bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biotic interactions of Lentinus edodeds (Berk.) Sing. with fungi which occur the most frequently in its cultures
Authors: Brodziak Łukasz
Published: September 2014

The interaction of the examined fungi was measured as the degree of encirclement of fungal colonies in two-organism cultures, the width of the inhibition yone and the evaluation single species cultures. Three species strongly limited the growth of Lentinus edodes colonies. In the other cases this fungus dominated due to intensive growth of the mycelium.
The biometrical-experimental examinations of fungi of Peronospora genus, affecting the representatives of Papaver L.
Authors: Wrońska Barbara
Published: September 2014

The paper presents the results of biometrical-experimental examinations of fungi of Peronospora genus which infect the representatives of Papaver. The investigations seemed to show that on all of three investigated host plants (Papaver argemone, P. rhoeas I P. somniferum) there was only one species of Peronospora.
Mushrooms as a source of substances with antiviral activity
Authors: Kandefer-Szerszeń Martyna , Kawecki Zbigniew , Sałata Bogusław , Witek Maria
Published: September 2014

Water extracts the fructifications of 56 species of fungi were examined as a source of antiviral substances with activity against VS and vaccinia viruses. Extracts from 16 fungal species exhibited the antiviral activity. Water extracts from Boletus edulis active against vaccinia virus and extract from Armillariella mellea active against VS virus are particularly worth nothing. Both of them in applied concentrations were not toxic in chick embryo fibroblasts tissue culture.
Comparison of Myxomycetes of the forest in Skarszyn and of the beech reserve in Muszkowice
Authors: Stojanowska Wanda
Published: September 2014

In the years 1875-187S observations of Myxamycetes in the forest communities ot Skarszyn and Muszkowice were carried out. On this area 67 species were collected altogether. For the both observed areas 35 species are common. Almost half of noted Myxamycetes appears in one of two investigated objects (in Skarszyn 18 species, in Muszkowice 14 species).
Attempts to use coloured reactions of the EP reagent for taxonomic purposes in fungi of genus Lactarius
Authors: Rymkiewicz Apoloniusz
Published: September 2014

Species of fungi in genus Lactarius were tested for reaction with Stahl's EP —reagent. The reagent turned blue, green, yellow, violet or brown. This can be used for taxonomic purposes.
Isolation and some properties of extracellular amylases from Fusarium martii var. minus f.2
Authors: Boguszewska Joanna
Published: September 2014

α-amylase and glucoamylase were isolated from the liquid culture medium of Fusarium martii. At 10-3 M concentrations PCMB inhibited the activity of both enzymes, which indicated that they require SH groups for enzymatic activity, α-amylase was also inhibited by DFP at 10-3 M. One may thus assume that serine is present in the active center of the examined amylase.
Effect of moulding on the changes in chemical composition of tabacco leaves
Authors: Florczak Krystyna
Published: September 2014

The process of moulding caused by the fungi: Aspergillus repens (Cda.) De Bart, Aspergillus flavus Link, Aspergillus ochraceus Wilhelm, Penicillium expansum (Link) Thom, VPenicillium commune Thom and Penicillum spinulosum Tom influenced the decrease in soluble carbohydrate content with the simulataneous increase in the percentage of specific protein. It had an effect on the deterioration of technological and taste values of raw tabacco.
Fungi of Delhi. XII. Chaetomium lawransamesii sp. n.
Authors: Mukerji K. G. , Khanna M.
Published: September 2014

Chaetomium lawransamesii has been described as a new species. This is characterised in possessing bigger fusiform ascospores and myceloid terminal hair on its perithecia. During our studies on the ecology and taxonomy of plant surface fungi, we have isolated several forms isolated. This paper describes a no w species of Chaetomium which differes from all the known species possessing fusiform ascospores (L o d h a 1964; Rai, Mukerji 1962). It has characteristic long myceloid hairs on its body. This form has been named as C. lawransamesii in honour of late Dr Lawrence M. Ames.
Lichens of erratic block rocks of Podlaskie Uplands
Authors: Zielińska Janina
Published: September 2014

On post-glacier granite rocks of Podlaskie Uplands a rather abundant-lichen flora characteristic for the lowlands is present. 69 species of lichens have been found among the rare ones in the investigated region are Parmelia sorediala, Thelocarpon laureri, Bacidia albescens. Three associations have been distinguished: Lecideetum crustulatae, Parmelietum conspersae, Physcietum dubiae.
Effect of foliar application of urea on leaf surface mycoflora of mustard and barley
Authors: Singh D. B. , Rai Bharat
Published: September 2014

The number of fungi/cm2 leaf increased insignificantly in the first sampling on treared musttard leaves and in the first and second samplings on barley leaves. A significant decrease in the number of fungi was noted in the rest of the samplings. A little variation in the number of species was recorder between the control and treated leaf samples. Acrophialophora fusispora, Aureobasidium pullulas, Epicoccum nigrum, Fusarium chlamydosporum, Penicillium citrinum and P. rubrum exhibited favourable effect of urea and thus their percentage distribution increased on the treated leaves.
À propos du Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en musique, médias et technologie (cirmmt) : entretien avec Marcelo Wanderley
Authors: Boutard Guillaume
Published: September 2014

Le Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en musique, médias et technologie (cirmmt) a été créé en 2000. Marcelo Wanderley, son directeur actuel, nous présente les enjeux de cette institution. À travers différents projets, il nous décrit les différents axes de recherche du cirmmt, et sa structure en adaptation constante aux évolutions des domaines et des structures académiques. Dans un contexte foncièrement interdisciplinaire soutenu par cette mobilité et ce dynamisme, les projets évoqués nous entraînent vers les terrains des nouveaux instruments, de la recherche d’information musicale, de la cognition et de la perception, de la pédagogie et des pratiques musicales étendues.
Perspectives on use of oral and vaginal antiretrovirals for HIV prevention: the VOICE‐C qualitative study in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: van der Straten Ariane , Stadler Jonathan , Luecke Ellen , Laborde Nicole , Hartmann Miriam , Montgomery Elizabeth T ,   VOICE‐C Study Team
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Antiretroviral (ARV)‐based pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising new HIV prevention strategy. However, variable levels of adherence have yielded mixed results across several PrEP trials and populations. It is not clear how taking ARV – traditionally used for HIV treatment – is perceived and how that perception may affect the use of these products as preventives. We explored the views and experiences of VOICE participants, their male partners and community members regarding the use of ARV as PrEP in the VOICE trial and the implications of these shared meanings for adherence.

Methods

VOICE‐C was a qualitative ancillary study conducted at the Johannesburg site of VOICE, a multisite, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled randomised trial testing tenofovir gel, oral tenofovir and oral Truvada® for HIV PrEP. We interviewed 102 randomly selected female VOICE participants, 22 male partners and 40 community members through in‐depth interviews, serial ethnography, or focus group discussions. All interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, translated and coded thematically for analysis.

Results

The concept of ARV for prevention was understood to varying degrees across all study groups. A majority of VOICE participants understood that the products contained ARV, more so for the tablets than for the gel. Although participants knew they were HIV negative, ARV was associated with illness. Male partners and community members echoed these sentiments, highlighting confusion between treatment and prevention. Concerned that they would be mistakenly identified as HIV positive, VOICE participants often concealed use of or hid their study products. This occasionally led to relationship conflicts or early trial termination. HIV stigma and its association with ARV, especially the tablets, was articulated in rumour and gossip in the community, the workplace and the household. Although ARV were recognised as potent and beneficial medications, transforming the AIDS body from sickness to health, they were regarded as potentially harmful for those uninfected.

Conclusions

VOICE participants and others in the trial community struggled to conceptualise the idea of using ARV for prevention. This possibly influenced willingness to adopt ARV‐based prevention in the VOICE clinical trial. Greater investments should be made to increase community understanding of ARV for prevention and to mitigate pervasive HIV stigma.
Divergent mechanisms regulate conserved cardiopharyngeal development and gene expression in distantly related ascidians
Authors: Stolfi Alberto , Lowe Elijah K , Racioppi Claudia , Ristoratore Filomena , Brown C Titus , Swalla Billie J , Christiaen Lionel
Published: September 2014

Ascidians present a striking dichotomy between conserved phenotypes and divergent genomes: embryonic cell lineages and gene expression patterns are conserved between distantly related species. Much research has focused on Ciona or Halocynthia spp. but development in other ascidians remains poorly characterized. In this study, we surveyed the multipotent myogenic B7.5 lineage in Molgula spp. Comparisons to the homologous lineage in Ciona revealed identical cell division and fate specification events that result in segregation of larval, cardiac, and pharyngeal muscle progenitors. Moreover, the expression patterns of key regulators are conserved, but cross-species transgenic assays uncovered incompatibility, or ‘unintelligibility’, of orthologous cis-regulatory sequences between Molgula and Ciona. These sequences drive identical expression patterns that are not recapitulated in cross-species assays. We show that this unintelligibility is likely due to changes in both cis- and trans-acting elements, hinting at widespread and frequent turnover of regulatory mechanisms underlying otherwise conserved aspects of ascidian embryogenesis.
Linking Abusive Supervision to Employees’ OCBs and Turnover Intentions: The role of a Psychological Contract Breach and Perceived Organisational Support
Authors: Ahmed Ezaz , Muchiri Michael
Published: September 2014

This conceptual paper proposes pathways through which abusive supervisor behaviour influences employee outcomes. Specifically, we propose that abusive supervision will directly influence employee citizenship behaviours and turnover intentions. Further, abusive behaviours will indirectly influence employee outcomes through employees’ perceptions of organisational support and psychological contract breach. Based on the literature review, the paper proposes a conceptual framework that is useful in explaining the interplay between abusive supervision, psychological contract breach, perceived organisational support, citizenship behaviours and turnover intentions. Finally, the paper outlines steps to advance organisational theory with regard to the effects of abusive supervision on employee outcomes.

Keywords: Abusive supervision, Leadership, Psychological Contract Breach, Perceived Organisational Support, Citizenship Behaviours, Turnover Intentions

To cite this document: Ezaz Ahmed and Michael Muchiri, "Linking Abusive Supervision to Employees’ OCBs and Turnover Intentions: The role of a Psychological Contract Breach and Perceived Organisational Support", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.10, No.2, pp.147-164, 2014.

Permanent link to this document:
http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.11518
Australian Retail Banking Customers’ Perceptions of Time in A Service Recovery Process
Authors: Valenzuela Fredy-Roberto , Cooksey Ray
Published: September 2014

Results of past studies related to the role of time in service recovery processes have not been conclusive. The present study seeks to address this gap in the literature. In particular, the investigation is aimed at understanding how much time customers expect banks to take in solving their complaints, as well as how much personal time and effort customers are willing to invest during the process of addressing a complaint. To address these objectives, 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with Australian retail banking customers. Results demonstrated that a majority of customers expected banks to resolve their complaints within 24 hours, and that the amount of personal time and effort they were willing to invest in the process of complaining was dependent on the magnitude of the service failure. The investigation also identified four distinct groups of customers in relation to the personal time and effort they were willing to invest in the complaint process: non-complainers, convenience-oriented solution seekers, control seekers and desperate solution seekers.

Keywords: Service Recovery, Service Failures, Time Perception, Complaining Behaviour, Retail banking, Qualitative Methods

To cite this document: Fredy-Roberto Valenzuela and Ray Cooksey, "Australian Retail Banking Customers’ Perceptions of Time in A Service Recovery Process", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.10, No.2, pp.123-146, 2014.

Permanent link to this document:
http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.11641
Leisure Activities of Female Foreign Workers in Taiwan: Transnationalism, Feminism and Work Arrangements
Authors: Tsai Chiung-Tzu Lucetta
Published: September 2014

The number of foreign workers in Taiwan is increasing. As a result, such workers’ leisure activities outside of the workplace have become a strong area for research on work and leisure. In terms of transnationalism, feminism, and work arrangements, this study proposes to examine the leisure activities of female foreign workers. The aim of the study has three aspects: first, to examine to what extent transnationalism and feminism operate to influence the leisure activities of female foreign workers, respectively; second, to explore how work arrangements influence the leisure activities of female foreign workers and their managerial implications; and third, to understand if public and private leisure provisions are enough to meet the demands of female foreign workers. The findings of this research will not only contribute to the formation of the public and private leisure provisions and the management of female foreign workers, but will also fill the gap in research on ‘work and leisure.’

Keywords: Leisure, Foreign Workers, Transnationalism, Feminism, Work Arrangements

To cite this document: Chiung-Tzu Lucetta Tsai, "Leisure Activities of Female Foreign Workers in Taiwan: Transnationalism, Feminism and Work Arrangements", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.10, No.2, pp.107-122, 2014.

Permanent link to this document:
http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.11666
Does Style of Thinking Make Differences in Consumer Judgments on Brand Extensions?
Authors: Chang Shin-Shin
Published: September 2014

Category similarity and benefit similarity have been identified as two important factors that determine a brand extension’s success. However, which of these two factors has a greater impact on consumers’ evaluations has received little attention. This study posits that the relative advantages are moderated by people’s style of thinking – holistic versus analytic. Specifically, analytic (holistic) thinkers have more favorable evaluations about benefit-similarity (category-similarity) extensions than category-similarity (benefit-similarity) extensions. Results from an experimental design supported this proposed hypotheses. Keywords: Style of Thinking, Culture, Brand Extension, Benefit Similarity, Category Similarity To cite this document: Shin-Shin Chang, "Does Style of Thinking Make Differences in Consumer Judgments on Brand Extensions?", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.10, No.2, pp.165-178, 2014. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.12002
Precious‐Metal‐Free Nanocatalysts for Highly Efficient Hydrogen Production from Hydrous Hydrazine
Authors: Wang Jun , Li Yang , Zhang Yu
Published: September 2014

Hydrous hydrazine (H2NNH2·H2O) has generally been considered a promising hydrogen storage carrier because of inherent advantages such as its high hydrogen content and easy recharging as a liquid. Unfortunately, the decomposition of hydrous hydrazine to H2 is terribly sluggish and/or not entirely favored—a competing decomposition to ammonia may be preferred. This has been the case using noble‐metal catalysts and using non‐precious‐metal‐based catalysts, even at elevated temperatures. To overcome this challenge, non‐precious‐metal‐based Cu@Fe5Ni5 core@shell nanocatalysts are prepared using an in situ seeding‐growth approach. Unexpectedly, the catalyst exerts 100% H2 selectivity and excellent activity and stability toward the complete decomposition of hydrous hydrazine, which is due to the synergistic effect of the core@shell structure. These promising results will certainly promote the effective application of hydrous hydrazine as a potential hydrogen storage material.
Comparative Study of the N‐Type Doping Efficiency in Solution‐processed Fullerenes and Fullerene Derivatives
Authors: Rossbauer Stephan , Müller Christian , Anthopoulos Thomas D.
Published: September 2014

Molecular doping of organic semiconductors and devices represents an enabling technology for a range of emerging optoelectronic applications. Although p‐type doping has been demonstrated in a number of organic semiconductors, efficient n‐type doping has proven to be particularly challenging. Here, n‐type doping of solution‐processed C60, C70, [60]PCBM, [70]PCBM and indene‐C60 bis‐adduct by 1H‐benzimidazole (N‐DMBI) is reported. The doping efficiency for each system is assessed using field‐effect measurements performed under inert atmosphere at room temperature in combination with optical absorption spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. The highest doping efficiency is observed for C60 and C70 and electron mobilities up to ≈2 cm2/Vs are obtained. Unlike in substituted fullerenes‐based transistors where the electron mobility is found to be inversely proportional to N‐DMBI concentration, C60 and C70 devices exhibit a characteristic mobility increase by approximately an order of magnitude with increasing dopant concentration up to 1 mol%. Doping also appears to significantly affect the bias stability of the transistors. The work contributes towards understanding of the molecular doping mechanism in fullerene‐based semiconductors and outlines a simple and highly efficient approach that enables significant improvement in device performance through facile chemical doping.
Sequential Biocatalytic Aldol Reactions in Multistep Asymmetric Synthesis: Pipecolic Acid, Piperidine and Pyrrolidine (Homo)Iminocyclitol Derivatives from Achiral Building Blocks
Authors: Soler Anna , Garrabou Xavier , Hernández Karel , Gutiérrez Mariana L. , Busto Eduardo , Bujons Jordi , Parella Teodor , Joglar Jesús , Clapés Pere
Published: September 2014

A multistep chemoenzymatic synthesis for stereodiverse polyhydroxypipecolic acid analogues, homoiminocyclitols and polyhydroxylated piperidine and pyrrolidine derivatives combining glycine‐dependent aldolases and both D‐fructose‐6‐phosphate aldolase (FSA) or dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP)‐dependent aldolases is presented. The methodology allowed the preparation of known and innovative imine‐derived molecules with a great structural diversity from simple achiral substrates. The strategy consisted of two key aldol addition steps: a first aldol addition of glycine to dimethoxyacetaldehyde catalyzed by L‐ and D‐glycine aldolases and a second aldol addition of DHAP, dihydroxyacetone, hydroxyacetone or glycolaldehyde using FSA or DHAP‐dependent aldolases as catalysts to a conveniently transformed aldol adduct from the first aldol addition. Catalytic reductive amination on the aldol adducts rendered the polyhydroxypipecolic acid analogues, (homo)iminocyclitols and polyhydroxylated pyrrolidine iminocyclitols. The reported strategy is thus designed to create up to five new stereogenic centers in three steps, four of them being controlled in two enzymatic reactions. Moreover, it allowed the installation of diverse functionalities in the molecules. This was possible by taking the full advantage of using aldolases in a multistep approach by virtue of their stereocomplementarity, stereoselectivity and broad substrate tolerance.

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Direct Nickel‐Catalyzed Amination of Phenols via CO Bond Activation using 2,4,6‐Trichloro‐1,3,5‐triazine (TCT) as Reagent
Authors: Iranpoor Nasser , Panahi Farhad
Published: September 2014

2,4,6‐Trichloro‐1,3,5‐triazine (TCT) was used as an efficient and mild reagent for the direct nickel‐catalyzed amination of phenols. This reagent can promote amination of phenols via the activation of the phenolic CO bond. In this simple protocol, the in situ generated aryl CO electrophile (Ar‐O‐TCT) reacts with the desired amine to produce the corresponding arylamine in the presence of a nickel catalyst. This strategy is general for a variety of substrates to give the related arylamines in moderate to good yields. This method was also applied for nickel‐catalyzed amination of phenols for the synthesis of primary aromatic amines using the reaction of Ar‐O‐TCT and ammonium carbonate under mild reaction conditions. With this method, phenolic compounds are converted to their corresponding anilines under mild conditions.

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Palladium@Cerium(IV) Oxide‐Catalyzed Oxidative Synthesis of N‐(2‐Pyridyl)indoles via CH Activation Reaction
Authors: Chen Jianbin , He Lin , Natte Kishore , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: September 2014

An interesting protocol for the synthesis of N‐(2‐pyridyl)indoles based on a palladium@cerium(IV) oxide‐catalyzed oxidative CH activation reaction has been developed. By using alkynes and N‐phenylpyridin‐2‐amines as substrates, the corresponding indoles were isolated in moderate to excellent yields. Notably, palladium@cerium(IV) oxide showed better activity compared with other tested commercially available heterogeneous catalysts and only catalytic amounts of copper(II) salt and air as co‐oxidant were required here.

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Intermolecular Conjugate Addition of Pyrroloindoline and Furoindoline Radicals to α,β‐Unsaturated EnonesviaPhotoredox Catalysis
Authors: Zhou Shupeng , Zhang Deliang , Sun Yu , Li Ruofan , Zhang Wenhao , Li Ang
Published: September 2014

We have developed an intermolecular conjugate addition of 3a‐pyrroloindoline/furoindoline radicals to α,β‐unsaturated enones, through visible‐light photoredox catalysis. Ir(ppy)2(dtbbpy) PF6was found to be an effective promoter to initiate this reaction from readily available 3a‐bromopyrroloindolines/furoindolines. This method was exploited to prepare a series of indole terpenoid‐like compounds of potential biological interest.

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Nanospheres, Nanotubes, Toroids, and Gels with Controlled Macroscopic Chirality
Authors: Arias Sandra , Freire Félix , Quiñoá Emilio , Riguera Ricardo
Published: September 2014

The interaction of a highly dynamic poly(aryl acetylene) (poly‐1) with Li+, Na+, and Ag+ leads to macroscopically chiral supramolecular nanospheres, nanotubes, toroids, and gels. With Ag+, nanospheres with M helicity and tunable sizes are generated, which complement those obtained from the same polymer with divalent cations. With Li+ or Na+, poly‐1 yields chiral nanotubes, gels, or toroids with encapsulating properties and M helicity. Right‐handed supramolecular structures can be obtained by using the enantiomeric polymer. The interaction of poly‐1 with Na+ produces nanostructures whose helicity is highly dependent on the solvation state of the cation. Therefore, structures with either of the two helicities can be prepared from the same polymer by manipulation of the cosolvent. Such chiral nanotubes, toroids, and gels have previously not been obtained from helical polymer–metal complexes. Chiral nanospheres made of poly(aryl acetylene) that were previously assembled with metal(II) species can now be obtained with metal(I) species.
Radical CH Functionalization of Heteroarenes under Electrochemical Control
Authors: O'Brien Alexander G. , Maruyama Akinobu , Inokuma Yasuhide , Fujita Makoto , Baran Phil S. , Blackmond Donna G.
Published: September 2014

Electrochemical reactions are shown to be effective for the CH functionalization of a number of heterocyclic substrates that are recalcitrant to conventional peroxide radical initiation conditions. Monitoring reaction progress under electrochemical conditions provides mechanistic insight into the CH functionalization of a series of heterocycles of interest in medicinal chemistry.
Functionalized cellulose‐supported triphenylphosphine and its application in Suzuki cross‐coupling reactions
Authors: Wang Xiaoxia , Xu Yanjun , Wang Fang , Wei Yuping
Published: September 2014

A new heterogeneous cellulose tagged triphenylphosphine (Cell‐OPPh3) was synthesized and subsequently coordinated with Pd(OAc)2 to form a cellulose‐supported triphenylphosphine palladium complex (Cell‐OPPh3‐Pd). Cell‐OPPh3 and the corresponding palladium complex were fully characterized by TGA, SEM, TEM, and NMR analysis. Results of catalytic activity experiments indicate that the Cell‐OPPh3‐Pd complex can efficiently catalyze Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions of aryl halides with arylboronic acids at mild reaction conditions. The coupling products can be obtained in good to excellent yields (up to 98%). The work‐up procedure is simple and the catalyst could be easily recovered by filtration, and then reused in next run. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41427.
1,2,4‐Benzothiadiazine‐1,1‐dioxide Derivatives as Ionotropic Glutamate Receptor Ligands: Synthesis and Structure–Activity Relationships
Authors: Varano Flavia , Catarzi Daniela , Colotta Vittoria , Squarcialupi Lucia , Matucci Rosanna
Published: September 2014

Ionotropic glutamate receptor (iGluR) modulators, specially AMPA receptor antagonists, are potential tools for numerous therapeutic applications in neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, epilepsy, chronic pain, and neuropathology ensuing from cerebral ischemia or cardiac arrest. In this work, the synthesis and binding affinities at the Gly/NMDA, AMPA, and kainic acid (KA) receptors of a new series of 1,2,4‐benzothiadiazine‐1,1‐dioxide derivatives are reported. The results show that 1,2,4‐benzothiadiazine‐1,1‐dioxide is a new scaffold for obtaining iGluR ligands. Moreover, this work has led us to the 7‐(3‐formylpyrrol‐1‐yl)‐6‐trifluoromethyl substituted compound 7, which displays the highest AMPA receptor affinity and high selectivity versus the Gly/NMDA (90‐fold) and KA (46‐fold) receptors.
Expanding the mutational spectrum associated to neural tube defects: Literature revision and description of novel VANGL1 mutations
Authors: Merello E. , Mascelli S. , Raso A. , Piatelli G. , Consales A. , Cama A. , Kibar Z. , Capra V. , Marco Patrizia De
Published: September 2014

Background

Neural Tube Defects (NTD) are a common class of birth defects that occur in approximately 1 in 1000 live births. Both genetic and nongenetic factors are involved in the etiology of NTD. Planar cell polarity (PCP) genes plays a critical role in neural tube closure in model organisms.

Studies in humans have identified nonsynonymous mutations in PCP pathway genes, including the VANGL genes, that may play a role as risk factors for NTD.

Methods

Here, we present the results of VANGL1 and VANGL2 mutational screening in a series of 53 NTD patients and 27 couples with a previous NTD affected pregnancy.

Results

We identified three heterozygous missense variants in VANGL1, p.Ala187Val, p.Asp389His, and p.Arg517His, that are absent in controls and predicted to be detrimental on the protein function and, thus, we expanded the mutational spectrum of VANGL1 in NTD cases. We did not identify any new variants having an evident pathogenic effect on protein function in VANGL2. Moreover, we reviewed all the rare nonsynonymous or synonymous variants of VANGL1 and VANGL2 found in patients and controls so far published and re‐evaluated them for their pathogenic role by in silico prediction tools. Association tests were performed to demonstrate the enrichment of deleterious variants in reviewed cases versus controls from Exome Variant Server (EVS).

Conclusion

We showed a significant (p = 7.0E‐5) association between VANGL1 rare genetic variants, especially missense mutations, and NTDs risk. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 103:51–61, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asian Federation of Biotechnology (AFOB) signs an MOU with European Federation of Biotechnology (EFB)
Authors: Peng Judy , Kim Hyun Jung
Published: September 2014

On July 15, 2014, the Asian Federation of Biotechnology (AFOB) and the European Federation of Biotechnology (EFB) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the 16th European Congress on Biotechnology (ECB16) in Edinburgh, for future collaborations in biotechnology between Asian and European regions.
Bone mineral density and expression of vitamin D receptor-dependent calcium uptake mechanisms in the proximal small intestine after bariatric surgery
Authors: Elias E , Casselbrant A , Werling M , Abegg K , Vincent R P , Alaghband-Zadeh J , Olbers T , le Roux C W , Fändriks L , Wallenius V
Published: September 2014

Background

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass may lead to impaired calcium uptake. Therefore, operation-specific effects of gastric bypass and vertical banded gastroplasty on bone mineral density (BMD) were examined in a randomized clinical trial. Bone resorption markers and mechanisms of decreased calcium uptake after gastric bypass were investigated using blood and endoscopic samples from two additional patient cohorts.

Methods

Total BMD and non-weight-bearing skull BMD were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at baseline, and 1 and 6 years after gastric bypass or vertical banded gastroplasty in patients who were not receiving calcium supplements. Bone resorption markers in serum and calcium uptake mechanisms in jejunal mucosa biopsies were analysed after gastric bypass by proteomics including radioimmunoassay, gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry.

Results

One year after surgery, weight loss was similar after gastric bypass and vertical banded gastroplasty. There was a moderate decrease in skull BMD after gastric bypass, but not after vertical banded gastroplasty (P < 0·001). Between 1 and 6 years after gastric bypass, skull BMD and total BMD continued to decrease (P = 0·001). C-terminal telopeptide levels in serum had increased twofold by 18 months after gastric bypass. Proteomic analysis of the jejunal mucosa revealed decreased levels of heat-shock protein 90β, a co-activator of the vitamin D receptor, after gastric bypass. Despite increased vitamin D receptor levels, expression of the vitamin D receptor-regulated calcium transporter protein TRPV6 decreased.

Conclusion

BMD decreases independently of weight after gastric bypass. Bone loss might be attributed to impaired calcium absorption caused by decreased activation of vitamin D-dependent calcium absorption mechanisms mediated by heat-shock protein 90β and TRPV6.
High‐Affinity Carbohydrate Binding by Trimeric Benzoboroxoles Measured on Carbohydrate Arrays
Authors: Claes Dorith , Memmel Elisabeth , Holzapfel Malte , Seibel Jürgen , Maison Wolfgang
Published: September 2014

Carbohydrates are involved in a wide range of biological processes of pharmaceutical relevance. The selective recognition of carbohydrates is therefore of great interest in biology and medicine. In this study we present the synthesis of fluorescent multimeric benzoboroxoles and the analysis of multivalent binding processes to immobilized carbohydrate arrays by fluorescence spectroscopy. We observed high binding affinities of trimeric benzoboroxoles by determination ofKDsurfvalues for their interaction with α‐Gal on glass chips. The observedKDsurfvalues were in the mid‐nMrange (49 and 104 nM) and are comparable to theKDsurfvalues for binding of natural lectins, such as that of ConA to immobilized α‐Man (79 nM). The array technology was found to be an excellent tool for studying the binding processes of multivalent lectin mimetics with respect to profiling and quantitation.
Above and below knee femoropopliteal VIABAHN®
Authors: Shackles Christopher , Rundback John H. , Herman Kevin , David Yitzchak , Barkarma Ravit
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To assess the clinical outcomes of VIABAHN® stent grafts deployed across the knee to those deployed above the knee.

Background

The placement of stent‐grafts across the knee joint and extending into the distal popliteal artery has been avoided due to a perceived higher risk of stent fractures, restenosis, and thrombosis due to the unique hemodynamic forces in this region.

Methods

A retrospective evaluation was conducted of 114 patients in 127 limbs. Patients were divided into two groups based on the location of the distal end of the deployed VIABAHN® stent: above knee (AK) (n = 89) in which the VIABAHN® implant ended at or above the femoral condyles and below the knee (BK) (n = 38) with extension of the graft into the below knee popliteal segment. Study end points were loss of primary, assisted, and secondary patency.

Results

One year primary, assisted, and secondary patency rates in the AK versus BK group were 67.7% vs. 47.2% (P = 0.0092), 77.1% vs. 53.7% (P = 0.0022), and 86.3% vs. 59.8% (P = 0.0035), respectively. Univariate analysis demonstrated an increased relative risk of a primary [RR = 2.07 (P = 0.001)], assisted [RR = 2.34 (P = 0.002)], or secondary events [RR = 2.98 (P = 0.002)] in patients when the stent was placed below the femoral condyles. Major amputations occurred in 10% of AK and 34% of BK patients (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

VIABAHN® stent grafts have a significantly lower clinical patency and higher rates of amputation when they extend across the knee joint. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐Speed Camera‐Based Analysis of the Lithium Ceramic Pebble Fabrication Process
Authors: Waibel Patrick , Matthes Jörg , Leys Oliver , Kolb Matthias , Keller Hubert B. , Knitter Regina
Published: September 2014

Lithium ceramic pebbles are a main component of the tritium breeding blanket in a future thermonuclear fusion plant. The melt‐based fabrication of the pebbles using the Plateau–Rayleigh instability emerged to be a promising approach in past investigations. However, the influence of process parameter variations on the pebble fabrication process is not yet well understood. Here, a new high‐speed camera‐based method to analyze the melt jet and the droplets directly in their formation phase is presented. Via special image processing algorithms, various individual properties such as dynamic changes, velocities, or agglomerations of the droplets are extracted. This new high‐speed camera‐based method provides additional information on the process state during the fabrication process. It is therefore an essential part in adapting and improving process parameters with respect to an overall enhanced product quality.
Abiotic Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysts Used in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Wang Zejie , Cao Changli , Zheng Yue , Chen Shuiliang , Zhao Feng
Published: September 2014

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are environmentally friendly technology capable of extracting electrical energy from organic contaminants in wastewaters. The cathodic reaction limits the performance of MFCs. An oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalyst is generally used for the oxygen cathode to reduce the overpotential and obtain more energy. Through surveying abiotic catalysts used in MFCs, this review introduces the ORR catalysis mechanism, influencing factors for catalyst performance, and provides outlooks on further applications of ORR catalysts.
Synthesis and Characterization of Tin Titanate Nanotubes: Precursors for Nanoparticulate Sn‐Doped TiO2 Anodes with Synergistically Improved Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Wang Hongkang , Xi Liujiang , Tucek Jiri , Ma Chuansheng , Yang Guang , Leung Michael K. H. , Zboril Radek , Niu Chunming , Rogach Andrey L.
Published: September 2014

The synthesis of tin–titanate nanotubes (Sn‐titanate) by reacting hydrogen titanate (H‐titanate) with a tin salt through ion adsorption–incorporation is reported. The interactions between tin(II) ions and H‐titanate are thoroughly investigated. Tin ions can be easily adsorbed by H‐titanate, owing to its large surface area and lattice spacing, and the negatively charged layered structures. With Sn‐titanate nanotubes as precursors, Sn‐doped TiO2 nanoparticles are prepared by annealing and are investigated as anode materials in lithium‐ion batteries, which show much enhanced capacity and rate capability. Such improved electrochemical properties of Sn‐doped TiO2 benefit from structural characteristics such as the small size of the constituent nanoparticles, high crystallinity, and uniform tin doping. This synthetic strategy towards Sn‐doped TiO2 anode materials, thus offers the synergistic effect of combining the advantages of TiO2 (cycle life and rate) and SnO2 (high capacity).
Alkenyl/Thiol‐Derived Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) by Means of Postsynthetic Modification for Effective Mercury Adsorption
Authors: Liu Tao , Che Jin‐Xin , Hu Yong‐Zhou , Dong Xiao‐Wu , Liu Xin‐Yuan , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: September 2014

The synthesis of new functionally diverse alkenyl‐derived Cr‐MIL‐101s (MIL=material of Institute Lavoisier) was realized by a novel and convenient postsynthetic modification (PSM) protocol by means of the carboncarbon bond‐forming Mizoroki–Heck reaction. The new PSM protocol demonstrates a broad scope of substrates with excellent tolerance of functionality under mild reaction conditions. Moreover, a new metal–organic framework (MOF) that bears both alkenyl and thiol side chains prepared by means of the tandem PSM method has shown excellent adsorbent ability in removing mercury ions from water.
Comparative Cytotoxicity of Artemisinin and Cisplatin and Their Interactions with Chlorogenic Acids in MCF7 Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Suberu John O. , Romero‐Canelón Isolda , Sullivan Neil , Lapkin Alexei A. , Barker Guy C.
Published: September 2014

In parts of Africa and Asia, self‐medication with a hot water infusion of Artemisia annua (Artemisia tea) is a common practice for a number of ailments including malaria and cancer. In our earlier work, such an extract showed better potency than artemisinin alone against both chloroquine‐sensitive and ‐resistant parasites. In this study, in vitro tests of the infusion in MCF7 cells showed high IC50 values (>200 μM). The combination of artemisinin and 3‐caffeoylquinic acid (3CA), two major components in the extract, was strongly antagonistic and gave a near total loss of cytotoxicity for artemisinin. We observed that the interaction of 3CAs with another cytotoxic compound, cisplatin, showed potentiation of activity by 2.5‐fold. The chelation of cellular iron by 3CA is hypothesized as a possible explanation for the loss of artemisinin activity.
Discovery of a Highly Selective PLD2 Inhibitor (ML395): A New Probe with Improved Physiochemical Properties and Broad‐Spectrum Antiviral Activity against Influenza Strains
Authors: O'Reilly Matthew C. , Oguin Thomas H. , Scott Sarah A. , Thomas Paul G. , Locuson Charles W. , Morrison Ryan D. , Daniels J. Scott , Brown H. Alex , Lindsley Craig W.
Published: September 2014

Further chemical optimization of the halopemide‐derived family of dual phospholipase D1/2 (PLD1/2) inhibitors afforded ML395 (VU0468809), a potent, >80‐fold PLD2 selective allosteric inhibitor (cellular PLD1, IC50>30 000 nM; cellular PLD2, IC50=360 nM). Moreover, ML395 possesses an attractive in vitro DMPK profile, improved physiochemical properties, ancillary pharmacology (Eurofins Panel) cleaner than any other reported PLD inhibitor, and has been found to possess interesting activity as an antiviral agent in cellular assays against a range of influenza strains (H1, H3, H5 and H7).
Medication use as a surrogate marker of emotional health in long‐term cancer survivors
Authors: Fleishman Stewart B.
Published: September 2014

Evaluation of the pattern of psychiatric medications used by long‐term cancer survivors is an inadequate surrogate marker with which to gauge survivors' emotional health. Specialty‐level assessment and treatment are important for precise differential diagnosis and treatment when central nervous system disease recurrence can mimic psychiatric symptoms.
Highly accurate diagnosis of cancer in thyroid nodules with follicular neoplasm/suspicious for a follicular neoplasm cytology by ThyroSeq v2 next‐generation sequencing assay
Authors: Nikiforov Yuri E. , Carty Sally E. , Chiosea Simon I. , Coyne Christopher , Duvvuri Umamaheswar , Ferris Robert L. , Gooding William E. , Hodak Steven P. , LeBeau Shane O. , Ohori N. Paul , Seethala Raja R. , Tublin Mitchell E. , Yip Linwah , Nikiforova Marina N.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) cytology is a common approach to evaluating thyroid nodules, although 20% to 30% of FNAs have indeterminate cytology, which hampers the appropriate management of these patients. Follicular (or oncocytic) neoplasm/suspicious for a follicular (or oncocytic) neoplasm (FN/SFN) is a common indeterminate diagnosis with a cancer risk of approximately 15% to 30%. In this study, the authors tested whether the most complete next‐generation sequencing (NGS) panel of genetic markers could significantly improve cancer diagnosis in these nodules.

METHODS

The evaluation of 143 consecutive FNA samples with a cytologic diagnosis of FN/SFN from patients with known surgical outcomes included 91 retrospective samples and 52 prospective samples. Analyses were performed on a proprietary sequencer using the targeted ThyroSeq v2 NGS panel, which simultaneously tests for point mutations in 13 genes and for 42 types of gene fusions that occur in thyroid cancer. The expression of 8 genes was used to assess the cellular composition of FNA samples.

RESULTS

In the entire cohort, histologic analysis revealed 104 benign nodules and 39 malignant nodules. The most common point mutations involved the neuroblastoma RAS viral oncogene homolog (NRAS), followed by the Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS), the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene, and the thyroid‐stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) gene. The identified fusions involved the thyroid adenoma associated (THADA) gene; the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARG) gene; and the neurotrophic tyrosine kinase, receptor, type 3 (NTRK3) gene. Performance characteristics were similar in the retrospective and prospective groups. Among all FN/SFN nodules, preoperative ThyroSeq v2 performed with 90% sensitivity (95% confidence interval [CI], 80%‐99%), 93% specificity (95% CI, 88%‐98%), a positive predictive value of 83% (95% CI, 72%‐95%), a negative predictive value of 96% (95% CI, 92%‐100%), and 92% accuracy (95% CI, 88%‐97%).

CONCLUSIONS

The current results indicate that comprehensive genotyping of thyroid nodules using a broad NGS panel provides a highly accurate diagnosis for nodules with FN/SFN cytology and should facilitate the optimal management of these patients. Cancer 2014;120:3627–3634. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Human papillomavirus 16 oncoprotein regulates the translocation of β‐catenin via the activation of epidermal growth factor receptor
Authors: Hu Zhongliang , Müller Susan , Qian Guoqing , Xu Jing , Kim Sungjin , Chen Zhengjia , Jiang Ning , Wang Dongsheng , Zhang Hongzheng , Saba Nabil F. , Shin Dong M. , Chen Zhuo Georgia
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

To understand the mechanism of frequent and early lymph node metastasis in high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), this study investigated whether β‐catenin is regulated by the HPV oncoprotein and contributes to OPSCC metastasis.

METHODS

Expression levels of p16, β‐catenin, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were examined in OPSCC samples (n = 208) by immunohistochemistry. The expression and subcellular localization of β‐catenin and EGFR activation were also studied in HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines with western blot analysis. HPV16 E6 small interfering RNA was used to elucidate the effect of the HPV oncoprotein on β‐catenin translocation. The involvement of EGFR in β‐catenin translocation was confirmed by treatment with erlotinib. Moreover, the invasive capacity was evaluated after HPV16 E6/E7 repression.

RESULTS

The results showed that the membrane weighted index of β‐catenin was inversely correlated with p16 positivity (P < .001) and lymph node metastasis (P = .026), whereas nuclear staining of β‐catenin was associated with p16‐positive OPSCC (P < .001). A low level of membrane β‐catenin expression was significantly associated with disease‐free and overall survival (P < .0001 in both cases). Furthermore, the membrane weighted index of EGFR was inversely correlated with p16 positivity (P < .001) and positively correlated with membrane β‐catenin (P < .001). The in vitro study showed that HPV16 E6 repression led to reductions of phospho‐EGFR and nuclear β‐catenin, which were also observed after erlotinib treatment, and inhibition of invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that HPV16 E6 mediates the translocation of β‐catenin to the nucleus, which may be regulated by activated EGFR.Cancer2015;121:214–25. ©2014 American Cancer Society.
Cancer caregiving predicts physical impairments: Roles of earlier caregiving stress and being a spousal caregiver
Authors: Kim Youngmee , Carver Charles S. , Shaffer Kelly M. , Gansler Ted , Cannady Rachel S.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to investigate associations between earlier caregiving experience and the development of physical impairments over the subsequent 6 years among family caregivers of patients with cancer.

METHODS

Family caregivers of cancer survivors participated in a nationwide survey 2 years after their relative's cancer diagnosis (T1) (N=1517) with follow‐up at 5 years (T2) and 8 years (T3) postdiagnosis. Caregivers self‐reported their demographics and levels of caregiving stress at T1. Caregiving status (“former” for those whose patient was remission, “bereaved” for those whose patient had died, and “current”) and the presence of 3 physical impairments (arthritis, chronic back pain, and heart‐related diseases) at the time of assessment were measured at T1 through T3.

RESULTS

Caregiving stress was significantly related to concurrent presence of the 3 impairment markers at T1. Stressed caregivers also were more likely to develop heart diseases, and spousal caregivers were more likely than other caregivers to develop arthritis and chronic back pain several years after the initial caregiving experience (at T2 and T3). These effects were independent of age, sex, education, and income at T1, and they were also independent of caregiving status at each assessment.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings suggest that the adverse long‐term health effects of earlier caregiving stress and of being a spousal caregiver should be acknowledged and that caregiving‐related stress management programs should be incorporated into routine health care for family caregivers of cancer patients. Cancer 2015;121:302–10. © 2014 American Cancer Society.