bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Toward Quality Cartilage Using Fibrinogen‐Based Nanofibers
Authors: Forget Jeremy , Awaja Firas , Gugutkov Dencho , Gustavsson Juhan , Gallego Ferrer Gloria , Coelho‐Sampaio Tatiana , Hochman‐Mendez Camila , Salmeron‐Sánchez Manuel , Altankov George
Published: June 2016

Mimicking the complex intricacies of the extra cellular matrix including 3D configurations and aligned fibrous structures were traditionally perused for producing cartilage tissue from stem cells. This study shows that human adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs) establishes significant chondrogenic differentiation and may generate quality cartilage when cultured on 2D and randomly oriented fibrinogen/poly‐lactic acid nanofibers compared to 3D sandwich‐like environments. The adhering cells show well‐developed focal adhesion complexes and actin cytoskeleton arrangements confirming the proper cellular interaction with either random or aligned nanofibers. However, quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis for Collagen 2 and Collagen 10 genes expression confirms favorable chondrogenic response of hADMSCs on random nanofibers and shows substantially higher efficacy of their differentiation in 2D configuration versus 3D constructs. These findings introduce a new direction for cartilage tissue engineering through providing a simple platform for the routine generation of transplantable stem cells derived articular cartilage replacement that might improve joint function.

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Finely Tuned Thermo‐Responsive Block Copolymer Micelles for Photothermal Effect‐Triggered Efficient Cellular Internalization
Authors: Huang Mingming , Li Hui , Ke Wendong , Li Junjie , Zhao Chengai , Ge Zhishen
Published: June 2016

Although biodegradable amphiphilic block copolymer micelles have been widely applied in the clinical applications as drug delivery nanocarriers, low‐efficiency cellular internalization frequently reduces therapeutic efficacy of the loaded drugs. Here, photothermal effect‐promoted cellular internalization of finely tuned thermo‐responsive amphiphilic biodegradable block copolymer nanocarriers via noninvasive stimuli of near‐infrared (NIR) light irradiation is demonstrated. Amphiphilic block copolymers, poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐block‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐N,N‐dimethylacrylamide) (PCL‐b‐P(NIPAM‐co‐DMA)), are prepared with finely tuned compositions of P(NIPAM‐co‐DMA) for desirable lower critical solution temperature of the block copolymer micelles in aqueous solution. The block copolymers are then used to co‐encapsulate doxorubicin and indocyanine green, which show high encapsulation efficiency and significant photothermal effect upon exposure to NIR light irradiation. The photothermal effect‐induced collapse and hydrophilic‐to‐hydrophobic transition of P(NIPAM‐co‐DMA) shells significantly enhance the interactions between drug‐loaded micelles and cell membranes, which dramatically promote the cellular internalization of the micelles and therapeutic efficacy of loaded anticancer drugs.

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Reducible Dimeric Conjugates of Small Internally Segment Interfering RNA for Efficient Gene Silencing
Authors: Hong Cheol Am , Nam Yoon Sung
Published: June 2016

The condensation of nucleic acids into compact nanoparticles with cationic carriers is a powerful tool for translocating exogenous nucleic acids into cells. To date, most efforts have been focused on the development of novel gene carriers for safe and efficient gene delivery. However, small interfering RNA (siRNA) is generally not strongly associated with cationic carriers due to its stiff structure and low spatial charge density. To overcome this limitation, this work introduces a well‐defined dimeric conjugate of small internally segment interfering RNA (sisiRNA) linked via a disulfide bond for enhanced cellular uptake and gene silencing. Dimeric sisiRNA is synthesized through oxidizing two monomeric sisiRNA molecules, each of which consists of a sense strand carrying a nick and an antisense strand modified with a thiol group at the 3′‐end. The nick in the sense strand enables the dimeric sisiRNA to be more effectively condensed into nanosized complexes due to the increased structural flexibility, which results in a higher gene silencing efficiency compared with the dimeric siRNA containing the intact sense strands. The results indicate that the discontinuity of the sense strands is a simple method of adding more flexibility to various siRNA‐based nanostructures for enhanced gene silencing.

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On the η‐function for bisingular pseudodifferential operators
Authors: Bohlen Karsten
Published: June 2016

In this work we consider the η‐invariant for pseudodifferential operators of tensor product type, also called bisingular pseudodifferential operators. We study complex powers of classical bisingular operators. We prove the trace property for the Wodzicki residue of bisingular operators and show how the residues of the η‐function can be expressed in terms of the Wodzicki trace of a projection operator. Then we calculate the K‐theory of the algebra of 0‐order (global) bisingular operators. With these preparations we establish the regularity properties of the η‐function at the origin for global bisingular operators which are self‐adjoint, elliptic and of positive orders.
Hierarchical high‐order conforming C1 bases for quadrangular and triangular finite elements
Authors: Ferreira Luan J. F. , Bittencourt Marco L.
Published: June 2016

We present three new sets of C1 hierarchical high‐order tensor‐product bases for conforming finite elements. The first basis is a high‐order extension of the Bogner–Fox–Schmit basis. The edge and face functions are constructed using a combination of cubic Hermite and Jacobi polynomials with C1 global continuity on the common edges of elements. The second basis uses the tensor product of fifth‐order Hermite polynomials and high‐order functions and achieves global C1 continuity for meshes of quadrilaterals and C2 continuity on the element vertices. The third basis for triangles is also constructed using the tensor product of one‐dimensional functions defined in barycentric coordinates. It also has global C1 continuity on edges and C2 continuity on vertices. A patch test is applied to the three considered elements. Projection and plate problems with smooth fabricated solutions are solved, and the performance of the h‐ and p‐refinements are evaluated by comparing the approximation errors in the L2‐ and energy norms. A plate with singularity is then studied, and h‐ and p‐refinements are analysed. Finally, a transient problem with implicit time integration is considered. The results show exponential convergence rates with increasing polynomial order for the triangular and quadrilateral meshes of non‐distorted and distorted elements. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proper generalized decomposition solution of the parameterized Helmholtz problem: application to inverse geophysical problems
Authors: Signorini Marianna , Zlotnik Sergio , Díez Pedro
Published: June 2016

The identification of the geological structure from seismic data is formulated as an inverse problem. The properties and the shape of the rock formations in the subsoil are described by material and geometric parameters, which are taken as input data for a predictive model. Here, the model is based on the Helmholtz equation, describing the acoustic response of the system for a given wave length. Thus, the inverse problem consists in identifying the values of these parameters such that the output of the model agrees the best with observations. This optimization algorithm requires multiple queries to the model with different values of the parameters. Reduced order models are especially well suited to significantly reduce the computational overhead of the multiple evaluations of the model.

In particular, the proper generalized decomposition produces a solution explicitly stating the parametric dependence, where the parameters play the same role as the physical coordinates. A proper generalized decomposition solver is devised to inexpensively explore the parametric space along the iterative process. This exploration of the parametric space is in fact seen as a post‐process of the generalized solution. The approach adopted demonstrates its viability when tested in two illustrative examples. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bone marrow transplantation for CVID‐like humoral immune deficiency associated with red cell aplasia
Authors: Sayour Elias J. , Mousallem Talal , Van Mater David , Wang Endi , Martin Paul , Buckley Rebecca H. , Barfield Raymond C.
Published: June 2016

Patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) have a higher incidence of autoimmune disease, which may mark the disease onset; however, anemia secondary to pure red cell aplasia is an uncommon presenting feature. Here, we describe a case of CVID‐like humoral immune deficiency in a child who initially presented with red cell aplasia and ultimately developed progressive bone marrow failure. Although bone marrow transplantation (BMT) has been associated with high mortality in CVID, our patient was successfully treated with a matched sibling BMT and engrafted with >98% donor chimerism and the development of normal antibody titers to diphtheria and tetanus toxoids.
Biopsychosocial problem‐related distress in cancer: examining the role of sex and age
Authors: Clark Karen , Bergerot Cristiane Decat , Philip Errol J. , Buga Sorin , Obenchain Richard , Loscalzo Matthew J.
Published: June 2016

Background

The current study explores how sex and age relate to biopsychosocial distress by applying a large‐scale analysis among individuals diagnosed with a variety of cancers.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted involving 6462 patients treated for cancer at a National Cancer Institute‐designated comprehensive cancer center between 2009 and 2014. Patients were asked to complete the biopsychosocial problem‐related distress touchscreen instrument prior to starting treatment as part of their routine clinical care.

Results

There was a significant interaction of age and sex on the total number of problems rated as high distress and the total number of problems that prompted a request to talk with a member of the team. Male patients between 18 and 39 reported significantly more problems as high distress than female patients in the same age group (mean = 5.34 and mean = 4.92, respectively; p = 0.005). A similar trend was found where male patients between 18–39 and 40–64 requested to talk with a member of the team significantly more often than female patients in these same age groups (mean = 3.25 and mean = 3.22 vs. mean = 2.70 and mean = 3.07, respectively; p = 0.016).

Conclusions

The results of the current study serve to refute generalizations regarding age or gender demographics and support preferences and thus reinforce the need to offer services in the context of cancer in flexible and varied ways. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Germ Cell Gene TDRD1 as an ERG Target Gene and a Novel Prostate Cancer Biomarker
Authors: Xiao Lijuan , Lanz Rainer B. , Frolov Anna , Castro Patricia D. , Zhang Zheng , Dong Baijun , Xue Wei , Jung Sung Yun , Lydon John P. , Edwards Dean P. , Mancini Michael A. , Feng Qin , Ittmann Michael M. , He Bin
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

TMPRSS2‐ERG fusion occurs in about half of prostate cancers and results in over‐expression of the oncogenic ERG protein in the prostate. The mechanism by which ERG contributes to prostate cancer initiation and progression remains largely unknown. Because ERG is a transcriptional activator, we reasoned that the target genes regulated by ERG could contribute to prostate cancer development.

METHODS

In a search for ERG target genes, we took advantage of published datasets from the MSKCC Prostate Oncogene Project, in which a comprehensive analysis was applied to define transcriptomes in 150 prostate tumors. We retrieved the mRNA expression dataset, split them based on ERG expression, and identified genes whose expression levels are associated with ERG mRNA levels.

RESULTS

mRNA expression levels of 21 genes were found to be significantly increased, while for one gene it was decreased in ERG‐positive prostate tumors. Among them, the expression of TDRD1 was the most significantly increased in ERG‐positive tumors. Among 131 primary prostate tumors which were primarily from European American patients, TDRD1 is over‐expressed in 68% of samples, while ERG is overexpressed in 48% of samples, suggesting an additional ERG‐independent mechanism of TDRD1 overexpression. In African American prostate tumors, TDRD1 mRNA is expressed in 44%, while ERG is expressed in 24% of samples. In normal tissues, TDRD1 mRNA is exclusively expressed in germ cells and its protein is also known as cancer/testis antigen 41.1 (CT41.1). We generated a mouse monoclonal antibody that recognizes human TDRD1 protein with high specificity and sensitivity. By Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, we demonstrate that TDRD1 protein is expressed in the majority of human prostate tumors, but not in normal prostate tissue. Finally, TDRD1 is not induced in the prostate of ERG overexpression transgenic mice, suggesting that such model does not fully recapitulate the TMPRSS2/ERG fusion‐dependent human prostate cancer development.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest TDRD1 as a novel prostate cancer biomarker. As an ERG target gene, TDRD1 might play an important role in human prostate cancer development, and as a cancer/testis antigen, TDRD1 might have long‐term potential to be a therapeutic target for prostate cancer immunotherapy. Prostate 76:1271–1284, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Novel System for Estimating Residual Disease and Pathologic Response to Neoadjuvant Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Murphy Claire , True Lawrence , Vakar‐Lopez Funda , Xia Jing , Gulati Roman , Montgomery Bruce , Tretiakova Maria
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Pathologic variables that characterize response of prostate carcinoma to current neoadjuvant therapy have not been characterized in detail. This study reports (i) the histological features of prostate cancer treated with abiraterone and enzalutamide and inter‐pathologist variance in identifying these features, and (ii) the effect of the novel androgen deprivation agents on residual cancer volume.

METHODS

We reviewed sections of prostatectomies from 37 patients treated with neoadjuvant agents and 22 untreated patients, tabulated the frequency of nine features of cancer (intact cancer glands, isolated cancer cells, poorly formed glands, cribriform architecture, clear spaces, intraductal carcinoma, solid sheets of cancer cells, prominent nucleoli, and previously described ABC grouping) and two features of benign glands (prominent basal cells and coalescent corpora amylacea). We used several methods, including a novel metric (visual grid system), to estimate residual tumor volume.

RESULTS

The most highly reproducible features were ABC grouping (κ = 0.56–0.7), presence of intraductal carcinoma (κ = 0.34–0.72), cribriform architecture (κ = 0.42–0.68), solid sheets of tumor cells (κ = 0.44–0.56), and coalescent corpora amylacea (κ = 0.4–0.54). Among poorly reproducible features were prominent nucleoli (κ = 0.03–0.11), clear spaces (κ = 0.05–0.07), and poorly formed cancer glands (κ = 0.02–0.1). Determination of tumor mass was excellent regardless of the method used—maximum tumor size (κ = 0.9–0.94), tumor area (κ = 0.94–0.96), and grid‐based tumor cellularity (κ = 0.9).

CONCLUSIONS

We propose using a set of parameters including maximum tumor size, tumor area/volume, cellularity, volume, and ABC grouping for evaluating radical prostatectomies post‐neoadjuvant therapy. Prostate 76:1285–1292, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bridging Sunitinib Exposure to Time‐to‐Tumor Progression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients With Mathematical Modeling of an Angiogenic Biomarker
Authors: Ait‐Oudhia S , Mager DE , Pokuri V , Tomaszewski G , Groman A , Zagst P , Fetterly G , Iyer R
Published: June 2016

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is third in cancer‐related causes of death worldwide and its treatment is a significant unmet medical need. Sunitinib is a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor of the angiogenic biomarker: soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (sVEGFR2). Sunitinib failed its primary overall survival endpoint in patients with advanced HCC in a phase III trial compared to sorafenib. In the present study, pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic modeling was used to link drug‐exposure to tumor‐growth‐inhibition (TGI) and time‐to‐tumor progression (TTP) through sVEGFR2 dynamics. The results suggest that 1) active drug concentration (i.e., sunitinib and its metabolite) inhibits the release of sVEGFR2 and that such inhibition is associated with TGI, and 2) daily sVEGFR2 exposure is likely a reliable predictor for the TTP in HCC patients. Moreover, the model quantitatively links the dynamics of an angiogenesis biomarker to TTP and accurately predicts observed literature‐reported results of placebo treatment.
Extending the indication for robot‐assisted retroperitoneal partial nephrectomy to antero‐lateral renal tumors
Authors: Kim Hee Youn , Choe Hyun‐Sop , Lee Dong Sup , Yoo Jae Mo , Lee Seung‐Ju
Published: June 2016

Background

Robot‐assisted retroperitoneal partial nephrectomy (RARPN) is typically employed for posterior renal tumors. This work aimed to extend the indication of RARPN to patients with selected antero‐lateral renal tumor.

Methods

Patients who underwent RARPN between December 2013 and September 2015 at the authors' institution were enrolled. Two intersecting lines were drawn on an axial CT image to define the medial/lateral nature of anterior renal tumors. Patients with antero‐lateral tumor and posterior tumor were compared.

Results

Antero‐lateral tumors constituted 56.1% (32/57) of the total cases. The perioperative outcomes between the two groups were comparable. Although the operation time was longer for the antero‐lateral tumor group, it did not show statistical significance. No cases had positive margins. There was one case of Clavien‐Dindo grade IIIa complication in the antero‐lateral tumor group.

Conclusions

RARPN is a safe and effective procedure not only for posterior renal tumors but also for carefully selected antero‐lateral renal tumors. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Wnt pathway: a key network in cell signalling dysregulated by viruses
Authors: van Zuylen Wendy J. , Rawlinson William D. , Ford Caroline E.
Published: June 2016

Viruses are obligate parasites dependent on host cells for survival. Viral infection of a cell activates a panel of pattern recognition receptors that mediate antiviral host responses to inhibit viral replication and dissemination. Viruses have evolved mechanisms to evade and subvert this antiviral host response, including encoding proteins that hijack, mimic and/or manipulate cellular processes such as the cell cycle, DNA damage repair, cellular metabolism and the host immune response. Currently, there is an increasing interest whether viral modulation of these cellular processes, including the cell cycle, contributes to cancer development. One cellular pathway related to cell cycle signalling is the Wnt pathway. This review focuses on the modulation of this pathway by human viruses, known to cause (or associated with) cancer development. The main mechanisms where viruses interact with the Wnt pathway appear to be through (i) epigenetic modification of Wnt genes; (ii) cellular or viral miRNAs targeting Wnt genes; (iii) altering specific Wnt pathway members, often leading to (iv) nuclear translocation of β‐catenin and activation of Wnt signalling. Given that diverse viruses affect this signalling pathway, modulating Wnt signalling could be a generalised critical process for the initiation or maintenance of viral pathogenesis, with resultant dysregulation contributing to virus‐induced cancers. Further study of this virus–host interaction may identify options for targeted therapy against Wnt signalling molecules as a means to reduce virus‐induced pathogenesis and the downstream consequences of infection. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multifunctional, Biocompatible, Non‐peptidic Hydrogels: from Water Purification to Drug Delivery
Authors: Baker Benjamin C. , Higgins Clare L. , Ravishankar Divyashree , Colquhoun Howard M. , Stevens Gary C. , Greco Francesca , Greenland Barnaby W. , Hayes Wayne
Published: June 2016

A novel series of low molecular weight non‐peptidic, biocompatible super‐hydrogelators with both water purification and drug delivery properties have been developed. Linking the bis aromatic urea groups responsible for gelation together to form bi‐ and tri‐armed gelators, affords good control over gelation and water purification properties. The use of the gels as effective drug scavengers and delivery systems has been demonstrated with dye substrates, via pH inversion, as monitored by UV‐vis spectroscopy. Finally, the systems′ abilities as both drug scavenging and delivery systems have been demonstrated with the clinically‐approved drugs chlorpromazine and doxorubicin, respectively.
Theoretical Investigations on Naphthodithiophene Diimide‐Based Copolymers as Acceptor for All‐Polymer Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Liu Xiaorui , Huang Chengzhi , Wang Lei , Shen Wei , He Rongxing , Li Ming
Published: June 2016

We present an effective approach to modulate the electron‐withdrawing ability and the molecular planarity in donor‐acceptor (D−A) copolymer in order to develop the design strategy of acceptor polymers for improvement of the organic solar cell (OSC) performances. To confirm this strategy, based on a series of the D−A polymers (PNDIT (P1), PNDIS (P2) and PNDIBz (P3)), by modification of the electron‐withdrawing capability on those polymer backbones, a series of new D−A polymers (Pa1‐Pa3) were designed. The polymers Pa1‐Pa3 exhibit better planarity than that of corresponding P1‐P3, respectively. Compared with the properties of P1‐P3, Pa1‐Pa3 as acceptor materials not only yield a redshift and stronger absorption spectrum which results in a wider absorption within the solar spectrum, but also show much better electron acceptor properties, smaller exciton binding energy for charge dissociation and larger electron mobility. The results confirmed that the design strategy on adjustment of the electron‐withdrawing ability and the molecular planarity in D−A copolymer is a reliable approach to obtain the promising polymers as acceptors in OSC applications.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of 18%Mn TWIP/TRIP Steels Processed by Warm or Hot Rolling
Authors: Belyakov Andrey , Kaibyshev Rustam , Torganchuk Vladimir
Published: June 2016

Two Fe–18%Mn steels with carbon content of 0.4 or 0.6% C are hot rolled at 1150 °C with 60% reduction followed by thermo‐mechanical processing under conditions of warm or hot rolling at 500 or 1100 °C, respectively, with a reduction of 60%. The uniform microstructures consisting of equiaxed grains with an average size of 34 and 26 μm are produced by hot rolling in the Fe–18Mn–0.4 C and Fe–18Mn–0.6 C steels, respectively. In contrast, the warm rolling results in the deformation microstructures composed of pancaked grains elongated in the rolling direction with mean transverse grain sizes of 14 and 10 μm in the Fe–18Mn–0.4 C and Fe–18Mn–0.6 C steels, respectively. Both the hot and warm rolling improve the mechanical properties of the present steels. A decrease in the rolling temperature results in significant increase in the yield strength, which comprises 300–360 MPa after rolling at 1100 °C and 850–950 MPa after rolling at 500 °C, although the ultimate tensile strength does not increase substantially (1000 and 1300 MPa after hot and warm rolling, respectively). The steel with higher carbon content is characterized by somewhat higher strength after warm/hot rolling.
Effect of lipid types on complexation and some physicochemical properties of bambara groundnut starch
Authors: Oyeyinka Samson A. , Singh Suren , Venter Sonja L. , Amonsou Eric O.
Published: June 2016

This study investigated the effect of stearic acid, linoleic acid, and lysophosphatidylcholine on complex formation and physicochemical properties of bambara starch in comparison with potato starch. The complexation index reached maximum at 2% lipid concentration. Bambara starch complexed better with stearic acid than with linoleic acid and lysophosphatidylcholine. A similar trend was observed for potato starch but to a lesser extent. All lipids significantly reduced the peak and setback viscosities of bambara starch, but increased the final viscosity. Pasting of bambara and potato starches with lipids resulted in the formation of type‐I V‐amylose complexes, with melting temperatures ranging from ∼98 to 102°C. X‐ray diffraction of these complexes showed the crystalline V‐amylose pattern with a major peak at 2Θ = 19.9° and minor peaks at 2Θ = 7.4° and 12.9°. Modification of bambara starch with lipids resulted in reduced digestibility, suggesting their potential application in formulating foods for the management of diabetes.
Chicks produced in the Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) after cloacal insemination of frozen‐thawed semen
Authors: O'Brien Justine Kellie , Steinman Karen J. , Montano Gisele A. , Dubach Jean M. , Robeck Todd R.
Published: June 2016

The in vitro and in vivo functionality of cryopreserved spermatozoa was examined over two breeding seasons in a zoological colony of Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus). Frozen‐thawed semen was inseminated into five anesthetized females, over a total of eight egg production cycles, with a different male used for each artificial insemination (AI) within each season. Females were maintained within the colony in cordoned nest sites to prevent copulation with their paired male, and were inseminated every 3–10 days until the first oviposition. Semen frozen from seven males using a straw method retained 39.8%, 25.7%, 74.0%, and 52.1% of its initial total motility, progressive motility, average path velocity, and plasma membrane integrity, respectively. Normal morphology of motile cells was reduced (P < 0.05) during freeze‐thawing from 76.7% immediately prior to freezing to 65.3% post‐thawing. Conceptive females received 1.6 ± 0.2 inseminations before the first oviposition, with 19.2 ± 1.6 × 106 motile, morphologically normal spermatozoa per insemination. Overall fertility was 53.3% (8/15 eggs), hatchability was 50.0% (4/8), and genetic analyses confirmed that all embryos and hatchlings were sired by the AI male. Fertile eggs were laid at 4.0–12.1 days after AI, indicating that frozen‐thawed spermatozoa resided in the female reproductive tract for up to ∼7.2 days prior to fertilization. Results demonstrate that frozen‐thawed Magellanic penguin spermatozoa are fully functional in vivo and support the use of genome banking and AI as tools for managing the sustainability of zoological penguin populations. Zoo Biol. 35:326–338, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel amidase from Brevibacterium epidermidis ZJB-07021: gene cloning, refolding and application in butyrylhydroxamic acid synthesis
Authors: Ruan Li-Tao , Zheng Ren-Chao , Zheng Yu-Guo
Published: June 2016

A novel amidase gene (bami) was cloned from Brevibacterium epidermidis ZJB-07021 by combination of degenerate PCR and high-efficiency thermal asymmetric interlaced PCR (hiTAIL-PCR). The deduced amino acid sequence showed low identity (≤55 %) with other reported amidases. The bami gene was overexpressed in Escherichia coli, and the resultant inclusion bodies were refolded and purified to homogeneity with a recovery of 22.6 %. Bami exhibited a broad substrate spectrum towards aliphatic, aromatic and heterocyclic amides, and showed the highest acyl transfer activity towards butyramide with specific activity of 1331.0 ± 24.0 U mg−1. Kinetic analysis demonstrated that purified Bami exhibited high catalytic efficiency (414.9 mM−1 s−1) for acyl transfer of butyramide, with turnover number (K  cat) of 3569.0 s−1. Key parameters including pH, substrate/co-substrate concentration, reaction temperature and catalyst loading were investigated and the Bami showed maximum acyl transfer activity at 50 °C, pH 7.5. Enzymatic catalysis of 200 mM butyramide with 15 μg mL−1 purified Bami was completed in 15 min with a BHA yield of 88.1 % under optimized conditions. The results demonstrated the great potential of Bami for the production of a variety of hydroxamic acids.
Continuous harvesting of a dominant bracken alters a cool‐temperate montane grassland community and increases plant diversity in Nagano, Japan
Authors: Suzuki Ryo O. , Kenta Tanaka , Sato Miyuki , Masaki Daisuke , Kanai Ryuji
Published: June 2016

Declines in biodiversity can be caused by intense land‐use or by land abandonment. Traditional plant‐gathering in Japan has declined or has often been abandoned in recent decades. However, little is known about how traditional plant‐gathering affects the diversity, productivity, and composition of plant communities. Traditionally, bracken (Pteridium aquilinum subsp. japonicum) served as a natural resource in Japan, and people continue to harvest it in some places. We conducted a 4‐year field experiment in a cool‐temperate grassland on the Sugadaira Plateau, Nagano Prefecture, comparing a continuous harvesting treatment of the dominant Pteridium with a non‐harvested control. We wanted to determine whether Pteridium harvesting would alter plant species richness, total productivity, and plant community composition. Local people harvested Pteridium shoots in a 1800 m2 treatment area each year from 2011 to 2014. By 2014, species richness and diversity (Shannon index) had significantly increased while Pteridium abundance (number of shoots and biomass) had decreased in the harvest treatment when compared with the control. Total productivity, measured as combined aboveground biomass of all vascular plant species, was similar between the treatment and control; however, community composition differed. Harvested plots had a higher biomass of erect‐formed, invasive and native species, but lower biomass of small‐formed species when compared with the control. Our results suggest that traditional plant‐gathering, such as periodic Pteridium harvesting can result in increases in plant diversity while total productivity is maintained. However, long‐term monitoring is recommended to detect any subsequent undesirable changes in the community, such as increases in invasive species populations.
Garnet-Staurolite-Mica Schist from Rangli Rangliot, Eastern Himalaya: Constraints from Phase Equilibria and Thermobarometry
Authors: Prakash Divya , Tewari Suparna
Published: June 2016

Rangli Rangliot is an integral part of lesser Himalaya. The area around Rangli Rangliot consists of garnet-staurolite-mica schist and it is characterized by mineral assemblage garnet-biotite-muscovite-staurolite-quartz± plagioclase. Different reaction textures are of particular interest as they reflect discontinuous or continuous reactions under changing physical conditions. The relative XMg in the minerals varies in the order: muscovite> biotite> staurolite> garnet, and the XMn decreases in the order: garnet>staurolite>biotite>muscovite. The P-T evolution of the garnet-staurolite-mica schist has been constrained through the use of internally consistent TWEEQU programme and Perple_X software in the KFMASH model system. The combination of these two approaches demonstrates that the garnet-staurolite-mica schist experienced peak pressure and temperature at 5.8 kbar and 590 °C. The proposed clockwise P-T path implies that rocks from the study area could have resulted from thickened continental crust undergoing decompression.
Magnitud de las diferencias: reanálisis de efectos de un tratamiento
Authors: Merino-Soto César , Angulo-Ramos Marisol
Published: June 2016

En una reciente evaluación del aprendizaje en entornos de simulación, mediante un diseño pretest-postest, sus resultados respaldan el efecto adaptativo de la exposición a escenarios de simulación clínica. Sin embargo, su diseño analítico únicamente enfatizó la significación estadística como evidencia de sus conclusiones, y esta puede ponerse en cuestionamiento.
DATING A PRE-IMPERIAL TEXT: THE CASE STUDY OF THEBOOK OF LORD SHANG
Authors: Pines Yuri
Published: June 2016

This article explores the dating of theBook of Lord Shang(Shangjunshu商君書). Despite the importance of this text as one of major ideological products of the Warring States period (453–221b.c.e.), it remained largely ignored in mainstream Western Sinology, in part because of the confusion about the dates of its composition. The article analyzes different criteria employed by earlier scholars to ascertain the dates of individual chapters of theBook of Lord Shangand investigates the relative weight of each of these criteria. This results in a methodologically transparent discussion, which not only advances our understanding of the complex textual history of theBook of LordShang but also makes a step toward establishment of a commonly acceptable set of dating determinants which may be employed in investigating the dates of other pre-imperial (i.e. pre-221b.c.e.) texts.
Selenium status in neonates with connatal infection
Authors: Wiehe Lennart , Cremer Malte , Wisniewska Monika , Becker Niels-Peter , Rijntjes Eddy , Martitz Janine , Hybsier Sandra , Renko Kostja , Bührer Christoph , Schomburg Lutz
Published: June 2016

Infectious diseases impair Se metabolism, and low Se status is associated with mortality risk in adults with critical disease. The Se status of neonates is poorly characterised, and a potential impact of connatal infection is unknown. We hypothesised that an infection negatively affects the Se status of neonates. We conducted an observational case–control study at three intensive care units at the Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany. Plasma samples were collected from forty-four neonates. On the basis of clinical signs for bacterial infection and concentrations of IL-6 or C-reactive protein, neonates were classified into control (n23) and infected (n21) groups. Plasma Se and selenoprotein P (SePP) concentrations were determined by X-ray fluorescence and ELISA, respectively, at day of birth (day 1) and 48 h later (day 3). Se and SePP showed a positive correlation in both groups of neonates. Se concentrations indicative of Se deficit in adults (<20 µg/l) were observed in four infected neonates and one control subject, and three infected neonates had very low SePP concentrations (<0·5 mg/l). The univariate analysis revealed a significant difference in Se and SePP concentrations between the groups. Both parameters correlated inversely to IL-6 in neonates with severe inflammation (IL-6>500 ng/l). During antibiotic therapy, SePP increased significantly from day 1 (1·03 (sd0·10) mg/l) to day 3 (1·34 (sd0·10) mg/l), indicative of improved hepatic Se metabolism. We conclude that both Se and SePP are suitable biomarkers for assessing Se status in neonates and for identifying subjects at risk of deficiency.
Microenvironment of macula flava in the human vocal fold as a stem cell niche
Authors: Sato K , Chitose S , Kurita T , Umeno H
Published: June 2016

Background:

There is growing evidence that the cells in the maculae flavae are tissue stem cells of the human vocal fold mucosa, and that the maculae flavae are a candidate for a stem cell niche. The role of microenvironment in the maculae flavae of the human vocal fold mucosa was investigated.

Method:

Anterior maculae flavae from six surgical specimens were cultured in a mesenchymal stem cell growth medium or a Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium.

Results:

Using mesenchymal stem cell growth medium, the subcultured cells formed a colony-forming unit, and cell division reflected asymmetric self-renewal. This indicates that these cells are mesenchymal stem cells or stromal stem cells in the bone marrow. Using Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium, the subcultured cells showed symmetric cell division without a colony-forming unit.

Conclusion:

A proper microenvironment in the maculae flavae of the human vocal fold mucosa is necessary to be effective as a stem cell niche that maintains the stemness of the contained tissue stem cells.
Roman Sacrifice, Inside and Out
Authors: Schultz Celia E.
Published: June 2016

The ‘insider-outsider problem’ has had little impact on the study of religion in pre-Christian Rome. Classicists generally assume that the modern idea of sacrifice as the ritual killing of an animal applies to the Roman context. This study argues, however, that the apparent continuity is illusory in some important ways and that we have lost sight of some fine distinctions that the Romans made among the rituals they performed.Sacrificiumincluded vegetal and inedible offerings, and it was not the only Roman ritual that had living victims. Romansacrificiumis both less and more than the typical etic notion of sacrifice.
HPV genotypes detected in the oropharyngeal mucosa of HIV-infected men who have sex with men in Northern Italy
Authors: MARTINELLI M. , MAZZA F. , FRATI E. R. , FASOLO M. M. , COLZANI D. , BIANCHI S. , FASOLI E. , AMENDOLA A. , ORLANDO G. , TANZI E.
Published: June 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological profile of HPV oropharyngeal infections in HIV-infected men who have sex with men. A total of 135 subjects were enrolled at the L. Sacco University Hospital (Milan, Italy) to evaluate their HPV oropharyngeal infection status at baseline and at a follow-up visit at least 12 months later. HPV DNA was detected from oropharyngeal swabs using an in-house nested PCR that amplifies a segment of the L1 gene. The PCR products were then sequenced and genotyped. A greater percentage of high-risk genotypes was identified compared to low-risk genotypes (13·7% vs. 6·9%, P < 0·05), and two uncommon alpha-HPV genotypes were detected, i.e. HPV-102 and HPV-114. HPV infection prevalence was 24·4% and the cumulative incidence was 24·1%. During the follow-up period, one case of HPV infection (HPV-33) persisted, while the overall rate of infection clearance was 58·3%. HPV oropharyngeal infection was widespread in the cohort examined, and most of the infections were transient and cleared within 12 months. These results may help to clarify the role of HPV in the oropharynx and may also improve our understanding of the need to implement preventive strategies in at-risk populations.
A second note on the feasibility of generalized universal composability
Authors: GONZÁLEZ ALONSO , HEVIA ALEJANDRO
Published: June 2016

Yao et al. (A note on the feasibility of generalized universal composability.Theory and Applications of Models of Computationpp. 474–485, 2007; A note on the feasibility of generalised universal composability.Mathematical Structures in Computer Science,19(1), pp. 193–205) claimed a potential limitation on the class of protocols that could be securely implemented in the generalized universal composability (GUC) framework proposed by Canetti et al. (Universally composable security with global setup.Lecture Notes in Computer Science, pp. 61–85, 2007). Specifically, Yao et al. presented a concrete attack on a GUC Zero Knowledge (GUCZK) protocol, a natural adaptation Blum's ZK proof for Directed Hamiltonicity using the general GUC feasibility of Canetti et al. (Universally composable security with global setup.Lecture Notes in Computer Science, pp. 61–85, 2007). Interestingly, the attack was not analysed in the GUC model in Yao et al. (A note on the feasibility of generalised universal composability.Mathematical Structures in Computer Science19(1), pp. 193–205, 2009) but in theFUC model, a new UC-like framework proposed in the same work. Nonetheless, Yao et al. (A note on the feasibility of generalised universal composability.Mathematical Structures in Computer Science19(1), pp. 193–205, 2009) argued that, in light of this attack, GUC would lose its concurrent general composability and proof of knowledge properties. Concretely, they argue that GUC composability would now be with respect to some adversaries with limited access to external arbitrary protocols.

In this work, we show that the claimed attack from Yao et al. is indeed harmless and does not contradict the security of the mentioned GUCZK protocol, thus restoring the general feasibility for GUC.
The medial forebrain bundle as a target for deep brain stimulation for obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Coenen Volker A. , Schlaepfer Thomas E. , Goll Peter , Reinacher Peter C. , Voderholzer Ulrich , Tebartz van Elst Ludger , Urbach Horst , Freyer Tobias
Published: June 2016

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a promising putative modality for the treatment of refractory psychiatric disorders such as major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Several targets have been posited; however, a clear consensus on differential efficacy and possible modes of action remain unclear. DBS to the supero-lateral branch of the medial forebrain bundle (slMFB) has recently been introduced for major depression (MD). Due to our experience with slMFB stimulation for MD, and because OCD might be related to similar dysfunctions of the reward system, treatment with slMFB DBS seams meaningful. Here we describe our first 2 cases together with a hypothetical mode of action.

We describe diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) fiber tractographically (FT)-assisted implantation of the bilateral DBS systems in 2 male patients. In a selected literature overview, we discuss the possible mode of action. Both patients were successfully implanted and stimulated. The follow-up time was 12 months. One patient showed a significant response (Yale–Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale [YBOCS] reduction by 35%); the other patient reached remission criteria 3 months after surgery (YBOCS<14) and showed mild OCD just above the remission criterion at 12 months follow-up.

While the hypermetabolism theory for OCD involves the cortico–striato–thalamo–cortical (CSTC) network, we think that there is clinical evidence that the reward system plays a crucial role. Our findings suggest an important role of this network in mechanisms of disease development and recovery. In this uncontrolled case series, continuous bilateral DBS to the slMFB led to clinically significant improvements of ratings of OCD severity. Ongoing research focuses on the role of the reward system in OCD, and its yet-underestimated role in this underlying neurobiology of the disease.
Digit Span Performance in Children with Dystrophinopathy: A Verbal Span or Working Memory Contribution?
Authors: Leaffer Emily B. , Fee Robert J. , Hinton Veronica J.
Published: June 2016

Objectives: In a large cohort of boys with dystrophinopathies and their unaffected siblings, we examined whether consistently observed performance on digit span is due primarily to a verbal span or executive deficit. We additionally assessed whether digit span performance contributed to the observed variability in reading performance noted in this population. Methods: Performance of 170 boys with dystrophinopathy was compared to 95 unaffected sibling controls on measures of verbal function, reading, and digit span. Maximum digit span forward (DSF) and backward (DSB) lengths were converted to Z-scores using normative data. Independent sample t tests, analysis of variance, and hierarchical multiple regression were run (α=0.05). Results: Probands performed worse than controls on digit span, even after accounting for differences in general verbal function (p<.0001). Differences were significant for both DSF (p<.005) and DSB (p<.0001) span length, and an interaction effect yielded significantly worse DSB compared with DSF (p=.01). Reading performance was also lower in probands (p<.0001). The contribution of general level of verbal function, and forward and backward span lengths, did not vary between groups. Conclusions: In boys with dystrophinopathy, decreased performance on digit span appears to be due to both decreased span forward (measuring verbal span only) and backward (measuring verbal span and working memory). The extent to which sibling controls exhibited better performance compared to the probands was significantly greater for backward span when compared with forward span. Thus, immediate verbal memory and executive control are differentially compromised among boys with dystrophinopathy, and both of these abilities independently contribute to reading performance. (JINS, 2016, 22, 777–784)
Effects of contrastive accents in memory for L2 discourse
Authors: LEE EUN-KYUNG , FRAUNDORF SCOTT
Published: June 2016

Contrastive pitch accents benefit native English speakers’ memory for discourse by enhancing a representation of a specific relevant contrast item (Fraundorf et al., 2010). This study examines whether and how second language (L2) listeners differ in how contrastive accents affect their encoding and representation of a discourse, as compared to native speakers. Using the same materials as Fraundorf et al. (2010), we found that low and mid proficiency L2 learners showed no memory benefit from contrastive accents. High proficiency L2 learners revealed some sensitivity to contrastive accents, but failed to fully integrate information conveyed by contrastive accents into their discourse representation. The results suggest that L2 listeners’ non-native performance in processing contrastive accents, observed in this and other prior studies, may be attributed at least in part to a difference in the depth of processing of the information conveyed by contrastive accents.
Developing and implementing a social prescribing initiative in primary care: insights into the possibility of normalisation and sustainability from a UK case study
Authors: Whitelaw Sandy , Thirlwall Claire , Morrison Amy , Osborne Jill , Tattum Lisa , Walker Sharon
Published: June 2016

Aim

To conduct a process-based evaluation of the inception and early implementation of a social prescribing initiative (Healthy Connections Stewartry) in two UK General Practices.

Background

Prescribing a range of social, cultural, arts and educational activities to clients in primary care (known as ‘social prescribing’ or ‘community linking schemes’) as a means of addressing long-term physical health conditions and promoting mental health and well-being is becoming increasingly prominent and popular. However, concerns exist over a lack of evidence of effectiveness and formalised insights into how such initiatives may be optimally implemented.

Methods

Within a case study design and using 1–1 semi-structured interviews, three related data sets were developed over a 12-month period from 30 purposively sampled informants: the project steering group; the wider primary care team; and various community groups. Data analysis drew on various theoretical resources, particularly those pertaining to nurturing sufficient capacity for the organisational ‘normalisation’ of this practice and understanding the dynamic flows and linkages between potential clients, ‘prescribing’ primary care staff and the available community resources.

Findings

The inception and implementation of the initiative had been broadly successful and that more generally, there were grounds to suggest that these practices were becoming ‘normalised’ into the day-to-day cultures and routines of the primary care organisations. A series of procedural features are considered significant in achieving such ends. Some specific barriers to change are identified and ultimately in the context of potential ‘transferability’, a wider reflection is undertaken of the potential for such innovative practice to become established in less advantageous organisational circumstances. Fundamental difficulties are recognised and thus the need for formally implemented ‘change’ processes. Furthermore, for social prescribing to become a pervasive feature of health-care provision, the need for necessary capacity and resources is stressed.