bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VISUAL ASYMMETRY IN THE PERCEPTION OF FACES AND FIELD INDEPENDENCE
Authors: Oltman Philip K. , Ehrlichman Howard , Cox Patricia W.
Published: August 2014

In a sample of 28 college males, it was found that the degree of lateral specialization of a right‐hemisphere function, the perception of faces, showed a correlation of .45 (p < .01) with extent of field‐independent performance, as assessed by a composite score based on the Embedded‐Figures Test, the Rod‐and‐Frame Test, and ratings on the Articulation‐of‐Body‐Concept Scale. In a second study with 16 female and 10 male college subjects using the Group Embedded‐Figures Test, field‐independent subjects again showed greater lateralization of face perception (r = .43, p < .05). Based on Witkin's view of field independence as a manifestation of psychological differentiation, possible links between extent of differentiation at the psychological and neurophysiological levels are suggested.
MOMENTARY FORGETTING: ENTERING AND LEAVING THE TOT STATE
Authors: Ryan Michael P.
Published: August 2014

The frequent description of tip‐of‐the‐tongue CTOT) states as subthreshold memory traces is challenged by data showing that TOT genesis and TOT recovery are distinct processes. While encoding strategy is a strong predictor of TOT activity in paired‐associate forgetting as compared to several estimates of response strength, neither factor influences the order in which hints cue retrieval. It is concluded that TOTs represent a failure of decoding processes in mediated retrieval.
THE VALIDITY OF CLAUSAL PROCESSING STRATEGIES AT THE DISCOURSE LEVEL
Authors: Hurtig Richard
Published: August 2014

In the last few years, considerable research in psycholinguistics has sought to test the hypothesis that the clause is a relevant segmentation unit in the processing of speech. The current interest in linguistic contexts and discourse analysis has raised the question of the validity of the clausal processing strategy suggested by Bever, Garrett, and Hurtig (1973). They demonstrated that the alternative readings of deep structure ambiguous sentences are available during the processing of a clause but that at the clause boundary only one reading remains available. They argued that such evidence supports a view of speech processing as operating clause by clause. It has, however, been suggested that the use of ambiguous sentences in linguistic argumentation or in the psycholinguistic investigation of speech processing is unjustified since phenomenally such sentences are never ambiguously perceived in context.

Two sentence fragment completion experiments are presented to demonstrate that the clausal processing strategy is operative in the processing of an auditory speech signal and that the strategy is also operative in the larger discourse context. The analysis of the latency to completion data support the hypothesis that the clausal processing strategy demonstrated in research on sentences in isolation is also operative in connected discourse.

This finding is consistent with the functional interactionist model of language proposed by Bever (1970) and Fodor, Bever, and Garrett (1974). Thus the notion of interactionism can be extended to account for discourse phenomena by characterizing the relationship of sentence grammar, discourse grammar, and the psychological processes operative in the encoding of sentences and discourses in the following way: The sentence (clause) is the on‐line perceptual unit while the discourse (proposition/idea set/logical event space) is the unit of cognitive (semantic) memory. That is, the discourse is the object of analysis at the cognitive organizational level while the sentence (syntactic structure) is the object of analysis at the production/comprehension level. Such an hypothesis thereby treats the research on sentences and discourse in linguistics as well as psychology as interactive models of the various subcomponents of a total linguistic‐cognitive system.
Review: is interplay between nanomaterial and membrane technology the way forward for desalination?
Authors: Goh Pei S. , Ismail Ahmad F.
Published: August 2014

Nanomaterials, which have been the greatest impetus to technological and industrial development in the twenty‐first century, have spurred significant innovations and knowledge enhancement in the environmental applications particularly to revolutionize century‐old conventional water treatment processes. The established protocols to prepare such hybrid nanocomposites have triggered blossoming interest and to realize most of these applications practically. Similarly, engineered nanomaterials unfold avenues and offer myriad opportunities to explore their impact in various fields and have certainly a great impact on the future of desalination practice. After the review and examination of published materials describing the development of nano‐enabled membranes that have been undertaken in recent years, this short review aims at stimulating new ideas and thoughts in the membrane desalination field where we are strongly convinced that it will represent one of the key areas for the realization of a sustainable generation of materials that can benefit mankind. More particularly, this review draws attention to the incorporation of inorganic nanomaterials into conventional polymeric membranes and deals with the practical challenges to implementation of technology for desalination applications. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Outcomes in thoracic surgical management of non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wyler von Ballmoos Moritz C. , Johnstone David W.
Published: August 2014

Thoracic surgeons traditionally have measured their outcomes in terms of mortality, complication rates, recurrence patterns, and long‐term survival for their cancer patients. These metrics of quality continue to be important today, but increasingly surgeons are under scrutiny for resource utilization, patient experience, and cost effectiveness. Intelligent decisions about resource use require knowledge of utility, disutility, and cost ‐‐ information that is still limited and not easily implemented at the time treatment decisions are made. If we accept the proposition that lung cancer care requires a multidisciplinary team making best use of available resources to minimize unwarranted variation, maximize outcomes, and control costs, then three critical needs can be identified: consensus on goals, robust data, and alignment of incentives across disciplines. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 110:539–542. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Data Formats for Elementary Gas Phase Kinetics, Part 1: Unique Representations of Species at the Molecular Level
Authors: BURGESS DONALD R. , MANION JEFFREY A. , HAYES CARRIGAN J.
Published: August 2014

Standardized electronic formats for data are needed to efficiently and transparently communicate the results of scientific studies. A format for the unique identification of chemical species is a requirement in the field of chemistry, and the IUPAC International Chemical Identifier (InChI) has been widely adopted for this purpose. The InChI identifier has proved to be very useful. The InChI identifier, however, is currently insufficient to uniquely specify some types of molecular entities at a detailed molecular level needed to fully characterize their chemical nature, to differentiate between chemically distinct conformers, to uniquely identify structures used in quantum chemical calculations, and to completely describe elementary chemical reactions. To address this limitation, we propose an augmented form of InChI, denoted as InChI–ER, which contains additional optional layers that allow the unique and unambiguous identification of molecules at a detailed molecular level. The new layers proposed herein are optional extensions of the existing InChI formalism and, like all other InChI layers, would not interfere with InChI identifiers currently in use. The focus of the present work is the better specification of required molecular entities such as rotational conformations, ring conformations, and electronic states. In companion articles, we propose additional reaction layers using an extended InChI format that will enable the unique identification of elementary chemical reactions, including specification of associated transition states, specification of the changes in bonds that occur during reaction, and classification of reaction types.
Elliptic Symbols
Authors: Bär Christian
Published: August 2014

If G is the structure group of a manifold M it is shown how a certain ideal in the character ring of G corresponds to the set of geometric elliptic operators on M. This provides a simple method to construct these operators. For classical structure groups like G = O(n) (Riemannian manifolds), G = SO(n) (oriented Riemannian manifolds), G = U(m) (almost complex manifolds), G = Spin(n) (spin manifolds), or G = Spinc(n) (spinc manifolds) this yields well known classical operators like the Euler—deRham operator, signature operator, Cauchy—Riemann operator, or the Dirac operator. For some less well studied structure groups like Spinh(n) or Sp(q)Sp(1) we can determine the corresponding operators.

As applications, we obtain integrality results for such manifolds by applying the Atiyah—Singer Index Theorem to these operators. Finally, we explain how immersions yield interesting structure groups to which one can apply this method. This yields lower bounds on the codimension of immersions in terms of topological data of the manifolds involved.
Superplastic forming ability of as‐cast AZ91 Mg alloy prepared by twin roll casting
Authors: Janik V. , Bali G. , Grimes R. , Dashwood R.
Published: August 2014

In this study, the twin roll casting process has been utilized to prepare initial as‐cast strip of AZ91 alloy that has been further tested in uniaxial tension at 325, 350 and 375 ºC, and at strain rates from 10–2 to 10–4 s–1. The ability of AZ91 strip to undergo superplastic or superplastic‐like deformation in longitudinal direction, in transverse direction, and in 45 degrees to longitudinal direction was investigated with no further thermal or thermomechanical processing applied prior to the testing. At temperature 350 ºC and medium strain rate the maximum elongation reached almost 200% in direction parallel to the strip casting, however in the transverse and 45 degrees direction, different temperature, and at higher strain rates the maximum elongation was lower. Based on microstructural investigation by means of optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) it could be seen that continuous dynamic recrystallization of initial coarse dendritic as‐cast microstructure during elevated temperature deformation is active and responsible for high elongations. Additional analysis is provided by means of a strain rate sensitivity characterization and its evolution with increased level of strain. Strain rate sensitivity of AZ91alloy increased with increasing level of strain from 0.20 to 0.33.
Microstructure and elevated temperature mechanical properties of Al–8Fe–4RE alloy fabricated by spray forming
Authors: Lei H. , Zhang Y. , Zhao G. , Yan P. , Yan B.
Published: August 2014

Al–8Fe–4Ce alloy is currently manufactured by consolidating the atomized powders. With the aim to reduce the cost, spray forming process was applied in manufacturing with misch metal as raw materials. Spray forming (SF) as well as casting were employed to prepare Al–8Fe–4RE alloy, followed by hot‐press to compact the samples. The mechanical properties of SFed and cast Al–8Fe–4RE alloys are characterized at a temperature of 350 °C. The results show that the Al3Fe phases contained in SF alloy is comparatively refined, forming needle‐shaped phases embedded in the Al matrix, and the SF alloy also showed lower degree of preferred orientation in (111) plane. Although both factors might explain the superior performance of the SF sample, the fracture appearance after tensile test at 350 °C shows that the contribution from crystallographic feature might be predominant. Spray forming is proved to be a very promising technique for manufacture of Al–Fe–Ce alloys of high strength at an elevated temperature.
Redox Regulation of Inflammation: Old Elements, a New Story
Authors: Lei Yunlong , Wang Kui , Deng Longfei , Chen Yi , Nice Edouard C. , Huang Canhua
Published: August 2014

Inflammation is an essential immune response characterized by pain, swelling, redness, heat, and impaired function. A controlled acute inflammatory response is necessary to fight off infection and overcome injury. However, if the inflammatory process persists and enters into the chronic state, it can lead to local and systemic deleterious effects counterproductive to healing and instead constitutes a new pathology. Typically, inflamed tissues are associated with an elevated level of reactive species (reactive oxygen species (ROS)/reactive nitrogen species (RNS)). These ROS/RNS are generated during the respiratory burst of immune cells and are important factors in defense against invading pathogens. Additionally, reactive species are now known to trigger oxidative/nitrosative modifications of biomolecules. While most of these modifications lead to irreparable damage, some are subtle and fully reversible. The reversible modifications can initiate signaling cascades known as “redox signaling.” This redox signaling tightly modulates the inflammatory response. Thus, understanding the complex role of ROS/RNS‐induced redox signaling in inflammation will assist in the design of relevant therapeutic intervention strategies for inflammation‐associated diseases. This review will highlight the impact of oxidative stress and redox signaling on inflammation and inflammation‐associated diseases, with a focus on redox modifications of inflammation‐related proteins.
Natural polyphenols binding to amyloid: A broad class of compounds to treat different human amyloid diseases
Authors: Ngoungoure Viviane L. Ndam , Schluesener Jan , Moundipa Paul F. , Schluesener Hermann
Published: August 2014

Polyphenols are a large group of phytonutrients found in herbal beverages and foods. They have manifold biological activities, including antioxidative, antimicrobial, and anti‐inflammatory properties. Interestingly, some polyphenols bind to amyloid and substantially ameliorate amyloid diseases. Misfolding, aggregation, and accumulation of amyloid fibrils in tissues or organs leads to a group of disorders, called amyloidoses. Prominent diseases are Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's disease, but there are other, less well‐known diseases wherein accumulation of misfolded protein is a prominent feature. Amyloidoses are a major burden to public health. In particular, Alzheimer's disease shows a strong increase in patient numbers. Accelerated development of effective therapies for amyloidoses is a necessity. A viable strategy can be the prevention or reduction of protein misfolding, thus reducing amyloid build‐up by restoring the cellular aggretome. Amyloid‐binding polyphenols affect amyloid formation on various levels, e.g. by inhibiting fibril formation or steering oligomer formation into unstructured, nontoxic pathways. Consequently, preclinical studies demonstrate reduction of amyloid‐formation by polyphenols. Amyloid‐binding polyphenols might be suitable lead structures for development of imaging agents for early detection of disease and monitoring amyloid deposition. Intake of dietary polyphenols might be relevant to the prevention of amyloidoses. Nutraceutical strategies might be a way to reduce amyloid diseases.
The acrosomal protein SP‐10 (Acrv1) is an ideal marker for staging of the cycle of seminiferous epithelium in the mouse
Authors: Osuru Hari Prasad , Monroe Jennifer E , Chebolu Apoorv P , Akamune Joycelyn , Pramoonjago Patcharin , Ranpura Sandeep A , Reddi Prabhakara P
Published: August 2014

The study of spermatogenesis requires accurate identification of the stages of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. A stage refers to the unique association of germ cell types at a particular phase of development, as seen in a cross‐sectioned seminiferous tubule. Stage‐identification, however, is a daunting task. There are 12 stages represented in the mouse seminiferous epithelium. Stages are typically identified on the basis of the morphology of the developing acrosome of spermatids. Although the characteristic features of the acrosome are well‐documented in ultrastructure images, a reagent that can highlight the subtle differences in acrosome shape under the light microscope is lacking. Here we demonstrate that a polyclonal antibody raised against the mouse acrosomal protein SP‐10 is extremely useful for stage identification. Immunohistochemistry showed that the anti‐SP‐10 antibody is highly specific for the acrosome of spermatids, as no other cell type in the epithelium showed immunoreactivity. At lower magnification, the gross shape of the acrosome and the increasing intensity of immunostaining served as a guide for the identification of stages I–XII. At higher magnification, characteristic morphological features–such as whether the part of the acrosome that contacts the nuclear surface is round (stage III) or flat (stage IV) or curved (stage VI)–could be identified unambiguously. Overall, we present evidence that SP‐10 is a useful marker for staging the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. The anti‐SP‐10 antibody works well in different fixatives, on paraffin‐embedded as well as cryosections, and has been shown to be useful for characterizing spermatogenic defects in mutant mice. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 81: 896–907, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A coupled mechanical‐charge/dipole molecular dynamics finite element method, with multi‐scale applications to the design of graphene nano‐devices
Authors: Wilmes André A. R. , Pinho Silvestre T.
Published: August 2014

A new Molecular Dynamics Finite Element Method (MDFEM) with a coupled mechanical‐charge/dipole formulation is proposed. The equilibrium equations of Molecular Dynamics (MD) are embedded exactly within the computationally more favourable Finite Element Method (FEM). This MDFEM can readily implement any force field because the constitutive relations are explicitly uncoupled from the corresponding geometric element topologies. This formal uncoupling allows to differentiate between chemical‐constitutive, geometric and mixed‐mode instabilities. Different force fields, including bond‐order reactive and polarisable fluctuating charge–dipole potentials, are implemented exactly in both explicit and implicit dynamic commercial finite element code. The implicit formulation allows for larger length and time scales and more varied eigenvalue‐based solution strategies.

The proposed multi‐physics and multi‐scale compatible MDFEM is shown to be equivalent to MD, as demonstrated by examples of fracture in carbon nanotubes (CNT), and electric charge distribution in graphene, but at a considerably reduced computational cost. The proposed MDFEM is shown to scale linearly, with concurrent continuum FEM multi‐scale couplings allowing for further computational savings. Moreover, novel conformational analyses of pillared graphene structures (PGS) are produced. The proposed model finds potential applications in the parametric topology and numerical design studies of nano‐structures for desired electro‐mechanical properties (e.g. stiffness, toughness and electric field induced vibrational/electron‐emission properties). Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of different forms of strain energy functions in hyperelasticity‐based crystal plasticity models on texture evolution and mechanical response of face‐centered cubic crystals
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Gyu
Published: August 2014

Micro‐mechanical and macro‐mechanical behavior of face‐centered cubic (FCC) crystals is investigated by using different forms of strain energy functions in hyperelastic material models in crystal plasticity finite element framework. A quadratic strain energy function with anisotropic elastic constants, a polyconvex strain energy function with invariants associated with the cubic symmetry, and a strain energy function from an inter‐atomic potential are considered in hyperelastic material models to describe the elastic deformation of FCC crystals. In our numerical experiments, the trajectories of {111} poles in the pole figure and the accumulated plastic slips of FCC coppers under uniaxial tension and simple shear depend on the choice of strain energy functions when the slip resistance of the slip systems is high. The ability of strain energy functions in this study to represent elastic lattice distortions in crystals varies with the amount of elastic deformation and the shape of deformed lattice. However, numerical results show that the change of macroscopic mechanical behavior of FCC coppers is not significant for the choice of strain energy functions, compared with the change of crystallographic texture evolution. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pitfalls in noninvasive fetal RhD and sex determination due to a vanishing twin
Authors: Masala Maddalena , Saba Luisella , Zoppi Maria Angelica , Puddu Rosalba , Picciau Andrea , Capponi Valentina , Iuculano Ambra , Monni Giovanni , Rosatelli Maria Cristina
Published: August 2014

What's already known about this topic?

Risk of misdiagnosis in NIPT carried out by cfDNA analysis in presence of vanishing twins.

Importance of ultrasound monitoring since early gestational age in case of NIPT.

What does this study add?

Precise monitoring of the cfDNA released from a vanishing twin in a noninvasive fetal RhD and sex determination.

Exhaustive follow‐up of pregnancy since delivery.
Emerging roles of post‐translational modifications in signal transduction and angiogenesis
Authors: Rahimi Nader , Costello Catherine E.
Published: August 2014

The vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2) belongs to the family of receptor tyrosine kinases and is a key player in vasculogenesis and pathological angiogenesis. An emerging picture of PTMs of VEGFR‐2 suggests that they play central roles in generating a highly dynamic and complex signaling system that regulates key angiogenic responses ranging from endothelial cell differentiation, proliferation, migration to permeability. Recent MS analysis of VEGFR‐2 uncovered previously unrecognized PTMs on VEGFR‐2 with a distinct function. The ligand binding extracellular domain of VEGFR‐2 is composed of seven immunoglobulin‐like domains highly decorated with N‐glycosylation, while its cytoplasmic domain is subject to multiple PTMs including Tyr, Ser/Thr phosphorylation, Arg and Lys methylation, acetylation and ubiquitination. Here we review the PTMs on VEGFR‐2, their importance in angiogenic signaling relays and possible novel therapeutic potentials.
Video surgical technique for interruption of patent ductus arteriosus in children and neonates
Authors: Laborde F. , Folliguet T. , Da Cruz E. , Batisse A. , Carbognani D. , Dibie A.
Published: August 2014

Classical surgical interruption of PDA has partially been replaced by trans catheter endovascular closure since 1971. We describe a new technique for PDA closure by video surgery. With the patient under general anesthesia and intubated, two 5 mm holes were made through the left thoracic wall. A video camera and specially devised surgical tools were introduced, such as scissors, dissecting forceps, clip appliers. The ductus was dissected and two titanium clips were applied, completely interrupting the ductus. 282 patients were operated on from April 1991. Mean age was 20 months (range 1 month to 17 years) and mean weight was 13 kg (range 1.2 to 65 kg) Twenty‐one had associated lesions not necessitating immediate surgical treatment. All had successful closure of the patent ductus with the video‐assisted technique. 6 patients had recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (5 transient, 1 permanent). The usual hospital stay was from 48h to 72h. There were no other complications and no deaths. Video surgery is a rapid, safe and successful technique for closure of the patent ductus arteriosus. This technique is feasible in low‐weight and premature infants.
Increased T cell activation in BALF from children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Guo Li , Liu Fang , Lu Mei‐Ping , Zheng Qi , Chen Zhi‐Min
Published: August 2014

Background and objective

The mechanisms of Mycoplasma pneumoniae induced lung inflammation are not clearly understood yet. This study investigated whether activated T cells in the airway contributed to the pulmonary inflammation in patients with severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP).

Methods

BALF were collected in all 45 patients with MPP (MPP, n = 45), including mild (Mild, n = 20) and severe (Severe, n = 25) group. BALF in 20 of all 25 severe cases with MPP at the recovery stage (Rec‐severe, n = 20) were collected again. The control group consisted of 20 patients with airway foreign body aspiration (Con., n = 20). CD3+ T cells, CD69+, HLA‐DR+, CD25+ on CD3+ T cells in BALF were determined by flow cytometry. Levels of IL‐6, IL‐10 in BALF were determined by ELISA, and percentage of neutrophils was counted.

Results

A significant increased percentage of neutrophils and levels of IL‐6 and IL‐10, decreased percentage of CD3+ T cells, increased expressions of CD69+, HLA‐DR+ or CD25+ on CD3+ T cells were observed in children with MPP compared with the control group (P < 0.05 or 0.01). Compared to mild group, the percentage of neutrophils, CD3+ CD25+, IL‐6, and IL‐10 were increased in children with severe MPP (P < 0.01 or 0.05). Compared to acute stage, an increased percentage of CD3+ T cells, decreased percentage of neutrophils and IL‐6 level, and expressions of CD3+ CD69+ or CD3+ CD25+ were observed at the recovery stage in children with severe MPP (P < 0.01 or 0.05).

Conclusions

Increased activation of T cell in BALF may play an important role in the inflammatory response of acute and severe MPP. IL‐6 may predict the severity and prognosis and provide a better assessment for patient care. However, the underlying mechanism awaits further detailed investigations. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:814–819. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in a subpopulation of murine prostate luminal epithelial cells induces high grade prostate intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Valkenburg Kenneth C. , Yu Xiuping , De Marzo Angelo M. , Spiering Tyler J. , Matusik Robert J. , Williams Bart O.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND

Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is important for prostate development and cancer in humans. Activation of this pathway in differentiated luminal cells of mice induces high‐grade prostate intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN). Though the cell of origin of prostate cancer has yet to be conclusively identified, a castration‐resistant Nkx3.1‐expressing cell (CARN) may act as a cell of origin for prostate cancer.

METHODS

To activate Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in CARNs, we crossed mice carrying tamoxifen‐inducible Nkx3.1‐driven Cre to mice containing loxP sites in order to either conditionally knock out adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) or constitutively activate β‐catenin directly. We then castrated and hormonally regenerated these mice to target the CARN population.

RESULTS

Loss of Apc in hormonally normal mice induced HGPIN; however, after one or more rounds of castration and hormonal regeneration, Apc‐null CARNs disappeared. Alternatively, when β‐catenin was constitutively activated under the same conditions, HGPIN was apparent.

CONCLUSION

Activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling via Apc deletion is sufficient to produce HGPIN in hormonally normal mice. Loss of Apc may destabilize the CARN population under regeneration conditions. When β‐catenin is constitutively activated, HGPIN occurs in hormonally regenerated mice. A second genetic hit is likely required to cause progression to carcinoma and metastasis. Prostate 74:1506–1520, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A retrospective, Canadian multi‐center study examining the impact of prior response to abiraterone acetate on efficacy of docetaxel in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Azad Arun A. , Leibowitz‐Amit Raya , Eigl Bernhard J. , Lester Renee , Wells J. Connor , Murray R. Nevin , Kollmannsberger Christian , Heng Daniel Y.C. , Joshua Anthony M. , Chi Kim N.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND

Questions about optimal sequencing of systemic therapy in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and whether cross‐resistance occurs between different drugs remain largely unanswered. Previous studies have produced conflicting data on the activity of docetaxel in patients who did not attain a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) response to abiraterone acetate (abiraterone). We investigated whether the biochemical response to abiraterone is associated with efficacy of subsequent docetaxel therapy.

METHODS

mCRPC patients treated with docetaxel after abiraterone were retrospectively identified at three Canadian institutions. Patients who had also received docetaxel prior to abiraterone were termed “docetaxel‐experienced,” while those not treated with docetaxel prior to abiraterone were termed “docetaxel‐naïve.” Treatment outcomes on docetaxel were stratified by prior response to abiraterone and compared using χ2‐square test for confirmed PSA response rate (≥ 50% decline from baseline maintained for ≥ 3 weeks) and the log‐rank method for progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Eighty‐six patients were treated with abiraterone, of whom 49 were docetaxel‐experienced and 37 were docetaxel‐naïve. Prior PSA response to abiraterone was no decline, <50% decline and ≥ 50% decline in 37%, 26%, and 37% of patients respectively. The overall PSA response rate to docetaxel was 34.9%, median PFS was 4.0 months and median OS was 11.66 months. Notably, no differences were seen in confirmed PSA response rates (38% vs. 36% vs. 31%, P = 0.86), median PFS (4.04 months vs. 3.94 months vs. 4.24 months, P = 0.43) and median OS (11.86 months vs. 15.38 months vs. 11.00 months, P = 0.56) on docetaxel for patients with no PSA decline, <50% decline and ≥ 50% decline on abiraterone respectively. Importantly, PSA response rates to docetaxel were comparable in the docetaxel‐experienced and docetaxel‐naïve cohorts and were not linked to prior response to abiraterone in either group.

CONCLUSION

Activity of docetaxel was not associated with the biochemical response to prior abiraterone therapy. These data suggest that prior response to abiraterone should not influence decisions on subsequent use of docetaxel in mCRPC. Prostate 74:1544–1550, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selective area deposition of diamond films on AlGaN/GaN heterostructures
Authors: Izak Tibor , Babchenko Oleg , Jirásek Vít , Vanko Gabriel , Vallo Martin , Vojs Marián , Kromka Alexander
Published: August 2014

Diamond‐on‐GaN heterostructure is a promising hybrid material system with a variety of applications such as heat spreaders, high‐temperature, and high‐power devices. From a practical point of view, polycrystalline diamond is shown to be an attractive solution to the limited use of the expensive monocrystalline diamond substrates. Here we present selective area diamond deposition on AlGaN/GaN layers focusing on the elimination of surface and metal contact damage (Ni, NiO, Ir, and IrO2) and suppressing the spontaneous nucleation of diamond. Metal contacts are important for further applications such as diamond‐coated GaN based electronic devices. The growth of diamond films was performed by microwave chemical vapor deposition in different gas mixtures with the addition of CO2 or N2 to CH4/H2. Adding CO2 resulted in polycrystalline (PCD), while adding N2 led to the formation of nanocrystalline diamond film (NCD). The diamond deposition was carried out using selective area nucleation in a three‐layer sandwich structure (polymer/seeding layer/polymer), which avoided damage to the electrode and GaN surfaces from ultrasonic seeding by diamond particles. No protective layer was used on the GaN surface before diamond deposition, i.e., diamond films were grown directly on the AlGaN/GaN heterostructures. In the case of NCD deposition, no surface damaging of GaN was observed. For both NCD and PCD films, increasing methane from 1% to 2% in H2 minimized the surface damage of GaN films.
Developing stratified epithelia: lessons from the epidermis and thymus
Authors: Roberts Natalie , Horsley Valerie
Published: August 2014

Stratified squamous epithelial cells are found in a number of organs, including the skin epidermis and the thymus. The progenitor cells of the developing epidermis form a multi‐layered epithelium and appendages, like the hair follicle, to generate an essential barrier to protect against water loss and invasion of foreign pathogens. In contrast, the thymic epithelium forms a three‐dimensional mesh of keratinocytes that are essential for positive and negative selection of self‐restricted T cells. While these distinct stratified epithelial tissues derive from distinct embryonic germ layers, both tissues instruct immunity, and the epithelial differentiation programs and molecular mechanisms that control their development are remarkably similar. In this review, we aim to highlight some of the similarities between the thymus and the skin epidermis and its appendages during developmental specification. WIREs Dev Biol 2014, 3:389–402. doi: 10.1002/wdev.146

This article is categorized under:

Signaling Pathways > Cell Fate Signaling

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Tissue Stem Cells and Niches
Cotranscriptional events in eukaryotic ribosome synthesis
Authors: Turowski Tomasz W. , Tollervey David
Published: August 2014

Eukaryotic ribosomes are synthesized in a complex, multistep pathway. This begins with transcription of the rDNA genes by a specialized RNA polymerase, accompanied by the cotranscriptional binding of large numbers of ribosome synthesis factors, small nucleolar RNAs and ribosomal proteins. Cleavage of the nascent transcript releases the early pre‐40S and pre‐60S particles, which acquire export competence in the nucleoplasm prior to translocation through the nuclear pore complexes and final maturation to functional ribosomal subunits in the cytoplasm. This review will focus on the many and complex interactions occurring during pre‐rRNA synthesis, particularly in budding yeast in which the pathway is best understood. WIREs RNA 2015, 6:129–139. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1263

This article is categorized under:

Translation > Ribosome Biogenesis

RNA Processing > rRNA Processing
Dipyridylamide Donor Disposition and Isophthalate Substituent Steric Effect on the Dimensionality and Topology of Divalent Copper Coordination Polymers
Authors: O'Donovan Megan E. , Porta Angela R. , Torres Salgado Maria D. , LaDuca Robert L.
Published: August 2014

Divalent copper coordination polymers containing an isophthalate ligand and a dipyridylamide ligand show different dimensionalities and topologies depending on pyridyl nitrogen donor disposition and the steric bulk of the substituent on the dicarboxylate aromatic ring. According to single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, [Cu(ip)(3‐pna)]n (1, ip = isophthalate, 3‐pna = 3‐pyridylnicotinamide) shows a (4, 4) layered grid structure based on {Cu2(OCO)2} dimeric units. {[Cu(ip)(3‐pina)]·H2O}n (2, 3‐pina = 3‐pyridylisonicotinamide) exhibits similar dimeric units, but in contrast to 1 these are connected into a non‐interpenetrated 3D 658 cds network. Both [Cu(mip)(3‐pina)]n (3, mip = 5‐methylisophthalate) and [Cu(meoip)(3‐pina)]n (4, mip = 5‐methoxyisophthalate) display dimer‐based 41263 pcu networks in contrast to 2. Use of 5‐hydroxyisophthalate (H2hip) as a precursor afforded a mixture of {[Cu2(hip)2(3‐pina)4]·9.5H2O}n (5) and [Cu(hip)(3‐pina)]n (6). Compound 5 shows a 2D interdigitated structure with [Cu(hip)]n coordination polymer layers featuring {Cu2(OCO)2} dimeric units and pendant 3‐pina ligands, while 6 also showed a dimer‐based 41263 pcu network. Use of the very sterically bulky 5‐tert‐butylisophthalate (tbip) ligand afforded the 1D chain coordination polymer {[Cu(tbip)(3‐pina)2(H2O)]·H2O}n (7), which contains isolated copper ions in contrast to 1–6, and has a curious “butterfly“ resemblance. Very weak antiferromagnetic coupling is seen within the {Cu2(OCO)2} dimeric units in 1. Thermal decomposition behavior is also discussed.
Reactions of Group 4 Metallocenes with N,N′‐Diphenylformamidine – Hydrogen Generation versus Oxidative Addition
Authors: Haehnel Martin , Schubert Kathleen , Becker Lisanne , Arndt Perdita , Spannenberg Anke , Rosenthal Uwe
Published: August 2014

Reactions of Cp2M(L)(η2‐Me3SiC2SiMe3) (Cp = η5‐cyclopentadienyl) (1‐Ti: M = Ti, no L; 1‐Zr: M = Zr, L = pyridine) with PhN=C(H)–N(H)Ph are discussed, giving for titanium the formation of hydrogen together with the four‐membered TiIII metallacycle Cp2Ti(κ2‐N,N′‐PhN–C(H)–NPh) (2). For zirconium in the same reaction at elevated temperature the ZrIV complex Cp2Zr(H)(κ2‐N,N′‐PhN–C(H)–NPh) (3) and at ambient temperature, as an intermediate for this, the σ‐alkenyl complex Cp2Zr[C(SiMe3)C=CH(SiMe3)](κ2‐N,N′‐PhN–C(H)–NPh)] (4) were formed. Alternatively, metallation of PhN=C(H)–N(H)Ph and its subsequent reaction with [Cp2TiCl]2 gave 2 and with Schwartz's reagent Cp2Zr(H)(Cl) complex 3. Complex 2 reacts with additional Cp2Ti(η2‐Me3SiC2SiMe3) (1‐Ti) but there are no hints for the expected reduction of the PhN=C(H)–N(H)Ph unit to PhN=C=NPh by further C–H bond activation, the formation of hydrogen and products of the assumed unstable intermediate [Cp2Ti(κ2‐N,N′‐Ph–N=C=N–Ph)]. The molecular structure of complex 2 was determined by X‐ray analysis.
Choice overload: A conceptual review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chernev Alexander , Böckenholt Ulf , Goodman Joseph
Published: August 2014

Despite the voluminous evidence in support of the paradoxical finding that providing individuals with more options can be detrimental to choice, the question of whether and when large assortments impede choice remains open. Even though extant research has identified a variety of antecedents and consequences of choice overload, the findings of the individual studies fail to come together into a cohesive understanding of when large assortments can benefit choice and when they can be detrimental to choice. In a meta‐analysis of 99 observations (N = 7202) reported by prior research, we identify four key factors—choice set complexity, decision task difficulty, preference uncertainty, and decision goal—that moderate the impact of assortment size on choice overload. We further show that each of these four factors has a reliable and significant impact on choice overload, whereby higher levels of decision task difficulty, greater choice set complexity, higher preference uncertainty, and a more prominent, effort‐minimizing goal facilitate choice overload. We also find that four of the measures of choice overload used in prior research—satisfaction/confidence, regret, choice deferral, and switching likelihood—are equally powerful measures of choice overload and can be used interchangeably. Finally, we document that when moderating variables are taken into account the overall effect of assortment size on choice overload is significant—a finding counter to the data reported by prior meta‐analytic research.
Tivantinib (ARQ 197) efficacy is independent of MET inhibition in non‐small‐cell lung cancer cell lines
Authors: Calles Antonio , Kwiatkowski Nicholas , Cammarata Bernard K. , Ercan Dalia , Gray Nathanael S. , Jänne Pasi A.
Published: August 2014

MET targeted therapies are under clinical evaluation for non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) against MET have varying degrees of specificity. Tivantinib (ARQ 197) is reported to be a non‐ATP competitive selective MET inhibitor. We aimed to compare the activity of tivantinib to established MET TKIs in a panel of NSCLC cell lines characterized by their MET dependency and by different relevant genotypes. A549, H3122, PC9 and HCC827, their respective resistant clones PC9 GR4 and HCC827 GR6 and the MET amplified cell lines H1993 and EBC‐1 were treated in vitro with tivantinib, crizotinib or PHA‐665752. Crizotinib and PHA‐665752 showed growth inhibition restricted to MET dependent cell lines. The pattern of activity was related to MET inhibition and downstream signaling inhibition of AKT and ERK1/2, resulting in G0/G1 cycle arrest and apoptosis. In contrast, tivantinib possessed more potent anti‐proliferative activity that was not restricted to only MET dependent cell lines. Tivantinib did not inhibit cellular MET activity or phosphorylation of downstream signaling proteins AKT or ERK1/2 in either MET dependent or independent cell lines. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated that tivantinib induced a G2/M arrest and induced apoptosis. Tivantinib but not crizotinib effected microtubule dynamics, disrupting mitotic spindles by a mechanism consistent with it functioning as a microtubule depolymerizer. Tivantinib activity is independent of MET signaling in NSCLC and suggests alternative mechanisms of action that should be considered when interpreting the results from on‐going clinical studies.
A case of a rapidly expanding odontogenic myxoma of the mandible
Authors: Higo Morihiro , Kasamatsu Atsushi , Ogawara Katsunori , Shiiba Masashi , Uzawa Katsuhiro , Tanzawa Hideki
Published: August 2014

Odontogenic myxoma (OM) is a rare benign neoplasm with locally aggressive behavior. We present an unusual case of OM as a rapidly expanding lesion in the mandible of a 62‐year‐old woman who underwent segmental mandibulectomy and primary mandibular reconstruction using a titanium plate. Histologically, we observed stellate and spindle‐shaped cells lying loosely in abundant mucoid stroma. Immunohistochemical staining was positive for smooth muscle actin and vimentin and negative for desmin and p53. The patient was followed up for 24 months without a recurrence. Long‐term follow‐up is required due to the high risk of recurrence.
Being Unfaithful to One's Own Principles: The Israeli Supreme Court and House Demolitions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories
Authors: Harpaz Guy
Published: August 2014

The practice of house demolition in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (‘the Territories’) pursued by Israel for the purpose of deterring potential terrorist activities (as opposed to planning or operational purposes) has attracted voluminous literature, most of which is critical. Scholarship postulates that the practice is immoral and ineffective, that it is contrary to Jewish morals and international law, and that it may amount to an international crime. Some of the critical writings focus on the practice of the Israel Defence Forces; others concentrate on the failure of the Israeli Parliament to curb the practice, while others examine the practice in its wider context, namely the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. This article focuses on the regulation of the practice by the Israeli Supreme Court (‘the Court’). This theme has already been examined by numerous scholars including, in particular, Kretzmer and Simon, who found that the Court's jurisprudence is contrary to public international law and its reasoning is unpersuasive. This article aims to add to the existing scholarly corpus by using a different prism. It contrasts the Court's house demolition jurisprudence with its own jurisprudence in comparable areas in which it is called upon to resolve tensions between security and human rights in the Territories, postulating that in handling house demolition measures the Court is unfaithful to its own jurisprudence. Building upon these findings, the article distils the manifestations of that unfaithfulness and its negative repercussions in normative, coherence and legitimacy terms. It concludes with the call that when the issue of house demolition is brought back before the Court, it should apply the same approach, spirit, techniques and benchmarks that it has employed in analogous areas of law.
When Gravity Fails: Israeli Settlements and Admissibility at the ICC
Authors: Kontorovich Eugene
Published: August 2014

In the wake of the UN General Assembly's recent recognition of Palestinian statehood, the Palestinian government has made clear its intention to challenge in the International Criminal Court (ICC or the Court) the legality of Israeli settlements. This article explores jurisdictional hurdles for such a case. To focus on the jurisdictional issues, the article assumes for the sake of argument the validity of the merits of the legal claims against the settlements.

The ICC only takes situations of particular ‘gravity’. Yet settlements are not a ‘grave breach’ under the Rome Statute. No modern international criminal tribunal has ever prosecuted crimes that do not involve systematic violence and physical coercion. The ICC's gravity measure involves the number of persons killed; for settlements it would be zero. Indeed, the ICC Prosecutor triages situations by the numbers of victims; settlements do not appear to have direct individual victims. Finally, the ICC would at most have jurisdiction over settlement activity only from the date of Palestine's acceptance of jurisdiction. Settlement activity in this time frame would not immediately cross the ICC's gravity threshold.
Borders That Divide: Education and Religion in Ghana and Togo Since Colonial Times
Authors: Cogneau Denis , Moradi Alexander
Published: August 2014

The partition of German Togoland after World War I provides a natural experiment to test the impact of British and French colonization. Using data of recruits to the Ghanaian colonial army 1908–1955, we find that literacy and religious affiliation diverge at the border between the parts of Togoland under British and French control as early as in the 1920s. We partly attribute this to policies towards missionary schools. The divergence is only visible in the South where educational and evangelization efforts were strong. Contemporary survey data show that border effects that began in colonial times still persist today.
Russian Inequality on the Eve of Revolution
Authors: Lindert Peter H. , Nafziger Steven
Published: August 2014

Careful handling of an eclectic data set reveals how unequal were the incomes of different classes of Russians on the eve of Revolution. We estimate incomes by economic and social class in each of the fifty provinces of European Russia. On the eve of military defeat and the 1905 Revolution, Russian income inequality was middling by the standards of that era, and less severe than is inequality today in China, the United States, and Russia itself. We note how the interplay of some distinctive fiscal and relative-price features of Imperial Russia might have shaped the now-revealed level of inequality.
Intra-operative monitoring of the spinal accessory nerve: a systematic review
Authors: McGarvey A C , Hoffman G R , Osmotherly P G , Chiarelli P E
Published: August 2014

Objective:

To investigate evidence that intra-operative nerve monitoring of the spinal accessory nerve affects the prevalence of post-operative shoulder morbidity and predicts functional outcome.

Methods:

A search of the Medline, Scopus and Cochrane databases from 1995 to October 2012 was undertaken, using the search terms ‘monitoring, intra-operative’ and ‘accessory nerve’. Articles were included if they pertained to intra-operative accessory nerve monitoring undertaken during neck dissection surgery and included a functional shoulder outcome measure. Further relevant articles were obtained by screening the reference lists of retrieved articles.

Results:

Only three articles met the inclusion criteria of the review. Two of these included studies suggesting that intra-operative nerve monitoring shows greater specificity than sensitivity in predicting post-operative shoulder dysfunction. Only one study, with a small sample size, assessed intra-operative nerve monitoring in neck dissection patients.

Conclusion:

It is unclear whether intra-operative nerve monitoring is a useful tool for reducing the prevalence of accessory nerve injury and predicting post-operative functional shoulder outcome in patients undergoing neck dissection. Larger, randomised studies are required to determine whether such monitoring is a valuable surgical adjunct.