bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extensive translation of small ORFs revealed by polysomal ribo-Seq
Authors: Aspden Julie L. , Eyre-Walker Ying Chen , Philips Rose J. , Brocard Michele , Amin Unum , Couso Juan
Published: February 2014

Thousands of small Open Reading Frames (smORFs) encoding small peptides of fewer than 100 amino acids exist in our genomes. Examples of functional smORFs have been characterised in a few species but the actual number of translated smORFs, and their molecular, functional and evolutionary features are not known. Here we present a genome-wide assessment of smORF translation by ribosomal profiling of polysomal fractions. This ‘polysomal ribo-Seq’ suggests that smORFs are translated at the same level and in the same relative numbers (80%) as normal proteins. The smORF peptides appear widely conserved, show activity in cells, and display a putative amino acid signature. These findings reinforce the idea that smORFs are an abundant and fundamental genome component, displaying features usually attributed to canonical proteins, including high translation levels, biological function, amino acid sequence specificity and cross-species conservation.
A one-dimensional polymeric cobalt(III)–potassium complex with 18-crown-6, cyanide and porphyrinate ligands
Authors: Belghith Yassine , Toumi Hamza , Daran Jean-Claude , Nasri Habib
Published: February 2014

The reaction of CoII(TpivPP) {TpivPP is the dianion of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis[2-(2,2-dimethylpropanamido)phenyl]porphyrin} with an excess of KCN salts and an excess of the 18-crown-6 in chlorobenzene leads to the polymeric title compoundcatena-poly[[dicyanido-2κ2C-(1,4,7,10,13,16-hexaoxacyclooctadecane-1κ6O){μ3-(2α,2β)-5,10,15,20-tetrakis[2-(2,2-dimethylpropanamido)phenyl]porphyrinato-1κO5:2κ4N,N′,N′′,N′′′:1′κO15}cobalt(III)potassium] dihydrate], {[CoK(CN)2(C12H24O6)(C64H64N8O4]·2H2O}n. The CoIIIion lies on an inversion center, and the asymmetric unit contains one half of a [CoIII(2α,2β-TpivPP)(CN)2]−ion complex and one half of a [K(18-C-6]+counter-ion (18-C-6 is 1,4,7,10,13,16-hexaoxacyclooctadecane), where the KIion lies on an inversion center. The CoIIIion is hexacoordinated by two C-bonded axial cyanide ligands and the four pyrrole N atoms of the porphyrin ligand. The KIion is chelated by the six O atoms of the 18-crown-6 molecule and is further coordinated by two O atoms of pivalamido groups of the porphyrin ligands, leading to the formation of polymeric chains running along [011]. In the crystal, the polymeric chains and the lattice water molecules are linked by N—H...O and O—H...N hydrogen bonds, as well as weak C—H...O, O—H...π and C—H...π interactions into a three-dimensional supramolecular architecture.
Diaquabis(cinnamato-κ2O,O′)cadmium
Authors: Chooset Sirinart , Cunningham Bryan , Kantacha Anob , Zeller Matthias , Wongnawa Sumpun
Published: February 2014

The title complex, [Cd(C9H7O2)2(H2O)2], was obtained as an unintended product of the reaction of cadmium nitrate with hexamethylenetetramine and cinnamic acid. The CdIIion lies on a twofold rotation axis and is coordinated in a slightly distorted trigonal–prismatic environment. In the crystal, the V-shaped molecules are arranged in an interlocking fashion along [010] and O—H...O hydrogen bonds link the molecules, forming a two-dimensional network parallel to (001).
4-[(1-Benzyl-1,2,3-triazol-5-yl)methyl]-2H-1,4-benzothiazin-3(4H)-one
Authors: Sebbar Nada Kheira , El Fal Mohammed , Essassi El Mokhtar , Saadi Mohamed , El Ammari Lahcen
Published: February 2014

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C18H16N4OS, contains two independent molecules of similar conformation, the most relevant difference being the dihedral angle formed by the benzene rings [57.8 (2) and 52.7 (2)°]. The six-membered heterocycle of the benzothiazine fragment exhibits a screw-boat conformation in both molecules. The plane through the triazole ring is nearly perpendicular to those through the fused and terminal benzene rings [dihedral angles of 74.2 (2) and 83.2 (2)° in one molecule, and 77.8 (2) and 82.9 (2)° in the other]. In the crystal, molecules are linked by C—H...N and C—H...O hydrogen bonds into chains parallel to thea-axis direction. The crystal used was a non-merohedral twin, the refined ratio of twin components being 0.85 (10):15 (10).
Methyl (2Z)-2-{(2Z)-3-[(cyclopentylidene)amino]-4-oxo-2-phenylimino-1,3-thiazolidin-5-ylidene}acetate
Authors: Mague Joel T. , Akkurt Mehmet , Mohamed Shaaban K. , Hassan Alaa A. , Albayati Mustafa R.
Published: February 2014

In the title compound, C17H17N3O3S, the thiazole ring is nearly planar [maximum deviation = 0.015 (1) Å for the ring N atom] and the cyclopentane ring has a twist conformation. The molecular conformation is stabilized by a hypervalent interaction between the S atom and the ester group carbonyl O atom, with an S...O distance of 2.7931 (10) Å. In the crystal, C—H...O interactions generate chains of molecules propagating along [110] and π–π stacking interactions [centroid–centroid distance = 3.4677 (7) Å] between the thiazole rings organize these chains into (001) layers.
Pinus ponderosaalters nitrogen dynamics and diminishes the climate footprint in natural ecosystems ofPatagonia
Authors: Hess Laura J. T. , Austin Amy T.
Published: February 2014

Understanding climate effects on plant–soil interactions in terrestrial ecosystems remains challenging due to the fact that floristic composition covaries with climate, particularly along rainfall gradients. It is difficult to separate effects of precipitationper sefrom those mediated indirectly through changes in species composition. As such, afforestation (the intentional planting of woody species) in terrestrial ecosystems provides an ecological opportunity to assess the relative importance of climate and vegetation controls on ecosystem processes.

We investigated the impacts of 35 years of afforestation on ecosystemNdynamics, in ecosystems ranging from arid shrub‐steppe to closed‐canopy forest inPatagonia,Argentina. Sites of natural vegetation and adjacent sites planted with a single exotic species,Pinus ponderosa,were identified in five precipitation regimes along a continuous gradient of 250–2200 mm mean annual precipitation (MAP). We evaluatedCandNparameters of vegetation and soil, as well as natural abundance of13Cand15Nin leaves, roots, ectomycorrhizae (EcM) and soils.

In natural vegetation, most leaf traits (%N,C:Nratios, leaf mass per area, δ15Nvalues) demonstrated strong significant relationships withMAP, while these relationships were nearly absent in afforested sites. In addition, theEcMof native southern beech and pine trees were significantly enriched in15Nrelative to leaves at all sites where they were present. While soilCandNpools in both vegetation types increased withMAP, overall pool sizes were significantly reduced in afforested sites.

Synthesis. Observed relationships between leaf traits and precipitation in natural vegetation may be driven largely by shifts in species composition and plant–soil interactions, rather than direct effects of precipitation. Our results suggest that a change in the species composition of the dominant vegetation is sufficient to alterCandNcycling independently of climate constraints: pine afforestation homogenizedNdynamics across sites spanning an order of magnitude ofMAP. These results highlight the important control of ectomycorrhizal associations in affectingCandNdynamics. Additionally, they serve to demonstrate that altering natural species composition alone is sufficient to cause large, detectable impacts onNturnover independently of direct climate effects.
A model for non‐equilibrium metapopulation dynamics utilizing data on species occupancy, patch ages and landscape history
Authors: Ruete Alejandro , Fritz Örjan , Snäll Tord
Published: February 2014

The distribution pattern of many species reflects the past rather than the current structure of landscapes. Consequently, species are most often not in equilibrium with the current landscape structure. Yet this is a well‐known fact, there is no appropriate approach to estimate the colonization rate of non‐equilibrium species based on only data on the species occurrence pattern in the landscape.

We present an approach to estimate the colonization rate of non‐equilibrium metapopulations. The approach requires only data on species presence/absence among its patches (occurrence pattern), data on patch ages and data on the historic distribution of the patches in the landscape. By estimating the past occurrence patterns and colonization events leading to the current pattern of occupied and non‐occupied patches, we estimate the colonization rate, including the dispersal kernel. We also show how to estimate effects of local patch conditions and how to include an independent estimate of the local extinction rate based on other data. We use nine epiphytic lichen species confined to beech trees to illustrate the method.

Five species had restricted dispersal range, between 200 and 4700 m, and their colonization rate decreased with increasing fragmentation. Species colonization rates were related to niche width. Among the demographic parameters, the force of colonization was more important than the dispersal range in explaining the colonization rates. Local patch conditions did not explain the colonization probability of any species. In metapopulation projections that did not account for restricted dispersal range, higher future metapopulation sizes were projected.

Synthesis. The presented approach uses data on only species occurrence, patch age and landscape history to estimate the species colonization rate and dispersal kernel. It can also utilize independent data on local extinction rate. Rather than identifying factors explaining the occurrence pattern, the model estimates the rate of change in the occurrence pattern. This dynamic modelling allows testing general and applied questions on the dynamics or viability of metapopulations of sessile species. The approach is applicable for species whose distribution pattern reflects the past rather than the current landscape structure, for example, certain epiphytes and ground‐floor plants.
Analytical Methods for Determining Bioavailability and Bioaccessibility of Bioactive Compounds from Fruits and Vegetables: A Review
Authors: Carbonell‐Capella Juana M. , Buniowska Magdalena , Barba Francisco J. , Esteve María J. , Frígola Ana.
Published: February 2014

Determination of bioactive compounds content directly from foodstuff is not enough for the prediction of potential in vivo effects, as metabolites reaching the blood system may be different from the original compounds found in food, as a result of an intensive metabolism that takes place during absorption. Nutritional efficacy of food products may be ensured by the determination of bioaccessibility, which provides valuable information in order to select the appropriate dosage and source of food matrices. However, between all the methods available, there is a need to establish the best approach for the assessment of specific compounds. Comparison between in vivo and in vitro procedures used to determine bioaccessibility and bioavailability is carried out, taking into account the strengths and limitations of each experimental technique, along with an intensive description of actual approaches applied to assess bioaccessibility of bioactive compounds. Applications of these methods for specific bioactive compound's bioaccessibility or bioavailability are also discussed, considering studies regarding the bioavailability of carotenoids, polyphenolic compounds, glucosinolates, vitamin E, and phytosterols.
Factors Influencing the Freeze‐Thaw Stability of Emulsion‐Based Foods
Authors: Degner Brian M. , Chung Cheryl , Schlegel Vicki , Hutkins Robert , McClements David Julian
Published: February 2014

Many of the sauces used in frozen meals are oil‐in‐water emulsions that consist of fat droplets dispersed within an aqueous medium. This type of emulsion must remain physically and chemically stable throughout processing, freezing, storage, and defrosting conditions. Knowledge of the fundamental physicochemical mechanisms responsible for the stability of emulsion‐based sauces is needed to design and fabricate high‐quality sauces with the desired sensory attributes. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of the influence of freezing and thawing on the stability of oil‐in‐water emulsions. In particular, it focuses on the influence of product composition (such as emulsifiers, biopolymers, salts, and cryoprotectants), homogenization conditions, and freezing/thawing conditions on the stability of emulsions. The information contained in this review may be useful for optimizing the design of emulsion‐based sauces for utilization in commercial food products.
Food‐Originating ACE Inhibitors, Including Antihypertensive Peptides, as Preventive Food Components in Blood Pressure Reduction
Authors: Iwaniak Anna , Minkiewicz Piotr , Darewicz Małgorzata
Published: February 2014

This work is a literature overview on angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory/antihypertensive peptides in food protein sources. The following aspects related to peptides with the above‐mentioned bioactivity are discussed: (i) mechanism of action of ACE, (ii) the structural character of ACE inhibitors/antihypertensive peptide sequences determined by different methods, including quantitative structure–activity relationship studies, (iii) their food sources, (iv) absorption of peptides, (v) in vitro and in vivo approaches involved in the production and potential release of peptide ACE inhibitors as well as in silico methods applied in research concerning peptides.
Listeria monocytogenes in Vacuum‐Packed Smoked Fish Products: Occurrence, Routes of Contamination, and Potential Intervention Measures
Authors: Tocmo Restituto , Krizman Katja , Khoo Wei Jie , Phua Li Kai , Kim Minjeong , Yuk Hyun‐Gyun
Published: February 2014

The occurrence of Listeria monocytogenes in ready‐to‐eat (RTE) fish products is well documented and represents an important food safety concern. Contamination of this pathogen in vacuum‐packed (VP) smoked fish products at levels greater than the RTE food limit (100 CFU/g) has been traced to factors such as poor sanitary practices, contaminated processing environments, and temperature abuse during prolonged storage in retail outlets. Intervention technologies including physical, biological, and chemical techniques have been studied to control transmission of L. monocytogenes to these products. High‐pressure processing, irradiation, and pulsed UV‐light treatment have shown promising results. Potential antilisterial effects of some sanitizers and combined chemical preservatives have also been demonstrated. Moreover, the concept of biopreservation, use of bioactive packaging, and a combination of different intervention technologies, as in the hurdle concept, are also under consideration. In this review, the prevalence, routes of contamination, and potential intervention technologies to control transmission of L. monocytogenes in VP smoked fish products are discussed.
2013 IFT International Food Nanoscience Conference: Proceedings
Authors: Newsome Rosetta
Published: February 2014

The Institute of Food Technologists convened its 6th Intl. Food Nanoscience Conference in Chicago July 12 to 13, 2013. The objectives were to: (1) serve as a unique forum for exchange of insights into research developments, technology trends and applications, and risk and safety assessments; and (2) facilitate dialogue examining potential policy implications, social issues, consumer perceptions, and risk communication. An inaugural student poster competition was held to engage students who are actively involved in nanoscience‐related research. John DiLoreto presented the first of 2 keynote presentations, providing an overarching big picture of the current utility of nanotechnology in multiple industry sectors. Frans Kampers and Rickey Yada presented the 2nd keynote—a global perspective of applications for the food system and information on research and other trends. Shaun Clancy addressed activities and perspectives outside the United States. Others addressed ultraviolet light as a sustainable means for improving safety and quality of liquid dairy products (Gail Barnes), the sustainable synthesis of nanomaterials (Rajender Varma), safety evaluation of nanomaterials (Michael Adams), developments relating to safety assessment of engineered nanomaterials and the NanoCharacter initiative (Richard Canady), the NanoRelease project (Richard Canady, Steve Roberts, Rickey Yada, Susann Bellmann, and Timothy Duncan), application of a gastrointestinal model for studying the behavior of nanosized layered double hydroxides (Susann Bellmann), capability of nanodelivery systems to improve bioavailability of bioactives (Lacey Simon), potential benefits of applications of nanoscience in food contact materials (Timothy Duncan), food safety implications of nanoscience (Frans Kampers), and consumer perceptions of food nanoscience (Mitchell Cheeseman).
Antidiarrheal Effect of Food Fermented by Various Strains of Lactobacillus
Authors: Shafi Afshan , Farooq Umar , Akram Kashif , Jaskani Mahgul , Siddique Farzana , Tanveer Amna
Published: February 2014

Various Lactobacillus species possess antidiarrheal properties due to their probiotic effects and could be utilized in the form of fermented foods for the treatment of diarrheal disease. Diarrhea is the condition of having 3 or more loose or watery bowel movements per day. This disease is a global problem causing several million deaths each year, and the major victims are children. So its prevention and control is crucial. For the treatment of diarrheal disease, antibiotics and oral rehydration solutions are used, but these therapies are not always effective to reduce the duration and frequency of diarrhea and of increase consistency. Recent studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the natural mode (fermented food) of disease management because of its easy availability, low cost, and efficacy against diarrhea.
Effects of Azilsartan Compared to Other Angiotensin Receptor Blockers on Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and the Sympathetic Nervous System in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Kusuyama Takanori , Ogata Hirohito , Takeshita Hiroaki , Kohno Hiroaki , Shimodozono Shinichi , Iida Hidetaka , Tsukazaki Takashi
Published: February 2014

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, and most patients with hypertension are administered antihypertensive drugs. However, not all patients achieve normal blood pressure levels. The new angiotensin receptor blocker azilsartan (Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Osaka, Japan) has been reported to have a strong hypotensive effect. Our study investigated the efficacy of azilsartan compared with other angiotensin receptor blockers. This study included 17 hypertensive patients on HD, who had been administered angiotensin receptor blockers, except for azilsartan, for more than 6 months before enrolling, and after enrollment, they were switched to azilsartan. Blood tests, Holter electrocardiogram, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and echocardiography were performed at baseline and at the 6‐month follow‐up. The blood pressure from baseline to 6 months had significantly decreased (24‐h systolic blood pressure from 150.9 ± 16.2 mm Hg to 131.3 ± 21.7 mm Hg, P = 0.008), awakening time systolic blood pressure from 152.1 ± 16.9 mm Hg to 131.7 ± 23.2 mm Hg, P = 0.01, sleep‐time systolic blood pressure from 148.1 ± 19.7 mm Hg to 130.0 ± 20.1 mm Hg, P = 0.005). There was a significant reduction in serum noradrenaline levels as well as left ventricular mass index after switching to azilsartan (from 550.1 ± 282.9 pg/mL, to 351.7 ± 152.3 pg/mL, P = 0.002; from 117.0 ± 26.4 g/m2 to 111.3 ± 23.9 g/m2, P = 0.01, respectively). Azilsartan had a significantly stronger hypotensive effect than other angiotensin receptor blockers. Thus, the switch to azilsartan might improve prognosis of hemodialysis patients. We suggest that the strong anti‐hypertensive effect of azilsartan originated from a combination of primary angiotensin receptor blocker class‐effect and a stronger suppression of sympathetic nervous system.
Why should I share my knowledge? A multiple foci of commitment perspective
Authors: Swart Juani , Kinnie Nicholas , van Rossenberg Yvonne , Yalabik Zeynep Y.
Published: February 2014

Knowledge‐intensive firms need to leverage their individual knowledge assets via knowledge sharing to create collective knowledge resources. This process is, however, in the control of the knowledge worker. We explore this personal and emotive quality of knowledge sharing by asking: ‘How does employee commitment impact on knowledge sharing?’ We study professional service firms operating in cross‐boundary environments and examine the impact of commitment to the organisation, profession, team and client on knowledge sharing. The article contributes directly to our understanding of the interrelationship between (a) the types and foci of commitment and (b) bidirectional knowledge sharing.
New Material of Feilongus (Reptilia: Pterosauria) from the Lower Cretaceous Jiufotang Formation of Western Liaoning
Authors: WANG Xuri , SHEN Caizhi , GAO Chunling , JIN Kemo
Published: February 2014

Based on a new nearly naturally preserved skull and four cervical vertebrae of the pterosaur Feilongus sp. from the lower Cretaceous Jiufotang Formation of Beipiao, western Liaoning province, northeastern China, the diagnosis of Feilongus is amended. The revised diagnosis notes long, curved, needle‐shaped teeth that are confined to the jaw far anterior to the nasoantorbital fenestra; posterior teeth that are slightly smaller than the anterior teeth; cervical vertebrae elongated with a ratio of length to width greater than 5; tooth number of about 78; and two cranial sagittal crests.
A model of flops
Authors: Hummel Patrick , Morgan John , Stocken Phillip C.
Published: February 2014

A firm surveys a large number of consumers, some of whom sincerely report their tastes and others of whom report strategically. It makes product decisions using the sample mean of survey responses. When firms and consumers agree on the fraction of sincere consumers, information loss is severe, and many products are flops as they poorly match consumer tastes. When beliefs differ, however, equilibrium is in linear strategies, and information aggregates. Despite this, flops still arise. A firm, however, can solve the flops problem by limiting the effect of strategic consumers. Binary surveys offer one such solution.
Fear of rejection? Tiered certification and transparency
Authors: Farhi Emmanuel , Lerner Josh , Tirole Jean
Published: February 2014

Product quality certifiers may not reveal the identity of unsuccessful applicants/sellers for three reasons. First, they respond to the desire of individual sellers to avoid the stigma from rejection. Second, nontransparency helps a certifier to increase his market power by raising the stigma from lower‐tier certification. Third, transparency does not help screen among heterogeneous sellers. Strategic complementarities arise as sellers move down the certification pecking order and lead to the stigmatization of the lower tiers. Mandating transparency benefits the sellers but has an ambiguous impact on buyers, who actually become less informed about product quality.
On the asymptotic distribution of the transaction price in a clock model of a multi‐unit, oral, ascending‐price auction within the common‐value paradigm
Authors: Hong Han , Paarsch Harry J. , Xu Pai
Published: February 2014

Using a clock model of a multi‐unit, oral, ascending‐price auction, within the common‐value paradigm, we analyze the behavior of the transaction price as the numbers of bidders and units gets large in a particular way. We find that even though the transaction price is determined by a fraction of losing drop‐out bids, that price converges in probability to the true, but ex ante unknown, value. Subsequently, we demonstrate that the asymptotic distribution of the transaction price is Gaussian. Finally, we apply our methods to data from an auction of taxi license plates held in Shenzhen, China.
Patent pools and innovation in substitute technologies—evidence from the 19th‐century sewing machine industry
Authors: Lampe Ryan , Moser Petra
Published: February 2014

Patent pools, which combine complementary patents of competing firms, are expected to increase overall welfare but potentially discourage innovation in substitutes for the pool technology. This article exploits a new historical data set on changes in patenting and firm entry for a clearly defined pool technology and substitutes in the 19th‐century sewing machine industry. This analysis reveals a substantial increase in innovation for an—albeit technologically inferior—substitute technology. Historical evidence suggests that the creation of a pool‐diverted innovation toward an inferior substitute technology by creating differential license fees and litigation risks.
Targeted search and the long tail effect
Authors: Yang Huanxing
Published: February 2014

We develop a search model to explain the long tail effect. Search targetability, or the quality of search, is explicitly modelled. Consumers are searching for the right products within the right categories. As search costs decrease, or search targetability increases, additional variety of goods catering to long tail consumers will be provided, and the concentration of sales across different categories of goods decreases. The effects of a decrease in search costs or an increase in search targetability on consumer utility, prices, and profits depend on whether the type coverage increases. Decreases in search costs and increases in search targetability have different qualitative effects.
Contracts offered by bureaucrats
Authors: Khalil Fahad , Kim Doyoung , Lawarrée Jacques
Published: February 2014

We examine the power of incentives in bureaucracies by studying contracts offered by a bureaucrat to her agent. The bureaucrat operates under a fixed budget, optimally chosen by a funding authority, and she can engage in policy drift, which we define as inversely related to her intrinsic motivation. Interaction between a fixed budget and policy drift results in low‐powered incentives. We discuss how the bureaucrat may benefit from stricter accountability as it leads to larger budgets. Low‐powered incentives remain even in an alternative centralized setting, where the funding authority contracts directly with the agent using the bureaucrat to monitor output.
Unobserved heterogeneity and reserve prices in auctions
Authors: Roberts James W.
Published: February 2014

This article shows how reserve prices can be used to control for unobserved object heterogeneity to identify and estimate the distribution of bidder values in auctions. Reserve prices are assumed to be monotonic in the realization of unobserved heterogeneity, but not necessarily set optimally. The model is estimated using transaction prices from a used car auction platform to show that the platform enables sellers to capture a large fraction of the potential value from selling their vehicle. Individual sellers benefit mostly from access to a large set of buyers, but the magnitude depends on accounting for unobserved heterogeneity.
Tumor response and clinical toxicity associated with second‐line chemotherapy regimens for advanced non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hu Chengping , Wang Yan , Chen Jianhua , Wu Shengqi , Li Xiaoling , Wang Yuqin , Yang Yicheng , Rajan Narayan , Papadimitropoulos Manny , Xiao Qiong , Zhan Huan , Chen Wendong
Published: February 2014

Background

Previously reported superior tumor response of pemetrexed in the second‐line setting for advanced non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer (advNS‐NSCLC) has never been confirmed in real‐world studies. Platinum‐based doublet is frequently used in the second‐line setting for advanced NSCLC in China.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted including patients receiving pemetrexed or docetaxel‐based chemotherapy in the second‐line setting for advNS‐NSCLC in four Chinese tertiary care hospitals. Propensity score matched treatment groups were created for head‐to‐head comparisons on best tumor response and clinical toxicity. Multiple regression analyses were performed to rank the impact of the four regimens on the risks of tumor progression and hematological adverse events.

Results

Three hundred and eighty‐four patients were included for creating matched treatment groups for pemetrexed versus platinum/pemetrexed (33 pairs), docetaxel (17 pairs), and platinum/docetaxel (29 pairs), respectively. No significant differences were identified for best tumor response between pemetrexed and the other three regimens. However, pemetrexed was associated with significantly fewer patients experiencing anemia (39.4% vs. 69.7%, P = 0.004) and neutropenia (6.1% vs. 30.3%, P = 0.021) than platinum/pemetrexed. Multiple regression analyses indicated that pemetrexed was associated with significantly slower tumor progression (hazard ratio 0.628, P = 0.040) and a significantly lower risk of neutropenia (odds ratio 0.132, P = 0.019) than docetaxel.

Conclusions

Pemetrexed was associated with significantly postponed tumor progression and significantly less hematological toxicity than docetaxel in the real‐world second‐line setting for advNS‐NSCLC in Chinese patients. Pemetrexed monotherapy had comparable tumor response, but significantly less hematological toxicity than pemetrexed‐based doublet.
Altered proteome turnover and remodeling by short‐term caloric restriction or rapamycin rejuvenate the aging heart
Authors: Dai Dao‐Fu , Karunadharma Pabalu P. , Chiao Ying A. , Basisty Nathan , Crispin David , Hsieh Edward J. , Chen Tony , Gu Haiwei , Djukovic Danijel , Raftery Daniel , Beyer Richard P. , MacCoss Michael J. , Rabinovitch Peter S.
Published: February 2014

Chronic caloric restriction (CR) and rapamycin inhibit the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, thereby regulating metabolism and suppressing protein synthesis. Caloric restriction or rapamycin extends murine lifespan and ameliorates many aging‐associated disorders; however, the beneficial effects of shorter treatment on cardiac aging are not as well understood. Using a recently developed deuterated‐leucine labeling method, we investigated the effect of short‐term (10 weeks) CR or rapamycin on the proteomics turnover and remodeling of the aging mouse heart. Functionally, we observed that short‐term CR and rapamycin both reversed the pre‐existing age‐dependent cardiac hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction. There was no significant change in the cardiac global proteome (823 proteins) turnover with age, with a median half‐life 9.1 days in the 5‐month‐old hearts and 8.8 days in the 27‐month‐old hearts. However, proteome half‐lives of old hearts significantly increased after short‐term CR (30%) or rapamycin (12%). This was accompanied by attenuation of age‐dependent protein oxidative damage and ubiquitination. Quantitative proteomics and pathway analysis revealed an age‐dependent decreased abundance of proteins involved in mitochondrial function, electron transport chain, citric acid cycle, and fatty acid metabolism as well as increased abundance of proteins involved in glycolysis and oxidative stress response. This age‐dependent cardiac proteome remodeling was significantly reversed by short‐term CR or rapamycin, demonstrating a concordance with the beneficial effect on cardiac physiology. The metabolic shift induced by rapamycin was confirmed by metabolomic analysis.
Stress Abolishes the Effect of Previous Chronic Ethanol Consumption on Drug Place Preference and on the Mesocorticolimbic Brain Pathway
Authors: Moreira‐Silva Daniel , Morais‐Silva Gessynger , Fernandes‐Santos Juliana , Planeta Cleopatra S. , Marin Marcelo T.
Published: February 2014

Background

Conditioned place preference (CPP) to ethanol (EtOH) is an important addiction‐related alteration thought to be mediated by changed neurotransmission in the mesocorticolimbic brain pathway. Stress is a factor of major importance for the initiation, maintenance, and reinstatement of drug abuse and modulates the neurochemical outcomes of drugs. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of concomitant exposure to chronic EtOH and stress on CPP to this drug and alterations of dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission in mice.

Methods

Male Swiss mice were chronically treated with EtOH via a liquid diet and were exposed to forced swimming stress. After treatment, animals were evaluated for conditioning, extinction, and reinstatement of CPP to EtOH. Also, mice exposed to the same treatment protocol had their prefrontal cortex (PFC), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and amygdala dissected for the quantitation of dopamine, serotonin, and their metabolites content.

Results

Data showed that previous chronic exposure to EtOH potentiated EtOH conditioning and increased dopaminergic turnover in PFC. Exposure to stress potentiated EtOH conditioning and decreased dopaminergic turnover in the NAc. However, animals exposed to both chronic EtOH and stress did not display alterations of CPP and showed an elevated content of dopamine in amygdala. No treatment yielded serotonergic changes.

Conclusions

The present study indicates that previous EtOH consumption as well as stress exposure induces increased EtOH conditioning, which can be related to dopaminergic alterations in the PFC or NAc. Interestingly, concomitant exposure to both stimuli abolished each other's effect on conditioning and PFC or NAc alterations. This protective outcome can be related to the dopaminergic increase in the amygdala.
Influence of needle gauge used for venipuncture on automated platelet count and coagulation profile in dogs
Authors: Greenwell CM , Epstein SE , Brain PH
Published: February 2014

Objective

To determine if differing gauge (G) needles used for venipuncture altered the automated platelet count and coagulation profile (prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)) in clinically healthy dogs.

Design

Prospective, observational, randomised, clinical study.

Methods

We enrolled 20 clinically healthy dogs. Blood was collected via direct venipuncture of the jugular veins with 21G, 23Gand 25Gneedles in a random order. Automated haematology and automated coagulation times were performed on the blood samples. Values were analysed for differences among the needle gauges and also the order of sample collection.

Results

No difference was found in the automated platelet count or automated coagulation times for the three needle gauges used or the order in which the samples were collected.

Conclusion

Venipuncture can be performed with a 21G, 23Gor 25Gneedle to obtain blood from dogs for automated platelet count andPT/aPTTmeasurement without affecting the results.
Using imputation and mixture model approaches to integrate multi‐state capture–recapture models with assignment information
Authors: Wen Zhi , Pollock Kenneth H. , Nichols James D. , Waser Peter M. , Cao Weihua
Published: February 2014

In this article, we first extend the superpopulation capture–recapture model to multiple states (locations or populations) for two age groups., Wen et al., (2011; 2013) developed a new approach combining capture–recapture data with population assignment information to estimate the relative contributions of in situ births and immigrants to the growth of a single study population. Here, we first generalize Wen et al., (2011; 2013) approach to a system composed of multiple study populations (multi‐state) with two age groups, where an imputation approach is employed to account for the uncertainty inherent in the population assignment information. Then we develop a different, individual‐level mixture model approach to integrate the individual‐level population assignment information with the capture–recapture data. Our simulation and real data analyses show that the fusion of population assignment information with capture–recapture data allows us to estimate the origination‐specific recruitment of new animals to the system and the dispersal process between populations within the system. Compared to a standard capture–recapture model, our new models improve the estimation of demographic parameters, including survival probability, origination‐specific entry probability, and especially the probability of movement between populations, yielding higher accuracy and precision.
The development and application of compassion‐focused therapy for eating disorders (CFT‐E)
Authors: Goss Kenneth , Allan Steven
Published: February 2014

Objectives

This article outlines specific developments in compassion‐focused therapy (CFT) for the treatment of patients with an eating disorder.

Methods

The article provides a narrative review based on the existing literature and current practices ofCFTfor eating disorders (CFT‐E).

Results

The role of shame, self‐criticism, self‐directed hostility, and difficulties in generating and experiencing affiliative emotion in patients with an eating disorder is highlighted. The article describes howCFT‐E uniquely addresses these issues and discusses the current evidence base forCFT‐E. It also provides an outline of recent and potential future developments inCFT‐E.

Conclusions

CFT‐E offers a promising treatment for adult outpatients who present to specialist eating disorder services with restricting and binge/purging eating disorders. Recent developments include treatment protocols for patients who are low weight and have an eating disorder and for those presenting with obesity.

Practitioner points

CFT‐E is a group‐based treatment for adult outpatients with restricting or binge/purging eating disorders attending specialist services.

CFT‐E has a specific protocol and interventions to address the biological, psychological, and social challenges of recovery from an eating disorder.

CFT‐E specifically addresses the high levels of shame and self‐criticism commonly experienced by patients with an eating disorder.
A compassionate‐focused therapy group approach for acute inpatients: Feasibility, initial pilot outcome data, and recommendations
Authors: Heriot‐Maitland Charles , Vidal Joana B. , Ball Sarah , Irons Chris
Published: February 2014

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the feasibility of running and evaluating a compassion‐focused therapy (CFT) group adapted for acute inpatient settings, characterized by unpredictable lengths of admission, presentations, and diagnoses.

Design and methods

This pilot project used a mixed methods design to assess the impact of offering CFT‐informed group sessions on an acute inpatient unit. Pre‐ and post‐session ratings of distress and calmness, and ratings of understanding and helpfulness, were gathered from participants over a 6‐month period. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with four participants to gather their experience of the group.

Results

Fifty‐seven complete sets of rating measures were generated from 82 participants recruited for the study (attrition rate 30%), from a total pool of 93 inpatients attending group sessions. Pre‐ to post‐CFT session data highlighted a significant decrease in distress ratings and a significant increase in calmness ratings. A thematic analysis of four interviews identified themes relating to understanding compassion, experience of positive affect, and the experience of common humanity.

Conclusions

This is the first attempt to explore the effects of a CFT‐informed approach in acute mental health settings. These groups were well received by staff and patients, with some therapeutic impact despite being comparatively short and set against the background of a busy inpatient ward. These groups can be open and transdiagnostic, with stand‐alone topics and practices having positive impacts on distress and calmness. Future studies need to focus on adapting content and pacing for this group of people based on ongoing feedback from participants.

Practitioner points

CFT groups incorporating psychoeducation and compassion practices appear to be understandable and helpful to inpatients in acute mental health settings.

CFT acute inpatient groups can be structured as open and transdiagnostic, with stand‐alone sessions, to accommodate the varied nature of acute admissions.

Group topics informed by CFT – particularly the use of compassionate focusing and imagery – may reduce distress and increase calmness among inpatients.

A limitation of this pilot study is that it did not use standardized outcome measures. Moreover, as this was a feasibility study, there was no control group.
Retracted: A meta‐analysis and theoretical critique of oxytocin and psychosis: Prospects for attachment and compassion in promoting recovery
Authors: Gumley Andrew , Braehler Christine , Macbeth Angus
Published: February 2014

Objectives

There is now considerable evidence that affiliative processes are linked to oxytocin (OXT), which is linked to a range of social‐cognition competences underpinning interpersonal functioning. There is evidence thatOXTcircuitry is involved in psychosis and emerging evidence forOXTin treatment. Therefore, this study explored studies investigatingOXTand improvements in symptoms and social cognition among individuals diagnosed with psychosis.

Method

We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials investigatingOXTand psychosis. Specifically we asked, (1) what is the evidence thatOXTis associated with improved overall, positive, negative and general symptoms and (2) what is the evidence thatOXTis associated with improved social cognition?

Results

There were seven randomized controlled trials that met the inclusion criteria for this review. We conducted an exploratory meta‐analysis of data from four of these studies on a total sample size ofn = 105. For overall symptoms, using a random‐effects modelOXTversus placebo was associated with an effect size ofd = 0.52 (95% CI = 0.34–0.70;z = 5.66;p < .01). There was evidence of significant heterogeneity (Q = 96.4,p < .001;I2 = 96.5%). Similar patterns of findings were observed for positive, negative, and general symptoms. We found significant evidence of high risk of bias across all studies. We also identified that one particular study had an undue effect on overall effect size estimates. Finally, evidence regarding OXT was linked to improved social cognition was inconsistent.

Conclusions

There are significant problems in interpreting the current evidence base forOXTin psychosis. However,OXTmay provide a useful biomarker for exploring mechanisms of change occurring in psychological therapies including compassion‐focused therapy (CFT), which through its engagement of the attachment system may directly influenceOXT.

Practitioner points

Positive clinical implications

Practitioners should consider the attachment and/or interpersonal context of both psychological and pharmacological therapies.

There may be a specific roleCFTin fostering social cognition and mentalization as a context for emotional and psychiatric recovery.

Future clinical trials ofCFTin psychosis could consider mapping changes in social cognition onto changes inOXTthereby linking important domains of emotional and social recovery to underlying and salient neurophysiological systems.

Limitations

Small number of studies included in the review.

Not possible to determine mechanisms of change in trials of OXT.
The origins and nature of compassion focused therapy
Authors: Gilbert Paul
Published: February 2014

Compassion focused therapy (CFT) is rooted in an evolutionary, functional analysis of basic social motivational systems (e.g., to live in groups, form hierarchies and ranks, seek out sexual, partners help and share with alliances, and care for kin) and different functional emotional systems (e.g., to respond to threats, seek out resources, and for states of contentment/safeness). In addition, about 2 million years ago, (pre‐)humans began to evolve a range of cognitive competencies for reasoning, reflection, anticipating, imagining, mentalizing, and creating a socially contextualized sense of self. These new competencies can cause major difficulties in the organization of (older) motivation and emotional systems.CFTsuggests that our evolved brain is therefore potentially problematic because of its basic ‘design,’ being easily triggered into destructive behaviours and mental health problems (called ‘tricky brain’). However, mammals and especially humans have also evolved motives and emotions for affiliative, caring and altruistic behaviour that can organize our brain in such a way as to significantly offset our destructive potentials.CFTtherefore highlights the importance of developing people's capacity to (mindfully) access, tolerate, and direct affiliative motives and emotions, for themselves and others, and cultivate inner compassion as a way for organizing our human ‘tricky brain’ in prosocial and mentally healthy ways.

Practitioner points

The human brain is highly evolved for social processing and these mechanisms are being increasingly well understood and integrated into psychotherapy.

Among the most central processes that regulate emotion and sense of self are those linked to social roles such as status, sense of belonging and affiliation, and caring.

Many psychological difficulties are rooted in social relational problems especially in feeling cared for by others, having a caring interest in others, and having a caring, affiliative orientation to oneself.

Helping clients in these domains can address problems of moods, problematic behaviour and a range of shame and self‐critical linked difficulties.
Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) promotes tumour cell migration and invasion via epigenetic repression of E‐cadherin in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Li , Xu Zhibing , Zhong Lei , Wang Hang , Jiang Shuai , Long Qilai , Xu Jiejie , Guo Jianming
Published: February 2014

Objective

To investigate the molecular mechanism and clinical significance for an oncogenic role of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) in renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Materials and Methods

Immunohistochemistry analyses of EZH2, histone H3 trimethyl Lys27 (H3K27me3) and E‐cadherin were performed in tumour tissue samples from 257 patients with RCC. Regulatory effects of EZH2 on E‐cadherin expression were examined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and immunohistochemical staining. Migration and invasion assays were performed in RCC cell lines. Tumour xenograft experiments with RCC cells were carried out in nude mice.

Results

EZH2 promoted migration and invasion in RCC cell lines. Silencing EZH2 with short‐hairpin EZH2 (shEZH2) or 3‐deazaneplanocin A (DZNep) inhibited migration and invasion (P < 0.001), up‐regulated the expression of E‐cadherin in vitro, inhibited tumour growth, and prolonged survival in vivo (P = 0.022). EZH2 expression accompanied with E‐cadherin repression was associated with advanced disease stage (P = 0.004) and poor overall (P < 0.001) and disease‐free survival (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

EZH2 may contribute to RCC progression and is a potential therapeutic target for advanced RCC.