bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpressed NLRC3 Acts as an Anti-Inflammatory Cytosolic Protein
Authors: Gültekin Yetiş , Eren Elif , Özören Nesrin
Published: September 2014

The novel nucleotide oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor (NLR) with a caspase activation and recruitment domain (CARD) 3 (NLRC3) protein belongs to the NLR family of cytosolic pathogen recognition receptors. NLRC3 has the characteristic NOD and leucine-rich repeat configuration with a less well defined CARD. T lymphocytes are known to have high NLRC3 expression, which may be involved in suppression of T cell activation. Here, we report that NLRC3 is a cytoplasmic protein that negatively regulates pro-IL-1β maturation. Among well-known inflammasome components, NLRC3 can interact with apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC) and caspases 1 and 5. Transient transfection of NLRC3 into stable EGFP-ASC-expressing HEK293FT cells reduces NLR family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3)/cryopyrin-induced formation of ASC specks in a dose- and time-dependent manner. This suggests that NLRC3 can regulate ASC speck formation, caspase-1 activation and IL-1β maturation. We show for the first time that inflammasome-like complexes assemble when caspase-1 and ASC are cotransfected together with NLRC3 in HEK293FT cells. However, overexpression of NLRC3 with NLRP3/cryopyrin inflammasome components suppresses pro-caspase-1 cleavage and IL-1β processing. Our study suggests that NLRC3 negatively regulates inflammatory responses.
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and the role of platelets in infection
Authors: Andrews Robert , Arthur Jane , Gardiner Elizabeth
Published: September 2014

In addition to playing a central role in normal haemostasis, platelets make important contributions to host inflammatory and immune responses to injury or infection. Under pathophysiological conditions where platelet function is not tightly controlled, platelets also play critical roles in pathogenic processes underlying cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled inflammation, coagulopathy and in tumour metastasis. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are webs of histone-modified nuclear material extruded from activated neutrophils during inflammatory responses and these degranulation events can be directly triggered by platelet/neutrophil engagement. Emerging research describes how NETs influence platelet function, particularly in the setting of infection and inflammation. Especially intriguing is the potential for platelet-driven coagulation to be modulated by NETs in plasma and interstitial spaces. These findings also reveal new perspectives related to improved therapy for venous thrombosis.
Clinical Characteristics and Circumstances of Death in the Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome
Authors: Mellor Greg , Raju Hariharan , de Noronha Sofia V. , Papadakis Michael , Sharma Sanjay , Behr Elijah R. , Sheppard Mary N.
Published: September 2014

Background—

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a devastating event in the young. Referral to a specialist cardiac pathologist is recommended. Age, sex, and circumstances of death may reflect underlying diagnoses. We aim to describe the demographics of victims and circumstances surrounding sudden cardiac death with a normal heart (ie, sudden arrhythmic death syndrome).

Methods and Results—

There were 2156 cases of sudden cardiac death from across the United Kingdom referred to a tertiary cardiac pathology service from 1994 to 2010. We analyzed 967 consecutive cases (61% male; median age 29 years) with a normal heart at postmortem. Information from referring coroners’ reports was used to ascertain clinical information. Familial evaluation was performed in 5% of cases. Information from these cases was used to determine the likely accuracy of coronial reports. Deaths during sleep or at rest were more common than deaths during exercise or with emotional stress: 82% versus 16%. Death with exercise/stress was more common in males (relative risk, 2.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.56–3.47;
P
<0.001) and those under 18 years of age: males, relative risk, 2.41 (95% confidence interval, 1.69–3.13;
P
<0.001) and females, relative risk, 2.91 (95% confidence interval, 1.80–4.01;
P
<0.001)). Prior syncope (4.1%), documented arrhythmia (3.4%), and family history of sudden death (4.2%) were uncommon. Epilepsy had been diagnosed in 6.6%.

Conclusions—

Death caused by sudden arrhythmic death syndrome is more common at rest or during sleep. Death with exercise/stress is more common in males and those aged below 18 years. Up to 90% of SADS victims have no preceding symptoms or recognized risk factors for sudden death. Epilepsy may be considered a risk factor for SADS.
An Evaluation of Surface Atmospheric Changes over the Arctic Ocean for 2000–09 Using Recent Reanalyses
Authors: Chaudhuri Ayan H. , Ponte Rui M.
Published: September 2014

The authors examine five recent reanalysis products [NCEP Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR), Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA), Japanese 25-year Reanalysis Project (JRA-25), Interim ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim), and Arctic System Reanalysis (ASR)] for 1) trends in near-surface radiation fluxes, air temperature, and humidity, which are important indicators of changes within the Arctic Ocean and also influence sea ice and ocean conditions, and 2) fidelity of these atmospheric fields and effects for an extreme event: namely, the 2007 ice retreat. An analysis of trends over the Arctic for the past decade (2000–09) shows that reanalysis solutions have large spreads, particularly for downwelling shortwave radiation. In many cases, the differences in significant trends between the five reanalysis products are comparable to the estimated trend within a particular product. These discrepancies make it difficult to establish a consensus on likely changes occurring in the Arctic solely based on results from reanalyses fields. Regarding the 2007 ice retreat event, comparisons with remotely sensed estimates of downwelling radiation observations against these reanalysis products present an ambiguity. Remotely sensed observations from a study cited herewith suggest a large increase in downwelling summertime shortwave radiation and decrease in downwelling summertime longwave radiation from 2006 and 2007. On the contrary, the reanalysis products show only small gains in summertime shortwave radiation, if any; however, all the products show increases in downwelling longwave radiation. Thus, agreement within reanalysis fields needs to be further checked against observations to assess possible biases common to all products.
In situ Measurements of Momentum Fluxes in Typhoons
Authors: Potter Henry , Graber Hans C. , Williams Neil J. , Collins Clarence O. , Ramos Rafael J. , Drennan William M.
Published: September 2014

One of the scientific objectives of the U.S. Office of Naval Research–sponsored Impact of Typhoons on the Ocean in the Pacific (ITOP) campaign was improved understanding of air–sea fluxes at high wind speeds. Here the authors present the first-ever direct measurements of momentum fluxes recorded in typhoons near the surface. Data were collected from a moored buoy over 3 months during the 2010 Pacific typhoon season. During this period, three typhoons and a tropical storm were encountered. Maximum 30-min sustained wind speeds above 26 m s−1 were recorded. Data are presented for 1245 h of direct flux measurements. The drag coefficient shows evidence of a rolloff at wind speeds greater than 22 m s−1, which occurred during the passage of a single typhoon. This result is in agreement with other studies but occurs at a lower wind speed than previously measured. The authors conclude that this rolloff was caused by a reduction in the turbulent momentum flux at the frequency of the peak waves during strongly forced conditions.
Parameterization of Cloud Microphysics Based on the Prediction of Bulk Ice Particle Properties. Part I: Scheme Description and Idealized Tests
Authors: Morrison Hugh , Milbrandt Jason A.
Published: September 2014

A method for the parameterization of ice-phase microphysics is proposed and used to develop a new bulk microphysics scheme. All ice-phase particles are represented by several physical properties that evolve freely in time and space. The scheme prognoses four ice mixing ratio variables, total mass, rime mass, rime volume, and number, allowing 4 degrees of freedom for representing the particle properties using a single category. This approach represents a significant departure from traditional microphysics schemes in which ice-phase hydrometeors are partitioned into various predefined categories (e.g., cloud ice, snow, and graupel) with prescribed characteristics. The liquid-phase component of the new scheme uses a standard two-moment, two-category approach.

The proposed method and a complete description of the new predicted particle properties (P3) scheme are provided. Results from idealized model simulations of a two-dimensional squall line are presented that illustrate overall behavior of the scheme. Despite its use of a single ice-phase category, the scheme simulates a realistically wide range of particle characteristics in different regions of the squall line, consistent with observed ice particles in real squall lines. Sensitivity tests show that both the prediction of the rime mass fraction and the rime density are important for the simulation of the squall-line structure and precipitation.
Mechanisms of Multidecadal Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation Variability Diagnosed in Depth versus Density Space
Authors: Kwon Young-Oh , Frankignoul Claude
Published: September 2014

Multidecadal variability of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) is examined based on a comparison of the AMOC streamfunctions in depth and in density space, in a 700-yr present-day control integration of the fully coupled Community Climate System Model, version 3. The commonly used depth-coordinate AMOC primarily exhibits the variability associated with the deep equatorward transport that follows the changes in the Labrador Sea deep water formation. On the other hand, the density-based AMOC emphasizes the variability associated with the subpolar gyre circulation in the upper ocean leading to the changes in the Labrador Sea convection. Combining the two representations indicates that the ~20-yr periodicity of the AMOC variability in the first half of the simulation is primarily due to an ocean-only mode resulting from the coupling of the deep equatorward flow and the upper ocean gyre circulation near the Gulf Stream and North Atlantic Current. In addition, the density-based AMOC reveals a gradual change in the deep ocean associated with cooling and increased density, which is likely responsible for the transition of AMOC variability from strong ~20-yr oscillations to a weaker red noise–like multidecadal variability.
The protective role of bee honey against the toxic effect of melamine in the male rat kidney
Authors: Al-Seeni Madeha N , El Rabey Haddad A , Al-Solamy Suad M
Published: September 2014

This study aimed to test the protective role of natural bee honey against melamine toxicity in the kidney of male albino rats. The dietary supplementation of melamine at a dose of 20,000 ppm for 28 days induced renal dysfunction, as reflected by a significant increase in kidney function parameters (urea, creatinine, and uric acid) and an increase in potassium levels. In addition, a decrease in catalase and glutathione- S-transferase and an increase in lipid peroxide in the kidney tissue homogenate were also observed. Histological changes in the melamine-treated group revealed hyperplasia and damage in kidney cells and the accumulation of melamine crystals in kidney tissues. Honey treatment for 28 days in rats concurrently administered melamine at a dose of 2.5 g/kg body weight for 28 days improved the kidney function, increased antioxidant enzymes, and decreased lipid peroxide levels. The morphology of the kidney cells of the melamine-fed rats was also improved as a result of honey treatment. In conclusion, this study revealed that natural bee honey protects the kidney against the adverse effects induced by melamine toxicity in male albino rats.
Capitalizing on emergence: The ‘new’ civil security market in Europe
Authors: Hoijtink Marijn
Published: September 2014

In recent years, the European Union has supported the development of a new civil security market, capable of providing security technology for new and global security challenges. This article analyses the emerging growth market for civil security in relation to contemporary notions of potential crisis and emergency. Building on ongoing academic analysis of what Melinda Cooper has termed ‘economies of emergence’, the article points out how the figure of emergence generates investment in more flexible, adaptive and, so it is argued, potentially lucrative markets for civil security. Drawing on observations at a number of security trade shows and stakeholder workshops, the analysis demonstrates that ‘civil’ aspirations, concepts and technologies build on earlier formulations of military strategic discourse in the so-called Revolution in Military Affairs – though in complex and sometimes contradictory ways. More generally, the motivation behind the analysis is to investigate civil security and civil markets as performative enactments, and so to critically engage with the emergence of the civil security market as a priority in EU policymaking.
Ring-shaped calcific constrictive pericarditis strangling the heart: a case report
Authors: Lee Mu Sook , Choi Joon Hyouk , Kim Young Uck , Kim Su Wan
Published: September 2014

Constrictive pericarditis is caused by fibrosis and calcification of the pericardium, processes that inhibit diastolic filling of the heart. For the diagnosis of constrictive pericarditis, a combined approach is used to evaluate the morphologic pericardial abnormalities in conjunction with assessment of the functional and hemodynamic changes. We report novel findings of chest computed tomography (CT) and chest roentgenogram with respect to a ring-shaped pericardial calcification on atrioventricular groove causing strangulation of the heart in the patient with constrictive pericarditis, which is anatomically rarer than other severe cases of constrictive pericarditis encasing the entire heart.
Trametes meyenii possesses elevated dye degradation abilities under normal nutritional conditions compared to other white rot fungi
Authors: Chenaux Peter R , Lalji Narisa , Lefebvre Daniel D
Published: September 2014

Several species of white-rot fungi were investigated for their utility in prolonged decolouration of the recalcitrant sulfonated azo dye, amaranth. Trametes pubescens, T. multicolor, T. meyenii and T. versicolor decoloured amaranth azo-dye best on low-nitrogen agar-solidified media whereas Bjerkandera adusta and Phlebia radiata were most effective in low nitrogen medium supplemented with manganese. Trametes cotonea did not decolour effectively under any condition. The decolouring Trametes species were also effective in liquid culture whereas B. adusta and P. radiata were not. Trametes meyenii, T. pubescens and T. multicolor were equal to or better than commonly employed T. versicolor at decolouring amaranth. This is the first study to show the dye decolouration potential of T. meyenii, T. pubescens, and T. multicolor. Supplementing with Mn(II) increased assayable manganese peroxidase activity, but not long-term decolouration, indicating that laccase is the main decolourizing enzyme in these Trametes species. This appears to be because of inadequate Mn3+ chelation required by manganese peroxidase because adding relatively low amounts of malonate enhanced decolouration rates. The ability of Trametes meyenii to simultaneously decolour dye over prolonged periods of time while growing in relatively nutrient-rich medium appears to be unique amongst white-rot fungi, indicating its potential in wastewater bioremediation.
Management of thrombocythemia
Authors: Gowin Krisstina , Mesa Ruben
Published: September 2014

Essential thrombocythemia is a clonal myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by an elevated platelet count, the potential for both microvascular and macrovascular sequelae, and a risk for transformation to myelofibrosis or acute myeloid leukemia. A systematic and detailed initial analysis is essential for accurate diagnosis of essential thrombocythemia, as many etiologies are reactive and benign. Once a diagnosis has been made, risk stratification and symptom assessment are vital to guide the subsequent therapy. Treatment may be required in high-risk disease, such as in cases of advanced age or prior thrombotic events. Systemic therapy is aimed at reducing the thrombotic risk and includes daily low dose aspirin and in some patients, cytoreductive therapy.  Currently, the first line cytoreductive therapy includes hydroxyurea or pegylated interferon, with a phase III clinical trial underway comparing these two important agents. Anagrelide and clinical trials are reserved for refractory or intolerant patients. Looking to the future, new therapies including Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and telomerase inhibitors are promising and may become valuable to the treatment armamentarium for those afflicted with essential thrombocythemia.
Efeito do tempo pós-queimada sobre comunidades de Tephritidae (Diptera) em áreas de cerrado na Chapada dos Guimarães – MT
Authors: Fávero Kellen , Bordignon Leandra , Junior Kleber Vecchi , Diniz Soraia
Published: September 2014

Este trabalho teve como objetivos: (i) analisar a riqueza, a abundância e a ocorrência de espécies de insetos endófagos de capítulos de Asteraceae da Chapada dos Guimarães-MT; (ii) avaliar o efeito do tempo decorrido pós-queimada sobre riqueza, abundância e distribuição de espécies de Tephritidae endófagos. Foram amostradas 13 áreas de cerrado nas quais foi traçado um transecto de 250m x 2m sobre uma isoclina topográfica. Todos os capítulos, de cada indivíduo florido, foram coletados e mantidos em potes telados para criação. Um total de 341 indivíduos pertencentes a sete espécies emergiram dos capítulos. Cecidochares e Xanthaciura foram os gêneros mais bem representados em relação ao número de espécies. A maioria dos insetos emergiu de capítulos coletados em apenas uma localidade. Somente Xanthaciura chrysura (Thomson) ocorreu em todas as localidades amostradas em que emergiram insetos. O tempo decorrido após a última queimada não teve efeito significativo sobre a riqueza, abundância e distribuição das espécies de Tephritidae endófagos.

Effect of Post-Fire Time on Tephritidae (Diptera) Communities in Cerrado Areas at Chapada dos Guimarães – MT.

Abstract. The objectives of this study were to: (i) analyze the richness, abundance, and occurrence of endophagous insects in capitula of Asteraceae at Chapada dos Guimarães; (ii) evaluate the effect of post-fire time on the richness, abundance, and distribution of endophagous Tephritidae species. Thirteen cerrado areas were sampled, onto which a 250m × 2m transect was established over a topographic isocline. All capitula from individual plants were collected and maintained in screened rearing pots. Three hundred and forty-one individuals belonging to seven species emerged from the flowerheads. Cecidochares and Xanthaciura were the best-represented genera in relation to the number of species. Most insects emerged from capitula collected at a single locality. Only Xanthaciura chrysura (Thomson) occurred in all of the sampled localities at which emerged insects were obtained. The time elapsed after the last fire did not have a significant effect on the richness, abundance, and distribution of endophagous Tephritidae species.
Mosquitos (Diptera: Culicidae) de uma futura Unidade de Conservação em área de Mata Atlântica no sul do Brasil
Authors: Marchi Marco Jacometto , Müller Gerson Azulim , Marcondes Carlos Brisola
Published: September 2014

Foram coletadas espécies de mosquitos antropofílicas em duas áreas de Mata Atlântica onde será implantada uma Unidade de Conservação no município de Itapema-SC. O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar o nível de preservação de duas áreas da Mata Atlântica através da composição da fauna de Culicidae. A diversidade de espécies mostrou-se semelhante nos dois locais de amostragem (Dm=4,02 na Praia Grossa e Dm = 4,04 em São Paulinho). O índice de similaridade entre as duas áreas foi: CCs = 0,57 e CMH = 0,07. O índice de dominância de Simpson foi de 0,63 para a Praia Grossa e 0,31 para São Paulinho. A maior abundância de Anopheles cruzii Dyar & Knabe Culex (Microculex) (táxons relacionados a áreas preservadas) em São Paulinho e de Ochlerotatus scapularis (Rondani) e Psorophora ferox (Humboldt) (táxons relacionados a áreas degradadas) na Praia Grossa sugere que a primeira área é mais preservada do que a segunda.

Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) of a Future Conservation Unit in the Area of Atlantic Forest in Southern Brazil.

Abstract. Anthropophilic mosquitoes were collected in two areas of the Atlantic Forest wich will constitute a Conservation Unit in the municipality of Itapema-SC. The aim of this study was to analyze the level of preservation of two areas of Atlantic Forest trough the composition of the Culicidae fauna. Species diversity was similar in both sampling sites (Dm = 4.02 in Praia Grossa and Dm = 4.04 in São Paulinho). Indices of similarity between the two areas were: CCs = 0.57 and CMH = 0.07. The Simpson’s dominance index was 0.63 in Praia Grossa and 0.31 in São Paulinho. The higher abundance of Anopheles cruzii Dyar & Knaband Culex (Microculex) (taxa related to preserved area) in São Paulinho and Ochlerotatus scapularis (Rondani) and Psorophora ferox (Humboldt) (taxa related to degraded area) in Praia Grossa suggests that the first area is more preserved than the last.
Simulating the Dynamic Escape Process in Large Public Places
Authors: Gao Ziyou , Qu Yunchao , Li Xingang , Long Jiancheng , Huang Hai-Jun
Published: September 2014

Pedestrian dynamics plays an important role in public facility design and evacuation management. During an escape process from a large public space, crowd behavior is a collection of pedestrian exit/route choice behavior, and movement behavior. Modelling such an escape process is an extremely complex challenge. In this paper, an integrated macro-micro approach is developed to simulate the escape process. An analysis of the simulation reveals the mechanisms of the formation of crowd congestion and flow distribution. At the macroscopic level, a mathematical model, based on the concept of the dynamic user optimal (DUO) criterion, is formulated to describe the pedestrian exit/route choice behavior. A method based on the fundamental diagram and point-queuing theory is developed to estimate the pedestrian escape time. At the microscopic level, a modified social force model is adopted to formulate pedestrians' dynamic movements during the escape process. A solution algorithm is proposed to solve the macro-micro integrated model and a series of experiments are carried out to validate the proposed model. The simulation results agree with the extracted experimental data. Finally, the integrated model and algorithm are used to simulate the escape process in a large public place. The proposed approach is able to generate the bandwagon effect, bottleneck effect, and route choice patterns.
Emergency management of a patient following a road traffic accident
Authors: McLauchlan Gerard , Belch Alex
Published: September 2014

Patients presenting following a road traffic accident (RTA) is a common emergency in small animal practice. As with all emergencies, the immediate concern should be on identifying any life threatening morbidities affecting the respiratory, cardiovascular/circulatory and neurological systems. Often, patients present in shock following trauma, and identification and correction of this via aggressive fluid therapy is often warranted unless abdominal haemorrhage or evidence of increased intracranial pressure are identified, in which case more judicious fluid therapy may be warranted. Complications specifically related to the respiratory system following the RTA can include pulmonary contusions, pneumothorax and diaphragmatic herniation, which should be dealt with promptly using stabilisation methods such as oxygen supplementation, analgesia and thoracic drainage. Once the patient is stabilised the clinician should progress onto a more thorough physical examination including contrast studies of the urinary system.
The lame cat: optimising orthopaedic examination and investigation
Authors: Perry Karen L
Published: September 2014

The lame cat without a history or signs of trauma can represent a diagnostic challenge. The history may not be as helpful for cats as for dogs, and both gait analysis and orthopaedic examination are difficult to perform in the cat. Gait assessment and orthopaedic examination must be tailored to the individual cat. An awareness of the normal parameters for feline patients and common orthopaedic conditions affecting them is important prior to undertaking this. Appropriate preparation, avoiding over-restraint and tactical use of sedation will increase the chances of localising the source of discomfort. Following localisation, further diagnostic procedures, including imaging, arthrocentesis, synovial and bone biopsy may be required to achieve a definitive diagnosis.
Disease summary: canine sarcoptic mange
Authors: Wright Ian
Published: September 2014

This article gives an overview of sarcoptic mange; dermatitis and pruritus caused by infestation with the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis will be summarised.
Perfecting The Decontamination Lead Role
Authors: Bridges Glenys
Published: September 2014

A range of leadership and management skills are needed to fulfil the decontamination lead role effectively. The decontamination lead should work as part of the management team alongside the Registered Provider and the Registered Manager. Essentially, the decontamination lead oversees compliance with practice polices and procedures, trains the team and audits outcomes
Dental Unit Water Line Management
Authors: Bacon Peter
Published: September 2014

Practices need to prevent and treat microbiological contamination of water in dental unit water line systems to minimise the risk of infection
The role of the dental nurse in 2020: a possible picture?
Authors: Marshall Kathryn
Published: September 2014

This article will explore the likely oral health requirements of the nation in the future, and the possible role that dental nurses may take with regard to delivery of such care
Reflective practice: a practical guide for personal development
Authors: Nash Maggie
Published: September 2014

Reflective practice enables healthcare practitioners to learn and shows that they are committed professionals. The method described here should assist dental nurses to use reflection to identify strengths and areas for improvement to support their development
First impressions – reviewing current research on education and training
Authors: Parker Marie
Published: September 2014

The second article in this series from the NEBDN focuses on the research that has been undertaken regarding education and training, the barriers that are preventing dental nurses from reaching their goals, and what is needed to encourage the workforce to stay in their roles
Genomic High-Resolution Profiling of Single CKpos/CD45neg Flow-Sorting Purified Circulating Tumor Cells from Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Neves Rui P L , Raba Katharina , Schmidt Oliver , Honisch Ellen , Meier-Stiegen Franziska , Behrens Bianca , Möhlendick Birte , Fehm Tanja , Neubauer Hans , Klein Christoph A , Polzer Bernhard , Sproll Christoph , Fischer Johannes C , Niederacher Dieter , Stoecklein Nikolas H
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are promising surrogate markers for systemic disease, and their molecular characterization might be relevant to guide more individualized cancer therapies. To enable fast and efficient purification of individual CTCs, we developed a work flow from CellSearchTM cartridges enabling high-resolution genomic profiling on the single-cell level.

METHODS

Single CTCs were sorted from 40 CellSearch samples from patients with metastatic breast cancer using a MoFlo XDP cell sorter. Genomes of sorted single cells were amplified using an adapter–linker PCR. Amplification products were analyzed by array-based comparative genomic hybridization, a gene-specific quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay for cyclin D1 (CCND1) locus amplification, and genomic sequencing to screen for mutations in exons 1, 9, and 20 of the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase, catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) gene and exons 5, 7, and 8 of the tumor protein p53 (TP53) gene.

RESULTS

One common flow-sorting protocol was appropriate for 90% of the analyzed CellSearch cartridges, and the detected CTC numbers correlated positively with those originally detected with the CellSearch system (R2 = 0.9257). Whole genome amplification was successful in 72.9% of the sorted single CTCs. Over 95% of the cells displayed chromosomal aberrations typical for metastatic breast cancers, and amplifications at the CCND1 locus were validated by qPCR. Aberrant CTCs from 2 patients harbored mutations in exon 20 of the PIK3CA gene.

CONCLUSIONS

This work flow enabled effective CTC isolation and provided insights into genomic alterations of CTCs in metastatic breast cancer. This approach might facilitate further molecular characterization of rare CTCs to increase understanding of their biology and as a basis for their molecular screening in the clinical setting.
Fine art pedagogy after modernism: A case study of two pioneering art schools
Authors: Houghton Nicholas
Published: September 2014

This article is about changes in fine art pedagogy that took place at two North American institutions: Nova Scotia College of Art and Design from 1967 and California Institute of the Arts from 1970. At these, a radical, new paradigm of art pedagogy came to be developed, which has had widespread ramifications. This placed an emphasis on criticality, information and interdisciplinary practice rather than self-expression, formalism and media-specific instruction. It began as an onslaught on modernism, commodification and traditional art practice and discourse. However, through bringing process and enquiry to the fore, this paradigm came to accommodate work in any medium, whether traditional or not, provided it could be explained and justified. Although some aspects of these institution’s pedagogy, such as their formal assessment regimes, would seem very unfamiliar today, in general the pedagogy they developed has come to dominate fine art courses throughout the world. By providing this historical account, it is intended that the present day context is brought into sharper focus.
Energetic investigation of the fatigue of wood
Authors: Sasaki Yasutoshi , Oya Ayaka , Yamasaki Mariko
Published: September 2014

There are gaps in our knowledge regarding temporal changes in wood stability and mechanical properties in the context of wood durability. Energetic analyses have been performed in this study based on experimental results on the bending fatigue of wood under multiple loading conditions. New findings regarding the fatigue limit and fatigue life (N
f) are presented. The strain energy (SE) obtained from stress-strain envelopes until wood reaches its N
f is a value specific to wood species and static strength regardless of the loading conditions. This value is about 50% higher than the SE in static tests. The relationship between mean energy loss (EL) and stress level (SL) to the point of fatigue failure is bilinear, and the mean EL is closely related to N
f. Moreover, the SL – when mean EL approaches a specific value (∼1.10 kJ m-3 per cycle) as N
f approaches infinity – is considered to be the fatigue limit; the latter is estimated to be about 20–30% of static strength.
Identifying corruption risks in the defense and security sector: Empirical evidence using the Government Defense Anti-Corruption Index
Authors: Cover Oliver , Mustafa Saad
Published: September 2014

This article contributes to the debate on conceptualizing corruption by suggesting that sector-specific typologies of corruption risks are useful heuristics that encourage understanding of corruption without attempting to define it in a way that is inherently contestable or inappropriately succinct. To develop this position, this article reflects on the difficulties in trying to define corruption in both general terms and within the context of the defense and security sector. It then details a corruption risk typology in use in the sector, explains how it was used to provide the theoretical backdrop for a global index, and then submits the typology’s five main risk areas to empirical testing using that same index’s results. The models that result show that this typology’s risk areas display sufficient internal coherence for its key risk areas to be of use not only to practitioners, but also to the sector analyst and academic attentive to conceptual concerns. [JEL codes: D74, H56]
A metacommunity perspective on source–sink dynamics and management: the Baltic Sea as a case study
Authors: Lindegren Martin , Andersen Ken H. , Casini Michele , Neuenfeldt Stefan
Published: September 2014

The degree to which metapopulation processes influence fish stock dynamics is a largely unresolved issue in marine science and management, especially for highly mobile species such as Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and herring (Clupea harengus). The Baltic Sea comprises a heterogeneous oceanographic environment that structures the spatial and temporal distribution of the dominant species cod, herring, and sprat (Sprattus sprattus). Despite local differences, the stocks are traditionally managed as homogeneous units. Here, we present a metacommunity‐perspective on source–sink dynamics of Baltic Sea fish stocks by using a spatially disaggregated statistical food web model. The model is fitted to area‐specific time series of multiple abiotic and biotic variables using state‐space methods. Our analysis reveals pronounced net fluxes between areas, indicative of source–sink dynamics, as well as area‐specific differences in species interactions (i.e., density dependence, competition, and predator–prey) and the degree of fishing and climate impact on survival and recruitment. Furthermore, model simulations show that decreasing exploitation pressure in the source area for cod (without reallocating fishing effort) produces an increase in neighboring sink habitats, but a decline of prey species in response to increased predation. Our approach provides valuable insight concerning metacommunity‐structuring of marine fish and may serve as an important tool for implementing sustainable management strategies under the ecosystem approach to marine and fisheries management.
Beyond seasonal climate: statistical estimation of phenological responses to weather
Authors: Diez Jeffrey M. , Ibáñez Inés , Silander John A. , Primack Richard , Higuchi Hiroyoshi , Kobori Hiromi , Sen Ananda , James Timothy Y.
Published: September 2014

Phenological events, such as the timing of flowering or insect emergence, are influenced by a complex combination of climatic and non‐climatic factors. Although temperature is generally considered most important, other weather events such as frosts and precipitation events can also influence many species' phenology. Non‐climatic variables such as photoperiod and site‐specific habitat characteristics can also have important effects on phenology. Forecasting phenological shifts due to climate change requires understanding and quantifying how these multiple factors combine to affect phenology. However, current approaches to analyzing phenological data have a limited ability for quantifying multiple drivers simultaneously. Here, we use a novel statistical approach to estimate the combined effects of multiple variables, including local weather events, on the phenology of several taxa (a tree, an insect, and a fungus). We found that thermal forcing had a significant positive effect on each species, frost events delayed the phenology of the tree and butterfly, and precipitation had a positive effect on fungal fruiting. Using data from sites across latitudinal gradients, we found that these effects are remarkably consistent across sites once latitude and other site effects are accounted for. This consistency suggests an underlying biological response to these variables that is not commonly estimated using data from field observations. This approach's flexibility will be useful for forecasting ongoing phenological responses to changes in climate variability in addition to seasonal trends.
Cost‐efficient fenced reserves for conservation: single large or two small?
Authors: Helmstedt Kate J. , Possingham Hugh P. , Brennan Karl E. C. , Rhodes Jonathan R. , Bode Michael
Published: September 2014

Fences that exclude alien invasive species are used to reduce predation pressure on reintroduced threatened wildlife. Planning these continuously managed systems of reserves raises an important extension of the Single Large or Several Small (SLOSS) reserve planning framework: the added complexity of ongoing management. We investigate the long‐term cost‐efficiency of a single large or two small predator exclusion fences in the arid Australian context of reintroducing bilbies Macrotis lagotis, and we highlight the broader significance of our results with sensitivity analysis. A single fence more frequently results in a much larger net cost than two smaller fences. We find that the cost‐efficiency of two fences is robust to strong demographic and environmental uncertainty, which can help managers to mitigate the risk of incurring high costs over the entire life of the project.
Supplemental feeding alters migration of a temperate ungulate
Authors: Jones Jennifer D. , Kauffman Matthew J. , Monteith Kevin L. , Scurlock Brandon M. , Albeke Shannon E. , Cross Paul C.
Published: September 2014

Conservation of migration requires information on behavior and environmental determinants. The spatial distribution of forage resources, which migration exploits, often are altered and may have subtle, unintended consequences. Supplemental feeding is a common management practice, particularly for ungulates in North America and Europe, and carryover effects on behavior of this anthropogenic manipulation of forage are expected in theory, but have received limited empirical evaluation, particularly regarding effects on migration. We used global positioning system (GPS) data to evaluate the influence of winter feeding on migration behavior of 219 adult female elk (Cervus elaphus) from 18 fed ranges and 4 unfed ranges in western Wyoming. Principal component analysis revealed that the migratory behavior of fed and unfed elk differed in distance migrated, and the timing of arrival to, duration on, and departure from summer range. Fed elk migrated 19.2 km less, spent 11 more days on stopover sites, arrived to summer range 5 days later, resided on summer range 26 fewer days, and departed in the autumn 10 days earlier than unfed elk. Time‐to‐event models indicated that differences in migratory behavior between fed and unfed elk were caused by altered sensitivity to the environmental drivers of migration. In spring, unfed elk migrated following plant green‐up closely, whereas fed elk departed the feedground but lingered on transitional range, thereby delaying their arrival to summer range. In autumn, fed elk were more responsive to low temperatures and precipitation events, causing earlier departure from summer range than unfed elk. Overall, supplemental feeding disconnected migration by fed elk from spring green‐up and decreased time spent on summer range, thereby reducing access to quality forage. Our findings suggest that ungulate migration can be substantially altered by changes to the spatial distribution of resources, including those of anthropogenic origin, and that management practices applied in one season may have unintended behavioral consequences in subsequent seasons.
The Shushufindi Adventure
Authors: Marin Gustavo , Paladines Agustin , Suter Andreas , Corbett Chip , Ponce Gustavo , Vela Ivan
Published: September 2014

The Shushufindi field represents 10% of the total production of Ecuador. Discovered in 1972 with an estimated 3.7 billion bbls OOIP, it achieved a maximum production rate of 125,000 bopd in 1986. Since then, the field has been in decline reaching 43,000 bopd in January 2012 with a recovery factor of 30%. Consorcio Shushufindi was formed to address this decline, boosting production to over 65,000 bopd by Aug 2013. This dramatic improvement has been achieved through a gain share agreement which has seen 45 new wells and 35 workovers during the first 18 months of the contract. Prior to the contract signing, a “Shock Team” created the preliminary subsurface modeling estimations and generated the activity plan which included de-bottlenecking of the surface facilities to optimize production.

In order to maintain accelerated production and a rapid drilling program, the Asset Integrated Management center (AIM), a specialized real-time monitoring system, was created. This center is located in Quito, Ecuador, and remotely monitors field operations. Most of the wells in the field have been converted to artificial lift using electric submersible pumps (ESPs). Each of these ESPs sends data via a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system to the AIM so that pump parameters are continuously optimized and failures are quickly addressed, optimizing production. Additionally, each new well that is drilled has a team in the AIM to monitor the progress of the well and all acquired data. New wells are compared to the knowledge base established by previous wells and the drilling parameters are optimized for the new well. Consequently, the required time for drilling and completion of new wells has progressively improved. This paper presents the techniques implemented by the team, the results to date, and the prognosis for the future of the field.
Validation of a new image analysis procedure for quantifying filamentous bacteria in activated sludge
Authors: Liwarska-Bizukojc Ewa , Bizukojc Marcin , Andrzejczak Olga
Published: September 2014

Quantification of filamentous bacteria in activated sludge systems can be made by manual counting under a microscope or by the application of various automated image analysis procedures. The latter has been significantly developed in the last two decades. In this work a new method based upon automated image analysis techniques was elaborated and presented. It consisted of three stages: (a) Neisser staining, (b) grabbing of microscopic images, and (c) digital image processing and analysis. This automated image analysis procedure possessed the features of novelty. It simultaneously delivered data about aggregates and filaments in an individual calculation routine, which is seldom met in the procedures described in the literature so far. What is more important, the macroprogram performing image processing and calculation of morphological parameters was written in the same software which was used for grabbing of images. Previously published procedures required using two different types of software, one for image grabbing and another one for image processing and analysis. Application of this new procedure for the quantification of filamentous bacteria in the full-scale as well as laboratory activated sludge systems proved that it was simple, fast and delivered reliable results.
Feasibility of conventional and single-stage anaerobic ammonium oxidation processes for treating chlortetracycline wastewater
Authors: Liu Miaomiao , Yao Hong , Liu Hao , Xu Jing , Zuo Lushen
Published: September 2014

Conventional and single-stage anaerobic ammonium oxidation (ANAMMOX) was carried out in bench-scale reactors to treat chlortetracycline (CTC) wastewater. The total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency and rate for conventional ANAMMOX was 66.6 ± 5.9% and 2.7 ± 0.2 kg N/(m3·d), respectively, which was 58.6 ± 3.8% and 1.2 ± 0.1 kg N/(m3·d) for single-stage ANAMMOX. Single-stage ANAMMOX showed higher tolerance to CTC than conventional ANAMMOX. The nitrogen removal of conventional and single-stage ANAMMOX began to deteriorate when CTC was added, to 40 and 80 mg/L, respectively, with the former totally inhibited at 120 mg/L CTC and the latter at 140 mg/L CTC. TN removal rates were recovered to 1.2 and 0.7 kg N/(m3·d), respectively, when CTC concentration was reduced to 20 mg/L for 8 days. This study implied that ANAMMOX could be efficiently used to treat pharmaceutical wastewater, with single-stage implementation being more stable under antibiotic pressure.
Image analysis of sludge aggregates obtained at preliminary treatment of sewage
Authors: Smoczyński L. , Ratnaweera H. , Kosobucka M. , Kvaal K. , Smoczyński M.
Published: September 2014

The results of wastewater treatment by Al and Fe salts and by electrocoagulation with aluminum electrodes are discussed and interpreted. Those processes used alone or combined with biological treatment, were analyzed for 50 and 90% removal of phosphates. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the resulting sludge from three coagulation processes defined the perimeter P and area A of 129–142 differently sized objects in each contrast-enhanced image. Plots of lg A against lg P revealed that the analyzed sludge samples were made of self-similar aggregates–flocs with fractal characteristics. The slope of ‘log plots’ was used to determine surface fractal dimension Da, which was extrapolated to volumetric fractal dimension Dv. Dv was applied in a quantitative description of sludge aggregates–flocs. Aggregates–flocs of sludge obtained by Al ions (pre-polymerized Al and electrocoagulation) were characterized by higher values of Dv in comparison with sludge obtained by iron salts. The structure of {Al(OH)3} and {Fe(OH)3} aggregate–flocs was graphically simulated to determine the effect of size distribution and Dv on sweep flocculation and sludge separation and dehydration. Phosphate removal efficiency of 50% occurred at low ratios of Al:P and Fe:P. Adsorption-charge neutralization was suggested during coagulation with pre-polymerized coagulants, and sweep flow mechanism during electrocoagulation.
Combined effect of constant high voltage electrostatic field and variable frequency pulsed electromagnetic field on the morphology of calcium carbonate scale in circulating cooling water systems
Authors: Zhao Ju-Dong , Liu Zhi-An , Zhao Er-Jun
Published: September 2014

Research on scale inhibition is of importance to improve the heat transfer efficiency of heat exchangers. The combined effect of high voltage electrostatic and variable frequency pulsed electromagnetic fields on calcium carbonate precipitation was investigated, both theoretically and experimentally. Using energy dispersive spectrum analysis, the predominant phase was found to be CaCO3. The formed crystal phases mainly consist of calcite and aragonite, which is, in part, verified by theory. The results indicate that the setting of water flow velocity, and high voltage electrostatic and variable frequency pulsed electromagnetic fields is very important. Favorable values of these parameters can have a significant anti-scaling effect, with 68.95% of anti-scaling ratio for scale sample 13, while unfavorable values do not affect scale inhibition, but rather promoted fouling, such as scale sample 6. By using scanning electron microscopy analysis, when the anti-scaling ratio is positive, the particle size of scale was found to become smaller than that of untreated sample and the morphology became loose. The X-ray diffraction results verify that the good combined effect favors the appearance and growth of aragonite and restrains its transition to calcite. The mechanism for scale reduction is discussed.