bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiparameter flow cytometry provides independent prognostic information in patients with suspected myelodysplastic syndromes: A study on 804 patients
Authors: Kern Wolfgang , Bacher Ulrike , Haferlach Claudia , Alpermann Tamara , Schnittger Susanne , Haferlach Torsten
Published: January 2015

Diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) relies on well‐defined cytomorphologic criteria but is challenging in a significant number of patients. The detection of aberrant antigen expression by multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC) is considered a promising tool to improve MDS diagnostics. We prospectively analyzed 804 unselected patients sent with suspected MDS for correlation of MFC findings with overall survival (OS) in the context of cytomorphologic and cytogenetic findings. Patients with evidence of MDS by MFC had a significantly worse OS as compared to those without (OS at 2 years, 71.2% vs. 89.4%;P < 0.001). The number of aberrantly expressed antigens as a continuous variable was significantly associated with OS [P < 0.001, hazards ratio (HR): 1.19 per additional aberrantly expressed antigen]. Multivariate analysis proved a diagnosis of MDS by MFC to be independently associated with OS (P = 0.050; HR: 1.42). Furthermore, a diagnosis of MDS by MFC was related to inferior survival within all three cytomorphologically defined subgroups, i.e., proven MDS (median OS, 45.4 vs. 52.8 months,P < 0.001), suspected MDS (2‐year‐OS, 75.0% vs. 82.8%;P = 0.062), and MDS excluded (2‐year‐OS, 63.5% vs. 92.8%,P = 0.020). Our data clearly demonstrate that, in the assessment of cytopenic patients with suspected MDS, a diagnosis of MDS by MFC is independently associated with OS, which had been shown in previous studies for today's standard diagnostic parameters cytomorphology and cytogenetics. MFC may, therefore, be considered an additional tool in the diagnostic workup of patients with suspected MDS. © 2014 International Clinical Cytometry Society
How integrated are behavioral and endocrine stress response traits? A repeated measures approach to testing the stress‐coping style model
Authors: Boulton Kay , Couto Elsa , Grimmer Andrew J. , Earley Ryan L. , Canario Adelino V. M. , Wilson Alastair J. , Walling Craig A.
Published: January 2015

It is widely expected that physiological and behavioral stress responses will be integrated within divergent stress‐coping styles (SCS) and that these may represent opposite ends of a continuously varying reactive–proactive axis. If such a model is valid, then stress response traits should be repeatable and physiological and behavioral responses should also change in an integrated manner along a major axis of among‐individual variation. While there is some evidence of association between endocrine and behavioral stress response traits, few studies incorporate repeated observations of both. To test this model, we use a multivariate, repeated measures approach in a captive‐bred population of Xiphophorus birchmanni. We quantify among‐individual variation in behavioral stress response to an open field trial (OFT) with simulated predator attack (SPA) and measure waterborne steroid hormone levels (cortisol, 11‐ketotestosterone) before and after exposure. Under the mild stress stimulus (OFT), (multivariate) behavioral variation among individuals was consistent with a strong axis of personality (shy–bold) or coping style (reactive–proactive) variation. However, behavioral responses to a moderate stressor (SPA) were less repeatable, and robust statistical support for repeatable endocrine state over the full sampling period was limited to 11‐ketotestosterone. Although post hoc analysis suggested cortisol expression was repeatable over short time periods, qualitative relationships between behavior and glucocorticoid levels were counter to our a priori expectations. Thus, while our results clearly show among‐individual differences in behavioral and endocrine traits associated with stress response, the correlation structure between these is not consistent with a simple proactive–reactive axis of integrated stress‐coping style. Additionally, the low repeatability of cortisol suggests caution is warranted if single observations (or indeed repeat measures over short sampling periods) of glucocorticoid traits are used in ecological or evolutionary studies focussed at the individual level.
Heart failure and dementia: survival in relation to types of heart failure and different dementia disorders
Authors: Cermakova Pavla , Lund Lars H. , Fereshtehnejad Seyed‐Mohammad , Johnell Kristina , Winblad Bengt , Dahlström Ulf , Eriksdotter Maria , Religa Dorota
Published: January 2015

Aims

Heart failure (HF) and dementia frequently coexist, but little is known about their types, relationships to each other and prognosis. The aims were to (i) describe patients with HF and dementia, assess (ii) the proportion of specific dementia disorders in types of HF based on ejection fraction and (iii) the prognostic role of types of HF and dementia disorders.

Methods and results

The Swedish Heart Failure Registry (RiksSvikt) and The Swedish Dementia Registry (SveDem) were record‐linked. Associations between dementia disorders and HF types were assessed with multinomial logistic regression and survival was investigated with Kaplan–Meier analysis and multivariable Cox regression. We studied 775 patients found in both registries (55% men, mean age 82 years). Ejection fraction was preserved in 38% of patients, reduced in 34%, and missing in 28%. The proportions of dementia disorders were similar across HF types. Vascular dementia was the most common dementia disorder (36%), followed by other dementias (28%), mixed dementia (20%), and Alzheimer disease (16%). Over a mean follow‐up of 1.5 years, 76% of patients survived 1 year. We observed no significant differences in survival with regard to HF type (P = 0.2) or dementia disorder (P = 0.5). After adjustment for baseline covariates, neither HF types nor dementia disorders were independently associated with survival.

Conclusions

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction was the most common HF type and vascular dementia was the most common dementia disorder. The proportions of dementia disorders were similar across HF types. Neither HF types nor specific dementia disorders were associated with survival.
The supramolecular chemistry of lipid oxidation and antioxidation in bulk oils
Authors: Budilarto Elizabeth S. , Kamal‐Eldin Afaf
Published: January 2015

The microenvironment formed by surface active compounds is being recognized as the active site of lipid oxidation. Trace amounts of water occupy the core of micro micelles and several amphiphilic minor components (e.g., phospholipids, monoacylglycerols, free fatty acids, etc.) act as surfactants and affect lipid oxidation in a complex fashion dependent on the structure and stability of the microemulsions in a continuous lipid phase such as bulk oil. The structures of the triacylglycerols and other lipid‐soluble molecules affect their organization and play important roles during the course of the oxidation reactions. Antioxidant head groups, variably located near the water‐oil colloidal interfaces, trap and scavenge radicals according to their location and concentration. According to this scenario, antioxidants inhibit lipid oxidation not only by scavenging radicals via hydrogen donation but also by physically stabilizing the micelles at the microenvironments of the reaction sites. There is a cut‐off effect (optimum value) governing the inhibitory effects of antioxidants depending inter alias on their hydrophilic/lipophilic balance and their concentrations. These complex effects, previously considered as paradoxes in antioxidants research, are now better explained by the supramolecular chemistry of lipid oxidation and antioxidants, which is discussed in this review.

The evolution of micellar size and number during and after the induction period of lipid oxidation. Amphiphilic compounds, including lipid hydroperoxides, contribute to micelle formation and act as prooxidants. Antioxidants and retarders stabilize micelles and prevent their breakdown.
Modeled methylmercury exposure and risk from rice consumption for vulnerable populations in a traditional fish-eating area in China
Authors: Tong Yin-Dong , Ou Lang-Bo , Chen Long , Wang Huan-Huan , Chen Cen , Wang Xue-Jun , Zhang Wei , Wang Qi-Guang
Published: January 2015

The circulation of rice from contaminated areas could escalate exposure risk from a local problem to a national issue and affect a wider population beyond the region of origin, as confirmed by the “Poison Rice Incident” in May 2013 in Guangzhou, China. In the present study, the authors established a food chain model based on the aquivalence method to identify major sources of methylmercury (MeHg), estimate the levels of MeHg, and quantify exposure to MeHg via rice and aquatic food consumption. Different types of organism samples from the Haihe River also were collected to verify the calculated values. The MeHg intake in pregnant women was 1529.1 ng/d from the aquatic food chain and as high as 2804.0 ng/d from rice, although the intake varied among scenarios. The maximum possible MeHg concentration in the blood of pregnant women was 5.21 µg/L, higher than the threshold value of MeHg recommended by the US Environmental Protection Agency (4.4 µg/L), which indicated that pregnant women could face risk from MeHg exposure. The authors also assessed the risk of MeHg exposure in pregnant women and their breastfed infants using a new index, HQEquivalent. In 4 scenarios, the HQEquivalent indices ranged from 0.42 to 1.18 for pregnant women and from 0.29 to 0.83 for breastfed infants. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1161–1168. © 2014 SETAC
Time Pro‐rata Matching: Evidence of a Change in LIFFE STIR Futures
Authors: Aspris Angelo , Foley Sean , Harris Drew , O'Neill Peter
Published: January 2015

Matching algorithms are important for well‐functioning financial markets. This paper examines the 2007 change by LIFFE, to move from pure pro‐rata to time pro‐rata allocation for the Euribor, Short Sterling, and Euroswiss futures contracts. We show that the removal of pure pro‐rata matching reduces market depth but suggest that this outcome improves execution quality for market participants. Our results are consistent with suggestions in the literature that the former regime creates incentives for traders to “drown” the order book with large orders and that the addition of a time element to this algorithm alters their behavior. We provide evidence that traders increase the amount of order splitting in the new framework, consistent with local optimizing, but argue that this may hinder overall market efficiency. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 35:522–541, 2015
Income Transfers and Maternal Health: Evidence from a National Randomized Social Cash Transfer Program in Zambia
Authors: Handa Sudhanshu , Peterman Amber , Seidenfeld David , Tembo Gelson
Published: January 2015

There is promising recent evidence that poverty‐targeted social cash transfers have potential to improve maternal health outcomes; however, questions remain surrounding design features responsible for impacts. In addition, virtually no evidence exists from the African region. This study explores the impact of Zambia's Child Grant Program on a range of maternal health utilization outcomes using a randomized design and difference‐in‐differences multivariate regression from data collected over 24 months from 2010 to 2012. Results indicate that while there are no measurable program impacts among the main sample, there are heterogeneous impacts on skilled attendance at birth among a sample of women residing in households having better access to maternal health services. The latter result is particularly interesting because of the overall low level of health care availability in program areas suggesting that dedicated program design or matching supply‐side interventions may be necessary to leverage unconditional cash transfers in similar settings to impact maternal health. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Current practices in venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery
Authors: Garritano Frank G. , Andrews Genevieve A.
Published: January 2015

Background

There has been recent investigation into the incidence of venous thromboembolism in otolaryngology, but the current utilization of venous thromboembolic (VTE) prophylaxis among practicing otolaryngologists remains largely unknown.

Methods

A survey of 26 questions was emailed to 4376 otolaryngologists.

Results

A total of 4376 surveys were sent and 676 were returned for a response rate of 15.4%. Intraoperative prophylaxis was used by 535 respondents (83%), either with intermittent pneumatic compression (91.8%), compression stockings (35.9%), or low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH; 12.3%). Postoperative prophylaxis was used by 540 respondents (85.4%), either with early ambulation (87.8%), intermittent pneumatic compression (85.4%), compression stockings (43.3%), or LMWH (42.4%). The vast majority (88.3%) stated they would find thromboprophylaxis guidelines released by the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery to be helpful.

Conclusion

Current practices in venous thromboembolism prophylaxis vary widely among the otolaryngology community. A set of clear specialty‐specific guidelines may be helpful. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E341–E345, 2016
Diagnostic value of core needle biopsy and fine‐needle aspiration in salivary gland lesions
Authors: Novoa Eva , Gürtler Nicolas , Arnoux André , Kraft Marcel
Published: January 2015

Background

Core needle biopsy (CNB) has gained acceptance as a minimally invasive procedure in the head and neck. Nevertheless, many concerns arise regarding the value and safety of this method in the assessment of salivary gland lesions.

Methods

This prospective study comprises 111 patients with a salivary gland lesion. The results of ultrasound‐guided CNB were compared with those of fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) in the 103 histologically verified cases.

Results

CNB achieved a higher accuracy than FNA in identifying true neoplasms (98% vs 91%) and detecting malignancy (99% vs 87%), and was also superior to FNA providing a specific diagnosis (93% vs 74%). In both methods, no complications, such as bleeding, infection, nerve injury, or tumor‐cell seeding, occurred.

Conclusion

CNB is a simple, safe, and highly accurate procedure, which should be considered as an additional diagnostic tool in the assessment of salivary gland lesions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E346–E352, 2016
Electrophysiologic analysis of injury to cranial nerve XI during neck dissection
Authors: Lanisnik Bostjan , Zargi Miha , Rodi Zoran
Published: January 2015

Background

Despite preservation of the accessory nerve, a considerable number of patients report partial nerve damage after modified radical neck dissection (MRND) and selective neck dissection.

Methods

Accessory nerve branches for the trapezius muscle were stimulated during neck dissection, and the M wave amplitude was measured during distinct surgical phases.

Results

The accessory nerve was mapped in 20 patients. The M wave recordings indicated that major nerve damage occurred during dissection at levels IIa and IIb in the most proximal segment of the nerve. The M waves evoked from this nerve segment decreased significantly during surgery (analysis of variance; p = .001).

Conclusion

The most significant intraoperative injury to the accessory nerve during neck dissection occurs at anatomic nerve levels IIa and IIb. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E372–E376, 2016
Photodynamic therapy with 3‐(1′‐hexyloxyethyl) pyropheophorbide‐a for early‐stage cancer of the larynx: Phase Ib study
Authors: Shafirstein Gal , Rigual Nestor R. , Arshad Hassan , Cooper Michele T. , Bellnier David A. , Wilding Gregory , Tan Wei , Merzianu Mihai , Henderson Barbara W.
Published: January 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was for us to report results regarding the safety of 3‐(1′‐hexyloxyethyl) pyropheophorbide‐a (HPPH) mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) in early laryngeal disease, and offer preliminary information on treatment responses.

Methods

A single‐institution, phase Ib, open label, noncomparative study of HPPH‐PDT in patients with high‐risk dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, and T1 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the larynx. The primary outcomes were safety and maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and the secondary outcome was response.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients and 30 lesions were treated. The most common adverse event (AE) was transient hoarseness of voice. Severe edema, requiring tracheostomy, was the most serious AE, which occurred in 2 patients within several hours of therapy. The MTD was 100 J/cm2. Patients with T1 SCC seemed to have good complete response rate (82%) to HPPH‐PDT at MTD.

Conclusion

HPPH‐PDT can be safely used to treat early‐stage laryngeal cancer, with potential efficacy. © 2015 The Authors Head & Neck Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E377–E383, 2016
ATM, THMS, and RRM1 protein expression in nasopharyngeal carcinomas treated with curative intent
Authors: Ko Jenny Jaeeun , Klimowicz Alexander C. , Jagdis Amanda , Phan Tien , Laskin Janessa , Lau Harold Y. , Siever Jodi E. , Petrillo Stephanie K. , Thomson Thomas A. , Rose M. Sarah , Bebb Gwyn , Magliocco Anthony M. , Hao Desirée
Published: January 2015

Background

In advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), biomarkers may help predict survival.

Methods

Tumoral expression of ataxia‐telangiectasia mutated (ATM), thymidylate synthetase (THMS), and ribonucleotide reductase subunit M1 (RRM1), was correlated with survival in patients with nonmetastatic NPC using quantitative fluorescence immunohistochemistry with automated quantitative digital image analysis.

Results

Of the 146 patients included, 58 patients (40%) received concurrent chemoradiation therapy; the remainder was treated with radiation. Overall survival (OS) at 5 years was 71% (95% confidence interval [CI], 62% to 78%); disease‐free survival (DFS) was 48% (95% CI, 39% to 57%). OS worsened for increasing values of ATM (hazard ratio [HR], 2.83; 95% CI, 1.01–7.94; p = .049) for values greater than the 75th percentile compared to less than the 25th percentile, but improved for tumors with higher THMS levels (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.20–0.94; p = .033) for values greater than the 25th percentile compared to less than or equal to the 25th percentile. RRM1 was not associated with OS (p = .748). No biomarkers were associated with DFS.

Conclusion

In our cohort, relative overexpression of ATM and low THMS levels were associated with worse OS. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E384–E391, 2016
Intratumoral lymphatic vessel density as a predictor of progression‐free and overall survival in locally advanced laryngeal/hypopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Hurst Newton J. , Dominello Michael , Dyson Gregory , Jaratli Hayan , Sharma Meenu , Ahmed Yasin K. , Melkane Antoine E. , Rose Christopher , Jacobs John , Giorgadze Tamar , Kim Harold
Published: January 2015

Background

Lymphatic vessel density (LVD) has been shown to be an important predictor of survival in head and neck cancers. We report the predictive value of LVD for progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in laryngeal/hypopharyngeal cancer.

Methods

Fifty‐five untreated patients with T3/T4 laryngeal and T4 hypopharyngeal cancer underwent laryngectomy between 1999 and 2010. Surgical specimens were immunostained with D2‐40, a specific lymphatic marker. LVDs were determined in tumor vessel “hot spots.” Recursive partitioning analysis identified LVD thresholds for both peritumoral (LVDpt) and intratumoral (LVDit) vessels for association with PFS and OS.

Results

Patients with mean LVDit of <11 vessels/mm2 had 2‐year PFS and OS rates of 58% and 65%, respectively, compared to 13% and 13% for those with LVDit ≥11 vessels/mm2 (p = .06 and .04, respectively).

Conclusion

Intratumoral lymphatic vessel density is predictive of PFS and OS in locally advanced laryngeal/hypopharyngeal cancer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E417–E420, 2016
Experimental transmission of equine hepacivirus in horses as a model for hepatitis C virus
Authors: Ramsay Joshua D. , Evanoff Ryan , Wilkinson Tom E. , Divers Thomas J. , Knowles Donald P. , Mealey Robert H.
Published: January 2015

Equine hepacivirus (EHCV; nonprimate hepacivirus) is a hepatotropic member of the Flaviviridae family that infects horses. Although EHCV is the closest known relative to hepatitis C virus (HCV), its complete replication kinetics in vivo have not been described, and direct evidence that it causes hepatitis has been lacking. In this study, we detected EHCV in 2 horses that developed post‐transfusion hepatitis. Plasma and serum from these horses were used to experimentally transmit EHCV to 4 young adult Arabian horses, two 1‐month‐old foals (1 Arabian and 1 Arabian‐pony cross), and 2 foals (1 Arabian and 1 Arabian‐pony cross) with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Our results demonstrated that EHCV had infection kinetics similar to HCV and that infection was associated with acute and chronic liver disease as measured by elevations of liver‐specific enzymes and/or by histopathology. Although most of these animals were coinfected with equine pegivirus (EPgV), also a flavivirus, EPgV viral loads were much lower and often undetectable in both liver and blood. Three additional young adult Arabian‐pony crosses and 1 SCID foal were then inoculated with plasma containing only EHCV, and evidence of mild hepatocellular damage was observed. The different levels of liver‐specific enzyme elevation, hepatic inflammation, and duration of viremia observed during EHCV infection suggested that the magnitude and course of liver disease was mediated by the virus inoculum and/or by host factors, including breed, age, and adaptive immune status. Conclusion: This work documents the complete infection kinetics and liver pathology associated with acute and chronic EHCV infection in horses and further justifies it as a large animal model for HCV. (Hepatology 2015;61:1533–1546)
Impaired uptake of conjugated bile acids and hepatitis b virus pres1‐binding in na+‐taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide knockout mice
Authors: Slijepcevic Davor , Kaufman Christina , Wichers Catharina G.K. , Gilglioni Eduardo H. , Lempp Florian A. , Duijst Suzanne , de Waart Dirk R. , Oude Elferink Ronald P.J. , Mier Walter , Stieger Bruno , Beuers Ulrich , Urban Stephan , van de Graaf Stan F.J.
Published: January 2015

The Na+‐taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) mediates uptake of conjugated bile acids (BAs) and is localized at the basolateral membrane of hepatocytes. It has recently been recognized as the receptor mediating hepatocyte‐specific entry of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis delta virus. Myrcludex B, a peptide inhibitor of hepatitis B virus entry, is assumed to specifically target NTCP. Here, we investigated BA transport and Myrcludex B binding in the first Slc10a1‐knockout mouse model (Slc10a1 encodes NTCP). Primary Slc10a1−/−
hepatocytes showed absence of sodium‐dependent taurocholic acid uptake, whereas sodium‐independent taurocholic acid uptake was unchanged. In vivo, this was manifested as a decreased serum BA clearance in all knockout mice. In a subset of mice, NTCP deficiency resulted in markedly elevated total serum BA concentrations, mainly composed of conjugated BAs. The hypercholanemic phenotype was rapidly triggered by a diet supplemented with ursodeoxycholic acid. Biliary BA output remained intact, while fecal BA excretion was reduced in hypercholanemic Slc10a1−/−
mice, explained by increased Asbt and Ostα/β expression. These mice further showed reduced Asbt expression in the kidney and increased renal BA excretion. Hepatic uptake of conjugated BAs was potentially affected by down‐regulation of OATP1A1 and up‐regulation of OATP1A4. Furthermore, sodium‐dependent taurocholic acid uptake was inhibited by Myrcludex B in wild‐type hepatocytes, while Slc10a1−/−
hepatocytes were insensitive to Myrcludex B. Finally, positron emission tomography showed a complete abrogation of hepatic binding of labeled Myrcludex B in Slc10a1‐/‐
mice. Conclusion: The Slc10a1‐knockout mouse model supports the central role of NTCP in hepatic uptake of conjugated BAs and hepatitis B virus preS1/Myrcludex B binding in vivo; the NTCP‐independent hepatic BA uptake machinery maintains a (slower) enterohepatic circulation of BAs, although it is occasionally insufficient to clear BAs from the circulation. (Hepatology 2015;62:207–219)
Altered hepatic gene expression in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with lower hepatic n‐3 and n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Arendt Bianca M. , Comelli Elena M. , Ma David W.L. , Lou Wendy , Teterina Anastasia , Kim TaeHyung , Fung Scott K. , Wong David K.H. , McGilvray Ian , Fischer Sandra E. , Allard Johane P.
Published: January 2015

In nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatic gene expression and fatty acid (FA) composition have been reported independently, but a comprehensive gene expression profiling in relation to FA composition is lacking. The aim was to assess this relationship. In a cross‐sectional study, hepatic gene expression (Illumina Microarray) was first compared among 20 patients with simple steatosis (SS), 19 with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and 24 healthy controls. The FA composition in hepatic total lipids was compared between SS and NASH, and associations between gene expression and FAs were examined. Gene expression differed mainly between healthy controls and patients (SS and NASH), including genes related to unsaturated FA metabolism. Twenty‐two genes were differentially expressed between NASH and SS; most of them correlated with disease severity and related more to cancer progression than to lipid metabolism. Biologically active long‐chain polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs; eicosapentaenoic acid + docosahexaenoic acid, arachidonic acid) in hepatic total lipids were lower in NASH than in SS. This may be related to overexpression of FADS1, FADS2, and PNPLA3. The degree and direction of correlations between PUFAs and gene expression were different among SS and NASH, which may suggest that low PUFA content in NASH modulates gene expression in a different way compared with SS or, alternatively, that gene expression influences PUFA content differently depending on disease severity (SS versus NASH). Conclusion: Well‐defined subjects with either healthy liver, SS, or NASH showed distinct hepatic gene expression profiles including genes involved in unsaturated FA metabolism. In patients with NASH, hepatic PUFAs were lower and associations with gene expression were different compared to SS. (Hepatology 2015;61:1565–1578)
The effect of strip thinning on spatial and temporal variability of throughfall in a Japanese cypress plantation
Authors: Sun Xinchao , Onda Yuichi , Chiara Stefani , Kato Hiroaki , Gomi Takashi
Published: January 2015

We examined the effect of strip thinning on the spatio‐temporal variability of throughfall (TF) in a mature Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) stand. Strip thinning, which removed 50% of stems, was performed in a catchment in October 2011. TF was examined by setting up 20 tipping‐bucket rain gauges in an experimental plot. Canopy interception parameters were derived from high‐temporal‐resolution TF data. Observations were obtained during the growing season in the pre‐thinning and post‐thinning periods. The results demonstrated that after thinning, the TF rate increased from 64.3 to 76.2%, and the mean coefficient of variation of the TF rate significantly decreased from 27.3 ± 9.7 to 22.5 ± 6.8%. The spatial TF patterns were largely related to the rainfall class. There was no significant difference in the TF rate for the rainfall amount >25 mm between the periods. The temporal persistence of the normalized TF was slightly stable in the post‐thinning period and was not significantly related to canopy cover or the distance to the nearest trunk of each rain gauge in either period. Additionally, thinning resulted in an increase in the proportion of direct TF (from 0.14 ± 0.07 to 0.33 ± 0.11) and a decrease in canopy water storage (from 2.4 ± 0.7 to 1.5 ± 0.5 mm). The quantification of the canopy interception parameters can aid in modelling the changes in interception loss and its processes induced by thinning. These findings also help recognize the changes in spatial TF patterns under different forest management practices. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Delving Beyond Conscious Attitudes: Validation of an Innovative Tool for Assessing Parental Implicit Attitudes Toward Physical Punishment
Authors: Sturge‐Apple Melissa L. , Rogge Ronald D. , Peltz Jack S. , Suor Jennifer H. , Skibo Michael A.
Published: January 2015

Parenting scholars have long been interested in understanding the prevalence, determinants, and child outcomes associated with the use of physical discipline. To date, much of the empirical research in this area has utilized self‐report measures to assess this construct. However, the subjective nature of participants' explicit reports presents an important confound to studying this issue. Thus, the overarching aim of this study was to provide the first test of an implicit assessment of physical discipline through using a Go/No‐go Association Task (GNAT). A GNAT‐Physical Discipline was developed and examined in two separate studies of mothers and their 2–3‐year‐old child. One study was conducted in an online format and the second within a laboratory design. Across both studies, findings suggested that the GNAT‐Physical Discipline distinguished between positive and negative implicit attitudes towards the use of physical discipline. In addition, negative implicit attitudes were uniquely linked to maternal reports of physical discipline when compared to other discipline practices. Results suggest the potential for the GNAT paradigm in research on parental attitudes around the use of physical discipline in parenting contexts. In addition, our use of an online format (with implicit assessments of key constructs) demonstrates that child and family researchers may be able to explore their hypotheses in larger, geographically diverse samples. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling Technical Efficiency in Cross Sectionally Dependent Stochastic Frontier Panels
Authors: Mastromarco Camilla , Serlenga Laura , Shin Yongcheol
Published: January 2015

This paper proposes a unified framework for accommodating both time and cross‐sectional dependence in modelling technical efficiency in stochastic frontier models by combining the exogenously driven factor‐based approach and an endogenous threshold efficiency regime selection mechanism. This approach is able to deal with both weak and strong cross‐sectional dependence in a flexible manner. Using a dataset of 26 OECD countries over 1970–2010, we provide satisfactory estimation results for the production technology parameters and the associated efficiency ranking of individual countries. We find a positive spillover effect on efficiency, supporting the hypothesis that knowledge spillover is more likely to be induced by technological proximity. Furthermore, our approach enables us to identify efficiency clubs endogenously. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative toxicoproteomic analysis of zebrafish embryos exposed to a retinoid X receptor antagonist UVI3003
Authors: Zheng Liang , Yu Jianlan , Shi Huahong , Xia Liang , Xin Qi , Zhang Qiang , Zhao Heng , Luo Ji , Jin Wenhai , Li Daoji , Zhou Junliang
Published: January 2015

Retinoid X receptor (RXR) antagonists, including some environmental endocrine disruptors, have a teratogenic effect on vertebrate embryos. To investigate the toxicological mechanism on the protein expression level, a quantitative proteomic study was conducted to analyze the proteome alterations of zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos exposed to gradient concentrations of a representative RXR antagonist UVI3003. Using isobaric Tags for Relative and Absolute Quantitation (iTRAQ) labeling coupled nano high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (nano HPLC‐MS/MS), in total 6592 proteins were identified, among which 195 proteins were found to be differentially expressed by more than a two‐fold change in exposed groups compared with the control. Gene ontology analysis showed that these differential proteins were mostly involved in anatomical structure development, biosynthetic process, ion binding and oxidoreductase activity. Moreover, the biological pathways of translation, lipoprotein metabolism, cell survival and gluconeogenesis were intensively inhibited after exposure. Some significantly downregulated proteins such as apolipoprotein A‐I and vitellogenin and upregulated proteins such as calcium activated nucleotidase 1b, glutathione S‐transferase and glucose 6‐dehydrogenases showed a strong dose‐dependent response. The results provided new insight into the molecular details of RXR antagonist‐induced teratogenicity and added novel information of pathways and potential biomarkers for evaluation of RXR interfering activity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Disruption of Scube2 Impairs Endochondral Bone Formation
Authors: Lin Yuh-Charn , Roffler Steve R. , Yan Yu-Ting , Yang Ruey-Bing
Published: January 2015

Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 2 (SCUBE2) belongs to a secreted and membrane-tethered multidomain SCUBE protein family composed of three members found in vertebrates and mammals. Recent reports suggested that zebrafish scube2 could facilitate sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling for proper development of slow muscle. However, whether SCUBE2 can regulate the signaling activity of two other hedgehog ligands (Ihh and Dhh), and the developmental relevance of the SCUBE2-induced hedgehog signaling in mammals remain poorly understood. In this study, we first showed that as compared with SCUBE1 or SCUBE3, SCUBE2 is the most potent modulator of IHH signaling in vitro. In addition, gain and loss-of-function studies demonstrated that SCUBE2 exerted an osteogenic function by enhancing Ihh-stimulated osteoblast differentiation in the mouse mesenchymal progenitor cells. Consistent with these in vitro studies and the prominent roles of Ihh in coordinating skeletogenesis, genetic ablation of Scube2 (–/–) caused defective endochondral bone formation and impaired Ihh-mediated chondrocyte differentiation and proliferation as well as osteoblast differentiation of –/– bone-marrow mesenchymal stromal-cell cultures. Our data demonstrate that Scube2 plays a key regulatory role in Ihh-dependent endochondral bone formation. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Adverse Effects of Osteocytic Constitutive Activation of ß-Catenin on Bone Strength and Bone Growth
Authors: Chen Sixu , Feng Jianquan , Bao Quanwei , Li Ang , Zhang Bo , Shen Yue , Zhao Yufeng , Guo Qingshan , Jing Junjun , Lin Shuxian , Zong Zhaowen
Published: January 2015

The activation of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in both mesenchymal stem cells and osteoblasts has been demonstrated to increase bone mass, showing promise for the treatment of low bone volume conditions such as osteoporosis. However, the possible side effects of manipulating this pathway have not been fully addressed. Previously, we reported that the constitutive activation of ß-catenin in osteoblasts impaired vertebral linear growth. In the present study, β-catenin was constitutively activated in osteocytes by crossing Catnb+/lox(exon 3) mice with dentin matrix protein 1(DMP1)-Cre transgenic mice, and the effects of this activation on bone mass, bone growth and bone strength were then observed. DMP1-Cre was found to be predominantly expressed in osteocytes, with weak expression in a small portion of osteoblasts and growth plate chondrocytes. After the activation, the cancellous bone mass was dramatically increased, almost filling the entire bone marrow cavity in long bones. However, bone strength decreased significantly. Thinner and more porous cortical bone along with impaired mineralization were responsible for the decrease in bone strength. Furthermore, the mice showed shorter stature with impaired linear growth of the long bones. Moreover, the concentration of serum phosphate decreased significantly after the activation of ß-catenin, and a high inorganic phosphate (Pi) diet could partially rescue the phenotype of decreased mineralization level and impaired linear growth. Taken together, the constitutive activation of β-catenin in osteocytes may increase cancellous bone mass; however, the activation also had adverse effects on bone strength and bone growth. These adverse effects should be addressed before the adoption of any therapeutic clinical application involving adjustment of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Direct fermentation of potato starch and potato residues to lactic acid by Geobacillus stearothermophilus under non‐sterile conditions
Authors: Smerilli Marina , Neureiter Markus , Wurz Stefan , Haas Cornelia , Frühauf Sabine , Fuchs Werner
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Lactic acid is an important biorefinery platform chemical. The use of thermophilic amylolytic microorganisms to produce lactic acid by fermentation constitutes an efficient strategy to reduce operating costs, including raw materials and sterilization costs.

RESULTS

A process for the thermophilic production of lactic acid by Geobacillus stearothermophilus directly from potato starch was characterized and optimized. Geobacillus stearothermophilus DSM 494 was selected out of 12 strains screened for amylolytic activity and the ability to form lactic acid as the major product of the anaerobic metabolism. In total more than 30 batches at 3–l scale were run at 60 °C under non‐sterile conditions. The process developed produced 37 g L−1 optically pure (98%) L‐lactic acid in 20 h from 50 g L−1 raw potato starch. As co‐metabolites smaller amounts (<7% w/v) of acetate, formate and ethanol were formed. Yields of lactic acid increased from 66% to 81% when potato residues from food processing were used as a starchy substrate in place of raw potato starch.

CONCLUSIONS

Potato starch and residues were successfully converted to lactic acid by G. stearothermophilus. The process described in this study provides major benefits in industrial applications and for the valorization of starch‐rich waste streams. © 2015 The Authors.Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Phosphate removal from aqueous solution using a hybrid impregnated polymeric sorbent containing hydrated ferric oxide (HFO)
Authors: You Xialei , Guaya Diana , Farran Adriana , Valderrama César , Cortina José Luis
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated a polymeric ion exchanger impregnated with nanoparticles of hydrated ferric oxide as a selective sorbent for anionic P(V) species. The hybrid impregnated anion exchanger (HAIX) employed as sorbent combines the durability and mechanical strength of a polymeric weak base anion exchange resin with the high sorption affinity of hydrated ferric oxide towards P(V) species.

RESULTS

The P(V) loading capacity of the sorbent at a pH simulating the expected conditions in treated wastewaters was 92 ± 3 mg P‐PO4 g−1 in single component solutions. The sorption of P(V) is affected slightly by the common ions typically present in these effluents such as Cl−, SO42− and NO3−, and a reduction of only 5% was observed (89 ± 2 mg P‐PO4 g−1) in multicomponent solutions. The sorbent can be regenerated (95 ± 3%) using 4% (w/w) sodium hydroxide solution.

CONCLUSIONS

HAIX displays high selectivity for phosphate and small affinity for SO42−, NO3− and Cl− ions, which provides excellent conditions for its application at pH values typical of secondary wastewater effluents. HAIX exhibits higher and competitive phosphate removal capacity compared with data reported in the literature for materials based on HFO and for adsorbents prepared by impregnation of HFO onto polymeric supports. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of polymeric materials on the performance of a mesophilic biotrickling filter treating an α‐pinene contaminated gas stream
Authors: Montes María , Veiga María C , Kennes Christian
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have characterized the most effective absorbent polymers for the removal of volatile hydrophobic pollutants from air. This study evaluates the performance of a laboratory scale α‐pinene‐degrading biotrickling filter (BTF) packed with lava rock. A second solid phase, Hytrel® G3548L (5%, v/v), was added in order to check its effect on the performance of the system during long‐term operation.

RESULTS

The biodegradation profile was similar in both bioreactor configurations, with or without solid polymers, reaching a maximum elimination capacity (ECmax) around 25.6 g m−3 h−1 when an inlet loading rate of 57.2 g m−3 h−1 was applied. Tracer studies were carried out in order to determine the effect of the liquid and gas velocities, and to analyze the gas distribution with the different packing materials.

CONCLUSIONS

Deviation from ideal flow caused by channelling of the fluid was observed from tracer studies. No better performance was observed under steady‐state conditions in the presence of polymeric Hytrel material. Further considerations are needed for the selection of an appropriate absorbent polymer for α‐pinene removal. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Adsorption kinetics of DowexTM OptiporeTM L493 for the removal of the furan 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural from sugar
Authors: IJzer Anne Corine , Vriezekolk Erik , Ðekic Zivkovic Tanja , Nijmeijer Kitty
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Recently much research has been focused on the production and refinery of biobased fuels. The production of biofuels derived from lignocellulosic biomass is recognized as a promising route to produce biobased fuels responsibly. Often, product streams (e.g. glucose) still contain small amounts of undesired components (e.g. furans such as HMF). This study focuses on the removal of furans produced during the fermentation. In earlier work, styrene based resins have been identified as promising materials for this separation. In this work the kinetic properties of the most promising resin: DowexTM OptiporeTM L493 are studied.

RESULTS

The diffusion coefficient of 5 mg L−1 HMF was ∼8 × 10−12 m2 s−1 in water and 3.0 × 10−12 m2 s−1 in a glucose solution. The reduced diffusion coefficient in the particle when glucose is present is caused by the higher viscosity of the glucose solution and it indicates that diffusion is controlled by surface and pore diffusion. The breakthrough curves of HMF on Optipore showed that the column is very efficient under conditions of interest.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that Optipore is a much more efficient resin for HMF removal than currently used resins. Its fast kinetics and capacity make it possible to efficiently remove HMF from glucose solutions. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Kinetics and mechanisms of adsorption/desorption of the ionic liquid 1‐buthyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide into mordenite
Authors: Chanie Yewilsaw , Díaz Isabel , Pérez Eduardo
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Kinetics of adsorption and desorption associated with diffusion mechanisms is of crucial importance to use zeolites as catalysts. In particular, diffusion of ionic liquids (IL) is of interest when using them as solvent for reactions or preparing composite IL–Zeolite. This work investigated the kinetics of adsorption/desorption of 1‐buthyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide ([BMIM]+Br−) into mordenite (MOR), a channel‐like zeolite.

RESULTS

The adsorbed IL is characterized and quantified using infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetrical analysis (TGA) and CHN elemental analysis. The results show rapid adsorption of c. 0.7 mol of [BMIM]+Br− per gram of MOR but most of it remains in the pores of the zeolite upon desorption because only 9% is desorbed. CHN and TGA also suggest that adsorption of [BMIM]+Br− into the ammonium form of MOR can follow an ionic exchange mechanism. Experimental results can be fitted to a pseudo‐second‐order kinetic equation.

CONCLUSION

The kinetics and mechanisms of adsorption and desorption of [BMIM]+Br− into MOR have been studied. Adsorption kinetics is relatively quick; but only partial desorption occurs probably due to the strength of the [BMIM]+Br−–MOR interaction. The observed differences between the adsorption of [BMIM]+Br− into the different forms of MOR give important information on the interaction mechanisms. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Coupled ARTP and ALE strategy to improve anaerobic cell growth and succinic acid production by Escherichia coli
Authors: Ma Jiang‐feng , Wu Ming‐ke , Zhang Chang‐qing , He Ai‐yong , Kong Xiang‐ping , Li Gan‐lu , Wei Ce , Jiang Min
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Escherichia coli AFP111, a facultative anaerobic strain, shows a very low cell growth and succinic acid production rate in minimal medium during exclusively anaerobic fermentation. Therefore, atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) and adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) strategies were adopted to improve cell growth and succinic acid production under anaerobic conditions.

RESULTS

A mutant, BER208, was obtained by ARTP and ALE used successively. When cultured in a 3 L stirred bioreactor, the specific growth rate of BER208 was increased 3.12‐fold compared with AFP111. Also, it consumed 40 g L−1 glucose and produced 27.9 g L−1 succinic acid with a glucose utilization rate of 0.54 g L−1 h−1 and succinic acid productivity of 0.38 g L−1 h−1, which were 3.7‐fold and 2.5‐fold higher than those of the original strain. Further investigation showed that the activities of glucokinase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK) were increased 3.3‐fold and 16‐fold in the mutant compared with the original strain.

CONCLUSION

The combined strategy of ARTP and ALE was an effective approach to obtain mutants with improved performance. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Insight on the fundamentals of advanced oxidation processes. Role and review of the determination methods of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Fernández‐Castro Pablo , Vallejo Marta , San Román Mª Fresnedo , Ortiz Inmaculada
Published: January 2015

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have known increased application to treat wastewaters containing recalcitrant compounds that are hardly degraded by conventional technologies. AOPs are characterized by the formation of strong oxidants such as hydroxyl radicals, superoxide anions, hydroperoxyl radicals and singlet oxygen, which react with the contaminant, contributing to its degradation. This paper provides an overview of the determination methods of reactive oxygen species, ROS, in the application of AOPs; the methods developed in the available literature for the detection and quantification of ROS are reviewed as a first step in the assessment and detailed description of the mechanisms involved in the oxidation reactions, focusing on the critical analysis of the main strengths and weaknesses presented by the probe molecules employed in the evaluated studies. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry