bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Synthesis of 1,2,3‐Triazoles by Copper‐Mediated CN and NN Bond Formation Starting From N‐Tosylhydrazones and Amines
Authors: Chen Zhengkai , Yan Qiangqiang , Yi Hong , Liu Zhanxiang , Lei Aiwen , Zhang Yuhong
Published: September 2014

An effective copper‐mediated synthesis of 1,5‐dialkyl‐4‐aryl‐1,2,3‐triazoles and 1,4‐dialkyl‐5‐aryl‐1,2,3‐triazoles has been achieved by the use of different N‐tosylhydrazones and alkyl amines. The scope of the substrates could be extended from anilines to aliphatic amines when 30 mol % amino acid is added into the reaction mixture. This methodology exhibits many notable features, such as broad substrates scope, high efficiency, and good regioselectivity. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicated that the reaction probably proceeded through a 1‐tosyl‐2‐vinyldiazene intermediate and subsequent aza‐Michael addition and NN bond formation process.
Cube‐in‐Cube Hollow Cu9S5 Nanostructures with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activities in Solar H2 Evolution
Authors: Xu Miao , Wang Min , Ye Tiannan , Liang Na , Jin Lun , Zai Jiantao , Qian Xuefeng
Published: September 2014

Hydrogen produced from water under solar energy is an ideal clean energy source, and the efficiency of hydrogen production usually depends on the catalytic systems based on new compounds and/or a unique nanostructure. Herein, well‐defined cube‐in‐cube hollow Cu9S5 nanostructures have been successfully prepared with Cu2O nanocubes and CS2 as precursors, and single‐shell hollow Cu9S5 nanocubes could be obtained by replacing CS2 with Na2S. The formation mechanism of cube‐in‐cube hollow nanostructures has been proposed based on the Kirkendell effect and an outward self‐assembly process. Further studies revealed that the cube‐in‐cube hollow Cu9S5 nanostructures exhibited better photocatalytic activity toward solar H2 evolution and would be a promising photocatalyst in the solar hydrogen industry.
(N‐Phosphinoamidinate)cobalt‐Catalyzed Hydroboration: Alkene Isomerization Affords Terminal Selectivity
Authors: Ruddy Adam J. , Sydora Orson L. , Small Brooke L. , Stradiotto Mark , Turculet Laura
Published: September 2014

Herein we establish the utility of a three‐coordinate (N‐phosphinoamidinate)cobalt(amido) pre‐catalyst that is capable of effecting challenging alkene isomerization/hydroboration processes at room temperature, leading to the selective terminal addition of the boron group.
Financing constraints and US cross‐listing
Authors: Charest Guy , Cosset Jean‐Claude , Marhfor Ahmed , M'Zali Bouchra
Published: September 2014

This study investigates whether relaxation of firms' financial constraints is an important outcome of the US cross‐listing mechanism. We use the association between investment spending and cash flow to test for the presence and importance of firms' financing constraints. Consistent with the bonding hypothesis, the results suggest that US exchange and private placement cross‐listings significantly alleviate firms' financing constraints. In addition, the financial benefits associated with exchange listings are larger than those associated with private listings, while on the other hand, over‐the‐counter programs do not improve capital allocation. The study also shows that US exchange cross‐listing benefits have not been eroded by the enactment of the Sarbanes‐Oxley (SOX) Act in 2002. Copyright © 2014 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of top management team traits on corporate financial performance in the US
Authors: Dhaouadi Karima
Published: September 2014

This article aims to study the effect of human capital on the financial performance of the most admired American firms. Human capital is measured in terms of the demographic attributes and the diversity of top managers. The use of panel linear multiple regressions reveals that the most successful firms are characterized by coherent and homogeneous top management teams with moderate tenure and excellent wages. Moreover, the heterogeneity of managers is recommended for fairly young top management teams and for larger firms operating in a turbulent environment. Copyright © 2014 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validation of mammalian target of rapamycin biomarker panel in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Haddad Ahmed Q. , Kapur Payal , Singla Nirmish , Raman Jay D. , Then Matthew T. , Nuhn Philipp , Buchner Alexander , Bastian Patrick , Seitz Christian , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Bensalah Karim , Rioux‐Leclercq Nathalie , Sagalowsky Arthur , Lotan Yair , Margulis Vitaly
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

This was an external validation of the prognostic benefit of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) marker panel in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC).

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry for 5 mTOR pathway markers was performed on tissue microarrays of patients with nonmetastatic ccRCC treated surgically at 4 centers. The markers employed were phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K), phosphorylated‐mTOR (p‐mTOR), phosphorylated‐S6 (p‐S6), and phosphorylated 4E‐binding protein‐1 (p‐4EBP1). Cox regression was used to correlate marker status and oncologic outcomes. Discrimination of the models was determined using area under the curve and net reclassification improvement.

RESULTS

Five hundred twenty‐eight patients with a median follow‐up of 56.5 months were included. Expression of PI3K, PTEN, p‐mTOR, p‐4EBP1, and p‐S6 was altered in 52%, 78%, 25%, 86%, and 30% of patients, respectively. The number of altered biomarkers predicted recurrence‐free survival (RFS) in multivariate analysis adjusted for stage, grade, and lymph node status (HR, 3.20; P = .02 for patients with 4‐5 altered biomarkers compared with 0‐1 altered markers). A biomarker panel consisting of only 2 markers (p‐S6 and p‐4EBP1) independently predicted for worse RFS (HR, 4.38; P = .003 for patients with 2 altered markers compared to patients with 0 altered markers). The biomarker score increased predictive accuracy when added to the clinical Cox regression model.

CONCLUSIONS

m‐TOR pathway biomarkers add prognostic information in addition to standard clinicopathologic variables in ccRCC patients and may identify patients who could benefit from additional treatments or closer postoperative surveillance. Cancer 2015;121:43–50. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Frequency of mutations in individuals with breast cancer referred for BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing using next‐generation sequencing with a 25‐gene panel
Authors: Tung Nadine , Battelli Chiara , Allen Brian , Kaldate Rajesh , Bhatnagar Satish , Bowles Karla , Timms Kirsten , Garber Judy E. , Herold Christina , Ellisen Leif , Krejdovsky Jill , DeLeonardis Kim , Sedgwick Kristin , Soltis Kathleen , Roa Benjamin , Wenstrup Richard J. , Hartman Anne‐Renee
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) allows for simultaneous sequencing of multiple cancer susceptibility genes and, for an individual, may be more efficient and less expensive than sequential testing. The authors assessed the frequency of deleterious germline mutations among individuals with breast cancer who were referred for BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) gene testing using a panel of 25 genes associated with inherited cancer predisposition.

METHODS

This was a cross‐sectional study using NGS in 2158 individuals, including 1781 who were referred for commercial BRCA1/2 gene testing (cohort 1) and 377 who had detailed personal and family history and had previously tested negative for BRCA1/2 mutations (cohort 2).

RESULTS

Mutations were identified in 16 genes, most frequently in BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, ATM, and PALB2. Among the participants in cohort 1, 9.3% carried a BRCA1/2 mutation, 3.9% carried a mutation in another breast/ovarian cancer susceptibility gene, and 0.3% carried an incidental mutation in another cancer susceptibility gene unrelated to breast or ovarian cancer. In cohort 2, the frequency of mutations in breast/ovarian‐associated genes other than BRCA1/2 was 2.9%, and an additional 0.8% had an incidental mutation. In cohort 1, Lynch syndrome‐related mutations were identified in 7 individuals. In contrast to BRCA1/2 mutations, neither age at breast cancer diagnosis nor family history of ovarian or young breast cancer predicted for other mutations. The frequency of mutations in genes other than BRCA1/2 was lower in Ashkenazi Jews compared with non‐Ashkenazi individuals (P=.026).

CONCLUSIONS

Using an NGS 25‐gene panel, the frequency of mutations in genes other than BRCA1/2 was 4.3%, and most mutations (3.9%) were identified in genes associated with breast/ovarian cancer. Cancer 2015;121:25–33. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Functionalizing the Surface of Lithium‐Metal Anodes
Authors: Buonaiuto Megan , Neuhold Susanna , Schroeder David J. , Lopez Carmen M. , Vaughey John T.
Published: September 2014

Metal–air batteries are one important aspect of many in moving beyond lithium‐ion research efforts. However, as our understanding of how molecular oxygen can act as a rechargeable cathode has progressed, the problems associated with how these materials at various states of charge interact with the lithium‐metal anode are only beginning to come to the surface. In this study we have devised a method to coat the surface of lithium with a functional group to act as either an anchor for further derivation studies or be polymerized to create a nanometer‐thick polymer coating attached to the surface by silane groups. These stable films, formed by polymerization of vinyl substituents, lower cell impedance at the electrode and over the first 50 cycles, increase cycling efficiency, and demonstrate lower‐capacity fade.
Shape‐Controlled Synthesis of Monodispersed Ultrasmall CaGd3F11 Nanocrystals for Potential Dual‐Modal Probes
Authors: Tian Yang , Yang Hong‐Yu , Yu Shanshan , Li Xia
Published: September 2014

The shape‐controlled synthesis of monodispersed CaGd3F11 nanocrystals by means of a solvothermal method is reported for the first time. Their morphologies can be controlled to spherical nanoparticles and one‐dimensional (1D) nanorods by tuning the volumes of oleic acid and octylamine in the reaction solution. Powder X‐ray diffraction demonstrated their hexagonal crystalline structure. Transmission electron microscopy showed their ultrasmall sizes (sub‐10 nm) and good monodispersity. The organic capping ligands on the CaGd3F11 surfaces were analyzed through infrared spectra and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Also investigated is the influence of oleic acid and octylamine on the morphology of CaGd3F11 nanocrystals. Upconversion (UC) luminescence and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performance that depend on the shapes of as‐prepared CaGd3F11 were studied further. CaGd3F11 nanoparticles and nanorods exhibited UC luminescence with green monochrome after doping with Yb3+ and Er3+ ions. The CaGd3F11 nanorods emitted a much higher UC intensity than the nanoparticles. The MRI relaxivity of CaGd3F11 nanorods was enhanced relative to that of nanoparticles.
Landscape variability explains spatial pattern of population structure of northern pike (Esox lucius) in a large fluvial system
Authors: Ouellet‐Cauchon Geneviève , Mingelbier Marc , Lecomte Frédéric , Bernatchez Louis
Published: September 2014

A growing number of studies have been investigating the influence of contemporary environmental factors on population genetic structure, but few have addressed the issue of spatial patterns in the variable intensity of factors influencing the extent of population structure, and particularly so in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we document the landscape genetics of northern pike (Esox lucius), based on the analysis of nearly 3000 individuals from 40 sampling sites using 22 microsatellites along the Lake Ontario – St. Lawrence River system (750 km) that locally presents diverse degrees of interannual water level variation. Genetic structure was globally very weak (FST = 0.0208) but spatially variable with mean level of differentiation in the upstream section of the studied area being threefold higher (FST = 0.0297) than observed in the downstream sector (FST = 0.0100). Beside interannual water level fluctuation, 19 additional variables were considered and a multiple regression on distance matrices model (R2 = 0.6397, P < 0.001) revealed that water masses (b = 0.3617, P < 0.001) and man‐made dams (b = 0.4852, P < 0.005) reduced genetic connectivity. Local level of interannual water level stability was positively associated to the extent of genetic differentiation (b = 0.3499, P < 0.05). As water level variation impacts on yearly quality and localization of spawning habitats, our study illustrates how temporal variation in local habitat availability, caused by interannual water level fluctuations, may locally decrease population genetic structure by forcing fish to move over longer distances to find suitable habitat. This study thus represents one of the rare examples of how environmental fluctuations may influence spatial variation in the extent of population genetic structure within a given species.
Patients' perceived level of social isolation affects the prognosis of low back pain
Authors: Oliveira V.C. , Ferreira M.L. , Morso L. , Albert H.B. , Refshauge K.M. , Ferreira P.H.
Published: September 2014

Background

Perceived social isolation is prevalent among patients with low back pain (LBP) and could be a potential prognostic factor for clinical outcomes following an episode of LBP.

Methods

A secondary analysis of an original prospective cohort study, which investigated the validity of the Danish version of the STarT Back Screening Tool (STarT), investigated whether social isolation predicts the clinical outcomes of disability, anxiety, depression and pain catastrophizing in people with LBP. Patients with LBP of any duration (N = 204) from Middelfart, Denmark, were included. Social isolation was measured at baseline using the friendship scale (score ranges from 0 to 24, with lower values meaning higher perceived social isolation), and outcomes were measured at baseline and at 6‐month follow‐up. Regression models investigated whether social isolation at baseline predicted the outcomes at 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

Some level of social isolation was reported by 39.2% of the participants (n = 80) with 5.9% (n = 12) being very socially isolated. One‐point difference on social isolation predicted one point on a 100‐point disability scale (adjusted unstandardized coefficient: −0.91; 95% confidence interval (CI): −1.56 to −0.26). Social isolation predicted anxiety; however, a change of one point on the social isolation scale represents a difference of only 0.08 points on a 22‐point scale in anxiety (95% CI: 0.01–0.15) and is unlikely to denote clinical importance. Social isolation did not predict pain catastrophizing or depression.

Conclusions

Patients' perceived social isolation predicts disability related to LBP. Further understanding of the role of social isolation in LBP is warranted.
Monolithic Composite Electrodes Comprising Silicon Nanoparticles Embedded in Lignin‐derived Carbon Fibers for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Rios Orlando , Martha Surendra K. , McGuire Michael A. , Tenhaeff Wyatt , More Karren , Daniel Claus , Nanda Jagjit
Published: September 2014

We report direct manufacturing of high‐capacity carbon/silicon composite fiber electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries produced via a flexible low‐cost melt processing route, yielding low‐cost stable silicon particles coated in situ by a 10 nanometer thick protective silica layer. The core–shell silicon/SiO2 islands are embedded in electrochemically active and electronically conductive carbon fiber derived from lignin precursor material. The silicon–silica–carbon composites exhibit capacities exceeding 700 mAh g−1 with Coulombic efficiencies in excess of 99.5 %. The high efficiency, stability, and rate capability are linked to the nanocrystalline structure and abundant, uniform nanometer‐thick SiO2 interfaces that are produced during the spinning and subsequent pyrolysis of the precursor blend.
Modeling of pressure build‐up and estimation of maximum injection rate for geological CO2 storage at the South Scania site, Sweden
Authors: Yang Zhibing , Niemi Auli , Tian Liang , Joodaki Saba , Erlström Mikael
Published: September 2014

Carbon dioxide (CO2) injection in deep saline formations causes pressure increase which may be detrimental to the mechanical integrity of the storage reservoir. Injection induced pressure build‐up is a limiting factor for CO2 injection rates and storage capacity. In this study, we extend a semi‐analytical solution (based on one‐dimensional, two‐phase, two‐component radial flow) for application to estimate pressure build‐up and maximum injection rate of CO2 at a field site (South Scania, Sweden) using the method of superposition of image well solutions to account for the straight‐line boundaries imposed by three fault zones. The semi‐analytical approach for estimating pressure build‐up is validated by comparison to numerical simulations based on TOUGH2‐ECO2N. We analyze injection pressure sensitivity due to uncertainty in reservoir parameters as well as boundary conditions. Maximum injection rates and pressure limited capacity estimates are presented. This work demonstrates the use of semi‐analytical solutions to analyze pressure limitation on storage capacity for realistic reservoirs with irregular (non‐circular) boundaries. It is also shown that the semi‐analytical approach can also be used to evaluate the benefit of having multiple injection wells in terms of increasing the injection‐pressure‐limited storage capacity. The methodology presented in this study is useful for screening analysis of storage sites as well as for operation design and optimization where pressure build‐up as a limiting factor influences the objective function.
Cognitive stimulation in cognitively impaired individuals and cognitively healthy individuals with a family history of dementia: short‐term results from the “Allena‐Mente” randomized controlled trial
Authors: Polito Letizia , Abbondanza Simona , Vaccaro Roberta , Valle Eleonora , Davin Annalisa , Degrate Alessandro , Villani Simona , Guaita Antonio
Published: September 2014

Objective

We evaluated the short‐term efficacy of a protocol of cognitive stimulation (CS), compared with a sham intervention, on cognitive performance in cognitively healthy individuals with a family history of dementia (NDFAM) and in non‐demented individuals with cognitive impairment (CI).

Methods

We performed a randomized controlled trial of CS in NDFAM and CI. CS consisted in 10 twice weekly meetings of CS focused on a specific cognitive area. CS was compared with a sham intervention (CT) using Mini‐mental state examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and the Corsi test. All study participants were typed for the presence of apolipoprotein E (APOE)‐Ɛ4.

Results

Cognitively healthy NDFAM showed a higher net cognitive gain after CS, as reflected in their MoCA score, and a borderline significant net increase in visuospatial memory (Corsi test) compared with those receiving the CT. APOE‐Ɛ4 carriers showed a less significant improvement on the Corsi test with respect to APOE‐Ɛ4 non‐carriers. In the CI sample, the MoCA and Corsi test results did not differ between the cognitively stimulated subjects and the controls. No changes in MMSE scores were found in either sample of subjects.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that CS as structured in this study is an effective treatment in cognitively healthy individuals, whereas it is less effective in individuals with CI. Moreover, evaluation of APOE‐Ɛ4 status provided evidence of a substantial genetic contribution to the efficacy of CS on visuospatial memory as measured using the Corsi test. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toward Mature Talent Management: Beyond Shareholder Value
Authors: Collings David G.
Published: September 2014

Talent management has become one of the most prevalent topics in the field of people management and development for practitioners and academics alike. However, while managers do appear to appreciate the importance of talent management, they often fail to manage it effectively, and the linkages between talent management and organizational performance remain unclear. In this invited feature article, I argue that the failure to effectively manage and develop talent can be traced, in part, to a narrow conceptualization of performance in much thinking on talent management. At an organizational level, this means that performance is generally considered solely in terms of shareholder returns while ignoring other stakeholders. This translates into HR systems that fail to effectively align individuals and organizations in the generation of value. This article foregrounds employees as stakeholders and argues that organizations that are defined by a sense of purpose and that prioritize employees as stakeholders generally have higher levels of alignment between organizational and employee goals with more highly motivated employees and ultimately more sustainable performance. Some implications for research on talent management are developed.
Effective run‐off flow length over biological soil crusts on silty loam soils in drylands
Authors: Lázaro Roberto , Calvo‐Cases Adolfo , Lázaro Amparo , Molina Isabel
Published: September 2014

Surface hydrological behaviour is important in drylands because it affects the distribution of soil moisture and vegetation and the hydrological functioning of slopes and catchments. Microplot scale run‐off can be relatively easily measured, i.e. by rainfall simulations. However, slope or catchment run‐off cannot be deduced from microplots, requiring long‐time monitoring, because run‐off coefficients decrease with increasing drainage area. Therefore, to determine the slope length covered by run‐off (run‐off length) is crucial to connect scales. Biological soil crusts (BSCs) are good model systems, and their hydrology at slope scale is insufficiently known. This study provides run‐off lengths from BSCs, by field factorial experiments using rainfall simulation, including two BSC types, three rain types, three antecedent soil moistures and four plot lengths. Data were analysed by generalized linear modelling, including vascular plant cover as covariates. Results were the following: (i) the real contributing area is almost always much smaller than the topographical contributing area; (ii) the BSC type is key to controlling run‐off; run‐off length reached 3 m on cyanobacterial crust, but hardly over 1 m on lichen crust; this pattern remained through rain type or soil moisture; (iii) run‐off decreased with BSC development because soil sealing disappears; porosity, biomass and roughness increase and some changes occur in the uppermost soil layer; and (iv) run‐off flow increased with both rain type and soil moisture but run‐off coefficient only with soil moisture (as larger rains increased both run‐off and infiltration); vascular plant cover had a slight effect on run‐off because it was low and random. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seasonal changes in runoff generation in a small forested mountain catchment
Authors: Penna D. , van Meerveld H. J. , Oliviero O. , Zuecco G. , Assendelft R. S. , Dalla Fontana G. , Borga M.
Published: September 2014

This study aimed to investigate the seasonal variability of runoff generation processes, the sources of stream water, and the controls on the contribution of event water to streamflow for a small forested catchment in the Italian pre‐Alps. Hydrometric, isotopic, and electrical conductivity data collected between August 2012 and August 2013 revealed a marked seasonal variability in runoff responses. Noticeable differences in runoff coefficients and hydrological dynamics between summer and fall/spring rainfall events were related to antecedent moisture conditions and event size. Two‐component and three‐component hydrograph separation and end‐member mixing analysis showed an increase in event water contributions to streamflow with event size and average rainfall intensity. Event water fractions were larger during dry conditions in the summer, suggesting that stormflow generation in the summer consisted predominantly of direct channel precipitation and some saturated overland flow from the riparian zone. On the contrary, groundwater and hillslope soil water contributions dominated the streamflow response during wet conditions in fall. Seasonal differences were also noted between event water fractions computed based on isotopic and electrical conductivity data, likely because of the dilution effect during the wetter months. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CO2 absorption of sandy soil induced by rainfall pulses in a desert ecosystem
Authors: Fa Ke‐Yu , Liu Jia‐Bin , Zhang Yu‐Qing , Wu Bin , Qin Shu‐Gao , Feng Wei , Lai Zong‐Rui
Published: September 2014

Soil CO2 flux is strongly influenced by precipitation in many ecosystem types, yet knowledge of the effects of precipitation on soil CO2 flux in semi‐arid desert ecosystems remains insufficient, particularly for sandy soils. To address this, we investigated the response of sandy soil CO2 flux to rainfall pulses in a desert ecosystem in northern China during August–September 2011. Significant changes (P < 0.05) were found in diel patterns of soil CO2 flux induced by small (2.1 mm), moderate (12.4 mm) and large (19.7 mm) precipitation events. Further analysis indicated that rainfall pulses modified the response of soil CO2 flux to soil temperature, including hysteresis between soil CO2 flux and soil temperature, with Fs higher when Ts was increasing than when Ts was decreasing, and the linear relationship between them. Moreover, our results showed that rainfall could result in absorption of atmospheric CO2 by soil, possibly owing to mass flow of CO2 induced by a gradient of gas pressure between atmosphere and soil. After each precipitation event, soil CO2 flux recovered exponentially to pre‐rainfall levels with time, with the recovery times exhibiting a positive correlation with precipitation amount. On the basis of the amounts of precipitation that occurred at our site during the measurement period (August–September), the accumulated rain‐induced carbon absorption evaluated for rainy days was 1.068 g C m−2; this corresponds approximately to 0.5–2.1% of the net primary production of a typical desert ecosystem. Thus, our results suggest that rainfall pulses can strongly influence carbon fluxes in desert ecosystems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunophenotyping does not improve predictivity of the local lymph node assay in mice
Authors: Strauss Volker , Kolle Susanne N. , Honarvar Naveed , Dammann Martina , Groeters Sibylle , Faulhammer Frank , Landsiedel Robert , van Ravenzwaay Bennard
Published: September 2014

The local lymph node assay (LLNA) is a regulatory accepted test for the identification of skin sensitizing substances by measuring radioactive thymidine incorporation into the lymph node. However, there is evidence that LLNA is overestimating the sensitization potential of certain substance classes in particular those exerting skin irritation. Some reports describe the additional use of flow cytometry‐based immunophenotyping to better discriminate irritants from sensitizing irritants in LLNA. In the present study, the 22 performance standards plus 8 surfactants were assessed using the radioactive LLNA method. In addition, lymph node cells were immunophenotyped to evaluate the specificity of the lymph node response using cell surface markers such as B220 or CD19, CD3, CD4, CD8, I‐Aκ and CD69 with the aim to allow a better discrimination above all between irritants and sensitizers, but also non‐irritating sensitizers and non‐sensitizers. However, the markers assessed in this study do not sufficiently differentiate between irritants and irritant sensitizers and therefore did not improve the predictive capacity of the LLNA. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A representative retinoid X receptor antagonist UVI3003 induced teratogenesis in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Zheng Liang , Xu Ting , Li Daoji , Zhou Junliang
Published: September 2014

Retinoid X receptor (RXR) interfering activity has been detected in different water resources. To study RXR disruptor‐induced toxicological effects on vertebrates, embryos of zebrafish (Danio rerio) were exposed to a representative RXR antagonist UVI3003. Results showed that the teratogenic index (LC50/EC50) of UVI3003 was as high as 5.4. UVI3003 induced multiple malformations of embryos, including deformed fins, reduced brains, small jaws, bent tails and edema in hearts, the degree of which became more severe with increasing exposure concentration. Although no significant difference was observed in the hatching rates between the exposure group and control, the whole body length was significantly reduced by 6.5% and 8.9% when exposed to 200 and 300 µg l−1 of UVI3003, respectively. The heart rate also significantly decreased by 8.8–50.2% during exposure. Further experiments revealed that the pharyngula stage was the most sensitive development phase in terms of embryo response to UVI3003. The results demonstrated severe teratogenicity of RXR antagonist in zebrafish embryos and provided important data for ecotoxicological evaluation of RXR antagonists. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection of occult hepatitis C virus among healthy spouses of patients with HCV infection
Authors: Shazly Yahia El , Hemida Khaled , Rafik Mona , Swaff Reham Al , Ali‐Eldin Zainab A. , GadAllah Shaimaa
Published: September 2014

The criterion standard for the diagnosis of occult hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is detection of HCV‐RNA in liver cells. However, because of the invasive nature of liver biopsy, other methods have been studied. The present study aimed to identify subjects with occult HCV‐4 infection among healthy sexual partners of patients with chronic HCV‐4 infection by detecting HCV‐RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Fifty healthy Egyptian spouses of patients with chronic HCV‐4 infection were included in this study. Real‐time PCR was used to detect HCV‐RNA in PBMCs in all the study subjects. The prevalence of occult HCV‐4 infection was 4%, and a statistically significant higher prevalence was found among patients with a history of sexually transmitted infection. The results of the present study indicate the importance of intra‐spousal transmission of HCV‐4 infection, especially in subjects with a history of sexually transmitted infection. J. Med. Virol. 87:424–427, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Antioxidant capacity of broccoli sprouts subjected to gastrointestinal digestion
Authors: Rychlik Joanna , Olejnik Anna , Olkowicz Mariola , Kowalska Katarzyna , Juzwa Wojciech , Myszka Kamila , Dembczyński Radosław , Moyer Mary Pat , Grajek Włodzimierz
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Broccoli is a common vegetable recognized as a rich source of antioxidants. To date, research on the antioxidant properties of broccoli, predominantly conducted on extracts, has not considered the lesions of composition and this activity after gastrointestinal digestion. Here the stability of antioxidants during gastrointestinal digestion was evaluated in conjunction with the protective effects of broccoli sprouts (BS) against oxidative stress in human colon cells.

RESULTS

The obtained data suggest that, among the biocompounds identified in BS, glucosinolates were mainly degraded under gastrointestinal digestion, while phenolics, particularly hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, were the most resistant constituents. The antioxidant capacity of BS extract subjected to gastrointestinal digestion was similar to or higher than that determined for non‐digested BS. Gastrointestinal digested BS extract exhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐inhibitory capacity in NCM460 human colon cells, with 1 mg mL−1 showing an ROS clearance of 76.59%. A 57.33% reduction in oxidative DNA damage in NCM460 cells due to treatment with digested BS extract was observed.

CONCLUSION

The results lend support to the possible application of BS as a rich source of antioxidants to improve the defensive system against oxidative stress in the human colon mucosa. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Economic evaluation of endoscopic sinus surgery versus continued medical therapy for refractory chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Rudmik Luke , Soler Zachary M. , Mace Jess C. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Smith Timothy L.
Published: September 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the long‐term cost‐effectiveness of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) compared to continued medical therapy for patients with refractory chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Study Design

Cohort‐style Markov decision‐tree economic evaluation.

Methods

The economic perspective was the U.S. third‐party payer with a 30‐year time horizon. The two comparative treatment strategies were: 1) ESS, followed by appropriate postoperative medical therapy; and 2) continued medical therapy alone. Primary outcome was the incremental cost per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY). Costs were discounted at a rate of 3.5% in the reference case. Multiple sensitivity analyses were performed, including differing time‐horizons, discounting scenarios, and a probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA).

Results

The reference case demonstrated that the ESS strategy cost a total of $48,838.38 and produced a total of 20.50 QALYs. The medical therapy alone strategy cost a total of $28,948.98 and produced a total of 17.13 QALYs. The incremental cost effectiveness ratio for ESS versus medical therapy alone is $5,901.90 per QALY. The cost‐effectiveness acceptability curve from the PSA demonstrated that there is a 74% certainty that the ESS strategy is the most cost‐effective decision for any willingness to pay a threshold greater than $25,000. The time‐horizon analysis suggests that ESS becomes the cost‐effective intervention within the third year after surgery.

Conclusion

Results from this study suggest that employing an ESS treatment strategy is the most cost‐effective intervention compared to continued medical therapy alone for the long‐term management of patients with refractory CRS.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 125:25–32, 2015
North Ethiopian Afro‐Alpine Tree Line Dynamics and Forest‐Cover Change Since the Early 20th Century
Authors: Jacob Miro , Frankl Amaury , Beeckman Hans , Mesfin Gebrekidan , Hendrickx Marijn , Guyassa Etefa , Nyssen Jan
Published: September 2014

High‐altitude forests are very important for local livelihood in the vulnerable environment of the densely populated tropical highlands. Humans need the ecosystem services of the forest and directly impact the forest through livestock herding, fire, and wood harvesting. Nevertheless, temperature‐sensitive tree lines in the tropics are scarcely investigated in comparison with higher northern latitudes. In this study, the Erica arborea L. tree line is studied in a tropical mountain in the North Ethiopian highlands: Lib Amba of the Abune Yosef Mountain range (12°04′N, 39°22′E, 3993 m asl). The present tree line and forest cover was recorded by high‐resolution satellite imagery from Google Maps and field data (2010–2013), while historical forest cover was studied from aerial photographs (1965–1982) and repeat photography (1917–2013). The aerial and satellite images were orthorectified and classified in forest/non‐forest binary maps. The binary forest layers were used to detect forest‐cover change and tree line dynamics by image differencing between the three time layers (1965–1982–2010). These maps and a terrestrial photograph indicate two periods of deforestation (1917–1965 and 1982–2013), whereas the forest cover was stable between 1965 and 1982. Deforestation was especially severe (with 63%) between 1982 and 2010, associated with a population increase from 77 to 153 inhabitants per square km. There is significant evidence that the elevation of the E. arborea L. tree line increased from 7 to 15 vertical meters between 1965 and 2010, in an area with decreasing anthropozoogenic pressure. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Discovery of Novel Mycobacterial DNA Gyrase B Inhibitors: In Silico and In Vitro Biological Evaluation
Authors: Saxena Shalini , Renuka Janupally , Yogeeswari Perumal , Sriram Dharmarajan
Published: September 2014

DNA gyrase of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is a type II topoisomerase that ensures the regulation of DNA topology and has been genetically demonstrated to be a bactericidal drug target. Availability of crystal structure of M. smegmatics GyrB in complex with one of the aminopyrazinamides facilitated us to employ structure‐based virtual screening approach to obtain new hits from a commercial library of Asinex database using energy‐optimized pharmacophore modeling. Further the model was validated using enrichment calculations, and finally three models were employed for high‐throughput virtual screening and docking to identify novel DNA gyrase B inhibitors. This study led to the identification of fifteen potential compounds with IC50 values in the range of 1.5–45.5 µM against M. smegmatics GyrB and 1.16–25 µM in MTB supercoiling assay. Lead 11 emerged as the most potential compound, exhibiting inhibition of MTB DNA gyrase supercoiling with an IC50 of 1.16±0.25 µM, and M. smegmatics GyrB IC50 of 1.5±0.12 µM and hence could be further developed as novel inhibitor for mycobacterial GyrB.
C‐terminal agrin fragment is inversely related to neuromuscular fatigue in older men
Authors: Stout Jeffrey R. , Fragala Maren S. , Hoffman Jay R. , Robinson Edward H. , Mccormack William P. , Townsend Jeremy R. , Jatjner Adam R. , Emerson Nadia S. , Oliveira Leonardo P. , Fukuda David H.
Published: September 2014

Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between serum C‐terminal agrin fragment (CAF) concentrations and neuromuscular fatigue in older adults. Methods: Twenty‐two healthy older men and women volunteered for this study. Resting fasted blood samples were collected and prepared for measurement of serum CAF concentration by a commercially available ELISA kit. The onset of neuromuscular fatigue was measured by monitoring electromyographic fatigue curves from the vastus lateralis muscle using the physical working capacity at fatigue threshold (PWCFT) test. Results: A significant inverse correlation for men was observed between CAF and PWCFT (r = −0.602; P = 0.05), but not for women (r = 0.208; P = 0.54). After controlling for age and body mass index, significant correlations (r = −0.69; P = 0.042) remained for men, but not for women (r = 0.12; P = 0.76). Conclusions: These data suggest that serum CAF concentrations were significantly related to the onset of neuromuscular fatigue independent of age and BMI in men only. Muscle Nerve 51: 132–133, 2015
Non‐invasive assessment of muscle stiffness in patients with duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Lacourpaille Lilian , Hug François , Guével Arnaud , Péréon Yann , Magot Armelle , Hogrel Jean‐Yves , Nordez Antoine
Published: September 2014

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Assessment of muscle mechanical properties may provide clinically valuable information for follow‐up of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) through the course of their disease. In this study we aimed to assess the effect of DMD on stiffness of relaxed muscles using elastography (supersonic shear imaging). Methods: Fourteen DMD patients and 13 control subjects were studied. Six muscles were measured at 2 muscle lengths (shortened and stretched): gastrocnemius medialis (GM); tibialis anterior (TA); vastus lateralis (VL); biceps brachii (BB); triceps brachii (TB); and abductor digiti minimi (ADM). Results: Stiffness was significantly higher in DMD patients compared with controls for all the muscles (main effect for population, P < 0.033 in all cases), except for ADM. The effect size was small (d = 0.33 for ADM at both muscle lengths) to large (d = 0.86 for BB/stretched). Conclusions: Supersonic shear imaging is a sensitive non‐invasive technique to assess the increase in muscle stiffness associated with DMD. Muscle Nerve 51: 284–286, 2015
Novel CHKB mutation expands the megaconial muscular dystrophy phenotype
Authors: Cabrera‐Serrano Macarena , Junckerstorff Reimar C. , Atkinson Vanessa , Sivadorai Padma , Allcock Richard J. , Lamont Phillipa , Laing Nigel G.
Published: September 2014

Introduction: Mutations in the choline kinase beta (CHKB) gene are associated with a congenital muscular dystrophy with giant mitochondria at the periphery of muscle fibers. Methods: We describe a patient of Italian origin in whom whole‐exome sequencing revealed a novel homozygous nonsense mutation, c.648C>A, p.(Tyr216*), in exon 5 of CHKB. Results: The patient presented with limb‐girdle weakness and hypotonia from birth with mental retardation, and had sudden and transient deteriorations of muscle strength with acute intercurrent illnesses. Previously undescribed sarcolemmal overexpression of utrophin was noted in the muscle biopsy. Conclusions: Pathological features broaden the description of the entity and provide new insight in the pathogenic mechanisms. This case highlights the usefulness of next‐generation sequencing in the diagnosis of rare and incompletely understood conditions. Muscle Nerve 51: 140–143, 2015
A practical hybrid predictive control algorithm for a low‐temperature thermosolar plant
Authors: Álvarez J. D. , Pasamontes M. , Guzmán J. L. , Camacho E. F.
Published: September 2014

This work presents a control approach to deal with plants formed by several interconnected subprocesses and where the interconnection between subprocesses can change during the plant operation. The change from one operation mode to another, where each operation mode is defined by a discrete variable set, implies a change in the process behaviour that must be counteracted by the control system. In this work, a practical hybrid model predictive control is proposed to take the behaviour changes related to the hybrid nature of the process into account. The proposed control algorithm is based on the adaptation of several well‐known control strategies that have been successfully applied in the industrial field. A solar thermal system (composed of a solar thermal flat collector field, one or more accumulation tanks connected in series and a gas heater) is used to show the resulting control strategy through detailed simulations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fitness costs of reproductive capacity and ovarian development in a Bt‐resistant strain of the cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Zhang Wanna , Ma Long , Zhong Feng , Wang Yanan , Guo Yuyuan , Lu Yanhui , Liang Gemei
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

The cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera has developed resistance to the insecticidal Cry1Ac toxins produced by Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in China. To gain a better understanding of the fitness cost associated with resistance evolution, reproductive capacities and ovarian development were examined in four strains of H. armigera: a Cry1Ac‐susceptible strain (96S); a Cry1Ac‐resistant strain fed on an artificial diet with Cry1Ac toxin for 135 generations (BtR); two strains derived from BtR: a strain grown without Cry1Ac selection for 38 generations (CK1) and a strain grown for one generation without Cry1Ac selection (CK2).

RESULTS

Strains 96S and CK1 had similar reproductive capacity and Cry1Ac susceptibility. Compared with the 96S and CK1 strains, the fecundity and hatching rate of CK2 were respectively more than 30% and 50% lower. Moreover, the number of eggs laid by BtR was significantly lower than the number of eggs laid by 96S and CK1, but higher than the number of eggs laid by CK2. In accordance with the differences in reproductive capacity, ovarian development in CK2 and BtR was significantly delayed.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that there was a fitness cost in the reproductive physiology in the resistant strains. Reversion to susceptibility to the Bt Cry‐toxin in the resistant CK1 strain was associated with an increase in reproductive capacity. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
The sensitivity of nocturnal low‐level jets and near‐surface winds over the Sahel to model resolution, initial conditions and boundary‐layer set‐up
Authors: Schepanski K. , Knippertz P. , Fiedler S. , Timouk F. , Demarty J.
Published: September 2014

This study explores simulations using the numerical Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, with respect to the representation of the nocturnal low‐level jet (LLJ) over the Sahel. Three sets of experiments are designed to investigate the sensitivity with respect to (i) the boundary‐layer and surface‐layer schemes including local and non‐local closures, (ii) the horizontal grid spacing and the number of vertical levels within the lowest kilometre and (iii) the role of initial and boundary data. In total, 27 simulations are performed on one host domain and two nested domains for a representative LLJ case study on 9 November 2006. The ability of the individual simulations to represent the life cycle of the nocturnal LLJ is validated against observations carried out in the framework of the African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analysis (AMMA) special observation periods: surface wind observations from Agoufou, Bamba and Banizoumbou, atmospheric wind profiles derived from Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Mobile Facility, wind radar measurements at Niamey and profiles from radiosondes launched at Niamey. All runs reproduce the general characteristics of the observed LLJs satisfactorily. In contrast to earlier studies, results are more sensitive to the choice of initial and boundary data (here GFS and ECMWF) than to the boundary‐layer and surface schemes used or to model grid resolution. The sensitivity to the model grid resolution is surprisingly minor. Considerable differences between the individual stations suggest that local surface conditions such as roughness length, albedo or soil moisture may play an important role in the observed mismatch between model simulations and observations.
Biosynthesis of Ribosomal RNA in Nucleoli Regulates Pluripotency and Differentiation Ability of Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Watanabe-Susaki Kanako , Takada Hitomi , Enomoto Kei , Miwata Kyoko , Ishimine Hisako , Intoh Atsushi , Ohtaka Manami , Nakanishi Mahito , Sugino Hiromu , Asashima Makoto , Kurisaki Akira
Published: September 2014

Pluripotent stem cells have been shown to have unique nuclear properties, for example, hyperdynamic chromatin and large, condensed nucleoli. However, the contribution of the latter unique nucleolar character to pluripotency has not been well understood. Here, we show that fibrillarin (FBL), a critical methyltransferase for ribosomal RNA (rRNA) processing in nucleoli, is one of the proteins highly expressed in pluripotent embryonic stem (ES) cells. Stable expression of FBL in ES cells prolonged the pluripotent state of mouse ES cells cultured in the absence of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). Analyses using deletion mutants and a point mutant revealed that the methyltransferase activity of FBL regulates stem cell pluripotency. Knockdown of this gene led to significant delays in rRNA processing, growth inhibition, and apoptosis in mouse ES cells. Interestingly, both partial knockdown of FBL and treatment with actinomycin D, an inhibitor of rRNA synthesis, induced the expression of differentiation markers in the presence of LIF and promoted stem cell differentiation into neuronal lineages. Moreover, we identified p53 signaling as the regulatory pathway for pluripotency and differentiation of ES cells. These results suggest that proper activity of rRNA production in nucleoli is a novel factor for the regulation of pluripotency and differentiation ability of ES cells. Stem Cells  2014;32:3099–3111