bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of osmocote fertilizers on growth and nutrient status of Carex buchananii Berggr.
Authors: Henschke Monika , Wojciechowska Ewelina , Błaszyk Agnieszka , Araszkiewicz Katarzyna
Published: April 2015

An experiment on the effect of Osmocote fertilizers on growth and nutrient status of Carex buchananii was conducted in the years 2008–2009. Carex buchananii is a dense-tufted sedge growing up to 60 cm in height, with very narrow, stiff, red, copper and olive colored leaves throughout the season. Plants were grown in a greenhouse in pots with peat substrate for 18 weeks. The differentiating factors included the type of fertilizer, i.e. Exact Standard 16:11:11 and Osmocote Exact High Start 11:11:19, and fertilizer application rates of 2 and 4 g dm−3, the phase of growth, i.e. 1 to 9 weeks and 9 to 18 weeks of culture. The greatest increment in the tuft circumference of C. buchananii was recorded in the first 9 weeks of culture, while that of the fresh weight of aboveground parts – in the period from 9 to 18 weeks. The application of Osmocote Exact High Start at 4 g dm−3 in the culture of C. buchananii resulted in the production of the desired quality of the plants with a greater tuft circumference and shorter leaves. It was shown that best quality plants contained in their aboveground parts the following amounts of macronutrients and sodium (g kg−1): N – 18.9, P – 3.5, K – 37.2, Ca – 5.8, Mg – 3.0, and Na – 0.3.
The diversity of diatom assemblages developed on fallow soil in Pogórska Wola near Tarnów (southern Poland)
Authors: Stanek-Tarkowska Jadwiga , Noga Teresa , Kochman-Kędziora Natalia , Peszek Łukasz , Pajączek Anita , Kozak Edyta
Published: April 2015

The aim of this work was to investigate the species diversity of diatoms growing on fallow fields on loose sand. The study site was located in the western part of Pogórska Wola near Tarnów (southern Poland). Samples were collected from fallow land once a month from April to December 2011. 57 diatom taxa from 19 different genera were found. The most numerous genera were Fragilaria (8) and Luticola (7). The highest species richness was observed in December, November and July, while the highest values of species diversity (Shannon–Wiener index) were recorded between August and October. Four taxa – Pinnularia borealis Ehrenb. var. borealis, Stauroneis borrichii (Petersen) Lund, Hantzschia amphioxys (Ehrenb.) Grunow, and Luticola nivalis (Ehrenb.) D.G. Mann, were found to be the dominant species. Neutral species (a pH of about 7) dominated in all months (from April to December), reaching an over 90% share in the assemblage. In terms of nitrogen content, nitrogen-autotrophic taxa, tolerating an elevated concentration of organically bound nitrogen, occurred most abundantly, as was indicated by the low content of nitrogen in the soil.
O acolhimento e o Núcleo de Apoio à Saúde da Família no município do Rio de Janeiro: fragmentos, perspectivas e reflexões
Authors: Da Silva Tarciso Feijó , Romano Valéria Ferreira
Published: April 2015

Objetivos: identificar a percepção de diferentes categorias profissionais da área da saúde sobre o acolhimento e sobre o trabalho do Núcleo de Apoio à Saúde da Família (NASF) e analisar o modo como esses mesmos profissionais realizam o acolhimento. Métodos: abordagem qualitativa com utilização de técnicas de observação sistemática e entrevistas semiestruturadas com profissionais de duas Unidades Básicas de Saúde do município do Rio de Janeiro. Os dados foram analisados considerando as referências de Bardin, a partir da Análise de Conteúdo, onde as inferências são valorizadas. Resultados: foram observadas fragilidades importantes relacionadas ao acolhimento e um NASF pouco envolvido com o desenvolvimento de competências da equipe. Conclusão: o acolhimento, enquanto dispositivo que contribui para garantia do acesso, ampliação da clínica e aumento da resolutividade, foi visto como essencial para produção do cuidado, e o NASF, na medida em que qualifica as ações, como potente ferramenta de gestão.
Obstetrizes e enfermeiras obstetras no Sistema Único de Saúde e na Atenção Primária à Saúde: por uma incorporação sistêmica e progressiva
Authors: Norman Armando Henrique , Tesser Charles Dalcanale
Published: April 2015

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar uma proposta de incorporação gradual e sistêmica das obstetrizes e enfermeiras obstetras ao Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) e à Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS). A proposta nasceu do contato com a experiência britânica, baseada nas midwives, brevemente descrita. No Brasil, essas profissionais realizariam progressivamente a atenção ao pré-natal, parto e puerpério imediato de risco habitual das gestantes de determinada região, em parceria com as equipes da APS. Assim, poderia ser estabelecido um nicho próprio de realização, monitoramento e avaliação desse cuidado, baseado no ciclo vital específico de cuidados contínuos com as gestantes, em estreita relação com a APS. Existem condições técnicas e institucionais favoráveis para o desenvolvimento desse tipo de proposta, necessitando-se superar os entraves políticos. Sua concretização é uma estratégia potente para a redução dos altos índices de violência obstétrica, especialmente as expressivas taxas de cesáreas no Brasil, contribuindo para a humanização do parto no SUS.
Parasitoses intestinais: o que a comunidade sabe sobre este tema?
Authors: Busato Maria Assunta , Dondoni Daniele Zanoni , Rinaldi Alécio Leonardo dos Santos , Ferraz Lucimare
Published: April 2015

As enteroparasitoses constituem um importante problema de saúde pública, contribuindo para as taxas de morbimortalidade devido a doenças infecto-parasitárias em todo o mundo. Objetivo: conhecer as atitudes e percepções da comunidade a respeito de parasitoses intestinais. Métodos: foi aplicado um questionário semiestruturado a 72 pessoas entre 18 e 70 anos para identificar o que elas conheciam sobre parasitoses intestinais. Resultados: a medida de prevenção mais utilizada foi higiene pessoal (77,7%), e 66,6% dos respondentes concordaram que os vermes contaminam o meio-ambiente. Os sintomas mais citados foram dor de barriga e coceira e 72,2% mencionaram que procuram um médico quando suspeitam de contaminação. Conclusão: os resultados mostram uma forma simplificada de conhecimento, baseada no cotidiano da população, sendo esses achados úteis para o planejamento de futuras campanhas e projetos educacionais.
Successful Aging and Frailty: Mutually Exclusive Paradigms or Two Ends of a Shared Continuum?
Authors: Cosco Theodore D. , Armstrong Joshua J. , Stephan Blossom C.M. , Brayne Carol
Published: April 2015

The conceptualization of positive and negative states of aging is contentious at the inter- and intraparadigm level; lack of consensus exists within and between states. Working within their respective paradigms, successful aging and frailty researchers may have lost sight of the larger picture. Are successful aging researchers describing nonfrail individuals? Are frailty researchers describing unsuccessful aging? It is imperative that researchers are cognizant of the ways in which their perspectives are contextualized within the literature and within related paradigms, so as to be able to clearly communicate their research and to ensure they are working within the appropriate paradigm to facilitate desired outcomes. Here we discuss the similarities and differences between successful aging and frailty in terms of the scope and emphasis of their constituent components and functioning: both SA and frailty include biomedical components; SA examines the high end, whilst frailty predominately examines the low end of the functioning spectrum. Frailty models emphasize the biomedical realm, whilst SA models emphasize both the biomedical and the psychosocial.
Early Commercial Assessments: An Innovative Tactic for Small Biotechs
Authors: Giovinazzo Anthony
Published: April 2015

As a small biotech company embarks on a drug development program, there is a tendency for management to focus on a well-defined set of issues. Is the science behind the drug valid? Does it solve an interesting problem or unmet need? What are the prospects that the medical community and patients will embrace it as a valuable new solution? And what is the range of indications the drug is conceived as addressing? These are all valid questions, but a small biotech can do even more to prepare itself for the drug development process, which is a journey that can take many years and cost a significant amount of money.Â
Does Meaning in Life Predict Psychological Well-Being?: An Analysis Using the Spanish Versions of the Purpose-In-Life Test and the Ryff’s Scales
Authors: García-Alandete Joaquín
Published: April 2015

This paper analyzes the relationship between meaning in life and psychological well-being in a sample of 180 Spanish undergraduates (138 women, 76.7%; 42 men, 23.3%) aged 18-55, M = 22.91, SD = 6.71. Spanish versions of Crumbaugh and Maholic’s Purpose-In-Life Test and Ryff's Psychological Well-Being Scales were used. Analysis included descriptive statistics, the scales were tested for internal consistency, and correlations were analysed with simple linear regression. The results showed a significant relationship between meaning in life and psychological well-being dimensions, in terms of covariance and prediction, especially with global Psychological Well-Being, Self-Acceptation, Environmental Mastery, and Positive Relations. We conclude that the experience of meaning in life is important for psychological well-being.
A Positive Psychology Intervention With Emerging Adults
Authors: Leontopoulou Sophie
Published: April 2015

This study assessed the impact of a positive psychology intervention in a sample of 40 young men (35%) and women (65%) aged 18-30 years. Participants were 1st and 4th year undergraduate University students, postgraduate students and working youths. The study examined the effects of a battery of interventions commonly used in positive psychology interventions, including a video and three exercises (i.e. expressing gratitude, best possible selves, goal setting) on character strengths, hope, gratitude and social relations. Intervention activities were carried out during a session that lasted an hour and a half, while a further half-hour evaluation session took place after a two-week interval. Marked positive changes were revealed with regards to youths’ well-being as a result of the intervention. In particular, elevated levels of hope, perceptions of social support and ability to handle social stress successfully, as well as levels of three out of six key character strengths, i.e. courage, humanity/love and transcendence were observed. Influences of demographic and socio-psychological characteristics of youths on the above variables; constellations of intricate relations between them; as well as certain developmental patterns were also highlighted. The repercussions of the above findings for the advancement of positive psychology knowledge and interventions are discussed.
Long-Term Results of Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Crohn's Fistula
Authors: Cho Yong Beom , Park Kyu Joo , Yoon Sang Nam , Song Kee Ho , Kim Do Sun , Jung Sang Hun , Kim Mihyung , Jeong Hee Young , Yu Chang Sik
Published: April 2015

A previous phase II clinical trial of adipose-derived stem cell (ASC) therapy for fistulae associated with Crohn's disease, a devastating condition with a high recurrence rate, demonstrated safety and therapeutic potential with a 1-year sustained response. In the present study, 41 of the 43 phase II trial patients were followed for an additional year, regardless of response in the initial year. At 24 months, complete healing was observed in 21 of 26 patients (80.8%) in modified per protocol analysis and 27 of 36 patients (75.0%) in modified intention-to-treat analysis. No adverse events related to ASC administration were observed. Furthermore, complete closure after initial treatment was well-sustained. These results strongly suggest that autologous ASCs may be a novel treatment option for Crohn's fistulae.

Significance

Long-term follow-up of patients with Crohn's fistula found that one or two doses of autologous adipose-derived stem cell therapy achieved complete closure in 80% of the patients at 12 months. After 24 months, 75% of those patients sustained complete closure, showing sustainable safety and efficacy of the treatment.
Análisis de la utilización de estrategias en el aprendizaje de la lengua extranjera
Authors: García Herrero Mª de las Mercedes
Published: April 2015

El presente artículo pretende analizar el uso de las estrategias de aprendizaje de la lengua extranjera por parte de estudiantes universitarios ya titulados. Los principales objetivos del estudio son: 1) Analizar la frecuencia de utilización de las categorías de estrategias y 2) Determinar la frecuencia de uso de las estrategias individuales que conforman cada categoría.

Los resultados indican que los estudiantes tienden a utilizar las estrategias Metacognitivas seguidas por las estrategias Afectivas presentando ambas una frecuencia de uso alto. Los aprendices aplican por este orden las distintas categorías: Compensación, Cognitivas, Sociales y de Memorización.

 
Are discourse comprehension and cognitive processes influenced by the type of language language (English and Spanish)? A cross-language study based on elaborative inferences generation
Authors: Escudero Domínguez Inmaculada , León José A. , Morera Yurena
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to determine whether discourse comprehension processes,  focusing on the type of inferences activated during reading, would be influenced by the language (English and Spanish) as supported by linguistic relativity theories. 20 U.S. and 20 Spanish undergraduates took part in this study using a think-aloud task. The results suggest that inference generation was not restricted by language differences. In contrast, these data support the idea that inference activation reflects a universal cognitive processes pattern
Rendimiento en matemáticas y actitud hacia la materia en centros inclusivos: estudio en la comunidad de Madrid
Authors: García-García Mercedes , Biencinto-López Chantal , Carpintero-Molina Mª Elvira , Núñez-del-Río María Cristina , Arteaga Martínez Blanca
Published: April 2015

Este artículo aborda el problema del bajo rendimiento en matemáticas desde la Teoría Adaptativa. Se parte del supuesto de que una escuela consciente de la diversidad en las aulas planificará estrategias educativas adaptadas a las diferencias de los estudiantes, logrando mejores resultados que los centros que proyectan únicamente para el grupo. Mediante un diseño de investigación cuasiexperimental, se comparan tres tipos de intervención diferenciada en función del grado de inclusividad de sus proyectos. La muestra la conforman 437 estudiantes de 2º de ESO de distintos centros de la Comunidad de Madrid, que realizaron pruebas de rendimiento matemático y respondieron una escala de actitud hacia la materia. Se realizó un análisis de contraste pretest-posttest a través de t de Student, ANOVA, ANCOVA y la prueba de rangos con signos de Wilcoxon. Los resultados muestran diferencias en el rendimiento en matemáticas a favor de los centros inclusivos, sin mejora en la actitud hacia la materia.
Juegos deportivos y emociones. Propiedades psicométricas de la escala GES para ser aplicada en la Educación Física y el Deporte
Authors: Lavega Burgués Pere , March Llanes Jaume , Filella Guiu Gemma
Published: April 2015

El objetivo de este estudio fue validar la escala juegos deportivos y emociones (GES), basada en tres tipos de emociones: positivas, negativas y ambiguas, en las 4 situaciones de juegos deportivos correspondientes a diferentes dominios de acción motriz. El trabajo se realizó con 851 estudiantes universitarios en ciencias de la actividad física y del deporte de 4 universidades españolas, 1 inglesa y 1 portuguesa.

El GES presentó una correcta fiabilidad mostrando valores adecuados de consistencia interna. Se obtuvo un buena validez de constructo que confirmó la estructura factorial del cuestionario en los 3 tipos de emociones y demostró la necesidad de diferenciar entre los 4 dominios de acción motriz. La validez convergente mostró buenos resultados al comparar el GES y el cuestionario Profile of moods states (POMS). La validez de contenido confirmó que la estructura del GES es adecuada para estudiar la relación entre juegos deportivos y emociones. En conclusión, el cuestionario ha demostrado su validez y fiabilidad para registrar la intensidad de las emociones en la práctica de juegos deportivos.
Análisis de las actitudes, De los jóvenes trabajadores del sector textil hacia la discapacidad: diferencias por razón de género
Authors: Muñoz-Cantero Jesús Miguel , Novo-Corti Isabel , Rebollo-Quintela Nuria
Published: April 2015

En esta investigación se estudia el apoyo a la inclusión de trabajadores con discapacidad en el entorno laboral en base al género, para lo cual se ha elegido una muestra al azar de 123 trabajadores pertenecientes al sector textil de ambos sexos. Se ha utilizado la Teoría del Comportamiento Planeado (TPB) como modelo teórico de referencia. Los resultados alcanzados muestran una tendencia contraria en el entorno laboral a la apreciada en los estudios de Alonso, Navarro y Vicente (2008) y Novo-Corti, Muñoz-Cantero y Calvo-Porral (2011) sobre las actitudes de inclusión en el entorno escolar. De los datos analizados podemos deducir que la intención de apoyo a la inclusión se encuentra condicionada por el control percibido y que la variable género es una variable relevante para explicarla.
Evaluación de las competencias de los estudiantes: modelos y técnicas para la valoración. Assessment of the competences of students: models and valuation techniques.
Authors: Medina Rivilla Antonio , Domínguez Garrido Mª Concepción , Sánchez Romero Cristina
Published: April 2015

Un aspecto esencial que atañe a los modelos educativos innovadores en el escenario europeo son las competencias, situadas como un horizonte básico para la formación de los estudiantes, a la vez que polémico para quienes estiman que la formación de los universitarios ha de ser más extensa e intensa que la adquisición de tales competencias genéricas y profesionales, pero éstas son necesarias en el planteamiento, al consolidarse como una síntesis pertinente, de aspectos formativos y ser consideradas un componente esencial de los modelos de educación continua, orientados al aprendizaje a lo largo de la vida. Esta investigación evolutiva, aplicada a diferentes grupos de estudiantes, ha consolidado el modelo, métodos y situaciones de evaluación de las competencias de los discentes; que se han trabajado durante un período de tres años y afianzado el dominio de aquellas cuando se integran en un proyecto de vida y práctica profesional.
Decreased warfarin effects in elder with recurrent Clostridium difficile infection during fidaxomicin therapy: a case report
Authors: Buonuomo Antonio Riccardo , Foggia Maria Alessandra , Zappulo Emanuela , Borgia Guglielmo , Gentile Ivan
Published: April 2015

Clostridium difficile infection is a disease with increasing incidence, particularly in high‑riskpatients such as the elderly, immunocompromised patients, etc.We report an unexpected decrease of International Normalized Ratio (INR) response to warfarin during a first recurrence of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) treated with fidaxomicin. The patient, an old man who has prosthetic heart valves on anticoagulation therapy with warfarin, was treated with an association of vancomycin plus metronidazole for a first episode of CDI. Patient remained symptom‑free for few days and then he presented with recurrent diarrhea. A retreatment with vancomycin and metronidazole didn’t resolve symptoms of CDI, therefore he underwent fidaxomicin treatment for 10 days, with rapid resolution of diarrhea. In the meantime, warfarin effects diminished, and only with increases of dosage INR therapeutic range was achieved few days after discontinuing fidaxomicin. According to product information, fidaxomicin doesn’t interfere with warfarin. The authors highlight the different plausible mechanisms to explain the association between the unexpected decreased effect of warfarin and factors that could have influenced such event. The frequent update of product information through good pharmacovigilance practices could help clinicians in the management of unexpected events.
Processus de contextualisation et développement de la compétence scripturale de justification d’élèves du premier cycle du secondaire
Authors: Forget Marie-Hélène
Published: April 2015

Une recherche doctorale qualitative et exploratoire portant sur l’apprentissage de l’écriture de justifications en classe de français chez des élèves plurilingues de 12 à 14 ans a révélé des liens entre la contextualisation qu’effectue un élève d’une situation d’écriture et sa manière d’élaborer le propos de sa justification. En effet, selon que l’élève tienne compte des paramètres de la situation fictive d’écriture ou qu’il focalise plutôt son attention sur les exigences scolaires, il parviendra plus ou moins bien à tenir compte de la dimension dialogique inhérente au discours justificatif. Cet article illustre ces liens à partir d’extraits d’entretiens et met en évidence des besoins d’apprentissage liés à ce processus de contextualisation qui, s’il est bien mené, soutient l’élève dans le développement de sa compétence scripturale de justification.
S’adapter au rôle professionnel lorsqu’on est enseignant de migration récente au Québec : expérience, défis et facteurs de réussite
Authors: Niyubahwe Aline , Mukamurera Joséphine , Jutras France
Published: April 2015

Cet article présente les résultats d’une recherche qualitative phénoménologique dont l’objectif est de décrire et de comprendre l’expérience d’adaptation au rôle professionnel des enseignants de migration récente dans le contexte scolaire québécois. À partir de données d’entrevues semi-dirigées réalisées auprès de 13 enseignants de migration récente des régions de Montréal et de Sherbrooke, l’analyse montre qu’ils ont traversé une période de déstabilisation et de perte de repères par rapport au rôle professionnel. Une fois le choc de la réalité passé, ils ont réappris peu à peu le métier et développé des stratégies d’adaptation qui les ont conduits à modifier leurs pratiques pédagogiques et à développer un rapport positif au système éducatif québécois. Le soutien et la collaboration de l’équipe-école constituent des facteurs favorables à leur adaptation.
Des modes d’interaction au coeur de la mise en oeuvre d’une évaluation formative non instrumentée
Authors: Morrissette Joëlle
Published: April 2015

Cet article rend compte d’une recherche qui a documenté les façons par lesquelles se réalise l’évaluation formative non instrumentée dans l’interaction entre l’enseignant et les élèves au cours des activités en classe. Plus précisément, elle s’est intéressée à comprendre les dynamiques interactives impliquées dans sa mise en oeuvre. À cette fin, des bandes vidéo ont été produites dans les classes de 10 enseignantes du primaire, en alternance avec des entretiens individuels permettant d’expliciter les pratiques. Les résultats font ressortir différents modes d’interaction tels que l’ajustement, la confrontation, la tractation, la séduction et l’humour. Ils donnent à voir que l’évaluation est un lieu privilégié pour la négociation du contrat pédagogique en classe.
CaRuby-Nano: a novel high affinity calcium probe for dual color imaging
Authors: Collot Mayeul , Wilms Christian D , Bentkhayet Asma , Marcaggi Païkan , Couchman Kiri , Charpak Serge , Dieudonné Stéphane , Häusser Michael , Feltz Anne , Mallet Jean-Maurice
Published: April 2015

The great demand for long-wavelength and high signal-to-noise Ca2+ indicators has led us to develop CaRuby-Nano, a new functionalizable red calcium indicator with nanomolar affinity for use in cell biology and neuroscience research. In addition, we generated CaRuby-Nano dextran conjugates and an AM-ester variant for bulk loading of tissue. We tested the new indicator using in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrating the high sensitivity of CaRuby-Nano as well as its power in dual color imaging experiments.
Nrg1 is an injury-induced cardiomyocyte mitogen for the endogenous heart regeneration program in zebrafish
Authors: Gemberling Matthew , Karra Ravi , Dickson Amy L , Poss Kenneth D
Published: April 2015

Heart regeneration is limited in adult mammals but occurs naturally in adult zebrafish through the activation of cardiomyocyte division. Several components of the cardiac injury microenvironment have been identified, yet no factor on its own is known to stimulate overt myocardial hyperplasia in a mature, uninjured animal. In this study, we find evidence that Neuregulin1 (Nrg1), previously shown to have mitogenic effects on mammalian cardiomyocytes, is sharply induced in perivascular cells after injury to the adult zebrafish heart. Inhibition of Erbb2, an Nrg1 co-receptor, disrupts cardiomyocyte proliferation in response to injury, whereas myocardial Nrg1 overexpression enhances this proliferation. In uninjured zebrafish, the reactivation of Nrg1 expression induces cardiomyocyte dedifferentiation, overt muscle hyperplasia, epicardial activation, increased vascularization, and causes cardiomegaly through persistent addition of wall myocardium. Our findings identify Nrg1 as a potent, induced mitogen for the endogenous adult heart regeneration program.
Recognizing the importance of new tools and resources for research
Authors: Schekman Randy , Weigel Detlef , Watt Fiona M
Published: April 2015

eLife is introducing a new article type—called Tools and Resources—to highlight new experimental techniques, datasets, software tools and other resources.
Protein Purification Using PDZ Affinity Chromatography
Authors: Walkup Ward G. , Kennedy Mary B.
Published: April 2015

PDZ domains function in nature as protein‐binding domains within scaffold and membrane‐associated proteins. They comprise approximately 90 residues and undergo specific, high‐affinity interactions with complementary C‐terminal peptide sequences, other PDZ domains, and/or phospholipids. We have previously shown that the specific, strong interactions of PDZ domains with their ligands make them well suited for use in affinity chromatography. This unit provides protocols for the PDZ affinity chromatography procedure that are applicable for the purification of proteins that contain PDZ domains or PDZ domain‐binding ligands, either naturally or introduced by genetic engineering. We detail the preparation of affinity resins composed of PDZ domains or PDZ domain peptide ligands coupled to solid supports. These resins can be used to purify proteins containing endogenous or genetically introduced PDZ domains or ligands, eluting the proteins with free PDZ domain peptide ligands. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Fixation and Immunolabeling of Brain Slices: SNAPSHOT Method
Authors: Dissing‐Olesen Lasse , MacVicar Brian A.
Published: April 2015

Acute brain slices are widely used in neuroscience because this preparation enables pharmacological interventions in a timely manner, similar to what is currently done in cultured cell studies, while preserving the natural cytoarchitecture. However, compared with cells in culture and thin cryostat sections, acute brain slices are not commonly used for immunolabeling because of poor fixation and antibody penetration. Thus, we have established a novel protocol to overcome these issues. We named this protocol SNAPSHOT (StaiNing of dynAmic ProcesseS in HOt‐fixed Tissue) because it describes a simple approach for preserving the morphology of fine dynamic cellular processes at the exact time of fixation and for improving the penetration of antibodies. We have previously shown that SNAPSHOT preserves the ultrastructure of the tissue and allows for a uniform immunolabeling throughout a 300 μm thick slice. SNAPSHOT has recently proven to be beneficial in addressing several unique biological questions. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Diagnosis of Fanconi Anemia by Diepoxybutane Analysis
Authors: Auerbach Arleen D.
Published: April 2015

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous disorder characterized by congenital malformations, progressive bone marrow failure, and predisposition to cancer, particularly hematological malignancies and solid tumors of the head and neck. The main role of FA proteins is in the repair of DNA interstrand crosslinks (ICLs). FA results from pathogenic variants in at least sixteen distinct genes, causing genomic instability. Although the highly variable phenotype makes accurate diagnosis on the basis of clinical manifestations difficult in some patients, diagnosis based on a profound sensitivity to DNA‐crosslinking agents can be used to identify the pre‐anemia patient as well as patients with aplastic anemia or leukemia who may or may not have the physical stigmata associated with the syndrome. Diepoxybutane (DEB) analysis is the preferred test for FA because other agents have higher rates of false‐positive and false‐negative results. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Preparation of Amniocytes for Interphase Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH)
Authors: Schwartz Stuart
Published: April 2015

FISH has been used to detect and clarify deletions and/or other structural rearrangements, and also has applications in interphase analysis. This unit describes preparation of uncultured amniotic fluid cells for FISH analysis. Cells are swollen, and then slides are prepared by standard methods. The cells are then fixed and permeabilized for subsequent FISH. An alternate protocol describes attachment of amniocytes to a glass or plastic surface followed by hypotonic swelling, fixation, and permeabilization for subsequent FISH. Interphase FISH analysis of amniotic fluid cells is also described. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Cell Volume Measurements by Optical Transmission Microscopy
Authors: A. Model Michael
Published: April 2015

Cell volume is an important parameter in cell adaptation to anisosmotic stress, in the development of apoptosis and necrosis, and in the pathogenesis of several diseases. This unit describes a method for measuring the volume of adherent cells using a standard light microscope. A coverslip with attached cells is placed in a shallow chamber in a medium containing a strongly absorbing and cell‐impermeant dye, Acid Blue 9. When such a sample is imaged in transmitted light at a wavelength of maximum dye absorption (630 nm), the resulting contrast quantitatively reflects cell thickness. Once the thickness is known at every point, the volume can be computed as well. Technical details, interpretation of data, and possible artifacts are discussed. Measurements in absolute units require knowledge of the absorption coefficient, and a similar procedure for the measurement of absorption coefficient is described. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
High turnover rates indicated by changes in the fixed N forms and their stable isotopes in Antarctic landfast sea ice
Authors: Fripiat François , Sigman Daniel M. , Massé Guillaume , Tison Jean‐Louis
Published: April 2015

We report concentration and nitrogen and oxygen isotopic measurements of nitrate, total dissolved nitrogen, and particulate nitrogen from Antarctic landfast sea ice, covering almost the complete seasonal cycle of sea ice growth and decay (from April to November). When sea ice forms in autumn, ice algae growth depletes nitrate and accumulates organic N within the ice. Subsequent low biological activity in winter imposes minor variations in the partitioning of fixed N. In early spring, the coupling between nitrate assimilation and brine convection at the sea ice bottom traps a large amount of fixed N within sea ice, up to 20 times higher than in the underlying seawater. At this time, remineralization and nitrification also accelerate, yielding nitrate concentrations up to 5 times higher than in seawater. Nitrate δ15N and δ18O are both elevated, indicating a near‐balance between nitrification and nitrate assimilation. These findings require high microbially mediated turnover rates for the large fixed N pools, including nitrate. When sea ice warms in the spring, ice algae grow through the full thickness of the ice. The warming stratifies the brine network, which limits the exchange with seawater, causing the once‐elevated nitrate pool to be nearly completely depleted. The nitrate isotope data point to light limitation at the base of landfast ice as a central characteristic of the environment, affecting its N cycling (e.g., allowing for nitrification) and impacting algal physiology (e.g., as reflected in the N and O isotope effects of nitrate assimilation).
Evaluation of measurement sensitivity and design improvement for time domain reflectometry penetrometers
Authors: Zhan Tony Liang‐tong , Mu Qing‐yi , Chen Yun‐min , Ke Han
Published: April 2015

The time domain reflectometry (TDR) penetrometer, which can measure both the apparent dielectric permittivity and the bulk electrical conductivity of soils, is an important tool for the site investigation of contaminated land. This paper presents a theoretical method for evaluating the measurement sensitivity and an improved design of the TDR penetrometer. The sensitivity evaluation method is based on a spatial weighting analysis of the electromagnetic field using a seepage analysis software. This method is used to quantify the measurement sensitivity for the three types of TDR penetrometers reported in literature as well as guide the design improvement of the TDR penetrometer. The improved design includes the use of semicircle‐shaped conductors and the optimization of the conductor diameter. The measurement sensitivity to the targeted medium for the improved TDR penetrometer is evaluated to be greater than those of the three types of TDR penetrometers reported in literature. The performance of the improved TDR penetrometer was demonstrated by conducting an experimental calibration of the probe and penetration tests in a chamber containing a silty soil column. The experimental results demonstrate that the measurements from the improved TDR penetrometer are able to capture the variation in the water content profiles as well as the leachate contaminated soil.
Spillage of lunar polar crater volatiles onto adjacent terrains: The case for dynamic processes
Authors: Farrell W. M. , Hurley D. M. , Zimmerman M. I.
Published: April 2015

We present an investigation of the release and transport of lunar polar crater volatiles onto topside regions surrounding the cold traps. The volatiles are liberated via surface energization processes associated with the harsh space environment, including solar wind plasma sputtering and impact vaporization. We find that some fraction of these volatiles can migrate from crater floors onto topside regions (those regions directly adjacent to and above the polar crater floors), and that these surrounding terrains should contain a sampling of the material originating within the crater itself. It is concluded that the nature of the volatile content on crater floors can be obtained by sampling the surface volatiles that have migrated or “spilled out” onto the adjacent terrain. This “spillage” effect could make human or robotic prospecting for crater resources significantly easier, since an assessment may not require direct entry into the very harsh polar crater environment. We also suggest that there are dynamic processes actively operating on the crater floors, and we estimate their source rates assuming dynamic equilibrium of the observed water frost and our modeled loss rates.
Optimal ensemble size of ensemble Kalman filter in sequential soil moisture data assimilation
Authors: Yin Jifu , Zhan Xiwu , Zheng Youfei , Hain Christopher R. , Liu Jicheng , Fang Li
Published: April 2015

The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) has been extensively applied in sequential soil moisture data assimilation to improve the land surface model performance and in turn weather forecast capability. Usually, the ensemble size of EnKF is determined with limited sensitivity experiments. Thus, the optimal ensemble size may have never been reached. In this work, based on a series of mathematical derivations, we demonstrate that the maximum efficiency of the EnKF for assimilating observations into the models could be reached when the ensemble size is set to 12. Simulation experiments are designed in this study under ensemble size cases 2, 5, 12, 30, 50, 100, and 300 to support the mathematical derivations. All the simulations are conducted from 1 June to 30 September 2012 over southeast USA (from −90°W, 30°N to −80°W, 40°N) at 25 km resolution. We found that the simulations are perfectly consistent with the mathematical derivation. This optical ensemble size may have theoretical implications on the implementation of EnKF in other sequential data assimilation problems.
Costly retaliation is promoted by threats to resources in women and threats to status in men
Authors: Geniole Shawn N. , Cunningham Cody E. , Keyes Amanda E. , Busseri Michael A. , McCormick Cheryl M.
Published: April 2015

What motivates people to act against their own self‐interest? In men, what seems to be irrational decision‐making in the short‐term may be explained by other long‐term benefits; thus retaliation may not be motivated by tangible costs, but instead intangible psychological variables (e.g., status threats). In contrast, there is evidence that women are more sensitive to tangible costs than are men. In Experiment 1, using the Point Subtraction Aggression Paradigm (PSAP), we tested the prediction that in men, the frequency of provocation, and not the monetary loss (tangible cost), would be associated with retaliation, whereas women would be sensitive to the tangible costs. In keeping with the prediction, women (n = 80) who incurred greater tangible costs (irrespective of frequency) retaliated with more costly punishment, whereas men (n = 90) who were provoked more frequently (irrespective of tangible costs) retaliated with more costly punishment. In Experiment 2, we directly investigated whether women were more sensitive to threats to resources and men were more sensitive to threats to status, as suggested by the results of Experiment 1. Women's (n = 53) retaliation was greater when they reported it to be a means to protect their resources, and men's (n = 35) retaliation was greater when they reported it to be a means to protect their status. Thus, these results identify psychological variables that guide retaliation that is costly to the actor. Consistent with evolutionary perspectives, concerns about status appear to drive costly retaliatory behavior more so in men than in women. Aggr. Behav. 41:515–525, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of Certolizumab Pegol on Patient‐Reported Outcomes in Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Sieper J. , Kivitz A. , van Tubergen A. , Deodhar A. , Coteur G. , Woltering F. , Landewé R.
Published: April 2015

Objective

Patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) provide an opportunity to collect important information relating to patient well‐being, which is often difficult for physicians to measure (e.g., quality of life, pain, fatigue, and sleep). Here we evaluate the effects of certolizumab pegol (CZP) on PROs during the 24‐week, double‐blind phase of the RAPID axial spondyloarthritis (SpA) trial, a phase 3 trial of axial SpA patients, including both ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and nonradiographic axial SpA patients.

Methods

A total of 325 patients with active axial SpA were randomized 1:1:1 to placebo, CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks, or CZP 400 mg every 4 weeks. The primary end point was the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society criteria for 20% improvement in disease activity response at week 12, and has been reported previously. PROs included total back pain, nocturnal back pain, a daily pain diary, the Sleep Problems Index II (SPI) domain of the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Sleep Scale, fatigue, the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life (ASQOL) measure, and the Short Form 36‐item (SF‐36) health survey physical component summary (PCS), mental component summary (MCS), and domains.

Results

Patients treated with CZP reported significant improvements from week 1 for nocturnal back pain (placebo −0.6, CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks −1.9, and CZP 400 mg every 4 weeks −1.6; P < 0.001) and ASQOL (placebo −1.0, CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks −2.3, and CZP 400 mg every 4 weeks −1.9; P < 0.05) compared with placebo, while significant improvements in total back pain were seen from day 2. Patients treated with both CZP dosing regimens also had significantly greater improvements in fatigue, MOS‐SPI, SF‐36 PCS, MCS, and domains compared with placebo. Improvements were similar in both AS and nonradiographic axial SpA patients.

Conclusion

Both CZP dosing schedules rapidly improved patient well‐being, as measured by PROs, including pain, fatigue, sleep, SF‐36, and ASQOL in both AS and nonradiographic axial SpA patients.
Sustainable Efficacy of Switching From Intravenous to Subcutaneous Tocilizumab Monotherapy in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Ogata Atsushi , Atsumi Tatsuya , Fukuda Takaaki , Hirabayashi Yasuhiko , Inaba Masaaki , Ishiguro Naoki , Kai Motokazu , Kawabata Daisuke , Kida Daihei , Kohsaka Hitoshi , Matsumura Ryutaro , Minota Seiji , Mukai Masaya , Sumida Takayuki , Takasugi Kiyoshi , Tamaki Shigenori , Takeuchi Tsutomu , Ueda Atsuhisa , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Yamanaka Hisashi , Yoshifuji Hajime , Nomura Akira ,   the Musashi Study Investigators
Published: April 2015

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of switching from intravenous (IV) tocilizumab (TCZ) to subcutaneous (SC) TCZ monotherapy in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Methods

Patients who had completed 24 weeks of TCZ‐SC (162 mg/2 weeks) or TCZ‐IV (8 mg/kg/4 weeks) monotherapy in the double‐blind period of the MUSASHI study were enrolled in an 84‐week open‐label extension period. All received TCZ‐SC (162 mg/2 weeks) monotherapy. Effects of the IV to SC switch were evaluated at week 36 (12 weeks after switching).

Results

Overall, 319 patients received ≥1 dose of TCZ‐SC during the open‐label extension period; 160 switched from TCZ‐IV to TCZ‐SC (TCZ IV/SC) and 159 continued TCZ‐SC (TCZ SC/SC). Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate clinical remission rates were 62.5% (100 of 160) for TCZ IV/SC and 50.0% (79 of 158) for TCZ SC/SC at week 24, and were maintained at 62.5% (100 of 160) and 57.0% (90 of 158), respectively, at week 36. In the TCZ IV/SC group, 9% of patients (9 of 100) who had achieved remission at week 24 could not maintain remission at week 36. In TCZ IV/SC patients weighing ≥70 kg, the percentage with a sufficient serum TCZ concentration (≥1 μg/ml) decreased from 90.9% (10 of 11) at week 24 to 45.5% (5 of 11) at week 36. Overall safety profiles were similar in TCZ IV/SC and TCZ SC/SC except for mild injection site reactions in TCZ IV/SC.

Conclusion

Efficacy is adequately maintained in most patients switching from TCZ‐IV (8 mg/kg/4 weeks) to TCZ‐SC (162 mg/2 weeks) monotherapy. Patients receiving TCZ‐IV can switch to TCZ‐SC without serious safety concerns. Clinical efficacy may be reduced after switching in some patients with high body weight.
Fault detection and approximation for a class of linear impulsive systems using sliding‐mode observer
Authors: Ayati Moosa , Salmasi Farzad R.
Published: April 2015

The objective of this paper is to develop a method for fault detection and approximation of linear impulsive systems exposed to actuator faults. Utilizing proposed sliding mode observer, states of the impulsive system are estimated. It is proved that estimation error dynamical system is asymptotically stable between jumps. In addition, an upper bound of the state estimation errors at jump instants has been derived explicitly. State estimations are used to reconstruct the fault signal. Furthermore, an upper bound of the fault estimation errors is obtained. Proficiency of the proposed method is evaluated under different fault scenarios using numerical simulations. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regioselective Enzymatic β‐Carboxylation of para‐Hydroxy‐ styrene Derivatives Catalyzed by Phenolic Acid Decarboxylases
Authors: Wuensch Christiane , Pavkov‐Keller Tea , Steinkellner Georg , Gross Johannes , Fuchs Michael , Hromic Altijana , Lyskowski Andrzej , Fauland Kerstin , Gruber Karl , Glueck Silvia M. , Faber Kurt
Published: April 2015

We report on a ‘green’ method for the utilization of carbon dioxide as C1 unit for the regioselective synthesis of (E)‐cinnamic acids via regioselective enzymatic carboxylation of para‐hydroxystyrenes. Phenolic acid decarboxylases from bacterial sources catalyzed the β‐carboxylation of para‐hydroxystyrene derivatives with excellent regio‐ and (E/Z)‐stereoselectivity by exclusively acting at the β‐carbon atom of the C=C side chain to furnish the corresponding (E)‐cinnamic acid derivatives in up to 40% conversion at the expense of bicarbonate as carbon dioxide source. Studies on the substrate scope of this strategy are presented and a catalytic mechanism is proposed based on molecular modelling studies supported by mutagenesis of amino acid residues in the active site.

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Preparation and Characterization of Low‐Density Polyethylene/Thermoplastic Starch Composites
Authors: Beg M. D. H. , Kormin S. , Bijarimi M. , Zaman Haydar U.
Published: April 2015

In this study, sago starch was physically blended with low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) via the melt blending process followed by injection molding to produce LDPE/sago starch (LPS) composites. The sago starch content was varied from 5 to 30 wt% of LDPE. The addition of starch to LDPE reduced the melt flow rate (MFR), the tensile strength, and impact strength, whereas the tensile modulus, flexural strength, and flexural modulus increased. To improve poor mechanical properties of the LPS, LDPE/glycerol thermoplastic starch (LPGTS) or LDPE/2:1 mixture of glycerol and urea thermoplastic starch (LPMTS) was used in this study. The effect of compatibilizer (maleic anhydride) on properties of the LPMTS specimens was also investigated. The LPS, LPGTS, LPMTS, and maleic anhydride treated LPMTS (LPMTSM) samples were analyzed for the MFR, mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, and impact tests), thermal (TGA and DSC), and morphological properties. As a result, the incorporation of plasticizers or compatibilizer into LPS caused the considerable improvement in MFR and mechanical properties. Moreover, the presence of compatibilizer produced better properties for the LPMTSM sample than for the other samples, indicating better dispersion and homogeneity of starch to the matrix. In addition, thermal stability, DSC, and phase morphology were carried out for different LPS samples.
Enhanced gravimetric CO2 capacity and viscosity for ionic liquids with cyanopyrrolide anion
Authors: Brown Paul , Gurkan Burcu E. , Hatton T. Alan
Published: April 2015

Ionic Liquids (ILs) are considered as alternative solvents for the separation of CO2 from flue gas due mainly to their CO2 affinity and thermal stability. The cation architecture in a matrix of ammonium and mostly phosphonium‐based ILs with 2‐cyanopyrrolide as the anion to evaluate its impact on gravimetric CO2 absorption capacity, viscosity, and thermal stability and the three fundamental properties vital for application realization are systematically investigated. Among the investigated ILs, [P2,2,2,8][2‐CNpyr] demonstrated the lowest viscosity, 95 cP at 40°C, and highest CO2 uptake, 114 mg CO2 per g IL at 40°C. Combined effects of asymmetry and the optimized chain lengths also resulted in improved thermal stability for [P2,2,2,8][2‐CNpyr], with a mass loss rate of 1.35 × 10−6 g h−1 (0.0067 mass % h−1) at 80°C. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 2280–2285, 2015