bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential interactions of prescription and over‐the‐counter medications having antioxidant capabilities with radiation and chemotherapy
Authors: Lemmo Walter
Published: September 2014

Oncology patients undergoing radiation treatment and chemotherapy routinely use prescription and/or over‐the counter medications either as part of pre‐existing comorbid conditions or in the context of conventional treatment management. A growing amount of data suggest that commonly used pharmaceuticals possess antioxidant properties, which may also partially explain some of their therapeutic efficacy. Clinical research is continuing on how such agents interact during chemotherapy and radiation when oxidative mechanisms of action are involved. Historically, such discussions centered on the category of dietary supplements, natural health products, fruits and vegetables, along with established protectant medications. Evidence confirms that some pharmaceutical agents exhibit antioxidant properties similar to dietary supplements, protectants, and may hence hinder the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Awareness by both healthcare providers and patients in this area is often lacking. After reviewing some of the more common and well‐established pharmaceuticals, which include those prescribed during cancer treatment, caution needs to be advised especially in regards to the use of corticosteroids, as long‐term randomized outcome studies ensuring safety in this area are still outstanding.
Risk of cervical cancer in women with autoimmune diseases, in relation with their use of immunosuppressants and screening: Population‐based cohort study
Authors: Dugué Pierre‐Antoine , Rebolj Matejka , Hallas Jesper , Garred Peter , Lynge Elsebeth
Published: September 2014

Severely immunosuppressed individuals have a strongly increased risk of cervical cancer. In patients with autoimmune diseases (AID), who have defects in their immune system and receive immunosuppressants, the risk of cervical cancer is less clear. We conducted a cohort study, using Danish nationwide population‐based registers including information on AID diagnoses, immunosuppressant intake, cervical screening participation, and cervical cancer incidence. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) were computed to compare the risk of cervical cancer in AID patients to that of the general population. Hazard ratios (HR) from time‐dependent Cox models stratified by AID were used to explore the effect of the most frequently used immunosuppressants, taking into account potential dose–response relationships and lag times between drug exposure and cervical cancer development. Cervical screening coverage of patients with AIDs was compared to the general population. Among 341,758 patients with AIDs, the risk of cervical cancer was not higher than in the general population (SIR = 1.0, 95% CI: 0.9–1.1, based on 720 cases). The intake of immunosuppressants was generally not associated with the risk, apart from azathioprine. The crude HR comparing the period of exposure versus non‐exposure to azathioprine was 1.4 (95% CI: 0.9–2.1). Furthermore, the risk was substantially increased in patients who received a high cumulative dose of azathioprine (HR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.2–3.9), and appeared to be highest when considering that the immunosuppressant exposure would take 5 years to trigger cervical cancer. Patients with AIDs had similarly high screening rates as the general population. Although most patients with AIDs do not have an increased risk of cervical cancer, those taking substantial amounts of azathioprine might need more stringent cervical screening measures.
Cancer incidence and mortality worldwide: Sources, methods and major patterns in GLOBOCAN 2012
Authors: Ferlay Jacques , Soerjomataram Isabelle , Dikshit Rajesh , Eser Sultan , Mathers Colin , Rebelo Marise , Parkin Donald Maxwell , Forman David , Bray Freddie
Published: September 2014

Estimates of the worldwide incidence and mortality from 27 major cancers and for all cancers combined for 2012 are now available in the GLOBOCAN series of the International Agency for Research on Cancer. We review the sources and methods used in compiling the national cancer incidence and mortality estimates, and briefly describe the key results by cancer site and in 20 large “areas” of the world. Overall, there were 14.1 million new cases and 8.2 million deaths in 2012. The most commonly diagnosed cancers were lung (1.82 million), breast (1.67 million), and colorectal (1.36 million); the most common causes of cancer death were lung cancer (1.6 million deaths), liver cancer (745,000 deaths), and stomach cancer (723,000 deaths).
A three‐gene signature and clinical outcome in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sun Ling‐Ling , Wu Jian‐Yi , Wu Zhi‐Yong , Shen Jin‐Hui , Xu Xiu‐E , Chen Bo , Wang Shao‐Hong , Li En‐Min , Xu Li‐Yan
Published: September 2014

It is increasingly apparent that cancer development depends not only on genetic alterations, but also on epigenetic changes involving histone modifications. GASC1, member of the histone demethylases affecting heterochromatin formation and transcriptional repression, has been found to be dysregulation in many types of cancers including breast cancer, prostate cancer, metastatic lung sarcomatoid carcinoma, and leukemia. In this study, we examined the expression of GASC1 and certain GASC1‐targeted genes (KLF4, MYC, SOX2, PPARG, MDM2, and NANOG) and identified a three‐gene prognostic signature (PPARG, MDM2, and NANOG), using risk scores based on immunohistochemical analyses of 149 tumor specimens from patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The presence of a high‐risk three‐gene signature in the ESCC tumors was significantly associated with decreased overall survival (OS) of the patients. We validated the predictive value of the three‐gene signature in a second independent cohort of 101 patients with ESCC in order to determine whether it had predictive value. The results were similar to those in 149 patients. According to multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses, the predictive model of a three‐gene signature was an independent predictor for OS (p = 0.005 in cohort 1, p = 0.025 in cohort 2). In addition, ROC analysis indicated that the predictive ability of the three‐gene model was more robust than that of a single biomarker. Therefore, our three‐gene signature is closely associated with OS among patients with ESCC and may serve as a predictor for the poor prognosis of ESCC patients.
Circulating tumor cell telomerase activity as a prognostic marker for overall survival in SWOG 0421: A phase III metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer trial
Authors: Goldkorn Amir , Ely Benjamin , Tangen Catherine M. , Tai Yu‐Chong , Xu Tong , Li Hongli , Twardowski Przemyslaw , Veldhuizen Peter J. Van , Agarwal Neeraj , Carducci Michael A. , Monk J. Paul , Garzotto Mark , Mack Philip C. , Lara Primo , Higano Celestia S. , Hussain Maha , Vogelzang Nicholas J. , Thompson Ian M. , Cote Richard J. , Quinn David I.
Published: September 2014

Circulating tumor cells (CTC) are promising biomarkers in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), and telomerase activity (TA) is a recognized cancer marker. Therefore, we hypothesized that CTC TA may be prognostic of overall survival (OS) in mCRPC. To test this, we used a novel Parylene‐C slot microfilter to measure live CTC TA in S0421, a phase III SWOG‐led therapeutic trial. Blood samples underwent CTC capture and TA measurement by microfilter, as well as parallel enumeration by CellSearch (Janssen/J&J). Cox regression was used to assess baseline (pre‐treatment) TA versus OS, and recursive partitioning was used to explore potential prognostic subgroups and to generate Kaplan‐Meier (KM) OS curves. Samples were obtained from 263 patients and generated 215 TA measures. In patients with baseline CTC count ≥5 (47% of patients), higher CTC TA was associated with hazard ratio 1.14 (p = 0.001) for OS after adjusting for other clinical covariates including CTC counts and serum PSA at study entry. Recursive partitioning identified new candidate risk groups with KM OS curve separation based on CTC counts and TA. Notably, in men with an intermediate range baseline CTC count (6–54 CTCs/7.5 ml), low versus high CTC TA was associated with median survival of 19 versus 12 months, respectively (p = 0.009). Baseline telomerase activity from CTCs live‐captured on a new slot microfilter is the first CTC‐derived candidate biomarker prognostic of OS in a large patient subgroup in a prospective clinical trial. CTC telomerase activity thus merits further study and validation as a step towards molecular CTC‐based precision cancer management.
Neuroblastoma patient‐derived orthotopic xenografts retain metastatic patterns and geno‐ and phenotypes of patient tumours
Authors: Braekeveldt Noémie , Wigerup Caroline , Gisselsson David , Mohlin Sofie , Merselius My , Beckman Siv , Jonson Tord , Börjesson Anna , Backman Torbjörn , Tadeo Irene , Berbegall Ana P. , Öra Ingrid , Navarro Samuel , Noguera Rosa , Påhlman Sven , Bexell Daniel
Published: September 2014

Neuroblastoma is a childhood tumour with heterogeneous characteristics and children with metastatic disease often have a poor outcome. Here we describe the establishment of neuroblastoma patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs) by orthotopic implantation of viably cryopreserved or fresh tumour explants of patients with high risk neuroblastoma into immunodeficient mice. In vivo tumour growth was monitored by magnetic resonance imaging and fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography. Neuroblastoma PDXs retained the undifferentiated histology and proliferative capacity of their corresponding patient tumours. The PDXs expressed neuroblastoma markers neural cell adhesion molecule, chromogranin A, synaptophysin and tyrosine hydroxylase. Whole genome genotyping array analyses demonstrated that PDXs retained patient‐specific chromosomal aberrations such as MYCN amplification, deletion of 1p and gain of chromosome 17q. Thus, neuroblastoma PDXs recapitulate the hallmarks of high‐risk neuroblastoma in patients. PDX‐derived cells were cultured in serum‐free medium where they formed free‐floating neurospheres, expressed neuroblastoma gene markers MYCN, CHGA, TH, SYP and NPY, and retained tumour‐initiating and metastatic capacity in vivo. PDXs showed much higher degree of infiltrative growth and distant metastasis as compared to neuroblastoma SK‐N‐BE(2)c cell line‐derived orthotopic tumours. Importantly, the PDXs presented with bone marrow involvement, a clinical feature of aggressive neuroblastoma. Thus, neuroblastoma PDXs serve as clinically relevant models for studying and targeting high‐risk metastatic neuroblastoma.
Consumption of vegetables and fruits and risk of subtypes of head–neck cancer in the Netherlands Cohort Study
Authors: Maasland Denise H.E. , van den Brandt Piet A. , Kremer Bernd , Goldbohm R. Alexandra , Schouten Leo J.
Published: September 2014

There is limited prospective data on the relationship between consumption of vegetables and fruits and the risk of head–neck cancer (HNC) subtypes [i.e., oral cavity cancer (OCC), oro‐/hypopharyngeal cancer (OHPC) and laryngeal cancer (LC)]. Therefore, we investigated these associations within the Netherlands Cohort Study, in which 120,852 participants completed a 150‐item food frequency questionnaire at baseline in 1986. After 20.3 years of follow‐up, 415 cases of HNC (131 OCC, 88 OHPC, three oral cavity/pharynx unspecified or overlapping and 193 LC) and 3,898 subcohort members were available for case–cohort analysis using Cox proportional hazards models. Total vegetable and fruit consumption was inversely associated with risk of HNC overall [multivariable‐adjusted rate ratios for highest vs. lowest quartile: 0.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.44–0.85, p trend 0.002] and all HNC subtypes, with the strongest associations for OCC. Total vegetable intake and total fruit intake were also associated with a decreased risk of HNC overall and HNC subtypes. No significant interaction was found between vegetable and fruit intake and alcohol consumption or cigarette smoking. In conclusion, in this large‐scale cohort study, consumption of vegetables and fruits was associated with a decreased risk of HNC overall and all subtypes. Consumption of vegetables and fruits (or of specific groups of them) may protect against HNC and its subtypes.
Whole Cell Modeling: From Single Cells to Colonies
Authors: Cole John A. , Luthey‐Schulten Zaida
Published: September 2014

A great deal of research over the last several years has focused on how the inherent randomness in movements and reactivity of biomolecules can give rise to unexpected large‐scale differences in the behavior of otherwise identical cells. Our own research has approached this problem from two vantage points – a microscopic kinetic view of the individual molecules (nucleic acids, proteins, etc.) diffusing and interacting in a crowded cellular environment; and a broader systems‐level view of how enzyme variability can give rise to well‐defined metabolic phenotypes. The former led to the development of the Lattice Microbes software – a GPU‐accelerated stochastic simulator for reaction‐diffusion processes in models of whole cells; the latter to the development of a method we call population flux balance analysis (FBA). The first part of this article reviews the Lattice Microbes methodology, and two recent technical advances that extend the capabilities of Lattice Microbes to enable simulations of larger organisms and colonies. The second part of this article focuses on our recent population FBA study of Escherichia coli, which predicted variability in the usage of different metabolic pathways resulting from heterogeneity in protein expression. Finally, we discuss exciting early work using a new hybrid methodology that integrates FBA with spatially resolved kinetic simulations to study how cells compete and cooperate within dense colonies and consortia.
Internationalization Versus Regionalization in the Emerging Stock Markets
Authors: Coudert Virginie , Hervé Karine , Mabille Pierre
Published: September 2014

Globalization has led financial markets to be more and more correlated across countries, especially between advanced and emerging countries. We propose to shed light on the issue of financial integration in emerging countries by resorting to complementary econometric approaches. For that, we draw a parallel between the results from a rolling window OLS regression — evaluating to what extent shocks on regional and developed stock markets are passed through to emerging markets — and the results from a trivariate Baba–Engle–Kraft–Kroner‐general auto‐regressive conditional heteroskedasticity model assessing the dynamic of integration in emerging markets While regional integration is by and large a central characteristic of most emerging stock markets, the pattern of financial shocks transmission turns out to vary substantially across countries and over time. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Single‐walled carbon nanotube and graphene nanodelivery of gambogic acid increases its cytotoxicity in breast and pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Saeed Lamya M , Mahmood Meena , Pyrek Sebastian J. , Fahmi Tariq , Xu Yang , Mustafa Thikra , Nima Zeid A. , Bratton Stacie M. , Casciano Dan , Dervishi Enkeleda , Radominska‐Pandya Anna , Biris Alexandru S.
Published: September 2014

Graphene and single‐walled carbon nanotubes were used to deliver the natural low‐toxicity drug gambogic acid (GA) to breast and pancreatic cancer cells in vitro, and the effectiveness of this complex in suppressing cellular integrity was assessed. Cytotoxicity was assessed by measuring lactate dehydrogenase release, mitochondria dehydrogenase activity, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, DNA fragmentation, intracellular lipid content, and membrane permeability/caspase activity. The nanomaterials showed no toxicity at the concentrations used, and the antiproliferative effects of GA were significantly enhanced by nanodelivery. The results suggest that these complexes inhibit human breast and pancreatic cancer cells grown in vitro. This analysis represents a first step toward assessing their effectiveness in more complex, targeted, nanodelivery systems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Graphene supports in vitro proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of goat adult mesenchymal stem cells: potential for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Elkhenany Hoda , Amelse Lisa , Lafont Andersen , Bourdo Shawn , Caldwell Marc , Neilsen Nancy , Dervishi Enkeleda , Derek Oshin , Biris Alexandru S. , Anderson David , Dhar Madhu
Published: September 2014

Current treatments for bone loss injuries involve autologous and allogenic bone grafts, metal alloys and ceramics. Although these therapies have proved useful, they suffer from inherent challenges, and hence, an adequate bone replacement therapy has not yet been found. We hypothesize that graphene may be a useful nanoscaffold for mesenchymal stem cells and will promote proliferation and differentiation into bone progenitor cells. In this study, we evaluate graphene, a biocompatible inert nanomaterial, for its effect on in vitro growth and differentiation of goat adult mesenchymal stem cells. Cell proliferation and differentiation are compared between polystyrene‐coated tissue culture plates and graphene‐coated plates. Graphitic materials are cytocompatible and support cell adhesion and proliferation. Importantly, cells seeded on to oxidized graphene films undergo osteogenic differentiation in fetal bovine serum‐containing medium without the addition of any glucocorticoid or specific growth factors. These findings support graphene's potential to act as an osteoinducer and a vehicle to deliver mesenchymal stem cells, and suggest that the combination of graphene and goat mesenchymal stem cells provides a promising construct for bone tissue engineering. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐clinical safety evaluation of single and repeated intramuscular administrations of MAGE‐A3 Cancer Immunotherapeutic in rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys
Authors: Destexhe Eric , Grosdidier Emilie , Baudson Nathalie , Forster Roy , Gerard Catherine , Garçon Nathalie , Segal Lawrence
Published: September 2014

The MAGE‐A3 recombinant protein combined with AS15 immunostimulant (MAGE‐A3 Cancer Immunotherapeutic) is under development by GlaxoSmithKline for the treatment of lung cancer and melanoma. We performed non‐clinical safety studies evaluating potential local and systemic toxic effects induced by MAGE‐A3 Cancer Immunotherapeutic in rabbits (study 1) and cynomolgus monkeys (study 2). Animals were allocated to two groups to receive a single (rabbits) or 25 repeated (every 2 weeks) injections (monkeys) of MAGE‐A3 Cancer Immunotherapeutic (treatment groups) or saline (control groups). All rabbits were sacrificed 3 days post‐injection and monkeys 3 days following last injection (3/5 per gender per group) or after a 3‐month treatment‐free period (2/5 per gender per group). Local and systemic reactions and MAGE‐A3‐specific immune responses (monkeys) were assessed. Macroscopic and microscopic (for rabbits, injection site only) post‐mortem examinations were performed on all animals. No systemic toxicity or unscheduled mortalities were recorded. Single (rabbits) and repeated (monkeys; up to four times at the same site) injections were well tolerated. Following five to seven repeated injections, limb circumferences increased up to 26% (5 h post‐injection), but returned to normal after 1–8 days. Three days after the last injection, enlargements of iliac, popliteal, axillary and inguinal lymph nodes, and increased incidence or severity of mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltrates was observed in injected muscles of treated monkeys. No treatment‐related macroscopic findings were recorded after the treatment‐free period. MAGE‐A3‐specific antibody and T‐cell responses were raised in all treated monkeys, confirming test item exposure. Single or repeated intramuscular injections of MAGE‐A3 Cancer Immunotherapeutic were well tolerated in rabbits and monkeys. Copyright © 2014 GlaxoSmithKline Vaccines. Journal of Applied Toxicology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cylindrospermopsin induces oxidative stress and genotoxic effects in the fish CLC cell line
Authors: Sieroslawska Anna , Rymuszka Anna
Published: September 2014

Cylindrospermopsin (CYN) is a cyanotoxin detected in water reservoirs worldwide. The toxin is a potent protein synthesis inhibitor capable of adversely influencing a wide range of cell functions. While data on the prooxidative potency of CYN are inconsistent, genotoxic effects towards certain mammalian cell types have been described. However, such a potential on fish cells has not yet been investigated. Hence, the aim of the study was to elucidate the prooxidative and genotoxic impact of CYN on a common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) leucocyte cell line (CLC). The cells were incubated with the cyanotoxin at concentrations of 0.1, 0.5 or 1 µg ml–1. After 24 h, cytotoxic activity of CYN at the highest used concentration was confirmed by decreased cell membrane integrity and inhibited cell proliferation. Additionally, CYN at 0.5 and 1 µg ml–1 increased intracellular ATP levels and decreased the reduced to oxidized glutathione ratio. Furthermore, a significant increase in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production with concomitant changes in superoxide dismutase activity was observed after a 3.5‐h exposure of the cells to the toxin. Genotoxic activity of CYN, manifested as oxidative DNA damage and elevated number of micronuclei, was also detected in exposed cells. The obtained results indicate that CYN is able to exert a wide range of adverse effects, including oxidative stress and genotoxicity in fish leucocytes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exposure to MnCl2 · 4H2O during development induces activation of microglial and perivascular macrophage populations in the hippocampal dentate gyrus of rats
Authors: Abe Hajime , Ohishi Takumi , Nakane Fumiyuki , Shiraki Ayako , Tanaka Takeshi , Yoshida Toshinori , Shibutani Makoto
Published: September 2014

Developmental exposure to Mn caused Mn accumulation in the brain tissue and transient disruption of granule cell neurogenesis, targeting the late stage differentiation of progenitor cells in the subgranular zone of the hippocampal dentate gyrus of rats. Because neurogenesis is influenced by proinflammatory responses, this study was performed to determine whether Mn exposure causes microglial activation in the dentate hilus, a region anatomically close to the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus. Pregnant rats were treated with dietary MnCl2 · 4H2O at 32, 160 or 800 ppm from gestational day 10 to day 21 after delivery. An immunohistochemical analysis revealed increases in Iba1+ microglia in the hilus on postnatal day 21 following exposure to MnCl2 · 4H2O in a dose‐unrelated manner at 32 and at 800 ppm and an increase in CD163+ macrophage at 800 ppm in the hilus. Real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed increases in the mRNA levels of Il1α, Il6, Nos2 and Tnf after 800 ppm MnCl2 · 4H2O. These results suggest that activation of microglia and perivascular macrophages occurs in the hilus after developmental exposure to MnCl2 · 4H2O at 800 ppm, and probably involves the disruption of neurogenesis through the accumulation of Mn in the brain tissue. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of haemostatic decontaminants for the treatment of wounds contaminated with chemical warfare agents. 2: Evaluation of in vitro topical decontamination efficacy using undamaged skin
Authors: Dalton Christopher H. , Hall Charlotte A. , Lydon Helen L. , Chipman J. K. , Graham John S. , Jenner John , Chilcott Robert P.
Published: September 2014

The risk of penetrating, traumatic injury occurring in a chemically contaminated environment cannot be discounted. Should a traumatic injury be contaminated with a chemical warfare (CW) agent, it is likely that standard haemostatic treatment options would be complicated by the need to decontaminate the wound milieu. Thus, there is a need to develop haemostatic products that can simultaneously arrest haemorrhage and decontaminate CW agents. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a number of candidate haemostats for efficacy as skin decontaminants against three CW agents (soman, VX and sulphur mustard) using an in vitro diffusion cell containing undamaged pig skin. One haemostatic product (WoundStat™) was shown to be as effective as the standard military decontaminants Fuller's earth and M291 for the decontamination of all three CW agents. The most effective haemostatic agents were powder‐based and use fluid absorption as a mechanism of action to sequester CW agent (akin to the decontaminant Fuller's earth). The envisaged use of haemostatic decontaminants would be to decontaminate from within wounds and from damaged skin. Therefore, WoundStat™ should be subject to further evaluation using an in vitro model of damaged skin. Copyright © 2014 Crown copyright. Journal of Applied Toxicology © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early chronic lead exposure reduces exploratory activity in young C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Flores‐Montoya Mayra Gisel , Sobin Christina
Published: September 2014

Research has suggested that chronic low‐level lead exposure diminishes neurocognitive function in children. Tests that are sensitive to behavioral effects at lowest levels of lead exposure are needed for the development of animal models. In this study we investigated the effects of chronic low‐level lead exposure on exploratory activity (unbaited nose poke task), exploratory ambulation (open field task) and motor coordination (Rotarod task) in pre‐adolescent mice. C57BL/6J pups were exposed to 0 ppm (controls), 30 ppm (low‐dose) or 230 ppm (high‐dose) lead acetate via dams’ drinking water administered from birth to postnatal day 28, to achieve a range of blood lead levels (BLLs) from not detectable to 14.84 µg dl–1). At postnatal day 28, mice completed behavioral testing and were killed (n = 61). BLLs were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The effects of lead exposure on behavior were tested using generalized linear mixed model analyses with BLL, sex and the interaction as fixed effects, and litter as the random effect. BLL predicted decreased exploratory activity and no threshold of effect was apparent. As BLL increased, nose pokes decreased. The C57BL/6J mouse is a useful model for examining effects of early chronic low‐level lead exposure on behavior. In the C57BL/6J mouse, the unbaited nose poke task is sensitive to the effects of early chronic low‐level lead exposure. This is the first animal study to show behavioral effects in pre‐adolescent lead‐exposed mice with BLL below 5 µg dl–1. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chitosan‐alginate membranes accelerate wound healing
Authors: Caetano Guilherme Ferreira , Frade Marco Andrey Cipriani , Andrade Thiago Antônio Moretti , Leite Marcel Nani , Bueno Cecilia Zorzi , Moraes Ângela Maria , Ribeiro‐Paes João Tadeu
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of chitosan‐alginate membrane to accelerate wound healing in experimental cutaneous wounds. Two wounds were performed in Wistar rats by punching (1.5 cm diameter), treated with membranes moistened with saline solution (CAM group) or with saline only (SL group). After 2, 7, 14, and 21 days of surgery, five rats of each group were euthanized and reepithelialization was evaluated. The wounds/scars were harvested for histological, flow cytometry, neutrophil infiltrate, and hydroxyproline analysis. CAM group presented higher inflammatory cells recruitment as compared to SL group on 2nd day. On the 7th day, CAM group showed higher CD11b+ level and lower of neutrophils than SL group. The CAM group presented higher CD4+ cells influx than SL group on 2nd day, but it decreased during the follow up and became lower on 14th and 21st days. Higher fibroplasia was noticed on days 7 and 14 as well as higher collagenesis on 21st in the CAM group in comparison to SL group. CAM group showed faster reepithelialization on 7th day than SL group, although similar in other days. In conclusion, chitosan‐alginate membrane modulated the inflammatory phase, stimulated fibroplasia and collagenesis, accelerating wound healing process in rats. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1013–1022, 2015.
ASTM international workshop on standards and measurements for tissue engineering scaffolds
Authors: Simon Carl G. , Yaszemski Michael J. , Ratcliffe Anthony , Tomlins Paul , Luginbuehl Reto , Tesk John A.
Published: September 2014

The “Workshop on Standards & Measurements for Tissue Engineering Scaffolds” was held on May 21, 2013 in Indianapolis, IN, and was sponsored by the ASTM International (ASTM). The purpose of the workshop was to identify the highest priority items for future standards work for scaffolds used in the development and manufacture of tissue engineered medical products (TEMPs). Eighteen speakers and 78 attendees met to assess current scaffold standards and to prioritize needs for future standards. A key finding was that the ASTM TEMPs subcommittees (F04.41‐46) have many active “guide” documents for educational purposes, but few standard “test methods” or “practices.” Overwhelmingly, the most clearly identified need was standards for measuring the structure of scaffolds, followed by standards for biological characterization, including in vitro testing, animal models and cell‐material interactions. The third most pressing need was to develop standards for assessing the mechanical properties of scaffolds. Additional needs included standards for assessing scaffold degradation, clinical outcomes with scaffolds, effects of sterilization on scaffolds, scaffold composition, and drug release from scaffolds. Discussions highlighted the need for additional scaffold reference materials and the need to use them for measurement traceability. Workshop participants emphasized the need to promote the use of standards in scaffold fabrication, characterization, and commercialization. Finally, participants noted that standards would be more broadly accepted if their impact in the TEMPs community could be quantified. Many scaffold standard needs have been identified and focus is turning to generating these standards to support the use of scaffolds in TEMPs. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 949–959, 2015.
Violations of War: Testing the Meaning‐Making Model Among Vietnam Veterans
Authors: Steger Michael F. , Owens Gina P. , Park Crystal L.
Published: September 2014

Objective

Posttrauma adjustment theories postulate that intense stressors violate people's beliefs about the world and perceived ability to achieve valued goals. Failure to make meaning from traumatic events exacerbates negative adjustment (e.g., PTSD), whereas success facilitates positive adjustment (e.g., stress‐related growth). The current study aimed to test this model of direct and indirect effects among a sample of veterans.

Method

Vietnam veterans (N = 130) completed assessment measures in an online survey format. Participants were largely male (91%) and Caucasian (93%) with a mean age of 61 years.

Results

Results supported basic model tenets, linking military stress severity to violations of beliefs and goals. In the final model, only goal violations carried indirect effects of severity on PTSD symptoms. Presence of and search for meaning carried a portion of the indirect effects between goal violations and both PTSD and stress‐related growth.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that traumatic stress may disrupt people's goals and meaning‐making may center on these disruptions.
Clinical Supervision: The State of the Art
Authors: Falender Carol A. , Shafranske Edward P.
Published: September 2014

Since the recognition of clinical supervision as a distinct professional competence and a core competence, attention has turned to ensuring supervisor competence and effective supervision practice. In this article, we highlight recent developments and the state of the art in supervision, with particular emphasis on the competency‐based approach. We present effective clinical supervision strategies, providing an integrated snapshot of the current status. We close with consideration of current training practices in supervision and challenges.
Intricate packing in the hydrophobic core of barstar through a CH–π interaction
Authors: Milán‐Garcés Erix A. , Mondal Sayan , Udgaonkar Jayant B. , Puranik Mrinalini
Published: September 2014

Identification of specific packing interactions within in the hydrophobic core of proteins is important for understanding the integrity of protein structure. Finding such interactions is challenging because few tools allow monitoring of a specific interaction in the presence of several non‐specific forces that hold proteins together. It is important to understand how and when such interactions develop during protein folding. In this study, we have used the intrinsic tryptophan residue, Trp53, as an ultraviolet resonance Raman probe to elucidate the packing interactions in the hydrophobic core of the protein barstar. Barstar is extensively studied for its folding, unfolding and aggregation properties. The Trp53 residue is known to be completely buried in the hydrophobic core of the protein and is used extensively as an intrinsic probe to monitor the folding and unfolding reactions of barstar. A comparison of the resonance Raman cross sections of some bands of Trp53 with those observed for N‐acetyl‐tryptophanoamide in water suggests that Trp53 in barstar is indeed isolated from water. Intensity ratio of the Fermi doublet suggests that Trp53 is surrounded by several aliphatic amino acid residues in corroboration with the crystal structure of barstar. Importantly, we show that the side chain of Trp53 is involved in a unique CH–π interaction with CH groups of Phe56 as well as a steric interaction with the methyl group of Ile5. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization and kinetic performance of 2.1 × 100 mm production columns packed with new 1.6 μm superficially porous particles
Authors: Gritti Fabrice , Shiner Stephen , Fairchild Jacob N. , Guiochon Georges
Published: September 2014

The overall kinetic performance of three production columns (2.1 mm × 100 mm format) packed with 1.6 μm superficially porous CORTECS‐C18+ particles was assessed on a low‐dispersive I‐class ACQUITY instrument. The values of their minimum intrinsic reduced plate heights (hmin = 1.42, 1.57, and 1.75) were measured at room temperature (295 K) for a small molecule (naphthalene) with an acetonitrile/water eluent mixture (75:25, v/v). These narrow‐bore columns provide an average intrinsic efficiency of 395 000 plates per meter. The gradient separation of 14 small molecules shows that these columns have a peak capacity about 25% larger than similar ones packed with fully porous BEH‐C18 particles (1.7 μm) or shorter (50 mm) columns packed with smaller core–shell particles (1.3 μm) operated under very high pressure (>1000 bar) for steep gradient elution (analysis time 80 s). In contrast, because their permeabilities are lower than those of columns packed with larger core–shell particles, their peak capacities are 25% smaller than those of narrow‐bore columns packed with standard 2.7 μm core–shell particles.
Delineation of polar localization domains of Agrobacterium tumefaciens type IV secretion apparatus proteins VirB4 and VirB11
Authors: Das Aditi , Das Anath
Published: September 2014

Agrobacterium tumefaciens transfers DNA and proteins to a plant cell through a type IV secretion apparatus assembled by the VirB proteins. All VirB proteins localized to a cell pole, although these conclusions are in dispute. To study subcellular location of the VirB proteins and to identify determinants of their subcellular location, we tagged two proteins, VirB4 and VirB11, with the visual marker green fluorescent protein (GFP) and studied localization of the fusion proteins by epifluorescence microscopy. Both GFP‐VirB4 and GFP‐VirB11 fusions localized to a single cell pole. GFP‐VirB11 was also functional in DNA transfer. To identify the polar localization domains (PLDs) of VirB4 and VirB11, we analyzed fusions of GFP with smaller segments of the two proteins. Two noncontiguous regions in VirB4, residues 236–470 and 592–789, contain PLDs. The VirB11 PLD mapped to a 69 amino acid segment, residues 149–217, in the central region of the protein. These domains are probably involved in interactions that target the two proteins to a cell pole.
Asymmetric distribution of phosphatidylserine is generated in the absence of phospholipid flippases in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Mioka Tetsuo , Fujimura‐Kamada Konomi , Tanaka Kazuma
Published: September 2014

In eukaryotic cells, phosphatidylserine (PS) is predominantly located in the cytosolic leaflet of the plasma membrane; this asymmetry is generated by an unknown mechanism. In this study, we used the PS‐specific probe mRFP‐Lact‐C2 to investigate the possible involvement of type 4 P‐type ATPases, also called phospholipid flippases, in the generation of this asymmetry in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. PS was not found in the trans‐Golgi Network in wild‐type cells, but it became exposed when vesicle formation was compromised in the sec7 mutant, and it was also exposed on secretory vesicles (SVs), as reported previously. However, flippase mutations did not reduce the exposure of PS in either case, even at low levels that would only be detectable by quantitative analysis of mRFP‐Lact‐C2 fluorescence in isolated SVs. Furthermore, no reduction in the PS level was observed in a mutant with multiple flippase mutations. Because PS was not exposed in a mutant that accumulates ER or cis/medial‐Golgi membranes, Golgi maturation seems to be a prerequisite for PS translocation. Our results suggest that an unknown mechanism, possibly a protein with flippase‐like activity, acts in conjunction with known flippases to regulate PS translocation.
Effect of crosslinking reaction on the electromagnetic interference shielding of a Fe–Si–Al alloy (Sendust)/polymer composite at high frequency
Authors: Oh Kyunghwan , Hong Soon Man , Seo Yongsok
Published: September 2014

In recent years, development of advanced electronic devices and communication instruments has led to increased demand for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding because high‐frequency microwave generates undesired noise which can affect the proper operation of commercial, military and scientific electronic devices as well as the health of our human body. In this study, we investigated the effect of crosslinking reaction of polymer matrix on the EMI shielding performance of a Fe–Si–Al alloy (Sendust)/polymer (poly(styrene‐b‐ethylenebutadiene‐b‐styrene)) composite. The crosslinking reaction of polymer matrix enhanced the melt viscosity of the polymer blend which helped the alignment of the metal flake into rolling direction to induce enhanced anisotropy of the composite. The complex permeability of the flake composite was substantially increased, and the reflection loss at 0.8 GHz was −9.3 dB. The absorption efficiency of the crosslinked polymer/flake composite was dramatically increased around 1 GHz compared to the crosslinked/bulk powder composite. Normalized power loss reached almost 1 in Giga Hertz frequency. The Sendust/polymer composites are practically useful for the EMI shielding purpose. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Damage characterization of repeatedly impacted glass fiber reinforced polyester‐armor steel composites with cone beam computed tomography technique
Authors: Fidan Sinan , Bora Mustafa Özgür , Çoban Onur , Tuna Volkan
Published: September 2014

This article utilizes the characterization of single and repeated low velocity impact damage behavior of glass fiber reinforced polyester (GFRP) armor steel composite. Cone beam computed tomography technique (CBCT) was used for damage assessment. Impact energies, maximum loads and the permanent deflection of GFRP, armor steel composites are determined with instrumented drop weight impact test machine. The repeated impact performance and damage resistance were evaluated. On the other hand, preliminary single impact loading tests also performed in order to find the energy levels, which were ranged fully elastic energy level to perforation energy level for GFRP, armor steel composites. Additionally, CBCT was used to provide a novel, multiscale approach for assessing impact damage. Deformation areas of both single and repeatedly impacted GFRP, armor steel composites were assessed three‐dimensionally by CBCT. An innovative approach was used to visualize the internal damages. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:583–593, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Microcosmic morphology and properties of hollow glass beads‐reinforced polylactic acid–based foam composites
Authors: Yao Rui , Yao Zhengjun , Zhou Jintang , Zhou Chang
Published: September 2014

Polylactic acid (PLA)–based foam composites reinforced with hollow glass beads (HGBs) were prepared via a two‐step process. First, the glass beads, PLA, foaming agent, and other additives were blended, supplanted, and pelletized. Second, the foaming masterbatch was introduced into the mold using thermocompressor to make the microfoam composites. The foam morphology, mechanical properties, and heat resistance were investigated. The experimental results show that the compressive strength of the composites achieved an optimal value when the mass fraction of HGBs was 15%, and that the elastic modulus of the composites increases with increasing bead contents. In addition, after doing a comparative analysis of composites with different bead contents, it was discovered that the foam morphology quality became more uniform and fine with the addition of the beads. Finally, it was found that inclusion of the beads enhanced the thermal stability of the composites and improved their thermal decomposition temperature by about 50°C. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:692–699, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Update of energy payback time and greenhouse gas emission data for crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules
Authors: Wetzel Thomas , Borchers Stephanie
Published: September 2014

Results of a recent photovoltaic energy life cycle study are presented. The focus lies on the energy payback time (EPBT) and the CO2 emission rate achievable with state‐of‐the‐art industrial production chains for conventional monocrystalline and multicrystalline silicon modules. The data have been provided by European manufacturers and represent the processes in their European—primarily German—production sites. The analysis covers all steps from metal grade silicon refinement down to assembled modules as shipped to the customer. Balance of system contributions have not been included in the analysis and in the result figures, both for EPBT and CO2 emissions. The resulting EPBT values for the modules only are 1.09 and 0.93 years for monocrystalline and multicrystalline silicon, respectively, both under southern European conditions. CO2 emission rates strongly depend on the scenario considered, ranging from 18 g/kWh in southern Europe to 60 g/kWh in northern Germany under worst‐case conditions for useful lifetime and degradation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE 2 × 2 MODEL OF PERFECTIONISM AND SCHOOL‐ AND COMMUNITY‐BASED SPORT PARTICIPATION
Authors: Mallinson Sarah H. , Hill Andrew P. , Hall Howard K. , Gotwals John K.
Published: September 2014

The authors adopted the 2 × 2 model of perfectionism to examine the unique and interactive effects of two dimensions of perfectionism (personal standards perfectionism [PSP] and evaluative concerns perfectionism [ECP]) on personal and interpersonal indicators of participant experience in youth sport (enjoyment, physical self‐worth, and friendship quality). Participants (N = 219, M age = 15.12, SD = 2.02) were recruited from various school‐ and community‐based sports and completed a multi‐section questionnaire. Consideration of main and interaction effects indicated that pure PSP (high PSP/low ECP) was associated with the most positive sport experience and pure ECP (low PSP/high ECP) was associated with the least positive sport experience. The findings suggest that subtypes of perfectionism from the 2 × 2 model are predictive of differing experiences in youth sport participation.
The utility of dried blood spots for proteomic studies: Looking forward to looking back
Authors: Ignjatovic Vera , Pitt James , Monagle Paul , Craig Jeffrey M.
Published: September 2014

The possibility to detect biomarkers of adult disease in early life and particularly in newborns holds enormous promise for early disease detection and prevention. Early detection of disease or potential for future disease would allow for prevention or amelioration of disease before overt symptoms develop, by lifestyle modifications, appropriate medication and monitoring. It is now increasingly important to develop the technologies that allow dried blood spots (DBS) to be utilized for protein‐based studies. The use of DBS in proteome wide association studies (PWAS) may in turn allow for detection of major diseases of adulthood at the earliest possible time. This review focuses on the utility of DBS in proteomics, the main challenges, as well as the latest approaches for overcoming those, facilitating the use of DBS for detection of major diseases of adulthood at the earliest possible time.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oil of Apricot Seed
Authors: Lee Hyun‐hee , Ahn Jeong‐Hyun , Kwon Ae‐Ran , Lee Eun Sook , Kwak Jin‐Hwan , Min Yu‐Hong
Published: September 2014

In traditional oriental medicine, apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) seed has been used to treat skin diseases such as furuncle, acne vulgaris and dandruff, as well as coughing, asthma and constipation. This study describes the phytochemical profile and antimicrobial potential of the essential oil obtained from apricot seeds (Armeniacae Semen). The essential oil isolated by hydrodistillation was analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy. Benzaldehyde (90.6%), mandelonitrile (5.2%) and benzoic acid (4.1%) were identified. Disc diffusion, agar dilution and gaseous contact methods were performed to determine the antimicrobial activity against 16 bacteria and two yeast species. The minimum inhibitory concentrations ranged from 250 to 4000, 500 to 2000 and 250 to 1000 µg/mL for Gram‐positive bacteria, Gram‐negative bacteria and yeast strains, respectively. The minimum inhibitory doses by gaseous contact ranged from 12.5 to 50, 12.5 to 50 and 3.13 to 12.5 mg/L air for Gram‐positive bacteria, Gram‐negative bacteria and yeast strains, respectively. The essential oil exhibited a variable degree of antimicrobial activity against a range of bacteria and yeasts tested. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling of Migration from Printing Inks on Paper Packaging
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Wei , Gao Song , Hu Chang‐Ying , Wu Yu‐Mei
Published: September 2014

The migration model of contaminants from inks on paper packaging to food is developed based on the penetration of ink in paper and Fick's diffusion. The printed paper is divided as ink layer and paper layer. The mass transfer coefficient hm and partition coefficient KF,P in the interface between paper and food are considered in the model. The model equation is solved, and the migration expression is obtained by using the method of separation of variables. The fitting method is used between the model and the migration experimental data to obtain the diffusion coefficients and mass transfer coefficients for dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC). It is found that there exist linear relationships between ln(DP) and 1/T, and also between ln(hm) and 1/T for DBP and ATBC. The migrations of DBP in the paper sample 2402 at different temperatures and of ATBC in the paper sample 2401 at 50°C are predicted by using the model, and a good agreement is obtained between the model predictions and the migration experimental data. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.