bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Mortality and BMI After Fracture: A Population-Based Study of Men and Women Aged ≥40 Years
Authors: Prieto-Alhambra Daniel , Premaor Melissa O , Avilés Francesc Fina , Castro Alberto Soria , Javaid M Kassim , Nogués Xavier , Arden Nigel K , Cooper Cyrus , Compston Juliet E , Diez-Perez Adolfo
Published: February 2014

Fractures in obese older individuals contribute significantly to the overall burden on primary health care, but data on their impact on mortality are lacking. We studied the association between obesity and mortality following hip and nonhip clinical fractures in a retrospective, population-based cohort study. The Sistema d'Informació pel Desenvolupament de la Investigació en Atenció Primària (SIDIAPQ) database contains primary care computerized medical records of a representative sample of >2.1 million people (35% of the population) in Catalonia (Spain), linked to hospital admissions data. We included in this analysis anyone aged 40 years and older suffering a hip or nonhip clinical fracture in 2007 to 2009 in the SIDIAPQ database. The main exposure was the most recent body mass index (BMI) measured before fracture, categorized as underweight (<18.5 kg/m2), normal (18.5 to <25 kg/m2), overweight (25 to <30 kg/m2), and obese (≥30 kg/m2). Furthermore, the study outcome was all-cause mortality in 2007 to 2009 as provided to SIDIAPQ by the National Office of Statistics. Time to death after fracture was modeled using Cox regression. Multivariate models were adjusted for age, gender, smoking, alcohol intake, oral glucocorticoid use, and Charlson comorbidity index. Within the study period, 6988 and 29,372 subjects with a hip or nonhip clinical fracture were identified and followed for a median (interquartile range) of 1.17 (0.53–2.02) and 1.36 (0.65–2.15) years, respectively. Compared to subjects of normal weight, adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality in overweight and obese subjects were 0.74 (95% CI, 0.62–0.88; p = 0.001) and 0.74 (95% CI, 0.60–0.91; p = 0.004) after hip and 0.50 (95% CI, 0.32–0.77; p = 0.002), 0.56 (95% CI, 0.36–0.87; p = 0.010) after nonhip fracture. In conclusion, the highest mortality was observed in individuals with low BMI, but compared to subjects of normal weight, obese and overweight individuals survived longer following fracture. The latter observation is consistent with data reported in other chronic conditions, but the reasons for reduced mortality in obese and overweight subjects when compared to those of normal weight require further research. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Synthesis and Characterization of Naphthalene‐Based Banana‐Shaped Liquid Crystals for Photoswitching Properties
Authors: Rahman Md Lutfor , Yusoff Mashitah Mohd , Hegde Gurumurthy , Malek Muhammad Nor Fazli Abdul , Samah Nurlin Abu , Srinivasa H. T. , Kumar Sandeep
Published: February 2014

A series of banana‐shaped monomers containing naphthalene as central units, azobenzene in side arms with terminal alkenes were synthesized and characterized. Polarizing optical microscopy, DSC and X‐ray diffraction measurements reveal that one compound processes a nematic phase while other four compounds exhibit B6 phase. The absorption spectrum of trans‐azobenzene displays high‐intensity π‐π* transition at 365 and low‐intensity n‐π* transition at 450 nm. These molecules exhibit strong photoisomerisation behaviour in solutions in which trans to cis isomerisation takes 55 seconds whereas reverse process takes about 32 hours. Such a long thermal back relaxation is useful for creation of optical image storage devices.
MicroRNA‐338‐3p Regulates Osteogenic Differentiation of Mouse Bone Marrow Stromal Stem Cells by Targeting Runx2 and Fgfr2
Authors: Liu Huan , Sun Qin , Wan Chunyan , Li Lu , Zhang Lu , Chen Zhi
Published: February 2014

The elucidation of the molecular mechanisms that govern the differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) could provide new insight into the treatment of bone loss diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that regulate gene expression during stem cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. In the present study, we showed that miR‐338‐3p expression was significantly down‐regulated during the osteoblastic differentiation of BMSCs. Additionally, miR‐338‐3p was up‐regulated in ovariectomized (OVX) mice compared with sham mice. An in vitro analysis revealed that the over‐expression of miR‐338‐3p can inhibit the expression of osteoblast differentiation markers such as Osterix (Osx), thus reducing osteoblast differentiation. Bioinformatic analysis and dual luciferase assays confirmed that miR‐338‐3p can repress gene expression by targeting Runx2 and Fgfr2. In the BMSCs derived from OVX mice, the inhibition of miR‐338‐3p partially rescued mineralization and osteoblast differentiation. Taken together, our data show that miR‐338‐3p plays an important role during osteoblast differentiation of BMSCs and serves as a potential modulator of osteoporosis via its effect on osteoblasts. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 1494–1502, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microorganism‐mediated, CTAC‐directed synthesis of SERS‐sensitive Au nanohorns with three‐dimensional nanostructures by Escherichia coli cells
Authors: Jing Xiaolian , Huang Dengpo , Chen Huimei , Odoom‐Wubah Tareque , Sun Daohua , Huang Jiale , Li Qingbiao
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

The synthesis and application of novel Au nanostructures are of increasing importance in modern nanotechnology.

RESULTS

Closely packed and chemically difficult‐to‐synthesize Au nanohorns (AuNHs) were synthesized in the presence of Escherichia coli cells (ECCs) and hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC) by a microorganism‐mediated, CTAC‐directed (MCD) approach. A proper ECC dosage, ascorbic acid (AA) and CTAC concentrations were essential for the growth of the AuNHs. In the formation mechanism of the AuNHs the ECCs surface acted as a platform for preferential nucleation and initial anisotropic growth of Au nanocrystals. As a result, some of the adjacent nanoparticles over the cell surface connected together via linear fusion to form dendritic nanostructures. Meanwhile, secondary nucleation in the solution gave rise to smaller nanoparticles that were consumed later on via Ostwald ripening during the formation of the AuNHs. Eventually, the two‐dimensional film‐like nanostructures between adjacent cells easily connected to form well‐defined AuNHs with three‐dimensional nanostructures. Interestingly, the AuNH/ECC composites can be used directly as sensitive surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates for effective detection of 4‐mercaptobenzoic acid (MBA).

CONCLUSION

The MCD strategy was an effective approach to novel AuNHs and AuNH/microorganism nanocomposites as SERS substrate. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
MR pulse wave velocity increases with age faster in the thoracic aorta than in the abdominal aorta
Authors: Devos Daniel G.H. , Rietzschel Ernst , Heyse Catherine , Vandemaele Pieter , Van Bortel Luc , Babin Danilo , Segers Patrick , Westenberg Jos M. , Achten Rik
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To assess the difference between thoracic and abdominal aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) in apparently healthy subjects including young adults to elderly subjects.

Materials and Methods

We performed PWV and distensibility measurements and analysis of thoracic and abdominal aortic segments in 96 apparently normal subjects aged 20–80 years with magnetic resonance (MR). Both unadjusted correlation and General Linear Model (GLM) analysis of log‐transformed PWV (thoracic and abdominal aorta) and distensibility (four aortic cross‐sections) were performed.

Results

Both thoracic and abdominal PWV values and distensibility values increased with age. In unadjusted analyses the correlation between the ln(thoracic PWV) and age (r = 0.71; P < 0.001) was stronger than between ln(abdominal PWV) and age (r = 0.50; P < 0.001). In GLM analysis, the only determinant of thoracic and abdominal PWV was age (F = 42.5 and F = 14.8, respectively; both P < 0.001). Similarly, correlation between ln(distensibility) and age was strong (r = −0.79, r = −0.67, r = −0.71, and r = −0.65 for ascending, descending, diaphragmatic, and low abdominal aorta, respectively; all P < 0.001). In GLM analysis, age was the major determinant for distensibility of the ascending aorta (F = 81.7; P < 0.001), descending aorta (F = 42.2; P < 0.001), diaphragmatic aorta (F = 39.2; P < 0.001), and low abdominal aorta (F = 32.8; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The thoracic aorta is less stiff than the abdominal aorta in young and middle‐aged subjects, and stiffens more rapidly with age than the abdominal aorta, resulting in a stiffer thoracic than abdominal aorta at older age. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:765–772. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cytomegalovirus glycoprotein H genotype distribution and the relationship with hearing loss in children
Authors: Paradowska Edyta , Jabłońska Agnieszka , Studzińska Mirosława , Kasztelewicz Beata , Zawilińska Barbara , Wiśniewska‐Ligier Małgorzata , Dzierżanowska‐Fangrat Katarzyna , Woźniakowska‐Gęsicka Teresa , Kosz‐Vnenchak Magdalena , Leśnikowski Zbigniew J.
Published: February 2014

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a leading cause of congenital infection and a leading infectious cause of hearing loss in children. The ORF UL75 gene encodes envelope glycoprotein H (gH), which is essential for CMV entry into host cells and the target of the immune response in humans. However, the distribution of gH variants and the relationship between the viral genotype, viral load, and sequelae in children infected with CMV is debated. The UL75 genetic variation of CMV isolates from 42 newborns infected congenitally with CMV and 93 infants with postnatal or unproven congenital CMV infection was analyzed. Genotyping was performed by analysis of PCR‐amplified fragments, and the viral load was measured by quantitative real‐time PCR. There were no differences in the distribution of gH genotypes in the children infected congenitally and postnatally. Mixed‐genotype infections with both gH1 and gH2 variants were detected in approximately 25% of the examined patients. No relationship between UL75 gene polymorphisms and the symptoms at birth was observed. The results suggest that the infection with gH2 genotype diminishes the risk of hearing loss in children (P = 0.010). In addition, sensorineural hearing loss was associated with CMV gH1 genotype infection in infants (P = 0.032) and a high viral load in urine (P = 0.005). In conclusion, it was found that the gH genotype does not predict clinical sequelae in newborn infants following congenital CMV infection. However, these results suggest that the gH genotype might be associated with hearing loss in children. J. Med. Virol. 86:1421–1427, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
European degree‐day climatologies and trends for the period 1951–2011
Authors: Spinoni J. , Vogt J. , Barbosa P.
Published: February 2014

The global increase of temperature, together with more frequent severe winters and summer heat waves may lead to a change in energy consumption and agricultural production. Cooling, heating, and growing degree‐days (CDD,HDD, andGDD), respectively, are used to quantify the energy needed to condition or heat buildings, and to study the growing season. Using a new dataset made of 4023 dailyTN–TM–TXseries for the period 2001–2011 and 3897 monthlyTMhomogenized series for the period 1951–2011, we computedCDD,HDD,GDD, and Winkler Index (WI) for Europe. We developed a model that correlates degree‐days calculated with dailyTN–TM–TXdata with degree‐days obtained by monthlyTMdata, in the overlapping period 2001–2011. A set of parameters for each station was then applied to the corresponding 1951–2011 monthly records. We interpolated the parameters and the reconstructed degree‐day series onto a European 0.25° × 0.25° grid: with these gridded parameters, one can estimate the degree‐days for any European location if only monthlyTMis available. We present maps of HDD, CDD, GDD, and WI for the period 1951–2010. To validate them, we run a comparison in the Carpathian area using an independent dataset (from the CARPATCLIM project). The regional records show high correlations, especially for HDD (r> 0.99) and WI (r> 0.98). Subsequently, we performed a linear trend analysis on European and regional basis. HDD showed a significant decrease almost everywhere in Europe, whereas CDD, GDD, and WI showed a significant increase in particular in the last 30 years in the Mediterranean region. Moreover, WI indicated that new areas in France and central Europe became suitable for grape cultivation in the last decades.
Excellent local control with preoperative radiation therapy, surgical resection, and intra‐operative electron radiation therapy for retroperitoneal sarcoma
Authors: Stucky Chee‐Chee H. , Wasif Nabil , Ashman Jonathan B. , Pockaj Barbara A. , Gunderson Leonard L. , Gray Richard J.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To examine the value of surgical resection combined with preoperative external beam radiation therapy and intraoperative radiation therapy (Surg‐RT) for retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS).

Methods

Review of 63 consecutive patients with RPS from 1996 to 2011.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients (59%) underwent Surg‐RT and 26 (41%) had surgery alone. 51% of tumors were high grade and 36% of patients had locally recurrent disease. Final margin status was: R0 73%, R1 16%, R2 6%, and unknown 5%. Of those with R0 resections, 67% received Surg‐RT. Median follow‐up was 45 months. The 5‐year local control rate was 89% for Surg‐RT patients and 46% for surgery alone patients (P = 0.03). On multivariate analysis, Surg‐RT was the only variable associated with a lower risk of LR (HR 0.19; CI 0.05–0.69, P = 0.003). The actuarial 5‐year OS was 60% for patients receiving either Surg‐RT or surgery alone.

Conclusions

The combination of pre‐operative radiation, surgical resection, and intraoperative radiation produces excellent local disease control for RPS. Combination therapy was associated with improved local control but not with overall survival. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:798–803. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A monte carlo appraisal of plot and distance sampling for surveys of black grouse and rock ptarmigan populations in alpine protected areas
Authors: Franceschi Sara , Nelli Luca , Pisani Caterina , Franzoi Alessandro , Fattorini Lorenzo , Meriggi Alberto
Published: February 2014

We used distance sampling to assess density and the detectability of male black grouse (Tetrao tetrix) and rock ptarmigan (Lagopus muta) in 2 protected areas of the Italian Alps. Our sampling effort was not sufficient to provide reliable inference for monitoring projects. Therefore, we used our field results to structure a simulation study to compare the performance of plot‐based and distance sampling estimators of density. These 2 methods have different assumptions: plot sampling assumes a perfect detection of animals within the surveyed plots, whereas distance sampling assumes a decrease in detectability as the distance between observer and animal increases. The density and the detectability conditions adopted in the simulation were designed to be similar to those observed in our 2 studies, whereas the spatial patterns presumed for the simulated populations described a wide range of possible scenarios. Sampling points were allocated according to both random and stratified distributions. Simulation results showed that plot sampling underestimated density with bias invariably greater than 30% and confidence intervals with coverage lower than the nominal level of 95%. Conversely, distance sampling estimators provided bias levels invariably smaller than those obtained using plot sampling and bootstrap confidence intervals with empirical coverage near to or greater than 95%. Based on our simulations, the distance sampling estimator was superior to the plot sampling estimator for these grouse species on our study areas in terms of precision and accuracy and the stratified allocation was superior to the random allocation. However, distance sampling would be very costly to implement. Based on our simulations, 4–5 points per km2would be necessary to achieve reliable estimates of density and density changes. If distance sampling cannot be completed at this intensity, other sampling methods should be adopted. © 2014 The Wildlife Society.
Ex vivo laser thermoplasty of whole costal cartilages
Authors: Sviridov Alexander P. , Zakharkina Olga L. , Ignatieva Natalia Yu. , Vorobieva Natalia N. , Bagratashvili Nodar V. , Plyakin Vladimir A. , Kulik Innokentii O. , Sarukhanyan Oganes O. , Minaev Vladimir P. , Lunin Valerii V. , Bagratashvili Victor N.
Published: February 2014

Background and Objective

To examine the possibilities of laser thermoplasty of whole costal cartilages for correction the human congenital chest wall deformities.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Ex vivo the samples of porcine costal cartilages were heated with lasers of differing wavelengths, including a 0.97‐μm diode laser, a 1.56‐μm erbium‐doped quartz fiber laser, and a 1.68‐μm fiber Raman laser. The dynamics of the temperature fields and the degradation of collagen in the laser‐affected regions of samples were determined by using, respectively, thermometry, trypsin treatment, and light microscopy. Ex vivo the whole mechanically deformed costal cartilages of pigs were treated by laser radiation with wavelength 1.68‐μm. The changes of cartilage shape were recorded at certain intervals over a 24‐hour period by photographing them in a fixed position with a digital camera.

Results

Treatment of costal cartilage samples from 5 to 11 mm in thickness by laser radiation with 0.97, 1.56, and 1.68 μm wavelengths showed that the 1.68‐μm radiation could produce the necessary nonuniform bulk heating of the exposed sample. The altered shape of costal cartilage proved to remain stable after treatment when the laser irradiation settings used provided for the heating of a broad region within the tissue to temperatures about 80°C.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the possibilities of laser thermoplasty of whole costal cartilages for treatment of human congenital chest wall deformities. The development of novel approaches based on laser cartilage engineering techniques will enable to treat the human congenital chest wall deformities. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:302–309, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determination of Oxygen Permeability in Acrylic‐Based Hydrogels by Proton NMR Spectroscopy and Imaging
Authors: Compañ Vicente , Mollá Sergio , Vallejos Saúl , García Félix , García José Miguel , Guzmán Julio , Garrido Leoncio
Published: February 2014

Polymer network membranes with a high capacity for water absorption are obtained by radical polymerization ofN‐[2‐(2‐hydroxyethoxy)ethyl]methacrylamide (HEEMAM). The permeability, solubility, and diffusion coefficients of oxygen in hydrogels are determined using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods based on the paramagnetic effect of dissolved oxygen gas on the proton spin‐lattice relaxation times of water, and the results are compared with those obtained with electrochemical procedures. The results of NMR measurements of oxygen transport coefficients in distilled water show excellent agreement with corresponding literature values. The results of the potentiostatic and NMR oxygen transport measurements in hydrogels are in reasonable agreement and support the viability of the NMR method.

image
Poly(2‐vinyl pyridine)‐block‐Poly(ethylene oxide) Featuring a Furan Group at the Block Junction—Synthesis and Functionalization
Authors: Rudolph Tobias , Barthel Markus J. , Kretschmer Florian , Mansfeld Ulrich , Hoeppener Stephanie , Hager Martin D. , Schubert Ulrich S. , Schacher Felix H.
Published: February 2014

Furfuryl glycidyl ether (FGE) represents a highly versatile monomer for the preparation of reversibly cross‐linkable nanostructured materials via Diels–Alder reactions. Here, the use of FGE for the mid‐chain functionalization of a P2VP‐b‐PEO diblock copolymer is reported. The material features one furan moiety at the block junction, P2VP68‐FGE‐b‐PEO390, which can be subsequently addressed in Diels–Alder reactions using maleimide‐functionalized counterparts. The presence of the FGE moiety enables the introduction of dyes as model labels or the formation of hetero‐grafted brushes as shell on hybrid Au@Polymer nanoparticles. This renders P2VP68‐FGE‐b‐PEO390, a powerful tool for selective functionalization reactions, including the modification of surfaces.

image
The source of the memory impairment in Parkinson's disease: Acquisition versus retrieval
Authors: Chiaravalloti Nancy D. , Ibarretxe‐Bilbao Naroa , DeLuca John , Rusu Olga , Pena Javier , García‐Gorostiaga Inés , Ojeda Natalia
Published: February 2014

Memory deficits are common in persons with Parkinson's disease (PD) even without the presence of a frank dementia. These memory deficits have traditionally been attributed to inability of patients to retrieve information from long‐term memory, referred to as the “retrieval failure hypothesis.” However, some studies additionally document problems in recognition memory, noted to be inconsistent with the retrieval failure hypothesis. Given the neuroanatomical abnormalities observed in the hippocampus of PD patients and the role of the hippocampus in learning new information, the current study was designed to specifically examine learning abilities in a nondemented PD sample through the application of a learning paradigm, the Open Trial Selective Reminding Test. We examined 27 patients with PD without dementia and 27 age‐, gender‐, and education‐matched healthy controls (HCs) with a neuropsychological test battery designed to assess new learning and memory. Results indicated a significant difference between the groups in terms of their ability to learn a list of 10 semantically related words. However, once the groups were equated on learning abilities, no significant difference was noted between the PD and HC participants in recall or recognition of the newly learned material. The memory deficit observed in nondemented PD patients is thus largely the result of a deficit in learning new information. This finding should be used to guide treatment for memory deficits in persons with PD, and future research should seek to identify novel means of improving new learning in this population. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Global existence of strong solutions to micropolar equations in cylindrical domains
Authors: Nowakowski Bernard
Published: February 2014

The micropolar equations are a useful generalization of the classical Navier–Stokes model for fluids with microstructure. We prove the existence of global and strong solutions to these equations in cylindrical domains in . We do not impose any restrictions on the magnitude of the initial and external data, but we require that they cannot change in the x3‐direction too fast. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The play operator, the truncated variation and the generalisation of the Jordan decomposition
Authors: Łochowski R. , Ghomrasni R.
Published: February 2014

The play operator minimalizes the total variation on intervals, [0,T],T > 0, of functions approximating uniformly given regulated function with given accuracy and starting from a given point. In this article, we link the play operator with the so‐called truncated variation functionals, introduced recently by the second‐named author, and provide a semi‐explicit expression for the play operator in terms of these functionals. Generalisation for time‐dependent boundaries is also considered. This gives the best possible lower bounds for the total variation of the outputs of the play operator and its Jordan‐like decomposition. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exponential decay for a von Kármán equations of memory type with acoustic boundary conditions
Authors: Kang Jum‐Ran
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we consider the dynamical von Kármán equations of memory type with acoustic boundary conditions. We show an exponential decay result of solutions under weaker assumption than the ones frequently used in the literature. In particular, the kernel we are considering is not necessarily exponentially decaying to zero as was assumed before. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recruitment of mental health survey participants using Internet advertising: content, characteristics and cost effectiveness
Authors: Batterham Philip J.
Published: February 2014

Postal and telephone survey research is threatened by declining response rates and high cost. Online recruitment is becoming more popular, although there is little empirical evidence about its cost‐effectiveness or the representativeness of online samples. There is also limited research on optimal strategies for developing advertising content for online recruitment. The present study aimed to assess these aspects of online recruitment. Two mental health surveys used advertisements within a social network website (Facebook) to recruit adult Australian participants. The initial survey used advertisements linking directly to an external survey website, and recruited 1283 participants at $9.82 per completed survey. A subsequent survey used advertisements linking to a Facebook page that featured links to the external survey, recruiting 610 participants at $1.51 per completion. Both surveys were more cost‐effective than similar postal surveys conducted previously, which averaged $19.10 per completion. Online and postal surveys both had somewhat unrepresentative samples. However, online surveys tended to be more successful in recruiting hard‐to‐reach populations. Advertising using “problem” terminology was more effective than “positive” terminology, while there was no significant effect of altruistic versus self‐gain terminology. Online recruitment is efficient, flexible and cost‐effective, suggesting that online recruitment has considerable potential for specific research designs. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic Olefin Polymerization Process Modeling: Multi‐Scale Approach and Modeling Guidelines for Micro‐Scale/Kinetic Modeling
Authors: Touloupidis Vasileios
Published: February 2014

The scope of this work is to explain the multi‐scale polymerization process modeling framework, comprising of polymerization kinetics (micro‐scale), system thermodynamics (meso‐scale), and reactor performance (macro‐scale) as well as to present the methodology for developing a mathematical model for catalytic olefin polymerization. Guidelines for tuning the kinetic model parameters are proposed. This review aims to provide basic knowledge and understanding regarding catalytic olefin polymerization kinetics and offers the starter‐kit tools for developing similar works.
Restrictive lung involvement in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
Authors: Scully Michele A. , Eichinger Katy J. , Donlin‐Smith Colleen M. , Tawil Rabi , Statland Jeffery M.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Few studies have evaluated the frequency or predisposing factors for respiratory involvement in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 (FSHD1) and type 2 (FSHD2). Methods: We performed a prospective cross‐sectional observational study of 61 genetically confirmed FSHD participants (53 FSHD1 and 8 FSHD2). Participants underwent bedside pulmonary function testing in sitting and supine positions, a standard clinical history and physical assessment, and manual muscle testing. Results: Restrictive respiratory involvement was suggested in 9.8% (95% confidence interval 2.4–17.3): 7.5% FSHD1 and 25.0% FSHD2 (P = 0.17). Participants with testing suggestive of restrictive lung involvement (n = 6) were more severely affected (P = 0.005), had weaker hip flexion (P = 0.0007), and were more likely to use a wheelchair (P = 0.01). Conclusions: Restrictive respiratory involvement should be considered in all moderate to severely affected FSHD patients with proximal lower extremity weakness. The higher frequency of restrictive lung disease in FSHD2 seen here requires confirmation in a larger cohort of FSHD2 patients. Muscle Nerve 50: 739–743, 2014
Improved immunoblotting methods provide critical insights into phenotypic differences between two murine dysferlinopathy models
Authors: Mueller Amber L. , Desmond Patrick F. , Hsia Ru‐ching , Roche Joseph A.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: We adopted a proteomics‐based approach to gain insights into phenotypic differences between A/J and B10.SJL murine dysferlinopathy models. Methods: We optimized immunoblotting of dysferlin by preparing homogenates of the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle under several different conditions. We compared TA muscles of control, A/J, and B10.SJL mice for levels of dysferlin; dysferlin's partners MG53, annexin‐A2, and caveolin‐3; and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker CHOP. We performed immunoelectron microscopy on control rat TA muscle to determine the precise location of dysferlin. Results: RIPA (radioimmunoprecipitation assay) buffer and sonication improves immunoblotting of dysferlin. The ER stress marker CHOP is elevated in A/J muscle. Dysferlin is localized mostly to membranes close to the Z‐disk that have been reported to be part of the Golgi, ER, and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) networks. Conclusions: ER stress might underlie phenotypic differences between A/J and B10.SJL mice and play a role in human dysferlinopathies. Muscle Nerve 50:286–289, 2014
Skeletal muscle oxidative capacity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Ryan Terence E. , Erickson Melissa L. , Verma Ajay , Chavez Juan , Rivner Michael H. , Mccully Kevin K.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Mitochondrial dysfunction in the motor neuron has been suspected in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). If mitochondrial abnormalities are also found in skeletal muscle, assessing skeletal muscle could serve as an important biomarker of disease progression. Methods: Using 31P magnetic resonance (31P‐MRS) and near infrared (NIRS) spectroscopy, we compared the absolute values and reproducibility of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity in people with ALS (n = 6) and healthy adults (young, n = 7 and age‐matched, n = 4). Results: ALS patients had slower time constants for phosphocreatine (PCr) and muscle oxygen consumption (mVO2) compared with young, but not age‐matched controls. The coefficient of variation for the time constant was 10% (SD = 2.8%) and 17% (SD = 6.2%) for PCr and mVO2, respectively. Conclusions: People with ALS had, on average, a small but not statistically significant, impairment in skeletal muscle mitochondrial function measured by both 31P‐MRS and NIRS. Both methods demonstrated good reproducibility. Muscle Nerve 50: 767–774, 2014
New links between S‐acylation and cancer
Authors: Greaves Jennifer , Chamberlain Luke H
Published: February 2014

S‐acylation (also known as palmitoylation) is a major post‐translational protein modification in all eukaryotic cells, involving the attachment of fatty acids onto cysteine residues. A variety of structural and signalling proteins are modified in this way, affecting their stability, membrane association and intracellular targeting. The enzymes that mediate S‐acylation are encoded by genes belonging to the large (> 20 genes) ZDHHC family. The importance of these enzymes for normal physiological function is highlighted by their links to a diverse range of disease states, including neurological disorders, such as Huntington's disease, schizophrenia and intellectual disability, and diabetes and cancer. The recent study by Yeste‐Velasco et al published in the Journal of Pathology highlights a novel tumour suppressor function for the zDHHC family: expression of zDHHC14 is decreased in testicular germ cell tumours, prostate cancer and a variety of other cancer types. This important finding further emphasizes the emerging clinical significance of the zDHHC family of S‐acylation enzymes. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
De‐escalation of therapy for pediatric medulloblastoma: Trade‐offs between quality of life and survival
Authors: Henrich Natalie , Marra Carlo A. , Gastonguay Louise , Mabbott Donald , Malkin David , Fryer Chris , Bouffet Eric , Taylor Michael D. , Hukin Juliette , Scantlebury Nadia , Lynd Larry
Published: February 2014

Background

Treatment intensity for pediatric medulloblastoma may vary depending on the type of medulloblastoma. In some cases, the dose of radiation may be reduced or eliminated. Correspondingly, there may be trade‐offs between quality of life and survival. In this study, focus groups were conducted with parents and clinicians to explore their opinions about these trade‐offs as well as the alignment/misalignment between parents and clinicians regarding the trade‐offs.

Methods

One hour semi‐structured focus groups were conducted with parents of children with medulloblastoma and health care providers who were involved in the care of these children.

Results

Parents and providers showed differences in which factors they believe have the greatest impact on quality of life for children with medulloblastoma and their families. For parents, the most important factor is social functioning and their child's ability to make friends and have a social life. In contrast, providers thought that parents cared most about their child's cognitive functioning and ability to attend and perform in school.

Conclusion

Understanding parents' perspectives on quality of life is important in terms of providing support services that target the areas that the parents prioritize. The types of functioning that are most strongly correlated with quality of life from the parents' perspective may be the ones that should be targeted to protect during treatment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1300–1304. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis, characterization, and properties of hydroxyl‐terminated copolysiloxanes containing γ‐cyanopropyl groups
Authors: Hu Tao , Dai Lina , Gao Xiyin , Xie Jiang , Xie Wenchun , Xie Zemin , Zhang Zhijie
Published: February 2014

A series of random copolysiloxanes (PCDMS) containing various amount of γ‐cyanopropyl groups are prepared by a new method under mild conditions. Structures of the synthesized polymers are fully characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, 29Si NMR, and GPC. Rheological properties of PCDMS are tested by cone and plate rheometer, and thermal properties by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry analysis (TGA). Damping properties as well as fuel resistance of the cured PCDMS elastomers are also tested. The correlation between chemical structure, content of cyanopropyl group and properties are discussed. With the increasing amount of polar cyanopropyl group introduced, glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the synthesized PCDMS gradually increases from −121 to −65 °C, residual weight increases from 0 to 36% at 800°C, loss factor reaches as high as 1.74, mass increase under fuel immersion for 14 days can be as low as 3.6%. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1408–1421
Science and Engineering of Graphene Oxide
Authors: Galande Charudatta , Gao Wei , Mathkar Akshay , Dattelbaum Andrew M. , Narayanan Tharangattu N. , Mohite Aditya D. , Ajayan Pulikel M.
Published: February 2014

Functional and synthesis diversity of graphene oxide (GO) has led to various fundamental and applied scientific explorations. GO can be viewed as an in‐plane, hybrid 2D lattice consisting of sp2 and sp3 carbon regions. Engineering the type and distribution of sp3 regions can tune the physical properties of resultant GO. This article reviews the development in the field of GO since the 19th century, with a thorough discussion on its status after the discovery of graphene in last decade. Detailed structure, optical properties, electrochemical behavior, and its viability for biological applications are discussed from both a scientific and technological perspective and a future outlook for GO research is presented.
Blessing or curse? Proteomics in granzyme research
Authors: Joeckel Lars T. , Bird Phillip I.
Published: February 2014

Granzymes (gzms) are a group of serine proteases that play an important role in innate and adaptive immunity, blood coagulation, apoptosis, and inflammation, but are also connected to atherosclerosis, diabetes, cardiovascular and inflammatory lung diseases, cancer, and sepsis. Humans have five gzms (gzms A, B, H, K, and M), which differ in their substrate specificity. It is widely accepted that they are delivered from cytotoxic lymphocytes via perforin into the cytoplasm of target cells where they initiate cell death, modulate cytokine signaling, or inactivate pathogen proteins. However, more recent evidence indicates gzms also act extracellularly in noncytotoxic processes. Proteomic approaches are directed at mapping gzm cleavage specificity, identifying substrates, and unraveling the (patho‐) physiological role of these proteases. These studies have refined our understanding of gzm species specificity, and collectively uncovered an enormous number of new substrates. However, with the exception of a very few human gzmB substrates supported by independent data (Bid, DNA‐PK, PARP, ICAD, and procaspase 7), it is presently unclear which are physiologically relevant. This review aims to summarize and analyze the different proteomic approaches used and discuss both their convincing and controversial outcomes.
Interleukin‐18 may lead to benign prostatic hyperplasia via thrombospondin‐1 production in prostatic smooth muscle cells
Authors: Hamakawa Takashi , Sasaki Shoichi , Shibata Yasuhiro , Imura Makoto , Kubota Yasue , Kojima Yoshiyuki , Kohri Kenjiro
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

Although inflammation plays an important role in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), little is known about the exact mechanism underlying this pathogenesis. Here, we investigated the relationship between the inflammatory reaction and BPH.

METHODS

cDNA microarray analysis was used to identify changes in inflammation‐related gene expression in a recently established rat model that mimics human BPH. To investigate the genes identified in the analysis, quantitative (q)RT‐PCR, Western blotting, immunostaining, and a cell proliferation assay were conducted using BPH model tissues, human prostate tissues, and normal human prostate cultured cells.

RESULTS

Of the 31,100 genes identified in the cDNA analysis, seven inflammatory‐response‐related genes were expressed at a >2‐fold higher level in rat BPH tissues than in normal rat prostate tissues. The levels of the most commonly expressed pro‐inflammatory cytokine, IL‐18, significantly increased in rat BPH tissues. In humans, IL‐18 was localized in the epithelial and stromal components, while its receptor was strongly localized in smooth muscle cells. Furthermore, in human prostate smooth muscle cell line (PrSMC), IL‐18 effected dose‐dependent increases in the phosphorylated Akt and thrombospondin‐1 (TSP‐1) levels. TSP‐1 promoted proliferation of the human prostate stromal cells (PrSC).

CONCLUSIONS

IL‐18 may act directly in BPH pathogenesis by inducing TSP‐1 production in prostatic smooth muscle cells via Akt phosphorylation. Prostate 74:590–601, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Talin‐driven inside‐out activation mechanism of platelet αIIbβ3 integrin probed by multimicrosecond, all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Provasi Davide , Negri Ana , Coller Barry S. , Filizola Marta
Published: February 2014

Platelet aggregation is the consequence of the binding of extracellular bivalent ligands such as fibrinogen and von Willebrand factor to the high affinity, active state of integrin αIIbβ3. This state is achieved through a so‐called “inside‐out” mechanism characterized by the membrane‐assisted formation of a complex between the F2 and F3 subdomains of intracellular protein talin and the integrin β3 tail. Here, we present the results of multi‐microsecond, all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations carried on the complete transmembrane (TM) and C‐terminal (CT) domains of αIIbβ3 integrin in an explicit lipid‐water environment, and in the presence or absence of the talin‐1 F2 and F3 subdomains. These large‐scale simulations provide unprecedented molecular‐level insights into the talin‐driven inside‐out activation of αIIbβ3 integrin. Specifically, they suggest a preferred conformation of the complete αIIbβ3 TM/CT domains in a lipid‐water environment, and testable hypotheses of key intermolecular interactions between αIIbβ3 integrin and the F2/F3 domains of talin‐1. Notably, not only do these simulations give support to a stable left‐handed reverse turn conformation of the αIIb juxtamembrane motif rather than a helical turn, but they raise the question as to whether TM helix separation is required for talin‐driven integrin activation. Proteins 2014; 82:3231–3240. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variation in mortality among populations is higher for pymetrozine than for imidacloprid and spiromesifen in Trialeurodes vaporariorum in greenhouses in Finland
Authors: Ovčarenko Irina , Lindström Leena , Saikkonen Kari , Vänninen Irene
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

Insecticide resistance in Trialeurodes vaporariorum W. is unknown in the species' northern distribution range where it inhabits mainly commercial greenhouses. Resistance development in whiteflies feeding on year‐round crops in greenhouses is possible owing to the use of chemical treatments to back up biocontrol. The authors tested the response levels to spiromesifen, pymetrozine and imidacloprid in whiteflies collected from seven greenhouses within a 35 km radius in western Finland.

RESULTS

All except one (PR) population had LC50 values below the recommended concentrations for the tested compounds. However, some populations showed reduced susceptibility to pymetrozine in comparison with the reference susceptible population. Resistance ratios to pymetrozine were highly variable (resistance ratio 0.5–39.7), even among closely located greenhouses, and higher than those for imidacloprid (resistance ratio 1.05–10.5) and spiromesifen (resistance ratio 0.8–11.5). LC50 values and application frequencies of pymetrozine correlated positively among the sampled populations.

CONCLUSION

High variation in resistance levels to pymetrozine among populations within natural whitefly dispersal limits reflects variation in the usage of this compound among individual greenhouse crop producers. Thus, resistance management is recommended at the individual greenhouse crop producer level, even in a dense production cluster. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Temperature‐dependent electrical characterization of exfoliated β‐Ga2O3 micro flakes
Authors: Mitdank R. , Dusari S. , Bülow C. , Albrecht M. , Galazka Z. , Fischer S. F.
Published: February 2014

Among the transparent semiconducting oxides β‐Ga2O3 is of high interest because of its wide‐band gap of 4.8 eV and the corresponding transparency from deep ultraviolet to near infrared spectra. Here, we report on the preparation, structural and temperature‐dependent electrical characterization of thin β‐Ga2O3 micro flakes. β‐Ga2O3 single crystals are grown using Czochralski technique. Micro flakes are prepared via exfoliation technique in the thickness range from 2.4 to 300 nm. The samples are characterized using confocal microscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Transport investigations of β‐Ga2O3 micro flakes are performed in the temperature range from 30 to 300 K. The electrical parameters of flakes with thicknesses larger than 100 nm correspond to those of the source bulk single crystals of highest purity and mobility. The electrical resistivity at room temperature amounts to ρ(293 K) = (1.5 ± 0.5) Ω cm. The temperature‐dependent resistivity has a minimum at T = 130 K of about ρ(130 K) ∼ 1 Ω cm. This finds an explanation in the maximum of the bulk mobility. From the increase of ρ(T) between 130 and 300 K we determine an activation energy of Ea = (−10.5 ± 0.4) meV. For temperatures below 50 K ρ(T) increases indicating a freeze‐out of charge carriers. The non‐alloyed Ti/β‐Ga2O3 metal‐semiconductor contact resistance grows inverse with temperature as expected for thermionic emission. At room temperature the Ti/β‐Ga2O3 contact resistance is comparable to the resistance of the flake for low current densities of j < 100 A cm−2. However, at high current densities j > 100 A cm−2 this contact resistance is negligible.
Formation of three‐dimensional GaAs microstructures by combination of wet and metal‐assisted chemical etching
Authors: Lee A Ri , Kim Jungkil , Choi Suk‐Ho , Shin Jae Cheol
Published: February 2014

Previously, plasma‐enhanced dry etching has been used to generate three‐dimensional GaAs semiconductor structures, however, dry etching induces surface damages that degrade optical properties. Here, we demonstrate the fabrication method forming various types of GaAs microstructures through the combination etching process using the wet‐chemical solution. In this method, a gold (Au)‐pattern is employed as an etching mask to facilitate not only the typical wet etching but also the metal‐assisted chemical etching (MacEtch). High‐aspect‐ratio, tapered GaAs micropillars are produced by using [HF]:[H2O2]:[EtOH] as an etching solution, and their taper angle can be tuned by changing the molar ratio of the etching solution. In addition, GaAs microholes are formed when UV light is illuminated during the etching process. Since the wet etching process is free of the surface damage compared to the dry etching process, the GaAs microstructures demonstrated to be well formed here are promising for the applications of III–V optoelectronic devices such as solar cells, laser diodes, and photonic crystal devices. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Mechanical properties and structures of bulk nanomaterials based on carbon nanopolymorphs
Authors: Baimova Julia A. , Liu Bo , Dmitriev Sergey V. , Zhou Kun
Published: February 2014

Bulk nanomaterials based on sp2 carbon nanopolymorphs are promising candidates for supercapacitors due to their unique properties such as extremely high specific surface area, high conductivity and stability against graphitization. However, the mechanical response of such materials to external loading is not understood well. This Letter studies the effect of hydrostatic pressure on the mechanical properties and structures of these materials via molecular dynamics simulations. Three types of nanopolymorphs‐based nanomaterials that are composed of bended graphene flakes, short carbon nanotubes and fullerenes are considered. It is found that these three materials show a distinct relation between the pressure and volume strain. Moreover, their resistance to graphitization depends on the structure of their constituent components. The phenomena are explained by analysing the radial distribution function and coordination numbers of the atoms. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Host–virus interactions: from the perspectives of epigenetics
Authors: Li Shanshan , Kong Lingbao , Yu Xilan , Zheng Yi
Published: February 2014

Chromatin structure and histone modifications play key roles in gene regulation. Some virus genomes are organized into chromatin‐like structure, which undergoes different histone modifications facilitating complex functions in virus life cycles including replication. Here, we present a comprehensive summary of recent research in this field regarding the interaction between viruses and host epigenetic factors with emphasis on how chromatin modifications affect viral gene expression and virus infection. We also describe the strategies employed by viruses to manipulate the host epigenetic program to facilitate virus replication as well as the underlying mechanisms. Together, knowledge from this field not only generates novel insights into virus life cycles but may also have important therapeutic implications. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.