppression of IGF‐IR expression. Taken together, our data suggest that miR‐145 may inhibit bladder cancer initiation by affecting IGF‐IR signaling.
Umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells co‐modified by TERT and BDNF: A novel neuroprotective therapy for neonatal hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage
Authors: Zhao Fengyan , Qu Yi , Liu Haiting , Du Baowen , Mu Dezhi
Published: July 2014

Hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage (HIBD), a leading cause of perinatal disability and death, has limited therapeutic options. Stem cell therapy has been demonstrated as a potential novel therapy for neurological disorders. Compared with other types of stem cells, umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (UCB‐MSCs) have several unique characteristics, such as a higher rate of cell proliferation and clonality. However, the limited life span of UCB‐MSCs hinders their clinical application. Therefore, efforts are urgently needed to circumvent this disadvantage. Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), which promotes cell proliferation and survival, plays a protective role in hypoxic‐ischemic (HI) brain injury. Thus, it is reasonable to propose that UCB‐MSCs modified by exogenous TERT expression might have a longer lifespan and increased viability. Moreover, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin that regulates development, regeneration, survival and maintenance of neurons, facilitates post‐injury recovery when administered by infusion or virus‐mediated delivery. Therefore, TERT‐ and BDNF‐modified UCB‐MSCs may have a longer lifespan and also maintain neural differentiation, thus promoting the recovery of neurological function following hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage (HIBD) and thereby representing a new effective strategy for HIBD in neonates.
Developmental profile of neurogenesis in prenatal human hippocampus: An immunohistochemical study
Authors: Yang Pengbo , Zhang Junfeng , Shi Hangyu , Zhang Jianshui , Xu Xi , Xiao Xinli , Liu Yong
Published: July 2014

Hippocampus has attracted the attention of the neuroscientists for its involvement in a wide spectrum of higher‐order brain functions and pathological conditions, especially its persistent neurogenesis in subgranular zone (SGZ). The development of hippocampus was intensively investigated on animals such as rodents. However, in prenatal human hippocampus, little information on the distribution of neural stem/progenitor cells, newly generated neurons and mature neurons is available and the timetable of a series of neurogenesis event is even more obscure. So in the present study, we aim at immunohistochemically providing more information on neurogenesis in prenatal human hippocampus from 9 weeks to 32 weeks of gestation. We found that the ki67‐positive cells were always detected in hippocampus from 9 weeks to 32 weeks, with a peak at 9 weeks in cornu ammonis (CA) or 14 weeks in dentate gyrus (DG). At 9 weeks the nestin‐expressing cells were distributed throughout the hippocampus, with concentrated immunoreactivity in intermediate zone (IZ), marginal zone (MZ), fimbria, and relatively sparse immunoreactivity in the ventricular zone (VZ) and hippocampal plate (HP). With development, the optical density (OD) and the number of nestin‐positive cells decreased gradually. At 32 weeks, there were relatively more nestin‐positive cells in DG than that in CA. About DCX‐positive cells, they displayed a similar distribution as nestin‐positive cells (immunoreactivity concentrated in IZ, MZ, fimbria and HP) and a dramatic decrease of OD or cell number density from 9 weeks on. NeuN‐positive cells, with small nuclei, were firstly found in MZ and subplate of hippocampus at 9 weeks. After 14 weeks, many NeuN‐positive cells extended from subplate into HP and the density of NeuN‐positive cells peaked at 22 weeks. That the immunoreactivity for NeuN was the strongest and the nuclei were the biggest at 32 weeks suggests that the neurons reach maturity gradually. Therefore this study provides an important timetable of neurogenesis in prenatal human hippocampus for the clinicians in neuroscience or pediatrics.
Evacuation of a Mental Health Center During a Forest Fire in Israel
Authors: Kreinin Anatoly , Shakera Tatiana , Sheinkman Ayala , Levi Tamar , Tal Vered , Polakiewicz Jacob
Published: July 2014

Tirat Carmel Mental Health Center was successfully evacuated in December 2010 during a ravaging forest fire in the nearby Carmel Mountains. A total of 228 patients were successfully evacuated from the center within 45 minutes. No fatalities or injuries associated with the evacuation occurred. We believe that the efficient functioning of the administrative and medical staff provides a replicable model that can contribute to the level of awareness and readiness of hospital staff members for natural and manmade disasters. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2014;0:1-5)
Dynamics of piecewise contractions of the interval
Authors: NOGUEIRA ARNALDO , PIRES BENITO
Published: July 2014

We study the long-term behavior of injective piecewise contractions of the interval. We prove that every injective piecewise contraction with $n-1$ discontinuities has at most $n$ periodic orbits and is topologically conjugate to a piecewise linear contraction.
On the distribution of orbits in affine varieties
Authors: PETSCHE CLAYTON
Published: July 2014

Given an affine variety$X$, a morphism${\it\phi}:X\rightarrow X$, a point${\it\alpha}\in X$, and a Zariski-closed subset$V$of$X$, we show that the forward${\it\phi}$-orbit of${\it\alpha}$meets$V$in at most finitely many infinite arithmetic progressions, and the remaining points lie in a set of Banach density zero. This may be viewed as a weak asymptotic version of the dynamical Mordell–Lang conjecture for affine varieties. The results hold in arbitrary characteristic, and the proof uses methods of ergodic theory applied to compact Berkovich spaces.
THE ILLUMINATION AND PATRONAGE OF THE DOUCE APOCALYPSE
Authors: Binski Paul
Published: July 2014

This note identifies illuminations by the hand responsible for the initial to the French text at the start of the Douce Apocalypse; the artist appears to have worked on commissions linked to Oxford. It is suggested that the internal evidence of the Douce manuscript points to a change of patron in the course of its production after the illustrated Latin text was largely completed, and that it may have been begun for King Henry III and then given to the Lord Edward or Eleanor of Castile, who are shown in the opening initial, before about 1270.
Positive associations between infections ofToxoplasma gondiiand seropositivity withAnisakis simplexin human patients suffering from chronic urticaria
Authors: Fernández-Fígares V. , Rodero M. , Valls A. , De Frutos C. , Daschner A. , Cuéllar C.
Published: July 2014

Toxoplasma gondiiis a food-borne and orofecal microorganism which produces chronic infection, and attempts have been made to prove its negative association with atopy in the context of the hygiene hypothesis.Anisakis simplexis a fish parasite associated with chronic urticaria (CU) in endemic regions. We analysed the relationship between both infectious agents in CU. We included 42 patients with chronic urticaria (18 patients with CU associated withA. simplexsensitization and 24 not sensitized CU patients). Patients were assessed for atopy by a skin prick test (SPT) against common aeroallergens and for respiratory symptoms.Anisakis simplexsensitization was assessed by SPT and specific IgE by CAP fluoro-enzyme immunoassay (CAP-FEIA). Anti-T. gondiiIgG levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). CU patients were analysed with respect toT. gondiiseropositivity,A. simplexsensitization, atopy and immigrant status. The seroprevalence ofT. gondiiwas 40.5% in CU patients and 42.1% in the control group. Immigrants were more frequently infected byT. gondii(41.2% versus 12%;P =0.036). Anti-T. gondiiIgG antibodies were associated with pastA. simplexparasitism (odds ratio 6.73;P =0.03) and independently with atopic sensitization (odds ratio 5.85;P =0.04). In CU patients,T. gondiihas no protective effect on atopic sensitization orA. simplexsensitization.
A longitudinal study of cortical changes and their cognitive correlates in patients followed up after first-episode psychosis
Authors: Gutiérrez-Galve L. , Chu E. M. , Leeson V. C. , Price G. , Barnes T. R. E. , Joyce E. M. , Ron M. A.
Published: July 2014

Background

Loss of cortical volume in frontotemporal regions occurs in patients with first-episode psychosis (FEP) and longitudinal studies have reported progressive brain volume changes at different stages of the disease, even if cognitive deficits remain stable over time. We investigated cortical changes in patients over the 2 years following their FEP and their associations with clinical and cognitive measures.

Method

Twenty-seven patients after their FEP (20 with schizophrenia, seven with schizo-affective disorder) and 25 healthy controls matched for age and gender participated in this study. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on a 1.5-T scanner both at baseline and after 2 years. Area and thickness of the cortex were measured using surface-based morphometry (SBM). Patients also underwent neuropsychological testing at these two time points.

Results

Progressive cortical thinning in the superior and inferior frontal and, to a lesser extent, superior temporal cortex was observed in patients. Cortical area remained constant. Cortical thinning was associated with duration of treatment at a trend level and was predicted by baseline measures of IQ and working memory. Cortical thinning occurred in the absence of clinical or cognitive deterioration.

Conclusions

The clinical implications of these cortical changes remain uncertain, but patients with less cognitive reserve may be more vulnerable to developing cortical abnormalities when exposed to medication or other disease-related biological factors.
Atmospheric deposition versus rock weathering in the control of streamwater chemistry in a tropical rain-forest catchment in Malaysian Borneo
Authors: Yamashita Naoyuki , Sase Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Ryo , Leong Kok-Peng , Hanapi Jamil Mohd , Uchiyama Shigeki , Urban Siniarovina , Toh Ying Ying , Muhamad Maznorizan , Gidiman Jikos , Chappell Nick A.
Published: July 2014

Uncertainty about the H+ buffering capacity in tropical rain forest limits our ability to predict the future effect of anthropogenic deposition on the streamwater chemistry. Export of major ions to the stream and the ion-fluxes via rainfall, throughfall, litter-leachate and soil-water pathways were observed to examine the source of streamwater nutrients in a small catchment in Sabah, Malaysia. The streamwater and the ion-fluxes were measured for 3.75 and 2 y, respectively, by collecting water twice a month and setting ion-exchange-resin columns. Streamwater pH ranged from 6.5 to 7.6 and was not sensitive to water discharge controlling base cations. The NO3−-N, Ca2+ and Mg2+ fluxes were low in atmospheric depositions (0.6, 0.5 and 0.3 kg ha−1 y−1, respectively) and markedly increased in the litter layer. The NO3−-N flux decreased drastically from subsoil (70 kg ha−1 y−1) to the stream (1.4 kg ha−1 y−1) whereas the Ca2+ and Mg2+ fluxes were not different between subsoil (38 and 18 kg ha−1 y−1) and stream (30 and 15 kg ha−1 y−1). Neutral pH in tropical streams was mainly due to the base cation leaching with deep chemical weathering in deeper strata, and a rapid decrease in NO3− leaching from the subsoil to the stream.
Tuberculosis in women from Pashtun region: an ecological study in Pakistan
Authors: SHAH S. K. , DOGAR O. F. , SIDDIQI K.
Published: July 2014

In general, tuberculosis (TB) is more common in men than women. However, for reasons currently not understood, women are 1·5–2 times more likely to report TB compared to men in Pashtun region (Afghanistan, adjacent provinces Pakistan and Iran). We explored whether or not gender disparity in TB notifications in the Pashtun region of Pakistan can be explained by Pashtun ethnicity. Using an ecological linear regression design, we estimated the effect of Pashtun ethnicity on female-to-male ratio (FMR) in TB notifications after adjusting for other determinants of women's health, in Pakistan. Districts with a high proportion of women of Pashtun ethnicity had a 44% (95% confidence interval 27–61) increase in FMR of notified TB cases compared to those with low proportions, after controlling for confounders. Genetic predisposition and distinct socio-cultural determinants could be possible causative factors. However, these hypotheses need further evaluation through rigorous longitudinal studies.
First polar body morphology affects potential development of porcine parthenogenetic embryo in vitro
Authors: Hu Junhe , Jin Chenzhong , Zheng Hui , Liu Qinyan , Zhu Wenbing , Zeng Zhi , Wu Juan , Wang Yang , Li Jie , Zhang Xuejiao , Liu Xianglin , Zhao Jian
Published: July 2014

Previous studies have reported that the first polar body (PB1) morphology reflects embryo development competence, but the effects of PB1 on porcine embryo development remain unknown. This study aims to determine whether the ability of porcine embryo development is related to oocytes’ PB1 in vitro. The distribution of type II cortical granules (CGs) of porcine matured oocytes in grade B PB1 is significantly greater compared with those in grades A and C PB1 (71.43% versus 52.46% and 50%; P < 0.05). The ratio of porcine parthenogenetic blastocysts and the mean cell number in each blastocyst in the group with grade B PB1 is significantly greater than that with grades A and C PB1 (30.81% vs. 19.02% and 15.15%; P < 0.05) and (36.67 versus 24.67, 28.67; P < 0.05), and no significant differences are found in the embryo cleavage for all groups (79.75%, 84.30%, and 78.18% in grades A, B, and C PB1; P > 0.05). The acetylation level of porcine embryos in the group with grade B PB1 is significantly greater compared with those in the other groups (P < 0.05), and is almost 2.5 times higher than that in grade A. Therefore, porcine oocytes with PB1 in grade B are more competitive in cytoplasmic maturation and further embryo development in vitro.
Spermatozoa isolated from cat testes retain their structural integrity as well as a developmental potential after refrigeration for up to 7 days
Authors: Buarpung Sirirak , Tharasanit Theerawat , Thongkittidilok Chommanart , Comizzoli Pierre , Techakumphu Mongkol
Published: July 2014

The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of preservation media for isolated feline testicular spermatozoa as well as the concentrations of bovine serum albumin (BSA) on: (1) the membrane (sperm membrane integrity (SMI)) and DNA integrity of spermatozoa; and (2) the developmental potential of spermatozoa after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Isolated cat spermatozoa were stored in HEPES-M199 medium (HM) or Dulbecco's phosphate-buffered saline (DPBS) at 4°C for up to 7 days. Results indicated that HM maintained a better SMI than DPBS throughout the storage periods (P > 0.05). When spermatozoa were stored in HM supplemented with BSA at different concentrations (4, 8 or 16 mg/ml), SMI obtained from HM containing 8 and 16 mg/ml BSA was higher than with 4 mg/ml BSA (P < 0.05). DNA integrity of spermatozoa stored in HM with 16 mg/ml BSA for 7 days was poorer than that of the fresh control, but the subsequent percentages of cleavage, morula, blastocyst produced by ICSI, as well as their average blastomere numbers of blastocysts, were similar (P > 0.05). In summary, cat spermatozoa immediately isolated from testicular tissue can be stored as a suspension in basic buffered medium at 4°C for up to 7 days. BSA supplementation into the medium improves membrane integrity of the spermatozoa during cold storage. Testicular spermatozoa stored in HM containing 16 mg/ml BSA retained full in vitro developmental potential after ICSI, similar to that of fresh controls even though DNA integrity had slightly declined.
Shining a light on fossil fuel subsidies at the WTO: how NGOs can contribute to WTO notification and surveillance
Authors: CASIER LIESBETH , FRASER ROBIN , HALLE MARK , WOLFE ROBERT
Published: July 2014

Fossil fuel subsidies undermine efforts to mitigate climate change, and they damage the trading system. Multilateral discussion is hampered by inconsistent definitions and incomplete data, which could increase the risks of WTO disputes. Members do not notify such subsidies as much as they should under the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (ASCM), which limits the usefulness of the SCM Committee. The reports of the Trade Policy Review Mechanism on individual countries and on the trading system draw on a wider range of sources, creating an opportunity for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to provide the missing data from publicly available sources. We suggest a new template that could be used for such third-party notifications. The objective is to shine a light on all fossil fuel subsidies that cause market distortions, especially trade distortions. The result should be better, more comparable data for the Secretariat, governments, and researchers, providing the basis for better-informed discussion of the incidence of fossil fuel subsidies and rationale for their use.
Family evaluation of hospice care: Examining direct and indirect associations with overall satisfaction and caregiver confidence
Authors: Holland Jason M. , Keene Jennifer R. , Kirkendall Abbie , Luna Nora
Published: July 2014

Objective:

The Family Evaluation of Hospice Care (FEHC) survey is widely employed by hospices, and several studies have examined this information to help inform and enhance end-of-life services. However, these studies have largely focused on examining relatively straightforward associations between variables and have not tested larger models that could reveal more complex effects. The present study aimed to examine the direct and mediating (i.e., via information/education, patient care, and family support) effects of demographic factors, length of stay, timing of referral, patient symptom severity, location of services, and relationship to caregiver on two outcome variables: overall satisfaction and caregiver confidence.

Method:

Surveys were collected from 3226 participants who had lost a loved one who received hospice services. Structural equation modeling was employed to examine the direct and mediating effects of the independent variables on the two outcomes of interest.

Results:

Participants reporting on racial minority patients, patients with more symptoms, and those referred too late or too early were the most likely to express some discontentment with hospice services. The information/education these individuals received was the only mediating factor significantly associated with caregiver confidence. More positive perceptions of patient care and information/education were both significantly related to greater overall satisfaction.

Significance of Results:

These findings help to (1) pinpoint those most at risk for being less satisfied with hospice, (2) identify which aspects of care may be most strongly related to overall outcomes, and (3) provide a model for examining complex associations among FEHC variables that may be employed by other researchers.
Struggling to find meaning in life among spouses of people with ALS
Authors: Ozanne Anneli O. , Graneheim Ulla H. , Strang Susann
Published: July 2014

Objective:

The aim of this study was to illuminate experiences of finding meaning in life among spouses of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Method:

Thirteen interviews were analyzed with qualitative content analysis.

Results:

The spouses were struggling for meaning at the end of a dark tunnel. They felt limited and isolated in their proximity to death. They lived imprisoned lives, felt lonely, considered life to be unfair and incomplete, and mourned the loss of their future. However, they found meaning despite the proximity of death through cherishing their own lives, fellowship, accepting the present, and believing in meaning after the partner's death.

Significance of results:

Meaning in life strengthened spouses' well-being and ability to find pleasure in a difficult situation. It also strengthened their will to live after the partner's death. Limitations and isolations were strong predictors of what could impair their well-being and the possibility of finding meaning after the partner's death. Spouses need individual support throughout the disease process and after the partner's death, to give them the strength to find meaning in life and prioritize what is important for them. Paying attention to what might prevent them from finding meaning could make it easier to help them in their situation. Providing joint support to the patient and spouse might also help them to see each other's situation, come together, and help each other.
Experiences of cognitive behavioural therapy formulation in clients with depression
Authors: Kahlon Sandeep , Neal Adrian , Patterson Tom G.
Published: July 2014

While clinicians have described the benefits of using formulations within therapy, little is understood about the client's experience of the formulation process. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is currently the treatment of choice for many adult mental health difficulties. However, research exploring clients’ experiences of CBT formulation is very limited. The present study set out to explore experiences of CBT formulation in clients with depression. Seven participants were interviewed and the data analysed using Thematic Analysis. The analysis identified key themes such as: ‘Feeling trapped or restricted by depression’, ‘The development of the formulation – from coming to my own conclusions to something the therapist developed’, ‘From negative to mixed feelings: emotional reactions to the formulation during the therapeutic process’ and ‘A new journey: towards making a new sense of oneself’. The results of the study highlight the personal and emotional challenge of the formulation process for clients.
I. ‘Street of Twins’: Multiple Births in Cuba II. The Cuban Twin Registry: An Update / Twin Research Reports: Cord Entanglement; Heritability of Clubfoot; School Separation / Twins and Twin Researchers in the News: Reunited at Seventy-Eight; Basketball Duo Dissolved; Delivered Holding Hands; The Better Brew; Award Winners
Authors: Segal Nancy L. , Marcheco-Teruel Beatriz
Published: July 2014

I was part of a people-to-people tour of Havana, Cuba during the first week in April 2014. Among the many highlights of that adventure were an informal meeting with Dr Beatriz Marcheco-Teruel, from Cuba's National Center for Medical Genetics, and a visit to the famous ‘Street of Twins’. A fortuitous meeting with parents of twins in the fishing town of Jaimanitas was also an extraordinary event. The Cuban experience is followed by summaries of recent twin research, covering umbilical cord entanglement, the heritability of clubfoot and school separation policies for twins. Media reports include twins reunited at age 78, the future of UCLA's twin basketball players, MZ twins born holding hands, a twin conflict over beer and a pair of American Psychological Association honors for Drs Nancy L. Segal and Thomas J. Bouchard, Jr.
Growth arrest and forced differentiation of human primary glioblastoma multiforme by a novel small molecule
Authors: Kang Tae-Wook , Choi Soon Won , Yang Se-Ran , Shin Tae-Hoon , Kim Hyung-Sik , Yu Kyung-Rok , Hong In-Sun , Ro Seonggu , Cho Joong Myung , Kang Kyung-Sun
Published: July 2014

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most common malignant brain tumor in adults, with an average survival of less than one year due to its resistance to therapy. Recent studies reported that GBM initiates from CD133-expressing cancer stem cells (CSC). However, the efficacy of CSC targeting is limited. A newly developed approach in cancer treatment is the forced differentiation of cancer cells. Here, we show that the treatment of the novel small molecule, CG500354, into CD133-expressing human primary GBM cells induces growth arrest by cell cycle regulators, p53, p21, p27 and phase-specific cyclins and neural differentiation, as confirmed by neural progenitor/precursor markers, nestin, GFAP and Tuj1. When GBM-derived cells caused the tumors in NOD/SCID mice, CG500354 induced GBM-derived cells differentiation into Tuj1 and GFAP expressing cells. We next demonstrated that CG500354 plays a tumor-suppressive role via cAMP/CREB signaling pathway. CG500354 increases not only the extracellular cAMP level but also the protein level of PKA and CREB. Additionally, both mimetic substances, Forskolin and Rolipram, revealed comparable results with CG500354. Our findings indicate that induction of growth arrest and neural differentiation via cAMP/CREB signaling pathway by CG500354 treatment suggests the novel targeting of PDE4D in the development of new drugs for brain tumor therapy.
A kinetically protected pyrene: molecular design, bright blue emission in the crystalline state and aromaticity relocation in its dicationic species
Authors: Matsumoto Akinobu , Suzuki Mitsuharu , Kuzuhara Daiki , Yuasa Junpei , Kawai Tsuyoshi , Aratani Naoki , Yamada Hiroko
Published: July 2014

The aromaticity of sterically congested tetranaphthylpyrene relocates from the biphenyl part to the naphthalene unit upon the two-electron oxidation.
Hierarchical growth of curved organic nanowires upon evaporation induced self-assembly
Authors: Li Bing , Puigmartí-Luis Jiosep , Jonas Alain M. , Amabilino David B. , De Feyter Steven
Published: July 2014

Hierarchical growth of multilayers and complex curved nanostructures including nanospirals and concentric nanorings upon evaporation of a solution.
Stereoselective construction of a key hydroindole precursor of epidithiodiketopiperazine (ETP) natural products
Authors: Feng Minghao , Jiang Xuefeng
Published: July 2014

The functionalized hexahydroindole scaffold of ETPs was constructed by an asymmetric strategy involving a diastereoselective inverse electron-demand Diels–Alder (IEDDA) reaction.