bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid Phase Electron-Beam-Induced Deposition on Bulk Substrates Using Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Bresin Matthew , Botman Aurelien , Randolph Steven J , Straw Marcus , Hastings Jeffrey Todd
Published: March 2014

The introduction of gases, such as water vapor, into an environmental scanning electron microscope is common practice to assist in the imaging of insulating or biological materials. However, this capability may also be exploited to introduce, or form, liquid phase precursors for electron-beam-induced deposition. In this work, the authors report the deposition of silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) structures using two different cell-less in situ deposition methods—the first involving the in situ hydration of solid precursors and the second involving the insertion of liquid droplets using a capillary style liquid injection system. Critically, the inclusion of surfactants is shown to drastically improve pattern replication without diminishing the purity of the metal deposits. Surfactants are estimated to reduce the droplet contact angle to below ~10°.
Challenges in modelling the random structure correctly in growth mixture models and the impact this has on model mixtures
Authors: Gilthorpe M. S. , Dahly D. L. , Tu Y.-K. , Kubzansky L. D. , Goodman E.
Published: March 2014

Lifecourse trajectories of clinical or anthropological attributes are useful for identifying how our early-life experiences influence later-life morbidity and mortality. Researchers often use growth mixture models (GMMs) to estimate such phenomena. It is common to place constrains on the random part of the GMM to improve parsimony or to aid convergence, but this can lead to an autoregressive structure that distorts the nature of the mixtures and subsequent model interpretation. This is especially true if changes in the outcome within individuals are gradual compared with the magnitude of differences between individuals. This is not widely appreciated, nor is its impact well understood. Using repeat measures of body mass index (BMI) for 1528 US adolescents, we estimated GMMs that required variance–covariance constraints to attain convergence. We contrasted constrained models with and without an autocorrelation structure to assess the impact this had on the ideal number of latent classes, their size and composition. We also contrasted model options using simulations. When the GMM variance–covariance structure was constrained, a within-class autocorrelation structure emerged. When not modelled explicitly, this led to poorer model fit and models that differed substantially in the ideal number of latent classes, as well as class size and composition. Failure to carefully consider the random structure of data within a GMM framework may lead to erroneous model inferences, especially for outcomes with greater within-person than between-person homogeneity, such as BMI. It is crucial to reflect on the underlying data generation processes when building such models.
Cyclization reactions of bis(allenes) for the synthesis of polycarbo(hetero)cycles
Authors: Alcaide Benito , Almendros Pedro , Aragoncillo Cristina
Published: March 2014

This review presents the reactivity of a variety of substituted bis(allenes) under different reaction conditions, showing the high number of complex structures that can be obtained.
Rhodium catalyzed hydroformylation of nerolidol
Authors: de Freitas Marina C. , de Oliveira Kelley C. B. , de Camargo Faria Amanda , dos Santos Eduardo N. , Gusevskaya Elena V.
Published: March 2014

The rhodium-catalyzed hydroformylation of nerolidol, a biorenewable substrate with strong therapeutic potential available from various essential oils, was studied in toluene and ethanol solutions in the presence of PPh3or P(O-o-tBuPh)3ligands.
The degradation of the lignin in Phyllostachys heterocycla cv. pubescens in an ethanol solvothermal system
Authors: Hu Libin , Luo Yiping , Cai Bin , Li Jianmei , Tong Dongmei , Hu Changwei
Published: March 2014

The cracking of phenylpropyl side-chain C–C bonds in lignin followed the order Cα–Cβ, C1–Cα, Cβ–Cγ.
Microfluidic bead-based diodes with targeted circular microchannels for low Reynolds number applications
Authors: Sochol Ryan D. , Lu Albert , Lei Jonathan , Iwai Kosuke , Lee Luke P. , Lin Liwei
Published: March 2014

A microfluidic bead-based diode that uses a targeted circular-shaped microchannel for docking a suspended microbead is presented for rectifying fluid flow under low Reynolds number conditions.
Poly(3-aminophenylboronic acid)-functionalized carbon nanotubes-based chemiresistive sensors for detection of sugars
Authors: Badhulika Sushmee , Tlili Chaker , Mulchandani Ashok
Published: March 2014

A poly(aniline boronic acid) (PABA)-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) non-enzymatic sensor was developed for the detection of saccharides.
A versatile-deployable bacterial detection system for food and environmental safety based on LabTube-automated DNA purification, LabReader-integrated amplification, readout and analysis
Authors: Hoehl Melanie M. , Bocholt Eva Schulte , Kloke Arne , Paust Nils , Stetten Felix von , Zengerle Roland , Steigert Juergen , Slocum Alexander H.
Published: March 2014

The LabSystem for integrated, automated DNA purification, amplification and detection consists of a disposable, centrifugally driven DNA purification platform (LabTube) and a low-cost UV/vis-reader (LabReader).
Rational selection of substrates to improve color intensity and uniformity on microfluidic paper-based analytical devices
Authors: Evans Elizabeth , Gabriel Ellen Flávia Moreira , Coltro Wendell Karlos Tomazelli , Garcia Carlos D.
Published: March 2014

A systematic investigation was conducted to study the effect of paper type on the analytical performance of a series of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) fabricated using a CO2 laser engraver.
A highly sensitive electrochemical genosensor based on Co-porphyrin-labelled DNA
Authors: Grabowska Iwona , Singleton Daniel G. , Stachyra Anna , Góra-Sochacka Anna , Sirko Agnieszka , Zagórski-Ostoja Włodzimierz , Radecka Hanna , Stulz Eugen , Radecki Jerzy
Published: March 2014

Cobalt-porphyrin-modified DNA was used to design an electrochemical genosensor which is able to detect a minimum of 1000 DNA molecules.
An inelastic neutron scattering study of dietary phenolic acids
Authors: Marques M. Paula M. , Batista de Carvalho Luís A. E. , Valero Rosendo , Machado Nelson F. L. , Parker Stewart F.
Published: March 2014

The conformational preferences of dietary phenols were determined by INS spectroscopy and DFT calculations. Access to the low energy spectral region enabled the identification of vibrational modes associated with H-type interactions, which are the determinants of the antioxidant capacity.
Multipurpose composite MnCeOxcatalysts for environmental applications
Authors: Arena Francesco
Published: March 2014

A variety of environmental applications documents the potential of composite MnCeOxmaterials as low-cost, multipurpose alternatives to noble-metal catalysts.
Catalytic dehydration of fructose to HMF over sulfonic acid functionalized periodic mesoporous organosilicas: role of the acid density
Authors: Bispo Cláudia , De Oliveira Vigier Karine , Sardo Mariana , Bion Nicolas , Mafra Luís , Ferreira Paula , Jérôme François
Published: March 2014

Here, we report that the dispersion and environment of acid sites anchored on a periodic mesoporous organosilica play a crucial role in its catalytic activity in water.
Dinuclear zinc(ii) complexes containing (benzimidazol-2-yl)benzene that overcome drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells through induction of mitochondria fragmentation
Authors: Xie Qiang , Liu Shenggui , Li Xiaoling , Wu Qiong , Luo Zuandi , Fu Xiaoyan , Cao Wenqiang , Lan Guoqiang , Li Dan , Zheng Wenjie , Chen Tianfeng
Published: March 2014

Dinuclear zinc complexes could overcome drug resistance in drug resistance hepatocellular carcinoma cells through induction of mitochondria-mediated apoptosis.
Insights into the coordination mode of quercetin with the Al(iii) ion from a combined experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Furia Emilia , Marino Tiziana , Russo Nino
Published: March 2014

Taking into account the importance of aluminium it is interesting to explore the ability of quercetin to coordinate it.
Mononuclear anionic AO2X3compounds with non-VSEPR structure
Authors: García-Monforte M. Angeles , Baya Miguel , Betoré M. Pilar , Martín Antonio , Menjón Babil
Published: March 2014

Mononuclear (MoO2X3)−compounds exhibit edge-capped tetrahedral structures, as has been theoretically calculated for X = H, Cl and CN and experimentally found for X = C6F5.
Phosphodiesters serve as potentially tunable aglycones for fluoro sugar inactivators of retaining β-glycosidases
Authors: Rempel B. P. , Withers S. G.
Published: March 2014

2-Deoxy-2-fluoroglycosides were synthesised and tested as covalent glycosidase inactivators. β-d-Gluco-, -manno- and -galacto-configured benzyl-benzylphosphonate derivatives efficiently inactivate β-gluco-, β-manno- and β-galactosidases, while α-gluco- and α-manno-configured phosphate and phosphonate derivatives instead served as slow substrates for their cognate α-glycosidases.
Mapping electrogenerated chemiluminescence reactivity in space: mechanistic insight into model systems used in immunoassays
Authors: Sentic Milica , Milutinovic Milena , Kanoufi Frédéric , Manojlovic Dragan , Arbault Stéphane , Sojic Neso
Published: March 2014

Mapping the reactivity of a redox-sensitive luminescent microobject positioned in fluxes of reactive species allows analyzing complex mechanistic processes such as the electrogenerated chemiluminescence of model systems used in immunoassays.
Algorithm and FPGA implementation of interpolation‐based soft output MMSE MIMO detector for 3GPP LTE
Authors: Salari Amin , Fakhraie Sied Mehdi , Abbasfar Aliazam
Published: March 2014

The number of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) sub‐carriers in modern wireless communication systems such as Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) long term evolution (LTE) can be as high as 2048. Channel matrix of data sub‐carriers in conventional multiple‐input–multiple‐output (MIMO) receivers is derived by interpolating channel matrix of pilot sub‐carriers and MIMO detection is performed on each interpolated channel matrix. Symbol detection on sub‐carrier by sub‐carrier basis demands a very high computational power. This study presents the first very‐large scale integration implementation of a novel 4 × 4 interpolation‐based soft output minimum‐mean‐squared error (MMSE) MIMO detector which combines channel estimation and MIMO detection. The detector computes MMSE matrix on pilot sub‐carriers using proposed division‐free matrix inversion algorithm and obtains MMSE matrix of data sub‐carriers by interpolation, reducing computational complexity by more than 66%. The throughput of the implemented detector on Virtex‐7 field programmable gate array (FPGA) exceeds 1 Gbps with 2.1 µs latency.
Chemical reaction optimisation for different economic dispatch problems
Authors: Bhattacharjee Kuntal , Bhattacharya Aniruddha , Halder nee Dey Sunita
Published: March 2014

This study presents a real coded chemical reaction algorithm to solve economic load dispatch (ELD) problems involving different constraints such as power balance, ramp rate limits and prohibited operating zone constraints. Effects of valve‐point loading and multi‐fuel options of large‐scale thermal plants are also studied. System transmission loss has also been considered in a few cases. Chemical reaction optimisation mimics the interactions of molecules in a chemical reaction to reach from a higher energy unstable state to a low energy stable state. A real coded version, known as real‐coded chemical reaction optimisation is implemented here to solve ELD problems. The simulation results establish that the proposed approach outperforms several other existing optimisation techniques in terms of quality of solution obtained and computational efficiency. The results also prove the robustness of the proposed methodology to solve ELD problems.
Design and implementation of a wavelet analysis‐based shunt fault detection and identification module for transmission lines application
Authors: Usama Yasir , Lu Xiaomin , Imam Hasib , Sen Chitradeep , Kar Narayan C.
Published: March 2014

The power utility companies have been trying to identify and locate three‐phase transmission line faults in the shortest possible time in order to prevent economic losses. In the last few decades, technology used for power system protection has evolved from electromechanical devices to solid state and processor‐based intelligent devices. This study presents the design and implementation of a wavelet analysis‐based fault detection and identification module that contemplates the analysis of high frequency transients produced during faults. The design was implemented on a cost effective low‐end embedded system. The proposed logic employs a multi‐resolution wavelet analysis of high frequency details in the range of 5–10 kHz. The amount of high frequency components present in the transformed current signals, obtained after processing, identifies the fault. The ground and line‐to‐line faults were classified on the basis of the adaptive thresholds obtained from system behaviour. The proposed approach, after the completion of simulations, was implemented on a digital signal controller. The developed fault detection and identification prototype was successful in accurately identifying the power system faults, thus validating the feasibility of the proposed methodology.
Critical Survey of Data on the Spectroscopy and Kinetics of Ozone in the Mesosphere and Thermosphere
Authors: Steinfeld Jeffrey I. , Adler-Golden Steven M. , Gallagher Jean W.
Published: March 2014

Spectroscopic data and reaction rate coefficients pertinent to ozone in the mesosphere and thermosphere (altitude >50 km) are critically surveyed. These data should be of use in modeling atmospheric infrared luminescence, measuring atmospheric ozone concentrations by remote sensing, and designing and interpreting laboratory measurements. There is a clear need for additional data on metastable ozone electronic states, additional atmospheric ozone formation channels, collision processes involving electrons and ions, and vibrational state dependence of reaction rate coefficients.
Variation of spermatogenic and Sertoli cell number detected by fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in Iberian red deer during and out of the breeding season
Authors: Pintus Eliana , Ros-Santaella José Luis , Garde José Julián
Published: March 2014

The aim of the present study was to evaluate spermatogenesis in Iberian red deer, a short-day seasonal breeder, using the fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) technique. Reports on spermatogenesis in deer are limited and here, for the first time, FNAC has been used to evaluate changes in such physiological process during and out of the breeding season. Testes were collected from 51 stags from November 2010 to February 2011. The Sertoli index and spermatic index were significantly higher during the breeding season than out of the breeding season (P = 0.0477 and P = 0.0125, respectively). A similar pattern was described by histological analysis, in which both Sertoli cell number per tubular cross-section and Johnsen score decreased significantly from the breeding season to the non-breeding season (P = 0.0131 and P = 0.0010, respectively). Data provided by FNAC were correlated with histology: the Sertoli index was positively correlated with Sertoli cell number per tubular cross-section (P = 0.0015), whereas the spermatic index was correlated with the Johnsen score (P = 0.0497). The results of the present study indicate that FNAC is a reliable technique to evaluate spermatogenesis in Iberian red deer and suggest that Sertoli cell number is not stable in these species, reaching highest values during the breeding season.
CIP2A oncoprotein controls cell growth and autophagy through mTORC1 activation
Authors: Puustinen Pietri , Rytter Anna , Mortensen Monika , Kohonen Pekka , Moreira José M. , Jäättelä Marja
Published: March 2014

mTORC1 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1) integrates information regarding availability of nutrients and energy to coordinate protein synthesis and autophagy. Using ribonucleic acid interference screens for autophagy-regulating phosphatases in human breast cancer cells, we identify CIP2A (cancerous inhibitor of PP2A [protein phosphatase 2A]) as a key modulator of mTORC1 and autophagy. CIP2A associates with mTORC1 and acts as an allosteric inhibitor of mTORC1-associated PP2A, thereby enhancing mTORC1-dependent growth signaling and inhibiting autophagy. This regulatory circuit is reversed by ubiquitination and p62/SQSTM1-dependent autophagic degradation of CIP2A and subsequent inhibition of mTORC1 activity. Consistent with CIP2A’s reported ability to protect c-Myc against proteasome-mediated degradation, autophagic degradation of CIP2A upon mTORC1 inhibition leads to destabilization of c-Myc. These data characterize CIP2A as a distinct regulator of mTORC1 and reveals mTORC1-dependent control of CIP2A degradation as a mechanism that links mTORC1 activity with c-Myc stability to coordinate cellular metabolism, growth, and proliferation.
Twist1-induced dissemination preserves epithelial identity and requires E-cadherin
Authors: Shamir Eliah R. , Pappalardo Elisa , Jorgens Danielle M. , Coutinho Kester , Tsai Wen-Ting , Aziz Khaled , Auer Manfred , Tran Phuoc T. , Bader Joel S. , Ewald Andrew J.
Published: March 2014

Dissemination of epithelial cells is a critical step in metastatic spread. Molecular models of dissemination focus on loss of E-cadherin or repression of cell adhesion through an epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). We sought to define the minimum molecular events necessary to induce dissemination of cells out of primary murine mammary epithelium. Deletion of E-cadherin disrupted epithelial architecture and morphogenesis but only rarely resulted in dissemination. In contrast, expression of the EMT transcription factor Twist1 induced rapid dissemination of cytokeratin-positive epithelial cells. Twist1 induced dramatic transcriptional changes in extracellular compartment and cell–matrix adhesion genes but not in cell–cell adhesion genes. Surprisingly, we observed disseminating cells with membrane-localized E-cadherin and β-catenin, and E-cadherin knockdown strongly inhibited Twist1-induced single cell dissemination. Dissemination can therefore occur with retention of epithelial cell identity. The spread of cancer cells during metastasis could similarly involve activation of an epithelial motility program without requiring a transition from epithelial to mesenchymal character.
Mechanisms of HsSAS-6 assembly promoting centriole formation in human cells
Authors: Keller Debora , Orpinell Meritxell , Olivier Nicolas , Wachsmuth Malte , Mahen Robert , Wyss Romain , Hachet Virginie , Ellenberg Jan , Manley Suliana , Gönczy Pierre
Published: March 2014

SAS-6 proteins are thought to impart the ninefold symmetry of centrioles, but the mechanisms by which their assembly occurs within cells remain elusive. In this paper, we provide evidence that the N-terminal, coiled-coil, and C-terminal domains of HsSAS-6 are each required for procentriole formation in human cells. Moreover, the coiled coil is necessary and sufficient to mediate HsSAS-6 centrosomal targeting. High-resolution imaging reveals that GFP-tagged HsSAS-6 variants localize in a torus around the base of the parental centriole before S phase, perhaps indicative of an initial loading platform. Moreover, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching analysis demonstrates that HsSAS-6 is immobilized progressively at centrosomes during cell cycle progression. Using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy and three-dimensional stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy, we uncover that HsSAS-6 is present in the cytoplasm primarily as a homodimer and that its oligomerization into a ninefold symmetrical ring occurs at centrioles. Together, our findings lead us to propose a mechanism whereby HsSAS-6 homodimers are targeted to centrosomes where the local environment and high concentration of HsSAS-6 promote oligomerization, thus initiating procentriole formation.
Biogenesis of the multifunctional lipid droplet: Lipids, proteins, and sites
Authors: Pol Albert , Gross Steven P. , Parton Robert G.
Published: March 2014

Lipid droplets (LDs) are ubiquitous dynamic organelles that store and supply lipids in all eukaryotic and some prokaryotic cells for energy metabolism, membrane synthesis, and production of essential lipid-derived molecules. Interest in the organelle’s cell biology has exponentially increased over the last decade due to the link between LDs and prevalent human diseases and the discovery of new and unexpected functions of LDs. As a result, there has been significant recent progress toward understanding where and how LDs are formed, and the specific lipid pathways that coordinate LD biogenesis.
Protein tagging reveals new insights into signaling in flagella
Authors: Ishikawa Takashi
Published: March 2014

In this issue, Oda et al. (2014. J. Cell Biol. http://dx.doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201312014) use mutant analysis, protein tagging, and cryoelectron tomography to determine the detailed location of components in flagellar radial spokes—a complex of proteins that connect the peripheral microtubule doublets to the central pair. Remarkably, this approach revealed an interaction between radial spokes and the central pair based on geometry rather than a specific signaling mechanism, highlighting the importance of studying a system in three dimensions.
On fields with Property (B)
Authors: Amoroso Francesco , David Sinnou , Zannier Umberto
Published: March 2014

Let

K
K

be a number field and let

L

/

K

L/K

be an infinite Galois extension with Galois group

G
G

. Let us assume that

G

/

Z
(
G
)

G/Z(G)

has finite exponent. We show that

L
L

has the Property (B) of Bombieri and Zannier: the absolute and logarithmic Weil height on

L
∗

L^*

is bounded from below outside the set of roots of unity by an absolute constant. We also discuss some features of Property (B): stability by algebraic extensions and relations with field arithmetic. As a side result, we prove that the Galois group over

Q

\mathbb {Q}

of the compositum of all totally real fields is torsion free.
Chemokine (C-C motif) Receptor 5 Is an Important Pathological Regulator in the Development and Maintenance of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Matsushita Katsuyuki , Tozaki-Saitoh Hidetoshi , Kojima Chinami , Masuda Takahiro , Tsuda Makoto , Inoue Kazuhide , Hoka Sumio
Published: March 2014

Background:

The chemokine family has been revealed to be involved in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain. In this study, the authors investigated the role of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3 and its receptors chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 1 and chemokine (C-C motif) receptor (CCR) 5 in neuropathic pain.

Methods:

A spinal nerve injury model was established in adult male Wistar rats. The von Frey test and hot plate test were performed to evaluate neuropathic pain behavior, and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry were performed to understand the molecular mechanisms.

Results:

The expression levels of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3 and CCR5 messenger RNA in the spinal cord were up-regulated after nerve injury, which was possibly due to CD11b-positive microglia. Single intrathecal administration of recombinant chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3 produced biphasic tactile allodynia; each phase of pain behavior was induced by different receptors. Intrathecal injection of CCR5 antagonist suppressed the development of tactile allodynia (12.81 ± 1.33 g vs. 3.52 ± 0.41 g [mean ± SEM, drug vs. control in paw-withdrawal threshold]; P < 0.05, n = 6 each) and could reverse established tactile allodynia (10.87 ± 0.91 g vs. 3.43 ± 0.28 g; P < 0.05, n = 8 and 7). Furthermore, Oral administration of CCR5 antagonist could reverse established tactile allodynia (8.20 ± 1.27 g vs. 3.18 ± 0.46 g; P < 0.05, n = 4 each).

Conclusions:

Pharmacological blockade of CCR5 was effective in the treatment of the development and maintenance phases of neuropathic pain. Thus, CCR5 antagonists may be potential new drugs for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
Comparison of New Modeling Methods for Postnatal Weight in ELBW Infants Using Prenatal and Postnatal Data
Authors: Porcelli Peter J. , Rosenbloom S. Trent
Published: March 2014

Objectives:

Postnatal infant weight curves are used to assess fluid management and evaluate postnatal nutrition and growth. Traditionally, postnatal weight curves are based on birth weight and do not incorporate postnatal clinical information. The aim of the present study was to compare the accuracy of birth weight–based weight curves with weight curves created from individual patient records, including electronic records, using 2 predictive modeling methods, linear regression (LR) and an artificial neural network (NN), which apply mathematical relations between predictor and outcome variables.

Methods:

Perinatal demographic and postnatal nutrition data were collected for extremely‐low‐birth‐weight (ELBW; birth weight <1000 g) infants. Static weight curves were generated using published algorithms. The postnatal predictive models were created using the demographic and nutrition dataset.

Results:

Birth weight (861 ± 83 g, mean ± 1 standard deviation [SD]), gestational age (26.2 ± 1.4 weeks), and the first month of nutrition data were collected from individual health records for 92 ELBW infants. The absolute residual (|measured − predicted|) for weight was 84.8 ± 74.4 g for the static weight curves, 60.9 ± 49.1 g for the LR model, and 12.9 ± 9.2 g for the NN model, analysis of variance: both LR and NN P < 0.01 versus static curve. NPO (nothing by mouth) infants had greater weight curve discrepancies.

Conclusions:

Compared with birth weight–based and logistic regression–generated weight curves, NN‐generated weight curves more closely approximated ELBW infant weight curves, and, using the present electronic health record systems, may produce weight curves better reflective of the patient's status.
Smad3‐Deficient Mice Have Reduced Esophageal Fibrosis and Angiogenesis in a Model of Egg‐Induced Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors: Cho Jae Youn , Doshi Ashmi , Rosenthal Peter , Beppu Andrew , Miller Marina , Aceves Seema , Broide David
Published: March 2014

Objectives:

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a food‐triggered disease associated with esophageal fibrosis and stricture formation in a subset of patients. In the present study we used a murine model of egg (ovalbumin [OVA])–induced EoE to determine whether inhibiting transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) signaling through the Smad3 pathway would inhibit features of esophageal remodeling including fibrosis, angiogenesis, and basal zone hyperplasia.

Methods:

Wild‐type (WT) and Smad3‐deficient (KO [knockout]) mice were sensitized intraperitoneally and then challenged chronically with intraesophageal OVA for 1 month. Levels of esophageal eosinophils, esophageal TGF‐β1+ and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)+ cells, and features of esophageal remodeling (fibrosis, angiogenesis, basal zone hyperplasia) were quantitated by immunohistochemistry and image analysis.

Results:

OVA challenge induced a similar increase in the levels of esophageal major basic protein (MBP)+ eosinophils and esophageal TGF‐β1+ cells in WT and Smad3 KO mice. Smad3 KO mice challenged with OVA had significantly less esophageal fibrosis and esophageal angiogenesis compared with OVA‐challenged WT mice. The reduced esophageal angiogenesis in Smad3 KO mice was associated with reduced numbers of VEGF+ cells in the esophagus. There was a trend toward OVA‐challenged Smad3 KO to have reduced basal zone hyperplasia, but this was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

In a mouse model of egg‐induced EoE, Smad3‐deficient mice have significantly less esophageal remodeling, especially fibrosis and angiogenesis that is associated with reduced expression of VEGF. Targeting the TGF‐β1/Smad3 pathway may be a novel strategy to reduce esophageal fibrosis and its associated complications such as esophageal strictures in EoE.
Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria in Human Breast Milk
Authors: Soto Ana , Martín Virginia , Jiménez Esther , Mader Isabelle , Rodríguez Juan M. , Fernández Leonides
Published: March 2014

Objective:

The objective of this work was to study the lactobacilli and bifidobacteria population in human milk of healthy women, and to investigate the influence that several factors (including antibioteraphy during pregnancy and lactation, country and date of birth, delivery mode, or infant age) may exert on such population.

Methods:

A total of 160 women living in Germany or Austria provided the breast milk samples. Initially, 66 samples were randomly selected and cultured on MRS‐Cys agar plates. Then, the presence of DNA from the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and from most of the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species that were isolated, was assessed by qualitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using genus‐ and species‐specific primers.

Results:

Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria could be isolated from the milk of 27 (40.91%) and 7 (10.61%), respectively, of the 66 cultured samples. On the contrary, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium sequences were detected by PCR in 108 (67.50%) and 41 (25.62%), respectively, of the 160 samples analyzed. The Lactobacillus species most frequently isolated and detected was L salivarius (35.00%), followed by L fermentum (25.00%) and L gasseri (21.88%), whereas B breve (13.75%) was the bifidobacterial species most commonly recovered and whose DNA was most regularly found. The number of lactobacilli‐ or bifidobacteria‐positive samples was significantly lower in women who had received antibiotherapy during pregnancy or lactation.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that either the presence of lactobacilli and/or bifidobacteria or their DNA may constitute good markers of a healthy human milk microbiota that has not been altered by the use of antibiotics.
Development of a Self‐Efficacy Scale for Adolescents and Young Adults With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Izaguirre Marisa R. , Keefer Laurie
Published: March 2014

Background:

Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) self‐management fits well within a social‐cognitive framework. At the heart of social‐cognitive theory is self‐efficacy, a set of beliefs about one's ability to perform certain tasks. Self‐efficacy is a strong predictor of health outcomes in chronic diseases and could serve as an intermediary outcome measure of self‐management for pediatric IBD. The aim of this preliminary study was to develop items for the design of a self‐efficacy scale specifically for adolescents and young adults with IBD.

Methods:

Survey development is an iterative process. As defined by the US Food and Drug Administration guidelines for developing a patient‐reported outcome measurement, the first step of this process is to obtain patient input. Using qualitative research methods, adolescents and young adults were recruited from an outpatient pediatric gastroenterology clinic to participate in a semistructured interview. Transcriptions of the recorded interviews were reviewed for themes related to self‐efficacy around disease management. A consensus panel of gastroenterologists and health psychologists reviewed the initially constructed items. Those specific items were then reviewed and adjusted by a panel of participants for content and understandability using cognitive interview methods. The resulting 13‐item scale is presented here.

Results:

Nineteen patients and 5 parents participated in the study. The study sample was 42% girls, 79% whites, 74% had Crohn disease, and 79% had not required surgery. Median age was 15 years (range 10–22 years). Theme analysis and expert review yielded 13 items across 4 theoretical domains: managing medical care, managing daily life with IBD, managing emotions, and managing the future with IBD.

Conclusions:

A 13‐item disease‐specific scale has been developed based on patient input to assess self‐efficacy around self‐management in adolescents with IBD. Efforts to validate this newly designed scale are presently under way.
Benefits of Attending a Summer Camp for Children With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Salazar Guadalupe , Heyman Melvin B.
Published: March 2014

Objectives:

The aim of the present study was to investigate knowledge of pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and perceptions of Camp Gut Busters, an IBD summer camp.

Methods:

The present ethnographic study uses traditional anthropological methods to investigate participants' knowledge and perceptions of Camp Gut Busters. Data were gathered using in‐depth qualitative interviews, participant observation during 4 Camp Gut Busters summer sessions, and attendance records for the summer camp. Participants either attended Camp Gut Busters (campers) or did not attend (noncampers). Campers' knowledge and perceptions were based on their actual experience at Camp Gut Busters, whereas those of noncampers were based on their expectations of camp.

Results:

Participant responses reference their illness experience with IBD, their struggles of learning to live with a chronic condition, and the benefits of attending a disease‐specific camp. Campers addressed notions of identity, the isolation associated with having a potentially stigmatizing chronic condition, therapeutic routines, and awareness of IBD. Noncampers focused on discomfort with IBD and their identity as an individual and child with the disease.

Conclusions:

Pediatric patients with IBD who attended a disease‐specific summer camp benefited from the experience. Exposure to peers with similar therapeutic routines and to the range of IBD helped campers build an empathetic social network and introduced a new perspective on their disease. Attending a disease‐specific camp helps pediatric patients with IBD in psychosocial adjustment and acquisition of knowledge about their disease. Ultimately, it helps them learn to live with their chronic condition.
Complementation of a temperature sensitiveEscherichia coli rpoDmutation usingLactobacillussigma factors
Authors: Winkler James D. , Kao Katy C.
Published: March 2014

Housekeeping sigma factors in theσ70family, as components of the RNA polymerase holoenzyme, are responsible for regulating transcription of genes related to vegetative growth. While these factors are well understood in model organisms such asEscherichia coliandBacillus subtilis, little experimental work has focused on the sigma factors in members of theLactobacillusgenus such asLactobacillus brevisandLactobacillus plantarum. This study evaluates the ability of putativeσ70proteins fromL. brevis() andL. plantarum() to complement a temperature sensitive mutation in theE. coli285cσ70protein. This report is the first to show that these heterologous sigma factors were capable of restoring the viability ofE. coli285c for growth at 40-43.5 °C, indicating theandare capable of initiating transcription in a complex with theE. coli285c RNA polymerase. These heterologous sigma factors may therefore be useful for improving biochemical knowledge of the sigma factor family or for use in the expression of hetereologous genomic libraries.
D-2-hydroxyglutarate produced by mutant IDH2 causes cardiomyopathy and neurodegeneration in mice
Authors: Akbay Esra A. , Moslehi Javid , Christensen Camilla L. , Saha Supriya , Tchaicha Jeremy H. , Ramkissoon Shakti H. , Stewart Kelly M. , Carretero Julian , Kikuchi Eiki , Zhang Haikuo , Cohoon Travis J. , Murray Stuart , Liu Wei , Uno Kazumasa , Fisch Sudeshna , Jones Kristen , Gurumurthy Sushma , Gliser Camelia , Choe Sung , Keenan Marie , Son Jaekyoung , Stanley Illana , Losman Julie A. , Padera Robert , Bronson Roderick T. , Asara John M. , Abdel-Wahab Omar , Amrein Philip C. , Fathi Amir T. , Danial Nika N. , Kimmelman Alec C. , Kung Andrew L. , Ligon Keith L. , Yen Katharine E. , Kaelin William G. , Bardeesy Nabeel , Wong Kwok-Kin
Published: March 2014

Mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (IDH1/2) have been discovered in several cancer types and cause the neurometabolic syndrome D2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (D2HGA). The mutant enzymes exhibit neomorphic activity resulting in production of D2-hydroxyglutaric acid (D-2HG). To study the pathophysiological consequences of the accumulation of D-2HG, we generated transgenic mice with conditionally activated IDH2R140Q and IDH2R172K alleles. Global induction of mutant IDH2 expression in adults resulted in dilated cardiomyopathy, white matter abnormalities throughout the central nervous system (CNS), and muscular dystrophy. Embryonic activation of mutant IDH2 resulted in more pronounced phenotypes, including runting, hydrocephalus, and shortened life span, recapitulating the abnormalities observed in D2HGA patients. The diseased hearts exhibited mitochondrial damage and glycogen accumulation with a concordant up-regulation of genes involved in glycogen biosynthesis. Notably, mild cardiac hypertrophy was also observed in nude mice implanted with IDH2R140Q-expressing xenografts, suggesting that 2HG may potentially act in a paracrine fashion. Finally, we show that silencing of IDH2R140Q in mice with an inducible transgene restores heart function by lowering 2HG levels. Together, these findings indicate that inhibitors of mutant IDH2 may be beneficial in the treatment of D2HGA and suggest that 2HG produced by IDH mutant tumors has the potential to provoke a paraneoplastic condition.
The Gpr1/Zdbf2 locus provides new paradigms for transient and dynamic genomic imprinting in mammals
Authors: Duffié Rachel , Ajjan Sophie , Greenberg Maxim V. , Zamudio Natasha , Escamilla del Arenal Martin , Iranzo Julian , Okamoto Ikuhiro , Barbaux Sandrine , Fauque Patricia , Bourc'his Déborah
Published: March 2014

Many loci maintain parent-of-origin DNA methylation only briefly after fertilization during mammalian development: Whether this form of transient genomic imprinting can impact the early embryonic transcriptome or even have life-long consequences on genome regulation and possibly phenotypes is currently unknown. Here, we report a maternal germline differentially methylated region (DMR) at the mouse Gpr1/Zdbf2 (DBF-type zinc finger-containing protein 2) locus, which controls the paternal-specific expression of long isoforms of Zdbf2 (Liz) in the early embryo. This DMR loses parental specificity by gain of DNA methylation at implantation in the embryo but is maintained in extraembryonic tissues. As a consequence of this transient, tissue-specific maternal imprinting, Liz expression is restricted to the pluripotent embryo, extraembryonic tissues, and pluripotent male germ cells. We found that Liz potentially functions as both Zdbf2-coding RNA and cis-regulatory RNA. Importantly, Liz-mediated events allow a switch from maternal to paternal imprinted DNA methylation and from Liz to canonical Zdbf2 promoter use during embryonic differentiation, which are stably maintained through somatic life and conserved in humans. The Gpr1/Zdbf2 locus lacks classical imprinting histone modifications, but analysis of mutant embryonic stem cells reveals fine-tuned regulation of Zdbf2 dosage through DNA and H3K27 methylation interplay. Together, our work underlines the developmental and evolutionary need to ensure proper Liz/Zdbf2 dosage as a driving force for dynamic genomic imprinting at the Gpr1/Zdbf2 locus.
Producing and Concentrating Lenti-Cre for Mouse Infections
Authors: Gierut Jessica J. , Jacks Tyler E. , Haigis Kevin M.
Published: March 2014

Lentiviral vectors offer versatility as vehicles for gene delivery. They can transduce a wide range of cell types and integrate into the host genome, which results in long-term expression of the transgene (Cre) both in vitro and in vivo. This protocol describes how lentiviral particles are produced, purified, and concentrated.
Induction of Germline Apoptosis in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lant Benjamin , Derry W. Brent
Published: March 2014

RNA interference (RNAi) is an incredibly powerful tool for rapid and efficient knockdown of gene expression. This technology can be used to induce apoptosis in the germline of Caenorhabditis elegans. Genotoxic stressors such as ionizing radiation (IR), ultraviolet light, chemical mutagens (e.g., N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea [ENU]), and DNA cross-linking reagents can also be used to stimulate apoptosis. These approaches, described here, combined with the powers of in vivo imaging methods, should keep C. elegans apoptosis researchers busy for several years, sorting out how various signaling pathways influence life and death decisions in this organism.
Large-Scale Immunopurification of Ribonucleoprotein Complexes from Drosophila Nucleoplasmic Extracts for Tiling Microarrays
Authors: Rio Donald C.
Published: March 2014

It is of interest to be able to define sets of cellular RNAs associated with specific RNA-binding proteins. This “guilt by association” can lead to new insights into how RNA-binding proteins modulate posttranscriptional gene expression of specific target RNAs. To identify these RNAs, antibodies against RNA-binding proteins can be used to immunopurify endogenous RNA–protein complexes from cells, and then the associated RNAs can be characterized. The method described here was developed to identify binding regions on nuclear transcripts for Drosophila heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs). An antibody is added to an RNP extract and incubated to allow antigen–antibody complexes to form. The antibody–antigen complexes are then retrieved by binding of the antibody constant region to staphylococcal Protein A immobilized on Sepharose beads. The bead-immobilized complexes are then washed and RNA is prepared. The RNA is used to generate random-primed cDNA, cRNA, and biotinlyated cDNA probes for use on Affymetrix whole-genome Drosophila tiling arrays.
Spectral Methods for Functional Brain Imaging
Authors: Kleinfeld David , Mitra Partha P.
Published: March 2014

Dynamic functional imaging experiments typically generate large, multivariate data sets that contain considerable spatial and temporal complexity. The goal of this introduction is to present signal-processing techniques that allow the underlying spatiotemporal structure to be readily distilled and that also enable signal versus noise contributions to be separated.
X-ray crystal structures of Al-doped (Y,Ca)Ba2Cu3O7−ywhiskers
Authors: Bertolotti Federica , Calore Leandro , Gervasio Giuliana , Agostino Angelo , Truccato Marco , Operti Lorenza
Published: March 2014

Al+3-doped (Y,Ca)Ba2Cu3O7−y(YBCO) whiskers have been synthesized using a solid-state reaction technique. These materials are promising candidates for solid-state THz applications based on sequences of Josephson Junctions (IJJs). Alumina addition was systematically varied and the effect of aluminium incorporation on the structure has been investigated using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Aluminium only replaces Cu atoms in the O–Cu–O–Cu chains and a gradual transition from orthorhombic to tetragonal space group occurs, thus increasing the Al content. A gradual modification of the coordination sphere of the copper site has also been observed. The Ca2+ion substitutes mainly the Y3+ion and also, to a small extent, the Ba2+ion.
Charge-density analysis using multipolar atom and spherical charge models: 2-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione, a compound displaying a resonance-assisted hydrogen bond
Authors: Nassour Ayoub , Kubicki Maciej , Wright Jonathan , Borowiak Teresa , Dutkiewicz Grzegorz , Lecomte Claude , Jelsch Christian
Published: March 2014

The experimental charge-density distribution in 2-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione in the crystal state was analyzed by synchrotron X-ray diffraction data collection at 0.33 Å resolution. The molecule in the crystal is in the enol form. The experimental electron density was refined using the Hansen–Coppens multipolar model and an alternative modeling, based on spherical atoms and additional charges on the covalent bonds and electron lone-pair sites. The crystallographic refinements, charge-density distributions, molecular electrostatic potentials, dipole moments and intermolecular interaction energies obtained from the different charge-density models were compared. The experimental results are also compared with the theoretical charge densities using theoretical structure factors obtained from periodic quantum calculations at the B3LYP/6-31G** level. A strong intermolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond connects molecules along the [001] direction. The deformation density maps show the resonance within the O=C—C=C—OH fragment and merged lone pair lobes on the hydroxyl O atom. This resonance is further confirmed by the analysis of charges and topology of the electron density.
Re-conceptualising call-centres as sites of control: the insider perspective
Authors: Kasabov Edward , C.C.C. da Cunha Anna
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The role of call-centres during service recovery has attracted much attention in research. However, marketers know less about controlling customers during recovery interactions and consequences of such control. In order to address this gap and empirically ascertain whether service interactions are marked by customer centricity or by employees exerting control over customers, the aim of the authors was to organise an empirical research in two Brazilian call-centres.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research consisted of direct, open observation and 33 semi-structured interviews with insiders (call-centre managers, supervisors and operatives).

Findings

– Four key findings emerged during interviews with insiders. First, control over customers may be more widely practiced than assumed in certain sections of marketing academe. Second, such control is viewed positively by call-centre insiders and is sanctioned by management. Third, control does not disempower and demoralise call-centre staff but protects operatives. Finally, control does not seem to unavoidably generate lasting customer dissatisfaction. These findings are incorporated in a framework of call-centre management which incorporates control through scripting.

Research limitations/implications

– The discussion calls for the revisit of certain marketing concepts and philosophies, including customer orientation, by demonstrating that control over customers is practised and should not be viewed negatively or avoided altogether in practice and as a topic of analysis. A re-conceptualisation of call-centres as sites of control over customers is proposed.

Originality/value

– Control and power are rarely analysed in services marketing. This is one of a few studies that makes sense of providers' (insiders') viewpoints and argues that control may play a constructive role and should be seen as a legitimate topic of services and call-centre analysis. As such it addresses a question of intellectual and practical importance which is rarely discussed and may be viewed as incongruous with an age when customers are assumed to have rights.