bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Raman spectroscopic analysis differentiates between breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Talari A. C. S. , Evans C. A. , Holen I. , Coleman R. E. , Rehman Ihtesham Ur
Published: March 2015

Breast cancer incident rates are increasing in women worldwide with the highest incidence rates reported in developing countries. Major breast cancer screening approaches like mammography, ultrasound, clinical breast examination (CBE) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are currently used but have their own limitations. Optical spectroscopy has attained great attention from biomedical researchers in recent years due to its non‐invasive and non‐destructive detection approach. Chemometrics is one of the powerful tools used in spectroscopic research to enhance its sensitivity. Raman spectroscopy, a vibrational spectroscopic approach, has been used to explore the chemical fingerprints of different biological tissues including normal and malignant types. This approach was used to characterize and differentiate two breast cancer and one normal breast cell lines (MDA‐MB‐436, MCF‐7 and MCF‐10A) using dispersive Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectra of the cell lines have revealed that basic differences in the concentration of biochemical compounds such as lipids, nucleic acids and protein Raman peaks were found to differ in intensity, and principal component analysis (PCA) was able to identify variations that lead to accurate and reliable separation of the three cell lines. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) model of three cell lines was predicted with 100% sensitivity and 91% specificity. We have shown that a combination of Raman spectroscopy and chemometrics are capable of differentiation between breast cancer cell lines. These variations may be useful in identifying new spectral markers to differentiate different subtypes of breast cancer although this needs confirmation in a larger panel of cell lines as well as clinical material. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trypsin from unicorn leatherjacket (Aluterus monoceros) pyloric caeca: purification and its use for preparation of fish protein hydrolysate with antioxidative activity
Authors: Zamani Abbas , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND

Fish proteases, especially trypsin, could be used to prepare fish protein hydrolysates with antioxidative activities. In this study, trypsin from the pyloric caeca of unicorn leatherjacket was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation and soybean trypsin inhibitor (SBTI)–Sepharose 4B affinity chromatography. Hydrolysate from Indian mackerel protein isolate with different degrees of hydrolysis (20, 30 and 40% DH) was prepared using the purified trypsin, and antioxidative activities (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical‐scavenging activities, ferric‐reducing antioxidant power and ferrous‐chelating activity) of the hydrolysate were determined.

RESULTS

Trypsin was purified 26.43‐fold with a yield of 13.43%. The purified trypsin had a molecular weight (MW) of 23.5 kDa and optimal activity at pH 8.0 and 55 °C. It displayed high stability in the pH range of 6.0–11.0 and was thermally stable up to 50 °C. Both SBTI (0.05 mmol L−1) and N‐p‐tosyl‐l‐lysine‐chloromethylketone (5 mmol L−1) completely inhibited trypsin activity. Antioxidative activities of the hydrolysate from Indian mackerel protein isolate increased with increasing DH up to 40% (P < 0.05). Based on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the hydrolysate with 40% DH had a MW lower than 6.5 kDa.

CONCLUSION

The purified protease from unicorn leatherjacket pyloric caeca was identified as trypsin based on its ability to hydrolyze a specific synthetic substrate and the response to specific trypsin inhibitors. The purified trypsin could hydrolyze Indian mackerel protein isolate, and the resulting hydrolysate exhibited antioxidative activity depending on its DH. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Long‐term functional outcomes in surgically treated patients with oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Dale Oliver T. , Han Cheng , Burgess Christopher A. , Eves Susannah , Harris Carol E. , White Penny L. , Shah Rupali T. , Howard Alison , Winter Stuart C.
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

As survival rates in oropharyngeal cancer improve, long‐term functional outcomes are increasingly important to understand. We report long‐term functional outcomes in a cohort of surviving patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treated with primary surgery ± radiotherapy.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Patients undergoing primary surgery for oropharyngeal cancer in Oxford, United Kingdom, between 2000 and 2010 were identified. The University of Washington Quality‐of‐ Life and MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory questionnaires were sent to all patients. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine the relationship between clinical factors and swallowing outcomes.

Results

Twenty percent of patients required gastrostomy‐tube placement (mean feed duration, 114 days). On multivariate analysis, increased age, advanced T stage, and an open surgical approach were associated with significantly reduced quality‐of‐life scores.

Conclusions

Mean functional scores were comparable to previously published series of patients treated with primary surgery. Gastrostomy insertion rate was lower than in many previously published studies. Furthermore, specific variables have been identified that are associated with adverse functional outcome.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:1637–1643, 2015
Emergency department presentation for uncomplicated acute rhinosinusitis is associated with poor access to healthcare
Authors: Scangas George A. , Ishman Stacey L. , Bergmark Regan W. , Cunningham Michael J. , Sedaghat Ahmad R.
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Uncomplicated acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) is most appropriately managed in an outpatient clinic setting. Some ARS patients present to emergency departments (EDs) for care. We investigates factors associated with ARS presentation to EDs versus outpatient settings.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 17,122,551 pediatric and adult patient visits from the 2009 and 2010 National Ambulatory Medical Care and National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Surveys for ARS were identified. Patients with ARS complications were excluded. Univariate and multivariate associations identified demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of ARS patients independently associated with ED presentation. Temperature >100°F was used as a proxy for ARS severity.

Results

Patients with Medicaid (odds ratio [OR] = 10.82, P < .001) or no insurance (OR = 9.14, P < .001) more likely presented to EDs when compared to patients with private insurance or Medicare. Independently, black patients (OR = 6.01, P < .001) more likely presented to EDs when compared to white or Hispanic patients. No significant association was seen with metropolitan or socioeconomic status based upon the patients' home zip code.

Conclusions

Presentation of ARS patients to EDs is associated with health insurance type and patient race independent of socioeconomic status. Healthcare access appears to be a primary determinant of whether patients present to an ED or outpatient setting for this common health problem. The association between race and ED presentation suggests cultural underpinnings requiring further characterization. Reducing barriers to care, for example through broader health insurance coverage, may enhance access to outpatient care providers and decrease costs associated with unnecessary ED presentation.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:2253–2258, 2015
Is it necessary to retain the tensor tympani tendon in tympanoplasty?
Authors: Deng Rui , Ou Xiong , Tao Duoduo , Fang Yanqing , Liuyang Wenyi , Chen Bing
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the acoustic effect after canal wall‐down tympanoplasty with sectioning of the tensor tympani muscle (TTM) tendon in patients with chronic otitis media.

Study Design

Prospective, controlled clinical trial.

Methods

From January 2010 to April 2014, 212 patients underwent canal wall‐down tympanoplasty with ossicular chain reconstruction in one‐stage surgery. For this study, the patients were assigned to two groups. In group 1 (107 patients), the TTM tensor would be removed during the surgery, whereas it would be retained in group 2 (105 patients). Pre‐ and postoperative air conduction and bone conduction thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz were reported, and the air‐bone gaps (ABGs) were measured.

Results

Mean postoperative ABG was 16.0 dB in group 1 and 17.0 dB in group 2 and the ABG closure was 11.9 ± 8.5 in group 1 and 11.8 ± 9.7 in group 2. Both were not statistically different (P = .2381 and P = .9625). Overall, 84.1% of patients in group 1 and 75.2% of patients in group 2 attained a postoperative ABG of 20 dB or less. Success rate in group 1 is slightly higher than group 2, but not significant (P = .1255).

Conclusions

The section of the tensor tympani muscle tendon in canal wall‐down tympanoplasty with ossiculoplasty had no statistically significant influence on sound transmission and can be a safe maneuver in middle ear surgery.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:2358–2361, 2015
Assessment of superior semicircular canal thickness with advancing age
Authors: Davey Shaun , Kelly‐Morland Christian , Phillips John S. , Nunney Ian , Pawaroo Davina
Published: March 2015

Objective

To determine whether superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) is more prevalent with advancing age.

Study Design

Retrospective observational study.

Methods

High‐resolution computed‐tomographic temporal bone scans were identified for patients of all ages and analyzed by two independent assessors. Multiplanar reconstruction was applied, and the thinnest area of temporal bone overlying each superior semicircular canal (SSC) was measured.

Results

A sample of 121 patients was analyzed that contained an almost identical number of male and female patients. In total, 242 temporal bone images were reviewed. Patients' ages ranged between 6 and 86 years. Age was shown to have a significant linear relationship (P < 0.001) such that for every unit increase in age the predicted thickness was reduced by 0.0047 mm.

Conclusions

The thickness of the SSC decreases with advancing age.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:1940–1945, 2015
Pulse steroid therapy in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Eftekharian Ali , Amizadeh Maryam
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate in patients with idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss whether pulse therapy with methylprednisolone leads to better recovery of hearing than traditional oral prednisolone therapy.

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Sixty‐seven patients diagnosed with idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss were randomly divided into two groups based on therapy. The study group received 500‐mg daily intravenous methylprednisolone for 3 consecutive days, followed by 1 mg/kg (maximum 60 mg) oral prednisolone for 11 days (total treatment: 14 days). The control group received 1 mg/kg (maximum 60 mg) oral prednisolone for 14 days. Hearing change was evaluated by comparing initial hearing tests and the third‐month hearing tests in three ways: 1) pure tone improvement in each individual tone (0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 4 kHz); 2) word‐recognition score improvement; and 3) complete, partial, and no recovery of hearing calculated (as defined by American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Clinical Practice Guidelines).

Results

Sixty of 67 patients, 29 of 34 patients in the study group and 31 of 33 patients in the control group, completed the study. Frequency‐specific hearing improvement did not differ significantly among the groups. Word‐recognition score improvement was 20.34% ± 27.35% for the study group and 13.41% ± 23.48% for the control group, which had no statistically significant difference. There was also no significant difference in hearing recovery rates for the two groups.

Conclusion

Pulse therapy with methylprednisolone and traditional oral prednisolone therapy resulted in similar hearing improvement.

Level of Evidence

1b. Laryngoscope, 126:150–155, 2016
Trauma patterns, symptoms, and complications associated with external auditory canal fractures
Authors: Burchhardt Daniela M. , David John , Eckert Robert , Robinette Natasha L. , Carron Michael A. , Zuliani Giancarlo F.
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

External auditory canal (EAC) trauma, although rare, can have significant long‐term adverse outcomes. This study aims to investigate the frequency, treatment, and complications of external ear canal injury in association with mandibular and temporal bone trauma.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

Computed tomography images with mandibular or temporal bone trauma were reviewed for EAC fractures. Patient data were collected from initial presentation and subsequent follow‐up clinic visits.

Results

Thirty‐nine percent of temporal bone fractures and 3.3% of mandible trauma involved the EAC. In particular, 10% of condylar or subcondylar trauma included an EAC fracture (P = 0.0006). One patient sustained bilateral EAC fractures despite an isolated, unilateral condylar fracture. The most common presenting sign was blood in the external auditory canal. Two patients underwent exam under anesthesia and removal of debris and stenting as treatment, whereas 42% of the patients were placed on otic drops and 5% received packing or a stent. Follow‐up data were only available for 16% of the patients. Hearing loss from otic capsule involvement or ossicular chain disruption were follow‐up complaints, and one patient had persistent canal stenosis.

Conclusions

External auditory canal trauma is present in a significant proportion of mandibular and temporal bone trauma, including both condylar and noncondylar fractures with a higher incidence of condylar fractures. One case was seen with bilateral EAC fractures despite a unilateral mandibular fracture. Complications of these fractures can include hearing loss and canal stenosis; however, additional outpatient follow‐up is needed to further elucidate long‐term complications and shape treatment recommendations.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:1579–1582, 2015
The influence of spray cryotherapy on wound healing following endoscopic sinus surgery in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Albu Silviu , Trombitas Veronica , Vlad Diana , Emanuelli Enzo
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of spray cryotherapy on wound healing following endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

Study Design

A prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, controlled trial.

Methods

The study included 22 consecutive adult patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with and without polyps scheduled for bilateral ESS. At the end of the surgical procedure, patients were randomized to the distribution of spray cryotherapy in one middle meatus and saline contralaterally. Outcomes were only measured for endoscopy scores. Thus, postoperative healing and the amount of edema, crusting, secretions, and scarring were assessed using the validated Lund‐Kennedy and Perioperative Sinus Endoscopy (POSE) scores.

Results

There were no baseline differences concerning POSE and Lund‐Kennedy scores between the two groups. Nevertheless, a significant difference was recorded at one, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks in both POSE (P = .001, P = .012, P = .02, P = .006, P = .001) and Lund‐Kennedy (P = .002, P = .005, P = .02, P = .02, P = .03) scores.

Conclusions

These preliminary results reveal an improvement in postoperative scores, demonstrating enhanced healing following spray cryotherapy. However, without patient subjective outcomes, the study is limited. Additional studies with longer follow‐up and larger samples are needed to describe the effects of cryotherapy on wound healing.

Level of Evidence

1b. Laryngoscope, 126:25–32, 2016
Organic Carbon and Alkalinity Increase in Topsoil After Rangeland Restoration Through Atriplex nummularia Plantation
Authors: Zucca Claudio , Arrieta Garcia Sabina , Deroma Mario , Madrau Salvatore
Published: March 2015

This research studied the impact of fodder shrub plantations (Atriplex nummularia Lindl.) on topsoil properties, with particular reference to organic carbon, nitrogen, and soluble salts, in the Marrakech region (central Morocco). The studied plantation interventions were carried out to rehabilitate degraded rangeland and to mitigate desertification. The field experiment was conducted by drawing seventeen 50‐m‐long transects designed according to the ecological patch–interpatch approach defined by the Landscape Function Analysis. The top soil (0–5 cm) was sampled in 134 microsites, covering the main patch and interpatch types in plantation and control plots. The following variables were determined: pH, carbonates, organic carbon, total nitrogen, electrical conductivity, and soluble ions (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+ Cl−, NO3−, SO42− and PO43−). Statistical analyses were carried out to analyse changes between sites and between patch types. Most of the studied properties were strongly affected by the spatial pattern defined by the plantation, particularly when the sites with higher biomass production were considered. Organic carbon increased by around 63% and 117% when the under canopy patches were compared, respectively, to the between‐plants interpatches and to the control plots, a strong positive effect considering the aridity of the study area. On the other hand, a stronger increase was detected under canopy for most soluble salts and sodium adsorption rate. On average, the latter increased by 350% and up to 450% under the best developed plants, a stronger impact than observed in previous research, highlighting the very strong plant effect on the soil surface alkalinity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Patterns and predictors of sexual function after liver donation: The adult‐to‐adult living donor liver transplantation cohort study
Authors: DiMartini Andrea F. , Dew Mary Amanda , Butt Zeeshan , Simpson Mary Ann , Ladner Daniela P. , Smith Abigail R. , Hill‐Callahan Peg , Gillespie Brenda W.
Published: March 2015

Although sexual functioning is an important facet of a living donor's quality of life, it has not received an extensive evaluation in this population. Using data from the Adult‐to‐Adult Living Donor Liver Transplantation Cohort Study, we examined donor sexual functioning across the donation process from the predonation evaluation to 3 months and 1 year after donation. Donors (n = 208) and a comparison group of nondonors (n = 155) completed self‐reported surveys with specific questions on sexual desire, satisfaction, orgasm, and (for men) erectile function. Across the 3 time points, donor sexual functioning was lower at the evaluation phase and 3 months after donation versus 1 year after donation. In the early recovery period, abdominal pain was associated with difficulty reaching orgasm [odds ratio (OR), 3.98; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.30‐12.16], concerns over appearance were associated with lower sexual desire (OR, 4.14; 95% CI, 1.02‐16.79), and not feeling back to normal was associated with dissatisfaction with sexual life (OR, 3.58; 95% CI, 1.43‐8.99). Efforts to educate donors before the surgery and prepare them for the early recovery phase may improve recovery and reduce distress regarding sexual functioning. Liver Transpl 21:670‐682, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Combinations of biomarkers and Milan criteria for predicting hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after liver transplantation
Authors: Chaiteerakij Roongruedee , Zhang Xiaodan , Addissie Benyam D. , Mohamed Essa A. , Harmsen William S. , Theobald Paul J. , Peters Brian E. , Balsanek Joseph G. , Ward Melissa M. , Giama Nasra H. , Moser Catherine D. , Oseini Abdul M. , Umeda Naoki , Venkatesh Sudhakar , Harnois Denise M. , Charlton Michael R. , Yamada Hiroyuki , Satomura Shinji , Algeciras‐Schimnich Alicia , Snyder Melissa R. , Therneau Terry M. , Roberts Lewis R.
Published: March 2015

Growing evidence suggests that pretransplant alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) predicts outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients treated with liver transplantation. We aimed to determine whether pretransplant AFP, Lens culinaris agglutinin‐reactive alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP‐L3), and des‐gamma‐carboxyprothrombin (DCP) predicted HCC recurrence after transplantation. A retrospective cohort study of 313 HCC patients undergoing transplantation between 2000 and 2008 was conducted, and 48 (15.3%) developed recurrence during a median follow‐up of 90.8 months. The 127 patients with available serum drawn before transplantation were included; they included 86 without recurrence and 41 with recurrence. Serum was tested for AFP, AFP‐L3%, and DCP in a blinded fashion with the μTASWako i30 immunoanalyzer. All biomarkers were significantly associated with HCC recurrence. The hazard ratios (HRs) were 3.5 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.9‐6.7; P < 0.0001] for DCP ≥ 7.5 ng/mL and 2.8 (95% CI, 1.4‐5.4; P = 0.002) for AFP ≥ 250 ng/mL. The HR increased to 5.2 (95% CI, 2.3‐12.0; P < 0.0001) when AFP ≥ 250 ng/mL and DCP ≥7.5 ng/mL were considered together. When they were combined with the Milan criteria, the HR increased from 2.6 (95% CI, 1.4‐4.7; P = 0.003) for outside the Milan criteria to 8.6 (95% CI, 3.0‐24.6; P < 0.0001) for outside the Milan criteria and AFP ≥ 250 ng/mL and to 7.2 (95% CI, 2.8‐18.1; P < 0.0001) for outside the Milan criteria and DCP ≥7.5 ng/mL. Our findings suggest that biomarkers are useful for predicting the risk of HCC recurrence after transplantation. Using both biomarkers and the Milan criteria may be better than using the Milan criteria alone in optimizing the decision of liver transplantation eligibility. Liver Transpl 21:599–606, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
THINK—OR SINK
Authors: Bolman Lee G. , Deal Terrence E.
Published: March 2015

Today's leaders require the proper mental models for our “VUCA (volatile‐uncertain‐complex‐ambiguous)” world, in the estimation of Bolman and Deal. Although mental models are known by a variety of terms (such as paradigms and mind‐sets), here they are called frames. Bolman and Deal write that a “frame is an amalgam of beliefs and assumptions that you carry in your head to help you understand and negotiate some part of your world.” Four different frames are described: structural, human resource, political, and symbolic. These frames provide different ways of looking at and perceiving situations, giving leaders multiple perspectives for the inherently messy and ambiguous situations they regularly encounter.
WHAT NELSON MANDELA TAUGHT THE WORLD ABOUT LEADERSHIP
Authors: Pietersen Willie
Published: March 2015

More than a year after Nelson Mandela's death, the world has much to learn from his leadership, says South Africa–born Pietersen. Mandela's life and leadership style are described, and Pietersen delivers a crisp explanation of apartheid, which “robbed the black majority of their dignity by treating them as inferior human beings without the rights and privileges enjoyed by whites.” Three domains of integrated leadership are outlined: personal leadership, interpersonal leadership, and strategic leadership. He particularly emphasizes Mandela's remarkable mastery of self and “profound empathy,” which helped enable his transition from prisoner to president.
Spotlight on movement disorders: What optogenetics has to offer
Authors: Rossi Mark A. , Calakos Nicole , Yin Henry H.
Published: March 2015

Elucidating the neuronal mechanisms underlying movement disorders is a major challenge because of the intricacy of the relevant neural circuits, which are characterized by diverse cell types and complex connectivity. A major limitation of traditional techniques, such as electrical stimulation or lesions, is that individual elements of a neural circuit cannot be selectively manipulated. Moreover, available treatments are largely based on trial and error rather than a detailed understanding of the circuit mechanisms. Gaps in our knowledge of the circuit mechanisms for movement disorders, as well as mechanisms underlying known treatments such as deep brain stimulation, make it difficult to design new and improved treatment options. In this perspective, we discuss how optogenetics, which allows researchers to use light to manipulate neuronal activity, can contribute to the understanding and treatment of movement disorders. We outline the advantages and limitations of optogenetics and discuss examples of studies that have used this tool to clarify the role of the basal ganglia circuitry in movement. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The ureteric bud epithelium: Morphogenesis and roles in metanephric kidney patterning
Authors: Nagalakshmi Vidya K. , Yu Jing
Published: March 2015

The mammalian metanephric kidney is composed of two epithelial components, the collecting duct system and the nephron epithelium, that differentiate from two different tissues —the ureteric bud epithelium and the nephron progenitors, respectively—of intermediate mesoderm origin. The collecting duct system is generated through reiterative ureteric bud branching morphogenesis, whereas the nephron epithelium is formed in a process termed nephrogenesis, which is initiated with the mesenchymal–epithelial transition of the nephron progenitors. Ureteric bud branching morphogenesis is regulated by nephron progenitors, and in return, the ureteric bud epithelium regulates nephrogenesis. The metanephric kidney is physiologically divided along the corticomedullary axis into subcompartments that are enriched with specific segments of these two epithelial structures. Here, we provide an overview of the major molecular and cellular processes underlying the morphogenesis and patterning of the ureteric bud epithelium and its roles in the cortico‐medullary patterning of the metanephric kidney. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 151–166, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel profibrotic mechanism mediated by TGFβ‐stimulated collagen prolyl hydroxylase expression in fibrotic lung mesenchymal cells
Authors: Luo Yongfeng , Xu Wei , Chen Hui , Warburton David , Dong Rachel , Qian Bangping , Selman Moisés , Gauldie Jack , Kolb Martin , Shi Wei
Published: March 2015

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a severe chronic lung disease with a high mortality rate. Excessive TGFβ signalling is recognized as a central player in lung fibrosis. However, the related mechanisms remain unclear. Herein we used a novel Tbx4 lung enhancer‐driven Tet‐On transgenic system to inhibit TGFβ signalling in mouse lung‐resident mesenchymal cells at different stages of bleomycin‐induced fibrosis, by conditionally knocking out TGFβ receptor II or expressing a dominant‐negative TGFβ receptor II. Abrogation of mesenchymal TGFβ signalling markedly attenuated bleomycin‐induced fibrotic pathology, which was independent of altered early inflammation. Furthermore, a novel TGFβ downstream target gene P4HA3 (an α‐subunit of collagen prolyl hydroxylase) was identified, and its expression was significantly increased in fibroblastic foci of both bleomycin‐induced fibrotic mouse lungs and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients' lungs. The relationship between activated TGFβ signalling, up‐regulation of P4HA3 and increased hydroxyproline/collagen production was further verified in cultured lung fibroblasts. Moreover, inhibition of collagen prolyl hydroxylase by pyridine‐2,5‐dicarboxylate attenuated TGFβ‐stimulated collagen production in both cultured fibroblasts and bleomycin‐induced mouse lung fibrosis. These data indicate that increased expression and activity of collagen prolyl hydroxylase is one of the important mechanisms underlying TGFβ‐mediated profibrotic effects. Inhibition of collagen prolyl hydroxylase may be a new, promising approach for preventing and treating pulmonary fibrosis. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic screening and identification of microRNA‐128 targets in glioma cells
Authors: Yang Bin , Wang Shan , Zeng Jiawei , Zhang Yu , Ruan Xiangbin , Han Wei , Yin Bin , Yuan Jiangang , Qiang Boqin , Ying Wantao , Qian Xiaohong , Peng Xiaozhong
Published: March 2015

Brain‐enriched miR‐128 is repressed in glioma cells, and could inhibit the proliferation of gliomas by targeting genes such as E2F3a and BMI1. To identify more targets of miR‐128 in glioblastoma multiforme, the pulse stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (pSILAC) technique was used to test its impact on whole protein synthesis in T98G glioma cells. We successfully identified 1897 proteins, of which 1459 proteins were quantified. Among them, 133 proteins were downregulated after the overexpression of miR‐128. Through predictions using various bioinformatics tools, 13 candidate target genes were chosen. A luciferase assay validated that 11 of 13 selected genes were potential targets of miR‐128, and a mutagenesis experiment confirmed CBFB, CORO1C, GLTP, HnRNPF, and TROVE2 as the target genes. Moreover, we observed that the expression of CORO1C, TROVE2, and HnRNPF were higher in glioma cell lines compared to normal brain tissues and presented a tendency toward downregulation after overexpression of miR‐128 in T98G cells. Furthermore, we have validated that CORO1C, TROVE2, and HnRNPF could inhibit glioma cell proliferation. In sum, our data showed that the integration of pSILAC and bioinformatics analysis was an efficient method for seeking the targets of miRNAs, and plentiful targets of miR‐128 were screened and laid the foundation for research into the miR‐128 regulation network.
Proteomics analysis of bodily fluids in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Pan Sheng , Brentnall Teresa A. , Chen Ru
Published: March 2015

Proteomics study of pancreatic cancer using bodily fluids emphasizes biomarker discovery and clinical application, presenting unique prospect and challenges. Depending on the physiological nature of the bodily fluid and its proximity to pancreatic cancer, the proteomes of bodily fluids, such as pancreatic juice, pancreatic cyst fluid, blood, bile, and urine, can be substantially different in terms of protein constitution and the dynamic range of protein concentration. Thus, a comprehensive discovery and specific detection of cancer‐associated proteins within these varied fluids is a complex task, requiring rigorous experiment design and a concerted approach. While major challenges still remain, fluid proteomics studies in pancreatic cancer to date have provided a wealth of information in revealing proteome alterations associated with pancreatic cancer in various bodily fluids.
Cryopreservation‐induced alterations in protein composition of rainbow trout semen
Authors: Nynca Joanna , Arnold Georg J. , Fröhlich Thomas , Ciereszko Andrzej
Published: March 2015

The aim of this study was to detect cryopreservation‐induced alterations in the protein composition of rainbow trout semen using two independent methods 1DE SDS‐PAGE prefractionation combined with LC‐MS/MS and 2D difference gel electrophoresis followed by MALDI‐TOF/TOF identification. Here, we show the first comprehensive dataset of changes in rainbow trout semen proteome after cryopreservation, with a total of 73 identified proteins released from sperm to extracellular fluid, including mitochondrial, cytoskeletal, nuclear, and cytosolic proteins. Our study provides new information about proteins released from sperm, their relation to sperm structure and function, and changes of metabolism of sperm cells as a result of cryopreservation. The identified proteins represent potential markers of cryoinjures of sperm structures and markers of the disturbances of particular sperm metabolic pathways. Further studies will allow to decipher the precise function of the proteins altered during rainbow trout cryopreservation and are useful for the development of extensive diagnostic tests of sperm cryoinjures and for the successful improvement of sperm cryopreservation of this economically important species.
‘Warm’ Tundra: Atmospheric and Near‐Surface Ground Temperature Inversions Across an Alpine Treeline in Continuous Permafrost, Western Arctic, Canada
Authors: O'Neill H. B. , Burn C. R. , Kokelj S. V. , Lantz T. C.
Published: March 2015

Permafrost conditions were examined between 2010 and 2014 at four sites across an alpine treeline on Peel Plateau, Northwest Territories, Canada. Ground and air temperature sensors were installed in forest and tundra between 30 and 500 m asl. Annual mean air temperatures increased and the number of freezing degree days declined with elevation, due to persistent winter air temperature inversions. The annual mean temperature at the permafrost surface (Tps) in mineral soils increased with elevation from about −2.5 °C in lowland forest to about −1.5 °C in dwarf shrub tundra. The increase in Tps coincided with higher air temperatures and earlier snow accumulation at tundra sites. The higher Tps in alpine tundra compared to lowland forest in Peel Plain contrasts with the northward decrease in Tps across latitudinal treeline elsewhere in the western Arctic. An increase in Tps with elevation may be common in Arctic mountain environments due to the prevalence of atmospheric temperature inversions in winter. In such contexts, although vegetation characteristics are governed by summer climate, permafrost conditions are critically influenced by the winter regime. The tundra permafrost on Peel Plateau is considerably warmer and, hence, more sensitive to disturbance than perennially frozen ground north of treeline in other parts of the western Arctic. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Noah Modelling of the Permafrost Distribution and Characteristics in the West Kunlun Area, Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Chen Hao , Nan Zhuotong , Zhao Lin , Ding Yongjian , Chen Ji , Pang Qiangqiang
Published: March 2015

The Noah land surface model (LSM) can simulate well the hydrological and thermal processes of permafrost in the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau (QTP) and provides more permafrost metrics than those of statistical empirical models. The aim of this study was to develop a prototype for permafrost modelling by Noah and validate the model with field data. This was accomplished by modifying Noah, introducing a new thermal roughness scheme, a parameter calibration method and extending the simulation depth to allow for soil heterogeneity. The modified Noah LSM was validated using observations from the Tanggula meteorological station. Key permafrost metrics were simulated, including mean annual ground temperature (MAGT) at the depth of zero annual amplitude (DZAA), active layer thickness (ALT) and ground ice content of the West Kunlun area in the QTP. The permafrost distribution of the West Kunlun was mapped using the simulated MAGT and compared to a permafrost distribution map based on field observations. Data from ten boreholes were used for verification. The simulation error of the MAGT is less than 1.0 °C for eight boreholes, and the ALT simulations have relative errors of less than 25 per cent for seven boreholes. The Kappa coefficient for the two maps is 0.70. Permafrost characteristics including the distribution of different permafrost types, DZAA, ALT, MAGT and ground ice content in the West Kunlun are strongly influenced by altitude and the local environment. Such permafrost modelling can be extended to the rest of the QTP. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigating the aggregation behaviour of DNA origami frames
Authors: Fischer Franziska , Henning‐Knechtel Anja , Mertig Michael
Published: March 2015

We describe the design, synthesis and aggregation behaviour of a biomolecular breadboard in the form of a DNA origami frame. Our findings focus on determining the shortest thermal annealing protocol, yielding correctly folded frames. In addition, we investigate the frames’ chain formation behaviour due to base stacking. By minor alterations in the origami design, we can deliberately avoid or induce this behaviour and influence the relative orientation of frames in the chains.

Aggregate formation of DNA origami frames using nucleic acid base stacking.
Compressive and dissipative behavior of metal rubber under constraints
Authors: Ma Yanhong , Gao Di , Zhang Dayi , Hong Jie
Published: March 2015

The paper describes the compressive and dissipative behavior of metal rubber (MR) solids under constraint conditions. The MR samples have been tested with different amounts of lateral restraint; the results show that the stiffness and loss factor increase significantly with increasing constraint. For the 0.21 relative density samples, when they reached an equivalent relative density of 0.23 caused by constraints, the samples exhibited larger loss factor (about 0.3) and tangent modulus (105 MPa). However, for the 0.23 relative density MRs, they exhibited smaller loss factor (about 0.16) and tangent modulus (about 16.5 MPa) without constraint. The MR samples with different relative densities showed similar behaviors. The results indicate that MR under constraints exhibits unique behavior and cannot be simplified into the same density MR under different constraint conditions.
Trapped charge‐induced pyroelectric‐like transient response in single high‐resistivity Sb2Se3 nanowires
Authors: Ko T. Y. , Sun K. W.
Published: March 2015

Dynamic scanning photocurrent microscopy was applied to Sb2Se3 crystalline single nanowires (NWs) to analyze their transient photocurrent responses. These NWs exhibited switching behavior with rapid rise and decay times upon illumination by laser pulses. The estimated spectral responsivity and external quantum efficiency for a freshly‐prepared NW at a bias voltage of 0.3 V and excitation wavelength of 488 nm were ∼16.9 mA/W and ∼42.9%, respectively. A pyroelectric‐like current transient was observed with reduced spectral responsivity when nonpolar Sb2Se3 single‐crystalline NWs were excited by laser pulses. Because Sb2Se3 NWs were nonpyroelectric or ferroelectric, the pyroelectric‐like current could possibly be attributed to temperature dependent nonlinear space‐charge distributions. Defects produced by the external electrical bias generated and re‐distributed space charges in the NWs. As a result, the temperature dependent inhomogeneous electric field led to nonlinear expansions or contractions of the lattice (electrostriction) that can produce pyroelectric current. We obtained a lower bound of equivalent pyroelectric coefficient α ≥ 60.09 μC/m2 K from these materials by fitting the electrical transients. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Robust cascaded automatic cruise control of electric vehicles
Authors: Reichhartinger M. , Horn M.
Published: March 2015

This article focuses on automatic cruise control for electrically driven vehicles. The objective is to track a given vehicle‐velocity profile. For this type of application, the so‐called wheel slip plays a key role, as it is a measure for the force transmitted from the wheel to the road. Conventional wheel‐ slip controllers are usually activated if the absolute value of the slip exceeds pre‐assumed thresholds. Furthermore, it is distinguished between a braking and acceleration maneuver using separately designed and implemented controllers. In contrast, the proposed concept requires neither an activation strategy for the slip controller nor a distinction between braking and acceleration. The cascaded control structure is based upon adaptive‐gains super twisting sliding‐mode algorithm, and the friction force estimator is realized as a second‐order sliding‐mode observer with constant gains. The effectiveness and robustness of the proposed concept are demonstrated in numerical simulations using a complex multibody vehicle model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methods for proper handling of overrunning and underrunning in phase II designs for oncology trials
Authors: Englert Stefan , Kieser Meinhard
Published: March 2015

Phase II studies in oncology are frequently conducted as two‐stage single‐arm trials with a binary endpoint indicating tumor response. As a common feature of these designs, the sample sizes of the two stages and the decision rules for the interim and the final analysis have to be pre‐specified and adhered to strictly during the course of the trial in order to assure control of the type I error rate. In practice, however, the attained sample sizes often deviate from the planned ones leading to the situation of overrunning or underrunning. The currently available approaches to deal with this problem are either based on assumptions that are rarely met in practice or do not guarantee that the significance level is kept. However, strict control of the type I error rate plays an important role also for single‐arm cancer trials, as they are frequently a fundamental part of the registration information. We propose a general methodology that allows handling both unintentional and intentional overrunning and underrunning while strictly controlling the type I error rate. Application of the proposed procedure and some of its characteristics are illustrated with a real phase II oncology trial. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Citation footprints on the sands of time: An analysis of idea migrations in strategic management
Authors: Nerur Sridhar , Rasheed Abdul A. , Pandey Alankrita
Published: March 2015

We elucidate the intellectual progression of the strategic management field by examining knowledge flows to and from the Strategic Management Journal (SMJ) during the period 1980–2009. We provide a detailed mapping of the evolution of the intellectual structure of the field and identify its input‐output dependency relationships with other fields. Analysis of citation data using three analytic techniques: log‐multiplicative model, pathfinder analysis, and entropy analysis allow us to discern strategic management's influence on and engagement with other disciplines. The results show that, within the intellectual universe of strategic management, SMJ has played a central role, both as a source and storer of knowledge. We notice that, over time, there has been a decline in practitioner orientation, greater communication with finance and sociology, and increasing linkages with international business and entrepreneurship. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Entrepreneurial failure: Statistical and psychological explanations
Authors: Artinger Sabrina , Powell Thomas C.
Published: March 2015

Research summary: Entrepreneurial start‐ups suffer high rates of business failure. Previous research on entrepreneurial failure has focused on two kinds of explanations: statistical and psychological. Statistical explanations attribute excess entry to random errors made by boundedly rational entrepreneurs attempting to estimate business opportunities in risky markets. Psychological explanations focus on entrepreneurial overconfidence and competition neglect. These explanations emerged independently and have not been tested or compared in the same study. In this experimental study, we distinguish entrepreneurial markets from other types of markets and test statistical and psychological hypotheses for all market types. We find that excess entry is significantly greater in small, risky markets than in other market types, and that confidence levels account for excess entry, over and above the effects of unbiased statistical errors.

Managerial summary: How can we explain the fact that most entrepreneurial ventures fail within five years? Market risk, inadequate capital and inexperienced management certainly play a role. However, from an economic point of view, it seems odd that inexperienced, under‐funded people continue to engage in risky behavior that is widely known to fail. We conducted experiments that tested two explanations of entrepreneurial failure. The first explanation – the statistical hypothesis – argues that entrepreneurship involves high uncertainty, so random errors are inevitable and can produce excess entry (or under‐entry). The second explanation – the psychological hypothesis – says that entrepreneurs' mistakes are not random but skewed heavily toward excess entry; hence, their decisions are distorted by psychological factors such as overconfidence. Our experiments found support for both of these explanations. Random errors under uncertainty explained 60% of the excess entry in our experiments. However, the overconfidence hypothesis correctly predicted that excess entry exceeds under‐entry, and our psychological measures of overconfidence found support in the data. We also found that the markets that most often attract entrepreneurial investment – emerging markets with high uncertainty – were the markets most conducive to excess entry, due to a combination of psychological and market factors. Hence, we conclude that potential entrepreneurs should pay less attention to their own abilities and aspirations, and more attention to the external realities of competition in the marketplace. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lightweight, latency‐aware routing for data compression in wireless sensor networks with heterogeneous traffics
Authors: Wang You‐Chiun , Wei Chia‐Ting
Published: March 2015

In many applications and scenarios, sensors have to regularly report what they monitor from the environment and quickly notify the sink node of event occurrence in the sensing field. An in‐network data reduction technique, such as data aggregation and data compression, can help diminish the amount of data sent from sensors, which not only saves the network bandwidth but also preserves sensors' energy. However, such technique does not consider packet latency because of the aggregation or compression operation. When some sensors generate regular reports in lower data rates, their packets have to spend longer time to be aggregated or compressed, resulting in higher packet delays. Besides, when events occur, the network could suffer from instant congestion due to the generation of numerous event notifications. Motivated with the aforementioned observations, the paper develops a lightweight, latency‐aware routing for data compression (L2DC) scheme to reduce packet latency when applying the compression technique, to reduce the amount of data generated from sensors. L2DC gives event notifications a higher priority over regular reports and eliminates unnecessary notifications to avoid bursty network congestion. In addition, L2DC facilitates the data compression process by allowing each sensor to determine whether to keep packets for compression locally or to send them to a neighbor to be compressed in a distributed manner. Our L2DC scheme can be easily built on most ad hoc and sensor routing protocols because it provides auxiliary redundant packet elimination and relay node selection mechanisms to reduce packet latency. By using the ad hoc on‐demand distance vector protocol as the example, simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the L2DC scheme. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crossing the embryonic midline: molecular mechanisms regulating axon responsiveness at an intermediate target
Authors: Neuhaus‐Follini Alexandra , Bashaw Greg J.
Published: March 2015

In bilaterally symmetric animals, the precise assembly of neural circuitry at the midline is essential for coordination of the left and right sides of the body. Commissural axons must first be directed across the midline and then be prevented from re‐crossing in order to ensure proper midline connectivity. Here, we review the attractants and repellents that direct axonal navigation at the ventral midline and the receptors on commissural neurons through which they signal. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms that commissural axons use to switch their responsiveness to midline‐derived cues, so that they are initially responsive to midline attractants and subsequently responsive to midline repellents. WIREs Dev Biol 2015, 4:377–389. doi: 10.1002/wdev.185

This article is categorized under:

Nervous System Development > Flies

Nervous System Development > Vertebrates: General Principles