bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraining parameters in marine pelagic ecosystem models – is it actually feasible with typical observations of standing stocks?
Authors: Löptien U. , Dietze H.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. In a changing climate, marine pelagic biogeochemistry may modulate the atmospheric concentrations of climate-relevant species such as CO2 and N2O. To date, projections rely on earth system models, featuring simple pelagic biogeochemical model components, embedded into 3-D ocean circulation models. Most of these biogeochemical model components rely on the hyperbolic Michaelis–Menten (MM) formulation which specifies the limiting effect of light and nutrients on carbon assimilation by autotrophic phytoplankton. The respective MM constants, along with other model parameters, of 3-D coupled biogeochemical ocean-circulation models are usually tuned; the parameters are changed until a "reasonable" similarity to observed standing stocks is achieved. Here, we explore with twin experiments (or synthetic "observations") the demands on observations that allow for a more objective estimation of model parameters. We start with parameter retrieval experiments based on "perfect" (synthetic) observations which we distort, step by step, by low-frequency noise to approach realistic conditions. Finally, we confirm our findings with real-world observations. In summary, we find that MM constants are especially hard to constrain because even modest noise (10 %) inherent to observations may hinder the parameter retrieval already. This is of concern since the MM parameters are key to the model's sensitivity to anticipated changes in the external conditions. Furthermore, we illustrate problems caused by high-order parameter dependencies when parameter estimation is based on sparse observations of standing stocks. Somewhat counter to intuition, we find that more observational data can sometimes degrade the ability to constrain certain parameters.
Brief Communication: Global glacier mass loss reconstructions during the 20th century are consistent
Authors: Marzeion B. , Leclercq P. W. , Cogley J. G. , Jarosch A. H.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Estimates of the contribution of glaciers to sea-level rise during the 20th century that were published in recent years are strongly divergent. Advances in data availability have allowed revisions of some of these published estimates. Here we show that outside of Antarctica, the global estimates of glacier mass loss obtained from glacier-length-based reconstructions and from a glacier model driven by gridded climate observations are now consistent with each other, and also with an estimate for the years 2003–2009 that is mostly based on remotely sensed data. This consistency is found throughout the entire common periods of the respective data sets. Inconsistencies of reconstructions and observations persist in estimates on regional scales.
Srovnávací výzkum v pedagogice: některé úvahy o metodologii problémového přístupu
Authors: Vlček Petr
Published: July 2015

Studie se zaměřuje na vybrané problémy metodologie srovnávacího výzkumu v pedagogice s cílem přispět do debaty o metodologické kvalitě komparativního výzkumu. Snahou autora je pokusit se provést čtenáře procesem vědeckého srovnávání v pedagogice založeném na problémovém přístupu. Vedle stručných teoretických a historických východisek studie, které tvoří základnu pro autorovy další úvahy, jsou v textu uvedeny některé principy pedagogické komparatistiky. Ty autor opírá o současné pojetí srovnávací pedagogiky, její výzkumné pole a vybrané druhy komparativního výzkumu. Následně jsou stručně představeny jednotlivé kroky komparativní vědecké metody. Závěrečné odstavce jsou věnovány úvahám o roli deskriptivních a případově orientovaných studií v komparativním pedagogickém výzkumu, a to zejména z pohledu metodologie problémově orientovaného přístupu.
Kinezika ve výuce cizím jazykům: přehledová studie
Authors: Kovářová Dominika
Published: July 2015

Přehledová studie seznamuje čtenáře s oblastí neverbální komunikace, která je označována pojmem kinezika. Cílem studie je představit a terminologicky vymezit kineziku jako dílčí oblast neverbální komunikace, shrnout teoretické přístupy oboru, pojednat o kinezickém signálu jako znaku a ve strukturovaném členění představit výsledky empirických studií kinezických signálů ve výuce cizím jazykům. První část je zaměřena na vývoj oboru, teoretické proudy a pojmoslovné vymezení. Druhá část pojednává o kinezickém signálu jako znaku. Ve třetí části jsou představeny výsledky výzkumů kinezických signálů, které produkují studenti a učitelé cizích jazyků; zřetel je brán na interkulturní aspekty a didaktickou funkci kinezických signálů ve výuce cizím jazykům. Výzkumy týkající se kinezických signálů ve výuce cizím jazykům nejsou příliš četné. Badatelé se věnují spíše jiným oblastem neverbální komunikace, zejména gestice a proxémice. Přesto i výsledky sporadických výzkumů kinezických signálů se jeví jako nosné pro výuku i další vzdělávání učitelů cizích jazyků. V České republice takový přehled k dispozici není, tato studie se snaží mezeru zaplnit.
CARACTERIZAÇÃO LITOESTRATIGRÁFICA E GEOTÉCNICA E CORRELAÇÕES COM A OCORRÊNCIA DE PROCESSOS DE MOVIMENTO DE MASSA EM TALUDE DA FORMAÇÃO BARREIRAS (CARIACICA-ES)
Authors: Bricalli Luiza Leonardi
Published: July 2015

Este estudo tem como objetivo descrever e analisar os aspectos litoestratigráficos e geotécnicos, afim de correlacioná-los à ocorrência do processo de movimento de massa  (deslizamento) no talude da Formação Barreiras (Cariacica-ES). A base metodológica utilizada foi:execução de Sondagem à Percussão Standard Penetration Test (SPT); análises das camadas estratigráficas; elaboração de perfis geológicos; realização de análises de granulometria, compactação, limite de liquidez e de plasticidade e cisalhamento. Foi possível estabelecer os fatores de Instabilidade do talude e identificar a superfície de Ruptura do Deslizamento, identificando 2 (dois) níveis litoestratigráficos:i)um conjunto de camadas de material fino (argilito),em sua porção superior e; ii) um conjunto de camadas de material mais grosseiro (arenitos). Ambos os pacotes apresentam fatores de segurança abaixo de 1.
URBANIZAÇÃO E LAZER: ASPECTOS DO PROCESSO HISTÓRICO DA CRIAÇÃO DE ESPAÇOS PÚBLICOS EM VITÓRIA, ES
Authors: Freire Ana Lucy Oliveira , Sartório Fernando Domingos Vieira
Published: July 2015

Este trabalho busca expor parte de uma pesquisa e, através da mesma, contribuir com os debates sobre o lazer na cidade atual em um contexto cujos espaços urbanos e a sociedade poderiam vir a ser mais democráticos. Realiza uma análise histórica dos espaços públicos de lazer em Vitória a partir do final do século XIX até a atualidade, buscando imprimir uma visão crítica acerca da localização desses espaços na cidade. O ponto de partida da análise está na importância do lazer no cotidiano dos moradores atrelado à orla, manifestando-se, por exemplo, nas pescarias, na prática de exercícios físicos, na contemplação da paisagem, no banho de mar, nos usos das praias, nos jogos na areia, na pesca, nas caminhadas ao ar livre, entre outras atividades. Faz parte do estudo análises de etapas históricas do processo de urbanização da cidade, entre o final do século XIX e início do século XX, concomitante às pesquisas sobre o lazer na época. Sobressai no texto as discussões sobre a criação de espaços públicos ao longo da orla leste nos anos de 1980 e 1990, período de grandes transformações urbanas e da intensificação do lazer concentrado geograficamente ao leste da orla marítima na cidade. Por fim, o trabalho tece algumas considerações questionando a ampliação dos projetos feitos pelos poderes públicos para expandir as relações do cidadão capixaba com o mar, através do uso de espaços públicos em outras regiões da cidade.
Un bagage linguistique diversifié comme capital humain : esquisse d’un (nouveau) rapport aux langues en Acadie
Authors: Arrighi Laurence
Published: July 2015

Au Canada, les instances gouvernementales et associatives produisent un discours sur les questions linguistiques qui est adapté aux nouveaux modes de production et de gouvernance, façonnés par les transformations économiques, politiques et sociales contemporaines. Au sein des communautés francophones minoritaires, l’accent est mis sur les langues comme capital et outil de développement économique. Tenir les habiletés langagières de ces communautés comme un atout fait partie intégrante de l’« espace discursif francophone » contemporain (Heller et Labrie, 2003). Dans cet article, je montre comment les transformations sociales et discursives se manifestent et alimentent les prises de parole et de position des individus. Plus précisément, j’explore le pendant individuel du discours sur la rentabilisation du capital linguistique comme outil de développement personnel. Je propose essentiellement d’illustrer, dans des prises de parole d’Acadiens, l’une des caractéristiques majeures de la modernité avancée, en l’occurrence l’application des principes et des valeurs du néolibéralisme à la vie sociale et personnelle des individus.
Le bilinguisme dans les répertoires dramatiques franco-canadiens de l’Ouest : perspectives identitaires et esthétiques
Authors: Ladouceur Louise
Published: July 2015

Le bilinguisme des Franco-Canadiens a donné lieu à de multiples représentations théâtrales qui témoignent du changement d’attitude à son égard au fil du temps. D’abord perçu comme agent d’assimilation néfaste au français et banni des scènes francophones, ce bilinguisme s’est manifesté timidement dans les pièces par l’alternance de codes dans les dialogues en langue populaire. Par la suite, l’affirmation nationaliste québécoise et la mondialisation des marchés ont contribué à lui donner une valeur accrue. Les auteurs dramatiques de l’Ouest canadien entreprennent alors de le mettre au service de la création dans des productions qui exploitent sans discrimination toutes leurs ressources linguistiques. Ces écritures proposent des nouveautés esthétiques nourries par un imaginaire translingue qui repousse les limites de la loyauté linguistique.
La terminologie de référence au service de la langue française au Québec et son usage dans le domaine de l’informatique
Authors: Saint Elizabeth C.
Published: July 2015

Cet article traite du degré d’intégration de la terminologie informatique officialisée dans les communications institutionnalisées. Son objectif est d’évaluer l’impact de la production et de la diffusion des recommandations linguistiques par l’Office québécois de la langue française. Pour cela, j’ai adopté le protocole terminométrique élaboré par Jean Quirion (2000) et mesuré, à partir d’un corpus constitué de sites Web d’entreprises informatiques, le degré d’implantation des termes officialisés du sous-domaine des périphériques informatiques ainsi que celui de leurs concurrents français et anglais. L’étude révèle que les termes officialisés sont largement implantés dans le corpus et atteste de l’importance des enquêtes mesurant l’implantation terminologique dans un contexte d’aménagement linguistique.
Affichage commercial bilingue en Acadie du Nouveau-Brunswick : rêve ou réalité? L’exemple du Grand Moncton1
Authors: Roussel Basile
Published: July 2015

L’aménagement linguistique au Nouveau-Brunswick reflète la situation sociolinguistique et sociopolitique des deux langues officielles. Dans l’espace du Grand Moncton, situé dans le Sud-Est de la province, le français est la langue minoritaire dans la ville de Moncton et la langue majoritaire dans la ville avoisinante de Dieppe. Cette étude, basée sur une recherche de terrain, vise à faire ressortir les représentations linguistiques de chacune des langues en analysant la langue d’affichage de plusieurs commerces à l’intérieur de marchés des fermiers de ces deux villes. La recherche montre que l’affichage bilingue tarde à s’imposer dans un espace où les idéologies linguistiques, à savoir que l’anglais est symboliquement majoritaire, semblent être encore très ancrées dans l’imaginaire collectif.
Thiomorpholine Derivatives with Hypolipidemic and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Tooulia Kyriaki‐Konstantina , Theodosis‐Nobelos Panagiotis , Rekka Eleni A.
Published: July 2015

A number of thiomorpholine derivatives that are structurally similar to some substituted morpholines possessing antioxidant and hypocholesterolemic activity were synthesized. The new compounds incorporate an antioxidant moiety as the thiomorpholine N‐substituent. The derivatives were found to inhibit the ferrous/ascorbate‐induced lipid peroxidation of microsomal membrane lipids, with IC50 values as low as 7.5 µΜ. In addition, these compounds demonstrate hypocholesterolemic and hypolipidemic action. The most active compound (5) decreases the triglyceride, total cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein levels in the plasma of Triton WR‐1339‐induced hyperlipidemic rats, by 80, 78, and 76%, respectively, at 56 mmol/kg (i.p.). They may also act as squalene synthase inhibitors. The above results indicate that the new molecules may be useful as leads for the design of novel compounds as potentially antiatherogenic factors.
Regulation of biofilm formation and cellular buoyancy through modulating intracellular cyclic di‐GMP levels in engineered cyanobacteria
Authors: Agostoni Marco , Waters Christopher M. , Montgomery Beronda L.
Published: July 2015

The second messenger cyclic dimeric (3′→5′) GMP (cyclic di‐GMP or c‐di‐GMP) has been implicated in the transition between motile and sessile lifestyles in bacteria. In this study, we demonstrate that biofilm formation, cellular aggregation or flocculation, and cellular buoyancy are under the control of c‐di‐GMP in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 (Synechocystis) and Fremyella diplosiphon. Synechocystis is a unicellular cyanobacterium and displays lower levels of c‐di‐GMP; F. diplosiphon is filamentous and displays higher intracellular c‐di‐GMP levels. We transformed Synechocystis and F. diplosiphon with a plasmid for constitutive expression of genes encoding diguanylate cylase (DGC) and phosphodiesterase (PDE) proteins from Vibrio cholerae or Escherichia coli, respectively. These engineered strains allowed us to modulate intracellular c‐di‐GMP levels. Biofilm formation and cellular deposition were induced in the DGC‐expressing Synechocystis strain which exhibited high intracellular levels of c‐di‐GMP; whereas strains expressing PDE in Synechocystis and F. diplosiphon to drive low intracellular levels of c‐di‐GMP exhibited enhanced cellular buoyancy. In addition, the PDE‐expressing F. diplosiphon strain showed elevated chlorophyll levels. These results imply roles for coordinating c‐di‐GMP homeostasis in regulating native cyanobacterial phenotypes. Engineering exogenous DGC or PDE proteins to regulate intracellular c‐di‐GMP levels represents an effective tool for uncovering cryptic phenotypes or modulating phenotypes in cyanobacteria for practical applications in biotechnology applicable in photobioreactors and in green biotechnologies, such as energy‐efficient harvesting of cellular biomass or the treatment of metal‐containing wastewaters. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 311–319. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The iPLA2γ is identified as the membrane potential sensitive phospholipase in liver mitochondria
Authors: Rauckhorst Adam J. , Pfeiffer Douglas R. , Broekemeier Kimberly M.
Published: July 2015

Previous reports from our lab identified a mitochondrial calcium‐independent phospholipase A2 activity that is activated when the mitochondrial membrane potential is decreased. This activity was demonstrated to influence occurrence of the permeability transition. Originally, this activity was ascribed to the iPLA2β protein. Recently, both iPLA2β and iPLA2γ knock out mice have been generated. It has been shown by others that the iPLA2γ plays a significant role in progression of the permeability transition. In this paper, using the iPLA2β and iPLA2γ knock out mice we show that the membrane potential sensitive activity is the iPLA2γ.
Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections in Intensive Care Unit Patients
Authors: Tedja Rudy , Wentink Jean , O’Horo John C , Thompson Rodney , Sampathkumar Priya
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE

To delineate the epidemiology of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) and to better understand the value of urine cultures for evaluation of fever in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting

DESIGN

Two-year retrospective review (2012–2013)

SETTING

A single tertiary center with 1,200 hospital beds and 158 adult ICU beds

PATIENTS

ICU patients with a CAUTI event

METHODS

The cohort was identified from a prospective infection prevention database. Charts were reviewed to characterize the patients. CAUTI rates and device utilization ratio (DUR) were calculated. Clinical outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 105 CAUTIs were identified using the National Health and Safety Network (NHSN) definition. Fever was the primary indication for obtaining urine culture in 102 patients (97%). Of these 105 patients, 51 (51%) had an alternative infection to explain the fever, with pneumonia (55%) being the most common followed by bloodstream infection (22%). A total of 18 patients (18%) had fever due to noninfectious cause, and 32 patients (32%) had no alternative explanation. Of these, 66% received appropriate empiric antimicrobial therapy, but no targeted therapy changes were made based on urine culture results. The other 34% did not receive antimicrobial therapy at all. Only 6% of all CAUTIs resulted in blood cultures positive for the same organism within 2 days. The urinary tract was not definitely established as the source of bloodstream infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Urine cultures obtained for evaluation of fever form the basis for identification of CAUTIs in the ICU. However, most patients with CAUTIs are eventually found to have alternative explanations for fever. CAUTI is associated with a low complication rate.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(11):1330–1334
Sterically hindered diarylethenes with a benzobis(thiadiazole) bridge: photochemical and kinetic studies
Authors: Li Wenlong , Cai Yunsong , Li Xin , Ågren Hans , Tian He , Zhu Wei-Hong
Published: July 2015

Based on benzobis(thiadiazole)-bridged diarylethenes, the exchanging rate between the main conformers in the ring-open form gradually slows down, offering the opportunity for isolating photoactive anti-parallel conformers. In the ring-closed state, the excess steric hindrance can disrupt the thermal bistability.
The deubiquitinating enzyme complex BRISC is required for proper mitotic spindle assembly in mammalian cells
Authors: Yan Kaowen , Li Li , Wang Xiaojian , Hong Ruisha , Zhang Ying , Yang Hua , Lin Ming , Zhang Sha , He Qihua , Zheng Duo , Tang Jun , Yin Yuxin , Shao Genze
Published: July 2015

Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) negatively regulate protein ubiquitination and play an important role in diverse physiological processes, including mitotic division. The BRCC36 isopeptidase complex (BRISC) is a DUB that is specific for lysine 63–linked ubiquitin hydrolysis; however, its biological function remains largely undefined. Here, we identify a critical role for BRISC in the control of mitotic spindle assembly in cultured mammalian cells. BRISC is a microtubule (MT)-associated protein complex that predominantly localizes to the minus ends of K-fibers and spindle poles and directly binds to MTs; importantly, BRISC promotes the assembly of functional bipolar spindle by deubiquitinating the essential spindle assembly factor nuclear mitotic apparatus (NuMA). The deubiquitination of NuMA regulates its interaction with dynein and importin-β, which are required for its function in spindle assembly. Collectively, these results uncover BRISC as an important regulator of the mitotic spindle assembly and cell division, and have important implications for the development of anticancer drugs targeting BRISC.
Comparison of VivaSight double‐lumen tube with a conventional double‐lumen tube in adult patients undergoing video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery
Authors: Levy‐Faber D. , Malyanker Y. , Nir R.‐R. , Best L. A. , Barak M.
Published: July 2015

The efficiency of a double‐lumen tube depends on its position in the airways, which can be verified by fibreoptic bronchoscopy. The VivaSight DL is a single‐use double‐lumen tube with a camera embedded in the tube's right side. The view from the camera appears continuously on a monitor. In this prospective study of 71 adult patients, we compared intubation times using either the VivaSight DL or a conventional double‐lumen tube. Median (IQR [range]) duration of intubation with visual confirmation of tube position was significantly reduced using the VivaSight DL compared with the conventional double‐lumen tube (51 (42–60 [35–118]) s vs 264 (233–325 [160–490]) s, respectively, p < 0.0001). None of the patients allocated to the VivaSight DL required fibreoptic bronchoscopy during intubation or surgery. The VivaSight DL enables significantly more rapid intubation compared with the conventional double‐lumen tube.
Real‐Time PCR and Droplet Digital PCR: two techniques for detection of the JAK2V617F mutation in Philadelphia‐negative chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Fontanelli G. , Baratè C. , Ciabatti E. , Guerrini F. , Grassi S. , Del Re M. , Morganti R. , Petrini I. , Arici R. , Barsotti S. , Metelli M. R. , Danesi R. , Galimberti S.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Philadelphia‐negative chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are clonal disorders that present JAK2V617F mutation in 50–95% of cases. The main objective of this study was the comparison of two PCR methods, real‐time (qPCR) and droplet digital PCR (DD‐PCR) for detection of the JAK2V617F mutation, to assess analytic sensitivity, specificity, and feasibility of the two methods.

Methods

Ninety‐nine patients with MPN of 225 presenting the JAK2V617F mutation by qPCR have been evaluated by DD‐PCR also.

Results

We demonstrated an absolute concordance in terms of specificity between the two methods, DD‐PCR showing a higher sensitivity (half a log higher than qPCR). As expected, a progressive increase of mutant allele burden was observed from essential thrombocythemia (ET) to polycythemia vera (PV) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF) to secondary myelofibrosis (SMF).

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study showed that DD‐PCR could represent a new and promising technological evolution for detection of JAK2 mutation in MPNs.
The Unified and Holistic Method Gamma (γ) for Inter-Annotator Agreement Measure and Alignment
Authors: Mathet Yann , Widlöcher Antoine , Métivier Jean-Philippe
Published: July 2015

Agreement measures have been widely used in computational linguistics for more than 15 years to check the reliability of annotation processes. Although considerable effort has been made concerning categorization, fewer studies address unitizing, and when both paradigms are combined even fewer methods are available and discussed. The aim of this article is threefold. First, we advocate that to deal with unitizing, alignment and agreement measures should be considered as a unified process, because a relevant measure should rely on an alignment of the units from different annotators, and this alignment should be computed according to the principles of the measure. Second, we propose the new versatile measure γ, which fulfills this requirement and copes with both paradigms, and we introduce its implementation. Third, we show that this new method performs as well as, or even better than, other more specialized methods devoted to categorization or segmentation, while combining the two paradigms at the same time.
Clinicopathological characteristics of immunoglobulin G4-related sialadenitis
Authors: Li Wei , Chen Yan , Sun Zhi-Peng , Cai Zhi-Gang , Li Tong-Tong , Zhang Lei , Huang Min-Xian , Hua Hong , Li Mei , Hong Xia , Su Jia-Zeng , Zhang Zhu-Yan , Liu Yan-Ying , He Jing , Li Zhan-Guo , Gao Yan , Yu Guang-Yan
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a newly recognized fibro-inflammatory condition. Forty-two cases with immunoglobulin G4-related sialadenitis (IgG4-RS) confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical assessment were studied to clarify the clinicopathologic characteristics of the salivary glands involved in IgG4-RS, especially the relationship between the histopathologic features and function of salivary glands or serum levels of IgG4.

Methods

Clinical, serologic, imaging and histopathological data of these cases were analyzed. CT volumes of submandibular, parotid, and lacrimal glands were calculated. The saliva flow rate was measured. Scintigraphy with 99mTc-pertechnetate was undertaken in 31 cases, and the concentration index (CI) and secretion index (SI) was calculated. Relationships between fibrosis severity and salivary gland function or serum IgG4 levels were analyzed.

Results

The first symptom was swelling of bilateral submandibular or lacrimal glands. Physical examination showed multiple bilateral major salivary glands (including sublingual and accessory parotid glands) and lacrimal glands were enlarged in IgG4 RS. Multiple enlarged cervical lymph nodes were noted in 30 patients. Saliva flow at rest was lower than normal in 34 cases; stimulated saliva flow was lower than normal in 15 cases. Secretory function was reduced more severely in the submandibular glands than in the parotid glands. Serum levels of IgG4 were elevated in 95.2% of cases and 78.6% patients had increased IgE levels. Serum IgG4 level was higher and saliva secretion lower as glandular fibrosis increased.

Conclusions

Prominent changes in the morphology, histology, immunohistochemistry and secretion of the major salivary glands of IgG4-RS patients were accompanied by involvement of the lacrimal glands and cervical lymph nodes. Elevated IgE, allergic history, eosinophil infiltration suggest allergic reactions as a potential pathogenesis of IgG4-RS. Severity of glandular fibrosis correlated with salivary function and serum levels of IgG4.
Exploring the challenges of living with peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Morris Andrew , Liles Clive , Roskell Carolyn
Published: July 2015

Peritoneal dialysis and home dialysis constitute two options for those living with chronic kidney disease. This article looks at the lived experiences of individuals taking part in a qualitative study and the subsequent themes that emerged. Significant themes include lifestyle adjustments, such as changes to diet and socialising, as well as psychological and emotional implications.
Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor in a patient with end-stage renal disease and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chai Mee Onn , Noble-Bell Georgia
Published: July 2015

Mee Onn Chai and Georgia Noble-Bell discuss the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in a patient with end-stage renal disease using a new class of oral antiglycaemic agent, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors. This article will focus only on the use of oral antiglycaemic agents.
National home adaptation and reimbursement guidance
Authors: Jenkins Karen , Adams Anthony
Published: July 2015

Undertaking home therapies, such as haemodialysis, can incur costs. Existing guidance is dated and may not meet the needs of service specifications. The British Renal Society (BRS) has worked in collaboration with other professional groups to produce new guidance, which was launched at the society's recent annual conference. Karen Jenkins and Anthony Adams outline the key points.
Cinética de crescimento de levedura em mosto de cagaita para produção de bebida fermentada
Authors: Lopes Ana Cláudia Alencar , Pinto Ismael De Oliveira , Souza Clovis Maurilio de , Cangussu Alex Sander Rodrigues , Oliveira Mara Elisa Soares de
Published: July 2015

Resumo: Objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar o estudo inicial da cinética de crescimento de levedura para servir como base para futuros estudos visando determinar a potencialidade do mosto de cagaita como fonte de substrato na fermentação alcoólica de S. cerevisiae visando a produção de bebida fermentada. Os frutos foram coletados na região sul do estado de Tocantins e após clarificação foi realizado a inoculação com concentração inicial de 1,8 x 103 Células por ml. Os parâmetros analisados foram, pH, teor de sólidos solúveis e densidade ótica a 550nm e taxa de crescimento celular. Como resultados observamos que o TSS inicial apresenta valor bem acima do encontrado em outras frutas como cajá, melancia e caju, os valores de pH inicial do mosto encontra-se abaixo da maioria dos dados da literatura e abaixo do considerado ideal para o crescimento de leveduras e ainda que a velocidade de crescimento abaixo da maioria dos dados disponíveis na literatura são possivelmente decorrentes de fatores nutricionais ou em relação à cepa utilizada.

Kinetics of growth of yeast in wort of cagaita for production of fermented beverage

 
Abstract: The objective this work was the initial study of growth kinetics of yeast to serve as a basis for future studies to determine the potential of the wort cagaita as a source of substrate in the fermentation of  Saccharomyces cerevisiae aimed at producing of fermented drink. Fruits were collected in the southern state of Tocantins and after clarification was conducted inoculation with initial concentration of 1.8 x 103 cells per ml. The analyzed parameters were pH, soluble solids, and optical density at 550nm and cell growth rate. As a result we observe that the initial TSS presented value well above that found in other fruits like cajá, watermelon and cashew, the values of initial pH of the wort is below the majority of the literature data and below the considered ideal for the growth of yeasts and although the growth rate was lower than most of the data available in the literature is possibly arising from nutritional factors or relative to the strain used.
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Preparation and characterization of a new polyaniline salt with good conductivity and great solubility in dimethyl sulfoxyde
Authors: Zeghioud Hichem , Lamouri Saad , Mahmoud Yasmine , Hadj-Ali Tarik
Published: July 2015

In this study, we propose a novel conducting and soluble polyaniline salt
prepared by chemical polymerization in the presence of new doping agent
(IAs). This last is prepared by sulphonation of itaconic acid (IA) with
concentrated sulphuric acid in THF. The obtained doped polyaniline (PANI-IAs)
is extremely soluble in dimethyl sulfoxyde (DMSO) at room temperature, in
which the solubility reach 44 mg mL-1. The conductivity measurement of doped
polyaniline powder precipitated in THF as dispersing medium gave a value of
0.13 S cm-1 when the emeraldine base form of polyaniline is fully protonated.
The polyaniline salt sample is characterized by thermogravimetric analysis
(TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction, UV-Visible
spectra and FTIR spectra.
Effect of Microgravity on Synthesis of Nano Ceria
Authors: Soykal Ilgaz , Sohn Hyuntae , Bayram Burcu , Gawade Preshit , Snyder Michael , Levine Stephen , Oz Hayrani , Ozkan Umit
Published: July 2015

Cerium oxide (CeO2) was prepared using a controlled-precipitation method under microgravity at the International Space Station (ISS). For comparison, ceria was also synthesized under normal-gravity conditions (referred as control). The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area, pore volume and pore size analysis results indicated that the ceria particles grown in space had lower surface area and pore volume compared to the control samples. Furthermore, the space samples had a broader pore size distribution ranging from 30–600 Å, whereas the control samples consisted of pore sizes from 30–50 Å range. Structural information of the ceria particles were obtained using TEM and XRD. Based on the TEM images, it was confirmed that the space samples were predominantly nano-rods, on the other hand, only nano-polyhedra particles were seen in the control ceria samples. The average particle size was larger for ceria samples synthesized in space. XRD results showed higher crystallinity as well as larger mean crystal size for the space samples. The effect of sodium hydroxide concentration on synthesis of ceria was also examined using 1 M and 3 M solutions. It was found that the control samples, prepared in 1 M and 3 M sodium hydroxide solutions, did not show a significant difference between the two. However, when the ceria samples were prepared in a more basic medium (3 M) under microgravity, a decrease in the particle size of the nano-rods and appearances of nano-polyhedra and spheres were observed.
Increasing background seismicity and dynamic triggering behaviors with nearby mining activities around Fangshan Pluton in Beijing, China
Authors: Wang Weijun , Meng Xiaofeng , Peng Zhigang , Chen Qi‐Fu , Liu Ning
Published: July 2015

Dynamic triggering in western Fangshan Pluton, Beijing, China, has been repeatedly identified, but previous studies are limited by sparse seismic station coverage. Here we systematically analyze continuous waveforms recorded by both permanent stations and a temporary seismic network 40 days before and after the 11 March 2011 Mw 9.1 Tohoku‐Oki and the 14 April 2012 Mw 8.6 Indian Ocean earthquakes. We first build a template database using a short‐term average to long‐term average method. Next, we apply the matched filter technique that cross correlates the template waveforms with continuous data to detect additional seismic events. Overall, we detect 1956 and 950 seismic events around the Tohoku‐Oki and Indian Ocean main shocks, respectively. Most detected events are shallow (<5 km) and clustered at Beiling Syncline in western Fangshan Pluton, which is adjacent to a running coalmine. Seven and 10 events are detected during the large‐amplitude surface waves of the two main shocks, respectively, but no similar burst is detected following their major foreshock and aftershocks. Multiple statistical tests indicate that the short‐term bursts after the two main shocks are dynamically triggered. We suggest that mining‐related activities may perturb the subsurface stress conditions and hence make the region more susceptible for dynamic triggering than other places.
The hysteresis response of soil CO2 concentration and soil respiration to soil temperature
Authors: Zhang Quan , Katul Gabriel G. , Oren Ram , Daly Edoardo , Manzoni Stefano , Yang Dawen
Published: July 2015

Diurnal hysteresis between soil temperature (Ts) and both CO2 concentration ([CO2]) and soil respiration rate (Rs) were reported across different field experiments. However, the causes of these hysteresis patterns remain a subject of debate, with biotic and abiotic factors both invoked as explanations. To address these issues, a CO2 gas transport model is developed by combining a layer‐wise mass conservation equation for subsurface gas phase CO2, Fickian diffusion for gas transfer, and a CO2 source term that depends on soil temperature, moisture, and photosynthetic rate. Using this model, a hierarchy of numerical experiments were employed to disentangle the causes of the hysteretic [CO2]‐Ts and CO2 flux Ts (i.e., F‐Ts) relations. Model results show that gas transport alone can introduce both [CO2]‐Ts and F‐Ts hystereses and also confirm prior findings that heat flow in soils lead to [CO2] and F being out of phase with Ts, thereby providing another reason for the occurrence of both hystereses. The area (Ahys) of the [CO2]‐Ts hysteresis near the surface increases, while the Ahys of the Rs‐Ts hysteresis decreases as soils become wetter. Moreover, a time‐lagged carbon input from photosynthesis deformed the [CO2]‐Ts and Rs‐Ts patterns, causing a change in the loop direction from counterclockwise to clockwise with decreasing time lag. An asymmetric 8‐shaped pattern emerged as the transition state between the two loop directions. Tracing the pattern and direction of the hysteretic [CO2]‐Ts and Rs‐Ts relations can provide new ways to fingerprint the effects of photosynthesis stimulation on soil microbial activity and detect time lags between rhizospheric respiration and photosynthesis.
Playback responses of socially monogamous black‐fronted titi monkeys to simulated solitary and paired intruders
Authors: Caselli Christini B. , Mennill Daniel J. , Gestich Carla C. , Setz Eleonore Z. F. , Bicca‐Marques Júlio César
Published: July 2015

Many birds and primates use loud vocalizations to mediate agonistic interactions with conspecifics, either as solos by males or females, or as coordinated duets. The extensive variation in duet complexity, the contribution of each sex, and the context in which duets are produced suggest that duets may serve several functions, including territory and mate defense. Titi monkeys (Callicebusspp.) are believed to defend their home range via solo loud calls or coordinated duets. Yet there are remarkably few experimental studies assessing the function of these calls. Observations of interactions between wild established groups and solitary individuals are rare and, therefore, controlled experiments are required to simulate such situations and evaluate the mate and joint territorial defense hypotheses. We conducted playback experiments with three free‐ranging groups of habituated black‐fronted titi monkeys (Callicebus nigrifrons) to test these hypotheses. We found that titi monkeys responded to the three conspecific playback treatments (duets, female solos, and male solos) and did not respond to the heterospecific control treatment. The monkeys did not show sex‐specific responses to solos (N = 12 trials). Partners started to duet together in 79% of their responses to playback‐simulated rivals (N = 14 calls in response to playback). Males started to approach the loudspeaker before females regardless of the type of stimulus. The strength of the response of mated pairs to all three conspecific treatments was similar. Overall, our results are consistent with the idea that black‐fronted titi monkeys use their loud calls in intergroup communication as a mechanism of joint territorial defense. Am. J. Primatol. 77:1135–1142, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphological and Structural Evolutions of Metal–Organic Framework Particles from Amorphous Spheres to Crystalline Hexagonal Rods
Authors: Lee Hee Jung , We Junghun , Kim Jun Oh , Kim Dooyoung , Cha Wonhee , Lee Eunji , Sohn Jeungwon , Oh Moonhyun
Published: July 2015

Compositions as well as morphologies and structures of particles are vital factors that define their properties and applications. However, the morphology and structure changes associated with the composition change of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are barely studied. Herein, we report the morphology and structure changes of MOF particles associated with the ratio of two organic linkers incorporated within MOF particles, when they are constructed from the reactions of In(NO3)3 in the presence of isophthalic acid (H2IPA) and/or 1,4‐benzenedicarboxylic acid (H2BDC). Two tendencies—the tendency of BDC and In3+ to form porous crystalline hexagonal rods, and the tendency of IPA and In3+ to form non‐porous amorphous spherical particles—compete during the formation of MOF particles. Eventually, the incorporated ratio of BDC and IPA within the MOF particles, and thus their morphology and porosity, are controlled by altering the relative amounts of H2BDC and H2IPA used during the reactions.
Time Course for Onset and Recovery from Effects of a Novel Male Reproductive Toxicant: Implications for Apical Preclinical Study Designs
Authors: Powles‐Glover Nicola , Mitchard Terri , Stewart Jane
Published: July 2015

In the pharmaceutic ICH S5(R2) guidelines for reproductive toxicity testing, a premating dose duration of 14 days is considered sufficient for assessment of male fertility for compounds that are not testicular toxicants. A novel α7 subtype of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) agonist, originally intended for treatment of Alzheimer's disease, did not cause changes in sperm counts, motility, or testicular histopathology in rat toxicity studies of up to 6 months duration. However, profound decrements in male fertility (reduced pregnancy rates and litter sizes) occurred after 11 weeks of dosing in male rats. In two time‐course investigations, dosed male rats were paired with undosed females after 5, 14, and 28 daily doses and again after 2 and 4 weeks off‐dose. Effects on male fertility were undetectable after 5 days. After 14 days, there was no effect on pregnancy rate, but preimplantation losses were increased. Effects on both pregnancy rates and preimplantation losses were clearly detectable after 28 days, but were of lesser magnitude than after 11 weeks of dosing. Fertility recovered rapidly after dose cessation. These studies illustrate the sensitivity of a long premating dose period at revealing hazard and determining the magnitude of effect on male fertility for compounds that are intended for chronic administration and do not affect testicular histopathology
An Enhanced Pre‐ and Postnatal Development Study in Cynomolgus Monkeys with Tabalumab: A Human IgG4 Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Breslin William J. , Hilbish Kim G. , Martin Jennifer A. , Halstead Carolyn A. , Newcomb Deanna L. , Chellman Gary J.
Published: July 2015

Tabalumab, a human IgG4 monoclonal antibody (mAb) with neutralizing activity against both soluble and membrane B‐cell activating factor (BAFF), has been under development for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential adverse effects of maternal tabalumab exposure on pregnancy, parturition, and lactation of the mothers and on the growth, viability, and development of the offspring through postnatal day (PND) 204. Tabalumab was administered by subcutaneous injection to presumed pregnant cynomolgus monkeys (16–19 per group) every 2 weeks from gestation day (GD) 20 to 22 until parturition at doses of 0, 0.3, or 30 mg/kg. Evaluations in mothers and infants included clinical signs, body weight, toxicokinetics, blood lymphocyte phenotyping, T‐cell‐dependent antibody response (infants only), antitherapeutic antibody (ATA), organ weights (infants only), and gross and microscopic histopathology. Infants were also examined for external and visceral morphologic and neurobehavioral development. There were no adverse tabalumab‐related effects on maternal or infant endpoints. An expected pharmacological decrease in peripheral blood B‐lymphocytes occurred in adults and infants; however, B‐cell recovery was evident by PND154 in adults and infants at 0.3 mg/kg and by PND204 in infants at 30 mg/kg. At 30 mg/kg, a reduced IgM antibody response to T‐cell‐dependent antigen keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) was observed following primary immunization. Following secondary KLH immunization, all infants in both dose groups mounted anti‐KLH IgM and IgG antibody responses similar to control. Placental and mammary transfer of tabalumab was demonstrated. In conclusion, the no‐observed‐adverse‐effect level for maternal and developmental toxicity was 30 mg/kg, the highest dose tested. Exposures at 30 mg/kg provide a margin of safety of 16× the anticipated clinical exposure.
Influences of Hydrosoluble and Lipophilic Rhizodeposits on Pyrene Sorption in Soil
Authors: Wei Jing , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhang Xinying , Wang Chuanhua , Chen Xueping , Liang Xia , Hou Yunyun , Li Hongbing
Published: July 2015

Plants change the behavior of pollutants in soil by rhizodeposition in the process of physiochemistry. The effects of hydrosoluble and lipophilic extracts from celery rhizodeposits on pyrene sorption were investigated. The Freundlich sorption coefficient of pyrene decreased from 1143 mg kg−1 in the bulk treatment to 670, 795, and 1030 mg kg−1 in treatments with lipophilic + hydrosoluble, hydrosoluble, and lipophilic extracts, respectively. Although both hydrosoluble and lipophilic extracts inhibited pyrene sorption, they acted at different processes on soil organic matters (SOMs) and dissolved organic matters (DOMs). The analysis of three‐dimensional fluorescence excitation‐emission matrix spectroscopy revealed that the intensity of soluble humic‐like substances increased from 5.73 in the bulk treatment to 7.74, 6.36, and 8.67 in treatments with hydrosoluble, lipophilic and hydrosoluble + lipophilic components, respectively. Images of DOMs by atomic force microscopy illustrated that the hydrosoluble extract greatly expanded the DOMs particles, while the lipophilic slightly shrank them. Moreover, the lipophilic extract dramatically softened SOMs with the glassy transition temperature declining from 50.6 ± 0.5 to 29.7 ± 2.0°C. These results not only provide insights into the mechanisms involved in pyrene sorption but also help us understand how rhizodeposition affects the pyrene bioaccessibility to some extent.
Visualization of delayed release of compounds from pH‐sensitive capsules in vitro and in vivo in a hamster model
Authors: Staelens Dominiek , Liang Sayuan , Appeltans Bernard , Van de Wouwer Marlies , Van den Mooter Guy , Van Assche Gert , Himmelreich Uwe , Vande Velde Greetje
Published: July 2015

Delayed controlled release is an innovative strategy to locally administer therapeutic compounds (e.g. chemotherapeutics, antibodies etc.). This would improve efficiency and reduce side effects compared with systemic administration. To enable the evaluation of the efficacy of controlled release strategies both in vitro and in vivo, we investigated the release of contrast agents (19 F‐FDG and BaSO4) to the intestinal tract from capsules coated with pH‐sensitive polymers (EUDRAGIT L‐100) by using two complementary techniques, i.e. 19 F magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Using in vitro 19 F‐MRI, we were able to non‐destructively and dynamically establish a time window of 2 h during which the capsules are resistant to low pH. With 19 F‐MRI, we could establish the exact time point when the capsules became water permeable, before physical degradation of the capsule. This was complemented by CT imaging, which provided longitudinal information on physical degradation of the capsule at low pH that was only seen after 230 min. After oral administration to hamsters, 19 F‐MRI visualized the early event whereby the capsule becomes water permeable after 2 h. Additionally, using CT, the integrity and location (stomach and small intestines) of the capsule after administration could be monitored. In conclusion, we propose combined 19 F‐MRI and CT to non‐invasively visualize the different temporal and spatial events regarding the release of compounds, both in an in vitro setting and in the gastrointestinal tract of small animal models. This multimodal imaging approach will enable the in vitro and in vivo evaluation of further technical improvements to controlled release strategies. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.