bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of faecal occult blood test screening on emergency admissions and short-term outcomes for colorectal cancer
Authors: Libby G , Brewster D H , Steele R J C
Published: September 2014

Background

Small studies have examined the effect of faecal occult blood test (FOBT) screening on the proportion of hospital admissions for colorectal cancer (CRC) classed as an emergency. This study aimed to examine this and short-term outcomes in persons invited for screening compared with a control group not invited.

Methods

The invited group comprised all individuals invited between 1 April 2000 and 31 July 2007 in the Scottish arm of the UK demonstration pilot of FOBT, and subsequently diagnosed with CRC aged 50–72 years between 1 May 2000 and 31 July 2009. The controls comprised all remaining individuals in Scotland not invited for FOBT but diagnosed with CRC aged 50–72 years in the same period.

Results

There were 2981 people diagnosed with CRC in the group invited for screening (58·3 per cent participated) and 9842 in the control group. Multivariable regression adjusted for sex, age, deprivation, co-morbidities, tumour site and Dukes' stage showed no difference between the groups for emergency admissions (odds ratio (OR) 0·89, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0·77 to 1·02; P = 0·084) or length of hospital stay (LOS) (β coefficient −1·02 (95 per cent c.i. –1·05 to 1·01) days; P = 0·226). Comparing participants with controls, there were fewer emergency admissions (OR 0·59, 0·49 to 0·71; P < 0·001) and shorter LOS (β coefficient −1·06 (−1·10 to −1·02) days; P = 0·001). Short-term mortality was lower in the screened than the non-screened population (1·1 versus 2·8 per cent; P = 0·001).

Conclusion

People who participated in FOBT screening had fewer emergency admissions and a shorter LOS. Deprivation was associated negatively with participation, but the impact of FOBT participation on emergency admissions was independent of deprivation level. The reduction in LOS has potential to reduce financial costs.
In vivo synthesis of selenium nanoparticles by Halococcus salifodinae BK18 and their anti‐proliferative properties against HeLa cell line
Authors: Srivastava Pallavee , Braganca Judith M. , Kowshik Meenal
Published: September 2014

Nanoparticles synthesis by bacteria and yeasts has been widely reported, however, synthesis using halophilic archaea is still in a nascent stage. This study aimed at the intracellular synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) by the haloarchaeon Halococcus salifodinae BK18 when grown in the presence of sodium selenite. Crystallographic characterization of SeNPs by X‐ray diffraction, Selected area electron diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy exhibited rod shaped nanoparticles with hexagonal crystal lattice, a crystallite domain size of 28 nm and an aspect ratio (length:diameter) of 13:1. Energy disruptive analysis of X‐ray analysis confirmed the presence of selenium in the nano‐preparation. The nitrate reductase enzyme assay and the inhibitor studies indicated the involvement of NADH‐dependent nitrate reductase in SeNPs synthesis and metal tolerance. The SeNPs exhibited good anti‐proliferative properties against HeLa cell lines while being non‐cytotoxic to normal cell line model HaCat, suggesting the use of these SeNPs as cancer chemotherapeutic agent. This is the first study on selenium nanoparticles synthesis by haloarchaea. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 30:1480–1487, 2014
Enhanced fermentative capacity of yeasts engineered in storage carbohydrate metabolism
Authors: Pérez‐Torrado Roberto , Matallana Emilia
Published: September 2014

During yeast biomass production, cells are grown through several batch and fed‐batch cultures on molasses. This industrial process produces several types of stresses along the process, including thermic, osmotic, starvation, and oxidative stress. It has been shown that Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains with enhanced stress resistance present enhanced fermentative capacity of yeast biomass produced. On the other hand, storage carbohydrates have been related to several types of stress resistance in S. cerevisiae. Here we have engineered industrial strains in storage carbohydrate metabolism by overexpressing the GSY2 gene, that encodes the glycogen synthase enzyme, and deleting NTH1 gene, that encodes the neutral trehalase enzyme. Industrial biomass production process simulations were performed with control and modified strains to measure cellular carbohydrates and fermentation capacity of the produced biomass. These modifications increased glycogen and trehalose levels respectively during bench‐top trials of industrial biomass propagation. We finally show that these strains display an improved fermentative capacity than its parental strain after biomass production. Modification of storage carbohydrate content increases fermentation or metabolic capacity of yeast which can be an interesting application for the food industry. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 31:20–24, 2015
The Placement of Children Following Non‐Accidental Head Injuries: Are They Protected From Further Harm?
Authors: Stephens Amanda , Oates Kim
Published: September 2014

Key Practitioner Messages:

Most children with non‐accidental head injury are removed from their parents in New South Wales, Australia.

Despite high rates of removal, re‐notification to the statutory authority, including for risk of physical harm, remains high.

Further research is needed on how placement might affect ongoing involvement of non‐accidental head injury victims with the statutory authority.
Protecting Unborn and Newborn Babies
Authors: Masson Judith , Dickens Jonathan
Published: September 2014

Legal action to separate newborn babies from their parents is regarded as ‘draconian’ by the courts and subject to intense scrutiny. This paper outlines current legal and social work issues relating to such intervention and discusses the potential benefits of the ‘pre‐proceedings process’ to address them. This process enables parents to have legal representation in a discussion with children's services when care proceedings are contemplated. The paper reports the findings of recent socio‐legal research by the authors into the use of the process in England and Wales. In six local authorities, 30 per cent of 120 cases where the pre‐proceedings process was used related to unborn babies; a pre‐proceedings letter was sent in 75 per cent of unborn baby cases where care proceedings were considered, compared with 57 per cent of cases overall. The process could help to secure parental cooperation for pre‐birth assessments and short‐term protective arrangements at birth, thus avoiding emergency intervention. Families were diverted from care proceedings in 30 per cent of the cases where this was a possibility. Furthermore, the process was valued by social workers and lawyers as being fairer to parents. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘This process enables parents to have legal representation in a discussion with children's services’

Key Practitioner Messages:

Local children's safeguarding boards should be more aware of the pre‐proceedings process.

Local authorities should use the pre‐proceedings process in accordance with guidance.

Protecting babies requires thorough assessment, good planning and timely decisions.

Early use of the pre‐proceedings process in pre‐birth cases assists assessment and planning.

More efforts are required to involve fathers in the pre‐proceedings process.

The pre‐proceedings process can divert cases from care proceedings.

‘Local children's safeguarding boards should be more aware of the pre‐proceedings process’
Basis enrichment and solid–fluid coupling for model‐reduced fluid simulation
Authors: Gerszewski Dan , Kavan Ladislav , Sloan Peter‐Pike , Bargteil Adam W.
Published: September 2014

We present several enhancements to model‐reduced fluid simulation that allow improved simulation bases and two‐way solid–fluid coupling. Specifically, we present a basis enrichment scheme that allows us to combine data‐driven or artistically derived bases with more general analytic bases derived from Laplacian eigenfunctions. We handle two‐way solid–fluid coupling in a time‐splitting fashion—we alternately timestep the fluid and rigid body simulators, while taking into account the effects of the fluid on the rigid bodies and vice versa. We employ the vortex panel method to handle solid–fluid coupling and use dynamic pressure to compute the effect of the fluid on rigid bodies. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design and Synthesis of New Hybrid Molecules That Activate the Transcription Factor Nrf2 and Simultaneously Release Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Wilson Jayne Louise , Fayad Kobeissi Sarah , Oudir Souhila , Haas Benjamin , Michel Brian , Dubois Randé Jean‐Luc , Ollivier Anthony , Martens Thierry , Rivard Michael , Motterlini Roberto , Foresti Roberta
Published: September 2014

The transcription factor Nrf2 and its downstream target heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) are essential protective systems against oxidative stress and inflammation. The products of HO‐1 enzymatic activity, biliverdin and carbon monoxide (CO), actively contribute to this protection, suggesting that exploitation of these cellular systems may offer new therapeutic avenues in a variety of diseases. Starting from a CO‐releasing compound and a chemical scaffold exhibiting electrophilic characteristics (esters of fumaric acid), we report the synthesis of hybrid molecules that simultaneously activate Nrf2 and liberate CO. These hybrid compounds, which we termed “HYCOs”, release CO to myoglobin and activate the CO‐sensitive fluorescent probe COP‐1, while also potently inducing nuclear accumulation of Nrf2 and HO‐1 expression and activity in different cell types. Thus, we provide here the first example of a new class of pharmacologically active molecules that target the HO‐1 pathway by combining an Nrf2 activator coordinated to a CO‐releasing group.
Chlorination of Two Isomers of C86 Fullerene: Molecular Structures of C86(16)Cl16, C86(17)Cl18, C86(17)Cl20, and C86(17)Cl22
Authors: Yang Shangfeng , Wei Tao , Troyanov Sergey I.
Published: September 2014

Chlorination of a mixture of C86 isomers no. 16 (Cs) and no. 17 (C2) with VCl4 or a (TiCl4+Br2) mixture afforded crystalline chlorides with 16 to 22 Cl atoms per fullerene cage. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction with the use of synchrotron radiation enabled us to determine the chlorination patterns of C86(16)Cl16, C86(17)Cl18, C86(17)Cl20, and C86(17)Cl22. At these degrees of chlorination, addition patterns of C86(16) and C86(17) chlorides have some features in common, owing to the close similarity in the cage structures of both isomers. The average energy of CCl bonds decreases with increasing number of attached Cl atoms.
Effect of surfactant on the dynamics of a crude oil droplet in water column: Experimental and numerical investigation
Authors: Rao Abhijit , Reddy Rupesh K. , Ehrenhauser Franz , Nandakumar Krishnaswamy , Thibodeaux Louis J. , Rao Dandina , Valsaraj Kalliat T.
Published: September 2014

In this study we have investigated the effect of surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), on the dynamics of a single crude oil droplet, rising in a quiescent water column. Experiments were conducted in a tank, in which an oil droplet was released into a stagnant water column through a nozzle. The droplets ranging from 0.3 to 0.85 cm were produced from three different sized nozzles. The shape adopted by the emanating droplets varied from spherical to oblate. SDS concentrations were varied from 0 to 750 ppm in water. The adsorption of surfactant reduced the interfacial tension at oil‐water interface which resulted in generation of smaller sized droplets at the nozzle and caused the droplet to flatten. Consequently, the rise velocities of droplets decreased.

A numerical model based on finite volume method was developed using commercial CFD package ANSYS Fluent®. The model employed volume of fluid method, suggested by Hirt and Nichols (Journal of Computational Physics 1981, 39, 201), with an interface reconstruction technique based on piecewise linear representation for tracking the oil‐water interface. The influence of surface tension on the droplet dynamics was captured by including Continuum Surface force (CSF) approach suggested by Brackbill, Kothe, and Zemach (Journal of Computational Physics 1992, 100, 335). The shape and rise velocities predicted from model were in good agreement with experimental data. The results from simulations were used, to analyze the wake structure and pressure distribution around the droplet. It was found that the smaller droplets which ascended in rectilinear path were associated with an axisymmetric wakes whereas larger and intermediate sized droplets in high SDS concentration wobbled as they ascended because of asymmetric wakes.
Development of a thermodynamic model of aqueous solution suited for foods and biological media. Part A: Prediction of activity coefficients in aqueous mixtures containing electrolytes
Authors: Toure Oumar , Audonnet Fabrice , Lebert André , Dussap Claude‐Gilles
Published: September 2014

In food and biological processes, aqueous complexes cover a wide diversity of species and the presence of several phases. The modelling of such processes must take into account these specificities, which require a generalization of the existing thermodynamic models of aqueous solutions. The chemical potential (the molar Gibbs free energy) of a given compound is an important variable to characterize the physical‐chemical properties at equilibrium. Its value depends on two parameters: the Gibbs free energy of formation and the activity coefficient. Both are linked to a chosen reference state. Then, the main thermodynamic modelling task consists in the prediction and/or the collection of formation properties data and in the development of a predictive model of activity coefficients.

This work introduces a new prediction tool of activity coefficients of electrolytes in {water‐salt} systems. This tool is based on an extension of the COSMO‐RS method towards the representation of the thermodynamic equilibrium properties of charged species. For this purpose, the long‐range interactions between ions are taken in account by a Pitzer‐Debye‐Hückel term. The resulting model called “COSMO‐RS‐PDHS” is then fully predictive.
A Novel Efficient Ligand in Anionic Polymerization at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Chen Bo , Wang Jiming , Shu Minze , Zou Bin , Guan Yong , Zheng Anna
Published: September 2014

This work confirmed a novel ligand in the anionic polymerization, lithium phenoxide, which helped to improve the controllability of the polymerization. The stability of n‐BuLi against THF at 0°C was effectively improved by adding lithium phenoxide. More than 60% n‐BuLi in THF was alive with the presence of lithium phenoxide after stirring at 0°C for 20 min, compared to 2% under same conditions but without lithium phenoxide. The propagation of polymerization of styrene (St) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) were retarded after adding lithium phenoxide. And by adding more than 10 fold lithium phenoxide, completed conversion was achieved in the polymerization of MMA in THF at 0°C. The lithium phenoxide showed both promoting and inhibiting effects in the polymerization of isoprene (Ip): it promoted the formation of 3,4‐structure, while mitigated the formation of 1,2‐ and 1,4‐structures. In general, the polymerization rate of Ip was promoted by lithium phenoxide.
A Facile and Practical Process for the Synthesis of Polysubstituted Furans from Alkynes Using Atmospheric Oxygen as a Terminal Oxidant
Authors: Xu Jingxiu , Song Xingdong , Zhao Jinwu
Published: September 2014

We present here a facile and practical procedure for the synthesis of tetrasubstituted furans from alkynes catalyzed by palladium acetate together with cupric acetate in acetic acid, using atmospheric oxygen as a terminal oxidant. Various internal aromatic alkynes afforded the target furans in satisfactory yield.
Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Conversion of Carbon Dioxide into Methane Using Cu2O/TiO2 Hollow Nanospheres
Authors: Bi Feng , Ehsan Muhammad Fahad , Liu Wei , He Tao
Published: September 2014

In the past few decades there has been a remarkable rise in the study of visible‐light photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) into value‐added chemicals such as methane (CH4) with water as reducing agent in order to prevent global warming and energy crisis. However, so far the conversion efficiency leaves much to be enhanced under sunlight irradiation. In this work, Cu2O hollow nanospheres were synthesized via soft‐template method and were combined with TiO2 through in‐situ hydrolysis of Ti(OBu)4 under sonication. The obtained photocatalysts of Cu2O and Cu2O/TiO2 composite were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, UV‐visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Compared to Cu2O hollow nanospheres, the Cu2O/TiO2 composite exhibited higher efficiency in photocatalytic reduction of CO2 into CH4 under visible‐light irradiation (λ⪖420 nm). This is because of the formation of a p‐n heterojunction in the composites, resulting in efficient suppression of recombination of the photogenerated electrons and holes as well as an improved stability of the catalyst and, thereby, the improved visible‐light photocatalytic activity.
Major Electrocardiographic Abnormalities and 25‐Hydroxy Vitamin D Deficiency: Insights from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey‐III
Authors: Tuliani Tushar A. , Shenoy Maithili , Deshmukh Abhishek , Rathod Ankit , Pant Sadip , Badheka Apurva O. , Levine Diane , Afonso Luis
Published: September 2014

Background

We explored the relationship between major electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities (mECG) and 25‐hydroxy (25‐OH) vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and the effect of mECG abnormalities on all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in a healthy cohort with 25‐OH vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency.

Hypothesis

Lower levels of serum 25‐OH vitamin D are associated with increased prevalence of mECG on resting ECG.

Methods

We identified 5108 individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey‐III. mECG abnormalities included: major Q‐QS wave abnormalities, ST depression/elevation, negative T waves, Wolff‐Parkinson‐White pattern, and ventricular conduction defect. Our cohort was divided into 3 groups based on 25‐OH vitamin D levels: Group 1 (referent): >40 ng/mL; group 2 (insufficient): ≥20.01 to ≤40 ng/mL; and group 3 (deficient): ≤20 ng/mL. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression models were built.

Results

The prevalence of major ECG abnormalities across 25‐OH vitamin D sufficiency, insufficiency, and deficiency was 5.9%, 11%, and 13 %, respectively (P = 0.01). VDD was an independent predictor of mECG abnormalities after adjusting for traditional risk factors (continuous variable odds ratio [OR]: 0.98, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.97‐0.99, P = 0.007; categorical variable group 3 vs group 1 OR: 2.36, 95% CI: 1.1‐5.12, P = 0.03). Baseline major ECG abnormalities were predictive of long‐term all‐cause (hazard ratio [HR]:1.52, 95% CI: 1.23‐1.89), composite cardiovascular (HR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.34‐2.15), cardiovascular (HR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.27‐2.12), and ischemic heart disease mortality (HR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.46‐2.69) in individuals with 25‐OH vitamin D levels ≤40 ng/mL.

Conclusions

VDD is associated with increased prevalence of major ECG abnormalities. Well‐structured trials are needed to assess progression/resolution of mECG abnormalities with vitamin D supplementation in deficient individuals.
Phase II, multicenter, randomized trial of CPX‐351 (cytarabine:daunorubicin) liposome injection versus intensive salvage therapy in adults with first relapse AML
Authors: Cortes Jorge E. , Goldberg Stuart L. , Feldman Eric J. , Rizzeri David A. , Hogge Donna E. , Larson Melissa , Pigneux Arnaud , Recher Christian , Schiller Gary , Warzocha Krzysztof , Kantarjian Hagop , Louie Arthur C. , Kolitz Jonathan E.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

CPX‐351 is a liposome‐encapsulated fixed‐molar‐ratio formulation of cytarabine and daunorubicin that exploits molar ratio–dependent drug‐drug synergy to enhance antileukemic efficacy.

METHODS

This phase II study randomized 125 patients 2:1 to CPX‐351 or investigators' choice of first salvage chemotherapy. Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in first relapse after initial Complete Remission (CR) lasting ≥1 month were stratified per the European Prognostic Index (EPI) into favorable, intermediate, and poor‐risk groups based on duration of first CR, cytogenetics, age, and transplant history. Control salvage treatment was usually based on cytarabine and anthracycline, often with 1 or more additional agents. Survival at 1 year was the primary efficacy end point.

RESULTS

Patient characteristics were well balanced between the 2 study arms. Improvements in efficacy outcomes were observed following CPX‐351, but did not meet prospectively defined statistical criteria for 1‐year survival improvement in the overall population. Subset analyses of the EPI‐defined poor‐risk strata demonstrated higher response rates (39.3% vs 27.6%) and improvements in event‐free survival (HR, 0.63; P = .08) and overall survival (HR, 0.55; P = .02). Also, 60‐day mortality was lower in the CPX‐351 study arm for poor‐risk patients (16.1% vs 24.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the data suggest possible improved outcomes in CPX‐351‐treated first relapse AML patients with EPI‐defined poor‐risk disease. Cancer 2015;121:234–42. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Polymerase ɛ (POLE) mutations in endometrial cancer: Clinical outcomes and implications for Lynch syndrome testing
Authors: Billingsley Caroline C. , Cohn David E. , Mutch David G. , Stephens Julie A. , Suarez Adrian A. , Goodfellow Paul J.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

DNA polymerase ɛ (POLE) exonuclease domain mutations characterize a subtype of endometrial cancer (EC) with a markedly increased somatic mutational burden. POLE‐mutant tumors were described as a molecular subtype with improved progression‐free survival by The Cancer Genome Atlas. In this study, the frequency, spectrum, prognostic significance, and potential clinical application of POLE mutations were investigated in patients with endometrioid EC.

METHODS

Polymerase chain reaction amplification and Sanger sequencing were used to test for POLE mutations in 544 tumors. Correlations between demographic, survival, clinicopathologic, and molecular features were investigated. Statistical tests were 2‐sided.

RESULTS

Thirty POLE mutations (5.6%) were identified. Mutations were associated with younger age (<60 years; P=.001). POLE mutations were detected in tumors with microsatellite stability (MSS) and microsatellite instability (MSI) at similar frequencies (5.9% and 5.2%, respectively) and were most common in tumors with MSI that lacked mutL homolog 1 (MLH1) methylation (P<.001). There was no association with progression‐free survival (hazard ratio, 0.22; P=.127).

CONCLUSIONS

The discovery that mutations occur with equal frequency in MSS and MSI tumors and are most frequent in MSI tumors lacking MLH1 methylation has implications for Lynch syndrome screening and mutation testing. The current results indicate that POLE mutations are associated with somatic mutation in DNA mismatch repair genes in a subset of tumors. The absence of an association between POLE mutation and progression‐free survival indicates that POLE mutation status is unlikely to be a clinically useful prognostic marker. However, POLE testing in MSI ECs could serve as a marker of somatic disease origin. Therefore, POLE tumor testing may be a valuable exclusionary criterion for Lynch syndrome gene testing. Cancer 2015;121:386–394. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Background and foreground interaction: Influence of complementary colors on the search task
Authors: Deeb Rasha , Ooms Kristien , Brychtová Alžbĕta , Van Eetvelde Veerle , De Maeyer Philippe
Published: September 2014

Labels are indispensable visual (communication) elements that completely deliver the geospatial message of maps. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of complementary colors between the map's background and text on the readability of cartographic texts and thus on the efficiency of the map user's search task. This is compared with the use of the “traditional” black labels on the corresponding colored backgrounds. Furthermore, a number of user characteristics, such as gender and expertise, are taken into account as well. The users' eye movements were registered to study their attentive behavior during the visual search task. In addition to the complement of the color's hue, the analyses were based on the difference in luminance, which could also affect the labels' readability. The difference between the black and colored label design was significantly different versus the eye‐tracking metrics. A correlation was found between the color difference and reaction time measurement and between the luminance difference and fixation duration. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 40, 437–445, 2015
Dynamic miRNA expression patterns during retinal regeneration in zebrafish: Reduced dicer or miRNA expression suppresses proliferation of Müller Glia‐derived neuronal progenitor cells
Authors: Rajaram Kamya , Harding Rachel L. , Bailey Travis , Patton James G. , Hyde David R.
Published: September 2014

Background: Adult zebrafish spontaneously regenerate their retinas after damage. Although a number of genes and signaling pathways involved in regeneration have been identified, the exact mechanisms regulating various aspects of regeneration are unclear. microRNAs (miRNAs) were examined for their potential roles in regulating zebrafish retinal regeneration. Results: To investigate the requirement of miRNAs during zebrafish retinal regeneration, we knocked down the expression of Dicer in retinas prior to light‐induced damage. Reduced Dicer expression significantly decreased the number of proliferating Müller glia‐derived neuronal progenitor cells during regeneration. To identify individual miRNAs with roles in neuronal progenitor cell proliferation, we collected retinas at different stages of light damage and performed small RNA high‐throughput sequencing. We identified subsets of miRNAs that were differentially expressed during active regeneration but returned to basal levels once regeneration was completed. We then knocked down five different miRNAs that increased in expression and assessed the effects on retinal regeneration. Reduction of miR‐142b and miR‐146a expression significantly reduced INL proliferation at 51h of light treatment, while knockdown of miR‐7a, miR‐27c, and miR‐31 expression significantly reduced INL proliferation at 72h of constant light. Conclusions: miRNAs exhibit dynamic expression profiles during retinal regeneration and are necessary for neuronal progenitor cell proliferation. Developmental Dynamics 243:1591–1605, 2014. © 2014 The Authors. Developmental Dynamics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Association of Anatomists
Guidelines for the nomenclature of genetic elements in tunicate genomes
Authors: Stolfi Alberto , Sasakura Yasunori , Chalopin Domitille , Satou Yutaka , Christiaen Lionel , Dantec Christelle , Endo Toshinori , Naville Magali , Nishida Hiroki , Swalla Billie J. , Volff Jean‐Nicolas , Voskoboynik Ayelet , Dauga Delphine , Lemaire Patrick
Published: September 2014

Tunicates are invertebrate members of the chordate phylum, and are considered to be the sister group of vertebrates. Tunicates are composed of ascidians, thaliaceans, and appendicularians. With the advent of inexpensive high‐throughput sequencing, the number of sequenced tunicate genomes is expected to rise sharply within the coming years. To facilitate comparative genomics within the tunicates, and between tunicates and vertebrates, standardized rules for the nomenclature of tunicate genetic elements need to be established. Here we propose a set of nomenclature rules, consensual within the community, for predicted genes, pseudogenes, transcripts, operons, transcriptional cis‐regulatory regions, transposable elements, and transgenic constructs. In addition, the document proposes guidelines for naming transgenic and mutant lines. genesis 53:65–78, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interference‐Free Electrochemical Detection of Nanomolar Dopamine Using Doped Polypyrrole and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Saha Suparna , Sarkar Priyabrata , Turner Anthony P. F.
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a new approach to detect dopamine in nanomolar range using an electrochemical sensor utilizing a composite made of chitosan‐stabilized silver nanoparticles and p‐toluene sulfonic acid‐doped ultrathin polypyrrole film. Studies included cyclic voltammogram, amperometry, differential pulse voltammetry and also investigation by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. A detection limit of 0.58 nM was achieved in the linear range 1×10−9 M to 1.2×10−7 M. High sensitivity towards DA, good reproducibility and long‐term stability have been demonstrated without interference from ascorbic acid, uric acid, epinephrine, L‐dopa, glucose. The sensing system was successfully applied for quantitative determination of dopamine in commercially available human blood serum.
An improved capillary electrophoresis method for in vitro monitoring of the challenging early steps of Aβ1–42 peptide oligomerization: Application to anti‐Alzheimer's drug discovery
Authors: Brinet Dimitri , Kaffy Julia , Oukacine Farid , Glumm Sarah , Ongeri Sandrine , Taverna Myriam
Published: September 2014

We report an improved CE method to monitor in vitro the self‐assembly of monomeric amyloid β‐peptide (42 amino acids amyloid β‐peptide, Aβ1–42) and in particular the crucial early steps involved in the formation of the neurotoxic oligomers. In order to start the kinetics from the beginning, sample preparation was optimized to provide samples containing exclusively the monomeric form. The CE method was also improved using a dynamic coating and by reducing the separation distance. Using this method, the disappearance of the monomer as well as the progressive formation of four species during the self‐assembly process can now be monitored and quantified over time. The hydrodynamic radius of the species present at the initial kinetics step was estimated around 1.8 nm by Taylor dispersion analysis while SDS‐PAGE analyses showed the predominance of the monomer. These results confirmed that the Aβ1–42 species present at this initial time was the monomer. Methylene blue, an anti‐Alzheimer disease candidate, was then evaluated. In spite of an oligomerization inhibition, the enhanced disappearance of the Aβ1–42 monomer provoked by methylene blue was demonstrated for the first time. This method, allowing the monomeric and smallest oligomeric species to be monitored, represents a new accurate and precise way to evaluate compounds for drug discovery.
Evaluation of potential cationic probes for the detection of proline and betaine
Authors: Kalsoom Umme , Breadmore Michael C. , Guijt Rosanne M. , Boyce Mary C.
Published: September 2014

Osmoregulants are the substances that help plants to tolerate environmental extremes such as salinity and drought. Proline and betaine are two of the most commonly studied osmoregulants. An indirect UV CE method has been developed for simultaneous determination of these osmoregulants. A variety of reported probes and compounds were examined as potential probes for the indirect detection of proline and betaine. Mobility and UV‐absorption properties highlighted sulfanilamide as a potential probe for indirect analysis of proline and betaine. Using 5 mM sulfanilamide at pH 2.2 with UV detection at 254 nm, proline and betaine were separated in less than 15 min. The LODs for proline and betaine were 11.6 and 28.3 μM, respectively. The developed method was successfully applied to quantification of these two osmoregulants in spinach and beetroot samples.
Recent advances on capillary columns, detectors, and two‐dimensional separations in capillary electrochromatography
Authors: Xue Yun , Gu Xue , Wang Yan , Yan Chao
Published: September 2014

As a typical miniaturized analytical technique, CEC has attracted much attention because of its low sample and solvent consumption, high efficiency, high selectivity, high resolution, and fast speed. In this review, we mainly cover the development of capillary columns and detection techniques in the CEC since 2009. Herein, three types of capillary columns, namely, open‐tubular capillary columns, monolithic columns and packed columns, and several types of detectors are reviewed in detail. Moreover, a 2D separation system based on CEC is also reported.
A micromixer with consistent mixing performance for a wide range of flow rates
Authors: Goovaerts Robert , Van Assche Tom , Sonck Marc , Denayer Joeri , Desmet Gert
Published: September 2014

A micromixer with consistent mixing performance for a wide range of flow rates is presented. The mixer makes use of internally moving elements, i.e. steel balls that are located in dedicated mixing chambers. Movement is induced by a rotating magnetic field. To get better insight in differences between active and passive mixing, we studied a mixer that can operate in both regimes. A mixing performance study for a range of flow rates along with pressure drop data is presented. The response of the moving elements in regard to the magnetic field is shown experimentally and shows the limitations of earlier modeling studies. Lastly, the estimated power input on the fluids was calculated and allows for a comparison with more well‐known convective‐type mixers.
Separation of natural antioxidants using PDMS electrophoresis microchips coupled with amperometric detection and reverse polarity
Authors: Lucca Bruno Gabriel , Lunte Susan Marie , Tomazelli Coltro Wendell Karlos , Ferreira Valdir Souza
Published: September 2014

This report describes the use of PDMS ME coupled with amperometric detection for rapid separation of ascorbic, gallic , ferulic, p‐coumaric acids using reverse polarity. ME devices were fabricated in PDMS by soft lithography and detection was accomplished using an integrated carbon fiber working electrode aligned in the end‐channel configuration. Separation and detection parameters were investigated and the best conditions were obtained using a run buffer consisting of 5 mM phosphate buffer (pH 6.9) and a detection voltage of 1.0 V versus Ag/AgCl reference electrode. All compounds were separated within 70 s using gated injection mode with baseline resolution and separation efficiencies between 1200 and 9000 plates. Calibration curves exhibited good linearity and the LODs achieved ranged from 1.7 to 9.7 μM. The precision for migration time and peak height provided maximum values of 4% for the intrachip studies. Lastly, the analytical method was successfully applied for the analysis of ascorbic and gallic acids in commercial beverage samples. The results achieved using ME coupled with amperometric detection were in good agreement with the values provided by the supplier. Based on the data reported here, the proposed method shows suitability to be applied for the routine analysis of beverage samples.
Fire structural modelling and testing of welded aluminium plate
Authors: Chevali V.S. , Summers P. , Cholewa N. , Afaghi Khatibi A. , Feih S. , Lattimer B.Y. , Case S.W. , Mouritz A.P.
Published: September 2014

The structural response of welded aluminium in fire is computationally and experimentally analysed. A finite element (FE) model is developed to compute the deformation and failure of gas metal arc welded (GMAW) aluminium plate under combined loading and one‐sided unsteady‐state heating representative of fire. The FE model predicts the deformation of the weld, heat‐affected zone and parent plate based on the combined effects of elastic softening, plastic softening and creep. The effects of residual stresses in the weld and thermal expansion on the deformation response are also analysed. The numerical accuracy of the model is rigorously evaluated using a large amount of deformation and failure stress data obtained from fire structural tests performed with welded AA5083–AA5083, AA5083–AA6061 and AA6061–AA6061 plates. Good agreement is found between results computed with the FE model and experimental testing. The results reveal that GMAW welds do not reduce the structural performance of aluminium in fire unless the maximum temperature remains below the recrystallisation temperature. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Quantile Regression Approach to Equity Premium Prediction
Authors: Meligkotsidou Loukia , Panopoulou Ekaterini , Vrontos Ioannis D. , Vrontos Spyridon D.
Published: September 2014

We propose a quantile regression approach to equity premium forecasting. Robust point forecasts are generated from a set of quantile forecasts using both fixed and time‐varying weighting schemes, thereby exploiting the entire distributional information associated with each predictor. Further gains are achieved by incorporating the forecast combination methodology into our quantile regression setting. Our approach using a time‐varying weighting scheme delivers statistically and economically significant out‐of‐sample forecasts relative to both the historical average benchmark and the combined predictive mean regression modeling approach. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecasting Online Auctions via Self‐Exciting Point Processes
Authors: Chan Ngai Hang , Li Zehang Richard , Yau Chun Yip
Published: September 2014

Modeling online auction prices is a popular research topic among statisticians and marketing analysts. Recent research mainly focuses on two directions: one is the functional data analysis (FDA) approach, in which the price–time relationship is modeled by a smooth curve, and the other is the point process approach, which directly models the arrival process of bidders and bids. In this paper, a novel model for the bid arrival process using a self‐exciting point process (SEPP) is proposed and applied to forecast auction prices. The FDA and point process approaches are linked together by using functional data analysis technique to describe the intensity of the bid arrival point process. Using the SEPP to model the bid arrival process, many stylized facts in online auction data can be captured. We also develop a simulation‐based forecasting procedure using the estimated SEPP intensity and historical bidding increment. In particular, prediction interval for the terminal price of merchandise can be constructed. Applications to eBay auction data of Harry Potter books and Microsoft Xbox show that the SEPP model provides more accurate and more informative forecasting results than traditional methods. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Quasi 2D Model of a High Temperature Polymer Fuel Cell for the Interpretation of Impedance Spectra
Authors: Baricci A. , Zago M. , Casalegno A.
Published: September 2014

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is a widely recognized tool for in situ diagnostics of polymer fuel cells. The main drawback of this measurement is that it includes several features, which are not directly related to physical phenomena and the interpretation is often difficult. In this work, a physical quasi 2D model is applied to experimental data of a high temperature proton exchange fuel cell based on polybenzimidazole doped with phosphoric acid. The quasi 2D approach is applied in order to decrease the computational cost of the model, without decreasing the prediction capability. The model is able to simulate polarization curves and impedance spectra and it is fitted on six polarization data and impedance spectra recorded in different conditions. The model is able to capture the main features of a typical spectrum of a polybenzimidazole based high temperature polymer fuel cell. A sensitivity analysis is also performed on the model parameters to show the effect of each physical parameter.
Astroglial cell subtypes in the cerebella of normal adults, elderly adults, and patients with Alzheimer's disease: A histological and immunohistochemical comparison
Authors: Álvarez María‐Isabel , Rivas Luís , Lacruz César , Toledano Adolfo
Published: September 2014

Objectives and experimental design Cerebella of young adults, elderly adults, and patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) (with and without cerebellar amyloid deposits) were studied by Golgi staining and glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP) immunocytochemical methods. Observations Three subtypes of Golgi epithelial cells and nine subtypes of stellate neuroglia (both normal and hypertrophic) were defined by their morphology, their GFAP‐reactivity, their specific location in the cortical layers, and their responses in senility and AD. The GFAP immunoreaction was subtype specific. In aged and AD cerebella, different morphological and GFAP‐immunoreactive subtype‐specific changes were observed: in the white matter, the subtypes were always GFAP‐immunopositive, but in the grey matter some astroglial subtypes showed a variable or no increase in GFAP staining. The astrocytes at the limits of the granule cell layer showed more and longer processes. Variations were seen in one or more folia, involving one or more subtypes and affecting different numbers of cells of each subtype. No clear differences were seen in glial reactivity between beta‐amyloid positive and β‐amyloid (Aβ) negative AD cerebella. No important relationships were found between Aβ deposits. In aged and AD cerebella, different subtypes expressed new proteins (APP, calretinin). Conclusions The existence of different glial subtypes in different locations suggests they have different functions. General and local variations in these subtypes suggest that both general and local induction factors must also exist. The responses of glial cells to as‐yet undefined stimuli might lead to general or local neuronal changes important in senility and the pathogenic course of AD. GLIA 2015;63:287–312
Prospective validation of Baveno V definitions and criteria for failure to control bleeding in portal hypertension
Authors: Ahn Sun Young , Park Soo Young , Tak Won Young , Lee Yu Rim , Kang Eun Jeong , Park Jung Gil , Lee Won Kee , Lee Kwan , Kweon Young Oh
Published: September 2014

New definitions and criteria were released at the Baveno V consensus meeting. The purposes of this study were to verify Baveno V definitions and criteria for failure to control bleeding and to determine the usefulness of the combined use of the Adjusted Blood Requirement Index [ABRI: (number of blood units)/(final hematocrit‐initial hematocrit)+0.01] with Baveno V criteria. In all, 246 consecutive liver cirrhosis patients with acute bleeding associated with portal hypertension were enrolled prospectively between January 2010 and October 2012. The treatment outcome on day 5 was assessed by endoscopy. For the ABRI calculation, two hematocrit levels were used as the initial hematocrit: the first level measured upon patient arrival (ABRI‐A) and the lowest level measured before transfusion (ABRI‐B). Treatment failures were identified in 53 patients, of whom 24 died. Based on repeated endoscopic findings, 29 patients were identified as treatment failures, while according to Baveno V criteria, 47 patients were regarded as treatment failures. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of Baveno V criteria was 0.906, and the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio were 83.0%, 98.4%, 93.6%, 95.5%, 53.41, and 0.17, respectively. The AUROC of Baveno V criteria was significantly greater than those of Baveno IV (P = 0.0001) and Baveno II/III (P < 0.0001) criteria. Adding ABRI‐A or ‐B to Baveno V criteria resulted in a significant reduction of the AUROC (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The Baveno V criteria are good predictors of treatment failure of early‐stage acute gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with portal hypertension, while the addition of ARBI does not improve the prediction accuracy of the outcome of bleeding. (Hepatology 2015;61:1033–1040)
Dissociation of spatial representations within hippocampal region CA3
Authors: Marrone Diano F. , Satvat Elham , Odintsova Irina V. , Gheidi Ali
Published: September 2014

Classic models of the hippocampus uniformly ascribe pattern completion to CA3, but recent data suggest CA3c (enclosed by the dentate gyrus) may act in a manner more consistent with the dentate and aid in pattern separation. The ideal test for functional distinction within CA3, however, is to compare the responses in these regions in the same animal in multiple contexts. To accomplish this, animals visited two contexts with varying degrees of similarity and the pattern of repeated Arc expression was examined across the pyramidal cell layer. Under conditions of partial cue change, responses in CA3c are far more distinct than CA3a/b, consistent with evidence for functional diversity along the transverse axis of CA3. These data add to the mounting evidence that “classic” roles ascribed to CA3 in learning and memory require re‐evaluation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impacts of regional warming on long‐term hypolimnetic anoxia and dissolved oxygen concentration in a deep lake
Authors: Ito Yuji , Momii Kazuro
Published: September 2014

Although few reports have described long‐term continuous anoxia in aquatic systems, Lake Ikeda in Japan experienced such conditions in the hypolimnion from 1990 to 2010. The present study aimed to assess temporal fluctuations in the lake's thermal stability from 1978 to 2011 to understand the influence of regional climate change on hypolimnetic anoxia in this lake. Because complete vertical mixing, which supplies dissolved oxygen (DO) to the hypolimnion, potentially occurs on February, we calculated the Schmidt stability index (S) in February and compared it with hypolimnetic DO dynamics. Vertical water temperature profiles were calculated using a one‐dimensional model, and calculated temperatures and meteorological data were used to analyse annual fluctuations in water temperatures, thermocline depth, meteorological variables and S. We estimated that mean annual air and volume‐weighted water temperatures increased by 0.028 and 0.033 °C year−1, respectively, from 1978 to 2011. Between 1986 and 1990, S and water temperature increased abruptly, probably due to a large upwards trend in air temperature (+0.239 °C year−1). We hypothesize that a mixing regime that lacked overturn took effect at this time and that this regime lasted until 2011, when S was particularly small. These results demonstrate that abrupt climate warming in the late 1980s likely triggered the termination of complete mixing and caused the 21‐year period of successive anoxia in Lake Ikeda. We conclude that the lake response to a rapid shift in regional climate conditions was a key factor in changing the hypolimnetic water environment and that thermal stability in winter is a critical environmental factor controlling the mixing regime and anoxic conditions in deep lakes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.