bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allelopathic effect of preparations of Betula pendula Roth., Chamomilla recutita L. and Urtica dioica L. on the initial growth of Hordeum vulgare L.
Authors: Dziamski Andrzej , Stypczyńska Zofia
Published: April 2015

The experiment investigated the effect of preparations of Betula pendula, Chamomilla recutita, and Urtica dioica on the initial growth of Hordeum vulgare under laboratory conditions. The experiment involved a water solution of sap from the trunk of B. pendula, an infusion from Ch. recutita, extracts from leaves and rhizomes as well as macerated herbage of U. dioica, at the concentrations of 2.5%; 5%; 10% and 20%. During the first four days of the growth of the test plants, the plant preparations tested had a stimulatory effect on the length of leaves and roots in all the cases. The leaf increases were greater than those of the roots and became smaller with an increase in the concentration of the preparations. Continued watering of H. vulgare seedlings resulted in a further increase in leaf length after the application of U. dioica macerate and Ch. recutita infusion, with a simultaneous increase in root length with the macerate of U. dioica and B. pendula sap used at the concentrations of 2.5–10%. The other extracts made from U. dioica leaves and roots, irrespective of the concentration applied, strongly reduced the increase in leaves and roots from 11 to 27%. The weight of roots and leaves in H. vulgare, over the entire range of the concentrations applied and irrespective of the duration of the experiment, was stimulated only by B. pendula sap. The extracts from Ch. recutita and U. dioica, especially the leaf and root extracts, significantly reduced the root weight of the test plant.
Assessment of the floristic composition of sward grazed by various animal species
Authors: Czarnecki Zbigniew , Wyłupek Teresa Grażyna , Harkot Wanda
Published: April 2015

The study objective was to assess the floristic composition of pastures for wild animals (fallow deer, Manchurian deer and mouflons) at Przytoczno, pastures for horses at Białka, and cow pastures belonging to the Land Community in Tarnogóra. We analyzed the floristic composition of the pastures under study in the growing seasons of 2011 and 2012, carried out 32 phytosociological relevés in the wild animal pastures, 32 in the horse pastures, and 38 in the cow pastures, using the Braun-Blanquet method. We determined the species diversity of the pastures based on the percentage share of species from the botanical families distinguished, the total number of species, and the Shannon–Wiener and Simpson diversity index. Our floristic surveys indicated that the greatest species diversity occurred in the horse pastures, while it was lower in the wild animal and cow pastures. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index for the sward of the pastures grazed by horses was higher (H' = 5.04) than for those grazed by wild animals (H' = 4.32) and cows (H' = 3.53). The Simpson index of species diversity in a community was higher for the pastures grazed by horses (S = 0.96) than for those grazed by wild animals (S = 0.95) and cows (S = 0.90).
A Long-Term Care—Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (LTC-CGA) Tool: Improving Care for Frail Older Adults?
Authors: Marshall Emily G. , Clarke Barry S. , Varatharasan Nirupa , Andrew Melissa K.
Published: April 2015

BackgroundMost older adults living in long-term care facilities (LTCF) are frail and have complex care needs. Holistic understanding of residents’ health status is key to providing good care. Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is a valid assessment method which aims to embrace complexity. Here we aimed to study a CGA that has been modified for use in long-term care (the LTC-CGA) and to investigate its acceptability and usefulness to stakeholders and users.MethodsThis mixed methods study, conducted in 10 LTCFs in Halifax, Nova Scotia, reviewed 598 resident charts from pre- and postimplementation of the LTC-CGA. Qualitative methods explored stakeholder perspectives (physicians, nurses, paramedics, administrators, residents and families) though focus groups.ResultsThe LTC-CGA was present in 78% of LTCF charts in the post -implementation, period though it did not appear in acute care charts of transferred residents, despite the intention that it accompany residents between care sites. Some items had suboptimal completion rates (e.g., Advance Directives at 56.4%), though these were located in other sections of the LTCF chart (98.2%). Nevertheless, qualitative findings suggest the LTC-CGA describes a clinical baseline health status which enabled timely and informed clinical decision-making.ConclusionsThe LTC-CGA is a useful resource whose full capacity may not yet have been realized.
A Practical Approach to Osteoporosis Management in the Geriatric Population
Authors: Liberman Dan , Cheung Angela
Published: April 2015

Osteoporosis is a medical condition that is seen commonly in elderly patients, and it is associated with a large burden of morbidity and mortality. This article provides a practical approach to the workup and management of osteoporosis in patients 65 years or older.
Humanities and Geriatric Education: a Strategy for Recruitment?
Authors: Frank Christopher , Martin Ruth Elwood
Published: April 2015

Ageing is a common subject in arts and literature as it is a universal experience. The use of the humanities in medical education may have a positive effect on trainees’ attitude to caring for seniors and on geriatrics as a career choice. This paper summarizes the role of humanities in medical education and provides some examples and thoughts on how humanities curriculum can be used in geriatric teaching.
The Development and Implementation of a Decision-Making Capacity Assessment Model
Authors: Parmar Jasneet , Bremault-Phillips Suzette , Charles Lesley
Published: April 2015

BackgroundDecision-making capacity assessment (DMCA) is an issue of increasing importance for older adults. Current challenges need to be explored, and potential processes and strategies considered in order to address issues of DMCA in a more coordinated manner.MethodsAn iterative process was used to address issues related to DMCA. This began with recognition of challenges associated with capacity assessments (CAs) by staff at Covenant Health (CH). Review of the literature, as well as discussions with and a survey of staff at three CH sites, resulted in determination of issues related to DMCA. Development of a DMCA Model and demonstration of its feasibility followed.ResultsA process was proposed with front-end screening/problemsolving, a well-defined standard assessment, and definition of team member roles. A Capacity Assessment Care Map was formulated based on the process. Documentation was developed consisting of a Capacity Assessment Process Worksheet, Capacity Interview Worksheet, and a brochure. Interactive workshops were delivered to familiarize staff with the DMCA Model. A successful demonstration project led to implementation across all sites in the Capital Health region, and eventual provincial endorsement.ConclusionsConcerns identified in the survey and in the literature regarding CA were addressed through the holistic interdisciplinary approach offered by the DMCA Model.
Capacity Assessment, Successful Aging and Geriatric Humanities
Authors: Madden Kenneth M.
Published: April 2015

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Human Health Biotechnology: Can Brazil Advance?
Authors: Torres Freire Carlos , Callil Victor , Golgher Denise
Published: April 2015

The Brazilian human health biotechnology sector was analyzed according to its spacial and sectorial distribution of the following aspects: (i) the scientific production; (ii) dependence of companies on governmental funding for research and development; (iii) the lack of innovative capacity regarding the discovery and development of new drugs and (iv) a disconnection between the advancement of scientific output and innovation within the private sector. The picture depicted suggests that, despite the advances being made in science and technology, it is still necessary to overcome many weaknesses to achieve an economic growth based on knowledge and innovation.
Importance of venture capital investors for the industrial biotechnology industry
Authors: Festel Gunter , Rammer Christian
Published: April 2015

As in the medical biotechnology area some decades ago, the fast technological development within industrial biotechnology (IB) has caused numerous new ventures. Venture capital (VC) has become a major capital source for these companies and VC investors have particularly allocated financing to research and development (R&D) based companies. Since the early 2000s, the global net stock of VC investments in IB companies has continuously increased over the past 12 years and exceeded 3.5 billion US dollars at the end of 2013. In 2013, the gross amount of VC money was 386 million US dollars distributed to 20 companies corresponding to an average amount of 19.3 million US dollars for each company. The rising capital contribution into the IB sector indicates that it is seen as an attractive investment opportunity for VC investors. Analysing the VC investments by segments shows that there is a strong preference for biofuels and biochemicals. The regional breakdown of VC activities shows that the Americas are the leading region followed by Europe.
Improper Handling of Harmful Chemicals by Small Tea Growers of Assam: Challenge to Heath and Local Environment
Authors: Gogoi Dhrubajyoti , Yadav Abhishek Kumar , Gogoi Madhurjya , Borah Debajit
Published: April 2015

After dominating the world tea market since last 170 years, today India became the fourth largest tea exporter. The state Assam, located in the Northeastern end of the country contributes almost 50% of the Indiaâ€™s total tea production and Small tea growers of Assam (STGs) produces around 30% of its total annual production and contributes almost 12% of Indiaâ€™s annual production. Though the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers by the STGs of Assam is still not recognized and controversial in the state, but it is observed that STGs of Assam hardly follows standard scientific techniques for handling such chemicals. Therefore, maintenance of sound health of STGs and environmental safety is a necessary issue. But, till date no such awareness program was found to be initiated scientifically to teach them about those safety measures. Therefore, there is a great need for immediate implementation of such kind of scientific solutions, basically for storing (micro level) of these harmful chemicals and also for grass root level safety campaign by scientific communities of India including other competent Agencies.Â
Metas y Compromiso de los opositores al cuerpo de maestros en la especialidad de Educación Primaria
Authors: Suárez Riveiro José Manuel , Rubio Sánchez Verónica , Antúnez Horcajo Raúl , Fernández Suárez Ana Patricia
Published: April 2015

Este artículo tiene como finalidad avanzar en el conocimiento de las metas respecto a la función docente y del compromiso con la tarea, desde el punto de vista de un colectivo muy escasamente estudiado como es el de los opositores al cuerpo de maestros, futuros docentes del sistema educativo público.

La muestra está formada por opositores al cuerpo de maestros en la especialidad de Educación Primaria y sobre ellos estudiaremos los temas anteriormente indicados. Los resultados obtenidos mediante el empleo de dos cuestionarios ofrecen información, en primer lugar, sobre la validación de dichos cuestionarios. Posteriormente, se ofrece información sobre las metas de los opositores y sobre su nivel de compromiso. A continuación, se comprueba la relación entre las variables anteriormente referidas, así como la existencia de diferencias en función del género, de la experiencia docente o del número de oposiciones a las que se han presentado los participantes.
Análisis del uso de estrategias de recuperación de la información por alumnos con alta capacidad intelectual (9-14 años) en función del género, edad, nivel educativo y creatividad
Authors: Marugan de Miguelsanz Montserrat , Carbonero Miguel Ángel , León Benito , Galán Manue
Published: April 2015

En este trabajo se estudian las relaciones entre alta dotación intelectual y estrategias de recuperación de información, atendiendo a las influencias del género, la edad, el nivel educativo y la creatividad. Se evalúan las estrategias con las Escalas ACRA (Román y Gallego, 1994); la inteligencia general con el Test de Factor “g” (Cattell y Cattell, 1990) y el Test de Matrices Progresivas (Raven, 1996) y la creatividad con el Test de Abreacción (TAEC) (De la Torre, 1991). Se utiliza una muestra de alumnos de alta dotación intelectual de Educación Primaria y Secundaria (9-14 años).
Los resultados no muestran relaciones significativas entre las variables inteligencia general y estrategias de recuperación de la información. La edad modula de forma limitada su uso y la asociación entre alta dotación y alta creatividad solo favorece la utilización de las estrategias de Respuesta Escrita. Se propone una revisión de las evaluaciones de uso percibido, frente a las de uso real.
 
Descripción de procesos en la composición escrita de estudiantes universitarios para un desarrollo multilingüe y tecnológico.
Authors: González Rosario Arroyo
Published: April 2015

La finalidad de esta investigación es describir, los procesos cognitivos-lingüísticos, metacognitivo-afectivos y socioculturales implicados en la composición escrita de estudiantes universitarios. Procesos que de forma universal son aplicados por lo escritores expertos en cualquier lengua, por esto se pueden considerar procesos de desarrollo escritor multilingüe. Además estos procesos son básicos en el uso de la comunicación tecnológica. Para lograr ese fin se aplica un diseño metodológico cualitativo, en el que se aplica una entrevista cognitiva escrita a una muestra de 86 estudiantes universitarios. El método de Análisis de Contenido permite aplicar un sistema de categorías que define operativamente los procesos escritores expresados por los estudiantes. En base al recuento de frecuencias se destaca que los estudiantes universitarios analizados muestran cierto nivel de competencia procedimental, afectiva y sociocultural de la escritura, y se evidencia la necesidad de diseñar programas para lograr un uso profesional y científico de la misma, que insista en procesos condicionales.
Las competencias emocionales en el ámbito afectivo-sexual de los adolescentes autóctonos e inmigrantes
Authors: Soriano Ayala Encarnación , González Jiménez Antonio José
Published: April 2015

Esta investigación llevada a cabo con adolescentes españoles e hijos de familias inmigrantes, pretende identificar las competencias emocionales que emplean los adolescentes para resolver situaciones conflictivas que se presentan en las relaciones afectivas-sexuales. Para esta finalidad nos apoyamos en la investigación etnográfica. La muestra ha estado formada por 80 jóvenes de ocho nacionalidades diferentes y los datos se han recogido mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas. Como conclusión hallamos que la cultura de origen influye en las relaciones afectivas-sexuales y en la construcción de las competencias emocionales.
Tuberculosis and migrants in the local health unit of Viterbo
Authors: Dari Silvia , Verginelli Flavia , Aquilani Silvia , Armignacco Orlando , Caterini Luciano , Bonelli Luca , Salimbeni Tiziana
Published: April 2015

Tuberculosis is still considered a worldwide health problem. In recent years, the stable decrease of tuberculosis notification in Europe is probably due to a particular underlying epidemiological trend: increase of tuberculosis notification in foreign born people living in low endemic countries, and a proportional decrease in the native population. This trend exists also in Italy, where tuberculosis incidence is low (5.2/100.000 inhabitants).Considering the high number of migrants in Viterbo Province after the humanitarian operation“Mare Nostrum”, we analyzed the local health unit (ASL) database to calculate tuberculosis notifications in this area. During the period 2013-2014, Viterbo Province data were similar to European data. Data on age, gender, and nationality are provided and discussed.It is noteworthy the identification of two cases in Nigerian patients that triggered a difficult epidemiological investigation due to the high number of people (migrants, social and healthcare workers) with whom they came into contact (174) and the problems in locating migrants moved to other Italian regions, thus highlighting the need for a constantly updated record of the migrant-hosting facilities.
Transition de l’élève de l’éducation préscolaire vers l’enseignement primaire
Authors: Duval Stéphanie , Bouchard Caroline
Published: April 2015

Cette étude vise à examiner le lien entre l’importance accordée par les enseignantes de 1re année aux pratiques de transition de l’éducation préscolaire vers l’enseignement primaire, le nombre de pratiques qu’elles ont implantées et l’ajustement socioscolaire des élèves. L’échantillon comprend 78 enfants et cinq enseignantes de deux écoles. Les données dévoilent que l’importance accordée à des pratiques de transition et le nombre de pratiques de transition implantées influencent l’ajustement socioscolaire des élèves lors de leur passage vers le primaire. Ces résultats sont discutés selon les notions de quantité et de qualité des pratiques de transition ainsi que de l’harmonisation des pratiques pédagogiques entre la maternelle et la 1reannée.
Ficar na escola: um furo no afeto
Authors: de Lourdes S. Ornellas Maria
Published: April 2015

Este livro, desde a escolha provocativa do título Ficar na escola: um furo no afeto, busca decifrar o fenômeno ficar no espaço de três escolas estaduais do estado da Bahia, possibilitando um novo olhar sobre as relações afetivas do adolescer na escola, que inquietam pais, professores e estudiosos. A obra é fruto de uma pesquisa com trabalho de campo, decorrente de entrevistas semiestruturadas, audição de discursos de adolescentes, observação de seus comportamentos, e análise de seus desenhos, construindo um trabalho rigoroso de interpretação e análise do material coletado. O ficar, nesse livro, pode ser visto como um sintoma da contemporaneidade, um jeito novo de adolescer e aprender a fazer escolhas. A autora revela, ainda, que a temática ficar pode ser um conteúdo pedagógico disciplinar a ser trabalhado, no sentido de que os componentes curriculares contemplem os valores do compromisso, profundidade, estabilidade, tolerância, prazer, responsabilidade, laços, gosto pelos estudos, na busca da construção de um sujeito afetivo que valorize o homem e a mulher na sua subjetividade e singularidade.
Social behavior and the microbiome
Authors: Gilbert Jack A
Published: April 2015

Social interactions influence the communities of microbes that live in wild baboons.
RELAÇÃO DE VARIÁVEIS AMBIENTAIS COM A DISTRIBUIÇÃO ESPACIAL DE DIFERENTES ESPÉCIES DE PEIXES DE RIACHO
Authors: Silva Willian Lopes , Fernandes Caroliny Helena Moreira , Amorim Nathan Lima Pereira , Kavalco Karine Frehner , Pazza Rubens
Published: April 2015

O riacho Olhos d’Água é o primeiro tributário de maior quantidade de água a se lançar no rio Paranaíba. É pequeno, arenoso e rochoso, com corredeiras e cachoeiras, mata ciliar degradada por atividades agropecuárias e captação de água para irrigação. Dois grupos de espécies foram estudados a 500m de sua nascente. Foram estabelecidos oito pontos de coleta em um percurso de 180m. Os peixes estudados são: Astyanax paranae (Teleostei, Characiformes), uma espécie comum, distribuída em cabeceiras de riachos e nativa na região, e pelo menos 2 espécies da família Poeciliidae (Teleostei, Cyprinodontiformes), um grupo de peixes muito resistentes, geralmente introduzidos para controle de insetos. Para explicar a distribuição destes dois grupos de espécies neste trecho, foram analisadas condições ambientais como pH, corrente, temperatura e as condições ripárias, como largura do riacho e da mata ciliar. Conclui-se que a distribuição está sendo influenciada principalmente pela profundidade e pela largura da mata ciliar.
Dust deposition on the decks of the Mars Exploration Rovers: 10 years of dust dynamics on the Panoramic Camera calibration targets
Authors: Kinch Kjartan M. , Bell James F. , Goetz Walter , Johnson Jeffrey R. , Joseph Jonathan , Madsen Morten Bo , Sohl‐Dickstein Jascha
Published: April 2015

The Panoramic Cameras on NASA's Mars Exploration Rovers have each returned more than 17,000 images of their calibration targets. In order to make optimal use of this data set for reflectance calibration, a correction must be made for the presence of air fall dust. Here we present an improved dust correction procedure based on a two‐layer scattering model, and we present a dust reflectance spectrum derived from long‐term trends in the data set. The dust on the calibration targets appears brighter than dusty areas of the Martian surface. We derive detailed histories of dust deposition and removal revealing two distinct environments: At the Spirit landing site, half the year is dominated by dust deposition, the other half by dust removal, usually in brief, sharp events. At the Opportunity landing site the Martian year has a semiannual dust cycle with dust removal happening gradually throughout two removal seasons each year. The highest observed optical depth of settled dust on the calibration target is 1.5 on Spirit and 1.1 on Opportunity (at 601 nm). We derive a general prediction for dust deposition rates of 0.004 ± 0.001 in units of surface optical depth deposited per sol (Martian solar day) per unit atmospheric optical depth. We expect this procedure to lead to improved reflectance‐calibration of the Panoramic Camera data set. In addition, it is easily adapted to similar data sets from other missions in order to deliver improved reflectance calibration as well as data on dust reflectance properties and deposition and removal history.
Transpolar arc observation after solar wind entry into the high‐latitude magnetosphere
Authors: Mailyan B. , Shi Q. Q. , Kullen A. , Maggiolo R. , Zhang Y. , Fear R. C. , Zong Q.‐G. , Fu S. Y. , Gou X. C. , Cao X. , Yao Z. H. , Sun W. J. , Wei Y. , Pu Z. Y.
Published: April 2015

Recently, Cluster observations have revealed the presence of new regions of solar wind plasma entry at the high‐latitude magnetospheric lobes tailward of the cusp region, mostly during periods of northward interplanetary magnetic field. In this study, observations from the Global Ultraviolet Imager (GUVI) experiment on board the TIMED spacecraft and Wideband Imaging Camera imager on board the IMAGE satellite are used to investigate a possible link between solar wind entry and the formation of transpolar arcs in the polar cap. We focus on a case when transpolar arc formation was observed twice right after the two solar wind entry events were detected by the Cluster spacecraft. In addition, GUVI and IMAGE observations show a simultaneous occurrence of auroral activity at low and high latitudes after the second entry event, possibly indicating a two‐part structure of the continuous band of the transpolar arc.
Westward tilt of low‐latitude plasma blobs as observed by the Swarm constellation
Authors: Park Jaeheung , Lühr Hermann , Michaelis Ingo , Stolle Claudia , Rauberg Jan , Buchert Stephan , Gill Reine , Merayo Jose M. G. , Brauer Peter
Published: April 2015

In this study we investigate the three‐dimensional structure of low‐latitude plasma blobs using multi‐instrument and multisatellite observations of the Swarm constellation. During the early commissioning phase the Swarm satellites were flying at the same altitude with zonal separation of about 0.5∘ in geographic longitude. Electron density data from the three satellites constrain the blob morphology projected onto the horizontal plane. Magnetic field deflections around blobs, which originate from field‐aligned currents near the irregularity boundaries, constrain the blob structure projected onto the plane perpendicular to the ambient magnetic field. As the two constraints are given for two noncoplanar surfaces, we can get information on the three‐dimensional structure of blobs. Combined observation results suggest that blobs are contained within tilted shells of geomagnetic flux tubes, which are similar to the shell structure of equatorial plasma bubbles suggested by previous studies.
Anisotropic response of surface circulation to wind forcing, as inferred from high‐frequency radar currents in the southeastern Bay of Biscay
Authors: Fontán Almudena , Cornuelle Bruce
Published: April 2015

The short‐term (less than 20 days) response of surface circulation to wind has been determined in waters of the southeastern Bay of Biscay, using wind impulse response (time domain) and transfer (frequency domain) functions relating high‐frequency radar currents and reanalysis winds. The response of surface currents is amplified at the near‐inertial frequency and the low‐frequency and it varies spatially. The analysis indicates that the response of the ocean to the wind is slightly anisotropic, likely due to pressure gradients and friction induced by the bottom and coastline boundaries in this region. Thus, the transfer function at the near‐inertial frequency decreases onshore due to the coastline inhibition of circularly polarized near‐inertial motion. In contrast, the low‐frequency transfer function is enhanced toward the coast as a result of the geostrophic balance between the cross‐shore pressure gradient and the Coriolis forces. The transfer functions also vary with season. In summer, the current response to wind is expected to be stronger but shallower due to stratification; in winter, the larger mixed layer depth results in a weaker but deeper response. The results obtained are consistent with the theoretical description of wind‐driven circulation and can be used to develop a statistical model with a broad range of applications including accurate oceanic forecasting and understanding of the coupled atmosphere‐ocean influence on marine ecosystems.
Location of high‐frequency P wave microseismic noise in the Pacific Ocean using multiple small aperture arrays
Authors: Pyle Moira L. , Koper Keith D. , Euler Garrett G. , Burlacu Relu
Published: April 2015

We investigate source locations of P wave microseisms within a narrow frequency band (0.67–1.33 Hz) that is significantly higher than the classic microseism band (~0.05–0.3 Hz). Employing a backprojection method, we analyze data recorded during January 2010 from five International Monitoring System arrays that border the Pacific Ocean. We develop a ranking scheme that allows us to combine beam power from multiple arrays to obtain robust locations of the microseisms. Some individual arrays exhibit a strong regional component, but results from the combination of all arrays show high‐frequency P wave energy emanating from the North Pacific basin, in general agreement with previous observations in the double‐frequency (DF) microseism band (~0.1–0.3 Hz). This suggests that the North Pacific source of ambient P noise covers a broad range of frequencies and that the wave‐wave interaction model is likely valid at shorter periods.
Effects of Concomitant Methotrexate on Large Joint Replacement in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated With Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study in Japan
Authors: Asai Shuji , Kojima Toshihisa , Oguchi Takeshi , Kaneko Atsushi , Hirano Yuji , Yabe Yuichiro , Kanayama Yasuhide , Takahashi Nobunori , Funahashi Koji , Hanabayashi Masahiro , Hirabara Shinya , Yoshioka Yutaka , Takemoto Toki , Terabe Kenya , Asai Nobuyuki , Ishiguro Naoki
Published: April 2015

Objective

To determine the effects of concomitant methotrexate (MTX) on the incidence of large joint replacement resulting from the progression of large joint destruction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed using a multicenter registry. In total, 803 patients with RA who received etanercept or adalimumab were included. The first large joint replacement during treatment with etanercept or adalimumab was used as the outcome variable in predictive analyses. The cumulative incidence of large joint replacement was estimated using Kaplan‐Meier curves, and the impact of concomitant MTX on the incidence of large joint replacement was assessed with Cox proportional hazards models. Propensity score matching was used to reduce selection bias.

Results

Of all patients, 601 (75%) received concomitant MTX at a median dosage of 8 mg/week (interquartile range 6–8). A total of 49 patients (62 joints) underwent large joint replacement during treatment with etanercept or adalimumab. The incidence of large joint replacement for patients with concomitant MTX was significantly lower than that for patients without MTX (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that concomitant MTX independently predicted large joint replacement (hazard ratio 0.36, 95% confidence interval 0.20–0.65). Additionally, propensity score–matched analysis demonstrated that patients with concomitant MTX had a significantly lower incidence of large joint replacement than those without concomitant MTX (P = 0.032).

Conclusion

Concomitant MTX reduces the incidence of large joint replacement in patients with RA treated with TNF inhibitors.
Gate‐Controlled Energy Barrier at a Graphene/Molecular Semiconductor Junction
Authors: Parui Subir , Pietrobon Luca , Ciudad David , Vélez Saül , Sun Xiangnan , Casanova Fèlix , Stoliar Pablo , Hueso Luis E.
Published: April 2015

The formation of an energy‐barrier at a metal/molecular semiconductor junction is a universal phenomenon which limits the performance of many molecular semiconductor‐based electronic devices, from field‐effect transistors to light‐emitting diodes. In general, a specific metal/molecular semiconductor combination of materials leads to a fixed energy‐barrier. However, in this work, a graphene/C60 vertical field‐effect transistor is presented in which control of the interfacial energy‐barrier is demonstrated, such that the junction switches from a highly rectifying diode at negative gate voltages to a highly conductive nonrectifying behavior at positive gate voltages and at room temperature. From the experimental data, an energy‐barrier modulation of up to 660 meV, a transconductance of up to five orders of magnitude, and a gate‐modulated photocurrent are extracted. The ability to tune the graphene/molecular semiconductor energy‐barrier provides a promising route toward novel, high performance molecular devices.
Breast size and asymmetry during pregnancy in dependence of a fetus's sex
Authors: Żelaźniewicz Agnieszka , Pawłowski Bogusław
Published: April 2015

Objectives

Breast size and fluctuating asymmetry (FA) are related to women's biological condition, as size correlates positively with fecundity, whereas FA correlates negatively with biological quality. We tested if breast volume, FA, and their changes during pregnancy are related to a fetus's sex. Women with bigger, symmetrical breasts, with a greater increase in size during pregnancy, should be more likely to carry a more ecologically sensitive and energetically demanding male fetus.

Methods

Ninety‐three women participated in a 3‐stage longitudinal study. 3D breast scans were performed in the first, second, and third trimester of pregnancy. As there was a small variation in pregnancy week at each research stage between the participants, the expected breast volume and FA values for the 12th, 22nd, and 32nd pregnancy week were calculated, basing on the obtained measurements. Those values were compared between mothers who carried a boy and mothers who carried a girl.

Results

Although women who carried a boy had somewhat larger breasts at each trimester than women who carried a girl, the difference was not significant. ANOVA for repeated measurements revealed a greater breast size increase in women carrying a boy (P = 0.039). FA decreased during pregnancy, but was not related to a fetus's sex.

Conclusion

Pregnancy‐induced breast volume increase is a better cue of a fetus's sex than breast asymmetry or breast size per se, i.e., the traits that are supposed to indicate a woman's biological condition. Women with a larger increase in breast size during pregnancy are more likely to carry to term a more ecologically vulnerable male fetus. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 27:690–696, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stereocontrolled Synthesis of the C1‐C10 Fragments of Monensin B and Laidlomycin
Authors: Kang Sungkyoung , Lee Wonchul , Jung Byunghyuck , Lee Hee‐Seung , Kang Sung Ho
Published: April 2015

An efficient synthetic route to the C1‐C10 fragments of laidlomycin and monensin B has been developed toward their total synthesis. The asymmetric carbons have been elaborated by a syn‐aldol reaction using the oxazolidinone chiral auxiliary for C6 and C7, an anti‐aldol reaction for C3 and C4, the Tishchenko–Evans reaction for C5, and a chiral building block for C2.
Morphology development and size control of PA6 nanofibers from PA6/CAB polymer blends
Authors: Zhang Peipei , Xu Dandan , Xiao Ru
Published: April 2015

Polyamide 6 (PA6) nanofibers were prepared by the melt blending extrusion process of PA6/cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) immiscible polymer blends. The average diameter of obtained PA6 nanofibers was 95–190 nm which could be controlled by varying the process conditions, such as blend ratio was 10/90‐40/60, shear rate was 10 and 80 s−1and two different blending equipments, and the effect of adding graphene for the diameters was also discussed. In addition, and the formation mechanism of nanofibers was studied by viscoelastic analysis and collecting samples at four different sites along the extruder. The morphology of PA6 dispersed phase in CAB matrix included three stages: PA6 pellets changed into sheets or ribbons, the formation of microfibers and size reduction, the size of microfibers continued refinement to nanofibers. The morphology development of dispersed phase may be postponed by blend ratio. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42184.
Effects of Differently Activated Rodent Macrophages on Sensory Neurons: Implications for Arthritis Pain
Authors: Massier Julia , Eitner Annett , Segond von Banchet Gisela , Schaible Hans‐Georg
Published: April 2015

Objective

In arthritis, macrophages invade the affected joint. Experimental arthritis models have shown that macrophages also invade the dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) of the inflamed segments in which the perikarya of sensory neurons are located. It is unclear whether this macrophage invasion contributes to arthritis pain and/or furthers neuronal damage. The present study was undertaken to investigate how differently activated macrophages affect DRG neurons.

Methods

We determined the phenotype of macrophages in the DRGs of rats with antigen‐induced arthritis (AIA). In a DRG neuron–macrophage coculture system, we investigated whether differently activated macrophages (stimulated with either lipopolysaccharide [LPS]/interferon‐γ [IFNγ], tumor necrosis factor [TNF], or interleukin‐4) damage DRG neurons and/or stimulate them to release the mediator calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP), which promotes pain and neurogenic inflammation.

Results

Macrophages in the DRGs of rats with AIA showed the phenotype of TNF‐stimulated macrophages but did not express inducible nitric oxide synthase, which was found in cultured macrophages only after LPS/IFNγ activation. In neuron–macrophage cocultures, activation of macrophages stimulated DRG neurons to release CGRP within 1 hour, indicating neuronal activation by macrophages. Only 48‐hour activation of macrophages with LPS/IFNγ increased the neuronal cell death rate in culture, provided that the macrophages were in direct contact with DRG neurons. This effect was dependent on nitric oxide.

Conclusion

Macrophages have the potential to stimulate sensory neurons in the DRGs, and this may contribute to arthritis pain. If they are classically activated, such as after LPS/IFNγ stimulation, this may also further neuronal cell death. This is not the case in AIA but may occur in models involving damage of sensory neurons.
Disease‐Associated Single‐Nucleotide Polymorphisms From Noncoding Regions in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Are Located Within or Adjacent to Functional Genomic Elements of Human Neutrophils and CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Jiang Kaiyu , Zhu Lisha , Buck Michael J. , Chen Yanmin , Carrier Bradley , Liu Tao , Jarvis James N.
Published: April 2015

Objective

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is considered a complex disease in which the environment interacts with inherited genes to produce a phenotype that shows broad interindividual variability. Twenty‐four regions of genetic risk for JIA were identified in a recent genome‐wide association study (GWAS); however, as is typical of the results of GWAS, most of the regions of genetic risk (22 of 24) were in noncoding regions of the genome. This study was undertaken to identify functional elements (other than genes) that might be located within the regions of genetic risk.

Methods

We used paired‐end RNA sequencing to identify noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) located within 5 kb of disease‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In addition, we used chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) followed by sequencing to identify epigenetic marks associated with enhancer function (H3K4me1 and H3K27ac) in human neutrophils to determine whether enhancer‐associated histone marks were enriched in the linkage disequilibrium blocks that encompassed the 22 SNPs identified in the GWAS.

Results

In human neutrophils, we identified H3K4me1 and/or H3K27ac marks in 15 of the 22 regions previously identified as risk loci for JIA. In CD4+ T cells, 18 regions had H3K4me1 and/or H3K27ac marks. In addition, we identified ncRNA transcripts at the rs4705862 and rs6894249 loci in human neutrophils.

Conclusion

Much of the genetic risk for JIA lies within or adjacent to regions of neutrophil and CD4+ T cell genomes that carry epigenetic marks associated with enhancer function and/or ncRNA transcripts. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that JIA is fundamentally a disorder of gene regulation that includes both the innate and the adaptive immune system. Elucidating the specific roles of these noncoding elements within leukocyte genomes will be critical to our understanding of JIA pathogenesis.
A novel recombinant chlorophyllase from cyanobacterium Cyanothece sp. ATCC 51142 for the production of bacteriochlorophyllide a
Authors: Chou Yi‐Li , Lee Ya‐Lin , Yen Chih‐Chung , Chen Long‐Fang O. , Lee Li‐Chiun , Shaw Jei‐Fu
Published: April 2015

Bacteriopheophorbide a (BPheid a) is used as a precursor for bacteriochlorin a (BCA), which can be used for photodynamic therapy in both in vitro and in vivo biochemical applications. This study successfully isolated and expressed a photosynthetic bacterium (Cyanothece sp. ATCC 51142) chlorophyllase called CyanoCLH, which can be used as a biocatalyst for the production of a BCA precursor by degrading bacteriochlorophyll a (BChl a). Substrate specificity and enzyme kinetic analyses were performed and the results verified that the recombinant CyanoCLH preferred hydrolyzing BChl a to produce bacteriochlorophyllide a (BChlide a), which can be converted to BPheid a by removing magnesium ion. The recombinant CyanoCLH was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli BL‐21 (DE3), and its molecular weight was 54.7 kDa. The deduced amino acid sequence of the recombinant CyanoCLH comprised a unique lipase‐motif GHSLG, which differs from the GHSRG sequence of other plants and lacks a histidine of the typical and conserved catalytic triad Ser‐Asp‐His. The recombinant CyanoCLH was subjected to biochemical analyses, and the results indicated that its optimal pH and temperature were 7.0 and 60 °C, respectively.
HPLC with fluorescence detection assay of perampanel, a novel AMPA receptor antagonist, in human plasma for clinical pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Mano Yuji , Takenaka Osamu , Kusano Kazutomi
Published: April 2015

Perampanel (Fycompa®), a novel α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor antagonist, is registered for the adjunctive treatment of patients (aged ≥12 years) with refractory partial‐onset seizures. To support therapeutic drug monitoring, a simple high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay with fluorescence detection was developed to determine perampanel concentrations in human plasma and validated to support clinical trials. Human plasma samples (1.0 mL) were processed by liquid extraction using diethyl ether, followed by chromatographic separation on a YMC Pack Pro C18 column (150 × 4.6 mm i.d., 5 µm) with isocratic elution of acetonitrile–water–acetic acid–sodium acetate (840:560:3:1.8, v/v/v/w) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. Column eluent was monitored at excitation and emission wavelengths of 290 and 430 nm, respectively. The assay was linear (range 1.0–500 ng/mL) and this could be extended to 25 µg/mL by 50‐fold dilution integrity. No endogenous peaks were detected in the elution of analytes in drug‐free blank human plasma from six individuals and no interference was observed with co‐medications tested. Intra‐ and inter‐batch reproducibility studies demonstrated accuracy and precision within the acceptance criteria of bioanalytical guidelines. Validation data demonstrated that our assay is simple, selective, reproducible and suitable for therapeutic drug monitoring of perampanel. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Circumstances and Outcomes of a Firearm Seizure Law: Marion County, Indiana, 2006–2013
Authors: Parker George F.
Published: April 2015

Indiana statute allows police to seize firearms without a warrant if the officer believes a person meets the law's definition of “dangerous.” Review of the use of this law in Marion County (Indianapolis), Indiana, showed that prosecutors filed petitions in court to retain weapons seized by police under this law 404 times between 2006 and 2013. Police removed weapons from people due to identification of a risk of suicide (68%) or violence (21%), or the presence of psychosis (16%). The firearm seizures occurred in the context of domestic disputes in 28% of cases and intoxication was noted in 26% of cases. There were significant demographic differences in the circumstances of firearm seizures and the firearms seized. The seized firearms were retained by the court at the initial hearing in 63% of cases; this retention was closely linked to the defendant's failure to appear at the hearing. The court dismissed 29% of cases at the initial hearing, closely linked to the defendant's presence at the hearing. In subsequent hearings of cases not dismissed, the court ordered the destruction of the firearms in 72% of cases, all when the individual did not appear in court, and dismissed 24% of the cases, all when the individual was present at the hearing. Overall, the Indiana law removed weapons from a small number of people, most of whom did not seek return of their weapons. The firearm seizure law thus functioned as a months‐long cooling‐off period for those who did seek the return of their guns. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implications of modifying membrane fatty acid composition on membrane oxidation, integrity, and storage viability of freeze‐dried probiotic, Lactobacillus acidophilus La‐5
Authors: Hansen Marie‐Louise R. W. , Petersen Mikael A. , Risbo Jens , Hümmer Magdalena , Clausen Anders
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of altering the fatty acid profile of the lipid membrane on storage survival of freeze‐dried probiotic, Lactobacillus acidophilus La‐5, as well as study the membrane integrity and lipid oxidation. The fatty acid composition of the lipid membrane of L. acidophilus La‐5 was significantly different upon growth in MRS (containing Tween 80, an oleic acid source), or in MRS with Tween 20 (containing C12:0 and C14:0), linoleic, or linolenic acid supplemented. Bacteria grown in MRS showed the highest storage survival rates. No indications of loss of membrane integrity could be found, and membrane integrity could therefore not be connected with loss of viability. Survival of bacteria grown with linoleic or linolenic acid was more negatively affected by the presence of oxygen, than bacteria grown in MRS or with Tween 20 supplemented. A small, but significant, loss of linolenic acid during storage could be identified, and an increase of volatile secondary oxidation products during storage was found for bacteria grown in MRS, or with linoleic, or linolenic acid supplemented, but not for bacteria grown with Tween 20. Overall, the results indicate that lipid oxidation and loss of membrane integrity are not the only or most important detrimental reactions which can occur during storage. By altering the fatty acid composition, it was also found that properties of oleic acid gave rise to more robust bacteria than more saturated or unsaturated fatty acids did. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 31:799–807, 2015
Segregation of ovarian cancer stage exploiting spectral biomarkers derived from blood plasma or serum analysis: ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy coupled with variable selection methods
Authors: Lima Kássio M. G. , Gajjar Ketan B. , Martin‐Hirsch Pierre L. , Martin Francis L.
Published: April 2015

Ovarian cancer is a solid tumor and a leading cause of mortality. Diagnostic tools for the detection of early stage (stage I) ovarian cancer are urgently needed. For this purpose, attenuated total reflection Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR) coupled with variable selection methods, successive projection algorithm or genetic algorithm (GA) combined with linear discriminant analysis (LDA), were employed to identify spectral biomarkers in blood plasma or serum samples for accurate diagnosis of different stages of ovarian cancer, histological type and segregation based on age. Three spectral datasets (stage I vs. stage II–IV; serous vs. non‐serous carcinoma; and, ≤60 years vs. >60 years) were processed: sensitivity and specificity required for real‐world diagnosis of ovarian cancer was achieved. Toward segregating stage I vs. stage II–IV, sensitivity and specificity (plasma blood) of 100% was achieved using a GA‐LDA model with 33 wavenumbers. For serous vs. non‐serous category (plasma blood), the sensitivity and specificity levels, using 29 wavenumbers by GA‐LDA, were remarkable (up to 94%). For ≤60 years and >60 years categories (plasma blood), the sensitivity and specificity, using 42 wavenumbers by GA‐LDA, gave complete accuracy (100%). For serum samples, sensitivity and specificity results gave relatively high accuracy (up to 91.6% stage I vs. stage II–IV; up to 93.0% serous vs. non‐serous; and, up to 96.0% ≤60 years vs. >60 years) using several wavenumbers. These findings justify a prospective population‐based assessment of biomarkers signatures using ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy as a screening tool for stage of ovarian cancer. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 31:832–839, 2015
Glutamate affects dendritic morphology of neurons grown on compliant substrates
Authors: Previtera Michelle L. , Firestein Bonnie L.
Published: April 2015

Brain stiffness changes in response to injury or disease. As a secondary consequence, glutamate is released from neurons and astroglia. Two types of glutamate receptors, N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) and α‐Amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, sense mechanotransduction, leading to downstream signaling in neurons. Recently, our group reported that these two receptors affect dendrite morphology in hippocampal neurons grown on compliant substrates. Blocking receptor activity has distinct effects on dendrites, depending on whether neurons are grown on soft or stiff gels. In the current study, we examine whether exposure to glutamate itself alters stiffness‐mediated changes to dendrites in hippocampal neurons. We find that glutamate augments changes seen when neurons are grown on soft gels of 300 or 600 Pa, but in contrast, glutamate attenuates changes seen when neurons are grown on stiff gels of 3,000 Pa. These results suggest that there is interplay between mechanosensing and glutamate receptor activation in determining dendrite morphology in neurons. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 31:1128–1132, 2015