bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining metabolomics and transcriptomics to characterize tanshinone biosynthesis in Salvia miltiorrhiza
Authors: Gao Wei , Sun Hai-Xi , Xiao Hongbin , Cui Guanghong , Hillwig Matthew L , Jackson Alana , Wang Xiao , Shen Ye , Zhao Nan , Zhang Liangxiao , Wang Xiu-Jie , Peters Reuben J , Huang Luqi
Published: January 2014

Background

Plant natural products have been co-opted for millennia by humans for various uses such as flavor, fragrances, and medicines. These compounds often are only produced in relatively low amounts and are difficult to chemically synthesize, limiting access. While elucidation of the underlying biosynthetic processes might help alleviate these issues (e.g., via metabolic engineering), investigation of this is hindered by the low levels of relevant gene expression and expansion of the corresponding enzymatic gene families. However, the often-inducible nature of such metabolic processes enables selection of those genes whose expression pattern indicates a role in production of the targeted natural product.

Results

Here, we combine metabolomics and transcriptomics to investigate the inducible biosynthesis of the bioactive diterpenoid tanshinones from the Chinese medicinal herb, Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen). Untargeted metabolomics investigation of elicited hairy root cultures indicated that tanshinone production was a dominant component of the metabolic response, increasing at later time points. A transcriptomic approach was applied to not only define a comprehensive transcriptome (comprised of 20,972 non-redundant genes), but also its response to induction, revealing 6,358 genes that exhibited differential expression, with significant enrichment for up-regulation of genes involved in stress, stimulus and immune response processes. Consistent with our metabolomics analysis, there appears to be a slower but more sustained increased in transcript levels of known genes from diterpenoid and, more specifically, tanshinone biosynthesis. Among the co-regulated genes were 70 transcription factors and 8 cytochromes P450, providing targets for future investigation.

Conclusions

Our results indicate a biphasic response of Danshen terpenoid metabolism to elicitation, with early induction of sesqui- and tri- terpenoid biosynthesis, followed by later and more sustained production of the diterpenoid tanshinones. Our data provides a firm foundation for further elucidation of tanshinone and other inducible natural product metabolism in Danshen.
High throughput RNA sequencing of a hybrid maize and its parents shows different mechanisms responsive to nitrogen limitation
Authors: Bi Yong-Mei , Meyer Ann , Downs Gregory S , Shi Xuejiang , El-kereamy Ashraf , Lukens Lewis , Rothstein Steven J
Published: January 2014

Background

Development of crop varieties with high nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is crucial for minimizing N loss, reducing environmental pollution and decreasing input cost. Maize is one of the most important crops cultivated worldwide and its productivity is closely linked to the amount of fertilizer used. A survey of the transcriptomes of shoot and root tissues of a maize hybrid line and its two parental inbred lines grown under sufficient and limiting N conditions by mRNA-Seq has been conducted to have a better understanding of how different maize genotypes respond to N limitation.

Results

A different set of genes were found to be N-responsive in the three genotypes. Many biological processes important for N metabolism such as the cellular nitrogen compound metabolic process and the cellular amino acid metabolic process were enriched in the N-responsive gene list from the hybrid shoots but not from the parental lines’ shoots. Coupled to this, sugar, carbohydrate, monosaccharide, glucose, and sorbitol transport pathways were all up-regulated in the hybrid, but not in the parents under N limitation. Expression patterns also differed between shoots and roots, such as the up-regulation of the cytokinin degradation pathway in the shoots of the hybrid and down-regulation of that pathway in the roots. The change of gene expression under N limitation in the hybrid resembled the parent with the higher NUE trait. The transcript abundances of alleles derived from each parent were estimated using polymorphic sites in mapped reads in the hybrid. While there were allele abundance differences, there was no correlation between these and the expression differences seen between the hybrid and the two parents.

Conclusions

Gene expression in two parental inbreds and the corresponding hybrid line in response to N limitation was surveyed using the mRNA-Seq technology. The data showed that the three genotypes respond very differently to N-limiting conditions, and the hybrid clearly has a unique expression pattern compared to its parents. Our results expand our current understanding of N responses and will help move us forward towards effective strategies to improve NUE and enhance crop production.
Raman enhancement by graphene-Ga2O3 2D bilayer film
Authors: Zhu Yun , Yu Qing-Kai , Ding Gu-Qiao , Xu Xu-Guang , Wu Tian-Ru , Gong Qian , Yuan Ning-Yi , Ding Jian-Ning , Wang Shu-Min , Xie Xiao-Ming , Jiang Mian-Heng
Published: January 2014

2D β-Ga2O3 flakes on a continuous 2D graphene film were prepared by a one-step chemical vapor deposition on liquid gallium surface. The composite was characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The experimental results indicate that Ga2O3 flakes grew on the surface of graphene film during the cooling process. In particular, tenfold enhancement of graphene Raman scattering signal was detected on Ga2O3 flakes, and XPS indicates the C-O bonding between graphene and Ga2O3. The mechanism of Raman enhancement was discussed. The 2D Ga2O3-2D graphene structure may possess potential applications.

PACS

61.46.-w (structure of nanoscale materials), 68.65.Pq (graphene films), 74.25.nd (Raman and optical spectroscopy)
NitroDIGE analysis reveals inhibition of protein S-nitrosylation by epigallocatechin gallates in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated microglial cells
Authors: Qu Zhe , Meng Fanjun , Zhou Hui , Li Jilong , Wang Quanhui , Wei Fan , Cheng Jianlin , Greenlief C Michael , Lubahn Dennis B , Sun Grace Y , Liu Siqi , Gu Zezong
Published: January 2014

Background

Nitric oxide (NO) is a signaling molecule regulating numerous cellular functions in development and disease. In the brain, neuronal injury or neuroinflammation can lead to microglial activation, which induces NO production. NO can react with critical cysteine thiols of target proteins forming S-nitroso-proteins. This modification, known as S-nitrosylation, is an evolutionarily conserved redox-based post-translational modification (PTM) of specific proteins analogous to phosphorylation. In this study, we describe a protocol for analyzing S-nitrosylation of proteins using a gel-based proteomic approach and use it to investigate the modes of action of a botanical compound found in green tea, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), on protein S-nitrosylation after microglial activation.

Methods/Results

To globally and quantitatively analyze NO-induced protein S-nitrosylation, the sensitive gel-based proteomic method, termed NitroDIGE, was developed by combining two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis (2-D DIGE) with the modified biotin switch technique (BST) using fluorescence-tagged CyDye™ thiol reactive agents to label S-nitrosothiols. The NitroDIGE method showed high specificity and sensitivity in detecting S-nitrosylated proteins (SNO-proteins). Using this approach, we identified a subset of SNO-proteins ex vivo by exposing immortalized murine BV-2 microglial cells to a physiological NO donor, or in vivo by exposing BV-2 cells to endotoxin lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to induce a proinflammatory response. Moreover, EGCG was shown to attenuate S-nitrosylation of proteins after LPS-induced activation of microglial cells primarily by modulation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated oxidative stress response.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that NitroDIGE is an effective proteomic strategy for “top-down” quantitative analysis of protein S-nitrosylation in multi-group samples in response to nitrosative stress due to excessive generation of NO in cells. Using this approach, we have revealed the ability of EGCG to down-regulate protein S-nitrosylation in LPS-stimulated BV-2 microglial cells, consistent with its known antioxidant effects.
Does bearing size influence metal ion levels in large-head metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty? A comparison of three total hip systems
Authors: Smith James , Lee David , Bali Kamal , Railton Pam , Kinniburgh David , Faris Peter , Marshall Deborah , Burkart Brian , Powell James
Published: January 2014

Background

The purpose of the study was twofold: first, to determine whether there is a statistically significant difference in the metal ion levels among three different large-head metal-on-metal (MOM) total hip systems. The second objective was to assess whether position of the implanted prostheses, patient demographics or factors such as activity levels influence overall blood metal ion levels and whether there is a difference in the functional outcomes between the systems.

Methods

In a cross-sectional cohort study, three different metal-on-metal total hip systems were assessed: two monoblock heads, the Durom socket (Zimmer, Warsaw, IN, USA) and the Birmingham socket (Smith and Nephew, Memphis, TN, USA), and one modular metal-on-metal total hip system (Pinnacle, Depuy Orthopedics, Warsaw, IN, USA). Fifty-four patients were recruited, with a mean age of 59.7 years and a mean follow-up time of 41 months (12 to 60). Patients were evaluated clinically, radiologically and biochemically. Statistical analysis was performed on all collected data to assess any differences between the three groups in terms of overall blood metal ion levels and also to identify whether there was any other factor within the group demographics and outcomes that could influence the mean levels of Co and Cr.

Results

Although the functional outcome scores were similar in all three groups, the blood metal ion levels in the larger monoblock large heads (Durom, Birmingham sockets) were significantly raised compared with those of the Pinnacle group. In addition, the metal ion levels were not found to have a statistically significant relationship to the anteversion or abduction angles as measured on the radiographs.

Conclusions

When considering a MOM THR, the use of a monoblock large-head system leads to higher elevations in whole blood metal ions and offers no advantage over a smaller head modular system.
Autoantibodies to angiotensin and endothelin receptors in systemic sclerosis induce cellular and systemic events associated with disease pathogenesis
Authors: Kill Angela , Tabeling Christoph , Undeutsch Reinmar , Kühl Anja A , Günther Jeannine , Radic Mislav , Becker Mike O , Heidecke Harald , Worm Margitta , Witzenrath Martin , Burmester Gerd-Rüdiger , Dragun Duska , Riemekasten Gabriela
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Vasculopathy, inflammatory fibrosis and functional autoantibodies (Abs) are major manifestations of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Abs directed against the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) and endothelin-1 type A receptor (ETAR) are associated with characteristic disease features including vascular, inflammatory, and fibrotic complications indicating their role in SSc pathogenesis. Therefore, the impact of anti-AT1R and anti-ETAR Abs on initiation of inflammation and fibrosis was analyzed.

Methods

Anti-AT1R and anti-ETAR Ab-positive immunoglobulin G (IgG) from SSc patients (SSc-IgG) was used for experiments. Healthy donor IgG served as a normal control, and AT1R and ETAR activation was inhibited by antagonists. Protein expression was measured with ELISA, mRNA expression with real time-PCR, endothelial repair with a scratch assay, and collagen expression with immunocytochemistry. Transendothelial neutrophil migration was measured with a culture insert system, and neutrophil ROS activation with immunofluorescence. Neutrophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs) were analyzed microscopically after passive transfer of SSc-IgG or NC-IgG into naïve C57BL/6J mice. KC plasma levels were quantified by a suspension array system. Histologic analyses were performed by using light microscopy.

Results

Anti-AT1R and anti-ETAR Ab-positive SSc-IgG induced activation of human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1). Elevated protein and mRNA levels of the proinflammatory chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8, CXCL8) and elevated mRNA levels of the vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) were induced in HMEC-1. Furthermore, activation of HMEC-1 with SSc-IgG increased neutrophil migration through an endothelial cell layer and activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). SSc-IgG decreased HMEC-1 wound repair and induced type I collagen production in healthy donor skin fibroblasts. Effects of migration, wound repair, and collagen expression were dependent on the Ab-levels. Passive transfer of anti-AT1R and anti-ETAR Ab-positive SSc-IgG into naïve C57BL/6J mice increased neutrophil BALF counts. In parallel, increased levels of the murine functional IL-8 homologue, chemokine KC, were found in the plasma of SSc-IgG-treated mice as well as structural alterations of the lungs.

Conclusions

We conclude that angiotensin and endothelin-receptor activation via anti-AT1R and anti-ETAR Abs mediate pathogenic effects, indicating their contribution to pathogenesis of SSc. Therefore, anti-AT1R and anti-ETAR Abs could provide novel targets for therapeutic intervention in the treatment of SSc.
Targeting RET–interleukin-6 crosstalk to impair metastatic dissemination in breast cancer
Authors: Morandi Andrea , Isacke Clare M
Published: January 2014

RET (rearranged during transfection) is a receptor tyrosine kinase overexpressed in a subset of oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancers whose expression is regulated by ER signalling. The article from the Hynes group has reported for the first time that RET expression can also be regulated by the inflammatory cytokine IL-6. Importantly, RET and IL-6 interact at a functional level to control migration and the metastatic potential of ER-positive breast cancer cells, in a process that is mediated by FAK activation. Further, targeting RET with receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors was reported to be more effective than endocrine therapies in impairing metastatic dissemination in vivo, thereby indicating a level of RET regulation that is independent of ER.
Long-Term Results of Laparoscopic Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: A Large-Scale Case-Control and Case-Matched Korean Multicenter Study
Authors: Kim Hyung-Ho , Han Sang-Uk , Kim Min-Chan , Hyung Woo Jin , Kim Wook , Lee Hyuk-Joon , Ryu Seung Wan , Cho Gyu Seok , Song Kyo Young , Ryu Seong Yeob
Published: January 2014

Purpose

The oncologic outcomes of laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy for the treatment of gastric cancer have not been evaluated. The aim of this study is to validate the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer in terms of long-term survival, morbidity, and mortality retrospectively.

Patients and Methods

The study group comprised 2,976 patients who were treated with curative intent either by laparoscopic gastrectomy (1,477 patients) or open gastrectomy (1,499 patients) between April 1998 and December 2005. The long-term 5-year actual survival analysis in case-control and case-matched population was conducted using the Kaplan-Meier method. The morbidity and mortality and learning curves were evaluated.

Results

In the case-control study, the overall survival, disease-specific survival, and recurrence-free survival (median follow-up period, 70.8 months) were not statistically different at each cancer stage with the exception of an increased overall survival rate for patients with stage IA cancer treated via laparoscopy (laparoscopic group; 95.3%, open group: 90.3%; P < .001). After matching using a propensity scoring system, the overall survival, disease-specific survival, and recurrence-free survival rates were not statistically different at each stage. The morbidity of the case-matched group was 15.1% in the open group and 12.5% in the laparoscopic group, which also had no statistical significance (P = .184). The mortality rate was also not statistically significant (0.3% in the open group and 0.5% in the laparoscopic group; P = 1.000). The mean learning curve was 42.

Conclusion

The long-term oncologic outcomes of laparoscopic gastrectomy for patients with gastric cancer were comparable to those of open gastrectomy in a large-scale, multicenter, retrospective clinical study.
Hyaluronan Synthase 3 Variant and Anthracycline-Related Cardiomyopathy: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Wang Xuexia , Liu Wei , Sun Can-Lan , Armenian Saro H. , Hakonarson Hakon , Hageman Lindsey , Ding Yan , Landier Wendy , Blanco Javier G. , Chen Lu , Quiñones Adolfo , Ferguson Daniel , Winick Naomi , Ginsberg Jill P. , Keller Frank , Neglia Joseph P. , Desai Sunil , Sklar Charles A. , Castellino Sharon M. , Cherrick Irene , Dreyer ZoAnn E. , Hudson Melissa M. , Robison Leslie L. , Yasui Yutaka , Relling Mary V. , Bhatia Smita
Published: January 2014

Purpose

The strong dose-dependent association between anthracyclines and cardiomyopathy is further exacerbated by the co-occurrence of cardiovascular risk factors (diabetes and hypertension). The high morbidity associated with cardiomyopathy necessitates an understanding of the underlying pathogenesis so that targeted interventions can be developed.

Patients and Methods

By using a two-stage design, we investigated host susceptibility to anthracycline-related cardiomyopathy by using the ITMAT/Broad CARe cardiovascular single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array to profile common SNPs in 2,100 genes considered relevant to de novo cardiovascular disease.

Results

By using a matched case-control design (93 cases, 194 controls), we identified a common SNP, rs2232228, in the hyaluronan synthase 3 (HAS3) gene that exerts a modifying effect on anthracycline dose-dependent cardiomyopathy risk (P = 5.3 × 10−7). Among individuals with rs2232228 GG genotype, cardiomyopathy was infrequent and not dose related. However, in individuals exposed to high-dose (> 250 mg/m2) anthracyclines, the rs2232228 AA genotype conferred an 8.9-fold (95% CI, 2.1- to 37.5-fold; P = .003) increased cardiomyopathy risk compared with the GG genotype. This gene-environment interaction was successfully replicated in an independent set of 76 patients with anthracycline-related cardiomyopathy. Relative HAS3 mRNA levels measured in healthy hearts tended to be lower among individuals with AA compared with GA genotypes (P = .09).

Conclusion

Hyaluronan (HA) produced by HAS3 is a ubiquitous component of the extracellular matrix and plays an active role in tissue remodeling. In addition, HA is known to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) –induced cardiac injury. The high cardiomyopathy risk associated with AA genotype could be due to inadequate remodeling and/or inadequate protection of the heart from ROS-mediated injury on high anthracycline exposure.
Burnout and Career Satisfaction Among US Oncologists
Authors: Shanafelt Tait D. , Gradishar William J. , Kosty Michael , Satele Daniel , Chew Helen , Horn Leora , Clark Ben , Hanley Amy E. , Chu Quyen , Pippen John , Sloan Jeff , Raymond Marilyn
Published: January 2014

Purpose

To evaluate the personal and professional characteristics associated with career satisfaction and burnout among US oncologists.

Methods

Between October 2012 and March 2013, the American Society of Clinical Oncology conducted a survey of US oncologists evaluating burnout and career satisfaction. The survey sample included equal numbers of men and women and represented all career stages.

Results

Of 2,998 oncologists contacted, 1,490 (49.7%) returned surveys (median age of respondents, 52 years; 49.6% women). Among the 1,117 oncologists (37.3% of overall sample) who completed full-length surveys, 377 (33.8%) were in academic practice (AP) and 482 (43.2%) in private practice (PP), with the remainder in other settings. Oncologists worked an average of 57.6 hours per week (AP, 58.6 hours per week; PP, 62.9 hours per week) and saw a mean of 52 outpatients per week. Overall, 484 oncologists (44.7%) were burned out on the emotional exhaustion and/or depersonalization domain of Maslach Burnout Inventory (AP, 45.9%; PP, 50.5%; P = .18). Hours per week devoted to direct patient care was the dominant professional predictor of burnout for both PP and AP oncologists on univariable and multivariable analyses. Although a majority of oncologists were satisfied with their career (82.5%) and specialty (80.4%) choices, both measures of career satisfaction were lower for those in PP relative to AP (all P < .006).

Conclusion

Overall career satisfaction is high among US oncologists, albeit lower for those in PP relative to AP. Burnout rates among oncologists seem similar to those described in recent studies of US physicians in general. Those oncologists who devote the greatest amount of their professional time to patient care seem to be at greatest risk for burnout.
Yoga's Impact on Inflammation, Mood, and Fatigue in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kiecolt-Glaser Janice K. , Bennett Jeanette M. , Andridge Rebecca , Peng Juan , Shapiro Charles L. , Malarkey William B. , Emery Charles F. , Layman Rachel , Mrozek Ewa E. , Glaser Ronald
Published: January 2014

Purpose

To evaluate yoga's impact on inflammation, mood, and fatigue.

Patients and Methods

A randomized controlled 3-month trial was conducted with two post-treatment assessments of 200 breast cancer survivors assigned to either 12 weeks of 90-minute twice per week hatha yoga classes or a wait-list control. The main outcome measures were lipopolysaccharide-stimulated production of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and scores on the Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory-Short Form (MFSI-SF), the vitality scale from the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form (SF-36), and the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale.

Results

Immediately post-treatment, fatigue was not lower (P > .05) but vitality was higher (P = .01) in the yoga group compared with the control group. At 3 months post-treatment, fatigue was lower in the yoga group (P = .002), vitality was higher (P = .01), and IL-6 (P = .027), TNF-α (P = .027), and IL-1β (P = .037) were lower for yoga participants compared with the control group. Groups did not differ on depression at either time (P > .2). Planned secondary analyses showed that the frequency of yoga practice had stronger associations with fatigue at both post-treatment visits (P = .019; P < .001), as well as vitality (P = .016; P = .0045), but not depression (P > .05) than simple group assignment; more frequent practice produced larger changes. At 3 months post-treatment, increasing yoga practice also led to a decrease in IL-6 (P = .01) and IL-1β (P = .03) production but not in TNF-α production (P > .05).

Conclusion

Chronic inflammation may fuel declines in physical function leading to frailty and disability. If yoga dampens or limits both fatigue and inflammation, then regular practice could have substantial health benefits.
Skeletal Muscle Characteristics and Motor Performance After 2-Year Growth Hormone Treatment in Adults With Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Lafortuna Claudio L. , Minocci Alessandro , Capodaglio Paolo , Gondoni Luca A. , Sartorio Alessandro , Vismara Luca , Rizzo Giovanna , Grugni Graziano
Published: January 2014

Context:

In adults with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), abnormal body composition with decreased lean body mass and skeletal muscle (SM) volume has been related to altered GH secretion and may possibly contribute to greatly reduced motor capacity.

Objective:

The scope of the study was to test the hypothesis that GH treatment has favorable effects on SM characteristics and motor performance in adults with PWS.

Design, Setting, and Participants:

Fifteen obese PWS subjects (nine males and six females; age range, 19–35 y; body mass index, 37.7–59.9 kg/m2) were investigated before and after 12 (GH12) and 24 (GH24) months of GH treatment.

Main Outcome Measures:

SM cross-sectional area and SM attenuation were determined with computed tomography at the lumbar and midthigh levels. Maximal isometric handgrip strength and isokinetic knee extension peak torque were measured. Motor performance was evaluated with different indoor walking tests, whereas exercise endurance was assessed with a treadmill incremental test to exhaustion.

Results:

A condition of severe GH deficiency was found in six patients (40%). GH treatment significantly increased lean body mass (GH12, P < .05; GH24, P < .05), reduced percentage of body fat (GH12, P < .05; GH24, P < .05), and augmented SM cross-sectional area and SM attenuation of both lumbar (GH12, P < .01; GH24, P < .001) and thigh muscles (GH24, P < .05). Handgrip strength increased by 7% at GH12 (P < .05) and by 13% at GH24 (P < .001). Peak torque of knee extension extrapolated at zero angular velocity was significantly higher at GH24 (P < .01), and exercise endurance rose by 13% (P < .05) and 17% (P < .05) before exhaustion at GH12 and GH24, respectively, whereas no change was detected with walking tests. No significant difference in the response to GH treatment was detected between patients with and without GH deficiency.

Conclusion:

Long-term GH treatment in adult PWS patients improves body composition and muscle size and quality and increases muscle strength and exercise tolerance independently from the GH secretory status.
Energy Transfer from Sn2+ to RE3+ Cations in ZnO–P2O5 Glass
Authors: Masai Hirokazu , Hino Yusuke , Yanagida Takayuki , Fujimoto Yutaka , Yoko Toshinobu
Published: January 2014

The photoluminescence (PL) properties of rare earth (RE)-doped SnO–ZnO–P2O5 (RE-SZP) glass were examined in the visible region. RE-SZP glass, except for those doped with Ce3+, exhibited similar optical band edges because of the s–p transition in Sn2+. The RE3+ PL excitation bands in RE-SZP glass were red-shifted compared to the bands in Sn-free glass because of the energy transfer from the Sn2+ center. In addition, the emission intensity in a few RE-SZP glass systems was remarkably enhanced by Sn2+ addition. Emission decays of Sn2+ in the glass were typically independent of the RE3+, and suggest the exchange interaction between Sn2+ and RE3+. This indicated that the RE3+ cation is generally located close to the Sn2+ center in order to allow energy transfer.
Qualidade de vida e nível de atividade física de profissionais de saúde de unidades de terapia intensiva
Authors: Acioli Neto Afonso , Araújo Rodrigo , Pitangui Ana , Menezes Luciana , França Eduardo , Costa Emilia , Andrade Flávio , Correia Junior Marco
Published: January 2014

O baixo nível de atividade física aliado ao estresse constante na vida dos profissionais que trabalham em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) pode interferir diretamente na qualidade de vida (QV) e na saúde destes indivíduos. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se os domínios da qualidade de vida de profissionais de saúde que atuam em UTI’s diferem em função do nível de atividade física. Trata-se de um estudo transversal realizado em cinco UTI’s da região metropolitana do Recife. O nível de atividade física (NAF) foi avaliado pelo International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) e a QV foi analisada mediante o questionário Medical Outcomes Study 36 (SF-36), ambos aplicados em forma de entrevista. Foram considerados inativos 62,2% da população estudada em um total de 246 profissionais de saúde. Os enfermeiros foram considerados inativos (78%), seguidos dos médicos (75,9%), fisioterapeutas (58,3%) e técnicos de enfermagem (55,1%). Os indivíduos considerados ativos apresentaram maiores escores nos domínios capacidade funcional (86,1 ± 17,4 vs 79,0 ± 20,0; p = 0,01), vitalidade (71,2 ± 18,3 vs 62,9 ± 25,0; p = 0,01) e saúde mental (80,1 ± 13,3 vs 74,0 ± 14,2; p = 0,01), quando comparados aos inativos. Os escores de QV diferiram entre os profissionais de saúde classificados como ativos e inativos, sendo verificado melhores níveis de QV nos indivíduos fisicamente ativos.
Do Parents’ Social Skills Influence Their Children’s Sociability?
Authors: Okumura Tsunao , Usui Emiko
Published: January 2014

This article uses the U.S. National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 (NLSY79) to examine the effect of parents’ social skills on their children’s sociability. Similar to many other national surveys, this survey lacks detailed information on parents. To remedy this deficiency, we construct a measure of parents’ sociability skills based on their occupational characteristics extracted from the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT). Even after controlling for a variety of background characteristics, including cognitive skills, we find that the sociability relationships between fathers and sons and between mothers and daughters remain statistically significant. We find that the dollar value to the sons of a given increase in their fathers’ sociability is one-sixth of the value to the sons of the same standard-deviation increase in their fathers’ education.
Pd Supported on SnO2-Al2O3 Composite Supports for CO Oxidation – Designing Thermally Stable and Active Supports for Pd
Authors: Xu Xianglan , Wang Xiang , Li Yucheng , Tian Jinshu , Liu Wenming , Gao Zhixian
Published: January 2014

A series of SnO2-Al2O3 composite metal oxide
supports with different Sn/Al atomic ratios were synthesized with
co-precipitation method and used as supports for Pd to prepare
catalysts for CO oxidation. The samples were characterized by
N2 adsorption-desorption, CO adsorption-desorption, X-ray
Powder Diffraction (XRD), H2 temperature programmed
reduction (H2 TPR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
(XPS) techniques. It was found that Al3+ can be introduced
into the crystalline lattice of tetragonal rutile SnO2 to
effectively form solid solution structure. As a consequence,
SnO2-Al2O3 binary supports with significantly
improved thermal stability, enlarged surface areas, enhanced texture
structure and containing more active surface oxygen species can be
obtained. SnAl73, a support with a Sn/Al atomic ratio of 7/3, was
found to be the best support in this study due to its certain large
surface area and the presence of suitable amount of reducible oxygen
species. With this support, the two major reasons accounting for the
activity, that is, Pd dispersion and strong metal support interaction
(SMSI) between Pd and the support, is believed to be tuned
optimally. Water vapor has reversible effect on the CO oxidation
activity of Pd/SnAl73 catalyst, but which is mitigated evidently by
the presence of SnO2. In addition, no any permanent
deactivation occurs to Pd/SnAl73 catalyst during a 60 hours' test
in the presence or absence of water vapor, indicating this optimized
SnO2-Al2O3 support has a strong potential to be
applied in some practical processes for exhaust clean. In summary,
SnO2-Al2O3 composite metal oxides with suitable
Sn/Al atomic ratios are better supports than individual
Al2O3 and SnO2, on which less amount of Pd
could be used to achieve supported Pd catalysts with rival
performance.
Representation of “Broad” Falloff Curves for Dissociation and Recombination Reactions
Authors: Troe Jürgen , Ushakov Vladimir G.
Published: January 2014

Expressions for representing the pressure dependence of unimolecular
dissociation and the reverse recombination reactions are
compared. Situations are considered where the broadening of the
corresponding falloff curves is particularly pronounced, i.e. where
broadening factors at the center of the falloff curves,
F
cent, are very small and falloff curves correspondingly
become very “broad”. Such situations arise when unimolecular
reactions of molecules with large numbers of low-frequency modes and
high-temperature situations are considered. Recombination reactions of
polyatomic species in atmospheric chemistry and dissociation reactions
of large molecules in combustion are the fields of application of the
present results. While previously proposed expressions for asymmetric
broadening factors showed artifacts when F
cent decreased
to values below about 0.4, alternative functions are described which
avoid these problems for situations where F
cent decreases
to values far below 0.1.
Probe of the Replenishment Strategy and Grouping Rule in the Semiconductor Industry
Authors: Chang Yung-Chia , Chang Kuei-Hu , Lei Yi-Chieh
Published: January 2014

The theory of constraint suggests the application of a demand-pull replenishment strategy combined with buffer management (DPBM) in order to effectively manage inventory. A demand-pull strategy caters to the customers’ demand to drive inventory replenishment, while buffer management is designed to adjust target inventory levels (buffer size). However, there is very limited literature looking into the parameters of buffer management in depth, such as the timing and the amount of buffer adjusted. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the product demand characteristics that affect the parameters of choice in buffer management when applying the DPBM strategy. This study first used a DPBM strategy (implemented via simulation, based on historical demand data) under different buffer management parameters to simulate the inventory replenishment for multiple products. The products were then grouped according to the simulated results by statistical analysis. A decision tree was applied to find the critical demand pattern factors that determined the product groups. An appropriate DPBM strategy is suggested for each product group. This study uses real demand data for 21 products, provided by a wafer foundry company located in Taiwan, to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. The results show that it is possible to determine whether a product is suitable for DPBM strategy application after analyzing only its historical demand data.
Improved Rolling Dynamic Deflectometer for Continuous Pavement Deflection Measurements
Authors: Nam BooHyun , Stokoe Kenneth H.
Published: January 2014

Unlike discrete testing methods, the rolling dynamic deflectometer (RDD) performs continuous measurements. Thus, it is a powerful screening and evaluation tool for quickly characterizing large sections of highway and airfield pavements with little danger of missing critical pavement features. RDD testing applications have involved (1) pavement forensic investigations, (2) delineations of areas to be repaired, (3) selections of rehabilitation treatments, measurements of relative improvements due to the rehabilitation, and (4) monitoring of changes with time (trafficking and environmental loading). This paper discusses the efforts to improve the velocity of RDD testing up to 5 mph (8.0 km/h) while minimizing the accuracy and resolution of deflection data. The research consisted of the development of a velocity-improved rolling sensor and the field evaluation of its new sensor system. The velocity-improved rolling sensor and the enhanced data processing were tested in both flexible and rigid pavements at varied velocities. The enhanced RDD system potentially enabled testing velocities of up to 5 mph (8.0 km/h) in thin flexible pavements (i.e., farm-to-market roads) and up to 3 mph (4.8 km/h) in rigid pavements.
An Edge-Heating Device for Optical Measurement of Thermochromic Glazing Materials and Recommended Test Procedure
Authors: Jonsson Jacob C. , Goudey Howdy , Curcija Charlie
Published: January 2014

Thermochromic materials have optical properties that vary with temperature. To simulate energy performance of such materials, it is important to have spectral data in the solar range, 300–2500 nm, for each temperature that the material will have in the simulation. This paper describes a temperature control strategy that allows for measurement of reflectance and transmittance at a fixed temperature using a commercial spectrophotometer. A specimen frame is used to clamp heating strips to the surface at the edge of the sample that is being tested. Multiple thermocouples are used to monitor the temperature gradient over the sample as the center is cooler than the edge. Verification using an infrared (IR) camera and time-resolved transmittance measurements show that the center sample temperature is stable and how long it takes to achieve equilibrium. An interpolation method is described and verified to reduce the number of states that need to be measured. A recommended test procedure is described and used on two different materials.
Investigations on Wood–Plastic Composites Reinforced With Silica Particles Using Design of Experiment
Authors: Silva Alan Sousa , Martuscelli Carolina Coelho , Panzera Túlio Hallak , Ribeiro Borges Paulo Henrique , Christoforo André Luis
Published: January 2014

Incineration and landfilling of waste from the timber industry are practices condemned and unused. The reuse of wood waste as a dispersive phase in composite materials has been the focus of much research to develop new products, mainly for the automotive and construction industries. The wood–plastic composites (WPC) present characteristics, such as moderate strength, light weight, and high durability. Besides, they are inexpensive and sustainable, which make them attractive for innovative design. This work investigates the effect of eucalyptus sawdust, a chemical admixture and silica particles on the physical and mechanical properties of WPC upon a statistical methodology. The silica-particle addition was added by the matrix phase replacement to reduce the overall costs, because the latter is nearly 87 % more expensive. A microstructural analysis was conducted to better assess the variables studied. Results have shown that the composites made with 20 wt. % of sawdust addition, 10/50 US-Tyler sawdust particle size and maleic anhydride addition appeared to have acceptable properties for engineering applications.
Applications of Electromagnetic Waves for Void and Anomaly Detections
Authors: Xu Changjie , Chen Qizhi , Sun Fengming , Chen Darhao
Published: January 2014

Knowledge of the existing roadway condition is vital to transportation government agencies for management and safety purposes. Verifying the presence and extent of subsurface defects/voids is vital to prevent failures and accidents from occurring. A nondestructive and noninvasive geophysical method, ground penetrating radar (GPR), which utilizes electromagnetic waves, was employed in this study. Four field projects are presented in this study to demonstrate the application of electromagnetic waves for detection of voids and anomalies. Auguring and excavation were used to verify the suspicious areas that were located by the electromagnetic waves. Voids and different subsurface features, like rebar, geo-grid, and geo-textile, were successfully detected. A large negative peak that appears in the wave form is an indication of a dry void. Void sizes, ranging from a few centimeters to several meters, were successfully detected. Early identification of concealed subsurface voids under the roadway structure can prevent major failures from occurring. The methodologies presented in this study are applicable to many other projects.
MECHANISMS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: White, brown and pink adipocytes: the extraordinary plasticity of the adipose organ
Authors: Giordano Antonio , Smorlesi Arianna , Frontini Andrea , Barbatelli Giorgio , Cinti Saverio
Published: January 2014

In mammals, adipocytes are lipid-laden cells making up the parenchyma of the multi-depot adipose organ. White adipocytes store lipids for release as free fatty acids during fasting periods; brown adipocytes burn glucose and lipids to maintain thermal homeostasis. A third type of adipocyte, the pink adipocyte, has recently been characterised in mouse subcutaneous fat depots during pregnancy and lactation. Pink adipocytes are mammary gland alveolar epithelial cells whose role is to produce and secrete milk. Emerging evidence suggests that they derive from the transdifferentiation of subcutaneous white adipocytes. The functional response of the adipose organ to a range of metabolic and environmental challenges highlights its extraordinary plasticity. Cold exposure induces an increase in the ‘brown’ component of the organ to meet the increased thermal demand; in states of positive energy balance, the ‘white’ component expands to store excess nutrients; finally, the ‘pink’ component develops in subcutaneous depots during pregnancy to ensure litter feeding. At the cell level, plasticity is provided not only by stem cell proliferation and differentiation but also, distinctively, by direct transdifferentiation of fully differentiated adipocytes by the stimuli that induce genetic expression reprogramming and through it a change in phenotype and, consequently function. A greater understanding of adipocyte transdifferentiation mechanisms would have the potential to shed light on their biology as well as inspire novel therapeutic strategies against metabolic syndrome (browning) and breast cancer (pinking).
Periodic Fever in MVK Deficiency: A Patient Initially Diagnosed With Incomplete Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Thors Valtyr S. , Vastert Sebastiaan J. , Wulffraat Nico , van Royen Annet , Frenkel Joost , de Sain-van der Velden Monique , de Koning Tom J.
Published: January 2014

Mevalonate kinase deficiency (MKD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder causing 1 of 2 phenotypes, hyperimmunoglobulin D syndrome and mevalonic aciduria, presenting with recurrent fever episodes, often starting in infancy, and sometimes evoked by stress or vaccinations. This autoinflammatory disease is caused by mutations encoding the mevalonate kinase (MVK) gene and is classified in the group of periodic fever syndromes. There is often a considerable delay in the diagnosis among pediatric patients with recurrent episodes of fever. We present a case of an 8-week-old girl with fever of unknown origin and a marked systemic inflammatory response. After excluding infections, a tentative diagnosis of incomplete Kawasaki syndrome was made, based on the finding of dilated coronary arteries on cardiac ultrasound and fever, and she was treated accordingly. However, the episodes of fever recurred, and alternative diagnoses were considered, which eventually led to the finding of increased excretion of mevalonic acid in urine. The diagnosis of MKD was confirmed by mutation analysis of the MVK gene. This case shows that the initial presentation of MKD can be indistinguishable from incomplete Kawasaki syndrome. When fever recurs in Kawasaki syndrome, other (auto-)inflammatory diseases must be ruled out to avoid inappropriate diagnostic procedures, ineffective interventions, and treatment delay.
Sibship Size, Sibling Cognitive Sensitivity, and Children’s Receptive Vocabulary
Authors: Prime Heather , Pauker Sharon , Plamondon André , Perlman Michal , Jenkins Jennifer
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVES:

The aim of the current study was to examine the relationship between sibship size and children’s vocabulary as a function of quality of sibling interactions. It was hypothesized that coming from a larger sibship (ie, 3+ children) would be related to lower receptive vocabulary in children. However, we expected this association to be moderated by the level of cognitive sensitivity shown by children’s next-in-age older siblings.

METHODS:

Data on 385 children (mean age = 3.15 years) and their next-in-age older siblings (mean age = 5.57 years) were collected and included demographic questionnaires, direct testing of children’s receptive vocabulary, and videos of mother-child and sibling interactions. Sibling dyads were taped engaging in a cooperative building task and tapes were coded for the amount of cognitive sensitivity the older sibling exhibited toward the younger sibling.

RESULTS:

Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted and showed an interaction between sibship size and sibling cognitive sensitivity in the prediction of children’s receptive vocabulary; children exposed to large sibships whose next-in-age older sibling exhibited higher levels of cognitive sensitivity were less likely to show low vocabulary skills when compared with those children exposed to large sibships whose siblings showed lower levels of cognitive sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS:

Children who show sensitivity to the cognitive needs of their younger siblings provide a rich environment for language development. The negative impact of large sibships on language development is moderated by the presence of an older sibling who shows high cognitive sensitivity.
Diagnostic Performance of BMI Percentiles to Identify Adolescents With Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Laurson Kelly R. , Welk Gregory J. , Eisenmann Joey C.
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To compare the diagnostic performance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and FITNESSGRAM (FGram) BMI standards for quantifying metabolic risk in youth.

METHODS:

Adolescents in the NHANES (n = 3385) were measured for anthropometric variables and metabolic risk factors. BMI percentiles were calculated, and youth were categorized by weight status (using CDC and FGram thresholds). Participants were also categorized by presence or absence of metabolic syndrome. The CDC and FGram standards were compared by prevalence of metabolic abnormalities, various diagnostic criteria, and odds of metabolic syndrome. Receiver operating characteristic curves were also created to identify optimal BMI percentiles to detect metabolic syndrome.

RESULTS:

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in obese youth was 19% to 35%, compared with <2% in the normal-weight groups. The odds of metabolic syndrome for obese boys and girls were 46 to 67 and 19 to 22 times greater, respectively, than for normal-weight youth. The receiver operating characteristic analyses identified optimal thresholds similar to the CDC standards for boys and the FGram standards for girls. Overall, BMI thresholds were more strongly associated with metabolic syndrome in boys than in girls.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both the CDC and FGram standards are predictive of metabolic syndrome. The diagnostic utility of the CDC thresholds outperformed the FGram values for boys, whereas FGram standards were slightly better thresholds for girls. The use of a common set of thresholds for school and clinical applications would provide advantages for public health and clinical research and practice.
Evaluating Children With Fractures for Child Physical Abuse
Authors: Flaherty Emalee G. , Perez-Rossello Jeannette M. , Levine Michael A. , Hennrikus William L. ,   and the AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS COMMITTEE ON CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT,   SECTION ON RADIOLOGY,   SECTION ON ENDOCRINOLOGY,   SECTION ON ORTHOPAEDICS,   the SOCIETY FOR PEDIATRIC RADIOLOGY, Christian Cindy W. , Crawford-Jakubiak James E. , Flaherty Emalee G. , Leventhal John M. , Lukefahr James L. , Sege Robert D , Cassady Christopher I. , Bulas Dorothy I. , Cassese John A. , Mehollin-Ray Amy R. , Mercado-Deane Maria-Gisela , Milla Sarah Sarvis , Sills Irene N. , Bloch Clifford A. , Casella Samuel J. , Lee Joyce M. , Lynch Jane Lockwood , Wintergerst Kupper A. , Schwend Richard M. , Gordon J. Eric , Otsuka Norman Y. , Raney Ellen M. , Shaw Brian A. , Smith Brian G. , Wells Lawrence , Esposito Paul W.
Published: January 2014

This Clinical Report was revised. See https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2024-070074.

Fractures are common injuries caused by child abuse. Although the consequences of failing to diagnose an abusive injury in a child can be grave, incorrectly diagnosing child abuse in a child whose fractures have another etiology can be distressing for a family. The aim of this report is to review recent advances in the understanding of fracture specificity, the mechanism of fractures, and other medical diseases that predispose to fractures in infants and children. This clinical report will aid physicians in developing an evidence-based differential diagnosis and performing the appropriate evaluation when assessing a child with fractures.