bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Xanthoproteic reaction for the evaluation of wool antifelting treatments
Authors: Migliavacca Gianluca , Ferrero Franco , Tonin Claudio
Published: September 2014

The substances responsible for the yellowing of wool treated with nitric acid are two amino acid constituents of the fibre: tryptophan and tyrosine. Nitric acid penetrates the fibres and carries out electrophilic aromatic substitution on the two above‐mentioned amino acid residues, producing different colour yields. The intensity of yellowing depends in various ways on the treatment conditions (time, temperature, nitric acid concentration, agitation, and liquor ratio). Yellowing evaluation shows abnormal yellowing depending on acid concentration in the range 5.6–5.9 m. Working in this region makes it possible to use the chromatic reaction in order to show the damage done to wool fibres by the oxidising agents utilised in normal antifelting treatments. Wool damage by the oxidants is usually evaluated by dyeing methods based on different affinity of damaged fibres. By contrast, the xanthoproteic reaction yields chromogens as a function of the accessibility of tryptophan and tyrosine residues for the action of nitric acid on damaged fibres, and can be used for assessing the degree of antifelting treatment and its possible unevenness through the development on the treated wool of a yellow coloration more intense than on untreated wool.
What do we gain from simplicity versus complexity in species distribution models?
Authors: Merow Cory , Smith Mathew J. , Edwards Thomas C. , Guisan Antoine , McMahon Sean M. , Normand Signe , Thuiller Wilfried , Wüest Rafael O. , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Elith Jane
Published: September 2014

Species distribution models (SDMs) are widely used to explain and predict species ranges and environmental niches. They are most commonly constructed by inferring species' occurrence–environment relationships using statistical and machine‐learning methods. The variety of methods that can be used to construct SDMs (e.g. generalized linear/additive models, tree‐based models, maximum entropy, etc.), and the variety of ways that such models can be implemented, permits substantial flexibility in SDM complexity. Building models with an appropriate amount of complexity for the study objectives is critical for robust inference. We characterize complexity as the shape of the inferred occurrence–environment relationships and the number of parameters used to describe them, and search for insights into whether additional complexity is informative or superfluous. By building ‘under fit’ models, having insufficient flexibility to describe observed occurrence–environment relationships, we risk misunderstanding the factors shaping species distributions. By building ‘over fit’ models, with excessive flexibility, we risk inadvertently ascribing pattern to noise or building opaque models. However, model selection can be challenging, especially when comparing models constructed under different modeling approaches. Here we argue for a more pragmatic approach: researchers should constrain the complexity of their models based on study objective, attributes of the data, and an understanding of how these interact with the underlying biological processes. We discuss guidelines for balancing under fitting with over fitting and consequently how complexity affects decisions made during model building. Although some generalities are possible, our discussion reflects differences in opinions that favor simpler versus more complex models. We conclude that combining insights from both simple and complex SDM building approaches best advances our knowledge of current and future species ranges.
Which sampling design to monitor saturated hydraulic conductivity?
Authors: Hassler S. K. , Lark R. M. , Zimmermann B. , Elsenbeer H.
Published: September 2014

Soil in a changing world is subject to both anthropogenic and environmental stresses. Soil monitoring is essential to assess the magnitude of changes in soil variables and how they affect ecosystem processes and human livelihoods. However, we cannot always be sure which sampling design is best for a given monitoring task. We employed a rotational stratified simple random sampling (rotStRS) for the estimation of temporal changes in the spatial mean of saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) at three sites in central Panama in 2009, 2010 and 2011. To assess this design's efficiency we compared the resulting estimates of the spatial mean and variance for 2009 with those gained from stratified simple random sampling (StRS), which was effectively the data obtained on the first sampling time, and with an equivalent unexecuted simple random sampling (SRS). The poor performance of geometrical stratification and the weak predictive relationship between measurements of successive years yielded no advantage of sampling designs more complex thanSRS. The failure of stratification may be attributed to the small large‐scale variability ofKs. Revisiting previously sampled locations was not beneficial because of the large small‐scale variability in combination with destructive sampling, resulting in poor consistency between revisited samples. We conclude that for ourKsmonitoring scheme, repeatedSRSis equally effective asrotStRS. Some problems of small‐scale variability might be overcome by collecting several samples at close range to reduce the effect of small‐scale variation. Finally, we give recommendations on the key factors to consider when deciding whether to use stratification and rotation in a soil monitoring scheme.
The structure of hyperthermophilic β‐N‐acetylglucosaminidase reveals a novel dimer architecture associated with the active site
Authors: Mine Shouhei , Kado Yuji , Watanabe Masahiro , Fukuda Yohta , Abe Yoshito , Ueda Tadashi , Kawarabayasi Yutaka , Inoue Tsuyoshi , Ishikawa Kazuhiko
Published: September 2014

The β‐N‐acetylglucosaminidase from the hyperthermophilic bacteria Thermotoga maritima (NagA) hydrolyzes chitooligomers into monomer β‐N‐acetylglucosamine. Although NagA contains a highly conserved sequence motif found in glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 3, it can be distinguished from other GH family 3 β‐N‐acetylglucosaminidases by its substrate specificity and biological assembly. To investigate its unique structure around the active site, we determined the crystal structure of NagA at a resolution of 2.43 Å. The NagA forms a dimer structure in which the monomer structure consists of an N‐ and a C‐terminal domain. The dimer structure exhibits high solvation free energy for dimer formation. From mutagenesis analyses, the catalytic nucleophile and general acid–base residues were supposed to be Asp245 and His173, respectively. The most striking characteristic of NagA was that it forms the active site cleft from the N‐terminal domain and the C‐terminal domain of the next polypeptide chain, whereas the other two‐domain GH family 3 enzymes form the site within the same molecule. Another striking feature is that the loops located around the active site show high flexibility. One of the flexible loops contains the general acid–base His173 and was thought to be involved in substrate distortion during catalysis. In addition, a loop in close contact with the active site, which comes from the C‐terminal domain of the next polypeptide chain, contains a region of high B‐factor values, indicating the possibility that the C‐terminal domain is involved in catalysis. These results suggest that the dimer structure of NagA is important for its activity and thermostability.

Database

Structural data are available in the Protein Data Bank under accession number 3WO8.

Structured digital abstract

NagA and NagA bind by x-ray crystallography (View interaction)
Unconventional secretion of synuclein‐γ promotes tumor cell invasion
Authors: Liu Caiyun , Qu Like , Lian Shenyi , Tian Zhihua , Zhao Chuanke , Meng Lin , Shou Chengchao
Published: September 2014

Synuclein‐γ (SNCG) is a chaperone protein and exists mainly in the cytoplasm. SNCG confers chemoresistance, and is a potential unfavorable biomarker for multiple types of cancer. Our previous work demonstrated that SNCG could be detected in the serum of cancer patients and the medium of cultured cancer cells, but the mechanism of SNCG secretion and its biological roles are unknown. Here, we showed that SNCG levels in the culture medium were positively correlated with cancer cell densities and the concentrations of fetal bovine serum added. SNCG secretion was unaffected by brefeldin A, an inhibitor of the classic protein transport pathway, but was antagonized by exosome inhibitor, lysosome inhibitor, ABC transporter inhibitor, and phosphatidylinositide 3‐kinase inhibitor, and knockdown of Rab27a. Ultracentrifugation fractionation revealed that intracellular SNCG was present as both free and vesicle‐associated forms, but that the extracellular SNCG was mainly free. The results of reciprocal coimmunoprecipitation experiments showed an interaction between SNCG and flotillin‐2, a marker of exosomes and lipid rafts. Moreover, we demonstrated that SNCG, both secreted from tumor cells and exogenously added, markedly promoted cancer cell migration and invasion, but had no effect on noncancerous cells. These findings suggest that SNCG is actively secreted by cancer cells via an unconventional secretion pathway and contributes to aggressive phenotypes of cancer cells.

Structured digital abstract

• Flotillin-2 physically interacts with SNCG by anti bait coip (1, 2).
Diversification of stream invertebrate communities by large wood
Authors: Pilotto Francesca , Bertoncin Andrea , Harvey Gemma L. , Wharton Geraldene , Pusch Martin T.
Published: September 2014

To evaluate the effects of large wood (LW) on benthic habitats and macroinvertebrates in sand‐bed lowland rivers, we compared invertebrate communities recorded on four pieces of LW (12 samples in total) and around them (60 samples) with those in four control sites in the same river (four samples).

Mean flow velocity was 32% lower in the channel areas surrounding the LW than in control sites, while median sediment grain size was 50% higher, and the organic matter content of the riverbed sediments was 287% higher. At the same time, habitat conditions showed threefold to 1000‐fold increases in variance for five key abiotic habitat descriptors in the surrounding channel extending at least 60 cm upstream and 160 cm downstream of the LW.

Three habitat patches typically occurred around the LW pieces: scouring pools, sand bars and accumulations of organic matter. These patches were colonised by distinctive invertebrate communities (e.g. accumulations of organic matter and gravel hosted 15 and 2 indicator taxa, respectively) that overall harboured 110% more taxa and exhibited a 168% higher diversity than control sites. The LW itself contributed only a small fraction to these increases, exhibiting a 15% increase in taxa richness and a 21% increase in species diversity compared to the control sites.

The diversification of benthic invertebrate communities colonising streambed sediments around LW could be directly linked to the much more heterogeneous habitat conditions recorded there. Thus, local additions of large wood within river restoration programmes have the potential to promote the establishment of diverse invertebrate communities in extended areas of a river channel.
Agricultural peatland restoration: effects of land‐use change on greenhouse gas (CO2 and CH4) fluxes in the Sacramento‐San Joaquin Delta
Authors: Knox Sara Helen , Sturtevant Cove , Matthes Jaclyn Hatala , Koteen Laurie , Verfaillie Joseph , Baldocchi Dennis
Published: September 2014

Agricultural drainage of organic soils has resulted in vast soil subsidence and contributed to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations. The Sacramento‐San Joaquin Delta in California was drained over a century ago for agriculture and human settlement and has since experienced subsidence rates that are among the highest in the world. It is recognized that drained agriculture in the Delta is unsustainable in the long‐term, and to help reverse subsidence and capture carbon (C) there is an interest in restoring drained agricultural land‐use types to flooded conditions. However, flooding may increase methane (CH4) emissions. We conducted a full year of simultaneous eddy covariance measurements at two conventional drained agricultural peatlands (a pasture and a corn field) and three flooded land‐use types (a rice paddy and two restored wetlands) to assess the impact of drained to flooded land‐use change on CO2 and CH4 fluxes in the Delta. We found that the drained sites were net C and greenhouse gas (GHG) sources, releasing up to 341 g C m−2 yr−1 as CO2 and 11.4 g C m−2 yr−1 as CH4. Conversely, the restored wetlands were net sinks of atmospheric CO2, sequestering up to 397 g C m−2 yr−1. However, they were large sources of CH4, with emissions ranging from 39 to 53 g C m−2 yr−1. In terms of the full GHG budget, the restored wetlands could be either GHG sources or sinks. Although the rice paddy was a small atmospheric CO2 sink, when considering harvest and CH4 emissions, it acted as both a C and GHG source. Annual photosynthesis was similar between sites, but flooding at the restored sites inhibited ecosystem respiration, making them net CO2 sinks. This study suggests that converting drained agricultural peat soils to flooded land‐use types can help reduce or reverse soil subsidence and reduce GHG emissions.
Taxation and the Unequal Reach of the State: Mapping State Capacity in Ecuador
Authors: Harbers Imke
Published: September 2014

Even though the unequal reach of the state has become an important concern in the literature on developing democracies in Latin America, empirical measures of intracountry variation in state capacity are scarce. So far, attempts to develop valid measures of the reach of the state have often been hampered by inadequate data. Leveraging insights from national‐level scholarship, this article proposes a tax‐based measure to capture such intracountry variation. Drawing on a comprehensive data set of municipal finance and estimates of economic activity derived from nighttime lights, it maps state capacity in Ecuador. The article validates the measure on the basis of survey data collected by the Latin American Public Opinion Project. A multilevel analysis demonstrates that citizens tend to be more satisfied with the services provided by the state in municipalities with higher state capacity, which strengthens confidence that the measure picks up relevant differences.
Impact of Groundwater Flow and Energy Load on Multiple Borehole Heat Exchangers
Authors: Emad Dehkordi S. , Schincariol Robert A. , Olofsson Bo
Published: September 2014

The effect of array configuration, that is, number, layout, and spacing, on the performance of multiple borehole heat exchangers (BHEs) is generally known under the assumption of fully conductive transport. The effect of groundwater flow on BHE performance is also well established, but most commonly for single BHEs. In multiple‐BHE systems the effect of groundwater advection can be more complicated due to the induced thermal interference between the boreholes. To ascertain the influence of groundwater flow and borehole arrangement, this study investigates single‐ and multi‐BHE systems of various configurations. Moreover, the influence of energy load balance is also examined. The results from corresponding cases with and without groundwater flow as well as balanced and unbalanced energy loads are cross‐compared. The groundwater flux value, 10−7 m/s, is chosen based on the findings of previous studies on groundwater flow interaction with BHEs and thermal response tests. It is observed that multi‐BHE systems with balanced loads are less sensitive to array configuration attributes and groundwater flow, in the long‐term. Conversely, multi‐BHE systems with unbalanced loads are influenced by borehole array configuration as well as groundwater flow; these effects become more pronounced with time, unlike when the load is balanced. Groundwater flow has more influence on stabilizing loop temperatures, compared to array characteristics. Although borehole thermal energy storage (BTES) systems have a balanced energy load function, preliminary investigation on their efficiency shows a negative impact by groundwater which is due to their dependency on high temperature gradients between the boreholes and surroundings.
Ductal carcinoma in situ with distorting sclerosis on core biopsy may be predictive of upstaging on excision
Authors: Walters Laura L , Pang Judy C , Zhao Lili , Jorns Julie M
Published: September 2014

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine clinicopathological features of patients with core biopsy diagnoses of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) that may predict invasion on subsequent excision, as upstaging has significant implications regarding the need for axillary staging via sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB).

Methods and results

We identified 186 patients with a diagnosis of DCIS as the highest‐stage lesion on core biopsy. Pathological and clinical features were assessed via slide and chart review, respectively. Distorting sclerosis was defined as irregular angulation of glands involved by DCIS but lacking definite invasion according to histology and/or immunohistochemical staining for myoepithelial markers. Thirty‐two of 186 (17.2%) cases had upstaging to either microinvasive (nine) or invasive (23) ductal carcinoma. SLNB was performed in 29 of 32 (90.6%) cases with upstaging and in 55 of 154 (35.7%) cases without (P < 0.0001). Upstaging was significantly associated with the presurgical variables of radiological mass (P = 0.009) and distorting sclerosis (P = 0.0005) and the postsurgical feature of multifocality (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is frequently performed for patients with upstaging from DCIS on core biopsy to microinvasive or invasive carcinoma on excision. DCIS with distorting sclerosis without definite invasion on core biopsy may be predictive of upstaging. This feature may be useful in selecting patients to undergo SLNB at the time of excision to avoid reoperation.
Second‐hand clothing consumption: a cross‐cultural comparison between American and Chinese young consumers
Authors: Xu Yingjiao , Chen Yizhuo , Burman Ritika , Zhao Hongshan
Published: September 2014

There has been an enormous increase in the economic power and global scope of the second‐hand clothing trade since the early 1990s. Young consumers are a major driver behind the growth of the second‐hand clothing industry in the US. While the stigma of buying second‐hand clothing is fading in the western countries, little is known about second‐hand clothing consumption in the Asian countries. The purpose of this study is to empirically investigate young consumers' behaviours towards second‐hand clothing from a cross‐cultural perspective in the US and Chinese contexts. Results of this study indicated significant differences in young consumers' second‐hand clothing consumption behaviour between the two countries in the following aspects: past purchase experience, perceived values and concerns, perceived subjective norm and future purchase intention.
Developing a potential prebiotic of yogurt: growth of Bifidobacterium and yogurt cultures with addition of glycomacropeptide hydrolysate
Authors: Tian Qian , Wang Ting‐Ting , Tang Xi , Han Ming‐Zhao , Leng Xiao‐Jing , Mao Xue‐Ying
Published: September 2014

This study is aimed at investigating the feasibility of casein glycomacropeptide (GMP) hydrolysates as potential prebiotics in yogurt. The growth performance of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (Bb12) was determined in the presence of GMP hydrolysates produced by the action of proteolytic enzymes (trypsin and papain) with various degrees of hydrolysis. The growth‐promoting effect of GHP on Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcu thermophilus were also evaluated. Results showed that the optimum hydrolysis time of GMP with trypsin or papain for Bb12 growth promotion was 2 and 0.5 h, respectively. Compared with GMP and its trypsin hydrolysate, the GMP hydrolysate produced with papain (GHP) was the best for Bb12 growth, which obtained the highest viable count (9.3 log cfu mL−1) and the lowest pH of 4.69. The obtained GHP significantly improved the growth of S. thermophilus (P < 0.05), while it had little effect on the growth of L. bulgaricus (P > 0.05)., The viable count of Bb12 of the yogurt obtained with the addition of 1.5% GHP was about four times higher than that of the control without GHP addition. The growth‐promoting effect of GHP might be related to its high content of Glu, Leu and Ala while had no direct relationship with sialic acid content.
Effects of β‐glucans on properties of soya bean protein isolate thermal gels
Authors: Zhao Cheng‐Bin , Wu Fei , Li Yong‐Ping , Liu Xiao‐Ling
Published: September 2014

The effects of concentration and molecular weight of oat β‐glucans on properties of soya bean protein isolate (SPI) thermal gels prepared by heating at 90℃for 30 min were investigated. Compared with control (free of β‐glucan) formulations, the presence of β‐glucans (0.5–1.5%, w/v) largely enhanced storage modulus (G′) and texture properties of SPI (12%, w/v) thermal gels measured by dynamic oscillatory rheometry and texture profile analysis, which were developed as increasing β‐glucan concentration and molecular weight. It is possible that β‐glucans could cause the formation of protein aggregates to produce gels through hydrophobic interactions. Mixed gel systems at low ionic strength showed higher G′ resulting from the lower denaturation temperature of SPI, which was beneficial to the formation of gel structure. In addition, although adding a certain amount of β‐glucan into SPI reduced water‐holding capacity of mixed gels, high molecular weight of β‐glucan improved their water‐holding capacity compared to control formulations attributed to the improvement of the structural integrity of the mixed gel network.
Influences of red pitaya fruit puree and gelling agents on the physico‐mechanical properties and quality changes of gummy confections
Authors: Hani Norziah M. , Romli Siti Rashima , Ahmad Mehraj
Published: September 2014

Gelatin (GGC) and high‐methoxyl pectin (PGC)‐based gummy confections incorporated with 20–25% (w/w) red pitaya fruit puree (RPFP; Hylocereus polyrhizus) were prepared at various ratios of gelling agent to water (gelatin:water ≈ 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:2; pectin:water ≈ 1:5, 1:7.5, 1:10). GGC and PGC showed higher antioxidant activity with increasing RPFP content. Hardness, gumminess and Young's moduli decreased significantly in GGC and PGC with increasing water content and RPFP, implying a marked decrease in rigidity and formation of flexible polymer gel networks. Descriptive sensory analysis deduced that RPFP could be used in making gummy candies with no adverse effect on the texture and overall acceptance. It was concluded that the incorporation of RPFP gave desirable texture, enhanced antioxidant activity and provided a natural vibrant red colour to the gummy confections.
Biotechnological characterisation of exocellular proteases produced by enological Hanseniaspora isolates
Authors: Mateo Jose Juan , Maicas Sergi , Thieβen Carina
Published: September 2014

Twenty‐six enological Hanseniaspora isolates were identified by ITS PCR‐RFLP and D1/D2 domain of 26S rDNA sequencing and assayed for exocellular protease production. Based on qualitative data, six isolates, belonging to H. guilliermondii, H. valbyensis and H. occidentalis species, were selected to continue the study. Analytical procedure was optimised, and protease activities were quantified and characterised on the basis of different biotechnological factors. Protease activity was quite glucose, fructose and ethanol content independent, but divalent cation affects activity; these data support that they were aspartic proteases. The effect of 2‐mercaptoethanol suggests the importance of disulphide bonds to maintain the structure of the active centre. Our results show these enzymes could be suitable for using in biotechnological processes at neutral pH, such as cheese, bread and meat industries. This is, to our knowledge, the first work showing the induction process to induce and characterise proteolytic activity in Hanseniaspora isolates.
Anti‐inflammatory activity of rosemary extracts obtained by supercritical carbon dioxide enriched in carnosic acid and carnosol
Authors: Arranz Elena , Jaime Laura , García‐Risco Monica R. , Fornari Tiziana , Reglero Guillermo , Santoyo Susana
Published: September 2014

The in vitro anti‐inflammatory activity of supercritical rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) extracts (rosemary A and B) is been reported in this study. To achieve that, THP‐1 macrophages were activated using lipopolysaccharide or human ox‐LDL and secretion and gene expression of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐10 were evaluated, as well as COX‐2 gene expression. Results indicated that both rosemary extracts (A & B) exhibit high anti‐inflammatory activity although at a higher extent in case of rosemary B extract (5 μg mL−1), representing a higher quantity of carnosic acid and carnosol than rosemary A. When comparing the activity of the extract to the standard itself, the anti‐inflammatory activity of standards of carnosic acid and carnosol was not as intense as that obtained with rosemary B. These data indicated that although carnosic acid content in the extracts is considered as the main anti‐inflammatory compound, a synergistic interaction with other compounds may play a significant role in enhancing its activity. Results provided the grounds for possible increase in the application of supercritical rosemary extracts in food formulations for mitigation or prevention of inflammatory diseases.
Portal hypertension: pathophysiology, diagnosis and management
Authors: Bloom S. , Kemp W. , Lubel J.
Published: September 2014

Portal hypertension is an important complication of liver disease. As a result of elevated pressures within the portal vein several complications can arise, including the development of oesophageal and gastric varices, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy as well as complications secondary to circulatory dysfunction, such as hepatorenal syndrome, portopulmonary syndrome and hepatopulmonary syndrome. This review outlines the pathogenesis and diagnosis of portal hypertension and outlines the management of these various important clinical sequelae. The management of oesophageal and gastric varices is particularly important, and both the emergency management together with prophylactic management of this condition are described.
Pike (Esox lucius) could have been an exclusive human introduction to Ireland after all: a comment on Pedreschi et al. (2014)
Authors: Ensing Dennis
Published: September 2014

A recent publication (Pedreschi et al., 2014, Journal of Biogeography, 41, 548–560) casts doubt over the status of pike (Esox lucius) as a non‐native species in Ireland by reporting two distinct genetic groups of pike present: one a human introduction in the Middle Ages, the other hypothesized to result from natural colonization after the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). While the existence of two groups is not disputed, the hypothesized natural colonization scenario conflicts with the sequence in which the islands of Britain and Ireland became isolated from Europe after the LGM. An alternative natural colonization scenario raised herein was rejected, leaving an earlier, two‐phase, human introduction of pike from Britain or Europe to Ireland as a realistic alternative hypothesis explaining the results of Pedreschi et al. (2014). This leaves the debates on human introduction versus natural colonization, introduced versus native species status, and pike management in Ireland wide open.
Sensor‐Based Electromagnetic Navigation to Facilitate Implantation of Left Ventricular Leads in Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: DÖRING MICHAEL , SOMMER PHILIPP , ROLF SASCHA , LUCAS JOHANNES , BREITHARDT OLE A. , HINDRICKS GERHARD , RICHTER SERGIO
Published: September 2014

Electromagnetic Navigation for CRT Implantation

Introduction

Implantation of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices can be challenging, time consuming, and fluoroscopy intense. To facilitate placement of left ventricular (LV) leads, a novel electromagnetic navigation system (MediGuide™, St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN, USA) has been developed, displaying real‐time 3‐D location of sensor‐embedded delivery tools superimposed on prerecorded X‐ray cine‐loops of coronary sinus venograms. We report our experience and advanced progress in the use of this new electromagnetic tracking system to guide LV lead implantation.

Methods and Results

Between January 2012 and December 2013, 71 consecutive patients (69 ± 9 years, 76% male) were implanted with a CRT device using the new electromagnetic tracking system. Demographics, procedural data, and periprocedural adverse events were gathered. The impact of the operator's experience, optimized workflow, and improved software technology on procedural data were analyzed. LV lead implantation was successfully achieved in all patients without severe adverse events. Total procedure time measured 87 ± 37 minutes and the median total fluoroscopy time (skin‐to‐skin) was 4.9 (2.5–7.8) minutes with a median dose‐area‐product of 476 (260–1056) cGy*cm2. An additional comparison with conventional CRT device implantations showed a significant reduction in fluoroscopy time from 8.0 (5.8; 11.5) to 4.5 (2.8; 7.3) minutes (P = 0.016) and radiation dose from 603 (330; 969) to 338 (176; 680) cGy*cm2, respectively (P = 0.044 ).

Conclusion

Use of the new navigation system enables safe and successful LV lead placement with improved orientation and significantly reduced radiation exposure during CRT implantation.
The potential for vertical bone regeneration via maxillary periosteal elevation
Authors: Mouraret Sylvain , Von Kaeppler Ericka , Bardet Claire , Hunter Daniel J. , Chaussain Catherine , Bouchard Philippe , Helms Jill A.
Published: September 2014

Background

While many studies have been performed on the characteristics and regenerative capacity of long bone periosteum, the craniofacial periosteum remains poorly understood.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential for a maxillary periosteum tunnelling procedure to induce vertical alveolar bone regeneration.

Materials and Methods

We employed a murine injury model that activates skeletal stem cells in the periosteum without overtly damaging the underlying cortical bone, preserving the integrity of the long bone and maxilla, and avoiding the introduction of pathological motion at the injury site. Further, we introduced a collagen sponge to serve as a scaffold, providing the necessary space for vertical bone regeneration.

Results

Periosteal elevation alone resulted in bone formation in the tibia and delayed bone resorption in the maxilla. With the presence of the collagen sponge, new bone formation occurred in the maxilla.

Conclusions

Periosteal response to injury varies with anatomical location, so conclusions from long bone studies should not be extrapolated for craniofacial applications. Murine maxillary periosteum has the osteogenic potential to induce vertical alveolar bone regeneration.
Results of the validation study of the Psodisk instrument, and determination of the cut‐off scores for varying degrees of impairment
Authors: Sampogna F. , Linder D. , Romano G.V. , Gualberti G. , Merolla R. , di Luzio Paparatti U.
Published: September 2014

Background

The Psodisk is a 10‐item visual instrument, aimed at measuring the burden of psoriasis on patients.

Objectives

To validate the Psodisk in a large sample of patients with psoriasis, and to define categories for the interpretation of the scores.

Methods

Data were collected in 21 dermatological centres. The Psodisk was administered at baseline (t0), after 2 or 3 days (t1) and about 3 months (t2) after baseline, and data were used to assess validity and reliability of the instrument. The cut‐off scores were determined using the perception of the severity of the disease by the patient as anchor point.

Results

The evaluable population consisted of 320 patients at baseline, with a mean Psodisk score of 36.9. The concurrent validity of the instrument was confirmed by the high correlation with Skindex‐29 and DLQI. Factor analyses selected a single factor, which alone explained almost 60% of the variance. Cronbach's coefficient alpha was 0.927, suggesting a good reliability. Test–retest reliability was verified by a Pearson's correlation coefficient between the Psodisk scores at baseline and t1 of 0.924. Five categories of disease burden were defined: 1. minimal (<9); 2. mild (9–15); 3. moderate (16–30); 4. marked (31–50); 5. severe (>50).

Conclusion

The Psodisk showed good psychometric properties. The definition of the cut‐off scores will be useful to evaluate the burden of psoriasis on patients.
An increased risk of non‐melanoma skin cancer during TNF‐inhibitor treatment in psoriasis patients compared to rheumatoid arthritis patients probably relates to disease‐related factors
Authors: van Lümig P.P.M. , Menting S.P. , van den Reek J.M.P.A. , Spuls P.I. , van Riel P.L.C.M. , van de Kerkhof P.C.M. , Fransen J. , Kievit W. , de Jong E.M.G.J.
Published: September 2014

Background

Concerns exist about a risk of non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in psoriasis patients and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients treated with TNF‐inhibitors. However, current data also show that in some psoriasis patients, NMSC is diagnosed relatively short after the start of TNF‐inhibitors, which suggests that these NMSC can be explained by previous therapies instead of by TNF‐inhibitor therapy.

Objective

To investigate whether there was a difference in time until first NMSC and the rate of NMSC between psoriasis and RA patients on TNF‐inhibitors.

Methods

Time until first NMSC and the rate of NMSC were compared between psoriasis and RA patients from the same region treated with TNF‐inhibitors and followed up for at least one year in prospective cohort studies, by using Cox regression and Poisson regression. Both analyses were corrected for confounders (age, gender, disease duration, prior NMSC, duration of anti‐TNF and other systemic therapies).

Results

The NMSC risk was significantly higher in the psoriasis group [fully adjusted HR 6.0 (1.6–22.4 95%CI)] with a shorter time until first NMSC in psoriasis compared to RA. By Poisson regression, psoriasis patients had a 5.5 (2.2–13.4 95%CI) higher rate of NMSC.

Conclusion

The time until first NMSC was significantly shorter and the rate of NMSC was significantly higher in psoriasis compared with RA. This indicates that disease‐related factors like phototherapy may be important contributing factors to NMSC diagnosed in psoriasis patients treated with TNF‐inhibitors.
Evidence that microgynes of Myrmica rubra ants are social parasites that attack old host colonies
Authors: Schär S. , Nash D. R.
Published: September 2014

Ant microgynes are miniaturized queen forms found together with normal queens (macrogynes) in species occurring across the ant phylogeny. Their role is not yet fully understood: in some cases, they seem to be nonparasitic alternative reproductive morphs, in others incipient social parasites, and thus potential models for studying the evolution of social parasitism. Whether they are regarded as parasitic or not has traditionally been based on genetic differentiation from syntopic macrogynes and/or the queen/worker ratio of their offspring rather than measuring fitness traits. We confirmed previously reported genetic differentiation between microgynes and macrogynes of Myrmica rubra in a population studied for the first time. Further, we measured virulence and infectivity of M. rubra microgynes in a controlled laboratory experiment. Nests headed only by macrogynes (controls), only by microgynes, and naturally and artificially mixed nests were kept under identical conditions. We found reduction in worker numbers of both naturally and artificially mixed macrogyne/microgyne nests compared with controls, and strong reduction but also surprising variation in fitness of nests headed only by microgynes. Microgyne nests produced workers, males and microgynes. Microgynes did not themselves reproduce in artificially mixed nests, but reproduced most in naturally mixed nests that had lost their macrogyne queen. This, together with higher mortality of field‐collected macrogyne queens from naturally infested colonies and greater estimated relative age of macrogyne queens in naturally infected nests, suggests that they preferentially exploit older host colonies. We conclude that M. rubra microgynes are intraspecific social parasites specialized on exploiting old host colonies.
Morphology and Molecular Phylogeny of Three Cyrtophorid Ciliates (Protozoa, Ciliophora) from China, Including Two New Species, Chilodonella parauncinata sp. n. and Chlamydonella irregularis sp. n.
Authors: Qu Zhishuai , Pan Hongbo , Hu Xiaozhong , Li Jiqiu , Al‐Farraj Saleh A. , Al‐Rasheid Khaled A. S. , Yi Zhenzhen
Published: September 2014

This study investigated the morphology and molecular characteristics of three interesting free‐living cyrtophorid ciliates, including two new species, isolated from China: Chilodonella parauncinata sp. n. can be identified by its elongated body shape, with a sharp protrusion in the left anterior part, cell size ca. 60 × 25 μm in vivo, five right and 6–7 left kineties with kinetosomes densely arranged, and a curved cyrtos. Chlamydonella irregularis sp. n. differs from its congeners by the oval body shape, cell size 50–60 × 25–40 μm in vivo, irregular shape of macronucleus, 30–40 club‐shaped ventral protuberances, and 17 somatic kineties. Two isolates of Chlamydonella derouxi Song, 2003, collected from an intertidal area in Shandong and a mangrove wetland in Guangdong respectively, correspond well with two previous descriptions, but differ in comprising more basal bodies in left and right equatorial fragments and in having more finger‐like protuberances on the ventral side. Phylogenetic analyses based on the small subunit rRNA gene sequences showed that C. parauncinata sp. n. clustered with Chilodonella uncinata, but was a well‐outlined species of the genus, and C. irregularis sp. n. and C. derouxi grouped in the family Lynchellidae with their congeners to form the monophyletic genus Chlamydonella.
Variable survival across low pH gradients in freshwater fish species
Authors: Jellyman P. G. , Harding J. S.
Published: September 2014

A series of 14 day experiments was conducted on five common New Zealand fish species (redfin bully Gobiomorphus huttoni, inanga Galaxias maculatus, brown trout Salmo trutta, longfin eel Anguilla dieffenbachii and koaro Galaxias brevipinnis) to assess the effect of pH on survival and changes in body mass. No species survived in water of pH <4 although there was 100% survival of all adults at pH 4·5, G. maculatus larvae were also tested and had high mortality at this pH. Results suggest that adults are tolerant of low‐pH waters; however, successful remediation of anthropogenically acidified streams will require an understanding of the susceptibility to low pH on different life cycle stages.
Fish reproductive guilds downstream of dams
Authors: Vasconcelos L. P. , Alves D. C. , Gomes L. C.
Published: September 2014

Fish reproductive guilds were used to evaluate the responses of species with different reproductive strategies during two different periods of post‐dam construction. The data used for the comparisons were collected in the upper Paraná River floodplain (Brazil), downstream of the Porto Primavera dam, 2 and 10 years after impoundment. The abundance (catch per unit effort, CPUE), species richness, evenness and structure of communities, all within reproductive guilds, were used to test the hypothesis that these metrics vary spatially and temporally. The influence of damming on species structure and the diversity of fish reproductive guilds varied spatiotemporally, and species with opportunistic reproductive strategies tended to be less affected. Conversely, long‐distance migratory species responded more markedly to spatiotemporal variations, indicating that the ecosystem dynamics exert greater effects on populations of these species. Thus, the effects of a dam, even if attenuated, may extend over several years, especially downstream. This finding emphasizes the importance of maintaining large undammed tributaries downstream of reservoirs.
Production of Low‐Fat Emulsified Cooked Sausages Using Amorphous Cellulose Gel
Authors: Almeida Cássia Mara , Wagner Roger , Mascarin Laura Gizele , Zepka Leila Queiroz , Campagnol Paulo Cezar Bastianello
Published: September 2014

Emulsified cooked sausages (beef: 52.5%; pork: 15%; and pork back fat: 20%) were produced with 25, 50, 75 or 100% of their pork back fat content replaced by amorphous cellulose gel (ACG). The physicochemical characteristics (chemical composition, color and texture), fatty acid content and sensory profiles were measured. The moisture content increased and the fat content decreased with increasing fat replacement by ACG, which influenced the color and texture parameters. The 100% replacement of pork back fat decreased the n‐6/n‐3 ratio and increased the contents of vaccenic acid and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA‐9c11t). Consumers observed no significant differences in color, aroma, flavor, texture and overall acceptance among the treatments. The results indicated that the replacement of up to 100% of pork back fat by ACG can be carried out without prejudice to the acceptance of the product, which allows the preparation of emulsified cooked sausages with fat reduction of approximately 84%.

Practical Applications

In this study, we evaluated the use of amorphous cellulose gel (ACG) as a substitute for pork back fat in emulsified cooked sausage. We observed that the ACG did not affect the sensory acceptance, even with 100% replacement of pork back fat. Apart from significant fat reduction, the sausages produced with 0% pork back fat showed a better fatty acid profile. We believe that these findings may be useful for the production of emulsified cooked sausages with healthier characteristics, since besides bringing benefits to the society, it will promote a positive image for the meat industry, which is heavily criticized because of the high fat content of meat products.
Flood insurance in England – an assessment of the current and newly proposed insurance scheme in the context of rising flood risk
Authors: Surminski S. , Eldridge J.
Published: September 2014

Flooding is the largest natural disaster risk in England and it is expected to rise even further with a changing climate. Agreeing on how we pay for this now and in the future is a challenge, with competing drivers such as fairness, economic efficiency, political feasibility and public acceptance all playing their part. We investigate this in the context of recent efforts to reform the provision of flood insurance, which have been debated between government and industry over the last three years. Recognising the challenge of rising losses and increasing costs we are particularly interested in how the existing arrangement and the new flood insurance proposal (Flood Re) reflect on the need for physical risk reduction. By applying our analytical framework we find an absence of formal incentive mechanisms for risk reduction in the existing and proposed Flood Re scheme. We identify the barriers for applying insurance to risk reduction and point to some possible modifications in the Flood Re proposal to deliver a greater link between risk transfer and risk reduction. Our investigation offers some insights into the challenges of designing and implementing flood insurance schemes – a task that is currently being considered in a range of countries, including several developing countries, who hope to apply flood insurance as a tool to increase their climate resilience.
Quantitative comparison of segmentation algorithms for FIB‐SEM images of porous media
Authors: SALZER M. , PRILL T. , SPETTL A. , JEULIN D. , SCHLADITZ K. , SCHMIDT V.
Published: September 2014

Focused ion beam tomography has proven to be capable of imaging porous structures on a nano‐scale. However, due to shine‐through artefacts, common segmentation algorithms often lead to severe dislocation of individual structures in z‐direction. Recently, a number of approaches have been developed, which take into account the specific nature of focused ion beam‐scanning electron microscope images for porous media. In the present study, we analyse three of these approaches by comparing their performance based on simulated focused ion beam‐scanning electron microscope images. Performance is measured by determining the amount of misclassified voxels as well as the fidelity of structural characteristics. Based on this analysis we conclude that each algorithm has certain strengths and weaknesses and we determine the scenarios for which each approach might be the best choice
Analyzing the differentially expressed genes and pathway cross‐talk in aggressive breast cancer
Authors: Chen Wen‐Yan , Wu Fang , You Zhen‐Yu , Zhang Zhan‐Min , Guo Yu‐Ling , Zhong Lu‐Xing
Published: September 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the genes and pathways involved in the aggressive breast cancer cells.

Methods

The gene expression profiles of GSE40057, including four aggressive breast cell lines and six less aggressive cell lines, were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The gene differential expression analysis was carried out with limma software with the method of Bayes for multiple tests. The gene ontology (GO) term enrichment and pathway cross‐talk analysis were performed with the online tool of DAVID and Cytoscape software.

Results

A total of 401 differentially expressed genes (DEG), such as pentraxin 3 (PTX3), snail family zinc finger 2 (SNAI2), interleukin‐8/6 (IL‐8/6), osteonectin (SPARC), matrix metallopeptidase‐1 (MMP‐1) and Ras‐related protein Rab‐25 (Rab 25), were identified between aggressive and less aggressive cell lines. They were mainly enriched in the GO terms of response to wounding, negative regulation of cell proliferation and calcium binding. Pathways in cancer dysfunctionally interacted with glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism (P < 0.0001), basal transcription factors (P < 0.0001), tyrosine metabolism (P < 0.0001), calcium signaling pathway (P = 0.0021), FcγR‐mediated phagocytosis (P = 0.0022), metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450 (P = 0.0097) and phagosome (P = 0.0102).

Conclusion

The screened aggressive cancer‐associated DEG (PTX3, SNAI2, IL‐8/6, SPARC, MMP‐1 and Rab25) and significant pathways (calcium signaling pathway, tyrosine metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism) give us new insights into the mechanism of aggressive breast cancer cells, and these DEG may become promising target genes in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.