bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of penile metastasis
Authors: Mearini Luigi , Colella Renato , Zucchi Alessandro , Nunzi Elisabetta , Porrozzi Carlo , Porena Massimo
Published: October 2013

Penile cancer as primary disease is relatively rare in developed countries. The penis is a rare site of metastases in spite of its rich vascularization. Approximately 500 cases have been reported in the literature; almost 70% of primary lesions are of pelvic origin (from genitourinary or recto-sigmoid primary tumors). We describe a case of penile metastasis from lung cancer. The rarity of the event prompted us to also explore related reviews and discuss the incidence, physiopathology, diagnosis and therapy of penile secondary cancer.
Axillary dissection compared to sentinel node biopsy for the treatment of pathologically node-negative breast cancer: a meta-analysis of four randomized trials with long-term follow up
Authors: Petrelli Fausto , Lonati Veronica , Barni Sandro
Published: October 2013

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is now accepted as the initial approach for women with early stage breast cancer with clinically node-negative disease. We performed a pooled analysis of trials comparing axillary lymph node dissection to sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with early stage breast cancer and pathologically negative sentinel lymph node analysis. A systematic MEDLINE review identified four randomized trials of axillary dissection versus sentinel lymph node biopsy in lymph node-negative early stage breast cancer patients. A meta-analysis was performed for survival and relapse. The combined analyses of these four trials found no significant difference in overall survival (relative risk [RR] 1.15; P=0.16; 95% CI: 0.95-1.39), breast cancer-specific (RR 1.03; P=0.85; 95% CI: 0.75- 1.43) and disease-free survival (RR 1.07; P=0.3; 95% CI: 0.94-1.21), distant metastases (RR 1; P=0.98; 95% CI: 0.76-1.32), and ipsilateral breast recurrence (RR 1.64; P=0.34; 95% CI: 0.60-4.47) associated with sentinel lymph node biopsy. In particular, a similar rate of nodal recurrences was seen after sentinel lymph node biopsy (RR 1.74; P=0.13; 95% CI: 0.86- 3.53). Axillary dissection does not confer a survival benefit nor prevent further nodal relapses in the setting of early stage, pathologically lymph node-negative breast cancer.
The role of perioperative radiotherapy in gastric cancer
Authors: Batista Thales Paulo , De Mendonça Lucas Marque , Fassizoli-Fonte Ana Luiza
Published: October 2013

Gastric cancer is one of the most common neoplasms and a main cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Surgery remains the mainstay for cure and is considered for all patients with potentially curable disease. However, despite the fact that surgery alone usually leads to favorable outcomes in early stage disease, late diagnosis usually means a poor prognosis. In these settings, multimodal therapy has become the established treatment for locally advanced tumors, while the high risk of locoregional relapse has favored the inclusion of radiotherapy in the comprehensive therapeutic strategy. We provide a critical, non-systematic review of gastric cancer and discuss the role of perioperative radiation therapy in its treatment.
Benefits of remote real-time side-effect monitoring systems for patients receiving cancer treatment
Authors: Kofoed Sarah , Breen Sibilah , Gough Karla , Aranda Sanchia
Published: October 2013

In Australia, the incidence of cancer diagnoses is rising along with an aging population. Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, are increasingly being provided in the ambulatory care setting. Cancer treatments are commonly associated with distressing and serious sideeffects and patients often struggle to manage these themselves without specialized real-time support. Unlike chronic disease populations, few systems for the remote real-time monitoring of cancer patients have been reported. However, several prototype systems have been developed and have received favorable reports. This review aimed to identify and detail systems that reported statistical analyses of changes in patient clinical outcomes, health care system usage or health economic analyses. Five papers were identified that met these criteria. There was wide variation in the design of the monitoring systems in terms of data input method, clinician alerting and response, groups of patients targeted and clinical outcomes measured. The majority of studies had significant methodological weaknesses. These included no control group comparisons, small sample sizes, poor documentation of clinical interventions or measures of adherence to the monitoring systems. In spite of the limitations, promising results emerged in terms of improved clinical outcomes (e.g. pain, depression, fatigue). Health care system usage was assessed in two papers with inconsistent results. No studies included health economic analyses. The diversity in systems described, outcomes measured and methodological issues all limited between-study comparisons. Given the acceptability of remote monitoring and the promising outcomes from the few studies analyzing patient or health care system outcomes, future research is needed to rigorously trial these systems to enable greater patient support and safety in the ambulatory setting.
Characterisation and Pattern of Culling in Holstein Dairy Cows in Torbat-E-Jam Area, Northeast of Iran
Authors: Didarkhah Massod , Mesgaran Mohsen Danesh , Ibrahimi Khorram Abadi Elias , Jamili Fereshteh , Hosseini Seyed Mohammad
Published: October 2013

To describe proportion and pattern of culling in commercial dairy herds of Torbat-e-Jam region in northeastern of Iran, this survey was carried out over a period of 15 years from 1997 to 2011 in industrialized dairy herd. In total, the data of 4149 lactating cows have been used in this study. Overall, 415 (09.0%) cows were culled. The involuntary culling were mainly from infertility or reproductive disorders (4%), followed by metabolic and digestive disorders (3%), infection disease (1%) and lameness (1%). Infertility accounted for 55% of disposals in culled cows. Milk fever was the most important reason (26%) for culling due to metabolic and digestive track disorders. Pneumonia was the most common infectious disease that contributed to culling, and on average, it was responsible for 43% of disposals. Subacute mastitis accunted 88% of infection disease disposal. Bone fracture, vagal syndrome and foreign body accunted 19%, 31% and 38% of other disorders disposal, respectively. Aproximately, 13% of the recorded cullings were for unknown reasons. High proportion of infertility or reproductive culling specially poor fertility should be considered as an important economic loss and precaution measures are necessary to reduce this loss.
Nongenotoxic mechanisms involved in bromate‐induced cancer in rats
Authors: Bull Richard J. , Cotruvo Joseph A.
Published: October 2013

Risk assessments for bromate (BrO3−) in drinking water are based on linear extrapolation from the total incidence of tumors in male rats. The only genotoxic effects that might result from carcinogenic doses of BrO3− in vivo are the formation of 8‐oxodeoxyguanosine (8‐oxoG) in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and the production of micronuclei. The mutations in tumors are consistent with the 8‐oxoG adduct, and both effects are nonlinear with respect to dose. Treatment of rats with BrO3− resulted in bromination of protein tyrosines. The accumulation of these proteins in the kidney appeared to contribute to kidney cancer in male, but not female, rats. BrO3− increased the rate of apoptosis (programmed cell death) in the kidneys of rats of both sexes, an effect associated with increasing expression of antiapoptotic genes and proteins. Consequently, suppression of apoptosis is a likely mechanism for BrO3−‐induced kidney cancer. More limited data suggest nongenotoxic modes of action for thyroid tumors and mesotheliomas. If these hypotheses are confirmed, linear extrapolation of risk from low doses of BrO3− is inappropriate.
Generation of Glycosylphosphatidylinositol Anchor Protein-Deficient Blood Cells From Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Yuan Xuan , Braunstein Evan M. , Ye Zhaohui , Liu Cyndi F. , Chen Guibin , Zou Jizhong , Cheng Linzhao , Brodsky Robert A.
Published: October 2013

PIG-A is an X-linked gene required for the biosynthesis of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchors; thus, PIG-A mutant cells have a deficiency or absence of all GPI-anchored proteins (GPI-APs). Acquired mutations in hematopoietic stem cells result in the disease paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, and hypomorphic germline PIG-A mutations lead to severe developmental abnormalities, seizures, and early death. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can differentiate into cell types derived from all three germ layers, providing a novel developmental system for modeling human diseases. Using PIG-A gene targeting and an inducible PIG-A expression system, we have established, for the first time, a conditional PIG-A knockout model in human iPSCs that allows for the production of GPI-AP-deficient blood cells. PIG-A-null iPSCs were unable to generate hematopoietic cells or any cells expressing the CD34 marker and were defective in generating mesodermal cells expressing KDR/VEGFR2 (kinase insert domain receptor) and CD56 markers. In addition, PIG-A-null iPSCs had a block in embryonic development prior to mesoderm differentiation that appears to be due to defective signaling through bone morphogenetic protein 4. However, early inducible PIG-A transgene expression allowed for the generation of GPI-AP-deficient blood cells. This conditional PIG-A knockout model should be a valuable tool for studying the importance of GPI-APs in hematopoiesis and human development.
Photo‐Stable Organic Thin‐Film Transistor Utilizing a New Indolocarbazole Derivative for Image Pixel and Logic Applications
Authors: Park Ji Hoon , Lee Hee Sung , Park Soohyung , Min Sung‐Wook , Yi Yeonjin , Cho Cheon‐Gyu , Han Jiwon , Kim Tae Woong , Im Seongil
Published: October 2013

Small molecule pentacene layer has been a representative among many organic thin‐film transistor (OTFT) channels with decent p‐type mobilities, but it is certainly light‐sensitive due to its relatively small highest occupied molecular orbital‐lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO‐LUMO) gap (1.85 eV). Although a few other small molecule‐based layers have been reported later, their photo‐stabilities or related device applications have hardly been addressed. Here, a new photostable organic layer is reported, heptazole (C26H16N2), which has almost the same HOMO level as that of pentacene but with a higher HOMO‐LUMO gap (≈2.95 eV). This heptazole OTFT displays a decent mobility comparable to that of conventional amorphous Si TFTs, showing good photostability unlike pentacene OTFTs. An image pixel driving the photostable heptazole OTFT connected to a pentacene/Al Schottky photodiode is demonstrated. This heptazole OTFT also conveniently forms a logic inverter coupled with a pentacene OTFT, sharing Au for source/drain.
Spray‐Layer‐by‐Layer Carbon Nanotube/Electrospun Fiber Electrodes for Flexible Chemiresistive Sensor Applications
Authors: Saetia Kittipong , Schnorr Jan M. , Mannarino Matthew M. , Kim Sung Yeol , Rutledge Gregory C. , Swager Timothy M. , Hammond Paula T.
Published: October 2013

Development of a versatile method for incorporating conductive materials into textiles could enable advances in wearable electronics and smart textiles. One area of critical importance is the detection of chemicals in the environment for security and industrial process monitoring. Here, the fabrication of a flexible, sensor material based on functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) films on a porous electrospun fiber mat for real‐time detection of a nerve agent simulant is reported. The material is constructed by layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly of MWNTs with opposite charges, creating multilayer films of MWNTs without binder. The vacuum‐assisted spray‐LbL process enables conformal coatings of nanostructured MWNT films on individual electrospun fibers throughout the bulk of the mat with controlled loading and electrical conductivity. A thiourea‐based receptor is covalently attached to the primary amine groups on the MWNT films to enhance the sensing response to dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), a simulant for sarin nerve agent. Chemiresistive sensors based on the engineered textiles display reversible responses and detection limits for DMMP as low as 10 ppb in the aqueous phase and 5 ppm in the vapor phase. This fabrication technique provides a versatile and easily scalable strategy for incorporating conformal MWNT films into three‐dimensional substrates for numerous applications.
Engineered CpG‐Antigen Conjugates Protected Gold Nanoclusters as Smart Self‐Vaccines for Enhanced Immune Response and Cell Imaging
Authors: Tao Yu , Ju Enguo , Li Zhenhua , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: October 2013

A facile one‐pot synthesis of fluorescent AuNCs by using ovalbumin‐CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) conjugates as the templates, which can elicit specific immunological responses, is demonstrated. Through dual‐delivery of protein antigen and CpG ODNs, the as‐prepared AuNCs can act as smart self‐vaccines to assist in generation of high immunostimulatory activity while simultaneously act as an imaging agent. The AuNCs‐based vaccines are not thought to have not been reported so far, making this platform the first example of the usage of AuNCs as effective vaccines. Furthermore, compared with the antigen, the immunostimulatory activity of the as‐prepared AuNCs can not only be retained, but also can be effectively enhanced. These findings suggest the AuNCs‐based vaccines may be utilized as safe and efficient immunostimulatory agents that are able to prevent and/or treat a variety of ailments.
Ultra‐Small Iron Oxide Doped Polypyrrole Nanoparticles for In Vivo Multimodal Imaging Guided Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Song Xuejiao , Gong Hua , Yin Shengnan , Cheng Liang , Wang Chao , Li Zhiwei , Li Yonggang , Wang Xiaoyong , Liu Gang , Liu Zhuang
Published: October 2013

Recently, near‐infrared (NIR) absorbing conjugated polymeric nanoparticles have received significant attention in photothermal therapy of cancer. Herein, polypyrrole (PPy), a NIR‐absorbing conjugate polymer, is used to coat ultra‐small iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), obtaining multifunctional IONP@PPy nanocomposite which is further modified by the biocompatible polyethylene glycol (PEG) through a layer‐by‐layer method to acquire high stability in physiological solutions. Utilizing the optical and magnetic properties of the yielded IONP@PPy‐PEG nanoparticles, in vivo magnetic resonance (MR) and photoacoustic imaging of tumor‐bearing mice are conducted, revealing strong tumor uptake of those nanoparticles after intravenous injection. In vivo photothermal therapy is then designed and carried out, achieving excellent tumor ablation therapeutic effect in mice experiments. These results promise the use of multifunctional NIR‐absorbing organic‐inorganic hybrid nanomaterials, such as IONP@PPy‐PEG presented here, for potential applications in cancer theranostics.
A Hierarchically Organized Photoelectrode Architecture for Highly Efficient CdS/CdSe‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Park Jong Hoon , Kim Dong Hoe , Shin Seong Sik , Han Hyun Soo , Lee Myeong Hwan , Jung Hyun Suk , Noh Jun Hong , Hong Kug Sun
Published: October 2013

A form of photoelectrode architecture suitable for inorganic semiconductor solar cells is reported. The developed architecture consists of hierarchically organized TiO2 nanostructures with several tens of nanometer‐sized particles that have a large surface area and open channels with several hundred‐nanometer‐gaps perpendicular to the substrate. These are tailored by controlling the kinetic energy of the ablated species during pulsed laser deposition (PLD). To fabricate the solar cells, CdS and CdSe inorganic sensitizers are assembled onto the architecture by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction and polysulfide solution is used as an electrolyte with lead sulfide counter‐electrodes. The inorganic semiconductor solar cells using the developed architecture (PLD‐TiO2) show high energy conversion efficiencies of 5.57% compared to a conventional mesoporous TiO2 film(NP‐TiO2) (3.84%) with an optical mask at 1 sun of illumination. The improved cell performance of PLD‐TiO2 is attributed to greater light‐harvesting ability, which results in the enhancement of the Jsc value. PLD‐TiO2 absorbs more CdS/CdSe because of its larger surface area and excellent adhesion properties with fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates. Additionally, due to its unique channel‐shaped architecture, PLD‐TiO2 has a longer electron lifetime compared to NP‐TiO2.
Optimization of solvent crystallization process in obtaining high purity anthracene and carbazole from crude anthracene
Authors: Ye CuiPing , Zheng Huan , Wu TingTing , Fan MingMing , Feng Jie , Li WenYing
Published: October 2013

Solvent crystallization is the main method used for preparing anthracene and carbazole from the crude anthracene. The key to the optimization of this method is improving the solubility selectivity of the solvent by means of solvent modulating and process optimization. In this study, the solubility of anthracene, phenanthrene, and carbazole in xylene, dimethylformamide (DMF), DMF with amine/amide, isopropanolamine, and chlorobenzene is examined and the solid‐liquid ternary anthracene–carbazole–DMF/(DMF+19.96% isopropanolamine) system phase diagram is determined and applied in the solvent crystallization process. The results showed that the solubility selectivity of xylene increases with increased temperature. Also, selectivity increases with an increase of the amount of isopropanolamine in the mixture of DMF and isopropanolamine, while decreases with increased temperature. Through multiple washings of crude anthracene with xylene, DMF+19.96% isopropanolamine, and chlorobenzene, it was possible to obtain anthracene and carbazole of purity higher than 98 wt %. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 275–281, 2014
FOXP1 mutations cause intellectual disability and a recognizable phenotype
Authors: Le Fevre Anna K. , Taylor Sharelle , Malek Neva H. , Horn Denise , Carr Christopher W. , Abdul‐Rahman Omar A. , O'Donnell Sherindan , Burgess Trent , Shaw Marie , Gecz Jozef , Bain Nicole , Fagan Kerry , Hunter Matthew F.
Published: October 2013

Mutations in FOXP1, located at 3p13, have been reported in patients with global developmental delay (GDD), intellectual disability (ID), and speech defects. Mutations in FOXP2, located at 7q31, are well known to cause developmental speech and language disorders, particularly developmental verbal dyspraxia (DVD). FOXP2 has been shown to work co‐operatively with FOXP1 in mouse development. An overlap in FOXP1 and FOXP2 expression, both in the songbird and human fetal brain, has suggested that FOXP1 may also have a role in speech and language disorders. We report on a male child with a 0.19 MB intragenic deletion that is predicted to result in haploinsufficiency of FOXP1. Review of our patient and others reported in the literature reveals an emerging phenotype of GDD/ID with moderate to severe speech delay where expressive speech is most severely affected. DVD appears not to be a distinct feature in this group. Facial features include a broad forehead, downslanting palpebral fissures, a short nose with broad tip, relative or true macrocephaly, a frontal hair upsweep and prominent digit pads. Autistic traits and other behavioral problems are likely to be associated with haploinsufficiency of FOXP1. Congenital malformations may be associated. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequence analysis of 17NRXN1deletions
Authors: Hoeffding Louise Kristine Enggaard , Hansen Thomas , Ingason Andrés , Doung Linh , Thygesen Johan H. , Møller Rikke S. , Tommerup Niels , Kirov George , Rujescu Dan , Larsen Lars A. , Werge Thomas
Published: October 2013

Background

Genome instability plays fundamental roles in human evolution and phenotypic variation within our population. This instability leads to genomic rearrangements that are involved in a wide variety of human disorders, including congenital and neurodevelopmental disorders, and cancers. Insight into the molecular mechanisms governing such genomic rearrangements may increase our understanding of disease pathology and evolutionary processes. Here we analyse 17 carriers of non‐recurrent deletions in the NRXN1 gene, which have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, e.g. schizophrenia, autism and epilepsies.

Methods

17 non‐recurrent NRXN1 deletions identified by GWA were sequenced to map the breakpoints of each. Meme … etc. was used to identify shared patterns between the deletions and compare these were previously studies on non‐recurrent deletions.

Results

We discovered two novel sequence motifs shared between all 17 NRXN1 deletions and a significantly higher AT nucleotide content at the breakpoints, compared to the overall nucleotide content on chromosome 2. We found different alteration of sequence at the breakpoint; small insertions and duplications giving rise to short microhomology sequences.

Conclusions

No single mechanism seems to be implicated in the deletion events, but the results suggest that NHEJ, FoSTeS or MMBIR is implicated. The two novel sequence motifs together with a high AT content in all in NRXN1 deletions may lead to increased instability leading to a increase susceptibility to a single stranded structures. This favours potentially repaired by NHEJ mechanism of double strand breaks or may leading to replication errors. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Epoxidized natural rubber/epoxy blends: Phase morphology and thermomechanical properties
Authors: Mathew Viju Susan , George Soney C. , Parameswaranpillai Jyotishkumar , Thomas Sabu
Published: October 2013

Epoxidized natural rubbers (ENRs) were prepared. ENRs with different concentrations of up to 20 wt % were used as modifiers for epoxy resin. The epoxy monomer was cured with nadic methyl anhydride as a hardener in the presence of N,N‐dimethyl benzyl amine as an accelerator. The addition of ENR to an anhydride hardener/epoxy monomer mixture gave rise to the formation of a phase‐separated structure consisting of rubber domains dispersed in the epoxy‐rich phase. The particle size increased with increasing ENR content. The phase separation was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and dynamic mechanical analysis. The viscoelastic behavior of the liquid‐rubber‐modified epoxy resin was also evaluated with dynamic mechanical analysis. The storage moduli, loss moduli, and tan δ values were determined for the blends of the epoxy resin with ENR. The effect of the addition of rubber on the glass‐transition temperature of the epoxy matrix was followed. The thermal stability of the ENR‐modified epoxy resin was studied with thermogravimetric analysis. Parameters such as the onset of degradation, maximum degradation temperature, and final degradation were not affected by the addition of ENR. The mechanical properties of the liquid‐natural‐rubber‐modified epoxy resin were measured in terms of the fracture toughness and impact strength. The maximum impact strength and fracture toughness were observed with 10 wt % ENR modified epoxy blends. Various toughening mechanisms responsible for the enhancement in toughness of the diglycidyl ether of the bisphenol A/ENR blends were investigated. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39906.
LaF3 : Eu3+ nanocrystal/PNIPAM nanogels: Preparation, thermosensitive fluorescence performance and use as bioprobes for monitoring drug release
Authors: Yang Yang , Song Qiusheng , Gao Kang , Ma Haihong , Yang Sensen , Li Tan
Published: October 2013

Novel core–shell LaF3 : Eu3+ nanocrystals/PNIPAM nanogels were prepared by surface‐initiated living radical polymerization. The microstructure and performance of the LaF3 : Eu3+ nanocrystals and the hybrid nanogels were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), and photoluminescence (PL). The thermosensitive fluorescence behaviors of the core–shell nanogels and the drug release behaviors were investigated by PL at various temperatures. The results suggested that the fluorescence performance of the nanogels was influenced greatly by the ambient temperature, either content of Aspirin absorbed in the nanogels. Compared to other reported systems, our discovery could tell how much the nanogels contain Aspirin by detecting the fluorescence intensity. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39930.
Synergistic effect of aluminum hydroxide and expandable graphite on the flame retardancy of polyisocyanurate–polyurethane foams
Authors: Wang Wanjin , He Kui , Dong Quanxiao , Zhu Ning , Fan Yong , Wang Feng , Xia Yibing , Li Haifeng , Wang Jing , Yuan Zhen , Wang Erpo , Lai Zhenfeng , Kong Tao , Wang Xia , Ma Hongwen , Yang Mingshu
Published: October 2013

For the first time, expandable graphite (EG) and aluminum hydroxide (ATH) was combined to improve the flame retardancy of polyisocyanurate–polyurethane (PIR–PUR) foam. The limited oxygen index increased from 26.5 for the PIR–PUR matrix to an incredible value of 92.8 when 24 phr (parts per 100 of matrix) EG and 60 phr ATH were incorporated into the matrix. Based on morphology observation and thermogravimetric analysis, it was speculated that two factors contributed to the improvement of flame retardancy primarily. First, ATH could effectively induce “villi” like particles, which was useful to form a dense char. The compact char layer could effectively impede the transport of bubbles and heat. Second, ATH and EG accelerated the initial degradation and fluffy char was quickly generated on the surface of the composites. Thus, the degradation of the composite was slowed down and the diffusion of volatile combustible fragments to flame zone was delayed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39936.
Poly(ethyleneterephthalate) glycolysates as effective toughening agents for epoxy resin
Authors: Chaudhary Saurabh , Parthasarathy Surekha , Kumar Devendra , Rajagopal Chitra , Roy Prasun Kumar
Published: October 2013

The potential of poly(ethyleneterephthalate) glycolysates toward improving the energy absorption characteristics of cycloaliphatic epoxy resins has been explored. Microwave‐assisted glycolytic depolymerization of PET was performed in the presence of polyether diols of different molecular weights. The obtained glycolysates were blended with epoxy, and their mechanical properties were studied under both quasi‐static and dynamic conditions. Significant improvements were observed, which were found to depend both on the amount as well as nature of glycolysate. Amine functionalities were introduced at the terminal positions of glycolysates to improve the compatibility between the two phases. The amine derivatives exhibited superior performance and the Mode I fracture toughness (KIC) of epoxy increased by ∼18% in optimized compositions, which is indicative of its improved notch sensitivity. Neat epoxy specimens fractured in a brittle fashion, but all the blends exhibited ductile failure, as evidenced by surface morphological investigations. The mechanical properties of epoxy blends prepared with analogous aliphatic polyols, both before and after amine functionalization, were also studied which clearly reveal the beneficial role of aromatic groups toward improving the toughness of the base cycloaliphatic epoxy resin without compromising on the material stiffness. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39941.
Protective Effects of C‐Type Natriuretic Peptide on Linear Growth and Articular Cartilage Integrity in a Mouse Model of Inflammatory Arthritis
Authors: Bükülmez Hülya , Khan Fozia , Bartels Cynthia F. , Murakami Shunichi , Ortiz‐Lopez Adriana , Sattar Abdus , Haqqi Tariq M. , Warman Matthew L.
Published: October 2013

Objective

The C‐type natriuretic peptide (CNP) signaling pathway is a major contributor to postnatal skeletal growth in humans. This study was undertaken to investigate whether CNP signaling could prevent growth delay and cartilage damage in an animal model of inflammatory arthritis.

Methods

We generated transgenic mice that overexpress CNP (B6.SJL‐Col2a1‐NPPC) in chondrocytes. We introduced the CNP transgene into mice with experimental systemic inflammatory arthritis (K/BxN T cell receptor [TCR]) and determined the effect of CNP overexpression in chondrocytes on the severity of arthritis, cartilage damage, and linear growth. We also examined primary chondrocyte cultures for changes in gene and protein expression resulting from CNP overexpression.

Results

K/BxN TCR mice exhibited linear growth delay (P < 0.01) compared to controls, and this growth delay was correlated with the severity of arthritis. Diminished chondrocyte proliferation and matrix production was also seen in K/BxN TCR mice. Compared to non–CNP‐transgenic mice, K/BxN TCR mice with overexpressed CNP had milder arthritis, no growth delay, and less cartilage damage. Primary chondrocytes from mice overexpressing CNP were less sensitive to inflammatory cytokines than wild‐type mouse chondrocytes.

Conclusion

CNP overexpression in chondrocytes can prevent endochondral growth delay and protect against cartilage damage in a mouse model of inflammatory arthritis. Pharmacologic or biologic modulation of the CNP signaling pathway may prevent growth retardation and protect cartilage in patients with inflammatory joint diseases, such as juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Improved isoelectric focusing chromatography on strong anion exchange media via a new model that custom designs mobile phases using simple buffers
Authors: Choy Derek Y.C. , Creagh A. Louise , Haynes Charles
Published: October 2013

Isoelectric chromatofocusing (ICF), a mode of chromatography by which proteins are separated based on changes in their charge state with pH, is widely used at analytical scales and finding increasing interest in biologics manufacturing due to its exceptional resolving power. Here, a method is described for using simple monoprotic and diprotic buffers to create stable mobile phases for sample loading on a strong anion exchange column and for achieving an elution pH gradient of desired shape covering any pH range from pH 10.0 to 3. The buffers used are selected to satisfy cost constraints, and to permit facile detection of eluted biologics by UV spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The method exploits a new model described here that combines multiple‐chemical and adsorption‐equilibria theory to enable in silico tailoring of elution pH profiles using mixtures of these simple buffers. It is shown to provide a versatile platform for optimizing and conducting ICF of protein mixtures on strong anion exchange media. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 552–564. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Effect of Expertise on Memory Conformity: A Test of Informational Influence
Authors: Williamson Paul , Weber Nathan , Robertson Marie‐Therese
Published: October 2013

Conforming to erroneous memory reports of co‐witnesses can have serious impacts on subsequent forensic investigation and court reports. One theoretical explanation proposed is that memory conformity arises due to informational influence; the co‐witness desires to give accurate information and reports the co‐witness's version because they perceive the co‐witness as being more credible. We tested the idea that perceptions of credibility drive memory conformity. We manipulated credibility through expertise; specifically, by telling participants that the (confederate) co‐witness had previously worked as either a policeman (high expertise) or an electrician (low expertise). After a discussion with the co‐witness, we assessed cued‐recall memory and perceptions of credibility about the co‐witness and the self. We found that higher expertise led to greater memory conformity. Although higher expertise also led to higher credibility assessments of the co‐witness, this was only for perceptions of the credibility as an eye‐witness and memory confidence, neither of which predicted memory conformity. By contrast, memory accuracy of the co‐witness relative to self‐memory accuracy predicted memory conformity, but this was not affected by expertise. These results show support for an informational influence explanation but suggest that expertise perceptions operate differently from our explanation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Degradation of textile dyes under subcritical water conditions in the presence of hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Daneshvar Somayeh , Hidemi Nakamura , Salak Feridoun , Mahinpey Nader
Published: October 2013

Decolourisation and decomposition of acid orange 7 as a model for textile wastewater was performed under subcritical water conditions in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide showed very efficient activity for decolourisation of AO7. Complete decolourisation temperature of AO7 declined from 275 to 135°C when a sufficient amount of hydrogen peroxide was used in the reaction medium. The effects of several other parameters were also investigated. Reaction time as well as the initial amount of hydrogen peroxide showed great effect on the decolourisation and decomposition reactions. At the higher temperatures, it was found utilising UV/Vis scanning spectra that the dye decomposed into very small molecules and gaseous products; consequently, total organic carbon (TOC) amount of the solutions after subcritical water treatment significantly declined. The reactions carried out without formation of any solid materials. At the optimum conditions treatment of several different types of dyes were also investigated.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal from Urine by Sequential Struvite Formation and Recycling Process
Authors: Latifian Maryam , Holst Olle , Liu Jing
Published: October 2013

Recovering nutrients from urine as solid minerals such as struvite can eliminate many hurdles related to the use of liquid urine as fertilizer in the current urine separation systems. The focus of this study has been to increase nitrogen and phosphorus removal efficiencies by developing a struvite formation and recycling process. Struvite crystallization was carried out in urine samples by addition of MgO where 92% of phosphorus as orthophosphate was recovered. In order to optimize the use of calcined struvite in the struvite recycling step, four calcination treatments were tested and calcination at 200°C for 3 h was chosen for further experiments. To remove the remaining ammonia present in urine a struvite recycling step was used subsequently. Through sequential struvite formation and struvite recycling process up to 90% of ammonium nitrogen was successfully removed.
Invertebrate Communities and Environmental Conditions in a Series of Urban Drainage Ponds in Eastern Scotland: Implications for Biodiversity and Conservation Value of SUDS
Authors: Briers Robert A.
Published: October 2013

Increasing use is being made of constructed wetlands to store and treat urban drainage prior to release into watercourses. Known as sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) in the UK these have potential to support and enhance freshwater biodiversity in urban areas, but the diversity and value of communities present in these ponds is not well established. This study establishes the characteristics of invertebrate communities and investigates links with prevailing environmental conditions in four SUDS sites in Dunfermline, Scotland over a five year period. The SUDS ponds supported communities of between 10 and 47 invertebrate species. Only one beetle species of conservation significance was recorded, along with an invasive species of mollusc. There were significant temporal changes in species richness and community composition, with the sites losing species and becoming more dissimilar over time. Variation in the invertebrate species composition at the sites was linked to both average environmental conditions and temporal variability, particularly soluble reactive phosphorus and dissolved oxygen levels. The biodiversity value SUDS of invertebrate communities may be limited by pollutant loads being received from drainage, but they can still potentially contribute to freshwater diversity in urban areas. In order to maximize their biodiversity potential, more research needs to be undertaken on appropriate design and management considerations.
Geotextile Incorporated Permeable Pavement System as Potential Source of Irrigation Water: Effects of Re‐Used Water on the Soil, Plant Growth and Development
Authors: Nnadi Ernest O. , Newman Alan P. , Coupe Stephen J.
Published: October 2013

Permeable pavement systems are important part of the sustainable urban drainage system (SUDS). Over a decade ago, it was proposed that the pervious pavement system (PPS) has the capability to store water for reuse, the possibility of using the SUDS device simultaneously in source control and water recycling applications have not been holistically investigated by previous studies. This paper reports experiments where water from geotextile incorporated permeable pavement system models on which 24 mL/m2 of hydrocarbon was applied as a pollutant. A single dose of 17 g of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium slow release nutrients (applied to encourage biodegradation) was administered to the surface. The PPS recycled water was used to irrigate tomato plants (Lycopersicon esculentum (Fantasio hybrid)) and rye grass (Lolium perenne) for ten weeks. The growth, development, and heavy metal content of the organs of these plants were compared to that of plants from untreated rigs and with plants treated with de‐ionized water (DI) as well as the pH, sodium adsorption ratio, and electrical conductivity. The comparative performance of the plants indicated that the water from the treated rigs supported plant growth more than the water from the untreated test rigs and DI. Heavy metal analysis of the plants organs indicated that the metals were at normal levels and below toxicity levels for plants and livestock. Soil structure tests showed that there were no salinity or soil structure issues. Heavy metal analysis of soil also indicated that the metals were within normal range and below toxicity levels. These results further demonstrate the water recycling capability of the PPS and its potential use for irrigation purposes.
Histone modification patterns correlate with patient outcome in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Ya‐Wei , Kao Shou‐Yen , Wang Hsiao‐Jung , Yang Muh‐Hwa
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Patterns of global histone modifications have been suggested to be predictors of clinical outcome in many cancers. However, the role of global histone modification patterns in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is unclear.

METHODS

A retrospective clinicopathologic analysis was undertaken of 186 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma who received complete ablative surgical treatment. Tissue arrays were made from those paraffin‐embedded OSCC samples and examined by immunohistochemistry for histone 3 lysine 4 acetylation (H3K4ac), histone 3 lysine 18 acetylation (H3K18ac), histone 3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3), histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3), and histone 3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3).

RESULTS

A low level of H3K4ac and a high level of H3K27me3 were associated with advanced T status, N status, tumor stage, and perineural invasion. They were also correlated with cancer‐specific survival (CSS) and disease‐free survival (DFS). The 5‐year CSS and DFS in H3K4aclow vs. H3K4achigh were 74.8% versus 92.5% (P = .010), and 51.4% versus 76.2% (P = .001), respectively. The 5‐year CSS and DFS in H3K27me3low versus H3K27me3high were 94.7% versus 62.3% (P < .001) and 76.4% versus 32.3% (P < .001), respectively. We also found improved prediction for DFS after combining the H3K4aclow and H3K27me3high profiles and comparing the scores with the other modification patterns (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This research demonstrates the potential prognostic utility of global histone modification analysis for OSCC. Cancer 2013;119:4259–4267. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Predicting life expectancy in patients with metastatic cancer receiving palliative radiotherapy: The TEACHH model
Authors: Krishnan Monica S. , Epstein‐Peterson Zachary , Chen Yu‐Hui , Tseng Yolanda D. , Wright Alexi A. , Temel Jennifer S. , Catalano Paul , Balboni Tracy A.
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Predicting life expectancy (LE) in patients with metastatic cancer who are receiving palliative therapies is a difficult task. The purpose of the current study was to develop a LE prediction model among patients receiving palliative radiotherapy (RT) that identifies those patients with short (< 3 months) and long (> 1 year) LEs.

METHODS

The records of 862 patients with metastatic cancer receiving palliative RT at the Dana‐Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center between June 2008 and July 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate established and potential clinical predictors of LE to construct a model predicting LE of < 3 months and > 1 year.

RESULTS

The median survival was 5.6 months. On multivariate analysis, factors found to be significantly associated with a shorter LE were cancer type (lung and other vs breast and prostate), older age (> 60 years vs ≤ 60 years), liver metastases, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (2‐4 vs 0‐1), hospitalizations within 3 months before palliative RT (0 vs ≥ 1), and prior palliative chemotherapy courses (≥ 2 vs 0‐1). Patients were divided into 3 groups with distinct median survivals: group A (those with 0‐1 risk factors), 19.9 months (95% confidence interval [95% CI, 13.9 months‐31.1months]); group B (those with 2‐4 risk factors), 5.0 months (95% CI, 4.3 months ‐5.6 months); and group C (those with 5‐6 risk factors), 1.7 months (95% CI, 1.2 months‐2.1 months).

CONCLUSIONS

The TEACHH model (type of cancer, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, age, prior palliative chemotherapy, prior hospitalizations, and hepatic metastases) divides patients receiving palliative RT into 3 distinct LE groups at clinically informative extremes of the LE spectrum. It holds promise to assist radiation oncologists in tailoring palliative therapies to a patient's LE. Cancer 2014;120:134–141. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
A systematic comparison between 1‐D and 3‐D hemodynamics in compliant arterial models
Authors: Xiao Nan , Alastruey Jordi , Alberto Figueroa C.
Published: October 2013

We present a systematic comparison of computational hemodynamics in arteries between a one‐dimensional (1‐D) and a three‐dimensional (3‐D) formulation with deformable vessel walls. The simulations were performed using a series of idealized compliant arterial models representing the common carotid artery, thoracic aorta, aortic bifurcation, and full aorta from the arch to the iliac bifurcation. The formulations share identical inflow and outflow boundary conditions and have compatible material laws. We also present an iterative algorithm to select the parameters for the outflow boundary conditions by using the 1‐D theory to achieve a desired systolic and diastolic pressure at a particular vessel. This 1‐D/3‐D framework can be used to efficiently determine material and boundary condition parameters for 3‐D subject‐specific arterial models with deformable vessel walls. Finally, we explore the impact of different anatomical features and hemodynamic conditions on the numerical predictions. The results show good agreement between the two formulations, especially during the diastolic phase of the cycle. © 2013 The Authors. International Journal for Numerical Methods in Biomedical Engineering published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A food effect study and dose proportionality study to assess the pharmacokinetics and safety of bardoxolone methyl in healthy volunteers
Authors: Teuscher Nathan S. , Kelley Richard J. , Dumas Emily O. , Klein Cheri Enders , Awni Walid M. , Meyer Colin J.
Published: October 2013

This study investigated the effect of food on the plasma pharmacokinetics of bardoxolone methyl, an antioxidant inflammation modulator, at a 20 mg dose, and the dose proportionality of bardoxolone methyl pharmacokinetics from 20 to 80 mg. It was a single‐dose study conducted at a single center in 32 healthy volunteers aged 18–45 years using an amorphous spray‐dried dispersion formulation of bardoxolone methyl. In Part A, 16 subjects received single 20 mg doses of bardoxolone methyl under fasting and non‐fasting conditions. In Part B, 16 subjects received a single 60 or 80 mg dose of bardoxolone methyl and a matching placebo dose under fasting conditions. Blood samples for pharmacokinetic analysis were taken over 120 hours following dose administration. Single dose administration of 20, 60, and 80 mg bardoxolone methyl was safe and well‐tolerated in healthy volunteers. Total bardoxolone methyl exposure was unchanged in the presence of food. However, doses of bardoxolone methyl above 20 mg appear to have a saturated dissolution or absorption process and are associated with less than proportional increases in drug exposure.
Pharmacokinetics of eicosapentaenoic acid in plasma and red blood cells after multiple oral dosing with icosapent ethyl in healthy subjects
Authors: Braeckman Rene A. , Stirtan William G. , Soni Paresh N.
Published: October 2013

Objective

Icosapent ethyl (IPE) is a prescription form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) ethyl ester. This randomized, open‐label study characterized EPA pharmacokinetics.

Methods

Four healthy subject groups received IPE for 28 days: three received 2 g/day (1 × 1,000 mg BID, 2 × 1,000 mg QD, or 2 × 500 mg BID); one received 4 g/day (2 × 1,000 mg BID) administered with meals. Blood sampling was before the morning dose on days 1, 14, 26, 28, and at specified intervals during an 18‐day pharmacokinetic period. EPA was measured in plasma (total and unesterified) and red blood cells (RBCs) by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Mean plasma total EPA increased from 19 µg/mL to a peak (Cmax) of 366 µg/mL at 5 hours postdosing 4 g/day IPE on Day 28. Mean RBC EPA Cmax after 4 g/day was 89 µg/mL (baseline, 12 µg/mL). Mean steady state (SD) for half‐life, clearance, and volume of distribution of total EPA were 79 (47) hours, 757 (283) mL/h, and 82 (56) L, respectively. Steady state for total and unesterified plasma EPA was reached by Day 28, whereas RBC levels were still increasing.

Conclusions

EPA pharmacokinetic profile demonstrated a slowly cleared, extensively distributed molecule with dose linearity and comparable exposures with BID and QD regimens.
Stakeholder Engagement, Corporate Social Responsibility and Integrated Reporting: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Sierra‐García Laura , Zorio‐Grima Ana , García‐Benau María A.
Published: October 2013

There is increasing interest in integrated reporting that includes the company's financial, governance, environmental, and social performance. For this reason, the main objective of this investigation is to study why companies are producing integrated reporting, paying special attention to the links with the assurance of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) report. Based on 7144 worldwide observations, this study identifies the determinants of integrated reporting through a logistic regression model. Our results point out that the likelihood of disclosing an integrated report is positively associated with having the CSR report assured, year, size and supplement industry. Next, we tested if companies that assure their CSR report are also affected by those determining variables. This research is pioneering in analysing the determinants of integrated reporting and as far as we know no existing research has examined the links between integrated reporting and the assurance of CSR reports. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment