bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Multidisciplinary Critical Care
Authors: Blot Stijn , Afonso Elsa , Labeau Sonia
Published: January 2015

The intensive care unit is a work environment where superior dedication is crucial for optimizing patients’ outcomes. As this demanding commitment is multidisciplinary in nature, it requires special qualities of health care workers and organizations. Thus research in the field covers a broad spectrum of activities necessary to deliver cutting-edge care. However, given the numerous research articles and education activities available, it is difficult for modern critical care clinicians to keep up with the latest progress and innovation in the field. This article broadly summarizes new developments in multidisciplinary intensive care. It provides elementary information about advanced insights in the field via brief descriptions of selected articles grouped by specific topics. Issues considered include care for heart patients, mechanical ventilation, delirium, nutrition, pressure ulcers, early mobility, infection prevention, transplantation and organ donation, care for caregivers, and family matters.
Apoptosis-Associated Speck-like Protein Containing a CARD Forms Specks but Does Not Activate Caspase-1 in the Absence of NLRP3 during Macrophage Swelling
Authors: Compan Vincent , Martín-Sánchez Fátima , Baroja-Mazo Alberto , López-Castejón Gloria , Gomez Ana I. , Verkhratsky Alexei , Brough David , Pelegrín Pablo
Published: January 2015

Apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a C-terminal caspase recruitment domain (ASC) is a key adaptor molecule required for the inflammatory processes. ASC acts by bridging NLRP proteins, such as NLRP3, with procaspase-1 within the inflammasome complex, which subsequently results in the activation of caspase-1 and the secretion of IL-1β and IL-18. In response to bacterial infection, ASC also forms specks by self-oligomerization to activate caspase-1 and induce pyroptosis. Hitherto, the role of these specks in NLRP3 inflammasome activation in response to danger signals, such as a hypotonic environment, largely has been unexplored. In this article, we report that, under hypotonic conditions and independently of NLRP3, ASC was able to form specks that did not activate caspase-1. These specks were not associated with pyroptosis and were controlled by transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 channel–mediated signaling. However, interaction with NLRP3 enhanced ASC speck formation, leading to fully functional inflammasomes and caspase-1 activation. This study reveals that the ASC speck can present different oligomerization assemblies and represents an essential step in the activation of functional NLRP3 inflammasomes.
On Stanley Depths of Certain Monomial Factor Algebras
Authors: Tang Zhongming
Published: January 2015

Let S = K[x1 , . . . , xn] be the polynomial ring in n-variables over a ûeld K and I a monomial ideal of S. According to one standard primary decomposition of I, we get a Stanley decomposition of the monomial factor algebra S/I. Using this Stanley decomposition, one can estimate the Stanley depth of S/I. It is proved that sdepthS(S/I) ≤ sizeS(I). When I is squarefree and bigsizeS(I) ≤ 2, the Stanley conjecture holds for S/I, i.e., sdepthS(S/I) ≥ depthS(S/I).
Effect of chemical and physical factors on germination capacity of reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea L.) seed depending on storage time
Authors: Sekutowski Tomasz R.
Published: January 2015

This paper presents the research results regarding the effect of temperature (-15oC) and sulfuric and gibberellic acids on germination capacity of 1-, 2- and 4-year-old seed of reed canary grass (P. arundinacea). According to the results obtained, the stimulatory and inhibitory effect of the above mentioned factors depended on seed age and the time of seed exposure. A significant increase in germination capacity under the influence of low temperature (-15oC) was recorded only for 2- and 4-year-old seed after 6-hour exposure. However, one-year-old seed showed a significant decrease in germination capacity after 48 hours of freezing. The application of sulfuric acid significantly increased seed germination capacity only in the case of 4-year-old seed, regardless of the time of exposure, while a decrease in germination capacity, also not related to the time of sulfuric acid application, was observed in 1-year-old seed. A significant increase in germination, resulting from seed treatment with gibberellic acid, was recorded for 4-year-old seed subjected to soaking for 12 h and for 2-year-old seed (soaking time 6 h) as well as for 1-year-old seed exposed to this factor for 1h. The inhibitory effect of gibberellic acid was observed in 1-year-old seed affected by this factor for 6h and 12 h as well as for hormone treatment of 2-year-old seed for 1 h and 12 h.
Associations and communities of cereal cultivations of the Łukowska Plain. Part II. Associations of heavy soils
Authors: Rzymowska Zofia , Skrajna Teresa
Published: January 2015

The paper is the second part of the work examining segetal communities of the Łuków Plain. It presents a description of phytocenoses establishing in cereal crops on heavy soils. Only Vicietum tetraspermae were found in these habitats. Neither patches of Consolido-Brometum nor communities representing the alliance Caucalidion lappulae were encountered. Floristic and ecological diversity of Vicietum tetraspermae was due to 8 syntaxonomic units distinguished in the study area: 3 subassociations (Vicietum tetraspermae typicum, V. t odontitetosum and V. t consolidetosum) and 6 variants within Vicietum tertaspermae typicum. Patches of Vicietum tetraspermae typicum were the most frequent in the study area whereas the remaining sub-alliances were much more rare. Of particular interest were species-poor patches of Vicietum tetraspermae typicum dominated by Vicia grandiflora found in the Łuków area which are indicative of the degradation of this alliance.
Effect of plant density on the growth, development and yield of brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea L. var. gemmifera L.)
Authors: Turbin Victor Alekseevich , Sokolov Artem Siergiejevicz , Kosterna Edyta , Rosa Robert
Published: January 2015

Plant density is an important variable for achieving maximum yields and uniform vegetable maturity. Optimal plant density can be achieved by establishing appropriate distances both between the rows as well as in the rows of plants. The experiment was carried out between 2010–2012 at the experimental field of the Crimean Agrotechnological University in Simferopol, Ukraine. The experiment was established as randomised blocks with four replications. This study aimed to determine the effect of plant density on the growth, development and yield of Brussels sprouts. Increasing the area per plant resulted in a shortening of the time to the beginning of head formation, technical maturity and harvest. In all study years, increasing the distance between plants caused an increase in leaf assimilation area, stalk diameter and the number of heads per plant, however, the height of plants was lower. The most favourable parameters characterising marketable yield were found at an area per plant of 0.56 m2, however, the maximum yield from 1 ha (determining the profitability of the cultivation) was found at an area of 0.49 m2 per plant.
Micromorphology and anatomy of flowers and nectaries of Saxifraga stolonifera L.
Authors: Konarska Agata
Published: January 2015

Saxifrages are plants commonly found in all continents. Many of them are adapted to flowering and reproduction under mountainous and rocky conditions. They are pollinated by various groups of insects and have intrastaminal nectaries. The morpho-anatomy of the flowers and nectaries of Saxifraga stolonifera L. was examined using bright-field light and stereoscopic microscopy as well as scanning electron microscopy. The abaxial surface of the sepals has multicellular glandular trichomes containing anthocyanins in the base cells and polyphenols in the secretory cells of the head, whereas visual attractants in the form of color spots are found on the petals. The nectary gland is located at the apex of the ovary and forms a yellow-orange fleshy half-ring. Nectar is secreted through numerous modified stomata. The glandular parenchyma does not have vascular elements. Moreover, orange-brown polyphenols were observed in the nectary cells.
Structures of Heracleum sosnovskii Manden. stem and leaves releasing photodermatosis-causing substances
Authors: Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Chwil Mirosława
Published: January 2015

In its stems and leaves, Heracleum sosnovskii Manden. contains furanocoumarins, which exert a phototoxic effect on humans. The aim of the investigations was to describe the external secretory structures of the epidermis and internal secretory tissues in organs responsible for emission of secretion that is toxic to human skin. The study was conducted using light and fluorescence microscopy. On the stems and leaves, various types of secretory trichomes with dispersed or deposited secretion were found. The trichomes were most abundant on the abaxial leaf surface. Epidermal cells and the secretion present on the trichomes exhibited intense fluorescence, which may indicate the presence of furanocoumarins in the tissue and trichome secretions.
The detection of Plasmodiophora brassicae using loop-mediated isothermal DNA amplification
Authors: Kaczmarek Joanna , Irzykowski Witold , Burzyński Adam , Jędryczka Małgorzata
Published: January 2015

Plasmodiophora brassicae, the cause of clubroot, is a very serious problem preventing from successful and profitable cultivation of oilseed rape in Poland. The pathogen was found in all main growing areas of oilseed rape; it also causes considerable problems in growing of vegetable brassicas. The aim of this work was to elaborate fast, cheap and reliable screening method to detect P. brassicae. To achieve this aim the Loop-mediated isothermal DNA amplification (LAMP) technique has been elaborated. The set of three primer pairs was designed using LAMP software. The detection was performed with the GspSSD polymerase, isolated from bacteria Geobacillus sp., with strand displacement activity. DNA extraction from clubbed roots obtained from farmers’ fields of oilseed rape infected by P. brassicae was done using a modified CTAB method. The reaction was performed for 60 min at 62oC. The visual detection was done using CFX96 Real Time PCR Detection System (BioRad) or Gerie II Amplicatior (Optigen). The detection with LAMP proved its usefulness; it was easy, fast and accurate and independent of plant age. The detection limit was 5 spores per 1 µl of the spore suspension, so LAMP was less sensitive than quantitative PCR tests reported in the literature. However, the method is cheap and simple, so it is a good alternative, when it comes to practical use and the assessment of numerous samples.
Effects of foliar feeding under different soil fertilization conditions on the yield structure and quality of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Chwil Stanisław
Published: January 2015

The aim of the study was to analyse foliar feeding of winter wheat cv. ‘Kobra’ in combination with different soil fertilization treatments with calcium and magnesium compounds. The foliar fertilizers INSOL PK + 5% urea solution and EKOSOL U were applied 3 times during the during the growing season in four soil fertilization treatments: control without fertilization, NPK, NPK + MgSO4 × 7H2O, and NPK + CaO + MgO. The investigations involved a 3-year field experiment established on medium soil with a pH of 4.2 in 1 mole KCl × dm-3 and with the granulometric composition of clayey silt. The soil was characterised by a low content of available phosphorus and potassium as well as a very low content of sulphur and magnesium. The foliar fertilizers applied and the soil fertilization treatments had a varied effect on the yield parameters, the macronutrient content in grain and straw, and the content and quality of gluten. Among the soil fertilization treatments, the best production results and quality parameters of winter wheat were obtained after the application of the dose with magnesium lime. The foliar fertilizers had a greater impact on yield and gluten content than on the mineral composition of winter wheat grain and straw.
Noteworthy records of aphyllophoroid fungi in Finland (Basidiomycota)
Authors: Kunttu Panu , Pennanen Jorma , Kekki Tapio , Kulju Matti , Suominen Mai
Published: January 2015

We present new records of noteworthy aphyllophoroid fungi, mainly polypores and corticioids in Finland. The following 19 rare or infrequently collected species are presented with notes on their substrates: Amylocorticium subsulphureum, Antrodiella parasitica, Ceraceomyces sulphurinus, Clavaria atroumbrina, Clavaria rosea, Gloeophyllum carbonarium, Hyphodontia flavipora, Junghuhnia fimbriatella, Lindtneria chordulata, Odonticium septocystidia, Peniophorella guttulifera, Perenniporia tenuis, Postia immitis, Repetobasidium vile, Resinicium pinicola, Sidera vulgaris, Tomentella coerulea, Trechispora laevis and Xylodon pruni. We also list 41 aphyllophoroid fungi as new to some sections of the boreal vegetation zone in Finland.
New to Poland species of the broadly defined genus Coprinus (Basidiomycota, Agaricomycotina)
Authors: Gierczyk Błażej , Kujawa Anna , Szczepkowski Andrzej
Published: January 2015

The paper presents a list of 19 coprinoid fungi, found in Poland, which have not been reported earlier from this area: Coprinellus bisporiger, C. dilectus, C. heterothrix, C. radicellus, Coprinopsis annulopora, C. bellulus, C. candidolanata, C. cinereofloccosa, C. coniophora, C. goudensis, C. idae, C. iocularis, C. krieglsteineri, C. pachyderma, C. phlyctidospora, C. rugosobispora, C. scobicola, C. spilospora, Coprinus palmeranus. Illustrations and short descriptions of the species, based on the specimens examined and literature data, are given.
Characteristics and diversity of Rhizoctonia spp. population in soil of selected forest bare-root nurseries in Poland
Authors: Bełka Marta , Mańka Małgorzata
Published: January 2015

Fourty three Rhizoctonia isolates obtained from four forest nurseries situated in the Wielkopolska region (central-western Poland) has been proved as multinucleate (anamorph – R. solani). They represented four anastomosis groups (AG): AG1-IC, AG-5, AG4-HG2 and AG2-1. Three AGs were found in Jarocin nursery (AG-5, AG4-HG2 and AG2-1), two in Łopuchówko (AG-5 and AG4-HG2) and one in Konstantynowo (AG1-IC) and Pniewy (AG-5). All isolates were highly pathogenic to Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) seedlings and pose a large damping-off threat to the seedlings in the nurseries with single AG and in those where more AGs exists.
Sampling Phasic Dopamine Signaling with Fast‐Scan Cyclic Voltammetry in Awake, Behaving Rats
Authors: Fortin S.M. , Cone J.J. , Ng‐Evans S. , McCutcheon J.E. , Roitman M.F.
Published: January 2015

Fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) is an electrochemical technique that permits the in vivo measurement of extracellular fluctuations in multiple chemical species. The technique is frequently utilized to sample sub‐second (phasic) concentration changes of the neurotransmitter dopamine in awake and behaving rats. Phasic dopamine signaling is implicated in reinforcement, goal‐directed behavior, and locomotion, and FSCV has been used to investigate how rapid changes in striatal dopamine concentration contribute to these and other behaviors. This unit describes the instrumentation and construction, implantation, and use of components required to sample and analyze dopamine concentration changes in awake rats with FSCV. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Avoidance Behavior: A Free‐Operant Lever‐Press Avoidance Task for the Assessment of the Effects of Safety Signals
Authors: Fernando Anushka B.P. , Mar Adam C. , Urcelay Gonzalo P. , Dickinson Anthony , Robbins Trevor W.
Published: January 2015

This protocol details a free‐operant avoidance paradigm that has been developed to evaluate the relative contribution of different sources of reinforcement of avoidance behavior that may play an important role in the development and maintenance of human anxiety disorders. The task enables the assessment of the effects of safety cues that signal a period free from danger on lever‐press avoidance behavior. Avoidance behavior trained using this protocol has been shown to be sensitive to both behavioral and pharmacological manipulations and has been optimized so that it takes approximately 1 month for rats to perform at high levels of stable avoidance responding. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
BioTAP‐XL: Cross‐linking/Tandem Affinity Purification to Study DNA Targets, RNA, and Protein Components of Chromatin‐Associated Complexes
Authors: Alekseyenko Artyom A. , McElroy Kyle A. , Kang Hyuckjoon , Zee Barry M. , Kharchenko Peter V. , Kuroda Mitzi I.
Published: January 2015

In order to understand how chromatin complexes function in the nucleus, it is important to obtain a comprehensive picture of their protein, DNA, and RNA components, as well as their mutual interactions. This unit presents a chromatin cross‐linking approach (BioTAP‐XL) that utilizes a special BioTAP‐tagged transgenic protein bait along with mass spectrometry to identify protein complex components, and high‐throughput sequencing to identify RNA components and DNA binding sites. Full protocols are provided for Drosophila cells and for human cells in culture, along with an additional protocol for Drosophila embryos as the source material. A key element of the approach in all cases is the generation of control data from input chromatin samples. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Decadal reduction of Chinese agriculture after a regional nuclear war
Authors: Xia Lili , Robock Alan , Mills Michael , Stenke Andrea , Helfand Ira
Published: January 2015

A regional nuclear war between India and Pakistan could decrease global surface temperature by 1°C–2°C for 5–10 years and have major impacts on precipitation and solar radiation reaching Earth's surface. Using a crop simulation model forced by three global climate model simulations, we investigate the impacts on agricultural production in China, the largest grain producer in the world. In the first year after the regional nuclear war, a cooler, drier, and darker environment would reduce annual rice production by 30 megaton (Mt) (29%), maize production by 36 Mt (20%), and wheat production by 23 Mt (53%). With different agriculture management—no irrigation, auto irrigation, 200 kg/ha nitrogen fertilizer, and 10 days delayed planting date—simulated national crop production reduces 16%–26% for rice, 9%–20% for maize, and 32%–43% for wheat during 5 years after the nuclear war event. This reduction of food availability would continue, with gradually decreasing amplitude, for more than a decade. Assuming these impacts are indicative of those in other major grain producers, a nuclear war using much less than 1% of the current global arsenal could produce a global food crisis and put a billion people at risk of famine.
Kleine–Levin syndrome in 120 patients: Differential diagnosis and long episodes
Authors: Lavault Sophie , Golmard Jean‐Louis , Groos Elisabeth , Brion Agnès , Dauvilliers Yves , Lecendreux Michel , Franco Patricia , Arnulf Isabelle
Published: January 2015

Objective

Kleine–Levin syndrome is a rare disease characterized by recurrent episodes of hypersomnia with behavioral and cognitive disturbances. We aimed at describing the diagnosis procedure, risk factors, and severe forms.

Methods

In consecutive patients referred for suspected Kleine–Levin syndrome, we detailed differential diagnoses, and atypical and secondary cases, compared typical patients with healthy subjects, and examined the characteristics of patients with prolonged (>30 days) episodes.

Results

Among 166 referred patients, 120 had typical primary Kleine–Levin syndrome (syndrome secondary to brain diseases; n = 4, atypical syndrome, n = 7; differential diagnoses that were mostly psychiatric, n = 29; incomplete information, n = 6). The prevalence in France was 1.8 per million. The patients were often male (64%) and had more frequent birth and developmental abnormalities (45%) than controls (despite normal karyotypes), and most (80%) had teenage onset, with no difference between patients with prolonged (n = 34) and short (n = 85) episodes. In patients with prolonged episodes, the durations of the first episode (32 ± 33 vs 11 ± 6 days) and subsequent episodes were longer (mean episode duration = 23 ± 19 vs 10 ± 3 days) and the disease course tended to be longer (9 ± 6 vs 6 ± 4 years). During episodes, patients with prolonged episodes had shorter sleep time, higher levels of anxiety, increased agitation, and more feelings of disembodiment and amnesia. Between episodes, they were more tired, needed more naps, fell asleep more rapidly, and had higher anxiety/depression scores.

Interpretation

Mental disorders are frequent differential diagnoses of Kleine–Levin syndrome. One‐third of patients have prolonged (>1 month) episodes with more frequent immediate and long‐term consequences of the disease, prompting therapeutic trials. Ann Neurol 2015. Ann Neurol 2015;77:529–540
Isolation, characterization, and optimization of an aerobic butanol‐producing bacterium from Singapore
Authors: Ng Cheng Ying Chloe , Takahashi Katsuyuki , Liu Zhibin
Published: January 2015

We aimed to isolate aerobic butanol‐producing microorganisms from environmental samples as potential platform strains for butanol production. Soil samples collected were subjected to a semi‐high‐throughput screening strategy. A microorganism capable of producing butanol in high concentrations under aerobic conditions was isolated and identified as Bacillus species by 16S rDNA analysis. The growth and butanol production under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions of the isolated Bacillus sp. 15, together with a different composition of by‐products, suggest different metabolic networks from the obligate anaerobes Clostridia. At 1 L scale fermentation with 0.2 L/Min of ariflow, butanol titer reached up to 10.38 g/L in a batch culture. The fermentation process of the isolate also occurred in two phases and the acidic condition is critical for butanol production. The butanol concentration was further improved to 12.3 g/L with minimized by‐products using a microaerobic condition. With the above‐mentioned distinct features, the isolated Bacillus sp. 15 is a suitable platform strain for further process development and metabolic engineering for butanol production.
Dopamine D1 receptor blockade impairs alcohol seeking without reducing dorsal striatal activation to cues of alcohol availability
Authors: Fanelli Rebecca R. , Robinson Donita L.
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Alcohol‐associated cues activate both ventral and dorsal striatum in functional brain imaging studies of heavy drinkers. In rodents, alcohol‐associated cues induce changes in neuronal firing frequencies and increase dopamine release in ventral striatum, but the impact of alcohol‐associated cues on neuronal activity in dorsal striatum is unclear. We previously reported phasic changes in action potential frequency in the dorsomedial and dorsolateral striatum after cues that signaled alcohol availability, prompting approach behavior.

Methods

We investigated the hypothesis that dopamine transmission modulates these phasic firing changes. Rats were trained to self‐administer alcohol, and neuronal activity was monitored with extracellular electrophysiology during “anticipatory” cues that signaled the start of the operant session. Sessions were preceded by systemic administration of the D1‐type dopamine receptor antagonist SCH23390 (0, 10, and 20 μg/kg).

Results

SCH23390 significantly decreased firing rates during the 60 s prior to cue onset without reducing phasic excitations immediately following the cues. While neuronal activation to cues might be expected to initiate behavioral responses, in this study alcohol seeking was reduced despite the presence of dorsal striatal excitations to alcohol cues.

Conclusions

These data suggest that D1 receptor antagonism reduces basal firing rates in the dorsal striatum and modulates the ability of neuronal activation to “anticipatory” cues to initiate alcohol seeking in rats with an extensive history of alcohol self‐administration.
Characterization of equine urinary metabolites of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) S1, S4 and S22 for doping control purposes
Authors: Hansson Annelie , Knych Heather , Stanley Scott , Thevis Mario , Bondesson Ulf , Hedeland Mikael
Published: January 2015

Selective androgen receptor modulators, SARMs, constitute a class of compounds with anabolic properties but with few androgenic side‐effects. This makes them possible substances of abuse and the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) has banned the entire class of substances. There have been several cases of illicit use of aryl propionamide SARMs in human sports and in 2013, 13 cases were reported. These substances have been found to be extensively metabolized in humans, making detection of metabolites necessary for doping control. SARMs are also of great interest to equine doping control, but the in vivo metabolite pattern and thus possible analytical targets have not been previously studied in this species. In this study, the urinary metabolites of the SARMs S1, S4, and S22 in horses were studied after intravenous injection, using ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐QToF‐MS). Eight different metabolites were found for SARM S1, nine for SARM S4, and seven for SARM S22. The equine urinary metabolite profiles differed significantly from those of humans. The parent compounds were only detected for SARMs S4 and S22 and only at the first sampling time point at 3 h post administration, making them unsuitable as target compounds. For all three SARMs tested, the metabolite yielding the highest response had undergone amide hydrolysis, hydroxylation and sulfonation. The resulting phase II metabolites (4‐nitro‐3‐trifluoro‐methyl‐phenylamine sulfate for SARMs S1 and S4 and 4‐cyano‐3‐trifluoro‐methyl‐phenylamine sulfate for SARM S22) are proposed as analytical targets for use in equine doping control. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Value of information in natural resource management: technical developments and application to pink‐footed geese
Authors: Williams Byron K. , Johnson Fred A.
Published: January 2015

The “value of information” (VOI) is a generic term for the increase in value resulting from better information to guide management, or alternatively, the value foregone under uncertainty about the impacts of management (Yokota and Thompson, Medical Decision Making 2004; 24: 287). The value of information can be characterized in terms of several metrics, including the expected value of perfect information and the expected value of partial information. We extend the technical framework for the value of information by further developing the relationship between value metrics for partial and perfect information and describing patterns of their performance. We use two different expressions for the expected value of partial information to highlight its relationship to the expected value of perfect information. We also develop the expected value of partial information for hierarchical uncertainties. We highlight patterns in the value of information for the Svalbard population of the pink‐footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus), a population that is subject to uncertainty in both reproduction and survival functions. The framework for valuing information is seen as having widespread potential in resource decision making, and serves as a motivation for resource monitoring, assessment, and collaboration.
A Strategy for the Design of the LCR Filter in a Series Voltage Compensator
Authors: Nakata Atsushi , Nozaki Masahiro , Torii Akihiro , Ueda Akiteru
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we propose a strategy for the design of the LCR filter in a series voltage compensator and investigate our method by performing simulations and experiments. In the proposed method, first, the inductance is derived from the ratio of the maximum amplitude of the ripple current to the amplitude of the fundamental current, which is denoted as . Second, the capacitance is derived from the ratio of the ripple voltage to the fundamental voltage. Third, the resistance R is determined from the rate of decrease of the carrier frequency component and the settling time.
Improved Inspection of Facilities for High‐Voltage Class Using Data Mining
Authors: Nishimura Kazunori , Maehata Yasushi , Sunayama Wataru
Published: January 2015

The inspection of power supply facilities can now be conducted with high accuracy using remote monitoring technology. In contrast, it is difficult to install sensors at demand facilities because their scale and installation environment differ among customers. As a result, the demand facilities are inspected at fixed time intervals. In this paper, we propose condition‐based maintenance (CBM), which improves maintenance quality at demand facilities. The proposed method was developed using maintenance data from demand facilities, collected using time‐based maintenance, and we conduct the analysis primarily using failure data. We use data mining to analyze transaction data that we modeled on the basis of the maintenance data and to construct a “failure predictive model” that can predict the failure of facilities and its causes from the results of the analysis. By using the constructed model, we will be able to identify the objects requiring maintenance which may most likely lead to failures in the future, and this study can contribute to improvement of maintenance technologies for demand facilities using the proposed CBM.
Synthesis of [c]‐Fused Bicyclic Proline Analogues
Authors: Calaza M. Isabel , Sayago Francisco J. , Laborda Pedro , Cativiela Carlos
Published: January 2015

An overview of synthetic methods developed to build [c]‐fused bicyclic proline analogues is presented. The focus is on the preparation of azabicycles that bear a carbocyclic ring fused to the [c] face of the pyrrolidine unit. Attention is paid both to procedures that afford the desired compounds in racemic form and to asymmetric strategies. Procedures are organized according to the size of the carbocycle that is fused to the pyrrolidine moiety. Strategies able to provide multigram quantities of enantiopure compounds that have application in the synthesis of marketed drugs are highlighted.
Substrate Evaluation of Rhodococcus erythropolis SET1, a Nitrile Hydrolysing Bacterium, Demonstrating Dual Activity Strongly Dependent on Nitrile Sub‐Structure
Authors: Coady Tracey M. , Coffey Lee V. , O'Reilly Catherine , Lennon Claire M.
Published: January 2015

Assessment of Rhodococcus erythropolis SET1, a novel nitrile hydrolysing bacterial isolate, has been undertaken with 34 nitriles, 33 chiral and 1 prochiral. These substrates consist primarily of β‐hydroxy nitriles with varying alkyl and aryl groups at the β position and containing in several compounds different substituents α to the nitrile. In the case of β‐hydroxy nitriles without substitution at the α position, acids were the major products obtained, along with recovered nitrile after biotransformation, as a result of suspected nitrilase activity of the isolate. Unexpectedly, amides were found to be the major hydrolysis product when the β‐hydroxy nitriles possessed a vinyl group at this position. To probe this behaviour further, additional related substrates were evaluated containing electron‐withdrawing groups at the α position, and amide was also observed upon biotransformation in the presence of SET1. Therefore this novel isolate has also demonstrated NHase activity with nitriles that appears to be substrate‐dependent.
An Extension of the J‐Test to a Spatial Panel Data Framework
Authors: Kelejian Harry H. , Piras Gianfranco
Published: January 2015

Kelejian (Letters in Spatial and Resources Sciences; 1: 3–11) extended the J‐test procedure to a spatial framework. Although his suggested test was computationally simple and intuitive, it did not use the available information in an efficient manner. Kelejian and Piras (Regional Science and Urban Economics; 41: 281–292) generalized and modified Kelejian's test to account for all the available information. However, neither Kelejian () nor Kelejian & Piras () considered a panel data framework. In this paper we generalize these earlier works to a panel data framework with fixed effects and additional endogenous variables. We give theoretical as well as Monte Carlo results relating to our suggested tests. An empirical application on a crime model for North Carolina is also estimated. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can chemoradiation allow for omission of lateral pelvic node dissection for locally advanced rectal cancer?
Authors: Kim Min Ju , Kim Tae Hyun , Kim Dae Yong , Kim Sun Young , Baek Ji Yeon , Chang Hee Jin , Park Sung Chan , Park Ji Won , Oh Jae Hwan
Published: January 2015

Objectives

We evaluated the relationship between pretreatment clinical parameters and lateral pelvic node (LPN) recurrence in patients with rectal cancer treated with a combination of curative resection and chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and attempted to identify the patients who might benefit from LPN dissection.

Methods

This study involved 900 patients between June 2001 and June 2009. Pretreatment clinical parameters including radiological size of LPN were analyzed to identify risk factors associated with long‐term outcomes.

Results

Locoregional recurrence developed in 65 patients (7.2%); 42 (64.6%) had LPN recurrence, 20 (47.6%) of which had no distant metastasis. Multivariate analysis showed that LPN short‐axis diameter (<5, 5–<10, and ≥10 mm) was significantly associated with LPN recurrence‐free survival (5‐year survival rate (5YSR), 98.2, 91.7, and 40.1%, respectively, P < 0.05), locoregional recurrence‐free survival (5YSR, 95.5, 87.6, and 40.1%, respectively, P < 0.05), relapse‐free survival (5YSR, 76.8, 72.5, and 30.3, respectively, P < 0.05), and overall survival (5YSR, 86.3, 83.0, and 57.5%, respectively, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with an LPN short‐axis diameter ≥10 mm represent a potential subgroup at a high risk of LPN recurrence, even after CRT. Further study is needed to confirm whether LPN dissection is beneficial for these patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:459–464. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The quality‐of‐life benefits of breast reconstruction do not diminish with age
Authors: Sisco Mark , Johnson Donald B. , Wang Chihsiung , Rasinski Kenneth , Rundell Veronica L. , Yao Katharine A.
Published: January 2015

Background and Objectives

Older women rarely receive post‐mastectomy breast reconstruction (PMBR). While there is a perception that PMBR is less beneficial in this age group, quality‐of‐life (QOL) data related to PMBR in older women remain scarce.

Methods

Women with AJCC stage 0‐III breast cancer who underwent a mastectomy were surveyed. Respondents included 215 older women (≥65 years), of whom 36.0% received PMBR, and a control group of 101 younger women (<65 years), all of whom received PMBR. Patient‐reported outcomes were measured using the Duke Health Profile and the BREAST‐Q.

Results

The survey response rate was 74.9%. An age‐matched comparison of older women with and without PMBR revealed no significant differences in physical health, anxiety, or depression scores; however, PMBR was associated with greater breast satisfaction (P = 0.002) and greater breast‐related psychosocial well‐being (P= 0.02) than mastectomy alone. Among those who received PMBR, there was no correlation between age and breast satisfaction, psychosocial well‐being, nor satisfaction with the outcome (P = 0.11, 0.21, and 0.56).

Conclusions

Older women who undergo PMBR have better breast‐related QOL outcomes than those who do not. Moreover, the outcomes of PMBR in older women are similar to those seen in younger women. When appropriate, older women should be encouraged to consider PMBR. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:663–668. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel affinity monolithic column modified with cuprous sulfide nanoparticles for the selective enrichment of low‐molecular‐weight electron‐rich analytes
Authors: Shan Yuanhong , Shi Xianzhe , Xu Guowang
Published: January 2015

A novel monolithic column modified with cuprous sulfide nanoparticles was developed and its affinity characteristics towards low‐molecular‐weight electron‐rich analytes were investigated. In the synthesis process, home‐made cuprous oxide nanocubes were immobilized on the surface of monolithic skeleton with the moderate thickness based on the strong interaction between imidazole groups and cuprous oxide, then the cuprous oxide layer was transformed into the more stable cuprous sulfide layer through the treatment by sodium sulfide. The resulting cuprous sulfide modified monolithic column presented good permeability and stability in a wide pH range from 2 to 10. Two kinds of typical electron‐rich analytes, kanamycin A and purine, were chosen to assess its affinity characteristics. Compared with the commercial Cu2+‐ and Ni2+‐based affinity sorbents, a larger binding capacity of cuprous sulfide modified column toward kanamycin A was obtained under basic condition and the recovery of kanamycin A in a milk sample was over 70%. Moreover, the binding capacity of cuprous sulfide modified column for purine was up to 5.57 mg/mL in frontal elution mode. These results suggested that the Cu2S column has a promising application for the enrichment of electron‐rich analytes.
Wer wie sequenziert
Authors: Hachmann Anne
Published: January 2015

Der Gerätehersteller Illumina dominiert das Geschäft mit DNA‐Sequenzierern. Doch neue Techniken der dritten Generation und damit auch neue Anbieter rücken nach. Sie versprechen genauere, schnellere oder kostengünstigere Ergebnisse.
Das unermüdliche Maxwell‐Rad
Authors: Ucke Christian , Schlichting Hans Joachim
Published: January 2015

Das Maxwellsche Rad ist als ein klassisches Experiment zur Erhaltung der mechanischen Energie bekannt. Statt des technisch optimierten zylinderförmigen Rades mit großem Trägheitsmoment kann man beispielsweise auch Tierfiguren als Drehkörper nehmen. Darüber hinaus kann man das Rad mit einer magnetischen Achse an senkrecht aufgebauten Eisenstangen hinunter und hinauf laufen lassen. Eine konische Form der Achsenenden erbringt zusätzlich eine Selbststabilisierung des Drehrades zwischen den Achsen.
Neutrinos – die Akte X der Teilchenphysik
Authors: Zuber Kai
Published: January 2015

Die Neutrinophysik hat in den letzten beiden Jahrzehnten großartige Fortschritte gemacht. Als herausragende Errungenschaft gilt der Nachweis, dass Neutrinos eine von Null verschiedene Ruhemasse haben. Diese Erkenntnis ist Oszillationsexperimenten zu verdanken. In diesem Zusammenhang wurde auch das Problem der fehlenden Sonnenneutrinos gelöst. Mittlerweile sind auch die Differenzen der Massenquadrate und die drei Mischungswinkel der Neutrino‐Flavors bekannt. Trotzdem sind noch fundamentale Fragen offen: Was ist die absolute Masse der Neutrinos? In welcher Form sind die Neutrinozustände angeordnet, gibt es also eine Hierarchie und wie sähe diese aus? Welchen Wert hat die komplexe Phase in der Mischungsmatrix? Diese Phase könnte zu einer CP‐Verletzung im Bereich der Leptonen führen und unter Umständen für die Baryonen‐Asymmetrie im Universum mitverantwortlich sein.
SESAME – die Erfüllung eines Traumes
Authors: Huttel Erhard
Published: January 2015

SESAME, das erste Internationale Forschungszentrum im Nahen Osten, hat auf dem Weg zur Realisierung einen weiteren Meilenstein erreicht. Nachdem das Mikrotron bereits 2012 in Betrieb genommen wurde, lief kürzlich auch das Booster‐Synchrotron erfolgreich an und hat seine Maximalenergie erreicht. Dieser schöne Erfolg wurde von einem jungen Team von Wissenschaftlern der Region erzielt.
Known susceptibility SNPs for sporadic prostate cancer show a similar association with “hereditary” prostate cancer
Authors: Cremers Ruben G. , Galesloot Tessel E. , Aben Katja K. , van Oort Inge M. , Vasen Hans F. , Vermeulen Sita H. , Kiemeney Lambertus A.
Published: January 2015

Background

More than 70 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported to be associated with prostate cancer (PC) risk; these were mainly identified in the general population with predominantly sporadic PC (SPC). Previous studies have suggested similar associations between a selection of these SNPs and hereditary PC (HPC). Our aim was to evaluate the effect of all known PC risk SNPs and their discriminative value for SPC and HPC.

Methods

Seventy‐four PC susceptibility SNPs (reported in literature up to June 2014) were genotyped in a population‐based series of 620 SPC patients, 312 HPC patients from the national Dutch registry and 1819 population‐based referents. Association analyses were performed using logistic regression, focusing on directional consistency of the odds ratios (ORs) with those in the original reports, that is, whether the OR was in the same direction as in the original report. Discriminative performance was evaluated by a genetic risk score used in logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses.

Results

Directional consistency was seen for 62 SNPs in SPC and 64 SNPs in HPC, 56 of which overlapped. ORs were mostly higher for HPC with 22 ORs >1.25 versus 5 for SPC. Discriminative performance was better for HPC with an area under the ROC curve of 0.73 versus 0.64 for SPC.

Conclusions

A large overlap was found for the associations between low‐penetrance susceptibility SNPs and SPC and HPC, suggesting a similarity in genetic etiology. This warrants a reconsideration of “HPC” and a restrictive policy toward prostate‐specific antigen testing in men with a positive family history. Genetic risk scores might be used for PC risk stratification on the population level. Prostate 75: 474–483, 2015 © 2014 The Authors. The Prostate published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Divergent effect of liver X receptor agonists on prostate‐specific antigen expression is dependent on androgen receptor in prostate carcinoma cells
Authors: Tsui Ke‐Hung , Chung Li‐Chuan , Feng Tsui‐Hsia , Lee Tzu‐Yi , Chang Phei‐Lang , Chen Wen‐Tsung , Juang Horng‐Heng
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Liver X receptor (LXR) isoforms, LXRα and LXRβ, have similar protein structures and ligands, but diverse tissue distribution. We used two synthetic, non‐steroidal LXR agonists, T0901317 and GW3965, to investigate the effects of LXR agonist modulation on prostate specific antigen (PSA) via the expressions of androgen receptors (AR), LXRα, or LXRβ, in prostate carcinoma cells.

METHODS

LXRα‐ or LXRβ‐knockdown cells were transduced with specific shRNA lentiviral particles. LXRα and LXRβ expressions were assessed by immunoblotting and RT‐qPCR assays. Cell proliferation was determined by 3H‐thymidine incorporation assays. The effects of LXR agonists and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on PSA expression were determined by ELISA, immunoblotting, or transient gene expression assays.

RESULTS

Treatment with either T0901317 or GW3965 significantly attenuated cell proliferation of LNCaP cells. T0901317 treatment suppressed PSA expression while GW3965 treatment enhanced PSA expression. The increase of PSA promoter activity by GW3965 was dependent on the expression of AR. Either LXRα‐ or LXRβ‐knockdown did not affect the activation of androgen on PSA gene expression. However, as compared with mock knockdown‐LNCaP cells, the LXRα‐knockdown but not the LXRβ‐knockdown attenuated the effects of T0901317 and GW3965 on PSA expressions. The effect of GW3965 on PSA expression was blocked by the addition of EGCG.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that T0901317 and GW3965 have divergent effects on PSA expressions. The effects of LXR agonists on PSA expression are LXRα‐dependent and AR‐dependent. EGCG blocks the inducing effect of GW3965 on PSA expression. Prostate 75: 603–615, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Establishing prostate cancer patient derived xenografts: Lessons learned from older studies
Authors: Russell Pamela J. , Russell Peter , Rudduck Christina , Tse Brian W‐C , Williams Elizabeth D. , Raghavan Derek
Published: January 2015

Background

Understanding the progression of prostate cancer to androgen‐independence/castrate resistance and development of preclinical testing models are important for developing new prostate cancer therapies. This report describes studies performed 30 years ago, which demonstrate utility and shortfalls of xenografting to preclinical modeling.

Methods

We subcutaneously implanted male nude mice with small prostate cancer fragments from transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) from 29 patients. Successful xenografts were passaged into new host mice. They were characterized using histology, immunohistochemistry for marker expression, flow cytometry for ploidy status, and in some cases by electron microscopy and response to testosterone. Two xenografts were karyotyped by G‐banding.

Results

Tissues from 3/29 donors (10%) gave rise to xenografts that were successfully serially passaged in vivo. Two, (UCRU‐PR‐1, which subsequently was replaced by a mouse fibrosarcoma, and UCRU‐PR‐2, which combined epithelial and neuroendocrine features) have been described. UCRU‐PR‐4 line was a poorly differentiated prostatic adenocarcinoma derived from a patient who had undergone estrogen therapy and bilateral castration after his cancer relapsed. Histologically, this comprised diffusely infiltrating small acinar cell carcinoma with more solid aggregates of poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. The xenografted line showed histology consistent with a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma and stained positively for prostatic acid phosphatase (PAcP), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and the cytokeratin cocktail, CAM5.2, with weak staining for prostate specific antigen (PSA). The line failed to grow in female nude mice. Castration of three male nude mice after xenograft establishment resulted in cessation of growth in one, growth regression in another and transient growth in another, suggesting that some cells had retained androgen sensitivity. The karyotype (from passage 1) was 43–46, XY, dic(1;12)(p11;p11), der(3)t(3:?5)(q13;q13), ‐5, inv(7)(p15q35) x2, +add(7)(p13), add(8)(p22), add(11)(p14), add(13)(p11), add(20)(p12), ‐22, +r4[cp8].

Conclusions

Xenografts provide a clinically relevant model of prostate cancer, although establishing serially transplantable prostate cancer patient derived xenografts is challenging and requires rigorous characterization and high quality starting material. Xenografting from advanced prostate cancer is more likely to succeed, as xenografting from well differentiated, localized disease has not been achieved in our experience. Strong translational correlations can be demonstrated between the clinical disease state and the xenograft model. Prostate 75: 628–636, 2015. © The Authors. The Prostate published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.