bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene‐to‐ecosystem impacts of a catastrophic pesticide spill: testing a multilevel bioassessment approach in a river ecosystem
Authors: Thompson Murray S. A. , Bankier Claire , Bell Thomas , Dumbrell Alex J. , Gray Clare , Ledger Mark E. , Lehmann Katja , McKew Boyd A. , Sayer Carl D. , Shelley Felicity , Trimmer Mark , Warren Scott L. , Woodward Guy
Published: September 2015

Pesticides can have strong deleterious impacts in fresh waters, but understanding how these effects cascade through natural ecosystems, from microbes to apex predators, is limited because research that spans multiple levels of biological organisation is rare.

We report how an accidental insecticide spill altered the structure and functioning of a river across levels ranging from genes to ecosystems. We quantified the impacts on assemblages of microbes, diatoms, macroinvertebrates and fish and measured leaf‐litter decomposition rates and microbial functional potential at upstream control and downstream impacted sites 2 months after the spill.

Both direct and indirect impacts were evident across multiple levels of organisation and taxa, from the base of the food web to higher trophic levels. At the molecular level, differences in functional gene abundance within the impacted sites reflected a combination of direct and indirect effects of the pesticide, via elevated abundances of microbial populations capable of using chlorpyrifos as a resource (i.e. direct effect) and oxidising ammonia released by decaying macroinvertebrate carcasses (i.e. indirect effect).

At the base of the food chains, diatom taxa found only in the impacted sites were an order‐of‐magnitude larger in cell size than the largest comparable taxa in control communities, following the near extirpation of their consumers. Population biomass of the key detritivore Gammarus pulex was markedly lower, as was the rate of litter decomposition in the impacted sites. This was partially compensated for, however, by elevated microbial breakdown, suggesting another indirect food‐web effect of the toxic spill.

Although many species exhibited population crashes or local extirpation, total macroinvertebrate biomass and abundance were largely unaffected due to a compensatory elevation in small tolerant taxa such as oligochaetes, and/or taxa which were in their adult aerial life stage at the time of the spill (e.g. chironomids) and thus avoided contact with the polluted waters and were able to repopulate the river quickly. Mass–abundance scaling of trophic links between consumers and resources revealed extensive restructuring within the food web.

This case study shows that pesticides can affect food‐web structure and ecosystem functioning, both directly and indirectly across levels of biological organisation. It also demonstrates how an integrated assessment approach, as adopted here, can elucidate links between microbiota, macroinvertebrates and fish, for instance, thus improving our understanding of the range of biological consequences of chemical contamination in natural ecosystems.
Contagion of Self-Interested Behavior: Evidence from Group Dictator Game Experiments
Authors: Ito Takehiro , Suzuki Akihiro , Takemoto Toru , Ogawa Kazuhito , Takahashi Hiromasa
Published: September 2015

We examine how group decision-making affects other-regarding behavior in experimental dictator games. In particular, we assess whether the effects of iterated games differ for group and individual decision-making and whether the difference in decision-making style (individual or group) changes the perception of social identity. We make two findings on group decision-making. First, group decisions become more selfish when repeating the game after changing group members. Second, a dictator group donates more to a recipient group at the same university than to a recipient group at a different university. These findings are not true for individual decision-making.
Synthesis and properties of feruloyl corn bran arabinoxylan esters
Authors: Li Y. , Yang C.
Published: September 2015

Objective

To enhance the antioxidant activity and UV absorption coefficient of corn bran arabinoxylan (CAX), ferulic acid (FA) with this physiological activity is used to modify CAX.

Methods

Corn bran arabinoxylan was extracted from corn bran according to alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP) method. FA was covalently linked to CAX by esterification in a two‐step feasible synthesis to generate ferulic acid arabinoxylan esters (FA‐CAX). The structure and molecular weight of FA‐CAX were characterized by NMR and HPSEC, the degrees of substitution (DS) was determined by HPLC, and the ultraviolet (UV) coefficient of FA‐CAX was tested by UV spectroscopy. The antioxidant activity of FA‐CAX was investigated on the basis of 2,2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical assay, and protecting ability of FA‐CAX to UV‐induced oxidative damage was tested using linolenic acid dispersion as stratum corneum lipid model.

Results

The results demonstrated that FA was attached to CAX successfully, and the inherent structure of CAX would not be broken during the process of the synthesis. FA‐CAX‐1 and FA‐CAX‐2 contained different amount of FA, with DS at 0.33 and 1.25, respectively, can absorb UV both at UVA and UVB. Moreover, FA‐CAX‐2 exhibited better antioxidant activity than FA‐CAX‐1 based on the two test methods.

Conclusion

Ferulic acid modified CAX had significant antioxidant ability and UV absorption coefficient. And higher amount of FA leads to higher antioxidant activity and stronger UV absorption and stability. With increasing amount of FA attached to CAX, the antioxidant activities were better and the UV absorption was stronger and more durable.
Synthesis and Electrical Properties of (Pb,Bi)TiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Gautam Chandkiram , Madheshiya Abhishek , Sharma Prabhuta , Dwivedi Rakesh
Published: September 2015

Lead bismuth titanate ceramics were prepared using solid‐state method. The structural and dielectric behaviors were studied using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and LCR meter. X‐ray diffraction studies showed that crystal structure changed with changing compositions and sintering temperatures. The value of dielectric constant was found to be more for lead‐free samples with the addition of 1 mol% Fe2O3 rather than CrO3‐doped samples. Activation energy, Ea, was determined from the slope of log τ versus 1000/T plots for ceramic samples 3P7BT1C800 and 3P7BT1C900. Impedance spectroscopy revealed that resistance decreases with increasing temperature.
The RUNX complex: reaching beyond haematopoiesis into immunity
Authors: Voon Dominic Chih‐Cheng , Hor Yit Teng , Ito Yoshiaki
Published: September 2015

Among their diverse roles as transcriptional regulators during development and cell fate specification, the RUNX transcription factors are best known for the parts they play in haematopoiesis. RUNX proteins are expressed throughout all haematopoietic lineages, being necessary for the emergence of the first haematopoietic stem cells to their terminal differentiation. Although much progress has been made since their discoveries almost two decades ago, current appreciation of RUNX in haematopoiesis is largely grounded in their lineage‐specifying roles. In contrast, the importance of RUNX to immunity has been mostly obscured for historic, technical and conceptual reasons. However, this paradigm is likely to shift over time, as a primary purpose of haematopoiesis is to resource the immune system. Furthermore, recent evidence suggests a role for RUNX in the innate immunity of non‐haematopoietic cells. This review takes a haematopoiesis‐centric approach to collate what is known of RUNX's contribution to the overall mammalian immune system and discuss their growing prominence in areas such as autoimmunity, inflammatory diseases and mucosal immunity.
Adalimumab treatment leads to reduction of tissue tumor necrosis factor‐alpha correlated with venous leg ulcer improvement: a pilot study
Authors: Fox Joshua D , Baquerizo‐Nole Katherine L , Keegan Brian R , Macquhae Flor , Escandon Julia , Espinosa Aliette , Perez Carmen , Romanelli Paolo , Kirsner Robert S
Published: September 2015

Venous leg ulcers (VLUs) have higher tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) levels compared with normal skin. Refractory VLUs of long duration have higher TNF‐α levels compared with VLUs of shorter duration. As up to 75% of VLUs fail to heal with standard care, we sought to evaluate the role of anti‐TNF‐α therapy for patients with refractory VLUs. Evaluable data were obtained in four of five subjects with recalcitrant VLUs treated with 80 mg of subcutaneous adalimumab at week 0 and with 40 mg at week 2 along with compression therapy and were followed‐up for 6 weeks. Wound biopsies taken at weeks 0 and 4 were stained with anti‐TNF‐α antibodies. Average 4‐week percent wound size reduction was 20.5% ± 6.4%. Two patients had wound size reduction more than 25%, and their percent wound size reduction correlated to percent TNF‐α staining score reductions (P = 0.02, R2 = 0.999). VLU TNF‐α level decrease 4 weeks post‐adalimumab treatment correlated with wound healing.
The role of adult tissue‐derived stem cells in chronic leg ulcers: a systematic review focused on tissue regeneration medicine
Authors: Amato Bruno , Compagna Rita , Amato Maurizio , Butrico Lucia , Fugetto Francesco , Chibireva Mariia D , Barbetta Andrea , Cannistrà Marco , de Franciscis Stefano , Serra Raffaele
Published: September 2015

Wound healing is an articulated process that can be impaired in different steps in chronic wounds. Chronic leg ulcers are a special type of non‐healing wounds that represent an important cause of morbidity and public cost in western countries. Because of their common recurrence after conventional managements and increasing prevalence due to an ageing population, newer approaches are needed. Over the last decade, the research has been focused on innovative treatment strategies, including stem‐cell‐based therapies. After the initial interest in embryonic pluripotent cells, several different types of adult stem cells have been studied because of ethical issues. Specific types of adult stem cells have shown a high potentiality in tissue healing, in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Aim of this review is to clearly report the newest insights on tissue regeneration medicine, with particular regard for chronic leg ulcers.
Derivative Pricing with Liquidity Risk: Theory and Evidence from the Credit Default Swap Market
Authors: BONGAERTS DION , DE JONG FRANK , DRIESSEN JOOST
Published: September 2015

We derive an equilibrium asset pricing model incorporating liquidity risk, derivatives, and short‐selling due to hedging of nontraded risk. We show that illiquid assets can have lower expected returns if the short‐sellers have more wealth, lower risk aversion, or shorter horizon. The pricing of liquidity risk is different for derivatives than for positive‐net‐supply assets, and depends on investors' net nontraded risk exposure. We estimate this model for the credit default swap market. We find strong evidence for an expected liquidity premium earned by the credit protection seller. The effect of liquidity risk is significant but economically small.
Efficient Near‐Infrared Emission of Ce3+–Nd3+ CoDoped (Sr0.6Ca0.4)3(Al0.6Si0.4)O4.4F0.6 Phosphors for c‐Si Solar Cell
Authors: Chen Jiajun , Liu Jie , Yin Huimin , Jiang Shuangling , Yao Hui , Yu Xibin
Published: September 2015

Ce3+, Nd3+ codoped (Sr0.6Ca0.4)3(Al0.6Si0.4)O4.4F0.6 phosphors were synthesized through the high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method. Luminescence spectra, absorption spectra, and decay lifetimes of these samples have been measured to prove the energy‐transfer process from Ce3+ to Nd3+. Under UV and blue light excitation, (Sr0.6Ca0.4)3(Al0.6Si0.4)O4.4F0.6:Ce3+,Nd3+ phosphors exhibit near‐infrared (NIR) emission, mainly peaking at 1093 nm and secondarily at 916 nm. The NIR emission matches well with the band gap of c‐Si. Results of this work suggest that the (Sr0.6Ca0.4)3(Al0.6Si0.4)O4.4F0.6:Ce3+, Nd3+ phosphors have potential application as down‐shifting luminescent convertor for enhancing the photoelectric conversion efficiency of c‐Si solar cell.
Onset Criterion for Flash Sintering
Authors: Dong Yanhao , Chen I.‐Wei
Published: September 2015

When the sample temperature is warm enough so that the Joule heating takes over the environment's radiation heating as the dominant heating means, thermal runaway follows and flash sintering is triggered. This condition accurately predicts the reported onset temperature Ton of all the constant‐field (E) experiments on flash sintering, performed under a constant heating rate. The predicted linear ln(E2/Ton4) versus Ton−1 relation determines the activation energy and the relative ranking of the electrical conductivity of the tested materials.
Nonlinear Property of (Nb2O5, SrCO3, Ge, GeO2)‐Codoped TiO2‐Based Varistor Ceramics
Authors: Kang Kunyong , Yan Jikang , Yi Jianhong , Li Zhidong , Ge Qiuchen , Yan Fangcun , Yang Jian , Zhao Chenxu , Gan Guoyou
Published: September 2015

This study investigated the influence of codoping with Ge and GeO2 on the nonlinear coefficient α and the breakdown voltage EB of TiO2–Nb2O5–SrCO3 varistor ceramics. Ge–GeO2 codoping notably changed the microstructure of the TiO2–Nb2O5–SrCO3 ceramics, increased α, and decreased EB. When the doping contents of Nb2O5 and SrCO3 were 0.1 and 0.2 mol%, respectively, the optimum doping content of 0.25 mol% Ge and 0.75 mol% GeO2 exhibited high α (11.6), low EB (13.8 V/mm), and high grain‐boundary barrier ΦB (0.96 eV). These results are superior to previous findings. In addition, Ge and GeO2, which function as sintering aids, reduced the sintering temperature caused by the low melting point. The optimal sintering temperature was 1260°C for the TiO2–Nb2O5–SrCO3 ceramics doped with Ge and GeO2.
Shaped by uneven Pleistocene climate: mitochondrial phylogeographic pattern and population history of white wagtail Motacilla alba (Aves: Passeriformes)
Authors: Li Xinlei , Dong Feng , Lei Fumin , Alström Per , Zhang Ruiying , Ödeen Anders , Fjeldså Jon , Ericson Per G. P. , Zou Fasheng , Yang Xiaojun
Published: September 2015

We studied the phylogeography and population history of the white wagtail Motacilla alba, which has a vast breeding range, covering areas with different Pleistocene climatic histories. The mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit II gene (ND2) and Control Region (CR) were analyzed for 273 individuals from 45 localities. Our data comprised all nine subspecies of white wagtail. Four primary clades were inferred (M, N, SW and SE), with indications of M. grandis being nested within M. alba. The oldest split was between two haplotypes from the endemic Moroccan M. a. subpersonata (clade M) and the others, at 0.63–0.96 Mya; other divergences were at 0.31–0.38 Mya. The entire differentiation falls within the part of the Pleistocene characterized by Milankovitch cycles of large amplitudes and durations. Clade N was distributed across the northern Palearctic; clade SW in southwestern Asia plus the British Isles and was predicted by Ecological niche models (ENMs) to occur also in central and south Europe; and clade SE was distributed in central and east Asia. The deep divergence within M. a. subpersonata may reflect retention of ancestral haplotypes. Regional differences in historical climates have had different impacts on different populations: clade N expanded after the last glacial maximum (LGM), whereas milder Pleistocene climate of east Asia allowed clade SE a longer expansion time (since MIS 5); clade SW expanded over a similarly long time as clade SE, which is untypical for European species. ENMs supported these conclusions in that the northern part of the Eurasian continent was unsuitable during the LGM, whereas southern parts remained suitable. The recent divergences and poor structure in the mitochondrial tree contrasts strongly with the pronounced, well defined phenotypical differentiation, indicating extremely fast plumage divergence.
Prognostic factors for the loss of molars – an 18‐years retrospective cohort study
Authors: Graetz Christian , Schützhold Svenja , Plaumann Anna , Kahl Maren , Springer Claudia , Sälzer Sonja , Holtfreter Birte , Kocher Thomas , Dörfer Christof E. , Schwendicke Falk
Published: September 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify long‐term prognostic factors for the loss of molars with different degrees of furcation involvement (FI) during supportive periodontal therapy (SPT).

Methods

Three hundred and seventy‐nine compliant subjects with 2373 molars at baseline were retrospectively assessed. After nonsurgical (n = 76) or surgical (n = 303) non‐regenerative active periodontal therapy (APT: T0–T1), patients remained under SPT (T1–T2) for 18.3 ± 5.5 (9–30.8) years. Association between tooth‐ and subject‐related factors with tooth loss was assessed using multilevel Cox regression‐analysis.

Results

During APT 159 and during SPT 438 molars were extracted in 256 subjects, respectively, yielding an overall survival of 74.8% (T2). Survival probabilities after 15‐years of SPT were 92.4% for molars with FI‐0 compared to FI‐1 = 85.6%, FI‐2 = 74.9% and FI‐3 = 62.3%. The risk of molar loss was significantly increased for teeth with FI‐3 (hazard ratio: 2.39 [95% confidence interval: 1.54–3.70]), bone loss >50% (2.16 [1.36–3.42]), mobile teeth (2.07 [1.51–2.84]), maxillary molars (1.44 [1.12–1.85]) and endodontically treated teeth (1.89 [1.58–2.26]). For each mm of mean residual pocket probing depth, the hazard of tooth loss increased 1.89‐fold (1.58–2.26). On a subject level, for each year of age, HR was 1.03 (1.01–1.05).

Conclusions

Furcation involvement, bone loss, tooth mobility, mean pocket depth and age strongly predicted tooth loss during SPT. Long‐term retention of periodontally compromised molars was possible via conservative non‐regenerative active and supportive therapy.
Mentoring and supervising clinical pharmacist students at patients' bedside: which benefits?
Authors: Rouzaud‐Laborde Charlotte , Damery Léa , Cestac Philippe , Sallerin Brigitte , Calvet Pauline
Published: September 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

 Hospital clinical pharmacists are involved in teaching students during professional internship. Organization between the unit care and the pharmacy place is complicated. This study evaluated the effectiveness of two pharmaceutical teams: an experienced pharmacist in the pharmacy place, reachable by phone (team 1) or an experienced pharmacist in the ward, near patients and students (team 2).

Methods

Pharmaceutical interventions were collected during two successive time periods, each of 6 months in a 15‐bed unit (neurology). During the first time period, prescriptions were analyzed by the student (resident) in the ward and experienced pharmacist in the pharmacy place. During the second time period, prescriptions were analyzed by both experienced pharmacist and the resident in the ward. We compared the number, the type, the approval of pharmaceutical interventions and the medication reconciliation activities. Proportions were compared by a chisquared test (or Fisher exact test) as well as the quantitative value was calculated by a Student test.

Results

‘Mentoring and supervising’ students in the ward increased significantly the number of pharmaceutical interventions (PI; 104 interventions for 1408 analyzed prescriptions (7.4%) by the students in the ward and 317 interventions for 1391 (22.8%) by both the experienced pharmacist and the students in the ward (P= 0.002). Furthermore, specific interventions from medication reconciliation were significantly increased by the presence of experienced pharmacist in the ward (0.96% vs. 8.83%P= 0.018).

Conclusion

Effectiveness of clinical pharmacists can be improved by the presence of experienced pharmacist at patients’ bedside, near students.
Combining training in knowledge translation with quality improvement reduced 30‐day heart failure readmissions in a community hospital: a case study
Authors: Wyer Peter , Stojanovic Zorica , Shaffer Jonathan A. , Placencia Mitzy , Klink Kathleen , Fosina Michael J. , Lin Susan X. , Barron Beth , Graham Ian D.
Published: September 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

Training programmes in evidence‐based practice (EBP) frequently fail to translate their content into practice change and care improvement. We linked multidisciplinary training in EBP to an initiative to decrease 30‐day readmissions among patients admitted to a community teaching hospital for heart failure (HF).

Methods

Hospital staff reflecting all services and disciplines relevant to care of patients with HF attended a 3‐day innovative capacity building conference in evidence‐based health care over a 3‐year period beginning in 2009. The team, facilitated by a conference faculty member, applied a knowledge‐to‐action model taught at the conference. We reviewed published research, profiled our population and practice experience, developed a three‐phase protocol and implemented it in late 2010. We tracked readmission rates, adverse clinical outcomes and programme cost.

Results

The protocol emphasized patient education, medication reconciliation and transition to community‐based care. Senior administration approved a full‐time nurse HF coordinator. Thirty‐day HF readmissions decreased from 23.1% to 16.4% (adjusted OR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.42–0.97) during the year following implementation. Corresponding rates in another hospital serving the same population but not part of the programme were 22.3% and 20.2% (adjusted OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.71–1.08). Adherence to mandated HF quality measures improved. Following a start‐up cost of $15 000 US, programme expenses balanced potential savings from decreased HF readmissions.

Conclusion

Training of a multidisciplinary hospital team in use of a knowledge translation model, combined with ongoing facilitation, led to implementation of a budget neutral programme that decreased HF readmissions.
Explosive development of pectoral muscle fibres in large juvenile blue catfish Ictalurus furcatus
Authors: Lahiri S. , Fine M. L.
Published: September 2015

As part of an effort on scaling of pectoral spines and muscles, the basis for growth was examined in six pectoral muscles in juvenile blue catfish Ictalurus furcatus, the largest catfish in North America. Fibre number increases slowly in fish from 13·0 to 26·4 cm in total length, doubles by 27·0 cm and remains stable in larger individuals. Simultaneously, mean fibre diameter decreases by half, caused by the addition of new small fibres, before increasing non‐linearly in larger fish. The orders of magnitude disparity between the size at hatching and the size of large adults may have selected for rapid muscle fibre addition at a threshold size.
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is strongly associated with sarcopenic obesity in patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplant evaluation
Authors: Carias Sandra , Castellanos Ana Lia , Vilchez Valery , Nair Rashmi , Dela Cruz Anna Christina , Watkins Jennifer , Barrett Terrence , Trushar Patel , Esser Karyn , Gedaly Roberto
Published: September 2015

Background

Sarcopenia is the most common complication of cirrhosis and adversely affects quality of life and outcomes before, during, and after liver transplantation. We studied predictors of sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity in patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplant (LT) evaluation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 207 adult cirrhotic patients that underwent LT from January 2008 to December 2013 was performed at our institution.

Results

Two hundred seven patients were evaluated, 68% were male with a mean age of 54 ± 8 years. The most common etiology of cirrhosis was alcoholic liver disease (38.6%), followed by chronic hepatitis C (38.2%), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (21.7%), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (24.6%). The mean body mass index of the cohort was of 30.1 ± 5.7 kg/m2. Forty‐eight percent of these patients were obese. Of the 207 patients, 88% had computed tomographic (CT) scans within 90 days before transplant; of these, 59% had sarcopenia found during LT evaluation. Of the patients with pretransplant sarcopenia, 59 had CT scan at 6 months posttransplant and 56 (95%) remained sarcopenic. Of the 56 patients who had sarcopenia at 6 months, 31 had available CT scans at 1 year, and 100% persisted with sarcopenia. These 31 subjects had a mean skeletal muscle index of 35 at 6 months and 36 at 1 year. SO was found in 41.7% of our patients.

On multivariable regression analysis, obesity and age were found to be independently associated with pretransplant sarcopenia after controlling for gender and alcohol liver disease diagnosis (P = 0.00001, odds ratio [OR] 0.22, and P = 0.008, OR 2.0, respectively). A multivariable logistic regression analysis found that NASH as cause of cirrhosis and model of end‐stage liver disease score are independent predictors of sarcopenic obesity after controlling for age, gender, alcoholic liver disease diagnosis, and HCC (P = 0.014 and 0.038, respectively; 95% confidence interval, 1.44–25.26 and 1.00–1.15, respectively; OR 6.03, 1.08, respectively).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity is seen in a significant number of patients with cirrhosis undergoing LT evaluation. Sarcopenia progresses after LT initially and does not recover at least within the first year after surgery. Obesity is an independent predictor of pretransplant sarcopenia and NASH was associated with 6‐fold increased risk of having sarcopenic obesity in cirrhotic patients in our cohort.
Estimating Cost of Equity: Do You Need to Adjust for Foreign Exchange Risk?
Authors: Krapl Alain , O'Brien Thomas J.
Published: September 2015

Empirical reports of priced foreign exchange (FX) risk raise the question of whether managers should adjust their cost of equity estimates for FX risk. To study this question, we empirically compare the cost of equity estimates of several risk–return models, including some that have explicit FX risk premia and others that do not. We find that adjusting for FX risk makes little difference, on average, in the cost of equity estimates, even for small firms and firms with extreme FX exposure estimates.
A CLOSER LOOK AT VALUE PREMIUM: LITERATURE REVIEW AND SYNTHESIS
Authors: Pätäri Eero , Leivo Timo
Published: September 2015

This paper provides a systematic review of value premium literature that examines the performance difference between value and growth stocks and the possible reasons for it. We compare and synthesize the results from the different regional stock markets and different sample periods. The literature is categorized according to stock selection criteria that are based on either individual valuation ratios, such as E/P, B/P, D/P, S/P, CF/P, and enterprise value‐based multiples, or composite value criteria that aim to capture more than one dimension of relative value simultaneously or combine them with other classification criteria. We also compare the efficacy of various selection criteria to each other and synthesize the literature on the explanations for the value anomalies. The overall evidence shows that the best criterion varies over time and across the markets. The relative efficacy of different valuation criteria also seems to depend on numerous methodological choices. Recent studies have given mild evidence that combining traditional valuation ratios either with each other or with some financial statement variables could at least in some cases enhance the value premium, although very few studies have provided transparent comparisons between the results based on individual valuation ratios and those based on composite value criteria.
Infertility work‐up: To what degree does laparoscopy change the management strategy based on hysterosalpingography findings?
Authors: Berker Bülent , Şükür Yavuz Emre , Aytaç Ruşen , Atabekoğlu Cem Somer , Sönmezer Murat , Özmen Batuhan
Published: September 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of hysterosalpingography (HSG) on tubal patency (TP) and to determine whether performing laparoscopy (LS) can change the original management strategy based on HSG findings.

Material and Methods

Records of all infertile couples (n = 1298) treated at a university‐based infertility clinic between January 2002 and June 2010 were reviewed. All patients who had both HSG and LS testing (n = 264) were included in the study. HSG was performed in an attempt to rule out tubal and/or uterine pathologies. All patients included in the study were evaluated with LS not more than 12 months after HSG.

Results

The validity of HSG screening for TP was calculated as 84.1%. The positive and negative predictive values of HSG were 54.6% and 98.3%, respectively. The sensitivity of HSG was higher in patients with distal tubal occlusion than in patients with proximal tubal occlusion (69.8% [44/63] vs 46.7% [28/60], respectively; P = 0.011). The rates of management plan change in patients with bilateral TP, unilateral tubal occlusion and bilateral tubal occlusion were 2.8%, 12.2% and 32.4%, respectively (P = 0.000).

Conclusions

Patients with both unilateral tubal occlusion and bilateral tubal occlusion on HSG should be reevaluated with LS to determine the appropriate management strategy.
Mutation scanning of BRAF,NRAS,KIT, and GNAQ/GNA11 in oral mucosal melanoma: a study of 57 cases
Authors: Lyu Jiong , Wu Yunteng , Li Chaojun , Wang Runxiang , Song Hao , Ren Guoxin , Guo Wei
Published: September 2015

Background

Recent advances in novel targeted therapies have created the need for molecular characterization of cancer to allow accurate personalized treatments. In this study, our aim was to investigate the incidence of activating mutations of oncogenes BRAF, NRAS, KIT, and GNAQ/GNA11 in oral mucosal melanoma.

Methods

We analyzed a cohort of 57 oral mucosal melanoma samples, including 27 frozen samples and 30 formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded samples. The tumors were screened for hotspot mutations of BRAF (exon 15), NRAS (exons 2 and 3), KIT (exons 9, 11, 13, and 17), and GNAQ/GNA11 (exon 5) by high‐resolution melting and direct sequencing.

Results

In oral mucosal melanoma, 7.0% of tumors harbored KIT mutations and 3.5% harbored BRAF mutations, while classic BRAF V600E mutation was not detected. We found no mutations of NRAS or GNAQ/GNA11 in oral mucosal melanoma.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that driver mutations are rare in mutational hotspots of BRAF, NRAS, KIT, and GNAQ/GNA11 in oral mucosal melanoma. The majority of patients will not benefit from KIT and BRAF inhibitors.
Genetic variation in PTX3 and plasma levels associated with hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with HCV
Authors: Carmo R. F. , Aroucha D. , Vasconcelos L. R. S. , Pereira L.M.M.B. , Moura P. , Cavalcanti M.S.M.
Published: September 2015

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the main cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. The risk to develop HCC increases with the severity of liver inflammation and fibrosis. Long pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a soluble pattern‐recognition receptor produced by phagocytes and nonimmune cells at sites of inflammation or injury. The aim of the present study was to determine the association of PTX3 polymorphisms and its plasma levels with HCC occurrence among patients with HCV. Samples from 524 patients with chronic hepatitis C were evaluated in this study. Two polymorphisms (rs1840680 and rs2305619) in the PTX3 gene were determined by real‐time PCR. PTX3 plasma levels were measured by Enzyme‐linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Our data show a significant association between PTX3 polymorphisms and HCC occurrence in univariate and multivariate analysis (P = 0.024). Patients with HCC had higher PTX3 plasma levels compared to individuals with mild or severe fibrosis (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.002, respectively). In addition, PTX3 rs2305619 polymorphism and plasma levels were correlated with Child‐Pugh scores B and C in HCC individuals. PTX3 seems to be a risk factor for HCC occurrence in chronic hepatitis C. This is the first study that evaluates PTX3 in the context of hepatitis C.
Genetic spell‐checking: gene editing using single‐stranded DNA oligonucleotides
Authors: Rivera‐Torres Natalia , Kmiec Eric B.
Published: September 2015

Single‐stranded oligonucleotides (ssODNs) can be used to direct the exchange of a single nucleotide or the repair of a single base within the coding region of a gene in a process that is known, generically, as gene editing. These molecules are composed of either all DNA residues or a mixture of RNA and DNA bases and utilize inherent metabolic functions to execute the genetic alteration within the context of a chromosome. The mechanism of action of gene editing is now being elucidated as well as an understanding of its regulatory circuitry, work that has been particularly important in establishing a foundation for designing effective gene editing strategies in plants. Double‐strand DNA breakage and the activation of the DNA damage response pathway play key roles in determining the frequency with which gene editing activity takes place. Cellular regulators respond to such damage and their action impacts the success or failure of a particular nucleotide exchange reaction. A consequence of such activation is the natural slowing of replication fork progression, which naturally creates a more open chromatin configuration, thereby increasing access of the oligonucleotide to the DNA template. Herein, how critical reaction parameters influence the effectiveness of gene editing is discussed. Functional interrelationships between DNA damage, the activation of DNA response pathways and the stalling of replication forks are presented in detail as potential targets for increasing the frequency of gene editing by ssODNs in plants and plant cells.
Two new HLA‐B35 subtypes characterized in Spaniards: HLA‐B*35:270 and HLA‐B*35:273
Authors: Sánchez‐Gordo F. , Pacho A. , Balas A. , Arrieta A. , Vicario J. L.
Published: September 2015

Two new HLA‐B*35 alleles, B*35:270 and B*35:273, were characterized in the Spanish population.
Dreams, Perception, and Creative Realization
Authors: Glaskin Katie
Published: September 2015

This article draws on the ethnography of Aboriginal Australia to argue that perceptual openness, extending from waking life into dreaming experience, provides an important cognitive framework for the apprehension of dreamt experience in these contexts. I argue that this perceptual openness is analogous to the “openness to experience” described as a personality trait that had been linked with dream recall frequency (among other things). An implication of identifying perceptual openness at a cultural rather than at an individual level is two‐fold. It provides an example of the ways in which cultural differences affect perception, indicative of cognitive diversity; and, given the relationship between dreams and creativity suggested anecdotally and through research, a cultural orientation toward perceptual openness is also likely to have implications for the realization of creativity that occurs through dreams. Such creativity though cannot be separated from the relational context in which such dreamt material is elaborated and understood.
Small‐molecule auxin inhibitors that target YUCCA are powerful tools for studying auxin function
Authors: Kakei Yusuke , Yamazaki Chiaki , Suzuki Masashi , Nakamura Ayako , Sato Akiko , Ishida Yosuke , Kikuchi Rie , Higashi Shouichi , Kokudo Yumiko , Ishii Takahiro , Soeno Kazuo , Shimada Yukihisa
Published: September 2015

Auxin is essential for plant growth and development, this makes it difficult to study the biological function of auxin using auxin‐deficient mutants. Chemical genetics have the potential to overcome this difficulty by temporally reducing the auxin function using inhibitors. Recently, the indole‐3‐pyruvate (IPyA) pathway was suggested to be a major biosynthesis pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana L. for indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA), the most common member of the auxin family. In this pathway, YUCCA, a flavin‐containing monooxygenase (YUC), catalyzes the last step of conversion from IPyA to IAA. In this study, we screened effective inhibitors, 4‐biphenylboronic acid (BBo) and 4‐phenoxyphenylboronic acid (PPBo), which target YUC. These compounds inhibited the activity of recombinant YUC in vitro, reduced endogenous IAA content, and inhibited primary root elongation and lateral root formation in wild‐type Arabidopsis seedlings. Co‐treatment with IAA reduced the inhibitory effects. Kinetic studies of BBo and PPBo showed that they are competitive inhibitors of the substrate IPyA. Inhibition constants (Ki) of BBo and PPBo were 67 and 56 nm, respectively. In addition, PPBo did not interfere with the auxin response of auxin‐marker genes when it was co‐treated with IAA, suggesting that PPBo is not an inhibitor of auxin sensing or signaling. We propose that these compounds are a class of auxin biosynthesis inhibitors that target YUC. These small molecules are powerful tools for the chemical genetic analysis of auxin function.
Dissecting the contributions of GC content and codon usage to gene expression in the model alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Barahimipour Rouhollah , Strenkert Daniela , Neupert Juliane , Schroda Michael , Merchant Sabeeha S. , Bock Ralph
Published: September 2015

The efficiency of gene expression in all organisms depends on the nucleotide composition of the coding region. GC content and codon usage are the two key sequence features known to influence gene expression, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are not entirely clear. Here we have determined the relative contributions of GC content and codon usage to the efficiency of nuclear gene expression in the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. By comparing gene variants that encode an identical amino acid sequence but differ in their GC content and/or codon usage, we show that codon usage is the key factor determining translational efficiency and, surprisingly, also mRNA stability. By contrast, unfavorable GC content affects gene expression at the level of the chromatin structure by triggering heterochromatinization. We further show that mutant algal strains that permit high‐level transgene expression are less susceptible to epigenetic transgene suppression and do not establish a repressive chromatin structure at the transgenic locus. Our data disentangle the relationship between GC content and codon usage, and suggest simple strategies to overcome the transgene expression problem in Chlamydomonas.
Hepatitis E virus and the safety of plasma products: investigations into the reduction capacity of manufacturing processes
Authors: Farcet Maria R. , Lackner Cornelia , Antoine Gerhard , Rabel Philip O. , Wieser Andreas , Flicker Andreas , Unger Ulrike , Modrof Jens , Kreil Thomas R.
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) has been transmitted by transfusion of labile blood products and the occasional detection of HEV RNA in plasma pools indicates that HEV viremic donations might enter the manufacturing process of plasma products. To verify the safety margins of plasma products with respect to HEV, virus reduction steps commonly used in their manufacturing processes were investigated for their effectiveness to reduce HEV.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Detection methods for HEV removal (by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction) and inactivation (using an infectivity assay) were established. Immunoaffinity chromatography and 20‐nm virus filtration for Factor (F)VIII, cold ethanol fractionation, and low‐pH treatment for immunoglobulin, heat treatment for human albumin, and 35‐nm nanofiltration for FVIII inhibitor‐bypassing activity (FEIBA) were investigated for their capacity to reduce HEV or the physicochemically similar viruses feline calicivirus (FCV) and hepatitis A virus (HAV).

RESULTS

For FVIII, HEV reduction of 3.9 and more than 3.9 log was demonstrated for immunoaffinity chromatography and 20‐nm nanofiltration, respectively, and the cold ethanol fractionation for immunoglobulin removed more than 3.5 log of HEV, to below the limit of detection (LOD). Heat treatment of human albumin inactivated more than 3.1 log of HEV to below the LOD and 35‐nm nanofiltration removed 4.0 log of HEV from the FEIBA intermediate. The results indicated HAV rather than FCV as the more relevant model virus for HEV.

CONCLUSION

Substantial HEV reduction during processes commonly used in the manufacturing of plasma products was demonstrated, similar to that previously demonstrated for HAV.
Étale motives
Authors: Cisinski Denis-Charles , Déglise Frédéric
Published: September 2015

We define a theory of étale motives over a noetherian scheme. This provides a system of categories of complexes of motivic sheaves with integral coefficients which is closed under the six operations of Grothendieck. The rational part of these categories coincides with the triangulated categories of Beilinson motives (and is thus strongly related to algebraic$K$-theory). We extend the rigidity theorem of Suslin and Voevodsky over a general base scheme. This can be reformulated by saying that torsion étale motives essentially coincide with the usual complexes of torsion étale sheaves (at least if we restrict ourselves to torsion prime to the residue characteristics). As a consequence, we obtain the expected results of absolute purity, of finiteness, and of Grothendieck duality for étale motives with integral coefficients, by putting together their counterparts for Beilinson motives and for torsion étale sheaves. Following Thomason’s insights, this also provides a conceptual and convenient construction of the$\ell$-adic realization of motives, as the homotopy$\ell$-completion functor.
Orderability and the Weinstein conjecture
Authors: Albers Peter , Fuchs Urs , Merry Will J.
Published: September 2015

In this article we prove that the Weinstein conjecture holds for contact manifolds $({\rm\Sigma},{\it\xi})$ for which $\text{Cont}_{0}({\rm\Sigma},{\it\xi})$ is non-orderable in the sense of Eliashberg and Polterovich [Partially ordered groups and geometry of contact transformations, Geom. Funct. Anal. 10 (2000), 1448–1476]. More precisely, we establish a link between orderable and hypertight contact manifolds. In addition, we prove for certain contact manifolds a conjecture by Sandon [A Morse estimate for translated points of contactomorphisms of spheres and projective spaces, Geom. Dedicata 165 (2013), 95–110] on the existence of translated points in the non-degenerate case.
β‐Adrenergic modulation of skeletal muscle contraction: key role of excitation–contraction coupling
Authors: Cairns Simeon P. , Borrani Fabio
Published: September 2015

Our aim is to describe the acute effects of catecholamines/β‐adrenergic agonists on contraction of non‐fatigued skeletal muscle in animals and humans, and explain the mechanisms involved. Adrenaline/β‐agonists (0.1–30 μm) generally augment peak force across animal species (positive inotropic effect) and abbreviate relaxation of slow‐twitch muscles (positive lusitropic effect). A peak force reduction also occurs in slow‐twitch muscles in some conditions. β2‐Adrenoceptor stimulation activates distinct cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinases to phosphorylate multiple target proteins. β‐Agonists modulate sarcolemmal processes (increased resting membrane potential and action potential amplitude) via enhanced Na+–K+ pump and Na+–K+–2Cl− cotransporter function, but this does not increase force. Myofibrillar Ca2+ sensitivity and maximum Ca2+‐activated force are unchanged. All force potentiation involves amplified myoplasmic Ca2+ transients consequent to increased Ca2+ release from sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). This unequivocally requires phosphorylation of SR Ca2+ release channels/ryanodine receptors (RyR1) which sensitize the Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release mechanism. Enhanced trans‐sarcolemmal Ca2+ influx through phosphorylated voltage‐activated Ca2+ channels contributes to force potentiation in diaphragm and amphibian muscle, but not mammalian limb muscle. Phosphorylation of phospholamban increases SR Ca2+ pump activity in slow‐twitch fibres but does not augment force; this process accelerates relaxation and may depress force. Greater Ca2+ loading of SR may assist force potentiation in fast‐twitch muscle. Some human studies show no significant force potentiation which appears to be related to the β‐agonist concentration used. Indeed high‐dose β‐agonists (∼0.1 μm) enhance SR Ca2+‐release rates, maximum voluntary contraction strength and peak Wingate power in trained humans. The combined findings can explain how adrenaline/β‐agonists influence muscle performance during exercise/stress in humans.

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Shape Analysis of the Femoral Head: A Comparative Study Between Spherical, (Super)Ellipsoidal, and (Super)Ovoidal Shapes
Authors: Lopes Daniel Simões , Neptune Richard R. , Gonçalves Artur A. , Ambrósio Jorge A. , Silva Miguel T.
Published: September 2015

In this work, MacConaill's classification that the articular surface of the femoral head is better represented by ovoidal shapes rather than purely spherical shapes is computationally tested. To test MacConaill's classification, a surface fitting framework was developed to fit spheres, ellipsoids, superellipsoids, ovoids, and superovoids to computed tomography (CT) data of the femoral proximal epiphysis. The framework includes several image processing and computational geometry techniques, such as active contour segmentation and mesh smoothing, where implicit surface fitting is performed with genetic algorithms. By comparing the surface fitting error statistics, the results indicate that (super)ovoids fit femoral articular surfaces better than spherical or (super)ellipsoidal shapes.
Reliability of BOD POD Measurements Remains High After a Short-Duration Low-Carbohydrate Diet
Authors: Greer Beau Kjerulf , Edsall Kathleen M. , Greer Anna E.
Published: September 2015

The purpose of the current study was to determine whether expected changes in body weight via a 3-day low-carbohydrate (LC) diet will disrupt the reliability of air displacement plethysmography measurements via BOD POD. Twenty-four subjects recorded their typical diets for 3 days before BOD POD and 7-site skinfold analyses. Subjects were matched for lean body mass and divided into low-CHO (LC) and control (CON) groups. The LC group was given instruction intended to prevent more than 50 grams/day of carbohydrate consumption for 3 consecutive days, and the CON group replicated their previously recorded diet. Body composition measurements were repeated after dietary intervention. Test–retest reliability measures were significant (p < .01) and high for body fat percentage in both the LC and the CON groups (rs = .993 and .965, respectively). Likewise, skinfold analysis for body fat percentage reliability was high in both groups (rs = .996 and .997, respectively). There were significant differences between 1st and 2nd BOD POD measurements for body mass (72.9 ± 13.3 vs. 72.1 ± 13.0 kg [M ± SD]) and body volume (69.0 ± 12.7–68.1 ± 12.2 L) in the LC group (p < .05). However, there were no differences (p > .05) in BOD POD–determined body fat percentage, lean body mass, or fat mass between the 1st and 2nd trial in either group. Body composition measures via BOD POD and 7-site skinfolds remain reliable after 3 days of an LC diet despite significant decreases in body mass.
Athlete Burnout and the Risk of Dropout Among Young Elite Handball Players
Authors: Isoard-Gautheur Sandrine , Guillet-Descas Emma , Gustafsson Henrik
Published: September 2015

The negative feelings that are part of burnout syndrome may prompt athletes to drop out of their sport. The objective of the current study was therefore to examine the influence of athlete burnout profiles on playing status 6 years later. The participants of this study were 458 boys and girls between 14 and 18 years old (M = 15.44; SD = .95) enrolled in elite handball training centers. Cluster analysis on athlete burnout and multinomial logistic regressions on the playing status were conducted. The results suggest that those individuals with a “higher burnout” profile at Time 1 were more likely to have stopped playing handball 6 years later. It therefore seems important to develop strategies to prevent burnout in young athletes enrolled in elite training structures and to promote long-term engagement and well-being in elite sporting activity.