bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery of urinary biomarkers of whole grain rye intake in free‐living subjects using nontargeted LC‐MS metabolite profiling
Authors: Hanhineva Kati , Brunius Carl , Andersson Agneta , Marklund Matti , Juvonen Risto , Keski‐Rahkonen Pekka , Auriola Seppo , Landberg Rikard
Published: August 2015

Scope

Whole grain (WG) intake is associated with decreased risk of developing colorectal cancer, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease and its comorbidities. However, the role of specific grains is unclear. Moreover, intake of specific WG is challenging to measure accurately with traditional dietary assessment methods. Our aim was to use nontargeted metabolite profiling to discover specific urinary biomarkers for WG rye to objectively reflect intake under free‐living conditions.

Methods and results

WG rye intake was estimated by weighed food records, and 24 h urine collections were analyzed by LC‐MS. Multivariate modeling was undertaken by repeated double cross‐validated partial least squares regression against reported WG rye intake, which correlated well with multivariate prediction estimates (r = 0.67–0.80, p < 0.001), but not with intakes of WG wheat or oats. Hydroxyhydroxyphenyl acetamide sulfate, 3,5‐dihydroxyphenylpropionic acid sulfate, caffeic acid sulfate, and hydroxyphenyl acetamide sulfate were among the 20 features that had the greatest potential as intake biomarkers of WG. In addition, three compounds exhibited MS/MS fragmentation of carnitine structures.

Conclusion

With this nontargeted approach, we confirmed the specificity of alkylresorcinol metabolites as biomarkers for WG rye intake, but also discovered other compounds that should be evaluated as putative biomarkers in future studies.
Redesign enrollment services to fit your students' needs
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2015

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — “Learning doesn't begin at day one of classes — it begins at enrollment,” said Daniel Herbst, dean of student affairs at Chandler‐Gilbert Community College in Arizona.
Mitigate student stereotype threat with effective academic advising
Authors: Jones Darryl E.
Published: August 2015

Let's face it, advising working adult students in higher education requires special skills and knowledge. In general, academic advising extends well beyond the basics of meeting with a student to complete the transactions: identifying course requirements, acquiring permission to drop/add courses, or requesting course waivers. First and foremost, academic advising is about establishing a relationship: developing, understanding, and executing effectively against a strategic plan and periodically monitoring academic progress for any needed alterations to the plan. We must also admit that working adult students face different work‐life balance issues and challenges than traditional‐aged students encounter and they also face the challenges of learning or relearning how to be a college student, which often translates into a lack of confidence or a feeling of being stigmatized.
Study on phenolphthalein poly(ether sulfone)‐modified cyanate ester resin and epoxy resin blends
Authors: Wang Guan , Wang Rongguo , Fu Gang , Gao Tangling , Fu Chunming , Kuang Hong , Yang Fan , Jiao Weicheng , Hao Lifeng , Liu Wenbo
Published: August 2015

In this work, the phenolphthalein poly(ether sulfone) (PES‐C)‐modified cyanate ester (CE) and epoxy (EP) blends were prepared. This work mainly discusses the curing behaviors, fracture toughness, dynamic mechanical properties, and thermal and mechanical properties of the blends. The Fourier transform infrared and differential scanning calorimetric analyses are used to confirm the curing behaviors, demonstrating that the main reaction pathways are not varied with the addition of PES‐C, but the reaction rate could be evidently accelerated. The fracture morphologies of the blends are observed by Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the fracture causes of the failed surface are also analyzed. With the addition of PES‐C, the modified blends display higher fracture toughness (KIc) and impact strength when compared with neat CE. Domain sizes of the blends first increase then decrease with the addition of PES‐C. The results of dynamic mechanical analysis and thermogravimetric analysis show that the Tg, storage modulus, and thermal stability of the crosslink network slightly decreases with the addition of PES‐C. The mechanical strength of blends with the addition of PES‐C is far better than that of the blends without PES‐C both at ambient temperature and elevated temperature. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2591–2602, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Efficient water‐soluble drag reducing star polymers with improved mechanical stability
Authors: Cole David P. , Khosravi Ezat , Musa Osama M.
Published: August 2015

We describe here the first example of the synthesis of 4‐arm star poly(acrylic acid) for use as a water‐soluble drag reducing agent, by applying Cu(0)‐mediated polymerization technique. High molecular weight 4‐arm star poly(tert‐butyl acrylate) (Mn = 3.0–9.0 × 105 g mol−1) was first synthesized using 4,4′‐oxybis(3,3‐bis(2‐bromopropionate)butane as an initiator and a simple Cu(0)/TREN catalyst system. Then, 4‐arm star poly(tert‐butyl acrylate) were subjected to hydrolysis using trifluoroacetic acid resulting in water‐soluble 4‐arm star poly(acrylic acid). Drag reduction test rig analysis showed 4‐arm star poly(acrylic acid) to be effective as a drag reducing agent with drag reduction of 24.3%. Moreover, 4‐arm star poly(acrylic acid) exhibited superior mechanical stability when compared with a linear poly(acrylic acid) and commercially available drag reducing polymers; Praestol and poly(ethylene oxide). The linear poly(acrylic acid), Praestol, and poly(ethylene oxide) all showed a large decrease in drag reduction of 8–12% when cycled 30 times through the drag reduction test rig while, in contrast, 4‐arm star poly(acrylic acid) demonstrated much higher mechanical stability. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 335–344
New alternating D–A1–D–A2 copolymer containing two electron‐deficient moieties based on benzothiadiazole and 9‐(2‐Octyldodecyl)‐8H‐pyrrolo[3,4‐b]bisthieno[2,3‐f:3',2'‐h]quinoxaline‐8,10(9H)‐dione for efficient polymer solar cells
Authors: Keshtov M. L. , Kuklin S. A. , Godovsky D. Y. , Khokhlov A. R. , Kurchania R. , Chen F. C. , Koukaras Emmanuel N. , Sharma G. D.
Published: August 2015

A novel D–A1–D–A2 copolymer denoted as P1 containing two electron withdrawing units based on benzothiadiazole (BT) and 9‐(2‐octyldodecyl)−8H‐pyrrolo[3,4‐b] bisthieno[2,3‐f:3′,2′‐h]quinoxaline‐8,10(9H)–dione (PTQD) units was synthesized and characterized. The resulting copolymer exhibits a broad‐absorption spectrum, relatively deep lying HOMO energy level (−5.44 eV) and narrow optical bandgap (1.50 eV). Bulk heterojunction (BHJ) polymer solar cells (PSCs) based on P1 as donor and PC71BM as acceptor with optimized donor to acceptor weight ratio of 1:2 and processed with DIO/CB solvent showed good photovoltaic performance with power conversion efficiency of 6.21% which is higher than that of the device processed without solvent additive (4.40%). The absorption and morphology investigations of the active layers indicated that structural and morphological changes were induced by the solvent additive. This higher power conversion efficiency could be mainly attributed to the absorption enhancement and improved charge transported in the active layer induced by the better nanoscale morphology of the active layer. This study demonstrated that a copolymer with two different acceptor moieties in the backbone may be promising candidate as donor copolymer for solution processed BHJ PSCs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 155–168
Synthesis of well‐defined star‐shaped poly(ε‐caprolactone)/poly(ethylbene glycol) amphiphilic conetworks by combination of ring opening polymerization and “click” chemistry
Authors: Wang Cui‐Wei , Liu Chao , Zhu Xiao‐Wei , Yang Zi‐Ying , Sun Hong‐Fan , Kong De‐Ling , Yang Jing
Published: August 2015

Well‐defined star‐shaped hydrophobic poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) and hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) amphiphilic conetworks (APCNs) have been synthesized via the combination of ring opening polymerization (ROP) and click chemistry. Alkyne‐terminated six arm star‐shaped PCL (6‐s‐PCLx‐CCH) and azido‐terminated PEG (N3‐PEG‐N3) are characterized by 1H NMR and FT‐IR. The swelling degree of the APCNs is determined both in water and organic solvent. This unique property of the conetworks is dependent on the nanophase separation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic phases. The morphology and thermal behaviors of the APCNs are investigated by SEM and DSC respectively. The biocompatibility is determined by water soluble tetrazolium salt reagents (WST‐1) assay, which shows the new polymer networks had good biocompatibility. Through in vitro release of paclitaxel (PTX) and doxorubicin (DOX), the APCNs is confirmed to be promising drug depot materials for sustained hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 407–417
Thermal response of a PVCL–HA conjugate
Authors: Niskanen Jukka , Karesoja Mikko , Aseyev Vladimir , Qiu Xing‐Ping , Winnik Françoise M. , Tenhu Heikki
Published: August 2015

The synthesis and self‐assembling of a thermoresponsive conjugate of hyaluronic acid (HA) and poly(N‐vinylcaprolactam) (PVCL) is reported. Both polymers were end functionalized: HA via reductive amination, thereby introducing an azide endgroup to the chain end, and PVCL via thioetherification to introduce a propargyl group. The two were coupled with a copper assisted “click” reaction into a bioconjugate composed of HA blocks with the molar mass 3,600 g mol−1(1618 saccharide units) and PVCL blocks of 3,500 g mol−1(∼25 repeating units). The cloud point temperature measured by transmittance was 50–51 °C in water. The calorimetrically observed phase transition temperature of PVCL in the conjugate increased by 2 °C to 47.7 °C, whereas the enthalpy of the phase transition was unaffected by the conjugation. HA‐PVCL conjugate self‐assembles in water upon heating into monodisperse, colloidally stable, hollow spherical particles whose size may be tuned with the heating rate of the solution. Slow and fast heating resulted in vesicles with the hydrodynamic radii of 443 or 275 nm, respectively. The heating rate did not, however, affect the cloud point. Salt did not noticeably affect the size of the polymer particles, presumably because of interactions between the HA and PVCL blocks. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem.2016,54, 425–436
Adaptive Control Charts: Recent Developments and Extensions
Authors: Psarakis Stelios
Published: August 2015

Statistical quality control is a very useful tool in the hands of business in order to improve their products quality. The control charts are the most widely used and the most effective tool of the statistical quality control. In this paper, the substantial recent developments in the design of the adaptive control charts, focusing on the univariate control charts, which allow some of their parameters to change during production, are presented. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toward teleoperated needle steering under continuous MRI guidance for prostate percutaneous interventions
Authors: Seifabadi Reza , Aalamifar Fereshteh , Iordachita Iulian , Fichtinger Gabor
Published: August 2015

Background

To propose a human‐operated in‐room master–slave bevel‐tip needle steering system under continuous MRI guidance for prostate biopsy, in which the patient is kept in the scanner at all times and the process of needle placement is under continuous control of the physician.

Methods

A 2‐DOF MRI‐compatible needle steering module is developed and integrated with an existing 4‐DOF transperineal robot, creating a 6‐DOF robotic platform for prostate interventions. An MRI‐compatible 2‐DOF master robot is also developed to enable remote needle steering. An MRI‐compatible 2‐DOF force/torque sensor was used on the master side. Bevel‐tip needle steering is implemented in order to compensate for the targeting error due to needle–tissue interaction.

Results

MRI‐compatibility results demonstrated maximum 20% loss in signal to noise ratio (SNR). Robot functionality was not influenced by the magnetic field. Targeting error was reduced from 4.2 mm to 0.9 mm as a result of bevel‐tip needle steering.

Conclusions

The feasibility of teleoperated bevel‐tip needle steering using the proposed system was shown in a phantom experiment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The partly Aalen's model for recurrent event data with a dependent terminal event
Authors: Chen Chyong‐Mei , Shen Pao‐Sheng , Chuang Ya‐Wen
Published: August 2015

Recurrent event data are commonly observed in biomedical longitudinal studies. In many instances, there exists a terminal event, which precludes the occurrence of additional repeated events, and usually there is also a nonignorable correlation between the terminal event and recurrent events. In this article, we propose a partly Aalen's additive model with a multiplicative frailty for the rate function of recurrent event process and assume a Cox frailty model for terminal event time. A shared gamma frailty is used to describe the correlation between the two types of events. Consequently, this joint model can provide the information of temporal influence of absolute covariate effects on the rate of recurrent event process, which is usually helpful in the decision‐making process for physicians. An estimating equation approach is developed to estimate marginal and association parameters in the joint model. The consistency of the proposed estimator is established. Simulation studies demonstrate that the proposed approach is appropriate for practical use. We apply the proposed method to a peritonitis cohort data set for illustration. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic Vicinal Diacylation of Epoxidized Triglycerides in Canola Oil
Authors: Somidi Asish K. R. , Sharma Rajesh V. , Dalai Ajay K.
Published: August 2015

The epoxy ring opening and vicinal diacylation of fatty acids in vegetable oils was found to be promising reaction to synthesize stable biolubricants and bioplasticizers. The current research investigation is emphasized on the synthesis of a value added product vicinally diacylated canola oil by sulfated‐ZrO2. The two‐step research approach employed includes: (i) epoxidation, and (ii) epoxy ring opening and vicinal diacylation of epoxidized triglycerides in the canola oil. Sulfated‐ZrO2 was prepared and characterized to measure the physico‐chemical properties required for the effective catalysis. The Taguchi (L16 orthogonal array) statistical design method was employed to optimize the process conditions for the maximum formation of diacylated canola oil. Sulfated‐ZrO2 demonstrated promising activity for the epoxy ring opening and vicinal diacylation of canola oil, and 99 % conversion was achieved at the optimum process conditions of temperature 130 °C, epoxy to acetic anhydride molar ratio (1:1.25), 16 wt% of catalyst loading and reaction time of 1 h which were inferred from the Taguchi analyses. The products were characterized and confirmed with FT‐IR, 1H NMR and sodium spray mass spectroscopy. Spectroscopic analysis also confirmed the absence of intermediate products. The statistical analyses was undertaken to determine the order, rank and interactions among the process variables. The reaction followed Langmuir–Hinshelwood–Hougen–Watson type mechanism and the kinetic data was fitted in overall second order equation. Calculated apparent activation energy was 23.1 kcal/mol.
Ilizarov bone transport as a treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia: A long-term follow-up study
Authors: Vanderstappen Jan , Lammens Johan , Berger Pieter , Laumen Armand
Published: August 2015

Purpose

Most studies on congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) report on the short-term union rate and refracture rate but do not take into account the long-term outcome. This review includes patients treated with an Ilizarov bone transport, who all reached skeletal maturity. It describes long-term results and highlights any prognostic factors that could predict the final outcome.

Methods

The records of patients with CPT treated with an Ilizarov bone transport in our institution were retrospectively evaluated.

Results

A total of 12 consecutive patients were studied. The mean follow-up was 24.5 years (range 6–39 years). Primary consolidation was seen in ten patients (83 %). Half of these patients had a refracture. At final follow-up, eight patients experienced union and four remained un-united, of whom one had an amputation.

Conclusions

The present data confirm a good primary healing rate. However, tibial union at final follow-up was only seen in 67 %, indicating that refracture is the main issue. United bone is often of inferior biological and mechanical quality, so lifetime protection with intramedullary devices, braces or a combination of both is recommended.
The impact of elevated thyroid stimulating hormone on female subfertility
Authors: Hiraoka Takehiro , Wada‐Hiraike Osamu , Hirota Yasushi , Hirata Tetsuya , Koga Kaori , Osuga Yutaka , Fujii Tomoyuki
Published: August 2015

Purpose

Hypothyroidism is known to have a negative impact on female reproduction even in subclinical form, subclinical hypothyroidism (SH). This study aimed to investigate the association between elevated TSH level and reproductive outcome.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated a total of 203 infertile women who first visited our infertility treatment division from January 1, 2009 to August 31, 2012, including 13 patients with TSH above 4.5 mIU/l (elevated‐TSH patients), 11 of whom were diagnosed as SH, and 190 patients with normal TSH (normo‐TSH patients). We evaluated them according to reproductive outcome, including clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and live birth until April 31, 2014. We also aimed to redefine the upper limit of normal serum TSH level.

Results

Multivariate analysis showed significant influence of elevated TSH on clinical pregnancy, although miscarriage and live birth were not affected. In addition, we revealed that the rate of decreased ovarian reserve and unexplained infertility was increased in patients with elevated TSH levels.

Conclusions

We found an association between elevated TSH and the decreased rate of clinical pregnancy. This might be related to an ovulatory disorder and pathophysiology of unexplained infertility. These results may reinforce the usefulness of TSH screening in infertility population.
Glucose stimulates chondrocyte differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells and calcification: A possible role for IL‐1β
Authors: Bessueille Laurence , Fakhry Maya , Hamade Eva , Badran Bassam , Magne David
Published: August 2015

Vascular calcification is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes. Glucose stimulates calcification in culture of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) but the underlying mechanisms remain obscure. We observed that high glucose levels stimulated mouse and human VSMC trans‐differentiation into chondrocytes, with increased levels of Sox9, type II collagen, glycosaminoglycan and Runx2 expression, and increased alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization. These effects were associated with increased expression of IL‐1β, which stimulated alkaline phosphatase and calcification, suggesting that glucose induces chondrocyte differentiation of VSMCs, possibly through IL‐1β activation.
Biphasic P wave in inferior leads and the development of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Hayashi Hideki , Horie Minoru
Published: August 2015

Background

Anisotropic and slow conduction in the atrium underlie the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to investigate the P wave characteristics associated with the development of AF in patients with a biphasic P wave in the inferior leads.

Methods

Digital analysis of retrospectively recorded 12‐lead electrocardiograms was performed to select patients with a biphasic P wave (positive/negative) in lead II from a database of 114,334 patients. Characteristics of the P wave in the inferior leads associated with incidence of AF were determined. Receiver operating characteristic curves dichotomized P wave variables were measured in each lead.

Results

A total of 141 patients (77 men; mean age, 64±19 years) were enrolled in this study. Twenty‐nine (20.6%) patients developed AF (AF group) vs. 112 (79.6%) who did not (non‐AF group) during a follow‐up period of 50±62 months. The amplitude of the initial P wave portion in lead II was significantly larger in the AF group when compared with the non‐AF group (77.3±77.0 µV vs. 51.0±30.1 µV, p=0.003), while the amplitude of the terminal P wave portion in lead III was significantly decreased in the AF group when compared with the non‐AF group (−70.6±41.3 µV vs. −89.1±38.1 µV, p=0.024). The duration of the initial P wave portion in lead III was significantly longer in the AF group when compared with the non‐AF group (52.7±34.6 ms vs. 35.8±30.4 ms, p=0.011). Multivariate Cox proportional‐hazards analysis confirmed that the increased duration of the initial P wave portion in lead III (≥71 ms) was independently associated with AF development (hazard ratio 2.90, 95% confidence interval 1.16–7.11, p=0.02).

Conclusion

The analyses of the biphasic P wave in the inferior leads suggest that the development of AF could be attributed to increased atrial slow conduction.
The Role of Cognitions and Beliefs in Trichotillomania: A Qualitative Study Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Rehm Imogen C. , Nedeljkovic Maja , Thomas Anna , Moulding Richard
Published: August 2015

Trichotillomania (TTM) is characterised by the removal of one's hair, causing hair loss. Phenomenological research on TTM has investigated its associated behavioural and affective factors. Few studies have investigated the possible role of cognitions and beliefs, despite emerging support for cognitive therapies in treating this disorder. This study aimed to explore and describe the cognitions and beliefs that contribute to the onset and maintenance of hairpulling in TTM. Eight women with TTM participated in semi-structured, in-depth interviews to explore their experience of cognitions and beliefs before, during and after typical hairpulling episodes. Interviews were analysed using the qualitative method of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Six superordinate themes of beliefs were identified as important: negative self-beliefs, control beliefs, beliefs about coping, beliefs about negative emotions, permission-giving beliefs, and perfectionism. These preliminary findings suggest that cognitions may play an important role in TTM phenomenology. Future quantitative research on the role of cognitions and beliefs in TTM in larger samples has the potential to advance cognitive-behavioural models and treatments of this poorly understood disorder.
Media coverage, family ownership, and corporate philanthropic giving: evidence from China
Authors: Du Xingqiang , Pei Hongmei , Du Yingjie , Zeng Quan
Published: August 2015

Using a sample of Chinese family firms during the period of 2004–2010, we examine the influence of media coverage on corporate philanthropic giving and the moderating role of family ownership. Specifically, we document that media coverage is significantly positively associated with corporate philanthropic giving, suggesting that media coverage as an informal system plays an important role in motivating Chinese family firms to establish business ethics, shape socially responsible images, and enhance corporate philanthropy. Moreover, family ownership attenuates the positive association between media coverage and corporate philanthropic giving. Our findings are robust to a variety of sensitivity tests and are still valid after controlling for the potential endogeneity between media coverage and corporate philanthropy. Our study is one of few studies to investigate the impact of media coverage on corporate philanthropic giving in an emerging market.
Adequacy of nutritional intake among older men living in Sydney, Australia: findings from the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project (CHAMP)
Authors: Waern Rosilene V. R. , Cumming Robert G. , Blyth Fiona , Naganathan Vasi , Allman-Farinelli Margaret , Le Couteur David , Simpson Stephen J. , Kendig Hal , Hirani Vasant
Published: August 2015

Previous research shows that older men tend to have lower nutritional intakes and higher risk of under-nutrition compared with younger men. The objectives of this study were to describe energy and nutrient intakes, assess nutritional risk and investigate factors associated with poor intake of energy and key nutrients in community-dwelling men aged ≥75 years participating in the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project – a longitudinal cohort study on older men in Sydney, Australia. A total of 794 men (mean age 81·4 years) had a detailed diet history interview, which was carried out by a dietitian. Dietary adequacy was assessed by comparing median intakes with nutrient reference values (NRV): estimated average requirement, adequate intake or upper level of intake. Attainment of NRV of total energy and key nutrients in older age (protein, Fe, Zn, riboflavin, Ca and vitamin D) was incorporated into a ‘key nutrients’ variable dichotomised as ‘good’ (≥5) or ‘poor’ (≤4). Using logistic regression modelling, we examined associations between key nutrients with factors known to affect food intake. Median energy intake was 8728 kJ (P5=5762 kJ, P95=12 303 kJ), and mean BMI was 27·7 (sd4·0) kg/m2. Men met their NRV for most nutrients. However, only 1 % of men met their NRV for vitamin D, only 19 % for Ca, only 30 % for K and only 33 % for dietary fibre. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that only country of birth was significantly associated with poor nutritional intake. Dietary intakes were adequate for most nutrients; however, only half of the participants met the NRV of ≥5 key nutrients.
CLAUDIAN'S ARMA: A METALITERARY PUN
Authors: Ware Catherine
Published: August 2015

In his article ‘On the shoulders of giants', Don Fowler argues for the identification of the Aeneid with its opening arma, saying that in post-Augustan Latin verse arma is always seen as significantly intertextual. The word may apply to the Aeneid itself, or, more generally, to imperial epic or epic in the style of Virgil.
The wasting continuum in heart failure: from sarcopenia to cachexia
Authors: von Haehling Stephan
Published: August 2015

Sarcopenia (muscle wasting) and cachexia share some pathophysiological aspects. Sarcopenia affects approximately 20 %, cachexia <10 % of ambulatory patients with heart failure (HF). Whilst sarcopenia means loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength that predominantly affects postural rather than non-postural muscles, cachexia means loss of muscle and fat tissue that leads to weight loss. The wasting continuum in HF implies that skeletal muscle is lost earlier than fat tissue and may lead from sarcopenia to cachexia. Both tissues require conservation, and therapies that stop the wasting process have tremendous therapeutic appeal. The present paper reviews the pathophysiology of muscle and fat wasting in HF and discusses potential treatments, including exercise training, appetite stimulants, essential amino acids, growth hormone, testosterone, electrical muscle stimulation, ghrelin and its analogues, ghrelin receptor agonists and myostatin antibodies.
Dietary carbohydrate and control of hepatic gene expression: mechanistic links from ATP and phosphate ester homeostasis to the carbohydrate-response element-binding protein
Authors: Agius Loranne
Published: August 2015

Type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are associated with elevated hepatic glucose production and fatty acid synthesis (de novolipogenesis (DNL)). High carbohydrate diets also increase hepatic glucose production and lipogenesis. The carbohydrate-response element-binding protein (ChREBP, encoded byMLXIPL) is a transcription factor with a major role in the hepatic response to excess dietary carbohydrate. Because its target genes include pyruvate kinase (PKLR) and enzymes of lipogenesis, it is regarded as a key regulator for conversion of dietary carbohydrate to lipid for energy storage. An alternative hypothesis for ChREBP function is to maintain hepatic ATP homeostasis by restraining the elevation of phosphate ester intermediates in response to elevated glucose. This is supported by the following evidence: (i) A key stimulus for ChREBP activation and induction of its target genes is elevation of phosphate esters; (ii) target genes of ChREBP include key negative regulators of the hexose phosphate ester pool (GCKR,G6PC,SLC37A4) and triose phosphate pool (PKLR); (iii) ChREBP knock-down models have elevated hepatic hexose phosphates and triose phosphates and compromised ATP phosphorylation potential; (iv) gene defects inG6PCandSLC37A4and common variants ofMLXIPL,GCKRandPKLRin man are associated with elevated hepatic uric acid production (a marker of ATP depletion) or raised plasma uric acid levels. It is proposed that compromised hepatic phosphate homeostasis is a contributing factor to the elevated hepatic glucose production and lipogenesis that associate with type 2 diabetes, NAFLD and excess carbohydrate in the diet.
Ketamine for rapid reduction of suicidal ideation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Murrough J. W. , Soleimani L. , DeWilde K. E. , Collins K. A. , Lapidus K. A. , Iacoviello B. M. , Lener M. , Kautz M. , Kim J. , Stern J. B. , Price R. B. , Perez A. M. , Brallier J. W. , Rodriguez G. J. , Goodman W. K. , Iosifescu D. V. , Charney D. S.
Published: August 2015

Background.

Suicide is a devastating public health problem and very few biological treatments have been found to be effective for quickly reducing the intensity of suicidal ideation (SI). We have previously shown that a single dose of ketamine, a glutamate N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, is associated with a rapid reduction in depressive symptom severity and SI in patients with treatment-resistant depression.

Method.

We conducted a randomized, controlled trial of ketamine in patients with mood and anxiety spectrum disorders who presented with clinically significant SI (n = 24). Patients received a single infusion of ketamine or midazolam (as an active placebo) in addition to standard of care. SI measured using the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSI) 24 h post-treatment represented the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included the Montgomery–Asberg Depression Rating Scale – Suicidal Ideation (MADRS-SI) score at 24 h and additional measures beyond the 24-h time-point.

Results.

The intervention was well tolerated and no dropouts occurred during the primary 7-day assessment period. BSI score was not different between the treatment groups at 24 h (p = 0.32); however, a significant difference emerged at 48 h (p = 0.047). MADRS-SI score was lower in the ketamine group compared to midazolam group at 24 h (p = 0.05). The treatment effect was no longer significant at the end of the 7-day assessment period.

Conclusions.

The current findings provide initial support for the safety and tolerability of ketamine as an intervention for SI in patients who are at elevated risk for suicidal behavior. Larger, well-powered studies are warranted.
Creative and Innovative Uses of English in Contemporary Japan
Authors: Inagawa Mayuko
Published: August 2015

Over the last century or so, English has become a global lingua franca. Today, English is the first language of 400 million people and the second language of as many as 1.4 billion (Millward & Hayes, 2012: 342). In addition, it is the language that is predominantly used on the Internet; 80% of homepages on the Web are in English, followed by German (4.5%) and Japanese (3.1%) (Millward & Hayes, 2012: 343). Needless to say, English serves as a medium of communication regardless of the speaker's first language. As English spreads globally, fragments of its lexicon also permeate native languages, enriching their lexicons. This paper is concerned with the use of English and its elements, including English-derived words, in contemporary Japan, especially within the discourse of ‘Manners Posters’, posters which promote good manners in public spaces, and advertising texts. These types of media display creative and innovative uses of English that interact with Japanese at various linguistic levels in the form of wordplay, communicating messages, sometimes even in the form of puns, to achieve particular ends in a given context. We will look at this phenomenon from the ‘glocal’ point of view – i.e., the mechanisms and effects of a fusion between ‘global English’ and local culture that create a localised or nativised taste of the global.
French influence on English in Togo
Authors: Awuku Ameyo S.
Published: August 2015

This paper looks at English language use in law discourse and particularly in university classrooms in Togo. Togo makes extensive use of the English language despite the fact that it is a francophone country. English is taught in almost all public institutions, except for primary schools. Financial institutions, such as banks, make extensive use of English. This is evidenced at first glance at the large computer screens positioned at the entrances to these institutions. At the Université de Lomé alone, there are several ESP (English for Specific Purposes) programs. Each of the five faculties (with several departments) and ten schools and institutes have an ESP program. The ESP course is applicable to first-year students on BA programs and to those on MA programs. However, despite this extensive presence of English, traditional language norms and the influence of French on English in Togo in general are still very strong.
The role and status of the English language in Kuwait
Authors: Dashti Abdulmohsen
Published: August 2015

In the Arab world, English is having substantial effects on the region's educational systems, language policies and patterns of language use (Nunan, 2003; Bolton, 2008; Kirkpatrick, 2008). Having realized the importance of English in all domains of life, Arab countries have encouraged the acquisition of English by their people. Most Arab countries have introduced English as a main subject in the school curriculum. In most government and private sectors, most business organizations ask for proof of English proficiency before hiring people for employment.
Bilingual creativity: University–level poetry writing workshops in English in China
Authors: Sui Gang
Published: August 2015

The university-level poetry writing workshops in English taught in a Chinese context are characterized chiefly by bilingual creativity. Based on the practical task of creating ‘contact literature’ (Kachru, 1992: 317), to be more exact, ‘contact poetry’, they transcend the limits of any one single language and culture so as to make points of contact between Chinese and English languages and cultures in terms of verbal images, sound devices, and thematic concerns.
A Grand Tour of English Grammatical Constructions
Authors: Laws Jacqueline
Published: August 2015

This introductory text successfully achieves its ambitious goal of demonstrating how the Construction Grammar framework can be applied in a systematic fashion to a range of sub-disciplines within Linguistics. Construction Grammar (CG) is a unified theory of knowledge of language modelled on knowledge of constructions. Each chapter illustrates the application of CG to a different sub-discipline, from those that are more well-established in the literature, such as argument structure and information packaging, to areas that have been addressed in depth more recently from this perspective, such as morphology, language variation and language change.
ON THE INTERPRETATION OF DECISION THEORY
Authors: Okasha Samir
Published: August 2015

This paper explores the contrast between mentalistic and behaviouristic interpretations of decision theory. The former regards credences and utilities as psychologically real, while the latter regards them as mere representations of an agent's preferences. Philosophers typically adopt the former interpretation, economists the latter. It is argued that the mentalistic interpretation is preferable if our aim is to use decision theory for descriptive purposes, but if our aim is normative then the behaviouristic interpretation cannot be dispensed with.
Post-stripping recolonization of vascular epiphytes in cloud-forest fragments in Mexico
Authors: Acuña-Tarazona Margoth , Toledo-Aceves Tarin , Flores-Palacios Alejandro , Sosa Vinicio J. , Martínez M. Luisa
Published: August 2015

The response of vascular epiphyte communities following natural or human disturbance has been little studied. Over 5 y, we evaluated the post-stripping recolonization of vascular epiphytes in cloud forest. Vascular epiphytes were experimentally removed from branch and trunk plots (1 m in length) on five trees in two secondary cloud forest fragments in southern Mexico. Similarity between colonizer and established communities was compared in each fragment using a further five trees with no stripping. All seedlings were recorded yearly. Non-vascular epiphyte cover was estimated in each plot. The recolonization rate was very high; after 5 y, epiphyte density of the colonizer community (27.4 ± 6.8 individuals per segment) reached similar values to those of the established community (26.7 ± 3.3) in nearby trees. While similarity (composition and abundance) between the colonizer community and established community was high (81%), diversity accumulation curves indicated that the colonizer community presents a lower diversity of epiphytes (5.5 equivalent species) than the established community (11.4). Colonization of xerophytic bromeliads was high, while pteridophytes and orchids presented reduced recovery. The immediately surrounding source of propagules had a strong influence on recolonization. In both the colonizer and established communities, dominance rank was bromeliads > peperomias > pteridophytes. The results show that the recovery capacity of epiphytic vegetation in secondary forest is high, if propagule sources are close by. However, at 5 y after disturbance, it is unclear whether the colonizer community would present the same species composition as the established community or if it would give rise to a different community.
Improvement of X-ray stress measurement from a Debye–Scherrer ring by oscillation of the X-ray incident angle
Authors: Miyazaki Toshiyuki , Maruyama Yoichi , Fujimoto Yohei , Sasaki Toshihiko
Published: August 2015

A technique to improve the stress measurement from a Debye–Scherrer ring (D–S ring) is reported. In a previous work, the authors reported a technique to calculate stress from the Fourier series of the normal strain of a D–S ring. That technique, similar to the cosα method that came before it, is inaccurate when the grain size of the specimen is relatively large. To cope with this problem, the authors propose using the oscillation of the X-ray incident angle. The present study demonstrates this technique to improve the stress measurement.
Certification of Standard Reference Material 1976B
Authors: Black David R. , Windover Donald , Mendenhall Marcus H. , Henins Albert , Filliben James , Cline James P.
Published: August 2015

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) certifies a suite of Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) to address specific aspects of the performance of X-ray powder diffraction instruments. This report describes SRM 1976b, the third generation of this powder diffraction SRM. SRM 1976b consists of a sintered alumina disc, approximately 25.6 mm in diameter by 2.2 mm in thickness, intended for use in the calibration of X-ray powder diffraction equipment with respect to line position and intensity as a function of 2θ-angle. The sintered form of the SRM eliminates the effect of sample loading procedures on intensity measurements. Certified data include the lattice parameters and relative peak intensity values from 13 lines in the 2θ region between 20° and 145° using CuKα radiation. A NIST-built diffractometer, incorporating many advanced and unique design features was used to make the certification measurements.
Powder X-ray diffraction of 3,3-dichloro-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-piperidinone, C11H10Cl2N2O3
Authors: Wang Qing , Xiao Ying , He Jia Wei , Li Hui
Published: August 2015

X-ray powder diffraction data for 3,3-dichloro-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-piperidinone, C11H10Cl2N2O3, are reported [a = 11.088(4) Å, b = 11.594(5) Å, c = 12.689(3) Å, α = 118.456(1)°, β = 100.320(3)°, γ = 107.763(3)°, V = 1259.27 Å3, Z = 4 and space group P-1 ]. All measured lines were indexed and are consistent with the P-1 space group. No detectable impurities were observed.
Better pensions, better jobs: status and alternatives toward universal pension coverage in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: MELGUIZO ANGEL , BOSCH MARIANO , PAGES CARMEN
Published: August 2015

This article offers an overview of the current state of labor markets and pension coverage in a wide sample of Latin America and the Caribbean countries, and proposes a series of possible avenues toward universal coverage, not only as an instrument to fight poverty during old age, but also as part of an agenda for increasing formal employment and productivity growth. We conclude that despite perspectives of low economic growth and reduced fiscal space, the region is going through intense demographic and socio-economic changes, which increase the demand for better jobs and provide a real opportunity for initiating the bold reforms in pensions, labor, and taxes needed to achieve universal coverage.
Hometreatment
Authors: Boege Isabel , Schepker Renate , Herpertz-Dahlmann Beate , Vloet Timo D.
Published: August 2015

Zusammenfassung. «Hometreatment» (HT) stellt in vielen Ländern eine kosteneffektive stationsersetzende Alternative zur Behandlung psychisch erkrankter Kinder und Jugendlicher mit stationärer Aufnahmeindikation dar. Dabei werden unter dem Begriff HT unterschiedlichste Modelle von aufsuchender Behandlung subsummiert. In Deutschland wird HT bisher nicht regelhaft angeboten. Auch ist die Datenlage in Deutschland zu HT, speziell für kinder- und jugendpsychiatrische Störungsbilder, noch unzureichend, obwohl Möglichkeiten zur Finanzierung notwendiger Studien rechtlich bereits geschaffen wurden. Eine hier durchgeführte systematische Literaturrecherche in elektronischen Datenbanken (1980–2014), soll einen Überblick über verschiedene Formen von HT geben. Zudem wird die Studienlage spezifisch für einige kinder- und jugendpsychiatrische Störungsbilder dargestellt. Auf zukünftige Möglichkeiten von HT in Deutschland vor dem Hintergrund des pauschalierenden Entgeltsystems in Psychiatrie und Psychosomatik (PEPP) wird eingegangen, da HT bei differenzierter Indikationsstellung und speziellen Störungsbildern möglicher Weise eine sinnvolle Alternative zur stationären Behandlung darstellen kann.
Small Rivers Could Have Big Impact on Arctic Ocean
Authors: Alkire Matthew , Jacobson Andrew , Lehn Gregory , Macdonald Robie
Published: August 2015

The Mackenzie River carries the bulk of freshwater flow from North America's tundra to the North Atlantic. But what about the effects of smaller rivers from Canada's Arctic islands?
The photochemical mechanism of a B12-dependent photoreceptor protein
Authors: Kutta Roger J. , Hardman Samantha J. O. , Johannissen Linus O. , Bellina Bruno , Messiha Hanan L. , Ortiz-Guerrero Juan Manuel , Elías-Arnanz Montserrat , Padmanabhan S. , Barran Perdita , Scrutton Nigel S. , Jones Alex R.
Published: August 2015

The coenzyme B12-dependent photoreceptor protein, CarH, is a bacterial transcriptional regulator that controls the biosynthesis of carotenoids in response to light. On binding of coenzyme B12 the monomeric apoprotein forms tetramers in the dark, which bind operator DNA thus blocking transcription. Under illumination the CarH tetramer dissociates, weakening its affinity for DNA and allowing transcription. The mechanism by which this occurs is unknown. Here we describe the photochemistry in CarH that ultimately triggers tetramer dissociation; it proceeds via a cob(III)alamin intermediate, which then forms a stable adduct with the protein. This pathway is without precedent and our data suggest it is independent of the radical chemistry common to both coenzyme B12 enzymology and its known photochemistry. It provides a mechanistic foundation for the emerging field of B12 photobiology and will serve to inform the development of a new class of optogenetic tool for the control of gene expression.
Asymmetrical diacylglycerol dynamics on the cytosolic and lumenal sides of a single endomembrane in living cells
Authors: Ueda Yoshibumi , Ogiso Hideo , Sato Moritoshi , Umezawa Yoshio , Okazaki Toshiro , Kobayashi Toshihide
Published: August 2015

The elucidation of lipid dynamics on the cytosolic and lumenal sides of a single endomembrane has been challenging in living cells because of the lack of appropriate methods. Diacylglycerol (DAG) is a lipid second messenger that is produced by enzymes that reside on both the cytosolic and lumenal sides of the endomembrane. In the present study, we attempted to observe both the cytosolic and lumenal DAG dynamics at endomembranes including the Golgi apparatus and the endoplasmic reticulum in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. We developed a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)–based probe to detect DAG at the luminal side (lumenal DAG) of endomembranes. In combination with the FRET-based cytosolic DAG probe that has already been established, it was found that lumenal DAG is generated in a calcium-dependent manner by thapsigargin, which increases cytosolic calcium concentrations. In contrast, DAG production at the cytosolic side of endomembranes did not occur under the same experimental conditions. The thapsigargin-induced DAG generation was abolished by treatment with an inhibitor of sphingomyelin synthase (SMS) and phosphatidylcholine-specific phospholipase C (PC-PLC), which produce lumenal DAG. Thus, we have established a successful method for monitoring both cytosolic and lumenal DAG dynamics at the endomembrane in living cells.
Bioinspired photonic structures by the reflector layer of firefly lantern for highly efficient chemiluminescence
Authors: Chen Linfeng , Shi Xiaodi , Li Mingzhu , Hu Junping , Sun Shufeng , Su Bin , Wen Yongqiang , Han Dong , Jiang Lei , Song Yanlin
Published: August 2015

Fireflies have drawn considerable attention for thousands of years due to their highly efficient bioluminescence, which is important for fundamental research and photonic applications. However, there are few reports on the reflector layer (RL) of firefly lantern, which contributes to the bright luminescence. Here we presented the detailed microstructure of the RL consisting of random hollow granules, which had high reflectance in the range from 450 nm to 800 nm. Inspired by the firefly lantern, artificial films with high reflectance in the visible region were fabricated using hollow silica microparticles mimicking the structure of the RL. Additionally, the bioinspired structures provided an efficient RL for the chemiluminescence system and could substantially enhance the initial chemiluminescence intensity. The work not only provides new insight into the bright bioluminescence of fireflies, but also is importance for the design of photonic materials for theranostics, detection and imaging.