bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fish farming and its appeal to common bottlenose dolphins: modelling habitat use in a Mediterranean embayment
Authors: Bonizzoni Silvia , Furey Nathan B. , Pirotta Enrico , Valavanis Vasilis D. , Würsig Bernd , Bearzi Giovanni
Published: October 2013

1. Common bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus interact with fish farms in the Mediterranean Sea. These interactions were investigated in a Greek bay by incorporating multiple geographic, bathymetric, oceanographic, and anthropogenic variables.

2. Generalized additive models (GAMs) and generalized estimation equations (GEEs) were used to describe dolphin presence. Visual surveys were conducted over 2909 km under favourable viewing conditions that included 54 dolphin group follows for 457 km. Sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll‐a (Chl‐a) data were obtained from remote sensing imagery, and distances to sources of human influences including fish farms, a ferro‐nickel plant, and a slag disposal area were calculated within a geographic information system (GIS).

3. Bottlenose dolphins were encountered mainly in the south‐eastern portion of the study area, and occurrence was not clearly related to SST and Chl‐a, nor the ferro‐nickel plant or nearby slag disposal area.

4. Dolphin occurrence generally increased within 20 km of fish farms, with four farms and dolphins displaying a positive relationship, seven no clear relationship, and two a negative one.

5. While it is likely that uneaten food and other detritus attract dolphin prey, individual farms (or clusters of farms) clearly had a different appeal. The proximity of the ferro‐nickel plant and slag disposal area to ‘attractive’ fish farms could compromise dolphin health, but physiological data are unavailable.

6. The modelling of multiple variables allowed for a description of dolphin habitat use and attraction to some fish farms. More such data analysed in similar manner would be instructive for other areas where marine mammals and fish farms co‐occur. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
2,4‐DINITROPHENOL PARTIALLY ALLEVIATES FERROCYANIDE‐INDUCED TOXICITY IN Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Lozinsky Oleksandr V. , Lushchak Oleh V. , Lushchak Volodymyr I.
Published: October 2013

The toxicity of potassium ferrocyanide (PFC) and protective effects of 2,4‐dinitrophenol (DNP) under PFC treatment were tested on the Drosophila melanogaster model system. Fly larvae were raised on food supplemented with PFC at concentrations of 1.0 mM and mixtures with DNP in concentrations of 0.50 and 1.25 mM, either alone or in combination with 1.0 mM PFC. Food supplementation with PFC decreased larvae viability or pupation height, whereas when larvae were fed by PFC and DNP combination the decrease was less pronounced. Larval exposure to PFC and mixtures of DNP and PFC lowered activities of aconitase. Larval treatment with PFC resulted in higher carbonyl protein, uric acid, and low molecular mass thiols content and higher activity of thioredoxin reductase in adult flies, while DNP in mixtures with PFC relieved these effects. Furthermore, treatment with PFC/DNP mixtures resulted in higher activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione‐S‐transferase. It is proposed that PFC toxicity is mainly related to the cyanide and iron ions, released during its decomposition. The potential mechanisms of protective DNP effects against PFC toxicity are discussed.
Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of Novel Tricyclic[2,1‐f]theophylline Derivatives
Authors: Zagórska Agnieszka , Pawłowski Maciej , Siwek Agata , Kazek Grzegorz , Partyka Anna , Wróbel Dagmara , Jastrzębska‐Więsek Magdalena , Wesołowska Anna
Published: October 2013

The multireceptor strategy was implemented to obtain potential antipsychotics and/or antidepressants in a series of long‐chain arylpiperazines bearing a tricyclic theophylline fragment. Their binding profile toward monoaminergic receptors (α1, 5‐HT1A, 5‐HT2A, 5‐HT6, 5‐HT7, D2, D3) was determined as well. The selected compounds 7 and 9 were tested in functional in vivo models and showed, like atypical antipsychotic drugs, presynaptic 5‐HT1A receptor agonistic and postsynaptic 5‐HT1A, 5‐HT2A, and D2 receptor antagonistic activity.
Integrating Multi‐element Geochemical and Magnetic Survey at Ancient Sagalassos (Southwest Turkey): Anthropogenic Versus Natural Anomalies
Authors: Dirix K. , Muchez P. , Degryse P. , Mušič B. , Poblome J.
Published: October 2013

Several studies in the field of archaeological prospection have suggested that multi‐element soil geochemical survey holds potential as an archaeological survey method, complementing more common techniques such as magnetometry and fieldwalking. Despite this, only limited research regarding this topic has been carried out. In this study, a geochemical survey was conducted in the Eastern Suburbium of the Roman to Byzantine city of Sagalassos, with the aim of investigating the possibilities and limitations of the technique in facilitating the interpretation of magnetic survey data. To explore the multivariate patterns present within the chemical dataset, the data were statistically analysed using a contiguity‐constrained spatial clustering algorithm. The resulting spatial clusters revealed that an area characterized by high‐frequency magnetic anomalies was spatially associated with a chemical cluster rich in Cu, K, P, Pb and Zn. This is interpreted as resulting from the accumulation and decomposition of occupational debris. Enhancements of Al, As and Ba helped to interpret an area with a low magnetic signal as a region where limestone bedrock was located close to the soil surface. Finally, two zones of enhanced magnetization were shown to spatially overlap with two clusters of soils containing elevated levels of Co, Cr, Mg, Mn, Ni and (Fe) and Ti, V and (Fe), respectively, indicating the presence of two different types of mafic to ultramafic ophiolitic bedrock near the soil surface. This study confirms that multi‐element geochemistry has potential as a survey technique, because it offers direct information on soil bedrock or ancient human disturbance, thereby adding an extra dimension to the interpretation of geophysical survey data. It is shown that soil chemical data are particularly valuable for distinguishing anthropogenic and natural impacts creating geophysical anomalies. Contiguity‐constrained clustering was found to be a promising data analysis technique for multivariate geochemical survey data. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prospecting for Prehistoric Gardens: Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Nolan Kevin C.
Published: October 2013

Non‐intensive agricultural systems leave little physical trace on the surface of the landscape. Geochemical analyses are useful in analysing known fields, but often cost‐prohibitive for prospection. A method of soil phosphate and magnetic susceptibility survey is proposed as a solution. Either or both soil characteristics should be altered by most agricultural systems. Anomalies in these two soil properties combined with archaeological data indicate at least one possible garden detected in the initial pilot study plot in central Indiana. The detected potential gardens match, in size and distribution, ethnographic accounts of non‐intensive agricultural fields. The promise of the proposed method of prospecting for gardens for the study of prehistoric impacts on our inherited landscapes is enormous. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
2013 Classification Criteria for Systemic Sclerosis: An American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism Collaborative Initiative
Authors: van den Hoogen Frank , Khanna Dinesh , Fransen Jaap , Johnson Sindhu R. , Baron Murray , Tyndall Alan , Matucci‐Cerinic Marco , Naden Raymond P. , Medsger Thomas A. , Carreira Patricia E. , Riemekasten Gabriela , Clements Philip J. , Denton Christopher P. , Distler Oliver , Allanore Yannick , Furst Daniel E. , Gabrielli Armando , Mayes Maureen D. , van Laar Jacob M. , Seibold James R. , Czirjak Laszlo , Steen Virginia D. , Inanc Murat , Kowal‐Bielecka Otylia , Müller‐Ladner Ulf , Valentini Gabriele , Veale Douglas J. , Vonk Madelon C. , Walker Ulrich A. , Chung Lorinda , Collier David H. , Csuka Mary Ellen , Fessler Barri J. , Guiducci Serena , Herrick Ariane , Hsu Vivien M. , Jimenez Sergio , Kahaleh Bashar , Merkel Peter A. , Sierakowski Stanislav , Silver Richard M. , Simms Robert W. , Varga John , Pope Janet E.
Published: October 2013

Objective

The 1980 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria for systemic sclerosis (SSc) lack sensitivity for early SSc and limited cutaneous SSc. The present work, by a joint committee of the ACR and the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR), was undertaken for the purpose of developing new classification criteria for SSc.

Methods

Using consensus methods, 23 candidate items were arranged in a multicriteria additive point system with a threshold to classify cases as SSc. The classification system was reduced by clustering items and simplifying weights. The system was tested by 1) determining specificity and sensitivity in SSc cases and controls with scleroderma‐like disorders, and 2) validating against the combined view of a group of experts on a set of cases with or without SSc.

Results

It was determined that skin thickening of the fingers extending proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joints is sufficient for the patient to be classified as having SSc; if that is not present, 7 additive items apply, with varying weights for each: skin thickening of the fingers, fingertip lesions, telangiectasia, abnormal nailfold capillaries, interstitial lung disease or pulmonary arterial hypertension, Raynaud's phenomenon, and SSc‐related autoantibodies. Sensitivity and specificity in the validation sample were, respectively, 0.91 and 0.92 for the new classification criteria and 0.75 and 0.72 for the 1980 ACR classification criteria. All selected cases were classified in accordance with consensus‐based expert opinion. All cases classified as SSc according to the 1980 ACR criteria were classified as SSc with the new criteria, and several additional cases were now considered to be SSc.

Conclusion

The ACR/EULAR classification criteria for SSc performed better than the 1980 ACR criteria for SSc and should allow for more patients to be classified correctly as having the disease.
Fas Signaling in Macrophages Promotes Chronicity in K/BxN Serum–Induced Arthritis
Authors: Huang Qi‐Quan , Birkett Robert , Koessler Renee E. , Cuda Carla M. , Haines G. Kenneth , Jin Jian‐Ping , Perlman Harris , Pope Richard M.
Published: October 2013

Objective

A nonapoptotic role of Fas signaling has been implicated in the regulation of inflammation and innate immunity. This study was undertaken to elucidate the contribution of Fas signaling in macrophages to the development of arthritis.

Methods

K/BxN serum–transfer arthritis was induced in a mouse line in which Fas was conditionally deleted in the myeloid lineage (CreLysMFasflox/flox mice). The arthritis was assessed clinically and histologically. Expression of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), CXCL5, IL‐10, IL‐6, and gp96 was determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Bone marrow–derived macrophages were activated with IL‐1β and gp96. Cell phenotype and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results

Arthritis onset in CreLysMFasflox/flox mice was comparable with that observed in control mice; however, resolution was accelerated during the chronic phase. The attenuated arthritis was associated with reduced articular expression of the endogenous Toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR‐2) ligand gp96 and the neutrophil chemotactic chemokine CXCL5, and enhanced expression of IL‐10. Activation with IL‐1β or gp96 induced increased IL‐10 expression in Fas‐deficient murine macrophages compared with control macrophages. IL‐10 suppressed IL‐6 and CXCL5 expression induced by IL‐1β plus gp96. IL‐1β–mediated activation of ERK, which regulates IL‐10 expression, was increased in Fas‐deficient mouse macrophages.

Conclusion

Taken together, our findings indicate that impaired Fas signaling results in enhanced expression of antiinflammatory IL‐10 and reduced expression of gp96, and these effects are associated with accelerated resolution of inflammation during the chronic phase of arthritis. These observations suggest that strategies to reduce endogenous TLR ligands and increase IL‐10 may be beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Global Molecular Effects of Tocilizumab Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovium
Authors: Ducreux Julie , Durez Patrick , Galant Christine , Nzeusseu Toukap Adrien , Van den Eynde Benoît , Houssiau Frédéric A. , Lauwerys Bernard R.
Published: October 2013

Objective

To investigate the global molecular effects of tocilizumab (TCZ) in comparison with methotrexate (MTX) treatment in synovial biopsy tissue obtained from patients with previously untreated rheumatoid arthritis (RA) before therapy (T0) and 12 weeks after the initiation of therapy (T12), and to compare the results with previous gene expression data obtained in synovial biopsy tissue from adalimumab (ADA)– and rituximab (RTX)–treated patients with RA.

Methods

Paired synovial biopsy samples were obtained at T0 and T12 from the affected knee of TCZ‐treated RA patients and MTX‐treated RA patients. Gene expression studies were performed using GeneChip Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 microarrays, and confirmatory quantitative real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction experiments were performed on selected transcripts. The effects of TCZ and MTX on synovial cell populations and histologic characteristics were assessed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Gene expression studies showed that blockade of the interleukin‐6 receptor (IL‐6R) gene (IL6R) using TCZ induced a significant decrease in the expression of numerous chemokine and T cell activation genes in the RA synovium. These effects strongly correlated with the molecular effects of MTX and RTX therapy on RA synovial tissue, but differed from the molecular changes induced by ADA (decreased expression of genes involved in cell proliferation).

Conclusion

The molecular similarities between the effects of TCZ, RTX, and MTX therapies in the RA synovium indicate that B cell– and IL‐6–dependent pathways play synergistic roles in the pathogenesis of the disease, in particular through activation of T cell responses. Moreover, these results open perspectives for the individualization of therapeutic decisions, based on a better knowledge of the synovial molecular effects of each type of RA therapy.
Visuospatial anatomy comprehension: The role of spatial visualization ability and problem‐solving strategies
Authors: Nguyen Ngan , Mulla Ali , Nelson Andrew J. , Wilson Timothy D.
Published: October 2013

The present study explored the problem‐solving strategies of high‐ and low‐spatial visualization ability learners on a novel spatial anatomy task to determine whether differences in strategies contribute to differences in task performance. The results of this study provide further insights into the processing commonalities and differences among learners beyond the classification of spatial visualization ability alone, and help elucidate what, if anything, high‐ and low‐spatial visualization ability learners do differently while solving spatial anatomy task problems. Forty‐two students completed a standardized measure of spatial visualization ability, a novel spatial anatomy task, and a questionnaire involving personal self‐analysis of the processes and strategies used while performing the spatial anatomy task. Strategy reports revealed that there were different ways students approached answering the spatial anatomy task problems. However, chi‐square test analyses established that differences in problem‐solving strategies did not contribute to differences in task performance. Therefore, underlying spatial visualization ability is the main source of variation in spatial anatomy task performance, irrespective of strategy. In addition to scoring higher and spending less time on the anatomy task, participants with high spatial visualization ability were also more accurate when solving the task problems. Anat Sci Educ 7: 280–288. © 2013 American Association of Anatomists.
Is the world getting flatter? A new method for examining structural trends in the news
Authors: Segev Elad , Sheafer Tamir , Shenhav Shaul R.
Published: October 2013

In this article, we propose a new method to analyze structural changes in networks over time and examine how the representation of the world in two leading newspapers, theNewYorkTimesandDerSpiegel, has changed during the past 50 years. We construct international networks based on the co‐occurrences of country names in news items and trace changes in their distribution of centrality over time. Supporting previous studies, our findings indicate a consistent gap between the most central and the least central countries over the years, with theUnitedStates remaining at the center of the network andAfrican countries at its peripheries. Surprisingly, the most dynamic changes in the past 50 years occurred in what we call the “middle range”. In both outlets, we identified a trend of convergence, in other words, a more equal centrality ofEuropean,MiddleEastern, andAsian countries in the news. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Toward a model of collaborative information behavior in organizations
Authors: Karunakaran Arvind , Reddy Madhu C. , Spence Patricia Ruma
Published: October 2013

There is increasing interest in topics at the nexus of collaboration and information behavior. A variety of studies conducted in organizational settings have provided us with key insights about the collaborative aspects of seeking, retrieving, and using information. Researchers have used a range of terms, including collaborative information seeking (CIS), collaborative information retrieval (CIR), collaborative search, collaborative sensemaking, and others to describe various pertinent activities. Consequently, we lack conceptual clarity concerning these activities, leading to a tendency to use terms interchangeably when in fact they may be referring to different issues. Here, we offer collaborative information behavior (CIB) as an umbrella term to connote the collaborative aspects of information seeking, retrieval, and use. We provide the contours of a model of CIB synthesized from findings of past studies conducted by our research team as well as other researchers. By reanalyzing and synthesizing the data from those studies, we conceptualize CIB as comprised of a set of constitutive activities, organized into three broad phases—problem formulation, collaborative information seeking, and information use. Some of the activities are specific to a particular phase, whereas others are common to all phases. We explain how those constitutive activities are related to one another. Finally, we discuss the limitations of our model as well as its potential usefulness in advancing CIB research.
Synthesis of Highly Stable, Water‐Dispersible Copper Nanoparticles as Catalysts for Nitrobenzene Reduction
Authors: Kaur Ravneet , Giordano Cristina , Gradzielski Michael , Mehta Surinder K.
Published: October 2013

We report an aqueous‐phase synthetic route to copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using a copper–surfactant complex and tests of their catalytic efficiency for a simple nitrophenol reduction reaction under atmospheric conditions. Highly stable, water‐dispersed CuNPs were obtained with the aid of polyacrylic acid (PAA), but not with other dispersants like surfactants or polymethacrylic acid (PMAA). The diameter of the CuNPs could be controlled in the range of approximately 30–85 nm by modifying the ratio of the metal precursor to PAA. The catalytic reduction of p‐nitrophenol to p‐aminophenol takes place at the surface of CuNPs at room temperature and was accurately monitored by UV/Vis spectroscopy. The catalytic efficiency was found to be remarkably high for these PAA‐capped CuNPs, given the fact that at the same time PAA is efficiently preventing their oxidation as well. The activity was found to increase as the size of the CuNPs decreased. It can therefore be concluded that the synthesized CuNPs are catalytically highly efficient in spite of the presence of a protective PAA coating, which provides them with a long shelf life and thereby enhances the application potential of these CuNPs.
Fe(OTf)3‐Catalyzed α‐Benzylation of Aryl Methyl Ketones with Electrophilic Secondary and Aryl Alcohols
Authors: Pan Xiaojuan , Li Minghao , Gu Yanlong
Published: October 2013

Acid‐catalyzed Friedel–Crafts alkylation of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds with electrophilic alcohols, is known to be an effective CC bond forming reaction. However, until now, this reaction has not been amenable for α‐alkylation of aryl methyl ketones because of the notoriously low nucleophilicities of these compounds. Therefore, α‐alkylation of aryl methyl ketone relies on precious metal catalysts and also, the use of primary alcohols is mandatory. In this study, we found that a system composed of a Fe(OTf)3 catalyst and chlorobenzene solvent is sufficient to promote the title Friedel–Crafts reaction by using benzhydrols as electrophiles. 3,4‐Dihydro‐9‐(2‐hydroxy‐4,4‐dimethyl‐6‐oxo‐1‐cyclohexen‐1‐yl)‐3,3‐dimethyl‐xanthen‐1(2 H)‐one was also applicable as an electrophile in this type of benzylation reaction. On the basis of this result, a three‐component reaction of salicylaldehyde, dimedone, and aryl methyl ketone was also developed, and this provided an efficient way for the synthesis of densely substituted 4H‐chromene derivatives.
An Improved Anti‐Windup Bumpless Transfer Structures Design for Controllers Switching
Authors: Qin Guozheng , Duan Zhisheng , Wen Guanghui , Yan Yingxin , Jiang Zhichao
Published: October 2013

In this paper, an anti‐windup bumpless transfer (AWBT) control structure combined with linear interpolation method is proposed for smooth switching control. By choosing an appropriate scheduling signal, different controllers can be switched smoothly under a unified framework. Meanwhile, some robust specifications including H2/H∞ performance, pole placement constraint, and passivity of the closed‐loop system can be preserved through controller switching. Furthermore, for the linear system subject to input saturation, the stability and L2 gain of the closed‐loop system can be guaranteed. Finally, a cart‐spring pendulum system is simulated to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Best Tracking Performance of Networked Control Systems Based on Communication Constraints
Authors: Zhan Xi‐Sheng , Guan Zhi‐Hong , Zhang Xian‐He , Yuan Fu‐Shun
Published: October 2013

The best tracking problem for a single‐input‐single‐output (SISO) networked control system with communication constraints is studied in this paper. The tracking performance is measured by the energy of the error signal between the output of the plant and the reference signal. The communication constraints under consideration are finite bandwidth and networked induced‐delay. Explicit expressions of the minimal tracking error have been obtained for networked control systems with or without communication constraints. It is shown that the best tracking performance dependents on the nonminimum phase zeros, and unstable poles of the given plant, as well as the bandwidth and networked induced‐delay. It is also shown that, if the constraints of the communication channel do not exist, the best tracking performance reduces to the existing tracking performance of the control system without communication constraints. The result shows how the bandwidth and networked induced‐delay of a communication channel may fundamentally constrain a control system's tracking capability. Some typical examples are given to illustrate the theoretical results.
Controllability of Multi‐Agent Dynamical Systems with a Broadcasting Control Signal
Authors: Yoon Myung‐Gon , Rowlinson Peter , Cvetković Dragoš , Stanić Zoran
Published: October 2013

This paper is concerned with the controllability of a multi‐agent dynamical system in which all identical first‐order dynamical agents receive a common exogenous control signal in addition to their inter‐agent communications. Existing graph theoretic results are used to determine conditions for controllability, and to study the dependency of controllability on the size of network and the number of connections. The fragility of controllability in the presence of hidden or broken connections is also investigated.
Toll pricing framework under logit‐based stochastic user equilibrium constraints
Authors: Liu Zhiyuan , Wang Shuaian , Meng Qiang
Published: October 2013

This paper addresses the toll pricing framework for the first‐best pricing with logit‐based stochastic user equilibrium (SUE) constraints. The first‐best pricing is usually known as marginal‐cost toll, which can be obtained by solving a traffic assignment problem based on the marginal cost functions. The marginal‐cost toll, however, has rarely been implemented in practice, because it requires every specific link on the network to be charged. Thus, it is necessary to search for a substitute of the marginal cost pricing scheme, which can reduce the toll locations but still minimize the total travel time. The toll pricing framework is the set of all the substitute toll patterns of the marginal cost pricing. Assuming the users' route choice behavior following the logit‐based SUE principle, this paper has first derived a mathematical expression for the toll pricing framework. Then, by proposing an origin‐based variational inequality model for the logit‐based SUE problem, another toll pricing framework is built, which avoids path enumeration/storage. Finally, the numerical test shows that many alternative pricing patterns can inherently reduce the charging locations and total toll collected, while achieving the same equilibrium link flow pattern. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Classification of Functioning and Impairment: The Development of ICF Core Sets for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Bölte Sven , de Schipper Elles , Robison John E. , Wong Virginia C.N. , Selb Melissa , Singhal Nidhi , de Vries Petrus J. , Zwaigenbaum Lonnie
Published: October 2013

Given the variability seen in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), accurate quantification of functioning is vital to studying outcome and quality of life in affected individuals. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) provides a comprehensive, universally accepted framework for the description of health‐related functioning. ICF Core Sets are shortlists of ICF categories that are selected to capture those aspects of functioning that are most relevant when describing a person with a specific condition. In this paper, the authors preview the process for developing ICF Core Sets for ASD, a collaboration with the World Health Organization and the ICF Research Branch. The ICF Children and Youth version (ICF‐CY) was derived from the ICF and designed to capture the specific situation of the developing child. As ASD affects individuals throughout the life span, and the ICF‐CY includes all ICF categories, the ICF‐CY will be used in this project (“ICF(‐CY)” from now on). The ICF(‐CY) categories to be included in the ICF Core Sets for ASD will be determined at an ICF Core Set Consensus Conference, where evidence from four preparatory studies (a systematic review, an expert survey, a patient and caregiver qualitative study, and a clinical cross‐sectional study) will be integrated. Comprehensive and Brief ICF Core Sets for ASD will be developed with the goal of providing useful standards for research and clinical practice and generating a common language for functioning and impairment in ASD in different areas of life and across the life span. Autism Res 2014, 7: 167‐172. © 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Self‐Rated Social Skills Predict Visual Perception: Impairments in Object Discrimination Requiring Transient Attention Associated with High Autistic Tendency
Authors: Laycock Robin , Cross Alana Jade , Dalle Nogare Felicity , Crewther Sheila Gillard
Published: October 2013

Autism is usually defined by impairments in the social domain but has also been linked to deficient dorsal visual stream processing. However, inconsistent findings make the nature of this relationship unclear and thus, we examined the role of stimulus‐driven transient attention, presumably activated by the dorsal stream in autistic tendency. Contrast thresholds for object discrimination were compared between groups with high and low self‐rated autistic tendency utilizing the socially based Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). Visual stimuli were presented with either abrupt or with ramped contrast onsets/offsets in order to manipulate the demands of transient attention. Larger impairments in performance of abrupt compared with ramped object presentation were established in the high AQ group. Furthermore, self‐reported social skills predicted abrupt task performance, suggesting an important visual perception deficiency in autism‐related traits. Autism spectrum disorder may be associated with reduced utilization of the dorsal stream to rapidly activate attention prior to ventral stream processing when stimuli are transient. Autism Res 2014, 7: 104‐111. © 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immunoassays of fungal laccases for screening of natural enzymes and control of recombinant enzyme production
Authors: Loginov Dmitry S. , Vavilova Ekaterina A. , Savinova Оlga S. , Abyanova Alfia R. , Chulkin Andrey M. , Vasina Daria V. , Zherdev Anatoly V. , Koroleva Olga V.
Published: October 2013

Because of the wide application of laccases in different biotechnological processes and intense studies of the enzymes from different sources, the development of efficient techniques for monitoring laccase level is a task of significant importance. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) andWestern blotting techniques were developed to control total content and isoform composition of laccases, including their recombinant preparations. Because glycosylated and nonglycosylated forms have different structures and sets of epitopes, two kinds of polyclonal antibodies were obtained and applied. The first antibody recognized the native (glycosylated) laccase purified fromTrametes hirsutaand the second one reacted with recombinant (nonglycosylated) laccase expressed inEscherichia coli. Titers of the antibodies were analyzed by indirectELISAwith laccases isolated from several strains of basidiomycetes. The obtained cross‐reactivity data for both antibodies demonstrated a correspondence with sequence homology of the laccases. The antibodies raised against recombinant (nonglycosylated) laccase had higher titers and thus were preferable for screening of recombinant laccase in cultural media. Thus, optimal antibody preparations were selected for screening of laccase‐producing strains, and the control of recombinant enzymes and the efficiency of their use in immunochemical control of laccase levels were confirmed.
A comparison of commercial ethanol production systems from Brazilian sugarcane and US corn
Authors: Chum Helena L. , Warner Ethan , Seabra Joaquim E.A. , Macedo Isaias C.
Published: October 2013

Global biofuels production grew rapidly from 2007 to 2012, led by the United States and Brazil, the world's two largest fuel‐ethanol‐producing systems. In this paper we provide insights into the characteristics of mature Brazilian sugarcane and maturing US dry mill corn ethanol industries. Both systems continue to improve as measured by life cycle data such as total renewable energy produced per unit of fossil energy consumed [renewable energy ratio (RER)]. Sugarcane self‐benchmarking systems showed RER values of 7.0 in 2002 to 9.4 in 2009 as the industry started to switch to mechanized harvesting. The average US RER improved from 1.1 to 1.7 from 2000 to 2010. RERs of 4.4 to 5.5 are observed in corn ethanol plants employing natural gas or corn stover combined heat and power. Ethanol systems configured to produce ethanol and electricity had similar net energy balances (a ratio of net energy produced to energy contained in the fuel). One measure of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions (biomass use efficiency) compares the effectiveness of displacing carbon from combustion of fossil fuels with renewable carbon. Advanced corn ethanol systems reach higher GHG emission reduction levels compared to sugarcane ethanol by displacing coal‐based electricity. Sugarcane systems achieve double the GHG emissions reductions per unit of harvested land relative to corn ethanol because sugarcane and corn are grown as perennial and annual crops in tropical and temperate climatic zones, respectively. Carbon dioxide capture and storage systems could offer additional GHG emission reductions for both corn and sugarcane ethanol systems. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Understanding the evolution of environmental and energy performance of the US corn ethanol industry: evaluation of selected metrics
Authors: Chum Helena L. , Zhang Yimin , Hill Jason , Tiffany Douglas G. , Morey R. Vance , Goss Eng Alison , Haq Zia
Published: October 2013

Throughout the past two decades, numerous studies characterized the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and net energy balance of corn ethanol production in the USA. A wide range of reported values resulted from differences in the vintage of the data used to evaluate the ethanol conversion technology and the agricultural practices of corn production, which evolved substantially during the rapid growth phase of the industry. Methodological differences in life cycle assessments also caused the reported values to vary widely. With corn dry mills growing from 30% of total installed ethanol production capacity in 1990 to 80–90% from 2006 to 2011, we document the evolution of this industry using vintage‐specific data to analyze selected energy and environmental metrics, including GHG emissions, fossil energy use, direct land use, and GHG emissions reduction per hectare of land harvested for ethanol production. Our estimates indicate that production and use of corn ethanol emitted 44% fewer GHG emissions, consumed 54% less fossil energy and required 44% less land in 2010 compared to 1990 (on a life cycle basis). Our review and analysis point to strategies for reducing the carbon footprint of the corn dry mill industry by building on the progress already achieved. Using biomass (e.g. residues from corn production) for process heat or combined heat and power is one such strategy. Additional environmental benefits are projected from the adoption of integrated gasification combined cycle technology (using corn residues), which leads to energy‐self‐sufficient mills or net electricity producers depending on the power system configuration. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Population‐based meta‐analysis of hydrochlorothiazide pharmacokinetics
Authors: Van Wart Scott A. , Shoaf Susan E. , Mallikaarjun Suresh , Mager Donald E.
Published: October 2013

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a thiazide diuretic used for the treatment of hypertension and edema associated with fluid overload conditions such as congestive heart failure (CHF). A population‐based meta‐analysis approach in NONMEM® was used to develop a PK model to characterize the time‐course of HCTZ concentrations in plasma and excretion into the urine for healthy subjects and CHF patients. Data from healthy subjects receiving 100 mg of oral HCTZ were supplemented with additional plasma concentration and urinary excretion versus time data published in the literature following administration of oral HCTZ doses ranging from 10 to 500 mg to healthy subjects or patients with renal failure, CHF or hypertension. A two‐compartment model with first‐order oral absorption, using a Weibull function, and first‐order elimination best described HCTZ PK. Creatinine clearance (CLCR) was a statistically significant predictor of renal clearance (CLR). Non‐renal clearance was estimated to be 2.44 l/h, CLR was 18.3 l/h and T1/2,α was 1.6 h and T1/2,β was 14.8 h for a typical individual with normal renal function (CLCR = 120 ml/min). However, CLR was reduced to 10.5, 5.47 and 2.70 l/h in mild (CLCR = 80 ml/min), moderate (CLCR = 50 ml/min) and severe (CLCR = 30 ml/min) renal impairment, respectively. Model diagnostics helped to demonstrate that the population PK model reasonably predicts the rate of urinary HCTZ excretion over time using dosing history and estimated CLCR, allowing for the convenient assessment of PK–PD relationships for HCTZ when given alone or in combination with other agents used to treat fluid overload conditions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Systems‐based understanding of pharmacological responses with combinations of multidisciplinary methodologies
Authors: Kariya Yoshiaki , Honma Masashi , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: October 2013

The importance of systems‐based pharmacological approaches to drug discovery and development has increasingly been recognized. This reviews summarizes recent advances in the development of systems pharmacology and introduces the methods used for analysis. To understand the cellular response at the molecular level, pathway maps must be prepared to show how the function of the constituent molecules within cells are linked and integrated to form molecular networks. First, the methods used to prepare these pathway maps, such as databases, knowledge bases and software platforms, are introduced. Then the mathematical theories used to analyse the behavior of molecular networks are summarized. To quantitatively predict cellular responses, simulations are performed that are based on the rate equations for each reaction within the pathway map. If the number of reactions described in the pathway map is small, and if the parameter values for the rate constants are available, it is possible accurately to simulate the behavior of the molecular networks. However, to analyse complex maps, mathematical abstraction is required. Such abstraction methods are important to integrate cellular responses and to understand tissue/organ and in vivo pharmacological/toxicological responses. The scope and limitations of the methods are also discussed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacokinetics, bioavailability and tissue distribution of geniposide following intravenous and peroral administration to rats
Authors: Wang Fugang , Cao Juan , Hao Jifu , Liu Ke
Published: October 2013

In order to characterize the pharmacokinetics, bioavailability and tissue distribution of geniposide following intravenous and peroral administration to rats, a reliable gradient HPLC‐based method has been developed and validated. After p.o. administration of geniposide, the peak concentration of geniposide in plasma occurred at 1 h and plasma geniposide was eliminated nearly completely within 12 h. The AUC0→∞ values of geniposide were 6.99 ± 1.27 h · µg/ml and 6.76 ± 1.23 h · µg/ml after i.v. administration of 10 mg/kg and p.o. administration of 100 mg/kg of geniposide, respectively. The absolute oral bioavailability (%F) of geniposide was calculated as 9.67%. After p.o. administration of geniposide, the AUC0→4h values in tissues were in the order of kidney > spleen > liver > heart > lung > brain. This study improved the understanding of the pharmacokinetics, bioavailability and tissue distribution of geniposide in rats and may provide a meaningful basis for clinical application of such a bioactive compound of herbal medicines. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neurophysiological characterization of transpinal evoked potentials in human leg muscles
Authors: Knikou Maria
Published: October 2013

The objectives of this study were to characterize the neurophysiological properties of the compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) evoked by transcutaneous electric stimulation of the spine (tsESS), and the effects of tsESS on the soleus H‐reflex in seated and standing healthy human subjects. In seated semi‐prone subjects with the trunk semi‐flexed, two re‐usable self‐adhering electrodes (cathode), connected to act as one electrode, were placed bilaterally on the iliac crests. A re‐usable pregelled electrode (anode) was placed on the thoracolumbar region at thoracic 10–lumbar 1 and held under constant pressure throughout the experiment. CMAPs were recorded bilaterally from ankle muscles with subjects seated semi‐prone at 1.0, 0.3, 0.2, 0.125, and 0.1 Hz following tsESS. The soleus H‐reflex, evoked by posterior tibial nerve stimulation via conventional methods, was measured following tsESS at inter‐stimulus intervals (ISIs) that ranged from −100 to 100 ms with the subjects seated semi‐prone and during standing. The tsESS‐induced CMAPs were not decreased at low stimulation frequencies, and the soleus H‐reflex excitability was profoundly decreased by tsESS at ISIs that ranged from −5 to 20 ms with the subjects seated semi‐prone and during standing. CMAPs induced by tsESS may be utilized to assess spinal‐to‐muscle conduction time while bypassing spinal motoneuron excitability and tsESS can be used as a modality to decrease spinal reflex hyper‐excitability in neurological disorders. Bioelectromagnetics 34:630–640, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
No influence of acute RF exposure (GSM‐900, GSM‐1800, and UMTS) on mouse retinal ganglion cell responses under constant temperature conditions
Authors: Ahlers Malte T. , Ammermüller Josef
Published: October 2013

Possible non‐thermal effects of radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF‐EMF) on retinal ganglion cells were studied in vitro under conditions of constant temperature. Isolated mouse retinae were exposed to GSM‐900, GSM‐1800, and universal mobile telecommunication system (UMTS) RF‐EMF applying specific absorption rates (SAR) of 0 (sham), 0.02, 0.2, 2, and 20 W/kg. Temperature was kept constant within ±0.5 to 1 °C for GSM‐900 and ±0.5 °C for GSM‐1800 and UMTS. Responses of retinal ganglion cells to light stimuli of three intensities (0.5, 16, and 445 lx) were recorded before, during, and up to 35 min after exposure. Experiments were performed under double‐blind conditions. Changes in light responses during and after exposure were determined for each condition (RF‐EMF; SAR value; light intensity) with respect to the responses before exposure, respectively. Changes were calculated using the Euclidian distance of the n‐dimensional response vectors, respectively. Some changes already occurred during sham (0 W/kg) exposure, reflecting the intrinsic variability in retinal ganglion cell responses. Comparison of the distance values from sham exposure with those from actual exposure yielded no significant differences. In addition, linear regression analysis of the distance values versus SAR values yielded no consistent dependence of light response changes. From these results we conclude that RF‐EMF exposure at three mobile phone frequencies (GSM‐900, GSM‐1800, UMTS) and SARs up to 20 W/kg has no acute effects on retinal ganglion cell responses under constant temperature conditions. Bioelectromagnetics. 35:16–29, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
What is the total number of protein molecules per cell volume? A call to rethink some published values
Authors: Milo Ron
Published: October 2013

Novel methods such as mass‐spectrometry enable a view of the proteomes of cells in unprecedented detail. Recently, these efforts have culminated in quantitative measurements of the number of copies per cell for most expressed proteins in organisms ranging from bacteria to mammalian cells. Here, we estimate the expected total number of proteins per unit of cell volume using known parameters related to the composition of cells such as the fraction of cell mass that is protein, and the average protein length. Using simple arguments, we estimate a range of 2–4 million proteins per cubic micron (i.e. 1 fL) in bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells. Interestingly, we find that measured values that are reported for fission yeast and mammalian cells are often about 3–10 times lower. We discuss this apparent discrepancy and how to use the estimate as benchmark to recalibrate proteome‐wide quantitative censuses or to revisit assumptions about cell composition.
The Warburg effect then and now: From cancer to inflammatory diseases
Authors: Palsson‐McDermott Eva M. , O'Neill Luke A. J.
Published: October 2013

Inflammatory immune cells, when activated, display much the same metabolic profile as a glycolytic tumor cell. This involves a shift in metabolism away from oxidative phosphorylation towards aerobic glycolysis, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect. The result of this change in macrophages is to rapidly provide ATP and metabolic intermediates for the biosynthesis of immune and inflammatory proteins. In addition, a rise in certain tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates occurs notably in citrate for lipid biosynthesis, and succinate, which activates the transcription factor Hypoxia‐inducible factor. In this review we take a look at the emerging evidence for a role for the Warburg effect in the immune and inflammatory responses. The reprogramming of metabolic pathways in macrophages, dendritic cells, and T cells could have relevance in the pathogenesis of inflammatory and metabolic diseases and might provide novel therapeutic strategies.
3′UTRs take a long shot in the brain
Authors: Wang Li , Yi Rui
Published: October 2013

The fast advancing RNA‐seq technology has unveiled an unexpected diversity and expression specificity of 3′ untranslated regions (3′UTRs) of mRNAs. In particular, neural mRNAs seem to express significantly longer 3′UTRs, some of which are over 10 kb in length. The extensive elongation of 3′UTRs in neural tissues provides intriguing possibilities for cell type‐specific regulations that are governed by miRNAs, RNA‐binding proteins and ribonucleoprotein aggregates. In this article, we review recent progress in the characterization of mRNA 3′UTRs and discuss their implications in the understanding of 3′UTR‐mediated gene regulation.
Outlier robust model‐assisted small area estimation
Authors: Fabrizi Enrico , Salvati Nicola , Pratesi Monica , Tzavidis Nikos
Published: October 2013

Small area estimation with M‐quantile models was proposed by Chambers and Tzavidis (). The key target of this approach to small area estimation is to obtain reliable and outlier robust estimates avoiding at the same time the need for strong parametric assumptions. This approach, however, does not allow for the use of unit level survey weights, making questionable the design consistency of the estimators unless the sampling design is self‐weighting within small areas. In this paper, we adopt a model‐assisted approach and construct design consistent small area estimators that are based on the M‐quantile small area model. Analytic and bootstrap estimators of the design‐based variance are discussed. The proposed estimators are empirically evaluated in the presence of complex sampling designs.
Resonance light scattering determination of trace bisphenol A with signal amplification by aptamer–nanogold catalysis
Authors: Yao Dongmei , Liang Aihui , Yin Wenqing , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: October 2013

HAuCl4 was reduced by sodium citrate to prepare 10 nm gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) that were modified by the bisphenol A aptamer (Apt) to obtain an aptamer–nanogold probe (Apt‐AuNP) for bisphenol A (BPA). The probes were aggregated nonspecifically to form large clusters, which showed a strong resonance light scattering (RLS) peak at 520 nm, under preparation conditions (pH 7.6 Na2HPO4‐NaH2PO4 buffer and ultrasonication). Upon addition of BPA, the probe reacted specifically to form dispersed BPA‐Apt‐AuNP conjugates that exhibited strong catalysis of the two particle reactions of glucose‐Cu(II) and hydrazine hydrochloride‐Cu(II) with a strong RLS peak at 360 nm and 510 nm respectively. When the BPA concentration increased, the RLS intensity at 360 nm and 510 nm increased respectively. Accordingly, two new and highly‐sensitive RLS methods were established for the detection of BPA, using the Apt‐AuNP catalytic amplification. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.