bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunotherapy and endothelin receptor antagonists for treatment of castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Shao Ning , Wang Yang , Jiang Wen Yu , Qiao Di , Zhang Shi Ge , Wu Ye , Zhang Xiang Xiang , Wang Jiu Ling , Ding Yi , Feng Ning Han
Published: March 2013

Recently, novel therapies of prostate cancer, such as immunotherapy, endothelin receptor antagonists, novel androgen receptor antagonist and novel taxanes, and others have been introduced into clinical practice. This study was performed to summarize these results of immunotherapy and endothelin receptor antagonists in the treatment of castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and derive a more precise estimation of their effect on future treatment. The PubMed database, references of published trials, and review articles were searched. Two reviewers independently extracted data of these trials. We used hazard ratios (HRs) to assess the effects on overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), or time to disease progression (TTP), and relative risk (RR) for the different types of toxicity. In addition, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) give a sense of the precision of the estimate. Nine randomized controlled trials were ultimately identified. The pooled HR showed that immunotherapy could prolong OS significantly in patients with CRPC compared to placebo (HR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.58–0.83, p < 0.001). Endothelin receptor antagonists also had modest benefits (HR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.82–1.00, p = 0.046). Nevertheless, there were no significant benefits from both therapies on PFS or TTP. In addition, immunotherapy led to more fatigue, pyrexia, chills, and endothelin receptor antagonists led to more peripheral edema, anemia, and dyspnea. Our article suggested that the very acceptable toxicity and improving OS in patients with CRPC made immunotherapy an attractive option for such patients. However, future studies with thoughtful clinical trial designs are warranted.
Self‐healing, an intrinsic property of biomineralization processes
Authors: Müller Werner E. G. , Wang Xiaohong , Jochum Klaus Peter , Schröder Heinz C.
Published: March 2013

The sponge siliceous spicules are formed enzymatically via silicatein, in contrast to other siliceous biominerals. Originally, silicatein had been described as a major structural protein of the spicules that has the property to allow a specific deposition of silica onto their surface. More recently, it had been unequivocally demonstrated that silicatein displays a genuine enzyme activity, initiating and maintaining silica biopolycondensation at low precursor concentrations (<2 mM). Even more, as silicatein becomes embedded into the biosilica polymer, formed by the enzyme, it retains its functionality to enable a controlled biosilica deposition. The protection of silicatein through the biosilica mantel is so strong that it conserves the functionality of the enzyme for thousands of years. The implication of this finding, the preservation of the enzyme function over such long time periods, is that the intrinsic property of silicatein to display its enzymatic activity remains in the biosilica deposits. This self‐healing property of sponge biosilica can be utilized to engineer novel hybrid materials, with silicatein as a functional template, which are more resistant toward physical stress and fracture. Those hybrid materials can even be used for the fabrication of silica dielectrics coupled to optical nanowires. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(5):382–396, 2013.
Neuron‐like PC12 cell patterning on a photoactive self‐assembled monolayer
Authors: Cheng Nan , Cao Xudong
Published: March 2013

A new approach to pattern cells using photochemistry and self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) was described in this study. Photocleavable 4,5‐dimethoxy‐2‐nitrobenzyl chloroformate (NVOC) protected amine on an alkanethiol‐gold SAM was developed for cell patterning. The cleavage of NVOC and the deprotection of amines on the SAM were controlled spatially by two sequential UV exposures with a photomask. Biomolecule patterning was achieved by introducing cell nonadhesive poly(ethylene glycol) after the first exposure and subsequently cell adhesive protein laminin after the second exposure to create surface cell adhesiveness differential for cell patterning. UV–Vis spectrophotometry was used to determine the photolysis of caged self‐assembled molecules; in addition, water contact angle, atomic force microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize properties of different surfaces. To test the efficacy of resulting surfaces in patterning cells, a neuron‐like cell line, PC12 cell line, was used. The in vitro cell studies showed successful PC12 cell patterns on the photoactive SAM surfaces. This patterning technique is unique in that it does not rely on cell adhesive or nonadhesive properties of the starting base material as both cell adhesive and cell nonadhesive molecules were individually introduced onto the base material surface through photo‐uncaging at preselected regions for the ultimate cell patterning. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3066–3075, 2013.
Automated discovery of chemically reasonable elementary reaction steps
Authors: Zimmerman Paul M.
Published: March 2013

Due to the significant human effort and chemical intuition required to locate chemical reaction pathways with quantum chemical modeling, only a small subspace of possible reactions is usually investigated for any given system. Herein, a systematic approach is proposed for locating reaction paths that bypasses the required human effort and expands the reactive search space, all while maintaining low computational cost. To achieve this, a range of intermediates are generated that represent potential single elementary steps away from a starting structure. These structures are then screened to identify those that are thermodynamically accessible, and then feasible reaction paths to the remaining structures are located. This strategy for elementary reaction path finding is independent of atomistic model whenever bond breaking and forming are properly described. The approach is demonstrated to work well for upper main group elements, but this limitation can easily be surpassed. Further extension will allow discovery of multistep reaction mechanisms in a single computation. The method is highly parallel, allowing for effective use of modern large‐scale computational clusters. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth of river mouth bars in sheltered bays in the presence of frontal waves
Authors: Nardin W. , Mariotti G. , Edmonds D. A. , Guercio R. , Fagherazzi S.
Published: March 2013

One of the key processes for the formation of deltas and their fluvial networks is the deposition of mouth bars in front of prograding distributaries. Waves influence mouth bar growth, but it is not clear how and to what extent. Toward this end, we conduct a modeling study on deltas forming in sheltered bays, where waves are locally generated and both longshore currents and surf zone are absent. We focus on the simplified case of a homopycnal river plume subject to frontal wave attack, and we begin by isolating the effects of waves on jet spreading. An analytical model for the hydrodynamic interaction between incoming waves and a turbulent expanding jet is developed and tested with the numerical model Delft3D coupled to the wave model SWAN. Both the analytical model and Delft3D predict that incoming surface gravity waves increase the spreading of the jet and the interaction between wave and current boundary layers causes an increase in bottom friction. To investigate how waves influence mouth bar morphodynamics, a set of numerical simulations is run with Delft3D‐SWAN utilizing a geometry and wave characteristics typical of sheltered bays. Our numerical results show that in the presence of waves, mouth bars form up to 35% closer to the river mouth and 40% faster when compared to cases without waves. The distance from the river mouth to the stagnated mouth bar decreases with increasing wave height and wave period. The timescale of bar formation is inversely proportional to wave height and directly proportional to wave period. Our modeling study suggests that wave influence on mouth bar growth is complex. Small waves, like the ones modeled here, promote mouth bar formation via increased jet spreading and faster formation time, which in turn should create deltas with more distributary channels. On the other hand, large waves suppress mouth bar formation, as seen in other studies, leading to fewer distributary channels.
Perceived control and sleep in hospitalized older adults: A sound hypothesis?
Authors: Adachi Marie , Staisiunas Paul G. , Knutson Kristen L. , Beveridge Claire , Meltzer David O. , Arora Vineet M.
Published: March 2013

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

To examine the associations between perceived control over sleep, noise levels, sleep duration, and noise complaints in a cohort of hospitalized adults.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

General medicine ward in an academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred eighteen hospitalized patients age 50 years and over (mean age, 65 years; 57% female; 67% African American).

MEASUREMENTS

Sleep duration was measured via wrist actigraphy, and noise levels in patient rooms were measured via sound monitors. Validated questionnaires were used to assess sleep characteristics at baseline and sleep quality for each night. Perceived control over sleep was measured at baseline using the Sleep Self‐Efficacy (SSE) scale (range 9–45).

RESULTS

The mean SSE score was 32.1 (standard deviation, 9.4), and the median score was 34 (interquartile range, 24–41). Average sleep duration for patients in the hospital was 333 minutes (5.5 hours). Forty‐two percent of patients complained of noise disrupting their sleep. Linear regression clustered by subject showed that above median SSE was associated with longer sleep duration (+55 minutes 95% confidence interval [CI]: 14, 97; P = 0.010). This association remained significant after controlling for objective noise levels and patient demographics (+50 minutes 95% CI: 11, 90; P = 0.014). In logistic regression controlling for noise level and patient demographics, those patients with high SSE were 51% less likely to complain of noise disruptions (odds ratio: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.25, 0.96; P = 0.039).

CONCLUSION

Higher perceived control over sleep is associated with longer sleep duration, better sleep quality, and fewer reports of noise disruptions. In addition to noise control, interventions to boost perceived control may improve in‐hospital sleep. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2013;8:184–190. © 2013 Society of Hospital Medicine
Subdigital and subcaudal microornamentation in chamaeleonidae—A comparative study
Authors: Spinner Marlene , Westhoff Guido , Gorb Stanislav N.
Published: March 2013

Locomotion on horizontal and vertical substrates requires effective attachment systems. In three clades of arboreal and rupicolous Iguanidae, Gekkota and Scincidae adhesive systems consisting of microscopic hair‐like structures (setae) have been evolved independently. Also the substrate contacting sites on toes and tails of chameleons (Chamaeleonidae) are covered with setae. In the present comparative scanning electron microscopy study, we show that representatives from the chamaeleonid genera Calumma, Chamaeleo, Furcifer, and Trioceros feature highly developed setae that are species‐specific and similar on their feet and tail. These 10 μm long, unbranched setae rather resemble those in anoline and scincid lizards than the larger and branched setae of certain gecko species. In contrast to the thin triangular tips of other lizards, all examined species of the genera Furcifer and Calumma and one of the five examined species of the genus Trioceros have spatulate tips. All other examined species of genera Trioceros and Chamaeleo bear setae with narrowed, fibrous tips. Unlike the setae of other lizards, chamaeleonid setal tips do not show any orientation along the axis of the toes, but they are flexible to bend in any direction. With these differences, the chameleon's unique microstructures on the zygodactylous feet and prehensile tail rather increase friction for arboreal locomotion than being a shear‐induced adhesive system as setal pads of other lizards. J. Morphol., 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human papillomavirus genotypes distribution in cervical samples from Uruguayan women
Authors: Ramas Viviana , Mirazo Santiago , Bonilla Sylvia , Mendoza Laura , Lago Olga , Basiletti Jorge , González Joaquin , Picconi Maria Alejandra , Arbiza Juan
Published: March 2013

Persistent infection with high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical preneoplasic lesions and invasive cervical cancer. This study evaluated the prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes in cervical exfoliated cells from Uruguayan women. Five hundred sixty‐eight cervical specimens were examined by PCR using MY09/11 primer set, and were genotyped by restriction enzyme digestion (RFLP). Some of the samples which remained undetermined were reanalyzed by PGMY PCR combined with reverse line blot hybridization. Overall, about 42% of samples were positive for HPV; 96% in high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, 66% in low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, 15% in atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance, and 19% in samples negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy. HPV 16 was the most commonly found genotype, followed by HPV 68 and 58. Within low risk—HPV genotypes 6, 61, and 11 were the most frequent. This is the first cross‐sectional study, accounting for prevalence and genotype distribution of HPV in Uruguayan women. J. Med. Virol. 85:845–851, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular characterization of clinical isolates of herpes simplex virus type 1 collected in a tertiary‐care hospital in Dublin, Ireland
Authors: Rose Lisa , Crowley Brendan
Published: March 2013

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) is a ubiquitous human pathogen. While there has been extensive research into the evolutionary relationships among herpesviruses, there is little data on the evolutionary relationship of HSV‐1 based on sequence analysis of clinical isolates. The present study aims to be the first to document the molecular epidemiology and genetic diversity and frequency of recombination of HSV‐1 (n = 42) clinical isolates in Ireland. The entire 1,171 bp of the gI‐1 gene and 717 bp of the gG‐1 gene of 42 clinical Irish isolates were amplified, sequenced and the phylogenies reconstructed. Putative recombinants were examined using bootscan analysis. Phylogenetic reconstruction of the nucleotide sequence alignments of the entire genes of amplified glycoproteins gI and gG suggested that three distinct HSV‐1 genogroups were circulating in the Irish population. At least 15 HSV‐1 intergenic recombinants with a recombination point between gI and gG, and 11 HSV‐1 intragenic recombinants were detected. There was no evident association between genetic group and gender, disease recurrence or anatomical site of infection. Genital isolates (n = 30) belonged to all genogroups. However, two HSV‐1 isolates, Irl 31 and Irl32, from a patient with severe mucocutaneous infection nonresponsive to acyclovir and isolated over a prolonged period were both intragenic and intergenic recombinants. The detection of variability and recombination in gG and gI genes of both HSV‐1 may provide a mechanism to evade the host immune response thereby maintaining the viral genome. The variability and recombination detected may also have implications for the detection, diagnosis and treatment of HSV. J. Med. Virol. 85:839–844, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequence variation of human papillomavirus Type 31 long control region: Phylogenetic and functional implications
Authors: Ferenczi Annamária , Gyöngyösi Eszter , Szalmás Anita , Hernádi Zoltán , Tóth Zoltán , Kónya József , Veress György
Published: March 2013

About one‐third of human papillomavirus (HPV) types infect the anogenital tract. High‐risk genital HPV types (such as HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, and 35) are linked causally to the development of cervical cancer. The long control region (LCR) of the HPV genome regulates the replication and transcription of the viral genome. In this study, the functional significance of nucleotide sequence variation within the LCR of HPV 31 was investigated. The LCR was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from 41 HPV 31 positive cervical samples of Hungarian women. A phylogenetic tree constructed from the nucleotide sequences of the LCR variants revealed the presence of three intratypic variant lineages of HPV 31, in accordance with previous results. In order to explore the functional consequences of sequence variation in the LCR of HPV 31, selected LCR variants were cloned into a luciferase reporter vector, transfected into C33‐A cells and tested in luciferase reporter assays. Significant differences were found between the transcriptional activities of HPV 31 LCR variants belonging to different variant lineages. As the LCR is governing the transcription of the E6 and E7 oncogenes, the differences in the transcriptional activities of LCR variants may be associated with differences in their oncogenic potential. J. Med. Virol. 85:852–859, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of the anti‐HBV activity of HLP1–23, a human lactoferrin‐derived peptide
Authors: Florian Paula E. , Macovei Alina , Lazar Catalin , Milac Adina L. , Sokolowska Izabela , Darie Costel C. , Evans Robert W. , Roseanu Anca , Branza‐Nichita Norica
Published: March 2013

Lactoferrin (Lf) was shown to exhibit its antiviral activity at an early phase of viral infection and a mechanism whereby the protein interacts with host cell surface molecules has been suggested. In this study, human Lf (HLf) and seven HLf‐derived synthetic peptides (HLP) corresponding to the N‐terminal domain of the native protein (1–47 amino acids sequence) were assayed for their capacity to prevent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and replication using the HepaRG and HepG2.2.2.15 cell lines. Of the series tested, four peptides showed 40–75% inhibition of HBV infection in HepaRG cells, HLP1–23, containing the GRRRR cationic cluster, being the most potent. Interestingly, this cluster is one of the two glycosaminoglycan binding sites of the native HLf involved in its antiviral activity; however, the mechanism of the HLP1–23 action was different from that of the full‐length protein, the peptide inhibiting HBV infection when pre‐incubated with the virus, while no effect was observed on the target cells. It is suggested that the cationic cluster is sufficient for the peptide to interact stably with negatively charged residues on the virion envelope, while the absence of the second glycosaminoglycan binding site prevents its efficient attachment to the cells. In conclusion, this peptide may constitute a non‐toxic approach for potential clinical applications in inhibiting HBV entry by neutralizing the viral particles. J. Med. Virol. 85:780–788, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Distribution of injected technetium99m‐labeled mesenchymal stem cells in horses with naturally occurring tendinopathy
Authors: Becerra Patricia , Valdés Vázquez Miguel A. , Dudhia Jayesh , Fiske‐Jackson Andrew R. , Neves Francisco , Hartman Neil G. , Smith Roger K.W.
Published: March 2013

This study aimed to investigate immediate cell survival and distribution following different administration routes of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into naturally occurring tendon injuries. Ten million MSCs, labeled with technetium‐99m hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime, were implanted into 13 horses with naturally occurring tendon or ligament injuries intra‐lesionally, intravenously and by regional perfusion, and traced for up to 48 h using planar gamma scintigraphy. Labeling efficiencies varied between 1.8% and 18.5% (mean 9.3%). Cells were retained in the damaged area after intra‐lesional administration but only 24% of cells were still present within the tendon after 24 h. After intravenous injection, cells largely distributed to the lung fields, with no detectable cells in the tendon lesions. Significant labeling of the tendon lesions was observed in 11/12 horses following regional perfusion but at a lower level to intra‐lesional injection. The highest cell numbers were retained after intra‐lesional injection, although with considerable cell loss, while regional perfusion may be a viable alternative for MSC delivery. Cells did not “home” to damaged tendon in large numbers after intravenous administration. Cells were detected in the lungs most frequently after intravascular administration, although with no adverse effects. Low cell retention has important implications for designing effective clinical therapies for human clinical use. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31:1096–1102, 2013
Manipulating vineyard nitrogen on a saline site: 1. Effect of nitrogen on growth, grape yield and nutrients of Vitis vinifera L. cv Shiraz
Authors: Bell Sally‐Jean , Francis I. Leigh
Published: March 2013

Background

With increased prevalence of saline irrigation water applied to vines worldwide, the issue of appropriate nitrogen management is of concern. Different rates of nitrogen per vine as urea were applied to Shiraz vines on own roots over four seasons in a low‐rainfall, saline growing environment.

Results

Application of nitrogen in the vineyard early in the season not only altered the vine nitrogen status but also increased some other elements in the petioles, notably chloride and sodium but also manganese and magnesium. In contrast, nitrogen application decreased petiole phosphorus. In comparison with the majority of nitrogen studies on non‐saline sites, nitrogen‐induced growth responses were restricted under the saline conditions in this study. While some changes in canopy density in response to nitrogen were observed, this did not affect light interception in the fruit zone. Yield responses were varied and could be related to the nutritional conditions under which bud development and flowering took place.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that current best practice guidelines, in terms of rate of nitrogen applied, for correcting a nitrogen deficiency on a non‐saline site may not be appropriate for saline sites and that application of nitrogen can increase the potential for salt toxicity in vines. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Public Mental Health Clients with Severe Mental Illness and Probable Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Trauma Exposure and Correlates of Symptom Severity
Authors: Lu Weili , Yanos Philip T. , Silverstein Steven M. , Mueser Kim T. , Rosenberg Stanley D. , Gottlieb Jennifer D. , Duva Stephanie Marcello , Kularatne Thanuja , Dove‐Williams Stephanie , Paterno Danielle , Hawthorne Danielle , Giacobbe Giovanna
Published: March 2013

Individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) are at greatly increased risk for trauma exposure and for the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study reports findings from a large, comprehensive screening of trauma and PTSD symptoms among public mental health clients in a statewide community mental health system. In 851 individuals with SMI and probable PTSD, childhood sexual abuse was the most commonly endorsed index trauma, followed closely by the sudden death of a loved one. Participants had typically experienced an average of 7 types of traumatic events in their lifetime. The number of types of traumatic events experienced and Hispanic ethnicity were significantly associated with PTSD symptom severity. Clients reported experiencing PTSD in relation to events that occurred on average 20 years earlier, suggesting the clinical need to address trauma and loss throughout the lifespan, including their prolonged after‐effects.
Fire mediated patterns of population densities in mountain big sagebrush bird communities
Authors: Holmes Aaron L. , Robinson W. Douglas
Published: March 2013

We employed a chronosequence approach to evaluate patterns of bird abundance in relation to post‐fire vegetation recovery in mountain big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata vaseyana). We estimated population density for 12 species of birds within the perimeters of 4 fires that had undergone 8–20 years of vegetation recovery and on adjacent unburned areas in the northwestern Great Basin, USA. Six species showed negative responses to fire persisting up to 20 years. Two species showed positive responses with effects persisting for <20 years. Understory vegetation was similar between burned and unburned areas irrespective of recovery time, and shrub canopy cover was similar between burned and unburned sites after 20 years of recovery. Persistent reductions in bird densities lead us to conclude that shrub canopy cover alone is not a sufficient metric for predicting recovery of songbird abundances following disturbance in mountain big sagebrush. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled randomized trial evaluating the ability of low‐level laser therapy to improve the appearance of cellulite
Authors: Jackson Robert F. , Roche Gregory C. , Shanks Steven C.
Published: March 2013

Background and Objective

Cellulite is present in 90% of post‐adolescent women. Several technologies have been developed for treating cellulite; however, they all involve some degree of massage or mechanical manipulation. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a low‐level laser light device employing green 532 nm diodes as a stand‐alone procedure without massage or mechanical manipulation for improving the appearance of cellulite in the thighs and buttocks.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

This double‐blind study randomized subjects to undergo treatment with the LLLT device (N = 34) or sham treatment (N = 34). During a 2‐week treatment phase, each subject received three weekly treatment sessions 2–3 days apart. During each session, the front and back of the hips, thighs, and waist were exposed for 15 minutes (30 minutes total).

Results

Nineteen subjects in the LLLT group achieved a decrease of one or more stages on the Nurnberger–Muller grading scale (55.88%) versus three subjects (8.82%) in the sham‐treated group (P < 0.0001). Two LLLT‐treated subjects achieved 2‐stage improvements on the Nurnberger–Muller Scale at the 2‐week study endpoint and four did at the 6‐week follow‐up evaluation versus none of the sham‐treated subjects at either time point. Subjects treated with LLLT achieved a significant decrease in combined baseline thigh circumference at the 2‐week study endpoint and 6‐week follow‐up evaluation (for each, p < 0.0001 vs. baseline) versus no change for sham‐treated subjects. LLLT‐treated subjects also showed significant decreases in mean baseline body weight (P < 0.0005), BMI (P < 0.001), and percent BSA affected by cellulite (P < 0.0005) versus no change for any parameter among sham‐treated subjects. Most LLLT‐treated subjects (62.1%) were Very Satisfied or Somewhat Satisfied with the improvement in cellulite they received versus 25.8% of sham‐treated subjects. There were no reports of adverse events.

Conclusions

Low‐level laser therapy using green 532 nm diodes is safe and effective for improving the appearance of cellulite in the thighs and buttocks. In contrast with other technologies, LLLT is effective as a stand‐alone procedure without requiring massage or mechanical manipulation. Future studies will assess the long‐term benefits of LLLT for the treatment of cellulite. Lasers Surg. Med. 45: 141–147, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Influence of Magnesium Acetate on the Structure Formation of Polystyrene‐block‐poly(4‐vinylpyridine)‐Based Integral‐Asymmetric Membranes
Authors: Gallei Markus , Rangou Sofia , Filiz Volkan , Buhr Kristian , Bolmer Sabrina , Abetz Clarissa , Abetz Volker
Published: March 2013

The influence of magnesium acetate on the non‐solvent‐induced phase separation (NIPS) process of amphiphilic polystyrene‐block‐poly(4‐vinylpyridine)s to gain integral‐asymmetric membranes is investigated. Highly uniform pores over the large areas of the membrane can be achieved, and the average pore diameter is adjusted by varying the total molar mass of the block copolymers used. These stimuli‐responsive membranes, which are solution cast in the absence or the presence of small amounts of magnesium acetate, are directly compared, showing a remarkable effect on the pore structures and their openness. Minor salt addition is considered to influence the polarity of the solvents used in a positive manner such that the NIPS process can be improved significantly.

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“One‐Pot” In Situ Formation of Gold Nanoparticles within Poly(acrylamide) Hydrogels
Authors: Dolya Natalya , Rojas Oscar , Kosmella Sabine , Tiersch Brigitte , Koetz Joachim , Kudaibergenov Sarkyt
Published: March 2013

This paper focuses on two different strategies to incorporate gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) into the matrix of polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogels. Poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) is used as both reducing and stabilizing agent for the formation of AuNPs. In addition, the influence of an ionic liquid (IL) (i.e., 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium ethylsulfate) on the stability of the nanoparticles and their immobilization in the hydrogel is investigated The results show that AuNPs surrounded by a shell containing PEI and IL, synthesized according to the “one‐pot” approach, are much better immobilized within the PAAm hydrogel. Hereby, the IL is responsible for structural changes in the hydrogel as well as the improved stabilization and embedding of the AuNPs into the polymer gel matrix.

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31P NMR relaxation of cortical bone mineral at multiple magnetic field strengths and levels of demineralization
Authors: Seifert Alan C. , Wright Alexander C. , Wehrli Suzanne L. , Ong Henry H. , Li Cheng , Wehrli Felix W.
Published: March 2013

Recent work has shown that solid‐state 1H and 31P MRI can provide detailed insight into bone matrix and mineral properties, thereby potentially enabling differentiation of osteoporosis from osteomalacia. However, 31P MRI of bone mineral is hampered by unfavorable relaxation properties. Hence, accurate knowledge of these properties is critical to optimizing MRI of bone phosphorus. In this work, 31P MRI signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) was predicted on the basis of T1 and T2* (effective transverse relaxation time) measured in lamb bone at six field strengths (1.5–11.7 T) and subsequently verified by 3D ultra‐short echo‐time and zero echo‐time imaging. Further, T1 was measured in deuterium‐exchanged bone and partially demineralized bone. 31P T2* was found to decrease from 220.3 ± 4.3 µs to 98.0 ± 1.4 µs from 1.5 to 11.7 T, and T1 to increase from 12.8 ± 0.5 s to 97.3 ± 6.4 s. Deuteron substitution of exchangeable water showed that 76% of the 31P longitudinal relaxation rate is due to 1H–31P dipolar interactions. Lastly, hypomineralization was found to decrease T1, which may have implications for 31P MRI based mineralization density quantification. Despite the steep decrease in the T2*/T1 ratio, SNR should increase with field strength as B00.4 for sample‐dominated noise and as B01.1 for coil‐dominated noise. This was confirmed by imaging experiments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of dietary protein to carbohydrate balance on energy intake, fat storage, and heat production in mice
Authors: Huang Xin , Hancock Dale P. , Gosby Alison K. , McMahon Aisling C. , Solon Samantha M.C. , Le Couteur David G. , Conigrave Arthur D. , Raubenheimer David , Simpson Stephen J.
Published: March 2013

Objective:

Protein leverage plays a role in driving increased energy intakes that may promote weight gain. The influence of the protein to carbohydrate ratio (P:C) in diets of C57BL/6J mice on total energy intake, fat storage, and thermogenesis was investigated.

Design and Methods:

Male mice (9 weeks old) were provided ad libitum access to one of five isocaloric diets that differed in P:C. Food intake was recorded for 12 weeks. After 16 weeks, white adipose tissue (WAT) and brown adipose tissue (BAT) deposits were dissected, weighed, and the expression levels of key metabolic regulators were determined in BAT. In a separate cohort, body surface temperature was measured in response to 25 diets differing in protein, fat, and carbohydrate content.

Results:

Mice on low P:C diets (9:72 and 17:64) had greater total energy intake and increased WAT and BAT stores. Body surface temperature increased with total energy intake and with protein, fat, and carbohydrate, making similar contributions per kJ ingested. Expression of three key regulators of thermogenesis were downregulated in BAT in mice on the lowest P:C diet.

Conclusions:

Low‐protein diets induced sustained hyperphagia and a generalized expansion of fat stores. Increased body surface temperature on low P:C diets was consistent with diet‐induced thermogenesis (DIT) as a means to dissipate excess ingested energy on such diets, although this was not sufficient to prevent development of increased adiposity. Whether BAT was involved in DIT is not clear. Increased BAT mass on low P:C diets might suggest so, but patterns of thermogenic gene expression do not support a role for BAT in DIT, although they might reflect failure of thermogenic function with prolonged exposure to a low P:C diet.
Combined influence of leisure‐time physical activity and hip circumference on all‐cause mortality
Authors: Østergaard J.N. , Grønbæk M. , Ängquist L. , Schnohr P. , Sørensen T.I.A. , Heitmann B.L.
Published: March 2013

Hip circumference has been shown to be inversely associated with mortality. Muscle atrophy in the gluteofemoral region may be a possible explanation and thus physical activity is likely to play an important role.

Objective:

To estimate the combined effects of hip circumference and physical activity on mortality.

Design and Methods:

From the Copenhagen City Heart Study, 3,358 men and 4,350 women aged 21 to 93 years without pre‐existing diagnosis of diabetes, stroke, ischemic heart disease, or cancer in 1991‐1994 and with complete information on the variables of interest were included in the analyses. The participants were followed to 2009 in the Danish Civil Registration System, with 1.3% loss to follow‐up and 2,513 deaths. Hazard ratios (HR) were estimated for combinations of physical activity and hip circumference.

Results:

Hip circumference was inversely associated with mortality irrespective of being physically active or not. However, being physically active seemed to counterbalance some of the adverse health effects of a small hip circumference; when comparing inactive to active, the excess mortality at the 25th percentile of hip circumference is 40% in men (HR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.14‐1.72) and 33% in women (HR = 1.33, CI: 1.10‐1.62). These associations were observed after adjustment for waist circumference and weight change in the 6 months before the examination.

Conclusion:

Less effects of physical activity were found in individuals with greater hip circumferences. A small hip circumference appears hazardous to survival. However, being physically active may counterbalance some of the hazardous effects of a small hip circumference.
Adiposity‐related inflammation: Effects of pregnancy
Authors: Friis Camilla M. , Paasche Roland Marie C. , Godang Kristin , Ueland Thor , Tanbo Tom , Bollerslev Jens , Henriksen Tore
Published: March 2013

In the nonpregnant population, there is extensive evidence of a systemic low‐grade inflammatory status in relation to excess adipose tissue. Less is known about the relation during pregnancy.

Objective:

Our main objective was therefore to explore the effect of pregnancy on adiposity‐related systemic inflammation.

Design and Methods:

This study is a longitudinal cohort study of 240 pregnant women of Scandinavian heritage at Oslo University hospital—Rikshospitalet, Norway from 2002 to 2005. The inflammatory markers (C‐reactive protein [CRP], Interleukin‐6 [IL‐6], monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 [MCP‐1], IL1‐Ra, tumor necrosis factor receptor II, and IL‐10) were measured at four timepoints during pregnancy and analyzed by enzyme immuno‐assay. The women were categorized based on BMI at inclusion (BMI <25, 25–30, and >30 kg/m2). Data were analyzed by Friedman‐test, Wilcoxon signed rank test, or Kruskal–Wallis test as appropriate.

Results:

Maternal adiposity was associated with significantly higher circulatory levels of several inflammatory markers (CRP, MCP‐1, IL‐6, and IL‐1Ra). However, this proinflammatory upregulation was not evident toward the end of pregnancy, as levels of CRP, MCP‐1, and IL‐6 were not any longer significantly different between the BMI categories.

Conclusions:

Although normal pregnancy exhibits proinflammatory features, this does not seem to have additive or synergistic effects on the inflammation associated with adiposity. On the contrary, we found that the BMI‐dependent increase in proinflammatory markers was not evident at the end of pregnancy.
The missense variation landscape of FTO, MC4R, and TMEM18 in obese children of African Ancestry
Authors: Deliard Sandra , Panossian Saarene , Mentch Frank D. , Kim Cecilia E. , Hou Cuiping , Frackelton Edward C. , Bradfield Jonathan P. , Glessner Joseph T. , Zhang Haitao , Wang Kai , Sleiman Patrick M.A. , Chiavacci Rosetta M. , Berkowitz Robert I. , Hakonarson Hakon , Zhao Jianhua , Grant Struan F.A.
Published: March 2013

Objective:

Common variation at the loci harboring fat mass and obesity (FTO), melanocortin receptor 4 (MC4R), and transmembrane protein 18 (TMEM18) is consistently reported as being statistically most strongly associated with obesity. Investigations if these loci also harbor rarer missense variants that confer substantially higher risk of common childhood obesity in African American (AA) children were conducted.

Design and Methods:

The exons of FTO, MC4R, and TMEM18 in an initial subset of our cohort were sequenced, that is, 200 obese (BMI≥95th percentile) and 200 lean AA children (BMI≤5th percentile). Any missense exonic variants that were uncovered went on to be further genotyped in a further 768 obese and 768 lean (BMI≤50th percentile) children of the same ethnicity.

Results:

A number of exonic variants were observed from our sequencing effort: seven in FTO, of which four were non‐synonymous (A163T, G182A, M400V, and A405V), thirteen in MC4R, of which six were non‐synonymous (V103I, N123S, S136A, F202L, N240S, and I251L), and four in TMEM18, of which two were non‐synonymous (P2S and V113L). Follow‐up genotyping of these missense variants revealed only one significant difference in allele frequency between cases and controls, namely with N240S in MC4R (Fisher's exact P = 0.0001).

Conclusion:

In summary, moderately rare missense variants within the FTO, MC4R, and TMEM18 genes observed in our study did not confer risk of common childhood obesity in African Americans except for a degree of evidence for one known loss‐of‐function variant in MC4R.
Food label accuracy of common snack foods
Authors: Jumpertz Reiner , Venti Colleen A. , Le Duc Son , Michaels Jennifer , Parrington Shannon , Krakoff Jonathan , Votruba Susanne
Published: March 2013

Nutrition labels have raised awareness of the energetic value of foods, and represent for many a pivotal guideline to regulate food intake. However, recent data have created doubts on label accuracy.

Objective:

We tested label accuracy for energy and macronutrient content of prepackaged energy‐dense snack food products. We measured “true” caloric content of 24 popular snack food products in the U.S. and determined macronutrient content in 10 selected items.

Design and Methods:

Bomb calorimetry and food factors were used to estimate energy content. Macronutrient content was determined according to Official Methods of Analysis. Calorimetric measurements were performed in our metabolic laboratory between April 20th and May 18th and macronutrient content was measured between September 28th and October 7th of 2010.

Results and Conclusion:

Serving size, by weight, exceeded label statements by 1.2% [median] (25th percentile −1.4, 75th percentile 4.3, P = 0.10). When differences in serving size were accounted for, metabolizable calories were 6.8 kcal (0.5, 23.5, P = 0.0003) or 4.3% (0.2, 13.7, P = 0.001) higher than the label statement. In a small convenience sample of the tested snack foods, carbohydrate content exceeded label statements by 7.7% (0.8, 16.7, P = 0.01); however fat and protein content were not significantly different from label statements (−12.8% [−38.6, 9.6], P = 0.23; 6.1% [−6.1, 17.5], P = 0.32). Carbohydrate content explained 40% and serving size an additional 55% of the excess calories. Among a convenience sample of energy‐dense snack foods, caloric content is higher than stated on the nutrition labels, but overall well within FDA limits. This discrepancy may be explained by inaccurate carbohydrate content and serving size.
Metformin modifies the exercise training effects on risk factors for cardiovascular disease in impaired glucose tolerant adults
Authors: Malin Steven K. , Nightingale Joy , Choi Sung‐Eun , Chipkin Stuart R. , Braun Barry
Published: March 2013

Impaired glucose tolerant (IGT) adults are at elevated risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Exercise or metformin reduce CVD risk, but the efficacy of combining treatments is unclear.

Objective:

To determine the effects of exercise training plus metformin (EM), compared with each treatment alone, on CVD risk factors in IGT adults.

Design and Methods:

Subjects were assigned to placebo (P), metformin (M), exercise training plus placebo (EP), or EM (8/group). In a double‐blind design, P or 2,000 mg/d of M were administered for 12 weeks and half performed aerobic and resistance training 3 days/week for ∼60 min/day at 70% pretraining heart rate peak. Outcomes included adiposity, blood pressure (BP), lipids, and high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP). Z‐scores were calculated to determine metabolic syndrome severity.

Results:

M and EM, but not EP, decreased body weight compared with P (P < 0.05). M and EP lowered systolic blood pressure by 6% (P < 0.05), diastolic blood pressure by 6% (P < 0.05), and hs‐CRP by 20% (M: trend P = 0.06; EP: P < 0.05) compared with P. Treatments raised high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.05; EM: trend P = 0.06) compared with P and lowered triacyglycerol (P < 0.05) and metabolic syndrome Z‐score compared with baseline (EP; trend P = 0.07 and EM or M; P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Although exercise and/or metformin improve some CVD risk factors, only training or metformin alone lowered hs‐CRP and BP. Thus, metformin may attenuate the effects of training on some CVD risk factors and metabolic syndrome severity in IGT adults.
The impact of primary care resident physician training on patient weight loss at 12 months
Authors: Jay Melanie R. , Gillespie Colleen C. , Schlair Sheira L. , Savarimuthu Stella M. , Sherman Scott E. , Zabar Sondra R. , Kalet Adina L.
Published: March 2013

Objective:

It is unclear whether training physicians to counsel obese patients leads to weight loss. This study assessed whether a 5‐h multimodal longitudinal obesity curriculum for residents on the basis of the 5As (assess, advise, agree, assist, and arrange) was associated with weight loss in their obese patients.

Design and Methods:

Twenty‐three primary care internal medicine residents were assigned by rotation schedule to intervention (curriculum) or control groups. We then conducted follow‐up chart reviews to determine weight change at up to 12 months following the index visit. 158 obese patients (76 in the intervention group and 82 in the control group) completed exit interviews; 22 patients who presented for acute care at the index visit were excluded. Chart reviews were conducted on the 46 patients in the intervention group and 41 patients in the control group who were seen again within 12 months of the index visit and had follow‐up weight measurements.

Results:

The main outcome of interest was mean change in weight at 12 months compared between the intervention and control groups. Patients of residents in the intervention group had a mean weight loss of −1.53 kg (s.d. = 3.72) although the patients of those in the control group had a mean weight gain of 0.30 kg (s.d. = 3.60), P = 0.03. Six (15.8%) patients in the intervention group and 2 (5.4%) patients in the control group lost >5% body weight (P = 0.14).

Conclusions:

Although the magnitude of weight loss was small, this study shows that training physicians to counsel patients can produce measurable patient outcomes.
Effect of the mediterranean diet with and without weight loss on markers of inflammation in men with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Richard Caroline , Couture Patrick , Desroches Sophie , Lamarche Benoît
Published: March 2013

Objective:

Intervention studies on the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) have often led to weight loss, which may have contributed to the purported anti‐inflammatory effects of the MedDiet. To investigate the impact of the MedDiet consumed under controlled feeding conditions before (−WL) and after weight loss (+WL) on markers of inflammation in men with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Design and Methods:

Subjects (N = 26, male, 24–65 years) with MetS first consumed a North American control diet for 5 weeks followed by a MedDiet for 5 weeks both in isocaloric feeding conditions. After a 20‐week weight loss period in free‐living conditions (10 ± 3% reduction in body weight, P < 0.01), participants consumed the MedDiet again under isocaloric‐controlled feeding condition for 5 weeks.

Results:

MedDiet − WL significantly reduced plasma C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentrations (−26.1%, P = 0.02) and an arbitrary inflammatory score (−9.9%, P = 0.01) that included CRP, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐18, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) compared with the control diet. The MedDiet + WL significantly reduced plasma IL‐6 (−20.7%) and IL‐18 (−15.6%, both P ≤ 0.02) concentrations compared with the control diet but had no further significant impact on plasma CRP concentration. Participants with a reduction in waist circumference ≥8.5 cm after MedDiet + WL showed significantly greater reductions in inflammation markers than those with a change in waist circumference <8.5 cm.

Conclusions:

Thus, consuming MedDiet even in the absence of weight loss significantly reduces inflammation. However, the degree of waist circumference reduction with weight loss magnifies the impact of the MedDiet on other markers of inflammation associated with MetS in men.
Mechanical efficiency during a cycling test is not lower in children with excess body weight and low aerobic fitness
Authors: Jabbour Georges , Lambert Marie , O'Loughlin Jennifer , Tremblay Angelo , Mathieu Marie‐Eve
Published: March 2013

Objective:

The aims of this study were to assess the association between (i) body weight status and mechanical efficiency (ME); and (ii) ME and aerobic fitness in children aged 8‐10 years.

Design and Methods:

The sample included 464 prepubertal children (258 boys). A total of 288 were normal‐weight (NW); 84 overweight (OW); and 92 obese (OB). Subjects performed an incremental maximal cycling test with indirect calorimetry. MEcrude (%) was calculated for the first five stages of the protocol (25, 50, 75, 100, and 125 W) as follows: work produced, in watts total energy consumption, in watts−1·100−1. For MEnet, resting energy consumption was subtracted from total energy consumption. Energy consumption was calculated as follows: (4.94·respiratory exchange ratio + 16.04) · VO2, in ml·min−1·60−1.

Results:

MEcrude was significantly higher in NW compared to OW and OB children and in OW compared to OB children at 25, 50, 75, 100, and 125 W. In contrast, MEnet did not differ significantly among NW, OW, and OB children. No statistically significant association was found between crude or net ME and peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak; in ml·kg−1·min−1); therefore, the ability to transfer chemical energy to mechanical work is maintained in children aged 8‐10 years old regardless of body weight status and aerobic fitness. Moreover, higher values of MEcrude during exercise are explained by elevated oxygen consumption at rest and not by energy consumed during physical activity.

Conclusions:

These results highlight that prepubertal children are equally efficient since they are able to perform a physical task such as cycling using the same proportion of energy regardless of their body weight status.