bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conjugated polyaniline as a result of the benzidine rearrangement
Authors: Sapurina Irina , Tenkovtsev Andrey V , Stejskal Jaroslav
Published: January 2015

The mechanism of the oxidative polymerization of aniline is reviewed on the basis of the experimental evidence and reaction schemes proposed in the literature. It is demonstrated that the balance between the non‐protonated and protonated forms of the monomer and the growing chain is responsible for the diversity of the molecular structure, morphology and properties of aniline oxidation products. Various forms are oxidized by two oxidation mechanisms: (1) chain reaction of electrophilic substitution and (2) coupling of cation‐radical centres. At pH > 2.5, the non‐protonated reagents are oxidized with a chain reaction controlled by electrophilic substitution of the aromatic ring. The reaction leads to the formation of non‐conducting aniline oligomers with heterogeneous molecular structures. At pH = 2.5–4, the electrophilic substitution is reduced because of the protonation of the aniline, and the cyclic dimer, phenazine, becomes the main product of the oxidation. The growth of the conjugated chain proceeds at pH < 2.5, when the reactants are protonated. The reaction proceeds through coupling between the terminal cation radical and the monomer cation radical with formation of a π‐complex. The transformation of the π‐complex into a para‐substituted monomer unit is thermodynamically controlled and is produced through an intramolecular benzidine (semidine) rearrangement. The regular structure of the growing chains is a result of the high regioselectivity of the sigmatropic rearrangements and significant energy gain attained by the formation of protonated polyconjugated chains in the agglomerated state. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation and characterization of covalently bonded PVA/Laponite/HAPI nanocomposite multilayer freestanding films by layer‐by‐layer assembly
Authors: Ren Wenchen , Wu Ronglan , Guo Pingping , Zhu Jinlong , Li Huili , Xu Shimei , Wang Jide
Published: January 2015

The layer‐by‐layer (LBL) assembly technique is an attractive method to make functional multilayer thin films and has been applied to fabricate a wide range of materials. LBL materials could improve optical transmittance and mechanical properties if the film components were covalently bonded. Covalently bonded nanocomposite multilayer films were prepared by employing hydrophilic aliphatic polyisocyanate (HAPI) as the reactive component, to react with Laponite and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). FT‐IR spectra suggested that HAPI reacted with Laponite and PVA at ambient temperature rapidly. Ellipsometry measurement showed that the film thickness was in linear growth. The influences of HAPI on the optical, mechanical and thermal properties of the films were investigated by UV‐Vis spectroscopy, tensile stress measurement, DSC and TGA. The obtained results showed that the optical transmittance and mechanical strength were enhanced when the film components were covalently bonded by HAPI. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 545–551
New BPD predicts lung function at school age: Follow‐up study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ronkainen Eveliina , Dunder Teija , Peltoniemi Outi , Kaukola Tuula , Marttila Riitta , Hallman Mikko
Published: January 2015

New treatment practices have improved survival of preterm infants and decreased airway pathology in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Our aim was to investigate whether preterm birth, BPD, and the severity of BPD predict lung function in school children that are born in surfactant era.

We studied pulmonary function of 88 school‐aged children born very preterm (gestational age <32 weeks) and paired them with 88 age‐ and sex‐matched controls born at term. Spirometry and diffusion capacity were recorded. We also performed a meta‐analysis covering the era of antenatal corticosteroid and surfactant treatment.

BPD was defined as oxygen dependence for ≥28 days and it was severity‐graded by oxygen requirement at 36 weeks postmenstrual age (mild, none; moderate, FiO2 = 0.22–0.29; severe, FiO2 ≥ 0.30). Preterm children had lower forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) 86.4 ± 11.8 versus 94.9 ± 10.1 (mean % predicted ± SD; P < 0.001), and lower diffusion capacity (DLCO) 87.6 ± 13.9 versus 93.7 ± 12.0 (P = 0.005) compared with term controls. BPD group differed in both FEV1 (P = 0.037) and DLCO (P = 0.018) from those without BPD. For meta‐analysis, search identified 210 articles. Together with present results, six articles met the inclusion criteria. FEV1 of no BPD, all BPD, and moderate to severe BPD groups differed from that in term controls by −7.4, −10.5, and −17.8%, respectively.

According to meta‐analysis and follow‐up study, the adverse effects of prematurity on pulmonary function are still detectable in school‐age. BPD was associated with reductions in both diffusion capacity and spirometry. New interventions are required to document a further decrease in the life‐long consequences of prematurity. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:1090–1098. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structure–function analysis reveals that the Pseudomonas aeruginosa Tps4 two‐partner secretion system is involved in CupB5 translocation
Authors: Garnett James A. , Muhl Daniela , Douse Christopher H. , Hui Kailyn , Busch Andreas , Omisore Ayodele , Yang Yi , Simpson Peter , Marchant Jan , Waksman Gabriel , Matthews Steve , Filloux Alain
Published: January 2015

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram‐negative opportunistic bacterium, synonymous with cystic fibrosis patients, which can cause chronic infection of the lungs. This pathogen is a model organism to study biofilms: a bacterial population embedded in an extracellular matrix that provide protection from environmental pressures and lead to persistence. A number of Chaperone‐Usher Pathways, namely CupA‐CupE, play key roles in these processes by assembling adhesive pili on the bacterial surface. One of these, encoded by the cupB operon, is unique as it contains a nonchaperone‐usher gene product, CupB5. Two‐partner secretion (TPS) systems are comprised of a C‐terminal integral membrane β‐barrel pore with tandem N‐terminal POTRA (POlypeptide TRansport Associated) domains located in the periplasm (TpsB) and a secreted substrate (TpsA). Using NMR we show that TpsB4 (LepB) interacts with CupB5 and its predicted cognate partner TpsA4 (LepA), an extracellular protease. Moreover, using cellular studies we confirm that TpsB4 can translocate CupB5 across the P. aeruginosa outer membrane, which contrasts a previous observation that suggested the CupB3 P‐usher secretes CupB5. In support of our findings we also demonstrate that tps4/cupB operons are coregulated by the RocS1 sensor suggesting P. aeruginosa has developed synergy between these systems. Furthermore, we have determined the solution‐structure of the TpsB4‐POTRA1 domain and together with restraints from NMR chemical shift mapping and in vivo mutational analysis we have calculated models for the entire TpsB4 periplasmic region in complex with both TpsA4 and CupB5 secretion motifs. The data highlight specific residues for TpsA4/CupB5 recognition by TpsB4 in the periplasm and suggest distinct roles for each POTRA domain.
NUSAP1 expression is upregulated by loss of RB1 in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Gordon Catherine A. , Gulzar Zulfiqar G. , Brooks James D.
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Overexpression of NUSAP1 is associated with poor prognosis in prostate cancer, but little is known about what leads to its overexpression. Based on previous observations that NUSAP1 expression is enhanced by E2F1, we hypothesized that NUSAP1 expression is regulated, at least in part, by loss of RB1 via the RB1/E2F1 axis.

METHODS

Using Significance Analysis of Microarrays, we examined RB1, E2F1, and NUSAP1 transcript levels in prostate cancer gene expression datasets. We compared NUSAP1 expression levels in DU145, LNCaP, and PC‐3 prostate cancer cell lines via use of cDNA microarray data, RT‐qPCR, and Western blots. In addition, we used lentiviral expression constructs to knockdown RB1 in prostate cancer cell lines and transient transfections to knockdown E2F1, and investigated RB1, E2F1, and NUSAP1 expression levels with RT‐qPCR and Western blots. Finally, in DU145 cells or PC‐3 cells that stably underexpress RB1, we used proliferation and invasion assays to assess whether NUSAP1 knockdown affects proliferation or invasion.

RESULTS

NUSAP1 transcript levels are positively correlated with E2F1 and negatively correlated with RB1 transcript levels in prostate cancer microarray datasets. NUSAP1 expression is elevated in the RB1‐null DU145 prostate cancer cell line, as opposed to LNCaP and PC‐3 cell lines. Furthermore, NUSAP1 expression increases upon knockdown of RB1 in prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP and PC‐3) and decreases after knockdown of E2F1. Lastly, knockdown of NUSAP1 in DU145 cells or PC‐3 cells with stable knockdown of RB1 decreases proliferation and invasion of these cells.

CONCLUSION

Our studies support the notion that NUSAP1 expression is upregulated by loss of RB1 via the RB1/E2F1 axis in prostate cancer cells. Such upregulation may promote prostate cancer progression by increasing proliferation and invasion of prostate cancer cells. NUSAP1 may thus represent a novel therapeutic target. Prostate 75: 517–526, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three‐dimensional reconstruction of deferent ducts papillae in urogenital duct system of the male rat
Authors: Wakui Shin , Motohashi Masaya , Inomata Tomo , Ichihara Nobutsume , Mutou Tomoko , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Ikegami Masahiro , Asari Masao
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

The rodent ejaculatory ducts penetrate the male accessory sex gland complex and open into the urethra, anatomically similar to humans. Although the deferent ducts papillae in rodents have been described at the distal end of deferent ducts, they are absent in humans, and their detailed morphology has been unclear.

METHODS

The detailed anatomical structures of the distal end of the deferent ducts of rats were investigated by the computer assisted three‐dimensional reconstruction analysis using serial sections of the male accessory sex gland complexes in rats.

RESULTS

The present study revealed that a pair of deferent ducts enters the ventral side of the male accessory sex gland complex, runs caudally parallel to the urethra, and then exits at about midsection of the dorso‐lateral lobe of prostate. They are composed of mammilliform papillae, called the deferent duct papillae, which dorso‐laterally protrude into the duct lumen from intra‐ventral portion of the main duct of ampullary gland. The internal surface of the deferent ducts papillae is composed of ciliated columnar epithelium continuous from the deferent ducts, while their external surface is composed of the columnar secretory epithelium of the ampullary glands. Sphincter muscles were not observed in the deferent ducts papillae, while their lamina propria were occupied by many arterial or venous capillaries.

CONCLUSIONS

The deferent ducts of rat terminated at the deferent ducts papillae that located at the main duct of ampullary glands that drained into the urethra. The deferent ducts papillae might be controlled by the expansion/contraction of well‐developed papillary mucosal capillary vessels. Prostate 75: 646–652, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improvement of vertical light extraction from GaN‐based LEDs on moth‐eye patterned sapphire substrates
Authors: Ohya Masaki , Naniwae Koichi , Kondo Toshiyuki , Suzuki Atsushi , Mori Midori , Kitano Tsukasa , Usui Akane , Kamiyama Satoshi
Published: January 2015

A newly developed moth‐eye patterned sapphire substrate (MPSS) technology increased light extraction efficiency (LEE) in the vertical direction in nitride‐based blue light emitting diodes (LEDs). MPSS is characterized by a submicron‐scale periodical structure that exerts the Bragg diffraction effect at the interface between gallium nitride (GaN) and sapphire. Through simulations and experiments, it was revealed that emphasis of the diffraction effect by optimizing the MPSS structure enhanced vertical emission from LEDs. As a result, resin‐encapsulated, large‐sized LEDs on MPSS with a large diffraction effect achieved a high LEE of 0.76 that was comparable to that of commercially available thin‐film LEDs.

Bird's‐eye view of scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of MPSS.
Preparation, thermal stability, and electrical transport properties of In/Sn codoped β‐Zn4Sb3 single crystal
Authors: Shai Xuxia , Deng Shukang , Shen Lanxian , Meng Daiyi , Li Decong , Zhang Yanjun , Jiang Xianyan
Published: January 2015

In and Sn codoped β‐Zn4Sb3 single crystals were prepared by a Sn‐flux method according to the formula Zn4.4Sb3Sn3Inx(x = 0–0.5). The thermal weight loss is suppressed completely until the melting point of the single crystals. All crystals exhibit p‐type conduction. The carrier mobility of the single crystals is increased, compared to a β‐Zn4Sb3 polycrystalline sample. All samples possess relatively high electrical conductivity, reaching 6.3 × 104 S/m for the sample with x = 0.18. The Seebeck coefficient is enhanced on increasing of the total content of In and Sn. The sample with x = 0.5 exhibits excellent electrical properties, and shows a maximal power factor of 1.53 × 10−3 W/m/K2 at 603 K.
Effects of Total Flavones from Acanthopanax senticosus on L‐type Calcium Channels, Calcium Transient and Contractility in Rat Ventricular Myocytes
Authors: Guan Shengjiang , Ma Juanjuan , Chu Xi , Gao Yonggang , Zhang Ying , Zhang Xuan , Zhang Fenghua , Liu Zhenyi , Zhang Jianping , Chu Li
Published: January 2015

Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Harms (AS), a traditional herbal medicine, has been widely used to treat ischemic heart disease. However, the underlying cellular mechanisms of its benefits to cardiac function remain unclear. The present study examined the effects of total flavones from AS (TFAS) on L‐type Ca2+ channel currents (ICa‐L) using the whole cell patch‐clamp technique and on intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) handling and cell contractility in rat ventricular myocytes with the aid of a video‐based edge‐detection system. Exposure to TFAS resulted in a concentration‐ and voltage‐dependent blockade of ICa‐L, with the half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 283.12 µg/mL and the maximal inhibitory effect of 36.49 ± 1.95%. Moreover, TFAS not only increased the maximum current in the current–voltage relationship but also shifted the activation and inactivation curves of ICa‐L toward the hyperpolarizing direction. Meanwhile, TFAS significantly reduced amplitudes of myocyte shortening and [Ca2+]i with an increase in the time to 10% of the peak (Tp) and a decrease in the time to 10% of the baseline (Tr). Thus, the cardioprotective effects of TFAS may be attributed mainly to the attenuation of [Ca2+]i through the direct inhibition of ICa‐L in rat ventricular myocytes and consequent negative effect on myocardial contractility. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of Polyphenols on the Physiological Processes in the Skin
Authors: Ratz‐Łyko Anna , Arct Jacek , Majewski Sławomir , Pytkowska Katarzyna
Published: January 2015

In the last decade antioxidants from a group of polyphenols have been proposed as one of the most effective functional ingredients of anti‐ageing properties that counteract the effects of oxidative damage to the skin. It has been shown that the use of polyphenols affects skin protection and mitigates inflammatory conditions of the skin. Numerous studies have confirmed that polyphenols by neutralizing free radicals, antioxidant activity and by their ability to chelate ions of transition metals can effectively reduce the level of nonprotein inflammatory mediators. The biological activity of polyphenols in the skin is primarily determined by their physicochemical properties and the ability to overcome the epidermal barrier as they try to reach appropriate receptors. This study reviews literature on the effects of polyphenols relating to the physiological processes in the skin and role of the major plant polyphenols in cosmetology and dermatology. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A scaling relation for warm‐phase orographic precipitation: a Lagrangian analysis for 2D mountains
Authors: Miltenberger Annette K. , Seifert Axel , Joos Hanna , Wernli Heini
Published: January 2015

The precipitation produced by orographic clouds is the result of the interaction between nonlinear dynamical and microphysical processes. Focusing on warm‐phase stable clouds, we propose that the precipitation efficiency is essentially controlled by the bulk Damköhler number of the system, i.e. the ratio of the characteristic advective to the microphysical time‐scale of the cloud. These time‐scales are investigated thoroughly for single air parcels along temporally highly resolved trajectories from quasi‐two‐dimensional numerical simulations with vertical Froude numbers between 0.38 and 2.31. Based on these results, analytical formulations for the Damköhler number of single parcels and for a bulk Damköhler number for the entire cloud are developed, which depend only on the far upstream flow properties and the cloud droplet number density.

Relating the bulk Damköhler numbers to the precipitation efficiencies from the numerical simulations results in a unique scaling relation between the two non‐dimensional numbers: no precipitation is observed for very small Damköhler numbers, while for large Damköhler numbers the precipitation efficiency asymptotically approaches a maximum value of about 0.8. For intermediate Damköhler numbers, the precipitation efficiency depends strongly on the microphysical properties of the clouds.
Local and systemic metal ion release occurs intraoperatively during correction and instrumented spinal fusion for scoliosis
Authors: Cundy William J. , Mascarenhas Annika R. , Antoniou Georgia , Freeman Brian J. C. , Cundy Peter J.
Published: January 2015

Study design

Prospective pilot study.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to measure titanium, niobium and aluminium levels in various intraoperative and postoperative samples to determine patterns of metal ion release that occur within the first month following instrumented spinal fusion.

Summary of background data

Raised serum metal ion levels are reported following instrumented spinal fusion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The exact topological origin and chronology of metal ion release remains conjectural. Recent literature suggests an immediate rise in serum metal levels within the first postoperative week.

Methods

Titanium, niobium and aluminium levels were measured before, during and after surgery in serum and local intraoperative fluid samples obtained from two pediatric patients undergoing posterior correction and instrumentation for scoliosis.

Results

Measurable metal ion levels were detected in all local samples obtained from wound irrigation fluid, cell saver blood, and fluid that immersed metal universal reduction screw tabs. Postoperative serum metal ion levels were elevated compared to baseline preoperative levels. In general, metal ion levels were considerably higher in the intraoperative fluid samples compared to those observed in the serum levels.

Conclusion

Our findings of contextually high metal ion concentrations in intraoperative and early postoperative samples provide further empirical support of a ‘putting-in’ phenomenon of metal ion release following instrumented spinal fusion. This challenges existing beliefs that metal ion release occurs during an intermediate ‘wearing-in’ phase. We recommend thorough irrigation of the operative site prior to wound closure to dilute and remove intraoperative metal ion debris. Possibilities of filtering trace metal ions from cell saver content may be considered.
Self-stigma as a mediator between social capital and empowerment among people with major depressive disorder in Europe: The ASPEN study
Authors: Lanfredi M. , Zoppei S. , Ferrari C. , Bonetto C. , Van Bortel T. , Thornicroft G. , Knifton L. , Quinn N. , Rossi G. , Lasalvia A.
Published: January 2015

Introduction:

Individual social capital has been recognized as having an important role for health and well-being. We tested the hypothesis that poor social capital increases internalized stigma and, in turn, can reduce empowerment among people with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Materials and methods:

This is a cross-sectional multisite study conducted on a sample of 516 people with MDD in 19 European countries. Structural Equation Models were developed to examine the direct and indirect effects of self-stigma and social capital on empowerment.

Results:

Social capital and self-stigma accounted for 56% of the variability in empowerment. Higher social capital was related to lower self-stigma (r = –0.72, P < 0.001) which, in turn, partially mediated the relationship between social capital and empowerment (r = 0.38, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Social capital plays a key role in the appraisal of empowerment, both directly and through the indirect effect mediated by self-stigma. In order to improve empowerment of people with MDD, we identify strategies to foster individual social capital, and to overcome the negative consequences related to self-stigma for attainment of life goals.
Cognition and autonomic function in schizophrenia: Inferior cognitive test performance in electrodermal and niacin skin flush non-responders
Authors: Nilsson B.M. , Holm G , Hultman C.M. , Ekselius L.
Published: January 2015

Background:

Patients with schizophrenia suffer from a broad range of cognitive disturbances. The impact in terms of functional outcome is significant. There are also several reports of disturbed autonomic regulation in the disease. The present study examined cognitive function as well as psychophysiological parameters in patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls.

Methods:

Twenty-five patients and 14 controls were investigated with electrodermal activity (EDA), an oral niacin skin flush test and a comprehensive neurocognitive test program including the Wechsler battery (WAIS-R), Fingertapping Test, Trail Making Test, Verbal Fluency, Benton Visual Retention Test, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test.

Results:

The patients generally had inferior test results compared to controls. Further analysis revealed that the EDA non-responding patient group explained this variation with significant lower test results than controls. On executive tests, EDA non-responders also performed significantly worse than EDA responding patients. The small group of niacin non-responding patients exhibited an even lower overall test performance. Delayed niacin flush also correlated inversely with psychomotor function and IQ in the patients.

Conclusion:

The findings support the hypothesis of a neurodevelopment disturbance affecting both autonomic function and higher cortical function in schizophrenia.
Respiratory complexes III and IV can each bind two molecules of cytochrome c at low ionic strength
Authors: Moreno-Beltrán Blas , Díaz-Moreno Irene , González-Arzola Katiuska , Guerra-Castellano Alejandra , Velázquez-Campoy Adrián , De la Rosa Miguel A. , Díaz-Quintana Antonio
Published: January 2015

The transient interactions of respiratory cytochrome c with complexes III and IV is herein investigated by using heterologous proteins, namely human cytochrome c, the soluble domain of plant cytochrome c
1 and bovine cytochrome c oxidase. The binding molecular mechanisms of the resulting cross‐complexes have been analyzed by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Isothermal Titration Calorimetry. Our data reveal that the two cytochrome c‐involving adducts possess a 2:1 stoichiometry – that is, two cytochrome c molecules per adduct – at low ionic strength. We conclude that such extra binding sites at the surfaces of complexes III and IV can facilitate the turnover and sliding of cytochrome c molecules and, therefore, the electron transfer within respiratory supercomplexes.
Structural insights into the catalytic reaction that is involved in the reorientation of Trp238 at the substrate‐binding site in GH13 dextran glucosidase
Authors: Kobayashi Momoko , Saburi Wataru , Nakatsuka Daichi , Hondoh Hironori , Kato Koji , Okuyama Masayuki , Mori Haruhide , Kimura Atsuo , Yao Min
Published: January 2015

Streptococcus mutans dextran glucosidase (SmDG) belongs to glycoside hydrolase family 13, and catalyzes both the hydrolysis of substrates such as isomaltooligosaccharides and subsequent transglucosylation to form α‐(1 → 6)‐glucosidic linkage at the substrate non‐reducing ends. Here, we report the 2.4 Å resolution crystal structure of glucosyl‐enzyme intermediate of SmDG. In the obtained structure, the Trp238 side‐chain that constitutes the substrate‐binding site turned away from the active pocket, concurrently with conformational changes of the nucleophile and the acid/base residues. Different conformations of Trp238 in each reaction stage indicated its flexibility. Considering the results of kinetic analyses, such flexibility may reflect a requirement for the reaction mechanism of SmDG.
C‐peptide evolution: Generation from few structural restrictions of bioactivities not necessarily functional
Authors: Landreh Michael , Jörnvall Hans
Published: January 2015

The proinsulin C‐peptide has molecular, cellular and organismal activities but lacks disease‐associated mutations or short‐term loss‐of‐function effects. This dilemma between activity and function may be explained from its evolutionary setting with insulin as an ancestral partner. The charge, approximate length and flexibility of C‐peptide are all that is required for the insulin interactions, while remaining aspects are free to evolve, where new bioactivities can emerge. They can initially be transient, weak, and non‐functional, but may gradually be consolidated. In this manner, C‐peptide may have acquired multiple bioactivities, explaining why some yet have limited functions but could represent early‐stage hormonal‐like activities.
Glycan‐related gene expression signatures in breast cancer subtypes; relation to survival
Authors: Potapenko Ivan O. , Lüders Torben , Russnes Hege G. , Helland Åslaug , Sørlie Therese , Kristensen Vessela N. , Nord Silje , Lingjærde Ole C. , Børresen-Dale Anne-Lise , Haakensen Vilde D.
Published: January 2015

Alterations in glycan structures are early signs of malignancy and have recently been proposed to be in part a driving force behind malignant transformation. Here, we explore whether differences in expression of genes related to the process of glycosylation exist between breast carcinoma subtypes – and look for their association to clinical parameters.

Five expression datasets of 454 invasive breast carcinomas, 31 ductal carcinomas in situ (DCIS), and 79 non‐malignant breast tissue samples were analysed. Results were validated in 1960 breast carcinomas. 419 genes encoding glycosylation‐related proteins were selected.

The DCIS samples appeared expression‐wise similar to carcinomas, showing altered gene expression related to glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and N‐glycans when compared to non‐malignant samples. In‐situ lesions with different aggressiveness potentials demonstrated changes in glycosaminoglycan sulfation and adhesion proteins. Subtype‐specific expression patterns revealed down‐regulation of genes encoding glycan‐binding proteins in the luminal A and B subtypes. Clustering basal‐like samples using a consensus list of genes differentially expressed across discovery datasets produced two clusters with significantly differing prognosis in the validation dataset. Finally, our analyses suggest that glycolipids may play an important role in carcinogenesis of breast tumors – as demonstrated by association of B3GNT5 and UGCG genes to patient survival.

In conclusion, most glycan‐specific changes occur early in the carcinogenic process. We have identified glycan‐related alterations specific to breast cancer subtypes including a prognostic signature for two basal‐like subgroups. Future research in this area may potentially lead to markers for better prognostication and treatment stratification of breast cancer patients.
Ethical Considerations in Stem Cell Research on Neurologic and Orthopedic Conditions
Authors: Banja John Dennis
Published: January 2015

The range and gravity of ethical considerations in stem cell research are remarkable and, quite possibly, unprecedented. From the point of securing stem cells for implantation, through the translational and first‐in‐humans process, and then proceeding through clinical trials culminating in product or service line launch, the entire research trajectory is replete with risk, uncertainty, and problems overweighing foreseeable harms against hoped‐for benefits. This article offers an overview of some of the most salient ethical challenges of stem cell research, including ones involving moral status, the intersection of research risks and informed consent processes, methodologic considerations in early phase 1 trials, the temptation to exaggerate the benefits of research discoveries, managing conflicts of interest, and the ethical obligation to conduct various monitoring practices throughout a trial, which could last years. The article will conclude with a glimpse into the future of these technologies wherein the need for ethical scrutiny will likely not diminish.
Advanced Joystick Algorithms for Computer Access Tasks
Authors: Dicianno Brad E. , Mahajan Harshal , Cooper Rory A.
Published: January 2015

Objective

To compare 2 correction algorithms and 2 joysticks (a conventional movement‐sensing joystick and a custom‐designed isometric joystick) in computer access tasks.

Design

Repeated‐measures, within‐subject.

Setting

National Veterans Wheelchair Games.

Participants

Fifteen participants with various diagnoses including multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, Wilson disease, and Parkinson disease.

Methods

A computer access test scenario was used to evaluate the effects of applying proportional integral derivative (PID)–based and least means–based algorithms to suppress unintentional cursor motions by users with upper extremity spasticity.

Main Outcome Measures

Trial completion time, reaction time, and trajectory‐based measures: movement offset, movement variability, and percentage of out‐of‐path motion on test tracks.

Results

The quantitative outcome measures showed a high correlation with clinical measures for spasticity and functional independence. On small test tracks, compared to when no correction algorithms were used, both algorithms performed equally well in suppressing unintentional cursor motions. On longer test tracks, participants navigated most accurately while using the PID algorithm. Participants moved the cursor more accurately using the isometric joystick compared to the movement‐sensing joystick, with only a slight increase in the task completion times.

Conclusions

The joysticks and the advanced correction algorithms show promise for use in wide‐ranging applications as control interfaces.
Late Holocene Indian Summer Monsoon Variations Recorded at Lake Erhai, Southwestern China
Authors: Xu Hai , Zhou Xinying , Lan Jianghu , Liu Bin , Sheng Enguo , Yu Keke , Cheng Peng , Wu Feng , Hong Bin , Yeager Kevin M. , Xu Sheng
Published: January 2015

In this study we report changes in Indian summer monsoon (ISM) intensity during the past ~ 3500 yr inferred from proxy indices at Lake Erhai, southwestern China. Both the pollen concentrations and other proxy indices, including sediment grain size, total organic carbon contents (TOC), and elemental contents (e.g., Fe, Al), clearly indicate a long term decreasing trend in ISM intensity over the late Holocene. During the period from approximately AD 750 to AD 1200, pollen concentrations of conifer and broadleaf trees, and herbs reached the lowest levels over the past ~ 3500 yr; while the pollen percentages of both herbs and broadleaf trees increased, suggesting a significant medieval drought. The grain size, TOC, and elemental contents also support an arid climate during the medieval period. The Little Ice Age (LIA) at Lake Erhai was characterized as cold and wet. The medieval and LIA climatic patterns at Lake Erhai were similar to those over most of the ISM areas, but anti-phase with those over East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) areas. We suspect that sea surface temperature variations in the Indo-Pacific oceans and the related land-sea thermal contrasts may be responsible for such hydroclimatic differences between EASM and ISM areas.
Two Multiple Sclerosis Quality-of-Life Measures: Comparison in a National Sample
Authors: Moore Fraser , Vickrey Barbara , Fortin Kathy , Lee Liesly
Published: January 2015

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) has a profound impact on patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL). It is unclear how HRQoL can be best assessed for different purposes. This study aimed to compare two HRQoL questionnaires of differing lengths for feasibility of administration, patient perceptions and psychometric properties.Methods: This was an open-label, 24-month study in 334 patients with relapsing MS treated with subcutaneous interferon β-1a. At baseline and months 6, 12, 18 and 24, patients completed the Multiple Sclerosis International Quality of Life (MusiQoL) and Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQOL-54) questionnaires and compared them using an evaluation questionnaire. HRQoL scores over time and psychometric properties (correlations with clinical disease measures, relative validity and responsiveness to change) of the questionnaires were assessed.Results: A minority of patients had missing items on either HRQoL measure. Completion time was significantly shorter for MusiQoL versus MSQOL-54 (p<0.0001). Patients felt that MusiQoL was easier to use than MSQOL-54 but preferred MSQOL-54 in terms of thoroughness. Mean HRQoL scores increased significantly from baseline to 24 months; correlations of both measures were stronger with an anxiety and depression measure than with disability or recent relapse occurrence. Relative validity and responsiveness to change were similar for both instruments.Conclusion: The shorter MusiQoL is suitable for evaluating HRQoL in patients with MS and may be more practical to administer than the more thorough MSQOL-54.
Relationships among perceptions of organizational politics (POPs), work motivation and salesperson performance
Authors: Yen Wen-Wei
Published: January 2015

Salespersons differ from office workers in office time, work pressure and salary structure, thus their perceptions of organizational politics (POPs) and work motivations may also differ. Based on literature review and the expectancy theory of motivation, this study proposes three hypotheses: (1) POPs is positively related to salesperson performance, (2) POPs is positively related to salesperson work motivation and (3) there is mediator effect for work motivation in the relationship between POPs and salesperson performance. A questionnaire survey was conducted on four representative companies from the list of product manufacturers and service providers in Taiwan. The POPs and work motivation questions were answered by the salespersons, whereas the salespersons’ performance questions were assessed by the sales managers. A total of 850 questionnaires were distributed with 510 valid responses returned for hypotheses testing. The results support the three hypotheses, suggesting POPs can lead to improved salesperson performance, and this effect is mediated through work motivation. This new finding disagrees with the orthodox finding within the literature, which states that POPs and job performance for office workers are negatively correlated. The inconsistency may be ascribed to different work motivations between two groups of organizational members.
Achieving Human Perfection: Benjamin Franklin contra George Whitefield
Authors: HIGGINS NICHOLAS
Published: January 2015

Two competing strands of intellectual history, which arose from divergent interpretations of human nature, impacted the democratic tradition in the United States. This paper examines this divergence through a succinct comparison of Benjamin Franklin's and George Whitefield's teachings on human perfection. Whitefield's view of perfection is derived from Protestant Christianity and argues that man is called to constantly pursue a personal and earthly unattainable goal. Franklin sought to replace the religious view with one grounded upon enlightenment and sought to establish an earthly perfection, which aligned with his democratic ideal. This view of perfection was attainable to all through the education of the citizens of the new nation in a liberal tradition.
Identification ofToxoplasma gondiiantigens associated with different types of infection by serum antibody profiling
Authors: FELGNER JIIN , JUAREZ SILVIA , HUNG CHRIS , LIANG LI , JAIN AARTI , DÖŞKAYA MERT , FELGNER PHILIP L. , CANER AYŞE , GÜRÜZ YÜKSEL , DAVIES D. HUW
Published: January 2015

Acquisition of acute toxoplasmosis during the first trimester of pregnancy can have catastrophic consequences for the foetus. Diagnosis is routinely based on the detection of maternalToxoplasma gondii– antibodies using whole parasite extracts as detection antigen. While such assays are sensitive, they show no specificity for the stage of infection. We hypothesized diagnosis might be improved using recombinant antigens for detection, particularly if antibodies to certain antigen(s) were associated with early or late stages of infection. To address this, protein microarrays comprising 1513T. gondiiexon products were probed with well-characterized sera from seronegative (‘N’) controls, and acute (‘A’), chronic/IgM-persisting (‘C/M’) and chronic (‘C’) toxoplasmosis cases from Turkey. Three reactive exon products recognized preferentially in A infections, and three recognized preferentially in C/M infections, were expressed inEscherichia coliand tested for discrimination in IgG ELISAs. The best discriminators were exon 1 of TGME49_086450 (GRA5) which detected C/M infections with 70·6% sensitivity and 81·8% specificity, and exon 6 of TGME49_095700 (ubiquitin transferase domain-containing protein) which detected A infections with 84·8% sensitivity and 82·4% specificity. Overall, the data support a recombinant protein approach for the development of improved serodiagnostic tests for toxoplasmosis.
Residual nilpotence and ordering in one-relator groups and knot groups
Authors: CHISWELL I. M. , GLASS A. M. W. , WILSON JOHN S.
Published: January 2015

Let G = 〈x, t | w〉 be a one-relator group, where w is a word in x, t. If w is a product of conjugates of x then, associated with w, there is a polynomial Aw(X) over the integers, which in the case when G is a knot group, is the Alexander polynomial of the knot. We prove, subject to certain restrictions on w, that if all roots of Aw(X) are real and positive then G is bi-orderable, and that if G is bi-orderable then at least one root is real and positive. This sheds light on the bi-orderability of certain knot groups and on a question of Clay and Rolfsen. One of the results relies on an extension of work of G. Baumslag on adjunction of roots to groups, and this may have independent interest.
Distribution and antimicrobial resistance of enteric pathogens in Chinese paediatric diarrhoea: a multicentre retrospective study, 2008–2013
Authors: ZHANG H. , PAN F. , ZHAO X. , WANG G. , TU Y. , FU S. , WANG J. , PAN J. , SONG J. , WANG W. , JIN Z. , XU H. , REN Y. , LI Y. , ZHONG N.
Published: January 2015

The enteric pathogens causing diarrhoea impair children's health severely. This study retrospectively analysed 1577 pathogens isolated from inpatients and outpatients in six hospitals located in Northern (Inner Mongolia), Northeastern (Hebei), Eastern (Shanghai and Jiangsu), Southern (Hainan) and Central (Hubei) China between 2008 and 2013. Of the 1577 enteric pathogens, Salmonella presented with the highest frequency (36·0%), followed by diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli (23·7%), Staphylococcus aureus (15·0%), Shigella (13·1%), and Aeromonas (4·6%). The predominant pathogens varied in different regions of China, with Salmonella most prevalent in Shanghai and Hainan, diarrhoeagenic E. coli most prevalent in Inner Mongolia, Jiangsu and Hubei, and Shigella most prevalent in Hebei. Enteric pathogens were more frequently isolated in males (56·9%) than in females (43·1%). The highest proportion of all enteric pathogens was found in infants (67·6%) with a peak in summer and autumn (68·5%). Antimicrobial susceptibility assay demonstrated that Shigella was more resistant to ampicillin, ceftriaxone and sulfamethoxazole than Salmonella. Of the top two serotypes in Salmonella, Typhimurium was more resistant to ciprofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole and chloramphenicol than Enteritidis (P < 0·001). Meanwhile, the resistance rates of Shigella flexneri against ampicillin/sulbactam, ciprofloxacin, and chloramphenicol were significantly higher than those of Shigella sonnei (P < 0·001). Multidrug resistance was apparent in 58·2% of Shigella and 45·9% of Salmonella, and this phenomenon was more pronounced in S. flexneri.
Variability in diurnal testosterone, exposure to violence, and antisocial behavior in young adolescents
Authors: Peckins Melissa K. , Susman Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this report is to provide evidence of an association between within-person variability in diurnal testosterone over 1 year, lifetime exposure to violence, and the manifestation of antisocial behavior in 135 pubertal-aged adolescents across 1 year. Adolescents' sex and lifetime history of violence exposure moderated the association between within-person variability in diurnal testosterone and antisocial behavior. Furthermore, sex-stratified analyses revealed that lifetime history of exposure to violence moderated the association between within-person variability in diurnal testosterone and antisocial behavior in females only. This report is unique in that it illuminates sex differences inwithin-personassociations among exposure to violence, individual variability in diurnal testosterone, and antisocial behavior.
Results of remote follow-up and monitoring in young patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices
Authors: Silvetti Massimo S. , Saputo Fabio A. , Palmieri Rosalinda , Placidi Silvia , Santucci Lorenzo , Di Mambro Corrado , Righi Daniela , Drago Fabrizio
Published: January 2015

Background

Remote monitoring is increasingly used in the follow-up of patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices. Data on paediatric populations are still lacking. The aim of our study was to follow-up young patients both in-hospital and remotely to enhance device surveillance.

Methods

This is an observational registry collecting data on consecutive patients followed-up with the CareLink system. Inclusion criteria were a Medtronic device implanted and patient’s willingness to receive CareLink. Patients were stratified according to age and presence of congenital/structural heart defects (CHD).

Results

A total of 221 patients with a device – 200 pacemakers, 19 implantable cardioverter defibrillators, and two loop recorders – were enrolled (median age of 17 years, range 1–40); 58% of patients were younger than 18 years of age and 73% had CHD. During a follow-up of 12 months (range 4–18), 1361 transmissions (8.9% unscheduled) were reviewed by technicians. Time for review was 6±2 minutes (mean±standard deviation). Missed transmissions were 10.1%. Events were documented in 45% of transmissions, with 2.7% yellow alerts and 0.6% red alerts sent by wireless devices. No significant differences were found in transmission results according to age or presence of CHD. Physicians reviewed 6.3% of transmissions, 29 patients were contacted by phone, and 12 patients underwent unscheduled in-hospital visits. The event recognition with remote monitoring occurred 76 days (range 16–150) earlier than the next scheduled in-office follow-up.

Conclusions

Remote follow-up/monitoring with the CareLink system is useful to enhance device surveillance in young patients. The majority of events were not clinically relevant, and the remaining led to timely management of problems.
Preliminary results of CyberKnife stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) boost for primary head and neck cancers: is it the future direction?
Authors: Kataria Tejinder , Basu Trinanjan , Goyal Shikha , Abhishek Ashu , Gupta Deepak , Subramani Vikraman , Karrthick K. P. , Bisht Shyam S.
Published: January 2015

Aim

To analyse the preliminary results of CyberKnife stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) boost in primary head and neck cancer patients among Indian population.

Methods and materials

A total of nine patients of primary head and neck cancer were treated with CyberKnife SBRT boost after intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). The median phase 1 IMRT dose was 54 Gy/27 fractions. Histological types included squamous cell carcinoma (n=7) and adenoid cystic carcinoma (n=2). Response was evaluated using positron emission tomography/computed tomography and detailed clinical examination.

Results

As a preliminary analysis with median follow up of 8 months (range: 6–19 months), phase 2 median tumour volume of 16·3 cc and a median dose of 5 Gy per fraction, eight patients had loco-regionally stable disease and one had distant metastasis. With objective assessment five patients had complete response. Treatment was well tolerated with no grade 3 or more acute toxicities directly related to CyberKnife boost.

Conclusion

CyberKnife SBRT boost is an attractive option for primary head and neck cancers especially where disease is in close proximity to critical structures hindering radical dose delivery. Future prospective analysis and optimum assessment of total biological effective dose (BED) in a properly selected case might actually benefit the use of CyberKnife SBRT boost.
Do corruption measures have a perception problem? Assessing the relationship between experiences and perceptions of corruption among citizens and experts
Authors: Charron Nicholas
Published: January 2015

How well do corruption perception measures reflect actual levels of public sector corruption? Leading cross-national corruption perception measures have come under much theoretical and empirical scrutiny in recent years, with serious implications for the validity and reliability of the data in this ever growing sub-field. Critics argue that perceptions – in particular those of outside experts – do not reflect actual corruption in that they are far too ‘noisy’ or simply biased by external factors such as economic performance. Moreover, a number of recent empirical studies, focused on developing areas, have put forth evidence that outside expert assessments of corruption correspond little, if at all, with the experiences and views of actual citizens, and that such a lack of correspondence demonstrates pessimism for existing perception measures. This study offers a systematic analysis of the empirical strength of corruption perception measures in a previously unexplored area in this debate – Europe. Using new survey data collected by the author based on 85,000 European respondents in 24 countries, this issue is analyzed directly, addressing several contemporary critiques of the data. First, perceptions of citizens with, and without, personal corruption experience are compared at both the national and sub-national level in Europe. Second, external factors are checked, which might bias the extent to which citizens perceive corruption relative to how much actual corruption exists in countries and regions. Finally, expert perception indicators and citizen perceptions and experiences are compared. In summary, strong counter-evidence is found to the prevailing pessimistic claims in the literature – the consistency between actual reported corruption, as well as citizen and expert perceptions of corruption, is remarkably high and such perceptions are swayed little by ‘outside noise’. I conclude that, although existing corruption measures certainly have their share of problems, concerns regarding the validity and bias of perceptions have, perhaps, been overstated.