bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From personal fear to mass panic: The neurological basis of crowd perception
Authors: Huis in ‘t Veld Elisabeth M. J. , de Gelder Beatrice
Published: February 2015

Recent studies have investigated the neural correlates of how we perceive emotions of individuals or a group of individuals using images of individual bodily expressions. However, it is still largely unknown how we perceive the emotion of a dynamic crowd. This fMRI study used realistic videos of a large group of people expressing fearful, happy or neutral emotions. Furthermore, the emotions were expressed by either unrelated individuals in the group or by an interacting group. It was hypothesized that the dynamics between the people in a crowd is a more salient signal than merely the emotion of the crowd. Second, it was expected that the group interaction is of special importance in a fearful or “panic” situation, as opposed to a happy or neutral situation. Using a fast‐event related design, it was revealed that observing interactive individuals, more so than independently expressive individuals, activated networks related to the perception, execution and integration of action and emotion. Most importantly, the interactive or panicked crowds, as opposed to the individually fearful crowds, triggered more anticipatory and action preparation activity, whereas the brain was less sensitive to the dynamics of individuals in a happy or neutral crowd. This is the first study to assess the effect of the dynamics between people and the collectively displayed emotion as an important aspect of emotional crowd perception. Hum Brain Mapp 36:2338–2351, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multicenter mapping of structural network alterations in autism
Authors: Valk Sofie L. , Di Martino Adriana , Milham Michael P. , Bernhardt Boris C.
Published: February 2015

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of neurodevelopmental conditions primarily characterized by abnormalities in social cognition. Abundant previous functional MRI studies have shown atypical activity in networks encompassing medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and medial parietal regions corresponding to posterior cingulate cortex and precuneus (PCC/PCU). Conversely, studies assessing structural brain anomalies in ASD have been rather inconsistent. The current work evaluated whether structural changes in ASD can be reliability detected in a large multicenter dataset. Our comprehensive structural MRI framework encompassed cortical thickness mapping and structural covariance analysis based on three independent samples comprising individuals with ASD and controls (n = 220), selected from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange open‐access database. Surface‐based analysis revealed increased cortical thickness in ASD relative to controls in mPFC and lateral prefrontal cortex. Clusters encompassing mPFC were embedded in altered inter‐regional covariance networks, showing decreased covariance in ASD relative to controls primarily to PCC/PCU and inferior parietal regions. Cortical thickness increases and covariance reductions in ASD were consistent, yet of variable effect size, across the different sites evaluated and measurable both in children and adults. Our multisite study shows regional and network‐level structural alterations in mPFC in ASD that, possibly, relate to atypical socio‐cognitive functions in this condition. Hum Brain Mapp 36:2364–2373, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Making Good Things Last Longer: The Role of Savoring on the Relationship Between HRM and Positive Employee Outcomes
Authors: Castanheira Filipa , Story Joana
Published: February 2015

This work studies sales managers’ perceptions of performance‐oriented HR practices, and the mediating and moderating processes through which these practices are linked with affective commitment. Specifically, we tested whether work engagement mediated the relationship between perceptions of performance‐oriented HR practices and affective commitment using a sample of 117 sales managers from one large retail store. Furthermore, we tested whether managers’ savoring strategies would moderate the positive relationship between perceptions of performance‐oriented HR practices and work engagement, and if the strength of the hypothesized indirect effects were conditional on the use of savoring strategies. Results showed that the relationship between perceptions of performance‐oriented HR practices and affective commitment was mediated by work engagement. In addition, savoring strategies were found to moderate the relationship between perceptions of performance‐oriented HR practices and work engagement, so that the highest levels of work engagement were found in individuals who reported high perceptions of performance‐oriented HR practices and high use of savoring strategies. Finally, results support a conditional indirect effect of performance‐oriented HR practices on predicting affective commitment via work engagement when levels of savoring strategies were moderate to high, but not when their use was low. Altogether, these results demonstrated that work engagement and savoring strategies represent key elements in explaining how perceptions of performance‐oriented HR practices are associated with affective commitment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Affordances of Blogs and Digital Video
Authors: Ranker Jason
Published: February 2015

In this article, the author presents examples of two ninth‐grade students’ literacy processes as they used blogs and digital video (amongst other media) to inquire into the subject matter of fast food. The author discusses the students’ uses of these focal media through the concept of affordances, a concept that refers to the distinct possibilities and limitations of a particular mode or medium. Blogs afforded a means of responsive, written social interaction with other students about their learning, and the possibility of composing texts with embedded links to other webpages that had been explored on the topic. Digital video afforded distinctly visual means of representing their subject matter and the presentation of complex ideas through visual montage and juxtaposition of text and image. Teachers can use knowledge about these media affordances as they consider how these two media might be useful in their own classrooms and inquiry projects.
Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of melatonin entrapped PLA nanoparticles: An oxidative stress and T‐cell response using golden hamster
Authors: Pandey Sanjeev K. , Haldar Chandana , Vishwas Dipanshu K. , Maiti Pralay
Published: February 2015

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of melatonin entrapped PLA nanoparticles (Mel‐NPs) and pure Mel on impact of reactive oxygen species (ROS), blastogenic responses (%SR) in terms of proliferation of splenocytes. ROS have been proposed to play an important role in balancing the pro‐ and antioxidant homeostasis during different physiological condition of organism. Melatonin has been suggested as an effective free radical scavenger that may have an important role during this process. Mel‐NPs were prepared by using emulsification (o/w) nanoprecipitation method and their physicochemical characterizations were studied for evaluation of particle size and encapsulation efficiency by using SEM, TEM, particle size analyzer, DSC and FTIR. The TEM micrograph showed excellent findings regarding size, shape, encapsulation efficiency and difference between pure PLA nanoparticles and Mel‐NPs. The SEM micrographs of Mel‐NPs showed spherical shape, smooth surfaces and the homogeneous particle size distribution. In TEM micrograph, the average diameter of Mel‐NPs was found to be 36 ± 8 nm with ∼78% (w/w) of entrapment efficiency. The size of pure PLA nanoparticles was found to be larger as compared to Mel‐NPs which confirm that the drug supports the reduction of the size of Mel‐NPs. In in vitro study, we observed that Mel‐NPs significantly reduce the level of ROS in splenocytes and increased the level %SR at 96 h of splenocytes culture as compared to the culture with pure Mel. Thus our results propose high clinical value for improvement of depressed immunity by Mel‐NPs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 3034–3044, 2015.
Electrospinning, mechanical properties, and cell behavior study of chitosan/PVAnanofibers
Authors: Koosha Mojtaba , Mirzadeh Hamid
Published: February 2015

Electrospinning process has been widely used to produce nanofibers from polymer blends. Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and chitosan (CS) have numerous biomedical applications such as wound healing and tissue engineering. Nanofibers of CS/PVA have been prepared by many works, however, a complete physicochemical and mechanical characterization as well as cell behavior has not been reported. In this study, PVA and CS/PVA blend solutions in acetic acid 70% with different volume ratios (30/70, 50/50, and 70/30) were electrospun in constant electrospinning process parameters. The structure and morphology of nanofibrous mats were characterized by SEM, FTIR, and XRD methods. The best nanofibrous mat was achieved from the CS/PVA 30/70 blend solution regarding the electrospinning throughput. The dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) of PVA and CS/PVA 30/70 nanofibrous mats were measured which were not considered in the previous studies. DMTA results in accordance to the DSC analysis approved the partial compatibility between the two polymers, while a single glass transition temperature was not observed for the blend. The tensile strength of PVA and CS/PVA nanofibers were also reported. Results of cell behavior study indicated that the heat stabilized nanofibrous mat CS/PVA 30/70 was able to support the attachment and proliferation of the fibroblast cells. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 3081–3093, 2015.
Investigation of the cytotoxicity of aluminum oxide nanoparticles and nanowires and their localization in L929 fibroblasts and RAW264 macrophages
Authors: Hashimoto Masanori , Sasaki Jun‐Ichi , Imazato Satoshi
Published: February 2015

The biological responses of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles (NPs) and nanowires (NWs) in cultured fibroblasts (L929) and macrophages (RAW264) were evaluated from their cytotoxicities and micromorphologic properties. Cultured cells were exposed to Al2O3NPs (13 nm diameter) and Al2O3NWs (2–6 × 200–400 nm). Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were examined by immunostaining with fluorescence microscopy, and nanomaterial localization was studied by using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The NPs were cytotoxic and genotoxic, whereas the NWs were not. The scanning electron microscopy images showed that the NPs aggregate more on the cell surface than do the NWs. The transmission electron microscopy images showed that the NPs were internalized into the vesicle and nuclei, for both cell types. In contrast, numerous solid NWs were observed as large aggregates in vesicles, but not in nuclei. Nuclear damage was confirmed by measuring cell viability and by immunostaining for NPs. The chemical changes induced by the NPs in the vesicles or cells may cause cell damage because of their large surface area per volume. The extent of NW entrapment was not sufficient to lower the viability of either cell type. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 241–252, 2016.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of strontium‐containing nanostructured carbonated hydroxyapatite/sodium alginate for sinus lift in rabbits
Authors: Valiense Helder , Barreto Mauricio , Resende Rodrigo F. , Alves Adriana T. , Rossi Alexandre M. , Mavropoulos Elena , Granjeiro José M. , Calasans‐Maia Mônica D.
Published: February 2015

Various synthetic bone substitutes have been developed to reconstruct bone defects. One of the most prevalent ceramics in bone treatment is hydroxyapatite (HA) that is a useful material as bone substitute, however, with a low rate of biodegradation. Its structure allows isomorphic cationic and anionic substitutions to be easily introduced, which can alter the crystallinity, morphology, biocompatibility, and osteoconductivity. The objective of this study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo biological responses to strontium‐containing nanostructured carbonated HA/sodium alginate (SrCHA) spheres (425<ϕ <600 μm) that were used for sinus lifts in rabbits using nanostructured carbonated HA/sodium alginate (CHA) as a reference. Cytocompatibility was determined using a multiparametric assay after exposing murine preosteoblasts to the extracts of these materials. Twelve male and female rabbits underwent bilateral sinus lift procedures and were divided into two groups (CHA or SrCHA) and in two experimental periods (4 and 12 weeks), for microscopic and histomorphometric analyses. The in vitro test revealed the overall viability of the cells exposed to the CHA and SrCHA extracts; thus, these extracts were considered cytocompatible, which was confirmed by three different parameters in the in vitro tests. The histological analysis showed chronic inflammation with a prevalence of macrophages around the CHA spheres after 4 weeks, and this inflammation decreased after 12 weeks. Bone formation was observed in both groups, and smaller quantities of SrCHA spheres were observed after 12 weeks, indicating greater bioresorption of SrCHA than CHA. SrCHA spheres are biocompatible and osteoconductive and undergo bioresorption earlier than CHA spheres. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 274–282, 2016.
Different effects of sodium chloride preincubation on cadmium tolerance of Pichia kudriavzevii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Ma Ning , Li Chunsheng , Dong Xiaoyan , Wang Dongfeng , Xu Ying
Published: February 2015

Application of growing microorganisms for cadmium removal is restricted by high cadmium toxicity. The effects of sodium chloride (NaCl) preincubation on the cadmium tolerance and removal ability of Pichia kudriavzevii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were investigated in this study. NaCl preincubation improved the biomass of P. kudriavzevii under cadmium stress, while no obvious effect was observed in S. cerevisiae. The improved activities of peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) after NaCl preincubation might be an important reason for the decrease of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, cell death, and oxidative damage of proteins and lipids induced by cadmium, contributing to the improvement of the yeast growth. The cadmium bioaccumulation capacity of P. kudriavzevii decreased significantly after NaCl preincubation, which played an important role in mitigating the cadmium toxicity to the yeast. The cadmium removal rate of P. kudriavzevii was obviously higher than S. cerevisiae and was significantly enhanced after NaCl preincubation. The results suggested that NaCl preincubation improved the cadmium tolerance and removal ability of P. kudriavzevii.
Identification and characterization of enolase as a collagen‐binding protein in Lactobacillus plantarum
Authors: Salzillo Marzia , Vastano Valeria , Capri Ugo , Muscariello Lidia , Sacco Margherita , Marasco Rosangela
Published: February 2015

Collagen is a target of pathogens for adhesion, colonization, and invasion of host tissue. Probiotic bacteria can mimic the same mechanism as used by the pathogens in the colonization process, expressing cell surface proteins that specifically interact with extracellular matrix component proteins. The capability to bind collagen is expressed by several Lactobacillus isolates, including some Lactobacillus plantarum strains. In this study we report the involvement of the L. plantarum EnoA1 alfa‐enolase in type I collagen (CnI) binding. By adhesion assays, we show that the mutant strain LM3‐CC1, carrying a null mutation in the enoA1 gene, binds to immobilized collagen less efficiently than wild type strain. CnI overlay assay and Elisa tests, performed on the purified EnoA1, show that this protein can bind collagen both under denaturing and native conditions. By using truncated recombinant enolase proteins, we also show that the region spanning from 73rd to the 140th amino acid residues is involved in CnI binding.
Comparison of temperature lapse rates from the northern to the southern slopes of the Himalayas
Authors: Kattel Dambaru Ballab , Yao Tandong , Yang Wei , Gao Yang , Tian Lide
Published: February 2015

Based on 20‐year (1985–2004) records of surface‐air‐temperature at 16 stations between the elevations of 3553 m and 4801 m a.s.l. in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau (or the northern slopes of the eastern Himalayas), this paper examines the monthly, seasonal and annual characteristics of near‐surface temperature lapse rates (TLRs). A linear regression model was fitted for the lapse rate calculation. The annual cycle of the TLR shows a distinct seasonal pattern, i.e. steepest in winter and shallowest in summer. Results are partially consistent with those from the southern slopes of the central Himalayas, in particular in summer, and correspond to the warm, rainy and humid season. In response to the monsoonal effect, the released latent heat of water vapour condensation causes an increase in air temperature at higher elevations. Therefore, the TLR is shallowest in the summer. The considerable amount of solar radiation at higher elevations also causes a reduction of the TLR in this season. The lowest diurnal range of lapse rates for summer is associated with lower diurnal variability in net radiation due to cloud cover and relative humidity. The steepest TLR occurs in winter in association with intense cooling at higher elevations, corresponding to the continental dry and cold air surges, and considerable snow‐temperature feedback. Lower insolation, deeper snow cover and a weaker inversion effect cause a lower diurnal range of TLR in this season. The observed contrast of winter TLR from the northern to southern slopes of the Himalayas is due to differences in elevation and topography, as well as the pronounced effect of cold air surges.
Modulating tibiofemoral contact force in the sheep hind limb via treadmill walking: Predictions from an opensim musculoskeletal model
Authors: Lerner Zachary F. , Gadomski Benjamin C. , Ipson Allison K. , Haussler Kevin K. , Puttlitz Christian M. , Browning Raymond C.
Published: February 2015

Sheep are a predominant animal model used to study a variety of orthopedic conditions. Understanding and controlling the in‐vivo loading environment in the sheep hind limb is often necessary for investigations relating to bone and joint mechanics. The purpose of this study was to develop a musculoskeletal model of an adult sheep hind limb and investigate the effects of treadmill walking speed on muscle and joint contact forces. We constructed the skeletal geometry of the model from computed topography images. Dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry was utilized to establish the inertial properties of each model segment. Detailed dissection and tendon excursion experiments established the requisite muscle lines of actions. We used OpenSim and experimentally‐collected marker trajectories and ground reaction forces to quantify muscle and joint contact forces during treadmill walking at 0.25 m• s−1 and 0.75 m• s−1. Peak compressive and anterior–posterior tibiofemoral contact forces were 20% (0.38 BW, p = 0.008) and 37% (0.17 BW, p = 0.040) larger, respectively, at the moderate gait speed relative to the slower speed. Medial–lateral tibiofemoral contact forces were not significantly different. Adjusting treadmill speed appears to be a viable method to modulate compressive and anterior–posterior tibiofemoral contact forces in the sheep hind limb. The musculoskeletal model is freely‐available at www.SimTK.org. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1128–1133, 2015.
Metabolomic changes in grains of well‐watered and drought‐stressed transgenic rice
Authors: Nam Kyong‐Hee , Shin Hee Jae , Pack In‐Soon , Park Jung‐Ho , Kim Ho Bang , Kim Chang‐Gi
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Drought induces a number of physiological and biochemical responses in cereals. This study was designed to examine the metabolite changes in grains of drought‐tolerant transgenic rice (Oryza sativa L.) that overexpresses AtCYP78A7 encoding cytochrome P450 protein using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Principal component analysis showed that the 1H‐NMR‐based profile was clearly separated by soil water status of well‐watered and water‐deficit. A discrimination of metabolites between transgenic and non‐transgenic grains appeared under both watering regimes. Variations in the levels of amino acids and sugars led to the discrimination of metabolites among genotypes. In particular, drought significantly enhanced the levels of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA, 244.6%), fructose (155.7%), glucose (211.0%), glycerol (57.2%), glycine (65.8%) and aminoethanol (192.4%) in the transgenic grains compared with the non‐transgenic control grains.

CONCLUSION

These changes in amounts of metabolites may assist in improving drought tolerance in transgenic rice by playing crucial roles in stress‐responsive pathways including GABA biosynthesis, sucrose metabolism and antioxidant defenses. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative study on acid‐soluble and pepsin‐soluble collagens from skin and swim bladder of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)
Authors: Wu Xiaosa , Cai Luyun , Cao Ailing , Wang Yanbo , Li Tingting , Li Jianrong
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Collagen has a wide range of applications in food, biomedical and pharmaceutical products.

RESULTS

The collagens in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) skin and swim bladder were extracted using acetic acid and pepsin. Higher yield of pepsin‐soluble collagen (PSC) was obtained from skin (178 g kg−1) than from swim bladder (114 g kg−1). Not surprisingly, yields of PSC from skin and swim bladder were also higher than those of acid‐soluble collagen (ASC) from the same organs (89 and 51 g kg−1). Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) profiles showed that ASC and PSC were type I collagens, with PSC containing a higher proportion of α components than ASC. Fourier transform infrared spectra revealed that ASC and PSC were very similar in their protein secondary structures. Scanning electron micrographs showed that the collagens had a spongy structure, with more pores being obtained in swim bladder than in skin collagens. The collagens showed high solubility in the acidic pH range. However, their solubility decreased in the presence of NaCl at concentrations above 20 g kg−1.

CONCLUSION

Collagens were successfully extracted from the skin and swim bladder of grass carp. These fish by‐products could serve as an alternative source of collagens for a wide variety of applications in the food and nutraceutical industries. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Frictional behaviour of imidazolium sulfate ionic liquid additives under mixed slide to roll conditions: part 2 — influence of concentration and chemical composition of ionic liquid additive
Authors: Pejaković V. , Igartua A. , Kalin M.
Published: February 2015

Current work presents the investigation of frictional behaviour of ionic liquid lubricant mixtures under mixed slide to roll ratio. On the contrary to the previous study, which focuses on determination of the most suitable ionic liquid additive for identical ionic liquid weight concentration in lubricant mixture, this work had two scopes. The first one was to determine the optimal chemical composition of ionic liquid additive by investigating the lubricant mixtures with identical molar ratio, and the second one, to optimise additive concentration for certain ionic liquid structure.

The changes were observed by two means. Namely, in frictional behaviour, ionic liquid concentration plays significant role. On the contrary, for the mixtures with identical molar concentration, the chemical structures with longer alkyl substituent do not always exhibit improvement. Experiments also revealed correlation between ionic liquid structures, concentration and wear. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis of worn surfaces confirmed the above statements. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comonomer‐Induced Stereo‐Selectivity Enhancement in a C2‐Symmetric Metallocene‐Catalyzed Propylene Polymerization
Authors: Ma Lin , Dong Jin‐Yong
Published: February 2015

Propylene polymerization is carried out with a C
2‐symmetric metallocene catalyst of rac‐Et(Ind)2ZrCl2/MAO at 40 °C in the presence of a cyclo‐triene of trans,trans,cis‐1,5,9‐cyclododecatriene ((E,E,Z)‐CDT). Comonomer incorporations are rather low (<0.10 mol%). However, it is shown for the first time that the comonomer causes a noticeable increase in poly­propylene ­isotacticity (>7% in [mmmm]). (E,E,Z)‐CDT is speculated to coordinate to the metal center forming comonomer‐complexed active sites in charge of the entire polymerization reaction with decreased activity however increased propylene ­enantiomorphic selectivity.

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Finite volume method for the variational inequalities of first and second kinds
Authors: Zhang Tie , Tang Lixin
Published: February 2015

We propose and analyze the finite volume method for solving the variational inequalities of first and second kinds. The stability and convergence analysis are given for this method. For the elliptic obstacle problem, we derive the optimal error estimate in the H1‐norm. For the simplified friction problem, we establish an abstract H1‐error estimate, which implies the convergence if the exact solution u∈H1(Ω) and the optimal error estimate if u∈H1 + α(Ω),0 < α≤2. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Positive almost periodic solutions for a single population model with hereditary effect and mixed delays
Authors: Zhou Qiyuan , Shao Jianying
Published: February 2015

In this paper, by using differential inequality technique, some sufficient conditions are obtained for checking the existence and global exponential stability of positive almost periodic solutions of a single population model with hereditary effect and mixed delays. Moreover, an example and its numerical simulation are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method and results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exact controllability of the heat equation with bilinear control
Authors: Ouzahra M. , Tsouli A. , Boutoulout A.
Published: February 2015

This paper deals with exact controllability of bilinear heat equation. Namely, given the initial state, we would like to provide a class of target states that can be achieved through the heat equation at a finite time by applying multiplicative controls. For this end, an explicit control strategy is constructed. Simulations are provided. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Redox and anti‐oxidant state within cattle oocytes following in vitro maturation with bone morphogenetic protein 15 and follicle stimulating hormone
Authors: Sutton‐McDowall Melanie L. , Purdey Malcolm , Brown Hannah M. , Abell Andrew D. , Mottershead David G. , Cetica Pablo D. , Dalvit Gabriel C. , Goldys Ewa M. , Gilchrist Robert B. , Gardner David K. , Thompson Jeremy G.
Published: February 2015

The developmental competence of cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) can be increased during in vitro oocyte maturation with the addition of exogenous oocyte‐secreted factors, such as bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), in combination with hormones. FSH and BMP15, for example, induce different metabolic profiles within COCs—namely, FSH increases glycolysis while BMP15 stimulates FAD and NAD(P)H accumulation within oocytes, without changing the redox ratio. The aim of this study was to investigate if this BMP15‐induced NAD(P)H increase was due to de novo NADPH production. Cattle COCs were cultured with FSH and/or recombinant human BMP15, resulting in a significant decrease in glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase activity (P < 0.05). Inhibition of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) during this process decreased NAD(P)H intensity threefold in BMP15‐treated oocytes, suggesting that BMP15 stimulates IDH and NADPH production via the tricarboxylic acid cycle. As NADPH is a reducing agent, reduced glutathione (GSH), H2O2, and mitochondrial activity were also measured to assess the general redox status of the oocyte. FSH alone decreased GSH levels whereas the combination of BMP15 and FSH sustained higher levels. Expression of genes encoding glutathione‐reducing enzymes were also lower in oocytes cultured in the presence of FSH alone. BMP15 supplementation further promoted mitochondrial localization patterns that are consistent with enhanced developmental competence. Metabolomics revealed significant consumption of glutamine and production of alanine by COCs matured with both FSH and BMP15 compared to the control (P < 0.05). Hence, BMP15 supplementation differentially modulates reductive metabolism and mitochondrial localization within the oocyte. In comparison, FSH‐stimulation alone decreases the oocytes’ ability to regulate cellular stress, and therefore utilizes other mechanisms to improve developmental competence. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 281–294, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On a new family of high‐order iterative methods for the matrix pth root
Authors: Amat S. , Ezquerro J. A. , Hernández‐Verón M. A.
Published: February 2015

The main goal of this paper is to approximate the principal pth root of a matrix by using a family of high‐order iterative methods. We analyse the semi‐local convergence and the speed of convergence of these methods. Concerning stability, it is well known that even the simplified Newton method is unstable. Despite it, we present stable versions of our family of algorithms. We test numerically the methods: we check the numerical robustness and stability by considering matrices that are close to be singular and badly conditioned. We find algorithms of the family with better numerical behavior than the Newton and the Halley methods. These two algorithms are basically the iterative methods proposed in the literature to solve this problem. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Applying Zooarchaeological Methods to Interpret Mortuary Behaviour and Taphonomy in Commingled Burials: The Case Study of the Late Neolithic Site of Bolores, Portugal
Authors: Mack J. E. , Waterman A. J. , Racila A‐M. , Artz J. A. , Lillios K. T.
Published: February 2015

The rock‐cut tomb of Bolores in the Portuguese Estremadura dates primarily to the Late Neolithic/Copper Age (2800–2600 BC) and, in a series of recent excavations, has yielded thousands of fragmented, commingled human bone specimens. The primary goals of the present study were to determine the minimum number of individuals interred in the tomb and to analyse spatial patterns in fragmentation intensity to identify natural and anthropogenic taphonomic processes. To investigate these research questions, the authors employed a simplified version of an established method in zooarchaeology to the study of human remains. Human bone specimens were recorded by the presence of osteological landmarks rather than the zones used in similar studies. This recording system allowed for calculation of the minimum number of individuals (further refined through dental analysis) and generated the NISPs (Numbers of Identified Specimens), minimum number of elements, fragment counts and landmarks sums essential to the conjoining and fragmentation studies. Fragmentation analysis led to the identification of four possible use areas in the tomb: two for primary inhumations and two for secondary deposits created by cleaning out the burial chambers at Bolores. We found that the application of multiple zooarchaeological methods to the study of commingled human remains has the potential to provide a more fine‐grained understanding of site biography and taphonomy than human osteological methods alone. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiple Cases with Probable Treponemal Infection from 16th to 19th Centuries Romania
Authors: Radu C. , Andreica L. , Constantinescu M. , Soficaru A.
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we describe pathological lesions identified in seven skeletons discovered in the Saint Sava necropolis in Bucharest, Romania, dating to the Late Medieval/Early Modern period. The pathological changes observed in the skeletons were analysed using macroscopic examination. Additionally, computed tomography scanning was performed on two individuals displaying advanced lesions on the cranial surface. For the differential diagnosis, we took into consideration treponemal infection, tuberculosis, osteomyelitis, leprosy, fluorosis, melorheostosis, hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy, Paget's disease and mycotic infection, along with the possibility of multiple afflictions occurring simultaneously. The morphology and distribution of the lesions are suggestive of treponematosis, which, to our knowledge, makes this the first case of this disease on the Romanian territory in archaeological populations. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Paediatric nodal marginal zone B‐cell lymphadenopathy of the neck: a Haemophilus influenzae‐driven immune disorder?
Authors: Kluin Philip M , Langerak Anton W , Beverdam‐Vincent Jannetta , Geurts‐Giele Willemina RR , Visser Lydia , Rutgers Bea , Schuuring Ed , Van Baarlen Joop , Lam King H , Seldenrijk Kees , Kibbelaar Robby E , de Wit Peter , Diepstra Arjan , Rosati Stefano , van Noesel Max M , Zwaan C Michel , Hunting Jarmo CB , Hoogendoorn Mels , van der Gaag Ellen J , van Esser Joost W J , de Bont Eveline , Kluin‐Nelemans Hanneke C , Winter Rik H , Lo ten Foe Jerome R , van der Zanden Adri GM
Published: February 2015

Many hyperplasias and lymphomas of marginal zone B‐cells are associated with infection. We identified six children and one adolescent with cervical lymphadenopathy showing prominent polyclonal nodal marginal zone hyperplasia (pNMZH) and four adolescents with monoclonal paediatric nodal marginal zone lymphoma (pNMZL). The clonality status was assessed using BIOMED‐2‐IG PCR analysis. Haemophilus influenzae was identified in all six cases of pNMZH that could be tested by direct culture (N = 3) or a very sensitive PCR for the H. influenzae gyrase gene in frozen materials (N = 5). H. influenzae was not detected in three pNMZLs and 28 non‐specific reactive cervical lymph nodes of age‐matched controls, except for a single control node that was obtained during oropharyngeal surgery for a cleft palate showing very low copy numbers of H. influenzae. pNMZH patients were younger than pNMZL patients (median age 12 versus 21 years). pNMZH showed a prominent nodular appearance with variable fibrosis without acute inflammation. Within the nodules, the expanded germinal centres and variably sized marginal zones were colonized by activated B‐cells with weak expression of IgD and lack of CD10 and/or BCL6 expression. Some areas showed skewed light chain expression in plasma cells (4/5 cases lambda). In four cases tested, this was confirmed by flow cytometry for surface Ig (3/4 cases lambda). In contrast, pNMZL showed more extensive expansion of marginal zones by centrocytoid cells and often expression of BCL2 protein. Several H. influenzae strains are known to interact with the constant part of IgD on human B‐cells, leading to their polyclonal proliferation and activation. We speculate that in vivo stimulation of IgD+ marginal zone B‐cells by this bacterium may be implicated in this particular lymphadenopathy that should be distinguished from monoclonal pNMZL. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Boron‐doped hydrogenated silicon carbide alloys containing silicon nanocrystallites for highly efficient nanocrystalline silicon thin‐film solar cells
Authors: Lee Ji Eun , Ahn Seung Kyu , Park Joo Hyung , Yoo Jinsu , Yoon Kyung Hoon , Kim Donghwan , Cho Jun‐Sik
Published: February 2015

Boron‐doped hydrogenated silicon carbide alloys containing silicon nanocrystallites (p‐nc‐SiC:H) were prepared using a plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition system with a mixture of CH4, SiH4, B2H6 and H2 gases. The influence of hydrogen dilution on the material properties of the p‐nc‐SiC:H films was investigated, and their roles as window layers in hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon (nc‐Si:H) solar cells were examined. By increasing the RH (H2/SiH4) ratio from 90 to 220, the Si―C bond density in the p‐nc‐SiC:H films increased from 5.20 × 1019 to 7.07 × 1019/cm3, resulting in a significant increase of the bandgap from 2.09 to 2.23 eV in comparison with the bandgap of 1.95 eV for p‐nc‐Si:H films. For the films deposited at a high RH ratio, the Si nanocrystallites with a size of 3–15 nm were formed in the amorphous SiC:H matrix. The Si nanocrystallites played an important role in the enhancement of vertical charge transport in the p‐nc‐SiC:H films, which was verified by conductive atomic force microscopy measurements. When the p‐nc‐SiC:H films deposited at RH = 220 were applied in the nc‐Si:H solar cells, a high conversion efficiency of 8.26% (Voc = 0.53 V, Jsc = 23.98 mA/cm2 and FF = 0.65) was obtained compared to 6.36% (Voc = 0.44 V, Jsc = 21.90 mA/cm2 and FF = 0.66) of the solar cells with reference p‐nc‐Si:H films. Further enhancement in the cell performance was achieved using p‐nc‐SiC:H bilayers consisting of highly doped upper layers and low‐level doped bottom layers, which led to the increased conversion efficiency of 9.03%. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polyoxometalate‐Based Organic–Inorganic Hybrids as Antitumor Drugs
Authors: Fu Lei , Gao Hanqin , Yan Mei , Li Shouzhu , Li Xinyu , Dai Zhifei , Liu Shaoqin
Published: February 2015

Polyoxometalates (POMs) have shown encouraging antitumor activity. However, their cytotoxicity in normal cells and unspecific interactions with biomolecules are two major obstacles that impede the practical applications of POMs in clinical cancer treatment. Derivatization of POMs with more biocompatible organic ligands is expected to cause a synergetic effect and achieve improved bioactivity and biospecificity. Herein, the synthesis of an amphiphilic organic–inorganic hybrid is reported by grafting a long‐chain organoalkoxysilane lipid onto a POM. The amphiphilic POM hybrid could spontaneously assemble into the vesicles and exhibits enhanced antitumor activity for human colorectal cancer cell lines (HT29) compared to that of parent POMs. This detailed study reveals that the amphiphilic nature of POM hybrids enables the as‐formed vesicles to easily bind to the cell membranes and then be uptaken by the cells, thus leading to a substantial increase in antitumor activity. Such prominent antitumor action is mostly accomplished via cell apoptosis, which ultimately results in cell death. Our finding demonstrates that novel POM hybrids‐based drugs with increased bioactivity could be obtained by decorating POMs with selective organic ligands.
A design proto‐pattern for continuously evaluated forecasting in IBM® InfoSphere® Streams
Authors: Oliver Helen , McSharry Patrick
Published: February 2015

Design patterns relieve much of the difficulty of developing software solutions. As sources and volumes of generated data have increased in recent times, stream computing has emerged as a new paradigm for acquiring and harnessing the data's rich potential to provide insight in near real time. One prominent platform for processing streaming data is IBM® InfoSphere® Streams, but design patterns for the platform are relatively scarce. This article proposes a prototypical application design pattern for continuously evaluated forecasting on the IBM InfoSphere Streams platform. Towards demonstrating the prototypical pattern, the application was implemented in three real‐world scenarios: wind power, sentiment analysis, and stock market data. The purpose of this article is to specify the design proto‐pattern and describe its variants in each different implementation. We believe that the proto‐pattern will be applicable in IBM InfoSphere Streams to any data stream where forecasts over multiple forecast horizons are required. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association of fetal biparietal diameter with mode of delivery and perinatal outcome
Authors: Bardin R. , Aviram A. , Meizner I. , Ashwal E. , Hiersch L. , Yogev Y. , Hadar E.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To determine the association between sonographic assessment of fetal biparietal diameter (BPD) and pregnancy outcome.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of pregnancies at 37–42 weeks of gestation which had antepartum sonographic measurement of BPD within 7 days before delivery. Eligibility was limited to singleton pregnancies with neither known structural or chromosomal abnormalities nor prelabor Cesarean delivery (CD). The association of BPD with outcome was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression, receiver–operating characteristics curves and stratification according to BPD quartiles.

Results

In total, 3229 women were eligible for analysis, of whom 2483 (76.9%) had a spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD), 418 (12.9%) underwent operative vaginal delivery (OVD) and 328 (10.2%) underwent CD. The mean BPD in the obstetric intervention groups (OVD and CD) was significantly higher than that in the SVD group (P < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, increased BPD was an independent risk factor such that higher values of BPD were associated with progressively higher risk of obstetric intervention (adjusted odds ratio, 1.05 for each 1‐mm increase in BPD (95% CI, 1.02–1.09)), but no clear cut‐off value for obstetric intervention was found. The fourth quartile group (BPD ≥ 97 mm) was associated with a significantly lower SVD rate (P < 0.001) and higher OVD rate (P = 0.04), relative to the first (BPD 88–90 mm) and second (BPD 91–93 mm) quartile groups, with no apparent adverse impact on immediate neonatal outcome.

Conclusions

Increased BPD within the week prior to delivery is an independent risk factor such that higher values of BPD are associated with progressively higher risk of obstetric intervention; however, in our experience, no adverse neonatal outcome resulted from such intervention. Thus, increased BPD should not discourage a trial of vaginal delivery. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Grain Breakup During Elevated Temperature Deformation of an HCP Metal
Authors: Honniball Peter D. , Preuss Michael , Rugg David , Quinta da Fonseca João
Published: February 2015

A combination of mechanical testing, EBSD and crystal plasticity finite element modeling were used to investigate the influence of temperature on the fragmentation of grains in a zirconium alloy. The results demonstrate that grains of Zircaloy-4 fragment more as the temperature rises. This trend can be explained by an increasing difference between the CRSS values for 〈c+a〉 slip and 〈a〉 slip as temperature rises. This change in relative slip activities with temperature is supported by experimental observations of macroscopic anisotropy and in-grain misorientation axes calculated from EBSD data, as well as plasticity modeling. By tracking the microstructural evolution during deformation, it is shown that the two major texture components fragment to different degrees under the action of prismatic slip. Grains in the$$ \left\langle {11\overline{2} 0} \right\rangle $$112¯0fiber are significantly more stable than those in the$$ \left\langle {10\overline{1} 0} \right\rangle $$101¯0fiber, which break up. Grains of the latter fiber fragment heterogeneously as portions of the grain rotate in opposite directions, and some do not rotate at all.
In vitro fertilization embryo development from caffeine‐treated murine sperm
Authors: Yokota Yoshimasa , Yokota Hidemi , Yokota Mikako , Araki Yasuyuki , Araki Yasuhisa
Published: February 2015

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of long‐term caffeine administration on murine sperm and subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Methods

Male mice were injected with various doses (0, 0.2 and 1.0 mg/mouse/day) of caffeine for 1 month. After sperm collection, the IVF rate and embryo development to the blastocyst stage were evaluated.

Results

The mean body weight significantly decreased in the 1.0 mg/day treatment group compared to the control group (P < 0.01). Testicular weight and histological features did not differ, and total blood testosterone was no different in spite of the difference between 0.2 and 1.0 mg/day of caffeine. The IVF rate differed significantly between the control group [100/105 (95.2 %)] and 0.2 mg/day group [106/121 (87.6 %)] (P < 0.05). Furthermore, blastocyst formation was significantly and dose‐dependently lower with higher caffeine levels: control group: 85/100 (85.0 %); 0.2 mg/day group: 84/106 (79.2 %) (P < 0.05); 1.0 mg/day group: 64/102 (62.7 %) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Caffeine treatment affected body weight of male mice. However, testicular weight, histological features and total blood testosterone concentration were not statistically different. In addition, following IVF using sperm from these mice, blastocyst formation decreased in a dose‐dependent manner. These findings suggest that embryo development from oocytes fertilized with sperm from caffeine‐administered male mice is negatively affected.
Measures of circadian preference in childhood and adolescence: A review
Authors: Tonetti L. , Adan A. , Di Milia L. , Randler C. , Natale V.
Published: February 2015

Purpose

To review the psychometric properties of the questionnaires commonly filled in by children and adolescents to measure circadian preference.

Methods

We examined the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents (MEQ-CA), the Morningness-Eveningness Scale for Children (MESC) and the Composite Scale of Morningness (CSM). We critically analyzed the reliability, in term of internal consistency (through the Cronbach's alpha) and test-retest reliability (through the correlation coefficient), and the type of validation against external criteria (objective assessment of the sleep/wake cycle, body temperature, hormones and other questionnaires). Fifty studies that reported these data were included in the review: 7 studies used the MEQ-CA, 28 used the MESC and 15 used the CSM.

Results

The percentage of studies reporting at least acceptable levels of internal consistency was high and similar between the three questionnaires. Evidence for test-retest reliability was scant, since only 3 studies were available; it was at least acceptable for the MESC (two studies with a time interval of 1 month), not acceptable for the MEQ-CA (one study with a time interval of 6 months), while no information was available for the CSM. As regards the validation evidence, the MEQ-CA has been validated by the highest number of external criteria (actigraphy, oral body temperature and other questionnaires), followed by the CSM (cortisol sampling and other questionnaires). The MESC has been validated only against self-report measures.

Conclusions

The present state of the art would suggest the use of the MEQ-CA to assess circadian preference in children and adolescents.
The histone deacetylase Rpd3/Sin3/Ume6 complex represses an acetate‐inducible isoform of VTH2 in fermenting budding yeast cells
Authors: Stuparevic Igor , Becker Emmanuelle , Law Michael J. , Primig Michael
Published: February 2015

The tripartite Rpd3/Sin3/Ume6 complex represses meiotic isoforms during mitosis. We asked if it also controls starvation‐induced isoforms. We report that VTH1/VTH2 encode acetate‐inducible isoforms with extended 5′‐regions overlapping antisense long non‐coding RNAs. Rpd3 and Ume6 repress the long isoform of VTH2 during fermentation. Cells metabolising glucose contain Vth2, while the protein is undetectable in acetate and during sporulation. VTH2 is a useful model locus to study mechanisms implicating promoter directionality, lncRNA transcription and post‐transcriptional control of gene expression via 5′‐UTRs. Since mammalian genes encode transcript isoforms and Rpd3 is conserved, our findings are relevant for gene expression in higher eukaryotes.