bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composite resins based on novel and highly reactive bisglycidyl methacrylate monomers
Authors: Herrera‐González Ana María , D'Accorso Norma Beatriz , Cuevas‐Suárez Carlos Enrique , Fascio Mirta Liliana , García‐Serrano Jesús , Alho Miriam Martins , Zamarripa‐Calderón Juan Eliezer
Published: May 2014

Three new bisglycidyl monomers; 1,4‐bis((2‐hydroxy‐3‐methacryloxypropoxy) methyl)benzene (MB‐Phe‐OH), 1,4‐bis(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methacryloxypropoxy)2‐cis‐butene (MB‐Cis‐OH), and 1,7‐bis(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methacryloxypropoxy)heptane (MB‐1,7‐OH); were synthesized and used as Bis‐GMA/TEGDMA (bisphenolglycidyl methacrylate/triethylene glycol dimethacrylate) composite resin additives. Flexural properties and double bond conversion of the dental resins composed of silanizated inorganic filler and organic matrices containing new monomers were evaluated. The composite resins formulated, using the monomers MB‐Cis‐OH and MB‐1,7‐OH, have mechanical properties and double bond conversion comparable with those of Bis‐GMA/TEGDMA composite resin used as control. The composite containing the new monomer MB‐Phe‐OH has better flexural properties (flexural strength 65.01 MPa and flexural modulus 5675.91 MPa) than the control composite resin (flexural strength 52.85 MPa and flexural modulus 4879.72 MPa); this could be attributed to the molecular structure of the monomer and its high double bond conversion level of 74.19%. The new bisglycidyl methacrylate monomer MB‐Phe‐OH could be potentially useful in the development of new organic matrices for dental composite resins with high double bond conversion and enhanced mechanical properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40971.
Interleukin‐6 Deficiency Corrects Nephritis, Lymphocyte Abnormalities, and Secondary Sjögren's Syndrome Features in Lupus‐Prone Sle1.Yaa Mice
Authors: Maier‐Moore Jacen S. , Horton Christopher G. , Mathews Shirley A. , Confer Anthony W. , Lawrence Christina , Pan Zijian , Coggeshall K. Mark , Farris A. Darise
Published: May 2014

Objective

To assess disease features in Sle1.Yaa mice with genetic interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) deficiency.

Methods

Sera and tissues were collected from C57BL/6 (B6), Sle1.Yaa, and Sle1.Yaa.IL‐6−/− mice and analyzed for various features of disease. Using serum samples, autoantibody specificities were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect immunofluorescence, cytokine production was analyzed by Luminex and ELISA, and levels of blood urea nitrogen were determined by ELISA. Renal, lung, and salivary gland tissue sections were evaluated for pathologic changes. Lymphocyte phenotypes, including CD4+ T cell cytokine production, and those of follicular and extrafollicular T helper subsets, germinal center B cells, and plasma cells, were determined using flow cytometry.

Results

IL‐6 deficiency not only ameliorated autoantibody production and renal disease in this model, but also effectively reduced inflammation of lungs and salivary glands. Furthermore, IL‐6 deficiency abrogated differentiation of Th1 and extrafollicular T helper cells, germinal center B cells, and plasma cells in the spleen and eliminated renal T cells with IL‐17, interferon‐γ, and IL‐21 production potential.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight IL‐6–mediated T cell aberrations in Yaa‐driven autoimmunity and support the concept of therapeutic IL‐6/IL‐6 receptor blockade in systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome by impairing the production of autoantibodies and lymphocytic infiltration of the kidneys, lungs, and salivary glands.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Down‐Regulates the RANKL–RANK Signaling Pathway by Activating Lyn Tyrosine Kinase in Mouse Models
Authors: Mun Se Hwan , Oh Dongmyung , Lee Sun‐Kyeong
Published: May 2014

Objective

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an important modulator of innate and adaptive immunity as well as local inflammatory responses. We previously reported that MIF down‐regulated osteoclastogenesis through a mechanism that requires CD74. The aim of the current study was to examine whether MIF modulates osteoclastogenesis through Lyn phosphorylation, and whether down‐regulation of RANKL‐mediated signaling requires the association of CD74, CD44, and Lyn.

Methods

CD74‐knockout (CD74‐KO), CD44‐KO, and Lyn‐KO mouse models were used to investigate whether Lyn requires these receptors and coreceptors. The effects of MIF on osteoclastogenesis were assessed using Western blot analysis, small interfering RNA (siRNA)–targeted down‐regulation of Lyn, Lyn‐KO mice, and real‐time imaging of Lyn molecules to surface proteins.

Results

MIF treatment induced Lyn expression, and MIF down‐regulated RANKL‐induced activator protein 1 (AP‐1) and the Syk/phospholipase Cγ cascade during osteoclastogenesis through activated Lyn tyrosine kinase. The results of immunoprecipitation studies revealed that MIF receptors associated with Lyn in response to MIF treatment. Studies using Lyn‐specific siRNA and Lyn‐KO mice confirmed our findings.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the tyrosine kinase Lyn is activated when MIF binds to its receptor CD74 and its coreceptor CD44 and, in turn, down‐regulates the RANKL‐mediated signaling cascade by suppressing NF‐ATc1 protein expression through down‐regulation of AP‐1 and calcium signaling components.
A Gold Coordination Compound as a Chemical Probe to Unravel Aquaporin‐7 Function
Authors: Madeira Ana , de Almeida Andreia , de Graaf Chris , Camps Marta , Zorzano Antonio , Moura Teresa F. , Casini Angela , Soveral Graça
Published: May 2014

Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane water/glycerol channels that are involved in many physiological functions. Aquaporin‐based modulators are predicted to have potential utility in the treatment of several diseases, as well as chemical tools to assess AQPs function in biological systems. We recently reported gold(III) compounds as human AQP3 inhibitors, with Auphen as the most potent of the series. In this work, we assessed the modulation of aquaporin‐7 (AQP7) expressed in an adipocyte cell model and show that Auphen significantly inhibits mouse and human AQP7. By homology modeling and molecular docking it was possible to identify the thioether groups of methionine residues, in particular Met47, as likely candidates for binding to the gold(III) complex. Our data point to Auphen as a useful chemical tool to detect AQP7 function. It might constitute a basis to develop inhibitors with improved affinity towards different aquaglyceroporin isoforms.
Oxidation of Carbon Monoxide over MLaOx Perovskites Supported on Mesoporous Zirconia
Authors: Davshan Nikolai A. , Kustov Alexander L. , Tkachenko Olga P. , Kustov Leonid M. , Kim Chang Hwan
Published: May 2014

The oxidation of CO was studied on a series of MLaO3 perovskites (M=Co, Fe, Ni) supported on mesoporous zirconia that are synthesized by using a glycine‐mediated method and characterized by using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy. The activity of the catalysts in the CO oxidation reaction follows the order Co>Ni>Fe.
What is the malignancy risk for atypia of undetermined significance? Three years' experience at a university hospital in Turkey
Authors: Gocun Pinar Uyar , Karakus Esra , Bulutay Pinar , Akturk Mujde , Akin Murat , Poyraz Aylar
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (BSRTC) provides uniform diagnostic terminology for communication between pathologists and clinicians. Each diagnostic category is associated with a specific risk of malignancy and a recommendation for its management. The indeterminate diagnostic categories of atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) present a major challenge for both pathologists and clinicians. We report our institution's 3 years' experience with the AUS/FLUS category and follow‐up of these patients.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted for all thyroid fine‐needle aspirations (FNAs) between July 2010 and July 2013. During this period, 9242 nodules from 4916 patients were reported according to the BSRTC guidelines. We adopted the AUS terminology in our practice to refer to both AUS, and FLUS.

RESULTS

Of the 4916 patients, 347 (7%) were diagnosed as AUS. The malignancy risk for patients who underwent surgical resection after initial diagnosis of AUS was 22.8%, whereas that for patients who underwent a second FNA and surgical resection was 36%. When we included patients with second FNA and without surgery, the malignancy risk was 15.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The malignancy risk for AUS reported in the present study is consistent with those reported previously and is higher than those anticipated according to the Bethesda System. This supports that a multimodal approach (clinical, radiologic, and cytopathologic) is necessary for the management of thyroid nodules diagnosed as AUS. Therefore, we suggest that the recommendation for repeat FNA following an initial diagnosis of AUS should be based on a multimodal approach for each particular patient. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2014;122:604–610. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
An Interwoven Network of MnO2 Nanowires and Carbon Nanotubes as the Anode for Bendable Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ee Shu Jing , Pang Hongchang , Mani Ulaganathan , Yan Qingyu , Ting Siong Luong , Chen Peng
Published: May 2014

A porous interwoven network is synthesized, consisting of ultralong MnO2 nanowires and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Serving as the anode for a lithium‐ion battery, this nanocomposite demonstrates excellent performance due to the synergistic integration of these two 1D materials. Taking advantage of the excellent flexibility and strength of this MnO2–MWCNT network, a full, bendable battery is made that offers high capacity, cycling stability, and low cost.
Hexaphenyl‐p‐xylene: A Rigid Pseudo‐Octahedral Core at the Service of Three‐Dimensional Porous Frameworks
Authors: Schade Alexandra , Monnereau Laure , Muller Thierry , Bräse Stefan
Published: May 2014

Herein, we report three different hyper‐cross‐linked polymers (HCPs), which were synthesised by means of copper‐catalysed Huisgen 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition (CuAAC). These polymers represent novel porous networks as these are the first examples of frameworks based on a rigid pseudo‐octahedral monomer (para‐substituted hexaphenyl‐p‐xylene)—a sixfold functionalised core. The porous “click” HCPs are insoluble in common organic solvents as well as in strong acids and bases and show a high thermal stability. Their porosity was confirmed by sorption measurements using nitrogen gas at 77 K. The highest Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area of 725 m2 g−1 was obtained by a combination of the tetrahedral tetrakisphenylmethane‐azide and the pseudo‐octahedral hexaphenyl‐p‐xylene‐alkyne (1,4‐ditritylbenzene‐alkyne).
Towards a Zero‐Waste Oxidative Coupling of Nonactivated Aromatics by Supported Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Serna Pedro , Corma Avelino
Published: May 2014

We show that gold nanoparticles are able to perform the direct oxidative coupling of nonactivated aromatics with O2 as the only co‐reagent. In this reaction, the aromatic acts both as reactant and solvent. Biphenyl, for example, can be obtained from benzene with high selectivity and a turnover number (TON) of 230 per pass. Similarly, several substituted biaryls can be prepared. Pd performs only one TON and even when a second catalytic functionality is introduced, together with strong acidic conditions, TON is always lower than 100. Other catalysts require iodine for performing the reaction, leading to 2 kg of waste for 1 kg of biphenyl formed, whereas no waste is created by the oxidative coupling with gold nanoparticles.
Purification of Biomass‐Derived 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural and Its Catalytic Conversion to 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid
Authors: Yi Guangshun , Teong Siew Ping , Li Xiukai , Zhang Yugen
Published: May 2014

A simple and effective water extraction method is presented for the purification 5‐hydroxylmethylfurfural (HMF) obtained from a biomass dehydration system. Up to 99 % of the HMF can be recovered and the HMF in aqueous solution is directly converted to 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) as the sole product. This purification technique allows an integrated process to produce FDCA from fructose via HMF prepared in an isopropanol monophasic system, with an overall FDCA yield of 83 % obtained. From Jerusalem raw artichoke biomass to FDCA via HMF prepared in a water/MIBK (methyl isobutyl ketone) biphasic system, an overall FDCA yield of 55 % is obtained.
Control of the misuse of testosterone in castrated horses based on an international threshold in plasma
Authors: Ho Emmie N. M. , Kwok W. H. , Leung David K. K. , Riggs Christopher M. , Sidlow Gordon , Stewart Brian D. , Wong April S. Y. , Wan Terence S. M.
Published: May 2014

Testosterone is an endogenous steroid produced primarily in the testes. Trace levels of testosterone are found in urine samples from geldings, as testosterone is also secreted by the adrenal. An international threshold of free and conjugated testosterone in urine (20 ng/mL) was adopted by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) in 1996 for controlling testosterone misuse in geldings. In view of the recent popularity of using blood in doping control testing, it is necessary to establish a threshold for testosterone in gelding plasma. A liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC/MS) method was developed for quantifying low levels of free testosterone in gelding plasma. Based on a population study of 152 post‐race plasma samples, the mean ± SD concentration of plasma testosterone was determined to be 14.7 ± 6.8 pg/mL. Normal distribution could be obtained after square‐root or cube‐root transformation, resulting in respective tentative thresholds of 49 or 55 pg/mL (corresponding to a risk factor of less than 1 in 10 000). A rounded‐up threshold of 100 pg/mL of free testosterone in plasma was proposed. Based on the administration of Testosterone Suspension 100 to six geldings, the same average detection time of 14 days was observed in either plasma or urine using the proposed plasma threshold and the existing international urine threshold. The maximum detection time was 18 days in plasma and 20 days in urine. The results demonstrated the proposed plasma threshold is effective in controlling the misuse of testosterone in geldings. Similar results were subsequently obtained in Europe, and this proposed threshold was adopted by IFHA in October 2013. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The functional diversity of essential genes required for mammalian cardiac development
Authors: Clowes Christopher , Boylan Michael G.S. , Ridge Liam A. , Barnes Emma , Wright Jayne A. , Hentges Kathryn E.
Published: May 2014

Genes required for an organism to develop to maturity (for which no other gene can compensate) are considered essential. The continuing functional annotation of the mouse genome has enabled the identification of many essential genes required for specific developmental processes including cardiac development. Patterns are now emerging regarding the functional nature of genes required at specific points throughout gestation. Essential genes required for development beyond cardiac progenitor cell migration and induction include a small and functionally homogenous group encoding transcription factors, ligands and receptors. Actions of core cardiogenic transcription factors from the Gata, Nkx, Mef, Hand, and Tbx families trigger a marked expansion in the functional diversity of essential genes from midgestation onwards. As the embryo grows in size and complexity, genes required to maintain a functional heartbeat and to provide muscular strength and regulate blood flow are well represented. These essential genes regulate further specialization and polarization of cell types along with proliferative, migratory, adhesive, contractile, and structural processes. The identification of patterns regarding the functional nature of essential genes across numerous developmental systems may aid prediction of further essential genes and those important to development and/or progression of disease. genesis 52:713–737, 2014. © 2014 The Authors. Genesis Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Specificity of Light‐Induced Covalent Adduct Formation between RuII Oligonucleotide Conjugates and Target Sequences for Gene Silencing Applications
Authors: Marcélis Lionel , Surin Mathieu , Lartia Rémy , Moucheron Cécile , Defrancq Eric , Kirsch‐De Mesmaeker Andrée
Published: May 2014

Under irradiation, Ru–TAP (TAP = 1,4,5,8‐tetraazaphenanthrene) complexes tethered to oligonucleotides (Ru–ODN) hybridized to their complementary target sequences produce irreversible adducts with guanine (G) bases. The interesting feature is that the G bases that react in the double strand (DS) topology belong exclusively to the complementary strand; thus, no G base of the Ru–ODN strand participates in the production of these adducts. This highly specific photoreaction in the DS topology is demonstrated by gel electrophoresis analyses of different duplex sequences in which the positions of the G bases are varied. Atomistic molecular modelling simulations indicate that this specificity is due to important steric constraints for the intrastrand adduct formation in the duplex. Luminescence lifetime measurements furnish more detailed information on these different duplex systems.
Access to Pyrrole Derivatives in Water with the Assistance of Methylated Cyclodextrins
Authors: Menuel Stéphane , Rousseau Jolanta , Rousseau Cyril , Vaičiūnaite Edita , Dodonova Jelena , Tumkevičius Sigitas , Monflier Eric
Published: May 2014

A new and efficient catalytic protocol with which to synthesize N‐substituted pyrrole derivatives from amines and 1,4‐diketones by Paal–Knorr condensation in aqueous medium has been developed by using partially methylated β‐cyclodextrins (RAME‐β‐CD). The modified cyclodextrins were used as mass transfer agents without catalyst for reactive ketones and with nitrophenol as catalyst for more hindered ketones.
Uncertainty quantification for the reliability of the analytical analysis for the simplified model of CO2 geological sequestration
Authors: Bao Jie , Xu Zhijie , Fang Yilin
Published: May 2014

A hydromechanical model with analytical solutions including pressure evolution and geomechanical deformation for geological CO2 injection and sequestration were introduced in our previous work. However, the reliability and accuracy of the hydromechanical model and the companion analytical solution are uncertain because of the assumptions and simplifications in the analytical model, though it was validated by a few example cases. This study introduces a method to efficiently measure the accuracy of the analytical model and specify the range of acceptable input parameters that can guarantee the accuracy and reliability of the analytical solution. A coupled hydro‐geomechanical subsurface transport simulator, Subsurface Transport over Multiple Phases (STOMP), was adopted as a reference to justify the reliability of the hydromechanical model and the analytical solution. A quasi‐Monte Carlo sampling method was applied to efficiently sample the input parameter space.
Sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (SLC10A1) deficiency: Conjugated hypercholanemia without a clear clinical phenotype
Authors: Vaz Frédéric M. , Paulusma Coen C. , Huidekoper Hidde , de Ru Minke , Lim Cynthia , Koster Janet , Ho‐Mok Kam , Bootsma Albert H. , Groen Albert K. , Schaap Frank G. , Oude Elferink Ronald P. J. , Waterham Hans R. , Wanders Ronald J.A.
Published: May 2014

The enterohepatic circulation of bile salts is an important physiological route to recycle bile salts and ensure intestinal absorption of dietary lipids. The Na+‐taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide SLC10A1 (NTCP) plays a key role in this process as the major transporter of conjugated bile salts from the plasma compartment into the hepatocyte. Here we present the first patient with NTCP deficiency, who was clinically characterized by mild hypotonia, growth retardation, and delayed motor milestones. Total bile salts in plasma were extremely elevated (up to 1,500 μM, ref. <16.3) but there were no clinical signs of cholestatic jaundice, pruritis, or liver dysfunction. Bile salt synthesis and intestinal bile salt signaling were not affected, as evidenced by normal plasma 7α‐hydroxy‐4‐cholesten‐3‐one (C4) and FGF19 levels. Importantly, the presence of secondary bile salts in the circulation suggested residual enterohepatic cycling of bile salts. Sequencing of the SLC10A1 gene revealed a single homozygous nonsynonymous point mutation in the coding sequence of the gene, resulting in an arginine to histidine substitution at position 252. Functional studies showed that this mutation resulted in a markedly reduced uptake activity of taurocholic acid. Immunofluorescence studies and surface biotinylation experiments demonstrated that the mutant protein is virtually absent from the plasma membrane. Conclusion: We describe the identification of NTCP deficiency as a new inborn error of metabolism with a relatively mild clinical phenotype. The identification of NTCP deficiency confirms that this transporter is the main import system for conjugated bile salts into the liver but also indicates that auxiliary transporters are able to sustain the enterohepatic cycle in its absence. (Hepatology 2015;61:260–267)
Novel acoustic stimuli can alter locomotor speed to hippocampal theta relationship
Authors: Long Lauren L. , Hinman James R. , Chen Chi‐Ming A. , Stevenson Ian H. , Read Heather L. , Escabi Monty A. , Chrobak James J.
Published: May 2014

Hippocampal theta (6–12 Hz) plays a critical role in synchronizing the discharge of action potentials, ultimately orchestrating individual neurons into large‐scale ensembles. Alterations in theta dynamics may reflect variations in sensorimotor integration, the flow of sensory input, and/or cognitive processing. Previously we have investigated septotemporal variation in the locomotor speed to theta amplitude relationship as well as how that relationship is systematically altered as a function of novel, physical space. In the present study, we ask, beyond physical space, whether persistent and passive sound delivery can alter septal theta local field potential rhythm dynamics. Results indicate pronounced alterations in the slope of the speed to theta amplitude relationship as a function of sound presentation and location. Further, this reduction in slope habituates across days. The current findings highlight that moment‐to‐moment alterations in theta amplitude is a rich dynamic index that is quantitatively related to both alterations in motor behavior and sensory experience. The implications of these phenomena are discussed with respect to emergent cognitive functions subserved by hippocampal circuits. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pisiform bursitis: A forgotten pathology
Authors: Draghi Ferdinando , Gregoli Bettina , Bortolotto Chandra
Published: May 2014

Pisiform bursitis is a disease often forgotten in both everyday practice and medical literature. The pisiform bursa is not constant; when present, it is located between the tendon of the flexor carpi ulnaris and pisiform bone. Bursitis causes pain in the medial side of the wrist and enters into the differential diagnosis of various diseases of this anatomic region, in particular, with enthesitis of the flexor carpi ulnaris and the ganglion of piso‐pyramidal compartment. We present the sonographic appearance of pisiform bursitis in a symptomatic patient. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:560–561, 2014
In situ identification of gemstone beads excavated from tombs of the Han Dynasties in Hepu county, Guangxi Province, China using a portable Raman spectrometer
Authors: Dong Junqing , Han Yunling , Ye Jiwang , Li Qinghui , Liu Song , Gu Donghong
Published: May 2014

A portable Raman spectrometer was used for the in situ nondestructive analysis of precious gemstone beads collected in the Han‐Cultural Museum of Hepu county. These beads dated to the Han Dynasties (206 bc to 220 ad) were unearthed from the Hepu county, which was one of the important ancient ports along the Maritime Silk Road, Guangxi Province. Gemstone beads made of beryl group minerals (e.g. aquamarine, goshenite and heliodor) and almandine, which had formerly been mistakenly regarded as coloured quartz beads, were successfully identified. These beryl beads were the earliest known ones ever found in China. In addition, some beads made of amethyst, chalcedony and citrine were also determined. Referred to the research results reported for other artefacts from Hepu county and other places, the possible provenances of these gemstone beads are discussed briefly. The present research provides valuable information for the early trade between south China and South Asia through the Maritime Silk Road. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding Ethnicity and National Culture: A Theoretical Perspective on Knowledge Management in the Organization
Authors: Khan Shazia Rehman , Khan Iram A.
Published: May 2014

The focus of this research is to relate ethnicity and its effect on national cultural values. The paper points out how the ethnic and economic reasons for conflict influence this interaction that creates barriers in the knowledge management processes in an organization. Theoretical model is predicated on two structural dimensions of ethnicity: ethnic boundary and ethnic competition, which are then related to the national cultural values of individualism, masculinity, power distance, and uncertainty avoidance. The cultural values of long‐term versus short‐term orientation and indulgence versus restraint are not included in the conceptualization as the first one is rarely used because of its inclination toward Confucian ethic, whereas the second is found to be more or less complementary to long‐term versus short‐term orientation. In the paper, prejudice and limited absorptive capacity are identified as the first‐level effects, which, consequentially, produce the barriers of knowledge hoarding and knowledge stickiness during the course of knowledge transference in an organization. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Motor unit number index (MUNIX) in the orbicularis oculi muscle of healthy subjects
Authors: Ahn Suk‐Won , Kim Ki‐Won , Kim Jee‐Eun , Shin Je‐Young , Kim Dong‐Gun , Lee Kwang‐Woo , Sung Jung‐Joon
Published: May 2014

Introduction: The motor unit number index (MUNIX) refers to an electrophysiological method that measures the number of motor units in the surface electromyographic interference pattern (SIP) recorded during graded muscle contractions. MUNIX studies of limb muscles have been conducted, but MUNIX studies of bulbo‐facial muscles have not been reported. Methods: We assessed bilateral orbicularis oculi muscles using MUNIX, and the reference values and reproducibility of MUNIX and motor unit size index (MUSIX) were investigated in healthy subjects. Results: In this study, MUNIX was applied successfully to the orbicularis oculi muscles and showed good reproducibility. The correlation coefficients for MUNIX and MUSIX were 0.803 and 0.592, respectively, and the coefficients of variation were 20.9% and 8.5%, respectively. Conclusions: The MUNIX procedure for the orbicularis oculi muscle would be a useful tool for evaluating bulbar symptoms, especially in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Muscle Nerve 51: 197–200, 2015
Finite analytic numerical method for solving two‐dimensional quasi‐Laplace equation
Authors: Qu Zheng‐Xian , Liu Zhi‐Feng , Wang Xiao‐Hong , Zhao Peng
Published: May 2014

A typical power series analytic solution of quasi‐Laplace equation in the infinitesimal angle domain around the singular point of the square cells is provided in this article. Toward the singular point, the gradient of the potential variable will tend to infinity, which is described by the first term of the power series solution. Based on this analytic solution, three finite analytic numerical methods are proposed. These methods are analogous and are constructed, respectively, when considering different numbers of the terms or using different schemes to determine the relevant parameters in the power series. Numerical examples show that all of the three finite analytic numerical methods proposed can provide rather accurate solutions than the traditional numerical methods. In contrast, when using the traditional numerical schemes to solve the quasi‐Laplace equation in a strong heterogeneous medium, the refinement ratio for the grid cell needs to increase dramatically to get an accurate result. In practical applications, subdividing each origin cell into 2 × 2 or 3 × 3 subcells is enough for the finite analytical numerical methods to get relatively accurate results. The finite analytical numerical methods are also convenient to construct the flux field with high accuracy.© 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 30: 1755–1769, 2014
Podocyte autophagic activity plays a protective role in renal injury and delays the progression of podocytopathies
Authors: Zeng Caihong , Fan Yun , Wu Junnan , Shi Shaolin , Chen Zhaohong , Zhong Yongzhong , Zhang Changming , Zen Ke , Liu Zhihong
Published: May 2014

The progression of podocytopathies is quite variable among patients and the underlying reason for this remains unclear. Here, we report that autophagic activity in podocytes plays a critical role in controlling the progression of podocytopathies. Morphological and biochemical studies on renal biopsies from patients with minimal change disease (MCD) or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) showed that glomeruli, and in particular podocytes, from MCD patients had higher levels of Beclin1‐mediated autophagic activity than glomeruli from FSGS patients. Repeat renal biopsies of MCD patients enabled tracking of podocyte autophagic activity and confirmed that patients maintaining high podocyte autophagic activity retained MCD status, whereas patients with decreased podocyte autophagic activity progressed to FSGS. Inhibition of autophagic activity, by knocking down Beclin1 or by treating with 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) or chloroquine, enhanced puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN)‐induced apoptosis of podocytes. In contrast, rapamycin‐mediated promotion of autophagic activity decreased this apoptosis. In PAN‐treated rats, inhibition of autophagy with 3‐MA or chloroquine resulted in earlier onset and greater proteinuria, more extensive foot‐process effacement, and reduction in podocyte markers, whereas rapamycin‐mediated stimulation of autophagy led to decreased proteinuria and less severe foot‐process effacement, but higher expression of podocyte markers. This study demonstrates that podocyte autophagic activity plays a critical protective role in renal injury and that maintaining podocyte autophagic activity represents a potential therapeutic strategy for controlling the progression of podocytopathies. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Exploring psychological responses to genetic testing for Lynch Syndrome within the family context
Authors: Eliezer Dina , Hadley Donald W. , Koehly Laura M.
Published: May 2014

Objective

Genetic testing for hereditary cancer susceptibility syndromes is a family‐centered process. Nonetheless, little research has explored how the family context affects psychological responses to genetic testing. We examine how personal test results and the test results of immediate and extended family members shape responses to genetic testing.

Methods

Individuals at risk of carrying a mutation associated with an inherited cancer susceptibility syndrome (Lynch syndrome) received genetic testing. Six months after receiving their results, participants reported on cancer distress, cancer worry, and depressive symptoms.

Results

Among mutation carriers for Lynch syndrome, the higher the proportion of carriers in their immediate family, the less cancer worry and distress they reported. In contrast, mutation carriers and non‐carriers with a high proportion of carriers in their immediate family and mutation carriers with a high proportion of carriers in their extended family were at elevated risk for clinically significant levels of depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Personal test results alone are not highly predictive of psychological outcomes. Instead, the interaction between personal and family test results, or in some cases, family test results alone, predict key psychological outcomes. The current research has important implications for genetic counseling and intervention efforts. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Expansion Behavior and Temperature Mapping of Thermites in Burn Tubes as a Function of Fill Length
Authors: Densmore John M. , Sullivan Kyle T. , Gash Alexander E. , Kuntz Joshua D.
Published: May 2014

The reaction of loosely‐packed aluminum/copper oxide (Al/CuO) thermites in a 12 cm long acrylic burn tube was investigated as a function of the fill length from 2 to 10 cm. The velocity of the luminous front was measured both in the filled and unfilled region, and approached 1000 m s−1 in the unfilled region, independent of the fill length. This value is approximately a factor of two higher than the fastest velocity measured in the filled region, 606 m s−1, for the 10 cm filled tube. The velocity increase in the unfilled region ist likely due to the increased open porosity, which can support faster flow velocities for a given pressure gradient relative to that in the porous material. A high‐speed color imaging pyrometer was used to thermally map the evolution of the flame in both regions. Near the luminous front in the filled section, the temperature was observed to rapidly increase in a 1–2 cm zone to a maximum value near 3200 K, and an average value near 3000 K was sustained in the wake well after the front passes and exits the tube. In partially‐filled tubes, even for the lowest fill length of 2 cm, the intermediate and/or product species could be seen to expand forward and completely fill the tube with a sustained temperature of ca. 3000 K. This temperature did not decay during the expansion, suggesting that the material continues to react as it expands. The results raise several questions about what a burn tube experiment is really measuring; such as what fraction of the material has burned when the luminous front passes and what role open cracks or microstructures play in promoting transport. These questions are critically important towards developing a predictive capability for confined, loosely packed deflagrations.
Cotton functionalized with peptides: characterization and synthetic methods
Authors: Orlandin Andrea , Formaggio Fernando , Toffoletti Antonio , Peggion Cristina
Published: May 2014

Three approaches for the chemical ligation of peptides to cotton fibers are described and compared. This investigation was encouraged by the need to create peptide‐decorated natural textiles, furnished with useful properties (e.g. antimicrobial activity). IR absorption spectroscopy is proved to be an easy and fast method to check the covalent anchorage of a peptide to cotton, whereas for a quantitative determination, a UV absorption method was employed. We also analyzed the usefulness of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy to characterize our peptide‐cotton conjugates. Copyright © 2014 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can we trust climate models?
Authors: Hargreaves J. C. , Annan J. D.
Published: May 2014

What are the predictions of climate models, should we believe them, and are they falsifiable? Probably the most iconic and influential result arising from climate models is the prediction that, dependent on the rate of increase of CO2 emissions, global and annual mean temperature will rise by around 2–4°C over the 21st century. We argue that this result is indeed credible, as are the supplementary predictions that the land will on average warm by around 50% more than the oceans, high latitudes more than the tropics, and that the hydrological cycle will generally intensify. Beyond these and similar broad statements, however, we presently find little evidence of trustworthy predictions at fine spatial scale and annual to decadal timescale from climate models.

This article is categorized under:

Climate Models and Modeling > Knowledge Generation with Models
Climate services for society: origins, institutional arrangements, and design elements for an evaluation framework
Authors: Vaughan Catherine , Dessai Suraje
Published: May 2014

Climate services involve the generation, provision, and contextualization of information and knowledge derived from climate research for decision making at all levels of society. These services are mainly targeted at informing adaptation to climate variability and change, widely recognized as an important challenge for sustainable development. This paper reviews the development of climate services, beginning with a historical overview, a short summary of improvements in climate information, and a description of the recent surge of interest in climate service development including, for example, the Global Framework for Climate Services, implemented by the World Meteorological Organization in October 2012. It also reviews institutional arrangements of selected emerging climate services across local, national, regional, and international scales. By synthesizing existing literature, the paper proposes four design elements of a climate services evaluation framework. These design elements include: problem identification and the decision‐making context; the characteristics, tailoring, and dissemination of the climate information; the governance and structure of the service, including the process by which it is developed; and the socioeconomic value of the service. The design elements are intended to serve as a guide to organize future work regarding the evaluation of when and whether climate services are more or less successful. The paper concludes by identifying future research questions regarding the institutional arrangements that support climate services and nascent efforts to evaluate them. WIREs Clim Change 2014, 5:587–603. doi: 10.1002/wcc.290

This article is categorized under:

Climate Models and Modeling > Knowledge Generation with Models

Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change > Institutions for Adaptation

Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Climate Science and Decision Making
Coatings and surface modifications imparting antimicrobial activity to orthopedic implants
Authors: Kargupta Roli , Bok Sangho , Darr Charles M. , Crist Brett D. , Gangopadhyay Keshab , Gangopadhyay Shubhra , Sengupta Shramik
Published: May 2014

Bacterial colonization and biofilm formation on an orthopedic implant surface is one of the worst possible outcomes of orthopedic intervention in terms of both patient prognosis and healthcare costs. Making the problem even more vexing is the fact that infections are often caused by events beyond the control of the operating surgeon and may manifest weeks to months after the initial surgery. Herein, we review the costs and consequences of implant infection as well as the methods of prevention and management. In particular, we focus on coatings and other forms of implant surface modification in a manner that imparts some antimicrobial benefit to the implant device. Such coatings can be classified generally based on their mode of action: surface adhesion prevention, bactericidal, antimicrobial‐eluting, osseointegration promotion, and combinations of the above. Despite several advances in the efficacy of these antimicrobial methods, a remaining major challenge is ensuring retention of the antimicrobial activity over a period of months to years postoperation, an issue that has so far been inadequately addressed. Finally, we provide an overview of additional figures of merit that will determine whether a given antimicrobial surface modification warrants adoption for clinical use.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies

Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanomaterials and Implants
Polynuclear Chlorido Metal(II) Complexes with 1,2‐Di(1H‐­tetrazol‐1‐yl)ethane as Ligand Forming One‐ and Two‐dimensional Structures
Authors: Joas Manuel , Klapötke Thomas M.
Published: May 2014

The preparation and characterization of three metal(II) chlorido complexes with 1,2‐di(1H‐tetrazol‐1‐yl)ethane (dte) (1) as ligand is presented. The complexes have the following formula: [CoCl2(μ‐dte)(dte)2]n (2), [CuCl2(μ‐dte)2]n (3), and [Cd(μ‐Cl)2(μ‐dte)]n (4). Single crystal X‐ray diffraction of all three metal complexes was performed and the structures are discussed. All three central metal atoms are connected to polynuclear structures by the μ‐bridging ligand. Cobalt and copper are connected to one‐dimensional chains. The central cadmium(II) atoms are additionally connected by the chloride anions to a two‐dimensional network. Further, the cobalt(II) complex represents a special case with two terminal dte ligands.
Impact on Liver Cancer Treatment of a First Erroneous Diagnosis of Hemangioma
Authors: Portolani Nazario , Baiocchi Gianluca , Gheza Federico , Molfino Sarah , Grazioli Luigi , Olivetti Lucio , Romanini Laura , Frassi Eleonora , Giulini Stefano Maria
Published: May 2014

Background

Most liver hemangioma (HA) diagnoses are presumptive and based on radiological features and growth trend. The goal of this study was to analyze the impact of a false diagnosis of hemangioma upon the overall therapeutic course and upon the prognosis of a liver malignancy.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients with liver cancer who were observed in the period 2001–2007 after an initial erroneous diagnosis of HA were retrospectively evaluated. We studied their radiological workup after blind revision of the images by two radiologists with specific expertise in liver imaging, analyzing the relationship between overall management and center volume, mean delay from the first test to the curative treatment, and clinical consequences of this diagnostic mistake.

Results

The diagnosis of false HA occurred in a low‐volume center (LVC) in 75 % of cases. A specific risk for liver cancer was present in 71.4 % of patients. US gave a false diagnosis of HA in 25/27 patients, a CT scan in 18/25 patients, and MRI in 6/16 patients. The final diagnosis was reached with a mean delay of 22 months. Liver resection was possible in 22 patients; in the 17 hepatocellular carcinoma cases, the survival rate was 69.4 % at 5 years after the first observation.

Conclusions

A false diagnosis of HA in the presence of malignancy is not rare nowadays and significantly reduces the chances of cure. In situations at risk of having the error occur (poor technical quality of imaging, low specific experience, doubtful diagnosis, and high‐cancer‐risk patient), the rationale approach is to discuss the case with a multidisciplinary team skilled in the field of liver cancer.
Safe Negative Margin Width in Breast Conservative Therapy: Results from a Population with a High Percentage of Negative Prognostic Factors
Authors: Bhatti Abu Bakar , Khan Amina , Muzaffar Narjis , Siddiqui Neelam , Syed Aamir , Shah Mazhar , Aamir Awais , Jamshed Arif
Published: May 2014

Background

There remains a controversy in the literature regarding adequate width of negative surgical margins in breast conservative therapy (BCT). It is now advocated that no tumor on an inked margin is a safe negative margin. Majority of studies on the outcomes of BCT had patients with favorable prognostic factors. Pakistani population has a high expression of unfavorable prognostic factors. The objective of this study was to determine a safe negative margin width in Pakistani population that undergoes BCT.

Methods

A total of 603 patients with identifiable surgical margins underwent BCT from 1997 to 2009 in Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital. Patients were divided into close (≤2 mm), free (>2–10 mm), and wide (>10 mm) margin groups. Locoregional recurrence was defined as recurrence within the operated breast, ipsilateral axilla, or supraclavicular or internal mammary lymph nodes. Locoregional recurrence‐free survival was calculated from the date of surgery to the date of locoregional recurrence. Five‐year locoregional recurrence‐free survival was determined for margin groups. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard analyses were performed to determine independent predictors of locoregional recurrence.

Results

A total of 415 (69 %) patients were <50 years of age. There were 82 (15 %) T3/T4, 337 (56 %) poorly differentiated, and 238 (39 %) ER/PR −ve tumors. Nodal positivity was present in 314 (52 %) patients. The actual number of locoregional recurrences was 16 (12 %), 8 (3 %), and 10 (4.6 %), respectively (P = 0.002). Expected 5‐year locoregional recurrence‐free survival was 90, 97, and 96 %, respectively (P = 0.002). On multivariate analysis, tumor size, nodal involvement, and negative margin width were independent predictors of locoregional recurrence.

Conclusion

A negative margin width of 2 mm might represent an adequate negative margin width in the Pakistani population undergoing breast conservative therapy.
PEX14 binding to Arabidopsis PEX5 has differential effects on PTS1 and PTS2 cargo occupancy of the receptor
Authors: Lanyon-Hogg Thomas , Hooper Jacob , Gunn Sarah , Warriner Stuart L. , Baker Alison
Published: May 2014

PEX5 acts as a cycling receptor for import of PTS1 proteins into peroxisomes and as a co‐receptor for PEX7, the PTS2 receptor, but the mechanism of cargo unloading has remained obscure. Using recombinant protein domains we show PEX5 binding to the PEX14N‐terminal domain (PEX14N) has no effect on the affinity of PEX5 for a PTS1 containing peptide. PEX5 can form a complex containing both recombinant PTS1 cargo and endogenous PEX7‐thiolase simultaneously but isolation of the complex via the PEX14 construct resulted in an absence of thiolase, suggesting a possible role for PEX14 in the unloading of PTS2 cargos.
Recurrent transient focal neurological deficits in convexity meningioma: TIA or negative motor seizures?
Authors: Garg Arun , Muniem Abdul , Bhuyan Sushant , Bansal Atma
Published: May 2014

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is defined as a temporary focal neurological deficit of presumed vascular origin, lasting for less than 1 h, with no evidence of infarct on neuroimaging. If a patient is suffering from multiple cardiovascular risk factors and presents with transient and recurrent focal neurological deficits, the most likely diagnosis considered is TIA. As the possibility of stroke within first 24 h is high, such patients need aggressive investigation and management, and ideally should be hospitalized. TIA usually occurs due to major intracranial or extra cranial artery stenosis. However, if vascular imaging and cardiac workup is normal, possibility of small vessel disease is considered. Space occupying lesions usually presents with seizure, symptoms of raised intracranial pressure or progressive neurological deficits rather than TIA. There are a few case reports where meningioma presented as TIA, due to vascular compromise by encasing internal carotid artery. 1,2 transient focal neurological deficits can have other differentials like post ictal palsy and negative motor seizures. In a given patient with space occupying lesion like meningioma presenting with recurrent transient focal neurological deficits we need to consider all these differentials. We are hereby reporting a case of convexity meningioma, which presented as recurrent focal neurological deficit due to negative motor seizures, mimicking transient ischemic attack.