bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The planar cell polarity protein Vangl2 is required for retinal axon guidance
Authors: Leung Vicki , Iliescu Alexandra , Jolicoeur Christine , Gravel Michel , Apuzzo Sergio , Torban Elena , Cayouette Michel , Gros Philippe
Published: May 2015

Vangl2 plays a critical role in the establishment of planar cell polarity (PCP). Previously, we detected expression of Vangl2 in the developing retina during late embryogenesis, which led us to investigate the possible role of Vangl2‐mediated PCP signaling in eye development. We have generated a Vangl2BGeo knock‐in mouse allowing us to evaluate Vangl2 mRNA expression during retinal development, and used an isoform‐specific antibody to examine Vangl2 protein expression in cryosections. To investigate the role of Vangl2 in retinal development, we examined eyes taken from embryos homozygous for independent alleles of Looptail (Lp, Lpm1jus) mutant mice. We found that Vangl2 mRNA and protein are dynamically expressed in the developing embryonic and postnatal retina, with Vangl2 expression becoming progressively restricted to the ganglion cell layer and optic nerve as the retina matures. The expression pattern of Vangl2 transcript and protein is most prominent in retinal ganglion cells (RGC), and their axons. Additionally, we show that Vangl2 is required for retinal and optic nerve development as Vangl2 Lp/Lp mutant embryos display a significantly reduced eye size, marked thickening of the retina, and striking abnormalities in the morphology of the optic nerve (significant hypoplasia, and aberrant exit trajectory). Notably, we identified a salient intraretinal axon guidance defect in Vangl2 Lp/Lp mutant embryos through which axon bundles traverse the entire thickness of the retina and become trapped within the subretinal space. Our observations identify a new and essential role for Vangl2‐dependent PCP signaling in the intraretinal path‐finding of RGC axons. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 76: 150–165, 2016
Within‐subject haemoglobin variation in elite athletes: a longitudinal investigation of 13 887 haemoglobin concentration readings
Authors: Lobigs Louisa M. , Knight Emma J. , Schumacher Yorck Olaf , Gore Christopher J.
Published: May 2015

The Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) estimates individualized reference ranges for key blood markers, such as haemoglobin concentration ([Hb]), using predetermined population mean, between‐ and within‐subject variances. Here, we aim to reassess previously published estimates for within‐subject [Hb] variance and determine whether sex‐, analyzer‐, sport‐, or season‐specific values are required. Our reference population contains 7723 male (mean ± SD, 22.3 ± 4.6 years of age) and 6164 female (21.6 ± 4.3) athlete observations from 49 sports. [Hb] was calculated using one of three cytometers; Bayer‐H3 (1997–1999, n = 4554), ADVIA‐120 (1999–2010, n = 8636) and Sysmex XT‐2000i (2010–2012, n = 697). The final model was a linear mixed model for [Hb] with analyzer (H3, ADVIA, Sysmex), sex (male, female), sport (power‐endurance, endurance, skill, team, disabled and non‐athletes), season (summer, winter), and the interaction between sex and sport as fixed effects and athlete as a random effect. The model included an exponential correlation structure to allow for within‐subject autocorrelation, and allowed different within‐subject variances for each sport. Within‐subject [Hb] variance (g2/L2) was significantly less for power endurance (35.09, 95% CI 33.50 to 36.76), disabled (25.82, 95% CI 21.71 to 35.28) and non‐athletes (34.30, 95% CI 28.53 to 35.87) than for endurance (40.35, 95% CI 39.62 to 47.22) and team sports (38.70, 95% CI 37.68 to 39.76) athletes. No new evidence was found to justify adjusting the current within‐subject [Hb] variance estimate. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Umbilical cord blood plasma contains soluble NKG2D ligands that mediate loss of natural killer cell function and cytotoxicity
Authors: Cox Steven T. , Laza‐Briviesca Raquel , Pearson Hayley , Soria Bernat , Gibson Daniel , Gomez Susana , Madrigal J. Alejandro , Saudemont Aurore
Published: May 2015

NK cells play a key role in innate elimination of virally infected or neoplastic cells but they can be circumvented by immunoevasive mechanisms enabling viral spread or tumor progression. Engagement of the NKG2D activating receptor with soluble forms of its ligand is one such mechanism of inducing NK cell hyporesponsiveness. Interestingly, this immunoevasive strategy among others is described at the maternal‐fetal interface where tolerance of the semi‐allogeneic fetus is required to allow successful human pregnancy. Understanding of maternal‐fetal tolerance is increasing but mechanisms preventing alloreactivity of fetal immune cells against the maternal host are less well understood. The study of umbilical cord blood has enabled insight of the fetal immune system, which appears immature and inert. We have found that soluble NKG2D ligands (sNKG2DLs) are present in cord blood plasma (CBP) and associate with adult NK cell hyporesponsiveness demonstrated by reduced CD107a expression and secretion of IFN‐γ upon stimulation. The capacity of NK cells to kill K562 cells or proliferate was also reduced by incubation with CBP; however, physical removal of sNKG2DL from CBP restored K562 lytic function and NKG2D expression. Therefore, our results strongly suggest sNKG2DLs are expressed in CBP as a mechanism of fetal‐maternal tolerance in human pregnancy.
Preparation and evaluation of monodispersed, submicron, non‐porous silica particles functionalized with β‐CD derivatives for chiral‐pressurized capillary electrochromatography
Authors: Yangfang Lu , Hui Wang , Yun Xue , Xue Gu , Yan Wang , Chao Yan
Published: May 2015

Submicron, non‐porous, chiral silica stationary phase has been prepared by the immobilization of functionalized β‐CD derivatives to isocyanate‐modified silica via chemical reaction and applied to the pressurized capillary electrochromatography (pCEC) enantio‐separation of various chiral compounds. The submicron, non‐porous, cyclodextrin‐based chiral stationary phases (sub_μm‐CSP2) exhibited excellent chiral recognition of a wide range of analytes including clenbuterol hydrochloride, mexiletine hydrochloride, chlorpheniramine maleate, esmolol hydrochloride, and metoprolol tartrate. The synthesized submicron particles were regularly spherical and uniformly non‐porous with an average diameter of around 800 nm and a mean pore size of less than 2 nm. The synthesized chiral stationary phase was packed into 10 cm × 100 μm id capillary columns. The sub_μm‐CSP2 column used in the pCEC system showed better separation of the racemates and at a higher rate compared to those used in the capillary liquid chromatography mode (cLC) system. The sub_μm‐CSP2 possessed high mechanical strength, high stereoselectivity, and long lifespan, demonstrating rapid enantio‐separation and good resolution of samples. The column provided an efficiency of up to 170 000 plates/m for n‐propylbenzene.
Down‐regulation of malic enzyme 1 and 2: Sensitizing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells to therapy‐induced senescence
Authors: Woo Sang Hyeok , Yang Liang P. , Chuang Hui‐Ching , Fitzgerald Alison , Lee Ho‐Young , Pickering Curtis , Myers Jeffrey N. , Skinner Heath D.
Published: May 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to present the results of our investigation of malic enzyme (ME) expression and the induction of senescence in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

P53, ME1, ME2, and aspects of cellular metabolism, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) were investigated in HNSCC cell lines.

Results

Both metformin and ionizing radiation inhibited the expression of ME2, but not ME1, in HNSCC. Knockdown of ME1 or ME2 potentiated therapy‐induced senescence in HNSCC cells regardless of p53 status, and led to increased p21 and generation of ROS. Therapy‐induced senescence in ME‐depleted cells was blocked by the antioxidant N‐acetyl cysteine. Finally, high expression of ME2 was associated with poorer overall survival (OS) in patients with HNSCC.

Conclusion

Depletion of ME enhances therapy‐induced senescence and seems driven largely by ROS. ME2 expression in HNSCC may be associated with poor outcome, providing a possible link between therapy‐induced senescence and patient outcome, and indicating a potential therapeutic benefit of targeting ME2. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E934–E940, 2016
Reirradiation for second primary or recurrent cancers of the head and neck: Dosimetric and outcome analysis
Authors: Garg Shivank , Kilburn Jeremy M. , Lucas John T. , Randolph David , Urbanic James J. , Hinson William H. , Kearns William T. , Porosnicu Mercedes , Greven Kathryn
Published: May 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine outcomes, toxicity, and dosimetric characteristics of patients treated with reirradiation for head and neck cancers.

Methods

Fifty patients underwent ≥2 courses of radiation therapy (RT) postoperatively or definitively with or without chemotherapy. Composite dose volume histograms (DVHs) for selected anatomic structures were correlated with grade ≥3 late toxicity.

Results

Median initial and retreatment radiation dose was 64 and 60 Gy, respectively. Median overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and 1‐year PFS rates were 18 months, 11 months, and 45%, respectively, with 13 months median follow‐up. Thirty‐four percent of patients experienced grade ≥3 late toxicity with 1 death from carotid blowout. The DVH corresponding to the carotid blowout fell above the third quartile compared with other patients.

Conclusion

Our analysis is the first to systematically evaluate the dose to the carotid artery using composite dosimetry in head and neck reirradiation patients, and demonstrates a promising technique for evaluating the dose to other normal tissue structures. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E961–E969, 2016
Back to the Future: Implications for the Field of HRM of the Multistakeholder Perspective Proposed 30 Years Ago
Authors: Beer Michael , Boselie Paul , Brewster Chris
Published: May 2015

Thirty years on from the seminal works on human resource management (HRM) by Beer et al., we examine how the subject has developed. We offer a normative review, based on that model and critique the assumption that the business of HRM is solely to improve returns to owners and shareholders. We identify the importance of a wider view of stakeholders to practitioners and how academic studies on the periphery of HRM are beginning to adopt such a view. We argue that the HRM studies so far have given us much valuable learning but that the subject has now reached a point where we need to take a wider, more contextual, more multilayered approach founded on the long‐term needs of all relevant stakeholders. The original Beer et al. model remains a valuable guide to the next 30 years of HRM. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Joint Book Reading and Receptive Vocabulary: A Parallel Process Model
Authors: Meng Christine
Published: May 2015

The purpose of the present study was to understand the reciprocal, bidirectional longitudinal relation between joint book reading and English receptive vocabulary. To address the research goals, a nationally representative sample of Head Start children, the Head Start Family and Child Experiences Survey (2003 cohort), was used for analysis. The children were aged 3–4 years at programme entry. The mothers' average age at programme entry was 39 years old. A parallel process model was utilized to examine the growth factors of joint book reading and receptive vocabulary in parallel. Three significant findings emerged: (1) initial levels of English receptive vocabulary and joint book reading positively covaried; (2) English receptive vocabulary and joint book reading were positively and reciprocally related to each other; and (3) slopes for joint book reading and English receptive vocabulary negatively covaried. Results suggest that joint book reading can support and scaffold Head Start children's English receptive vocabulary. Reciprocally, Head Start children's English receptive vocabulary appears to predict the extent to which they engage in joint book reading at home. Moreover, the frequency of joint book reading decreases as the children demonstrate higher levels of English receptive vocabulary. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of the miR‐302/367 cluster in glioblastoma cells suppresses tumorigenic gene expression patterns and abolishes transformation related phenotypes
Authors: Yang Chul Min , Chiba Tomohiro , Brill Boris , Delis Natalia , von Manstein Viktoria , Vafaizadeh Vida , Oellerich Thomas , Groner Bernd
Published: May 2015

Cellular transformation is initiated by the activation of oncogenes and a closely associated developmental reprogramming of the epigenetic landscape. Transcription factors, regulators of chromatin states and microRNAs influence cell fates in development and stabilize the phenotypes of normal, differentiated cells and of cancer cells. The miR‐302/367 cluster, predominantly expressed in human embryonic stem cells (hESs), can promote the cellular reprogramming of human and mouse cells and contribute to the generation of iPSC. We have used the epigenetic reprogramming potential of the miR‐302/367 cluster to “de‐program” tumor cells, that is, hift their gene expression pattern towards an alternative program associated with more benign cellular phenotypes. Induction of the miR‐302/367 cluster in extensively mutated U87MG glioblastoma cells drastically suppressed the expression of transformation related proteins, for example, the reprogramming factors OCT3/4, SOX2, KLF4 and c‐MYC, and the transcription factors POU3F2, SALL2 and OLIG2, required for the maintenance of glioblastoma stem‐like tumor propagating cells. It also diminished PI3K/AKT and STAT3 signaling, impeded colony formation in soft agar and cell migration and suppressed pro‐inflammatory cytokine secretion. At the same time, the miR‐302/367 cluster restored the expression of neuronal markers of differentiation. Most notably, miR‐302/367 cluster expressing cells lose their ability to form tumors and to establish liver metastasis in nude mice. The induction of the miR‐302/367 cluster in U87MG glioblastoma cells suppresses the expression of multiple transformation related genes, abolishes the tumor and metastasis formation potential of these cells and can potentially become a new approach for cancer therapy.
MicroRNA‐409‐3p suppresses colorectal cancer invasion and metastasis partly by targeting GAB1 expression
Authors: Bai Rongpan , Weng Chunhua , Dong Haojie , Li Siqi , Chen Guangdi , Xu Zhengping
Published: May 2015

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and its metastasis accounts for the majority of deaths. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying CRC progression are not well characterized. In this study, we identified miR‐409‐3p as a tumor suppressor of CRC. MiR‐409‐3p expression was significantly downregulated in CRC tissue compared to adjacent non‐tumor tissue, and reduced miR‐409‐3p expression was correlated with CRC metastasis. In vitro and in vivo studies revealed that miR‐409‐3p negatively regulated CRC metastatic capacities, including suppressing cancer cell migration, invasion and metastasis. To explore the mechanism of action of miR‐409‐3p, we adopted a pathway and pathophysiological event‐based target screening and validation approach, and found nine known metastasis‐related genes as potential targets. The 3′‐UTR binding assays between the candidates and miR‐409‐3p suggested that only GAB1, NR4A2 and LMO4 were directly regulated by the miRNA. However, endogenous expression analysis revealed that only GAB1 was modulated by miR‐409‐3p in CRC cells at both the mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, we provided evidence to conclude that GAB1 was partially responsible for miR‐409‐3p‐mediated metastasis. Taken together, our data demonstrate that miR‐409‐3p is a metastatic suppressor, and post‐transcriptional inhibition of the oncoprotein GAB1 is one of the mechanisms of action of this miRNA. Our finding suggests miR‐409‐3p might be a novel target for CRC metastasis treatment.
A quantitative microscopic approach to predict local recurrence based on in vivo intraoperative imaging of sarcoma tumor margins
Authors: Mueller Jenna L. , Fu Henry L. , Mito Jeffrey K. , Whitley Melodi J. , Chitalia Rhea , Erkanli Alaattin , Dodd Leslie , Cardona Diana M. , Geradts Joseph , Willett Rebecca M. , Kirsch David G. , Ramanujam Nimmi
Published: May 2015

The goal of resection of soft tissue sarcomas located in the extremity is to preserve limb function while completely excising the tumor with a margin of normal tissue. With surgery alone, one‐third of patients with soft tissue sarcoma of the extremity will have local recurrence due to microscopic residual disease in the tumor bed. Currently, a limited number of intraoperative pathology‐based techniques are used to assess margin status; however, few have been widely adopted due to sampling error and time constraints. To aid in intraoperative diagnosis, we developed a quantitative optical microscopy toolbox, which includes acriflavine staining, fluorescence microscopy, and analytic techniques called sparse component analysis and circle transform to yield quantitative diagnosis of tumor margins. A series of variables were quantified from images of resected primary sarcomas and used to optimize a multivariate model. The sensitivity and specificity for differentiating positive from negative ex vivo resected tumor margins was 82 and 75%. The utility of this approach was tested by imaging the in vivo tumor cavities from 34 mice after resection of a sarcoma with local recurrence as a bench mark. When applied prospectively to images from the tumor cavity, the sensitivity and specificity for differentiating local recurrence was 78 and 82%. For comparison, if pathology was used to predict local recurrence in this data set, it would achieve a sensitivity of 29% and a specificity of 71%. These results indicate a robust approach for detecting microscopic residual disease, which is an effective predictor of local recurrence.
What, Why, and How They Read
Authors: Becnel Kim , Moeller Robin A.
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study is to better understand the reading patterns and preferences of rural teen readers and the cultures of reading that do or do not exist in the rural communities in which the teens reside. In addition, the researchers sought to discover, by conducting a series of focus groups, whether rural teen readers felt connected to mainstream young adult literary culture and in what ways this connection might manifest itself. The results suggest that rural teens enjoy reading books, followed by magazines and online content; that they obtain their reading materials through borrowing from friends and family and purchasing from retail outlets rather than from local libraries; that they talk to family, friends, and teachers about books and reading; and that they feel strongly connected to the current world of young adult literature, using it as a vehicle through which to explore and develop their evolving identities.
Improving in‐kennel presentation of shelter dogs through response‐dependent and response‐independent treat delivery
Authors: Protopopova Alexandra , Wynne Clive D. L.
Published: May 2015

In a sequence of studies, we evaluated 2 behavioral interventions designed to decrease undesirable in‐kennel behaviors of shelter dogs. In Experiment 1, we compared the efficacy of a simple pairing of person with food (response‐independent treat delivery) to an increasing interval differential‐reinforcement‐of‐other‐behavior (DRO) procedure and a control condition. Both procedures decreased the median percentage of undesirable behavior from baseline (88.13%, interquartile range [IQR] = 52.78% and 66.43%, IQR = 89.06% respectively), and the control condition increased behavior by 15.13% (IQR = 32.08%), H(2) = 6.49, p = .039. In Experiment 2, we assessed the efficacy of a response‐independent procedure on the whole shelter population. We found a 68% decrease from baseline in the number of dogs that behaved undesirably (U = –4.16, p < .001). Our results suggest that a response‐independent procedure is equivalent in efficacy to a DRO procedure to decrease undesirable in‐kennel behavior of shelter dogs.
Inhibitory effect of super‐hydrophobicity on silver release and antibacterial properties of super‐hydrophobic Ag/TiO2 nanotubes
Authors: Zhang Licheng , Zhang Lihai , Yang Yun , Zhang Wei , Lv Houchen , Yang Fei , Lin Changjian , Tang Peifu
Published: May 2015

The antibacterial properties of super‐hydrophobic silver (Ag) on implant surface have not yet to be fully illuminated. In our study, we investigate the protective effects of super‐hydrophobic coating of silver/titanium dioxide (Ag/TiO2) nanotubes against bacterial pathogens, as well as its pattern of Ag release. Ag/TiO2 nanotubes are prepared by a combination of electrochemical anodization and pulse electrodeposition. The super‐hydrophobic coating is prepared by modifying the surface of Ag/TiO2 nanotubes with 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H‐perfluorooctyl‐triethoxysilane (PTES). Surface features and Ag release are examined by SEM, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, contact‐angle measurement, and inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). The antibacterial activity of super‐hydrophobic coating Ag/TiO2 nanotubes is investigated both in vitro and in vivo. Consequently, the super‐hydrophobic coating on Ag/TiO2 nanotubes shows a regularly arranged structure; and nano‐Ag particles (10–30 nm) are evenly distributed on the surface or inside the nanotubes. The contact angles of water on the super‐hydrophobic coating Ag/TiO2 nanotubes are all above 150°. In addition, the super‐hydrophobic character displays a certain conserved effect that contributes to the sustained release of Ag. The super‐hydrophobic Ag/TiO2 nanotubes are also effective in inhibiting bacterial adhesion, killing the adhering bacteria and preventing postoperative infection in rabbits. Therefore, it is expected that the super‐hydrophobic Ag/TiO2 nanotubes which can contain the release of Ag, leading to stable release, may show a consistent surface antibacterial capability. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 1004–1012, 2016.
Replica state exchange metadynamics for improving the convergence of free energy estimates
Authors: Galvelis Raimondas , Sugita Yuji
Published: May 2015

Metadynamics (MTD) is a powerful enhanced sampling method for systems with rugged energy landscapes. It constructs a bias potential in a predefined collective variable (CV) space to overcome barriers between metastable states. In bias‐exchange MTD (BE‐MTD), multiple replicas approximate the CV space by exchanging bias potentials (replica conditions) with the Metropolis–Hastings (MH) algorithm. We demonstrate that the replica‐exchange rates and the convergence of free energy estimates of BE‐MTD are improved by introducing the infinite swapping (IS) or the Suwa‐Todo (ST) algorithms. Conceptually, IS and ST perform transitions in a replica state space rather than exchanges in a replica condition space. To emphasize this, the proposed scheme is called the replica state exchange MTD (RSE‐MTD). Benchmarks were performed with alanine polypeptides in vacuum and water. For the systems tested in this work, there is no significant performance difference between IS and ST. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chemoselective Staudinger‐Phosphite Reaction on the Azido Groups of 2,4,6‐Triazido‐3,5‐dibromopyridine
Authors: Chapyshev Sergei V. , Chernyak Alexander V. , Yakushchenko Igor K.
Published: May 2015

2,4,6‐Triazido‐3,5‐dibromopyridine reacts with an equimolar amount of triethyl phosphite in ether at room temperature chemoselectively on the γ‐azido group to form 2,6‐diazido‐3,5‐dibromo‐4‐triethoxyphosphoriminopyridine as a single product. The latter adds another molecule of triethyl phosphite to give a mixture of 6‐azido‐2,4‐bis(triethoxyphosphorimino)‐3,5‐dibromopyridine and its tetrazolo[1,5‐a]pyridine isomer, the acidic hydrolysis of which affords 6‐azido‐2,4‐bis(diethoxyphosphoramino)‐3,5‐dibromopyridine. The study shows that the Staudinger‐phosphite reactions with heterocyclic polyazides occur selectively on the most electron‐deficient azido groups, opening up new prospects for preparation of new polyfunctional heterocyclic compounds.
Fast single‐beam‐CARS imaging scheme based on in silico optimization of excitation phases
Authors: Wipfler Alexander , Buckup Tiago , Motzkus Marcus
Published: May 2015

A novel scheme for the detection of known species with single‐beam coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering spectroscopy is presented in theory and simulations. The introduction of a simulation tool based on fast Fourier transforms allows a purely numerical optimization of excitation phases ex situ, to which we refer to as in silico optimization. Such an optimal phase is based on the encoding of vibrational resonances in specific spectral detection windows using multichannel measurements. The presented detection scheme offers a route to fast chemical selective imaging with high contrast and simplified data acquisition, thereby avoiding photodamage of sensitive biological samples. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Minimally invasive renal autotransplantation
Authors: Sood Akshay , Jeong Wooju , Ahlawat Rajesh , Abdollah Firas , Sammon Jesse D. , Bhandari Mahendra , Menon Mani
Published: May 2015

Minimally invasive renal allotransplantation techniques have been recently described; reported benefits include reduced morbidity/complications. These benefits have been successfully adapted for minimally invasive renal autotransplantation, however, in a non‐oncological setting. We, here, describe a novel alternative robot‐assisted renal autotransplantation technique, utilizing GelPOINT, which by permitting ex vivo graft examination and surgery might allow further broadening of indications for minimally‐invasive renal autotransplantation, to include complex oncological renal/ureteral lesions. Future studies are needed to evaluate the utility of these techniques. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015;112:717–722. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cutaneous siderosis secondary to intramuscular iron dextran treated with 755 nm Q‐switched alexandrite laser: A case report
Authors: Lloyd Amanda A. , Graves Michael S. , Ross Edward V.
Published: May 2015

Background

Cutaneous siderosis is accumulation of iron in the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue secondary to extravasation of an intramuscular or intravascular iron injection. It presents as varying shades of brown macules with no distinct contours. The hyperpigmentation is permanent without treatment.

Objective

Q‐switched lasers have been used effectively to treat lentigines and tattoos however, there is little data on the treatment of cutaneous siderosis with lasers. Our objective was to effectively treat cutaneous siderosis with a Q‐switched alexandrite laser.

Results

A 50‐year‐old female had received nine injections of intramuscular iron dextran, one injection every 2 weeks alternating right buttock and left buttock over the course of 5 months. A couple of weeks after her 9th injection which was on the left, she noted brown hyperpigmentation in the injection area with the left worse than the right. She waited 3 months for the hyperpigmentation to self‐resolve before presenting in our clinic. We utilized the Q‐switched alexandrite laser to treat the patient with a test spot. One week later, there was nice partial clearance from the test spot so we commenced full treatment of the hyperpigmentation. There was significant improvement after the first treatment and she has been treated 4 times with continued improvement over the past 2 months.

Conclusion

The Q‐switched alexandrite laser is a useful tool in the treatment of cutaneous siderosis secondary to iron injection. Lasers Surg. Med. 47:386–387, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Responsive Polymer‐Based Assemblies for Sensing Applications
Authors: Li Xue , Gao Yongfeng , Serpe Michael J.
Published: May 2015

Poly (N‐isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAm)‐based hydrogels and hydrogel particles (microgels) have been extensively studied since their discovery and “popularization” a few decades ago. While their uses seem to have no bounds, this Feature Article is focused on their development and application for sensing small molecules, macromolecules, and biomolecules. Hydrogel/microgel‐based photonic materials with order in one, two, or three dimensions are highlighted, which exhibit optical properties that depend on the presence and concentration of various analytes.

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Global classical solution to 1D compressible Navier–Stokes equations with no vacuum at infinity
Authors: Ye Yulin
Published: May 2015

C. Miao In this paper, we are concerned with the 1D Cauchy problem of the compressible Navier–Stokes equations with the viscosity μ(ρ) = 1+ρβ(β≥0). The initial density can be arbitrarily large and keep a non‐vacuum state
at far fields. We will establish the global existence of the classical solution for 0≤β < γ via a priori estimates when the initial density contains vacuum in interior interval or is away from the vacuum. We will show that the solution will not develop vacuum in any finite time if the initial density is away from the vacuum. To study the well‐posedness of the problem, it is crucial to obtain the upper bound of the density. Some new weighted estimates are applied to obtain our main results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fast and robust 3D T1 mapping using spiral encoding and steady RF excitation at 7 T: application to cardiac manganese enhanced MRI (MEMRI) in mice
Authors: Castets Charles R. , Ribot Emeline J. , Lefrançois William , Trotier Aurélien J. , Thiaudière Eric , Franconi Jean‐Michel , Miraux Sylvain
Published: May 2015

Mapping longitudinal relaxation times in 3D is a promising quantitative and non‐invasive imaging tool to assess cardiac remodeling. Few methods are proposed in the literature allowing us to perform 3D T1 mapping. These methods often require long scan times and use a low number of 3D images to calculate T1. In this project, a fast 3D T1 mapping method using a stack‐of‐spirals sampling scheme and regular RF pulse excitation at 7 T is presented. This sequence, combined with a newly developed fitting procedure, allowed us to quantify T1 of the whole mouse heart with a high spatial resolution of 208 × 208 × 315 µm3 in 10–12 min acquisition time. The sensitivity of this method for measuring T1 variations was demonstrated on mouse hearts after several injections of manganese chloride (doses from 25 to 150 µmol kg−1). T1 values were measured in vivo in both pre‐ and post‐contrast experiments. This protocol was also validated on ischemic mice to demonstrate its efficiency to visualize tissue damage induced by a myocardial infarction. This study showed that combining spiral gradient shape and steady RF excitation enabled fast and robust 3D T1 mapping of the entire heart with a high spatial resolution. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
BDDC for mixed‐hybrid formulation of flow in porous media with combined mesh dimensions
Authors: Šístek Jakub , Březina Jan , Sousedík Bedřich
Published: May 2015

We extend the balancing domain decomposition by constraints (BDDC) method to flows in porous media discretised by mixed‐hybrid finite elements with combined mesh dimensions. Such discretisations appear when major geological fractures are modelled by one‐dimensional or two‐dimensional elements inside three‐dimensional domains. In this set‐up, the global problem and the substructure problems have a symmetric saddle‐point structure, containing a ‘penalty’ block due to the combination of meshes. We show that the problem can be reduced by means of iterative substructuring to an interface problem, which is symmetric and positive definite. The interface problem can thus be solved by conjugate gradients with the BDDC method as a preconditioner. A parallel implementation of this algorithm is incorporated into an existing software package for subsurface flow simulations. We study the performance of the iterative solver on several academic and real‐world problems. Numerical experiments illustrate its efficiency and scalability. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proper generalized decomposition of a geometrically parametrized heat problem with geophysical applications
Authors: Zlotnik Sergio , Díez Pedro , Modesto David , Huerta Antonio
Published: May 2015

The solution of a steady thermal multiphase problem is assumed to be dependent on a set of parameters describing the geometry of the domain, the internal interfaces and the material properties. These parameters are considered as new independent variables. The problem is therefore stated in a multidimensional setup. The proper generalized decomposition (PGD) provides an approximation scheme especially well suited to preclude dramatically increasing the computational complexity with the number of dimensions. The PGD strategy is reviewed for the standard case dealing only with material parameters. Then, the ideas presented in [Ammar et al., “Parametric solutions involving geometry: A step towards efficient shape optimization.” Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Eng., 2014; 268:178–193] to deal with parameters describing the domain geometry are adapted to a more general case including parametrization of the location of internal interfaces. Finally, the formulation is extended to combine the two types of parameters. The proposed strategy is used to solve a problem in applied geophysics studying the temperature field in a cross section of the Earth crust subsurface. The resulting problem is in a 10‐dimensional space, but the PGD solution provides a fairly accurate approximation (error ≤1%) using less that 150 terms in the PGD expansion. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assignment of the Internal Vibrational Modes of C70 by Inelastic Neutron Scattering Spectroscopy and Periodic‐DFT
Authors: Refson Keith , Parker Stewart F.
Published: May 2015

The fullerene C70 may be considered as the shortest possible nanotube capped by a hemisphere of C60 at each end. Vibrational spectroscopy is a key tool in characterising fullerenes, and C70 has been studied several times and spectral assignments proposed. Unfortunately, many of the modes are either forbidden or have very low infrared or Raman intensity, even if allowed. Inelastic neutron scattering (INS) spectroscopy is not subject to selection rules, and all the modes are allowed. We have obtained a new INS spectrum from a large sample recorded at the highest resolution available. An advantage of INS spectroscopy is that it is straightforward to calculate the spectral intensity from a model. We demonstrate that all previous assignments are incorrect in at least some respects and propose a new assignment based on periodic density functional theory (DFT) that successfully reproduces the INS, infrared, and Raman spectra.
Comparing genetic counselor's and patient's perceptions of needs in prenatal chromosomal microarray testing
Authors: Walser Sarah A. , Kellom Katherine S. , Palmer Steven C. , Bernhardt Barbara A.
Published: May 2015

What's already known about this topic?

Most women desire comprehensive education about prenatal screening and testing for genetic disorders, but little is known about their specific needs pre‐testing and post‐testing. To develop guidelines for return of uncertain and incidental findings from prenatal genomic testing, data are needed on women's preferences for return of various types of results.

What does this study add?

This study adds to the limited knowledge of women's informational and resource needs associated with prenatal chromosomal microarray analysis testing and is one of the only studies to assess attitudes toward return of results among patients who have personal experience with prenatal genomic testing.
Optimization of the thermoelectric figure of merit in the transmutation‐doped and ordinary n‐Si crystals
Authors: Gaidar Galyna , Baranskii Petro
Published: May 2015

The fundamental differences between the transmutation‐doped and ordinary (doped by phosphorus through the melt when grown) n‐Si crystals were shown on the base of the analysis of the experimental data. It was established that in a transmutation‐doped n‐Si crystal the anisotropy parameter of thermoelectromotive force (thermo‐emf) of electron–phonon drag () increases with rising of the annealing temperature due to the increase of the longitudinal phonon component of thermo‐emf () with simultaneous reducing of the transverse component (). The effect of negative tensoresistance in the transmutation‐doped n‐Si crystals was found. The ways to optimize the thermoelectric figure of merit in ordinary and transmutation‐doped n‐Si crystals, which can be useful for practical utilization, were proposed.
Au nanodot lattices with well‐controlled size and density for thin organic solar cells
Authors: Kubo Wakana , Yokota Yukie , Tanaka Takuo
Published: May 2015

Size, shape, and density‐controlled metal nanostructure, Au nanodot lattices fabricated by electron beam lithography, were embedded in thin organic solar cell consisting of PC71BM:PCPDTBT. The effects of their size and density on device performance were examined. Even though dipole res‐onances of Au nanodots were consistent with the absorption range of the active materials, there were no improvements in device performance under any sizes and densities. In addition, under high volume density of Au nanodots to PEDOT:PSS layer, the device performance was deteriorated. These results indicated that not only size and density but also other factors which determine light scattering characteristics greatly affect the device performance of solar cells. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Intraclass and interclass correlation coefficient‐based feature selection in NIDS dataset
Authors: Vasudevan Alampallam Ramaswamy , Selvakumar Subramanian
Published: May 2015

Offline processing of network intrusion detection system (NIDS) dataset helps to mitigate network attacks. KDD CUP'99 was created using known network attacks in 1999. The changes in networking trend and advent of new attacks have raised the demand for new NIDS datasets. Recent test beds such as UNB‐ISCX, SSENet, and ITD‐UTM help in the evaluation and deployment of new network security algorithms. NIDS dataset generated from these test beds is used by the traditional feature selection methods, which focus on the whole dataset for the reduction of the number of features. Later, instead of whole dataset, selective dataset is used to choose the best feature set for a given attack. In this paper, the application of intraclass correlation coefficient and interclass correlation coefficient is proposed to achieve efficient target class‐specific feature subset. It is envisioned that such a feature subset would help in countering an attack type. Experiments were conducted on classification algorithms to validate on four datasets the effectiveness of the feature subsets on pairwise target class with and without applying our proposed feature selection algorithm. It is found that the detection rate increased and execution time and false alarms decreased considerably after applying the proposed feature selection algorithm. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Survey and benchmark of lightweight block ciphers for MSP430 16‐bit microcontroller
Authors: Cazorla Mickaël , Gourgeon Sylvain , Marquet Kévin , Minier Marine
Published: May 2015

For security applications in wireless sensor networks (WSNs), choosing best algorithms in terms of energy‐efficiency and of small memory requirements is a real challenge because the sensor networks are composed of low‐power entities. In some previous works, 12 block‐ciphers have been benchmarked on an ATMEL AVR ATtiny45 8‐bit microcontroller and the best candidates to use in the context of small embedded platforms have been deduced. This article proposes to study on the TI 16‐bit microcontroller MSP430 most of the recent lightweight block cipher proposals as well as some conventional block ciphers. First, we describe the design of the chosen block ciphers with a security and an implementation summary and we then present some implementation tests performed on our dedicated platform. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Capturing Cancer: Emerging Microfluidic Technologies for the Capture and Characterization of Circulating Tumor Cells
Authors: Qian Weiyi , Zhang Yan , Chen Weiqiang
Published: May 2015

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) escape from primary or metastatic lesions and enter into circulation, carrying significant information of cancer progression and metastasis. Capture of CTCs from the bloodstream and the characterization of these cells hold great significance for the detection, characterization, and monitoring of cancer. Despite the urgent need from clinics, it remains a major challenge to capture and retain these rare cells from human blood with high specificity and yield. Recent exciting advances in micro/nanotechnology, microfluidics, and materials science have enable versatile, robust, and efficient cell isolation and processing through the development of new micro/nanoengineered devices and biomaterials. This review provides a summary of recent progress along this direction, with a focus on emerging methods for CTC capture and processing, and their application in cancer research. Furthermore, classical as well as emerging cellular characterization methods are reviewed to reveal the role of CTCs in cancer progression and metastasis, and hypotheses are proposed in regard to the potential emerging research directions most desired in CTC‐related cancer research.
Glycocalyx‐Mimicking Nanoparticles for Stimulation and Polarization of Macrophages via Specific Interactions
Authors: Su Lu , Zhang Weiyi , Wu Xiulong , Zhang Yufei , Chen Xi , Liu Guangwei , Chen Guosong , Jiang Ming
Published: May 2015

Malignant tumors develop multiple mechanisms to impair and escape from antitumor immune responses, of which tumor‐associated macrophages that often show immunosuppressive phenotype (M2), play a critical role in tumor‐induced immunosuppression. Therefore, strategies that can reverse M2 phenotype and even enhance immune‐stimulation function of macrophage would benefit tumor immunotherapy. In this paper, self‐assembled glyco‐nanoparticles (glyco‐NPs), as artificial glycocalyx, have been found to be able to successfully induce the polarization of mouse primary peritoneal macrophages from M2 to inflammatory type (M1). The polarization change was evidenced by the decreased expression of cell surface signaling molecules CD206 and CD23, and the increased expression of CD86. Meanwhile, secretion of cytokines supported this polarization change as well. More importantly, this phenomenon is observed not only in vitro, but also in vivo. As far as we known, this is the first report about macrophage polarization being induced by synthetic nanomaterials. Moreover, preparation, characterization of these glyco‐NPs and their interaction with the macrophages are also demonstrated.
Physicochemical changes of maize starch treated by ball milling with limited water content
Authors: Shi Lei , Cheng Fei , Zhu Pu‐Xin , Lin Yi
Published: May 2015

A granular maize starch with limited amounts of water was ball milled, and the structural changes were investigated. The chemical changes were analyzed in terms of amylose content, hydroxyl and carbonyl contents, and intrinsic viscosity. The granule or aggregation structures were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, laser particle diameter analyzer, and scanning electron microscope. The gelatinization and paste property were measured with a Rapid Visco‐Analyzer. Under the ball‐milling conditions of 25 wt% water content based on the starch, a ball diameter of 15 mm, a weight ratio of ball to starch at 4:1, and milling time of 3 h, the ball‐milled starch granules did not have apparent gelatinization or agglomeration. After the ball milling, the system temperature increased by 25.5°C. The resultant starch granules displayed a flat‐ or oval‐shaped pattern without edges, and their particle size slightly increased with a narrower size distribution. The ball‐milled starch was mildly oxidized, and the intrinsic viscosity and the amylopectin content decreased a little. The crystallinity of granules decreased greatly from 31.1 to 13.0%, concurrent with a decrease in the thermal transition enthalpy. The pasting temperature increased, while the peak viscosity, breakdown, and setback greatly decreased. Our results indicated that the limited additional water in the ball‐milling process helps expand the amorphous region in starch granules and could reduce damage level of starch molecules and granules.
The Exposure Dilemma: Qualitative Study of Medical Student Opinions and Perceptions of Radiology
Authors: Visscher Kari L. , Nassrallah Georges , Faden Lisa , Wiseman Daniele
Published: May 2015

Purpose

According to a national survey of over 900 Canadian medical students, the stereotype of an isolated radiologist working in a dark room persists. The purpose of this study is to use qualitative methods to explore the ways exposure to radiology in medical school impacts students’ opinions and perceptions of radiology and radiologists.

Methods

After receiving ethics approval, 4 focus groups were conducted, 1 per year of undergraduate medical training at Western University. The transcribed audio recordings and accompanying field notes, together with the open-ended questions obtained from the national survey, were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Five hundred sixty students in medical school years 1 and 2 (preclerkship) participated in the national survey and 18 in the focus groups; 336 students in years 3 and 4 [clerkship] participated in the national survey and 10 in the focus groups. Three major findings emerged from the analysis of the data. First, stereotypes are perpetuated mainly through informal interactions. Second, there is limited exposure to radiology and radiologists in medical school, especially in preclerkship. Third, students want to know what to expect if they choose a career in radiology.

Conclusions

Medical students, especially those in preclerkship, are seeking accurate information to modify or reinforce radiology stereotypes. Limited exposure makes interactions with students impactful and mentorship essential. Students want meaningful interactions with radiologists and radiology residents.
Hypnoanesthesia in Vascular Access
Authors: Bierman Steven F. , Sivieri Irma S.
Published: May 2015

Purpose: A case is presented wherein hypnosis alone provided anesthesia for the ultrasound-guided placement of a device into right basilic vein. This is the first reported case of hypnoanesthesia for ultrasound-guided vascular access.

Method: Ericksonian hypnosis was employed by the operator while a second clinician performed the vascular access procedure. The general method of induction and the anesthetic suggestions are disclosed and discussed.

Results: The patient's experience was painless and, by her own repeated reports, pleasurable.

Conclusions: Hypnosis is merely a refinement of everyday communication wherein ideas are expressed to increase the likelihood of their actualization. This case illustrates how a few carefully chosen sentences can alter a vascular access patient's entire experience.