bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetotelluric investigation in the High Agri Valley (southern Apennine, Italy)
Authors: Balasco M. , Giocoli A. , Piscitelli S. , Romano G. , Siniscalchi A. , Stabile T. A. , Tripladi S.
Published: November 2014

Abstract. In this paper we present the result of a Magnetotelluric (MT) investigation carried out across the High Agri Valley (HAV), southern Italy. Several MT soundings were carried out in order to obtain a ~15 km long 2-D resistivity model with an investigation depth of ~10 km. The main aim was to provide valuable data on the geological and structural setting of the HAV. The MT model was compared with pre-existing geological, geophysical and seismic data. The MT model can be schematized as a superposition of three stack lateral varying layers with different thickness and resistivity values: a surficial low-medium resistivity layer, associated to the Quaternary deposits and to the allochthonous units, and a deeper high resistivity layer, related to the Apulia Platform, separated by a thin layer connected to the mélange zone and to the Pliocene terrigenous marine deposits. Sharp lateral resistivity variations are interpreted as faults that, on the basis of accurate focal mechanism computations, display normal-faulting kinematics.
Influencing public opinion from corn syrup to obesity: A longitudinal analysis of the references for nutritional entries on Wikipedia
Authors: Messner Marcus , DiStaso Marcia W. , Jin Yan , Meganck Shana , Sherman Scott , Norton Sally
Published: November 2014

The collaboratively edited online encyclopedia Wikipedia has continuously increased its reliability through a revised editing and referencing process. As the public increasingly turns to online resources for health information, this study analyzed the development of the referencing as the basis for Wikipedia content on nutritional health topics over five years. The study found that Wikipedia articles on nine selected nutrition topics do not only consistently rank among the top search results in major search engines, but have also been heavily edited and revised over time. A longitudinal content analysis of more than 3,000 references showed that the articles are greatly relying on academic publications as the sources for their information on nutrition, stressing the improved reliability of Wikipedia content.
Socioeconomic Status and Adolescent Aggression: The Role of Executive Functioning as a Mediator
Authors: Fatima Shameem , Sheikh Hamid
Published: November 2014

The primary focus of the present study was to determine the direct and indirect relations between socioeconomic status (SES), executive functioning (EF), and adolescent aggression. The test sample included 512 adolescents (girls = 255, boys = 257) of secondary and higher secondary grade within the age range of 13–19 years. Participants completed measures of SES and aggression in group settings, followed by the individual administration of tests of EF. Findings provided support for the meditational effect of executive skills in the relation between SES and aggression. Specifically, results showed that SES is positively and directly related to EF and indirectly related to aggression through EF. Implications of the study along with limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Comparison of Interstimulus Intervals on Change Detection in Nondriving and Driving Scenarios
Authors: Vanwormer Lisa A. , Senkbeil Sara K. , Kass Steven J.
Published: November 2014

Change detection across disruptions of visual scenes is typically studied using brief durations of the interstimulus interval (ISI) (i.e., up to 300 ms). We investigated change detection across durations that approximate longer, voluntary glances away from a visual scene (i.e., 500–2,000 ms), which are often actualized in driving situations. Experiment 1 found that in nondriving scenarios, change detection performance, as measured by accuracy and response time, decreased as ISI increased. Experiment 2 found that in driving scenarios, change detection for plausible changes also decreased as the ISI increased, but there was no similar decrease in performance for implausible changes. Both Experiments 1 and 2 showed that the necessary number of exposures to the change decreased as ISIs approximated voluntary glances, suggesting that change detection strategies may be modified at longer ISI durations.
Deficit Irrigation of Durum Wheat (Triticum durum Desf): Effects on Total Dry Matter Production, Light Interception and Radiation Use Efficiency Under Different Nitrogen Rates
Authors: Cheikh M'hamed Hatem , Rezig Mourad , Naceur Mbarek Ben
Published: November 2014

On-farm trial was conducted from 2005 to 2008 to test the hypothesis that reduction of total dry matter (TDM) in crops can occur after a decreased radiation use efficiency (RUE) due to shortage of nitrogen and irrigation, we applied three irrigations treatments (D1, D2 and D3) and four nitrogen rates (N1, N2, N3 and N4). Photosynthetic active radiation absorbed or cumulative light interception (PARabs) and RUE of Durum wheat were measured. Results showed that D1N1 treatment recorded the highest LAI, PARabs, TDM and RUE. The maximum LAI was obtained 140 DAS (days after sowing) under treatment D1N2 (6.42) and the lowest LAI at the same phase belonged to treatment D2N4 (3.86). At the harvest, the maximum of TDM was 1487 g m-2 recorded under treatment D1N1. The minimum value obtained was 930 g m-2 under treatment D3N4. Also, PARabs was improved under D1N1 and D1N2 treatments. With reduced N application rates and irrigation doses, PARabs was decreased and the lowest values were observed under D3N4 condition. The RUE, varied from 1.55 g MJ-1 (D1N1) to 1.24 g MJ-1 (D3N4), was affected and decreased under deficit irrigation and low nitrogen conditions. In conclusion, the results of this study seem to show that D1N1 and D1N2 treatments can be beneficial for Durum wheat under field conditions in semi arid zone of Tunisia, for the purpose of improving RUE and maximizing grain yield.
Het initiatiefwetsvoorstel mediation in Nederland en belastinggeschillen
Authors: Kuiper Jurgen
Published: November 2014

The draft law proposal concerning mediation in the Netherlands and tax disputes

In his article, Jurgen Kuiper describes what rules will be included in the law governing mediation in disputes between the tax authorities and a taxpayer (and his or her tax adviser/lawyer) in the Netherlands, based on the draft law proposal initiated by Ard van der Steur, a member of the Dutch Parliament. Jurgen Kuiper describes when and how mediation is achieved, what else is regulated in relation to mediation, and who the mediator will be. He also describes what is new in the draft law proposal in comparison with the content of the mediation agreement which currently in practice is concluded between the tax authorities, the taxpayer (and his or her (tax) adviser/lawyer) and the mediator at the beginning of the mediation. Although the draft law proposal contains some new items, he expects that, in practice, the draft law will hardly make any difference when it comes to mediation in tax disputes. He also expects that regulation of mediation in tax disputes in the law might contribute to mediation in tax matters being taken more seriously.
An Analysis of Terminology of Concepts of Competitiveness in the Presentations of Strategic Development of Selected Car Manufacturers
Authors: Zich Robert
Published: November 2014

The primary objective of presented research represents a specific partial part of complex research of competitiveness aiming at terminology applied to presentation of strategic plans of companies. The purpose of evaluation was both evaluation of applicability of terminology, defined in the theoretical level in the context of company practice, and in - wider context - search for links among used approach of presentation, terminology and factual behavior of companies. The results shows that terminologies defined on the basis of the analysis of three concepts of development of competitiveness share common features. The approach of presentation is still being developed, as indicated in evaluated firms. The manner, used by analyzed car producers is rather significant element of its competitive behavior and, in certain range, such manner must reflect the approach to strategic development of competitiveness.
The Generative Influence of Emotions and Feelings
Authors: Gatarik Eva
Published: November 2014

“According to recent research by the neurobiologist Damasio and the psychologist Gigerenzer it is the aim of this paper to point out the limits of plainly cognitive approaches to decision-making and problem-solving in context of business and economy and – by showing the significance of emotions and (gut) feelings in decision and problem-solving processes – to contribute theoretically to an essential improvement of knowledge management practice, which can lead to a decisive competitive advantage of an organization or an enterprise.”
K psychologii láskyplného vztahu: pedagogické inspirace se zaměřením na předškolní výchovu
Authors: Helus Zdeněk
Published: November 2014

Studie klade důraz na osobnostní přístup k vývoji dítěte v doškolní fázi jeho života, tvořící celek vývojových souvislostí, vrcholících vstupem dítěte do mateřské školy. Osobnostní přístup zahrnuje za prvé zřetel k podstatným znakům doškolního dítěte (k jeho odkázanosti, otevřenému prožívání, potencialitám a vývojovému směřování) a za druhé zřetel k zlomovým událostem v jeho dosavadním vývoji (primárnímu vztahu a připoutání, separačně individualizační tendenci, nástupu asertivního já, včlenění do mateřské školy). Láskyplný vztah je podmínkou, aby vývoj probíhal plnohodnotně, tedy nebyl brzděn, deformován apod. Láskyplný vztah učitelky mateřské školy má specifické znaky a uplatňuje se v její vcítivě tvořivé reflexi nad dítětem jakožto utvářející se osobností.
The transcription factor FOXL2 mobilizes estrogen signaling to maintain the identity of ovarian granulosa cells
Authors: Georges Adrien , L'Hôte David , Todeschini Anne Laure , Auguste Aurélie , Legois Bérangère , Zider Alain , Veitia Reiner A
Published: November 2014

FOXL2 is a lineage determining transcription factor in the ovary, but its direct targets and modes of action are not fully characterized. In this study, we explore the targets of FOXL2 and five nuclear receptors in murine primary follicular cells. We found that FOXL2 is required for normal gene regulation by steroid receptors, and we show that estrogen receptor beta (ESR2) is the main vector of estradiol signaling in these cells. Moreover, we found that FOXL2 directly modulates Esr2 expression through a newly identified intronic element. Interestingly, we found that FOXL2 repressed the testis-determining gene Sox9 both independently of estrogen signaling and through the activation of ESR2 expression. Altogether, we show that FOXL2 mobilizes estrogen signaling to establish a coherent feed-forward loop repressing Sox9. This sheds a new light on the role of FOXL2 in ovarian maintenance and function.
Forward genetics for back-in-time questions
Authors: de Mendoza Alex , Ruiz-Trillo Iñaki
Published: November 2014

A genetic screen has revealed one of the molecules that allow choanoflagellates, the closest unicellular relative of animals, to form colonies, which could help researchers to answer questions about the earliest days of animal evolution.
Developing Resources for Teaching Ethics in Geoscience
Authors: Mogk David W. , Geissman John W.
Published: November 2014

Ethics education is an increasingly important component of the pre‐professional training of geoscientists. Geoethics encompasses the values and professional standards required of geoscientists to work responsibly in any geoscience profession and in service to society. Funding agencies (e.g., the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health) require training of graduate students in the responsible conduct of research; employers are increasingly expecting their workers to have basic training in ethics; and the public demands the highest standards of ethical conduct by scientists. However, there is currently no formal course of instruction in ethics in the geoscience curriculum, and few faculty members have the experience, resources, and sometimes willingness required to teach ethics as a component of their geoscience courses.
Peruvian Andes helped to cool eastern equatorial Pacific
Authors: Wendel JoAnna
Published: November 2014

During the latter half of the Cenozoic, starting during the Pliocene, the eastern equatorial Pacific (EEP) underwent a change from warm, wet climate conditions—which scientists refer to as “permanent El Niño”—to more moderate conditions like those observed today. Although scientists can track this change using marine proxy records, they are still puzzled as to why the sudden shift occurred.
What happens to minerals as they get squeezed in the mantle?
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: November 2014

The motion of the Earth's mantle is controlled in part by how mantle minerals respond to changes in temperature and pressure. The chemical and physical shifts that minerals undergo as they are heated and squeezed cause some to sink down toward the core and others to rise up toward the surface. This buoyant pressure and gravitational sinking, in turn, affect the convection of the mantle and the large‐scale cycling of the Earth.
Dissociation of Cascadia margin gas hydrates in response to contemporary ocean warming
Authors: Hautala Susan L. , Solomon Evan A. , Johnson H. Paul , Harris Robert N. , Miller Una K.
Published: November 2014

Gas hydrates, pervasive in continental margin sediments, are expected to release methane in response to ocean warming, but the geographic range of dissociation and subsequent flux of methane to the ocean are not well constrained. Sediment column thermal models based on observed water column warming trends offshore Washington (USA) show that a substantial volume of gas hydrate along the entire Cascadia upper continental slope is vulnerable to modern climate change. Dissociation along the Washington sector of the Cascadia margin alone has the potential to release 45–80 Tg of methane by 2100. These results highlight the importance of lower latitude warming to global gas hydrate dynamics and suggest that contemporary warming and downslope retreat of the gas hydrate reservoir occur along a larger fraction of continental margins worldwide than previously recognized.
Regional variations in the influence of mesoscale eddies on near‐surface chlorophyll
Authors: Gaube Peter , McGillicuddy Dennis J. , Chelton Dudley B. , Behrenfeld Michael J. , Strutton Peter G.
Published: November 2014

Eddies can influence biogeochemical cycles through a variety of mechanisms, including the excitation of vertical velocities and the horizontal advection of nutrients and ecosystems, both around the eddy periphery by rotational currents and by the trapping of fluid and subsequent transport by the eddy. In this study, we present an analysis of the influence of mesoscale ocean eddies on near‐surface chlorophyll (CHL) estimated from satellite measurements of ocean color. The influences of horizontal advection, trapping, and upwelling/downwelling on CHL are analyzed in an eddy‐centric frame of reference by collocating satellite observations to eddy interiors, as defined by their sea surface height signatures. The influence of mesoscale eddies on CHL varies regionally. In most boundary current regions, cyclonic eddies exhibit positive CHL anomalies and anticyclonic eddies contain negative CHL anomalies. In the interior of the South Indian Ocean, however, the opposite occurs. The various mechanisms by which eddies can influence phytoplankton communities are summarized and regions where the observed CHL response to eddies is consistent with one or more of the mechanisms are discussed. This study does not attempt to link the observed regional variability definitively to any particular mechanism but provides a global overview of how eddies influence CHL anomalies.
A 100 Myr history of the carbon cycle based on the 400 kyr cycle in marine δ13C benthic records
Authors: Paillard Didier , Donnadieu Yannick
Published: November 2014

Documenting the past coevolution of Earth temperatures and of the carbon cycle is of paramount importance for our understanding of climate dynamics. Atmospheric CO2is well constrained over the last million years through direct measurements in air bubbles from Antarctic ice cores. For older times, many different and sometimes conflicting proxies have been suggested. Here we provide a new methodology to constrain the carbon cycle in the past, based on marine benthic δ13C records. Marine δ13C data are recording a persistent 400 kyr cycle, with an amplitude primarily linked to the total amount of carbon in the ocean, or dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). By extracting this amplitude from published records, we obtain a new strong constraint on the 100 Myr history of Earth's carbon cycle. The obtained Cenozoic evolution of DIC is in surprisingly in a good agreement with existing reconstructions ofpCO2, suggesting thatpCO2is mostly driven by DIC changes over this period. In contrast, we find no strong decreasing trend in DIC between the Cretaceous and the Cenozoic, suggesting that Cretaceous atmosphericpCO2levels were limited, and high temperatures at this time should be explained by other mechanisms. Alternatively, high Cretaceous atmosphericpCO2could occur as a consequence of changes in oceanic chemistry but not carbon content.
e
‐Health Services
Authors: Suzanne Suggs L. , Rangelov Natalie , Schmeil Andreas , Occa Aurora , Bardus Marco , Radchuk Olga , Dianat Sepideh
Published: November 2014

Technological advances have changed the way in which health services are designed and implemented; e‐health services aim to achieve better health, better decision‐making, better communication, better prices, and better access to health information and health care. Given the growing reliance on electronic means to educate and serve health consumers, this entry focuses on several types of e‐health service, where communication plays a fundamental role in the service: health education, behavior change, self‐management and monitoring, adherence, and surveillance. The proliferation of new technologies creates an exciting opportunity for health communication scholars, practitioners, and policymakers, in terms of reach, cost savings, and health outcomes.
Open Content
Authors: Haßler Björn , Mays Tony
Published: November 2014

Open content is typically digital content that allows broader use than traditionally printed or copyrighted content. Open content isfreed upcontent, for instance through permissive licensing, such as Creative Commons. Open content includes open educational resources (OER),OpenCourseWare(OCW), open video, open access publications, as well as open data. It shares some similarity with open source software. Open content can have different freedoms, such as legal freedom, technological freedom (including usability and accessibility), as well as freedom in terms of education and participation, related to inclusion and interactive pedagogy. More broadly open content is related to open education and open educational practices. Although open content can be traced back further, the movement developed particularly rapidly in the 2000s, with major education and research stakeholders publishing open content and adopting policies promoting open content and open research practices.

This entry reviews the origins of open content, and discusses different aspects of “open.” Two specific areas are highlighted: first, open content in higher education, including open textbooks, massively open online courses, open video, and research on open content, pointing to cost savings; second, open educational resources in Africa through recent developments and success stories, particularly in the context ofOERAfrica.
Availability, Need for, and Use of Work Accommodations and Benefits: Are They Related to Employment Outcomes in People With Arthritis?
Authors: Gignac Monique A. M. , Cao Xingshan , McAlpine Jessica
Published: November 2014

Objective

To examine the availability, need, and use of workplace policies for workers with osteoarthritis (OA) and inflammatory arthritis (IA) and their association with employment outcomes.

Methods

Participants (n = 219) were employed, ages ≥25 years, and diagnosed with OA or IA. They were recruited through community advertising and rheumatology clinics in 2 Canadian provinces. Respondents completed a 35–45‐minute telephone interview assessing demographics (age, sex), health (diagnosis, pain, activity limitations), work context (job control), employment outcomes (workplace activity limitations, absenteeism, productivity losses, reduced hours), benefits (extended health, short‐term leaves), and accommodations (flexible hours, modified schedules, special equipment/adaptations, work‐at‐home arrangements). Regression analyses examined differences in benefit/accommodation need and use.

Results

Many participants reported that arthritis impacted their work. But with the exception of extended health benefits, ∼50–65% of participants reported not needing each individual benefit/accommodation, although only 7.3% of respondents reported needing no benefits or accommodations at all. Greater job control and education were associated with greater perceived need and use of benefits/accommodations. Need was also associated with greater activity limitations, and disclosure of arthritis was related to use of benefits/accommodations. Participants needing but not using workplace policies often had significantly poorer employment outcomes compared to those using benefits/accommodations.

Conclusion

Findings are relevant to workers with arthritis and to employers. Results suggest that individuals with arthritis are unlikely to be a drain on workplace resources. Many individuals do not use benefits/accommodations until needed, and among those using them, there were generally positive relationships with diverse employment outcomes.
Impact of Biologic Agents With and Without Concomitant Methotrexate and at Reduced Doses in Older Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Zhang Jie , Xie Fenglong , Delzell Elizabeth , Yun Huifeng , Lewis James D. , Haynes Kevin , Chen Lang , Beukelman Timothy , Saag Kenneth G. , Curtis Jeffrey R.
Published: November 2014

Objective

To examine whether concomitant methotrexate (MTX) use is associated with better biologic persistence and whether self‐administered anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) therapies are used at reduced doses in real‐world clinical care settings, not just clinical trials.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study among rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients using Medicare claims data from 2006 to 2012. Subjects were new initiators of etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab, abatacept, and tocilizumab with at least 12 months of continuous medical and pharmacy coverage after treatment initiation. We examined the association between concomitant MTX use and persistence on biologic agents using Cox proportional hazards regression, adjusting for demographics and baseline comorbidities. We further identified a subgroup of patients who initiated and were adherent on etanercept or adalimumab for at least 12 months and examined the proportion of patients who subsequently used these therapies at reduced doses continuously for an additional 12, 18, and 24 months.

Results

Of 26,510 eligible RA patients, 10,511 initiated biologic monotherapy. Overall, patients who initiated biologic monotherapy were 1.4 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.3–1.5) times more likely to discontinue at 1 year compared to those who initiated combination therapy, and 1.8 (95% CI 1.7–2.0) times more likely if starting infliximab monotherapy. Approximately 10–20% of patients who initiated and adhered to etanercept and adalimumab for ≥12 months subsequently received reduced‐dose therapy for an 12 additional months and beyond.

Conclusion

In real‐world practice, concomitant MTX was associated with improved persistence on biologic therapy, especially for infliximab users; reduced‐dose injectable anti‐TNF therapy was used by a substantial proportion of RA patients.
Behavioral phenotype in Costello syndrome with atypical mutation: A case report
Authors: Alfieri Paolo , Caciolo Cristina , Piccini Giorgia , D'Elia Lidia , Valeri Giovanni , Menghini Deny , Tartaglia Marco , Digilio Maria Cristina , Dallapiccola Bruno , Vicari Stefano
Published: November 2014

Costello syndrome (CS) is a rare genetic disorder caused, in the majority of cases, by germline missense HRAS mutations affecting Gly12 promoting enhanced signaling through the MAPK and PI3K‐AKT signaling cascades. In general, the cognitive profile in CS is characterized by intellectual disability ranging from mild to severe impairment. The first published descriptions of behavior in CS children underlined the presence of irritability and shyness at younger ages with sociable personality and good empathic skills after 4–5 years of age, however some recent studies have reported autistic traits. We report on a 7‐year‐old boy heterozygous for a rare duplication of codon 37 (p.E37dup) in HRAS, manifesting impaired social interaction and non‐verbal communication and with circumscribed interests. These additional features improve phenotype delineation in individuals with rare HRAS mutations, facilitating the development of specific behavioral treatments which could lead to improvement in cases of autism spectrum disorder. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cellular plasticity induced by anti–α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor encephalitis antibodies
Authors: Peng Xiaoyu , Hughes Ethan G. , Moscato Emilia H. , Parsons Thomas D. , Dalmau Josep , Balice‐Gordon Rita J.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Autoimmune‐mediated anti–α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) encephalitis is a severe but treatment‐responsive disorder with prominent short‐term memory loss and seizures. The mechanisms by which patient antibodies affect synapses and neurons leading to symptoms are poorly understood.

Methods

The effects of patient antibodies on cultures of live rat hippocampal neurons were determined with immunostaining, Western blot, and electrophysiological analyses.

Results

We show that patient antibodies cause a selective decrease in the total surface amount and synaptic localization of GluA1‐ and GluA2‐containing AMPARs, regardless of receptor subunit binding specificity, through increased internalization and degradation of surface AMPAR clusters. In contrast, patient antibodies do not alter the density of excitatory synapses, N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) clusters, or cell viability. Commercially available AMPAR antibodies directed against extracellular epitopes do not result in a loss of surface and synaptic receptor clusters, suggesting specific effects of patient antibodies. Whole‐cell patch clamp recordings of spontaneous miniature postsynaptic currents show that patient antibodies decrease AMPAR‐mediated currents, but not NMDAR‐mediated currents. Interestingly, several functional properties of neurons are also altered: inhibitory synaptic currents and vesicular γ‐aminobutyric acid transporter (vGAT) staining intensity decrease, whereas the intrinsic excitability of neurons and short‐interval firing increase.

Interpretation

These results establish that antibodies from patients with anti‐AMPAR encephalitis selectively eliminate surface and synaptic AMPARs, resulting in a homeostatic decrease in inhibitory synaptic transmission and increased intrinsic excitability, which may contribute to the memory deficits and epilepsy that are prominent in patients with this disorder. Ann Neurol 2015;77:381–398
Carbon Monoxide Bonding With BeO and BeCO3: Surprisingly High CO Stretching Frequency of OCBeCO3
Authors: Chen Mohua , Zhang Qingnan , Zhou Mingfei , Andrada Diego M. , Frenking Gernot
Published: November 2014

The complexes OCBeCO3 and COBeCO3 have been isolated in a low‐temperature neon matrix. The more stable isomer OCBeCO3 has a very high CO stretching mode of 2263 cm−1, which is blue‐shifted by 122 cm−1 with respect to free CO and 79 cm−1 higher than in OCBeO. Bonding analysis of the complexes shows that OCBeO has a stronger OCBeY bond than OCBeCO3 because it encounters stronger π backdonation. The isomers COBeCO3 and COBeO exhibit red‐shifted CO stretching modes with respect to free CO. The inverse change of CO stretching frequency in OCBeY and COBeY is explained with the reversed polarization of the σ and π bonds in CO.
Diketopyrrolopyrrole‐Porphyrin Conjugates with High Two‐Photon Absorption and Singlet Oxygen Generation for Two‐Photon Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Schmitt Julie , Heitz Valérie , Sour Angélique , Bolze Frédéric , Ftouni Hussein , Nicoud Jean‐Francois , Flamigni Lucia , Ventura Barbara
Published: November 2014

Two‐photon photodynamic therapy is a promising therapeutic method which requires the development of sensitizers with efficient two‐photon absorption and singlet‐oxygen generation. Reported here are two new diketopyrrolopyrrole‐porphyrin conjugates as robust two‐photon absorbing dyes with high two‐photon absorption cross‐sections within the therapeutic window. Furthermore, for the first time the singlet‐oxygen generation efficiency of diketopyrrolopyrrole‐containing systems is investigated. A preliminary study on cell culture showed efficient two‐photon induced phototoxicity.
Bifunctional Submicron Colloidosomes Coassembled from Fluorescent and Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Bollhorst Tobias , Shahabi Shakiba , Wörz Katharina , Petters Charlotte , Dringen Ralf , Maas Michael , Rezwan Kurosch
Published: November 2014

Colloidosomes are microcapsules consisting of nanoparticle shells. These microcarriers can be self‐assembled from a wide range of colloidal particles with selective chemical, physical, and morphological properties and show promise for application in the field of theranostic nanomedicine. Previous studies have mainly focused on fairly large colloidosomes (>1 μm) based on a single kind of particle; however, the intrinsic building‐block nature of this microcarrier has not been exploited so far for the introduction of tailored functionality at the nanoscale. We report a synthetic route based on interfacial shear rheology studies that allows the simultaneous incorporation of different nanoparticles with distinct physical properties, that is, superparamagnetic iron oxide and fluorescent silica nanoparticles, in a single submicron colloidosome. These tailor‐made microcapsules can potentially be used in various biomedical applications, including magnetic hyperthermia, magnetic particle imaging, drug targeting, and bioimaging.
Observations on Fur Development in Echidna (Monotremata, Mammalia) Indicate that Spines Precede Hairs in Ontogeny
Authors: Alibardi Lorenzo , Rogers George
Published: November 2014

In the primitive mammal echidna, the initial 2–3 generations of skin appendages produced from birth forms spines and only later true hairs appear. Microscopy on preserved museum specimens reveals that the morphogenesis of spines and hairs is similar but that a larger dermal papilla is formed in spines. The growing shaft comprises a medulla surrounded by a cortex and by an external cuticle. A thick inner root sheath made of cornified cells surrounds the growing shaft inside the spine canal that eventually exits with a pointed tip. Hairs develop later with the same modality of spines but have a smaller papilla and give rise to a fur coat among spines. Therefore the integument of developing echidnas initially produces spines from large dermal papillae but the reduction in size of the papillae later determines the formation of hairs. Although the morphogenesis of spines and hairs can represent a case of specialization in this species, the primitive mammalian characteristics of echidnas has also inspired new speculations on the evolution of the mammalian hair from mammalian‐like reptiles with a spiny coat. The resemblance in the morphogenesis between spines and hairs has suggested some hypothesis on hair evolution, in particular that hairs might be derived from the reduction of protective large spines present in ancient mammalian‐like reptiles possibly derived from the reduction of pre‐existing pointed scales. The hypothesis suggests that spines became reduced and internalized in the skin forming hairs. Anat Rec, 298:761–770, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brief Report: Distinct Dysregulation of the Small Leucine‐Rich Repeat Protein Family in Osteoarthritic Acetabular Labrum Compared to Articular Cartilage
Authors: Juchtmans Nele , Dhollander Aad A. M. , Coudenys Julie , Audenaert Emmanuel A. , Pattyn Christophe , Lambrecht Stijn , Elewaut Dirk
Published: November 2014

Objective

Articular cartilage is well studied in osteoarthritis (OA). However, the role of supporting structures, such as the acetabular labrum, a sealing structure surrounding the hip joint, has been investigated much less. We recently showed that fibrochondrocytic labrum cells are metabolically active. This study was undertaken to investigate hip OA–associated changes in human acetabular labrum cells.

Methods

Microarray analysis was performed to compare OA labrum cells to healthy labrum cells cultured in a 3‐dimensional alginate bead system. Data were analyzed by cluster analysis using gene set enrichment analysis software and by gene list analysis using PANTHER gene family tools. Selected candidates were validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis on labrum and cartilage samples and by immunohistochemistry. The functional impacts of the genes identified were investigated by in vitro stimulation experiments in labrum cells.

Results

Pathway analysis revealed increased cytokine and chemokine signaling in OA labrum cells, whereas reduced extracellular matrix interactions and transforming growth factor β signaling were observed. Several genes were significantly differentially expressed in OA compared to healthy labrum. We specifically focused on 3 small leucine‐rich repeat proteins (SLRPs), osteomodulin, osteoglycin, and asporin, that appeared to be distinctly regulated in OA labrum compared to OA cartilage. SLRPs were strongly down‐regulated in OA labrum but up‐regulated in OA articular chondrocytes. Moreover, in vitro stimulation with osteomodulin increased aggrecan expression in OA labrum cells.

Conclusion

OA labrum fibrochondrocytes have several features similar to OA chondrocytes. However, SLRP expression seems to be differentially influenced by degeneration in OA labrum compared to cartilage, suggesting a specific role for this supporting structure in OA. The functional impact of SLRPs on labrum cells makes them interesting targets for further studies in hip OA.
Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplementation on Knee Osteoarthritis: An Analysis With Marginal Structural Models
Authors: Yang Shibing , Eaton Charles B. , McAlindon Timothy E. , Lapane Kate L.
Published: November 2014

Objective

The purpose of this study was to estimate the effectiveness of the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin in relieving knee symptoms and slowing disease progression among patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

The 4‐year followup data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative data set were analyzed. We used a “new‐user” design, for which only participants who were not using glucosamine/chondroitin at baseline were included in the analyses (n = 1,625). Cumulative exposure was calculated as the number of visits when participants reported use of glucosamine/chondroitin. Knee symptoms were measured with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and structural progression was determined by measuring the joint space width (JSW). To control for the time‐varying confounders that might be influenced by previous treatments, we used marginal structural models to estimate the effects on OA of using glucosamine/chondroitin for 3 years, 2 years, and 1 year.

Results

During the study period, 18% of the participants initiated treatment with glucosamine/chondroitin. After adjustment for potential confounders with marginal structural models, we found no clinically significant differences between users at all assessments and never‐users of glucosamine/chondroitin in WOMAC pain (β = 0.68 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) −0.16 to 1.53]), WOMAC stiffness (β = 0.41 [95% CI 0 to 0.82]), and WOMAC function (β = 1.28 [95% CI −1.23 to 3.79]) or JSW (β = 0.11 [95% CI −0.21 to 0.44]).

Conclusion

Use of glucosamine/chondroitin did not appear to relieve symptoms or modify disease progression among patients with radiographically confirmed OA. Our findings are consistent with the results of meta‐analyses of clinical trials and extend those results to a more general population with knee OA.
Effects of Prescription Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs on Symptoms and Disease Progression Among Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Lapane Kate L. , Yang Shibing , Driban Jeffrey B. , Liu Shao‐Hsien , Dubé Catherine E. , McAlindon Timothy E. , Eaton Charles B.
Published: November 2014

Objective

The effect of short‐term and long‐term use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on structural change is equivocal. The aim of this study was to estimate the extent to which short‐ and long‐term use of prescription NSAIDs relieve symptoms and delay structural progression among patients with radiographically confirmed osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.

Methods

We applied a new‐user design among participants with confirmed OA not reporting NSAID use at the time of enrollment in the Osteoarthritis Initiative. Participants were evaluated for changes in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) subscales (n = 1,846) and joint space width was measured using serial radiographs and a customized software tool (n = 1,116) over 4 years. We used marginal structural modeling to estimate the effect of NSAIDs.

Results

Compared to participants who never reported prescription NSAID use, those reporting use at 1 or 2 assessments had no clinically important changes, but those reporting prescription NSAID use at all 3 assessments had, on average, 0.88 point improvement over the followup period (95% confidence interval [95% CI] −0.46 to 2.22) in pain, 0.72 point improvement (95% CI −0.12 to 1.56) in stiffness, and 4.27 points improvement (95% CI −0.31 to 8.84) in function. The average change in joint space width was 0.28 mm less among those reporting NSAID use at 3 assessments relative to nonusers (95% CI −0.06 to 0.62). Recent NSAID use findings were not clinically or statistically significant.

Conclusion

Long‐term, but not short‐term, NSAID use was associated with an a priori–defined minimally important clinical change in stiffness, physical function, and joint space width, but not pain. While showing modest clinical importance, the estimates did not reach statistical significance.
Lack of Evidence for Genomic Instability in Autistic Children as Measured by the Cytokinesis‐Block Micronucleus Cytome Assay
Authors: Main Penelope A.E. , Thomas Philip , Angley Manya T. , Young Robyn , Esterman Adrian , King Catherine E. , Fenech Michael F.
Published: November 2014

Autism spectrum disorders are a set of neurodevelopmental disorders that are highly hereditable. Increased genomic instability has been observed in other heritable paediatric neurobiological disorders; therefore, the aim of our study was to test the hypothesis that DNA damage is increased in children with autism and that B vitamin status may explain variations in genome integrity between autistic and normal children. We compared 35 children with autism, 27 of their siblings without autism and 25 age‐ and gender‐matched community controls for genomic stability using the cytokinesis‐block micronucleus cytome (CBMN‐cyt) assay, B vitamins and homocysteine, as well as autism‐related behaviours. It was found that there were no differences in CBMN‐cyt biomarkers between the three groups. Vitamin B2 was significantly raised in children with autism and their siblings compared with controls (P = 0.027 and P = 0.016 respectively) but there was no difference in other B vitamins or homocysteine. In conclusion, although replication using a larger cohort is needed, it appears unlikely that genomic instability is a feature of the aetiology of autism. We cannot rule out in utero effects or other types of DNA damage not measured by the CBMN‐cyt assay. Autism Res 2015, 8: 94–104. © 2014 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A MANOVA test for multivariate lognormal observations with a spike at zero, with application to ecological niches of South Africa
Authors: Farcomeni Alessio
Published: November 2014

We develop an asymptotic likelihood ratio test for multivariate lognormal data with a point mass at zero in each dimension. The test generalizes Wilks' lambda and Hotelling T‐test to the case of semicontinuous data. Simulations show that the resulting test statistic attains the nominal Type I error rate and has good power for reasonable alternatives. We conclude with an application to exploration of ecological niches of trees of South Africa.
Retrievable inferior vena cava filters can be placed and removed with a high degree of success: Initial experience
Authors: Cohoon Kevin P. , McBride Joseph , Friese Jeremy L. , McPhail Ian R.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

Evaluate the success rate of retrievable inferior vena cava filter (IVC) removal in a tertiary care practice.

Background

Retrievable IVC filters became readily available in the United States following Food and Drug Administration approval in 2003, and their use has increased dramatically. They represent an attractive option for patients with contraindications to anticoagulation who may only need short‐term protection against pulmonary embolism.

Methods

All patients who had undergone placement of a retrievable IVC filter at Mayo Clinic between 2003 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate our initial experience with retrievable inferior vena cava filters at a large tertiary care center. Results: During a three‐year‐period of time, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN placed 892 IVC filters of which 460 were retrievable. Of the 460 retrievable filters placed (249 Günther Tulip®, 207 Recovery®, and 4 OptEase®), retrieval was attempted in 223 (48.5%). Of 223 initial attempts, 196 (87.9%) were initially successful and 27 (12.1%) were unsuccessful. Of the 27 unsuccessful initial retrieval attempts, 23 (85.2%) were because of the presence of significant thrombus within the filter and 4 (14.8%) were because of tilting and strut perforation. Of the 23 filters containing significant thrombus, 9 (39.1%) were later retrieved after a period of anticoagulation and resolution of the thrombus.

Conclusions

Retrievable IVC filters can be removed with a high degree of success. Approximately one in ten retrievable IVC filter removal attempts may fail initially, usually because of significant thrombus within the filter. This does not preclude possible removal at a later date. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Position of Edwards SAPIEN transcatheter valve in the aortic root in relation with the coronary ostia
Authors: Katsanos Spyridon , Debonnaire Philippe , van der Kley Frank , van Rosendael Philippe , Joyce Emer , de Graaf Michiel A. , Schalij Martin J. , Scholte Arthur J.H.A. , Bax Jeroen J. , Ajmone Marsan Nina , Delgado Victoria
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To determine the implications of stable coverage of the coronary ostia by the Edwards SAPIEN valve frame in terms of myocardial ischemia and subsequent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Background

Edwards SAPIEN frame is frequently deployed relatively higher than recommended and may overlap the coronary ostia.

Methods

A total of 142 patients (age 81 ± 7 years, male 49%) treated with Edwards SAPIEN valve and with multi‐detector row computed tomography at 1 month follow‐up were evaluated. The position of the frame in relation to the coronary ostia was assessed. Levels of troponin T were measured 12–24 hr after TAVI. PCI events at follow‐up were recorded.

Results

The left coronary ostium was fully covered in three (2.1%) patients and the right coronary ostium in 11 (7.7%). There were no differences in troponin T levels between patients with fully covered ostia versus patients with partly or non‐covered ostia (0.24 (0.13–0.50) μg/L versus 0.35 (0.15–0.55) μg/L, respectively; P = 0.377). At 30 ± 15 months follow up, 10 (7%) patients underwent successful PCI. Rate of subsequent PCI was similar between patients with any covered ostium and patients with non‐covered ostia [4 (7.8%) vs. 6 (6.5%), P = 0.780, respectively].

Conclusions

Full overlap of the coronary ostia by Edwards SAPIEN frame is infrequent and in most cases does not limit subsequent PCI. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bioremediation Potential of Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) against Chromium(VI)
Authors: Balaji Sundaramoorthy , Kalaivani Thiagarajan , Rajasekaran Chandrasekaran , Siva Ramamoorthy , Shalini Mohan , Das Ranjan , Madnokar Varun , Dhamorikar Prajakta
Published: November 2014

Phycoremediation is an eco‐friendly, emerging and economically feasible technique for the removal of heavy metals from the environment. In this study, the bioremediation potential of the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis was explored by treating it with various concentrations of chromium(VI) (0.01, 0.05 and 0.1 mM) and as well with tannery effluent containing Cr. Arthrospira platensis was grown in Zarrouk's medium (pH 9.5) at room temperature. The effect of Cr(VI) on A. platensis was studied via biochemical parameters (chlorophyll, protein), physicochemical parameters (total solids, total dissolved solids, total suspended solids) and analytical parameters (Fourier transform IR (FTIR), atomic absorption spectroscopy). The results indicated that A. platensis had a maximum adsorption potential of 98.5% and a reduction potential of 73.5% against Cr(VI). The FTIR analysis revealed that there is an interaction of A. platensis with Cr. These findings suggest that A. platensis can be used for phycoremediation of industrial effluents contaminated with Cr(VI).