bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Dietary Patterns with Stable Isotope Ratios of Collagen and Starch Grain Analysis of Dental Calculus at the Iron Age Cemetery Site of Heigouliang, Xinjiang, China
Authors: Wang T. T. , Fuller B. T. , Wei D. , Chang X. E. , Hu Y. W.
Published: May 2015

Here, we present δ13C and δ15N results for the dietary reconstruction of nomadic pastoralists from the Iron Age (ca. 1000 bc–8 ad) site of Heigouliang. The human (n = 27) δ13C values range from −19.6‰ to −17.0‰ with a mean value of −18.5 ± 0.5‰, and the δ15N results range from 11.5‰ to 13.8‰ with a mean value of 12.4 ± 0.6‰. The results indicated that animals, like sheep, were part of the predominately C3 terrestrial diet, but two individuals have values greater than −18‰ that is indicative of some input of C4 foods in their diets. Because of a lack of faunal samples and to supply complementary information concerning plant consumption, teeth from four individuals were analysed for dental calculus microfossils. Starch grains were found to correspond to Triticeae and Poaceae, possibly including wheat (Triticum aestivum), barley (Hordeum vulgare), highland barley (H. vulgare L var. nudum), foxtail millet (Setaria italica) and/or common millet (Panicum miliaceum). At the population level, no dietary differences were detected between burial owners and sacrificial victims, but variations were found when specific tombs were analysed. In particular, individuals with bone trauma associated with armed conflict also had distinct isotopic signatures possibly suggesting that some of the sacrificial victims could have been captured warriors that were sacrificed for the burial owners. While limited, the results are some of the first from an Iron Age population from Xinjiang and contribute to our understanding of the dietary patterns of this region. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Subclinical kidney injury before and 1 year after bariatric surgery among adolescents with severe obesity
Authors: Xiao Nianzhou , Devarajan Prasad , Inge Thomas H. , Jenkins Todd M. , Bennett Michael , Mitsnefes Mark M.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To assess subclinical kidney injury in adolescents with severe obesity by measuring biomarkers of early kidney disease and to assess changes in the levels of these biomarkers following bariatric procedures.

Methods

Twenty‐two adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery with no microalbuminuria and normal kidney function were selected. Urinary NGAL, IL‐18, and KIM‐1 were measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Biomarker levels were compared to 44 age‐gender‐matched lean controls.

Results

Subjects with obesity had a mean baseline BMI of 48 kg/m2 that decreased by 34% at 1‐year follow‐up. Urine NGAL, IL‐18, and KIM‐1 were significantly elevated in subjects with obesity compared to lean controls at baseline. The obese cohort had a further significant increase in NGAL and KIM‐1 at 6 months, followed by decline at 1 year. The overall change in levels of all three biomarkers through 1 year after surgery, however, was not significant compared to baseline.

Conclusions

Adolescent severe obesity is associated with increased urinary excretion of novel biomarkers of kidney injury, despite no microalbuminuria or decreased kidney function. This subclinical kidney injury persists 1 year after significant weight loss induced by bariatric surgery, suggesting that close, long‐term follow‐up of kidney status is warranted in these adolescents.
Resveratrol attenuates microvascular inflammation in sepsis via SIRT‐1‐Induced modulation of adhesion molecules in ob/ob mice
Authors: Wang Xianfeng , Buechler Nancy L. , Yoza Barbara K. , McCall Charles E. , Vachharajani Vidula T.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Obesity, a sirtuin‐1 (SIRT‐1) ‐deficient state, increases morbidity and resource utilization in critically ill patients. SIRT‐1 deficiency increases microvascular inflammation and mortality in early sepsis. The objective of the study was to study the effect of resveratrol (RSV), a SIRT‐1 activator, on microvascular inflammation in obese septic mice.

Methods

ob/ob and C57Bl/6 (WT) mice were pretreated with RSV versus dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (vehicle) prior to cecal ligation and puncture (sepsis). We studied (1) leukocyte/platelet adhesion, (2) E‐selectin, ICAM‐1, and SIRT‐1 expression in small intestine, and (3) 7‐day survival. A group of RSV‐treated mice received SIRT‐1 inhibitor (EX‐527) with sepsis induction, and leukocyte/platelet adhesion and E‐selectin/ICAM‐1 expression were studied. We treated endothelial (HUVEC) cells with RSV to study E‐selectin/ICAM‐1 and p65‐acetylation (AC‐p65) in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

Results

RSV treatment decreased leukocyte/platelet adhesion and E‐selectin/ICAM‐1 expression with increased SIRT‐1 expression in septic ob/ob and WT mice, decreased E‐selectin/ICAM‐1 expression via increased SIRT‐1 expression, and decreased AC‐p65 expression in HUVEC. EX‐527 abolished RSV‐induced attenuation of microvascular inflammation in ob/ob septic mice. Finally, ob/ob mice in the sepsis+RSV group had significantly increased 7‐day survival versus the sepsis+vehicle group.

Conclusions

RSV increases SIRT‐1 expression in ob/ob septic mice to reduce microvascular inflammation and improves survival.
GLP‐1 receptor agonists: Nonglycemic clinical effects in weight loss and beyond
Authors: Ryan Donna , Acosta Andres
Published: May 2015

Obective

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonists are indicated for treatment of type 2 diabetes since they mimic the actions of native GLP‐1 on pancreatic islet cells, stimulating insulin release, while inhibiting glucagon release, in a glucose‐dependent manner. The observation of weight loss has led to exploration of their potential as antiobesity agents, with liraglutide 3.0 mg day−1 approved for weight management in the US on December 23, 2014, and in the EU on March 23, 2015. This review examines the potential nonglycemic effects of GLP‐1 receptor agonists.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to identify preclinical and clinical evidence on nonglycemic effects of GLP‐1 receptor agonists.

Results

GLP‐1 receptors are distributed widely in a number of tissues in humans, and their effects are not limited to the well‐recognized effects on glycemia. Nonglycemic effects include weight loss, which is perhaps the most widely recognized nonglycemic effect. In addition, effects on the cardiovascular, neurologic, and renal systems and on taste perception may occur independently of weight loss.

Conclusions

GLP‐1 receptor agonists may provide other nonglycemic clinical effects besides weight loss. Understanding these effects is important for prescribers in using GLP‐1 receptor agonists for diabetic patients, but also if approved for chronic weight management.
High‐resolution MALDI‐FT‐ICR MS imaging for the analysis of metabolites from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded clinical tissue samples
Authors: Buck Achim , Ly Alice , Balluff Benjamin , Sun Na , Gorzolka Karin , Feuchtinger Annette , Janssen Klaus‐Peter , Kuppen Peter JK , van de Velde Cornelis JH , Weirich Gregor , Erlmeier Franziska , Langer Rupert , Aubele Michaela , Zitzelsberger Horst , Aichler Michaela , Walch Axel
Published: May 2015

We present the first analytical approach to demonstrate the in situ imaging of metabolites from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) human tissue samples. Using high‐resolution matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization Fourier‐transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐FT‐ICR MSI), we conducted a proof‐of‐principle experiment comparing metabolite measurements from FFPE and fresh frozen tissue sections, and found an overlap of 72% amongst 1700 m/z species. In particular, we observed conservation of biomedically relevant information at the metabolite level in FFPE tissues. In biomedical applications, we analysed tissues from 350 different cancer patients and were able to discriminate between normal and tumour tissues, and different tumours from the same organ, and found an independent prognostic factor for patient survival. This study demonstrates the ability to measure metabolites in FFPE tissues using MALDI‐FT‐ICR MSI, which can then be assigned to histology and clinical parameters. Our approach is a major technical, histochemical, and clinicopathological advance that highlights the potential for investigating diseases in archived FFPE tissues. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CBL controls a tyrosine kinase network involving AXL, SYK and LYN in nilotinib‐resistant chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Gioia Romain , Trégoat Claire , Dumas Pierre‐Yves , Lagarde Valérie , Prouzet‐Mauléon Valérie , Desplat Vanessa , Sirvent Audrey , Praloran Vincent , Lippert Eric , Villacreces Arnaud , Leconet Wilhem , Robert Bruno , Vigon Isabelle , Roche Serge , Mahon François‐Xavier , Pasquet Jean‐Max
Published: May 2015

A tyrosine kinase network composed of the TAM receptor AXL and the cytoplasmic kinases LYN and SYK is involved in nilotinib‐resistance of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) cells. Here, we show that the E3‐ubiquitin ligase CBL down‐regulation occurring during prolonged drug treatment plays a critical role in this process. Depletion of CBL in K562 cells increases AXL and LYN protein levels, promoting cell resistance to nilotinib. Conversely, forced expression of CBL in nilotinib‐resistant K562 cells (K562‐rn) dramatically reduces AXL and LYN expression and resensitizes K562‐rn cells to nilotinib. A similar mechanism was found to operate in primary CML CD34+ cells. Mechanistically, the E3‐ligase CBL counteracts AXL/SYK signalling, promoting LYN transcription by controlling AXL protein stability. Surprisingly, the role of AXL in resistance was independent of its ligand GAS6 binding and its TK activity, in accordance with a scaffold activity for this receptor being involved in this cellular process. Collectively, our results demonstrate a pivotal role for CBL in the control of a tyrosine kinase network mediating resistance to nilotinib treatment in CML cells. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional screening identifies MCT4 as a key regulator of breast cancer cell metabolism and survival
Authors: Baenke Franziska , Dubuis Sébastien , Brault Charlene , Weigelt Britta , Dankworth Beatrice , Griffiths Beatrice , Jiang Ming , Mackay Alan , Saunders Becky , Spencer‐Dene Bradley , Ros Susana , Stamp Gordon , Reis‐Filho Jorge S , Howell Michael , Zamboni Nicola , Schulze Almut
Published: May 2015

Metabolic reprogramming in cancer enhances macromolecule biosynthesis and supports cell survival. Oncogenic drivers affect metabolism by altering distinct metabolic processes and render cancer cells sensitive to perturbations of the metabolic network. This study aimed to identify selective metabolic dependencies in breast cancer by investigating 17 breast cancer cells lines representative of the genetic diversity of the disease. Using a functional screen, we demonstrate here that monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4) is an important regulator of breast cancer cell survival. MCT4 supports pH maintenance, lactate secretion and non‐oxidative glucose metabolism in breast cancer cells. Moreover, MCT4 depletion caused an increased dependence of cancer cells on mitochondrial respiration and glutamine metabolism. MCT4 depletion reduced the ability of breast cancer cells to grow in a three‐dimensional (3D) matrix or as multilayered spheroids. Moreover, MCT4 expression is regulated by the PI3K–Akt signalling pathway and highly expressed in HER2‐positive breast cancers. These results suggest that MCT4 is a potential therapeutic target in defined breast cancer subtypes and reveal novel avenues for combination treatment. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tio2‐ or tio2/fe3o4‐containing PVA‐based microgels for controlled photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange
Authors: Xiao Congming , Fang Yanhong , Zhang Guoxiang
Published: May 2015

An inverse emulsion radical reaction was adopted to prepare poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)‐based microgels that contained titanium oxide (TiO2) or TiO2/Fe3O4, and the obtained microgels were applied to catalyze the degradation of methyl orange. First, well‐defined PVA was used to synthesize a PVA‐based macromonomer (PVAM) that contained carbon–carbon double bonds of tunable contents. Then, the composite microgels were prepared via the crosslinking reaction between PVAM and acrylic acid in the presence of TiO2 or TiO2/Fe3O4. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscope observation confirmed that the inorganic nanoparticles were well encapsulated within the microgels. TGA results showed that the loading efficiency of TiO2 was able to be controlled by varying the structure of PVAM. It was found that the microgels can efficiently catalyze the degradation of methyl orange. Moreover, the composite microgels possessed controllable and returnable catalysis ability. In addition, the separation of the composite microgels from aqueous solution could be quite easily accomplished by incorporating magnetic particles. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:132–137, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Inhibitor‐based affinity probes for the investigation of JAK signaling pathways
Authors: Höfener Michael , Pachl Fiona , Kuster Bernhard , Sewald Norbert
Published: May 2015

The Janus Kinase (JAK) signaling pathway plays a key role for many cellular processes and has recently been correlated with neuronal disorders. In order to understand new links of JAK family members with other signaling pathways, chemical proteomics tools with broad kinase coverage are desirable. A probe that shows outstanding kinase selectivity and allows for the enrichment of up to 133 kinases including many mitogen activated kinase (MAPK) members and JAK kinases has been developed. Furthermore, this probe was applied to establish the selectivity profile of the JAK1/2 inhibitor momelotinib that is currently evaluated in clinical phase 3 studies. These results render this probe a valuable tool for the investigation of JAK and JAK related signaling pathways and the selectivity profiling of kinase inhibitors.
Quantitative proteomic analysis of cabernet sauvignon grape cells exposed to thermal stresses reveals alterations in sugar and phenylpropanoid metabolism
Authors: George Iniga S. , Pascovici Dana , Mirzaei Mehdi , Haynes Paul A.
Published: May 2015

Grapes (Vitis vinifera) are a valuable fruit crop and wine production is a major industry. Global warming and expanded range of cultivation will expose grapes to more temperature stresses in future. Our study investigated protein level responses to abiotic stresses, with particular reference to proteomic changes induced by the impact of four different temperature stress regimes, including both hot and cold temperatures, on cultured grape cells. Cabernet Sauvignon cell suspension cultures grown at 26°C were subjected to 14 h of exposure to 34 and 42°C for heat stress, and 18 and 10°C for cold stress. Cells from the five temperatures were harvested in biological triplicates and label‐free quantitative shotgun proteomic analysis was performed. A total of 2042 non‐redundant proteins were identified from the five temperature points. Fifty‐five proteins were only detected in extreme heat stress conditions (42°C) and 53 proteins were only detected at extreme cold stress conditions (10°C). Gene Ontology (GO) annotations of differentially expressed proteins provided insights into the metabolic pathways that are involved in temperature stress in grape cells. Sugar metabolism displayed switching between alternative and classical pathways during temperature stresses. Additionally, nine proteins involved in the phenylpropanoid pathway were greatly increased in abundance at extreme cold stress, and were thus found to be cold‐responsive proteins. All MS data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD000977 (http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD000977).
The Potential of Participedia as a Crowdsourcing Tool for Comparative Analysis of Democratic Innovations
Authors: Smith Graham , Richards Robert C. , Gastil John
Published: May 2015

Participedia (PP; www.participedia.net) is an open global knowledge platform for researchers and practitioners in the field of democratic innovation and public engagement. It represents an experiment with a new and potentially powerful way to conduct social science research: crowdsourcing data on participatory processes from researchers and practitioners from all over the world and making that data freely available for analysis. This article reflects on the potential of PP to realize its long‐term aim of answering the basic research questions: what kinds of participatory processes work best, for what purposes, and under what conditions? Initially the article reviews the data model that informs PP and the types of comparative analysis it might enable. Our analysis draws on the PP data to explore the relationship between aspects of institutional design (including facilitation, forms of interaction, and decision methods) across a range of democratic innovations represented on the platform. The study offers important insights on institutional design, but also on the potential for crowdsourcing data from disparate communities.
Insecticidal efficacy and persistence of a co‐occluded binary mixture of Helicoverpa armigera nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV) variants in protected and field‐grown tomato crops on the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Arrizubieta Maite , Simón Oihane , Torres‐Vila Luis M , Figueiredo Elisabete , Mendiola Javier , Mexia Antonio , Caballero Primitivo , Williams Trevor
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

A binary co‐occluded mixture (HearSP1B:LB6) of Helicoverpa armigera single nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV) variants was previously found to be highly pathogenic under laboratory conditions. The insecticidal efficacy and persistence of this mixture were determined in greenhouse and field‐grown tomato crops in Spain and Portugal.

RESULTS

Concentrations of 109–1011 occlusion bodies (OBs) L−1 of HearSP1B:LB6 resulted in 89–100% mortality of larvae on treated tomato plants in growth chambers. In protected tomato crops, application of 1010 OBs L−1 of HearSP1B:LB6 was as effective as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and spinosad in reducing the percentage of damaged fruits, and resulted in higher larval mortality than the Bt treatment. In open‐field tomato crops, virus treatments were as effective in reducing the percentage of damaged fruit as spinosad, Bt and chlorpyrifos treatments. The persistence of the insecticides on tomato plants was negatively correlated with solar radiation in both field and greenhouse settings. Residual insecticidal activity of OBs on protected tomato crops at 6 days post‐application was 55 and 35% higher than that of Bt and spinosad respectively. On field‐grown tomato, OB persistence was significantly lower than with spinosad or chlorpyrifos.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy and persistence of HearSP1B:LB6 OBs were comparable with those of commercial insecticides in both field and greenhouse tomato crops. Future studies should focus on reducing application rates to determine insecticidal efficacy at lower OB concentrations. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Soil ecotoxicity assessment of glyphosate use under field conditions: microbial activity and community structure of Eubacteria and ammonia‐oxidising bacteria
Authors: Zabaloy María C , Carné Ignacio , Viassolo Rodrigo , Gómez Marisa A , Gomez Elena
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

A plot‐scale experiment was conducted to assess the impact of field application rates of glyphosate on soil microbial communities by taking measurements of microbial activity (in terms of substrate‐induced respiration and enzyme activity) in parallel with culture‐independent approaches to assessing both bacterial abundance and diversity. Two rates of glyphosate, alone or in a mixture with 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, were applied directly onto the soil surface, simulating normal use in chemical fallow in no‐till systems.

RESULTS

No consistent rate‐dependent responses were observed in the microbial activity parameters investigated in the field plots that were exposed to glyphosate. Denaturant gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of the overall bacterial community (Eubacteria) and ammonia‐oxidising bacteria (AOB) revealed no effects of the high rate of glyphosate on the structure of the communities in comparison with the control. No treatment effects were observed on the abundance of Eubacteria shortly after treatment in 2010, while a small but significant difference between the high rate and the control was detected in the first sampling in 2011. The abundance of AOB was relatively low during the study, and treatment effects were undetectable.

CONCLUSIONS

The absence of negative effects on soil microbial communities in this study suggests that glyphosate use at recommended rates poses low risk to the microbiota. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
High critical current densities in bulk MgB2 fabricated using amorphous boron
Authors: Muralidhar Miryala , Kenta Nozaki , Koblischka Michael R. , Murakami Masato
Published: May 2015

We prepared bulk MgB2 from high‐purity commercial powders of Mg metal (99.9% purity) and amorphous B (99% purity) powders using a single‐step solid state reaction at 775 °C for varying sintering duration from 1 to 10 h in pure argon atmosphere. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that all the samples were single phase MgB2. The magnetization measurements confirmed a sharp superconducting transition with Tc,onset at around 38.2–38.8 K. The critical current density (Jc) values for the MgB2 samples produced at 1 h sintering time is the highest one in all processed materials here. Scanning electron microscopy analyses indicated that the sintering time has a crucial influence on the grain size. As a result, the highest Jc value of 270 kA cm−2 at 20 K and self‐field was achieved in the sample produced at 775 °C for 1 h. Our results clearly demonstrate that the optimization of the sintering conditions is essential to improve the bulk MgB2 performance.
Diamond nanowire forest decorated with nickel hydroxide as a pseudocapacitive material for fast charging–discharging
Authors: Gao Fang , Nebel Christoph Erwin
Published: May 2015

Pseudocapacitive materials exhibit high energy storage, but their energy release is slow. In this paper we aim at solving this problem by using diamond‐nickel hydroxide composite wires as a high power supercapacitor material. Diamond nanowires serve as a 3D substrate and current collector. The morphology of the sample was monitored with SEM during the fabrication process. Measured by electrochemical techniques, the material achieved a gravitational capacitance of 1601 F/g (∼80% of the theoretical value). A high power density up to 3 × 105 W/kg was confirmed, which is more than one magnitude higher than state of the art values. The reason for the high rate performance is also determined and discussed in detail, and fast ion diffusion inside the 3D composite is confirmed.
Anomalous effective viscoelastic, thermoelastic, dielectric, and piezoelectric properties of negative‐stiffness composites and their stability
Authors: Wang Yun‐Che , Ko Chih‐Chin , Chang Keng‐Wei
Published: May 2015

Composite materials containing negative‐stiffness inclusions embedded in positive‐stiffness matrix may exhibit unconventional (anomalous) effective coupled‐field properties through interactions of the two phases. Effective coupled‐field properties are calculated with the finite element methods under the quasi‐static assumption. Stability boundaries are determined by applying 10 Hz sinusoidal loading on boundary surfaces, and the system is unstable if its energy becomes divergent for a chosen inclusion Young's modulus ratio (λE) or bulk modulus ratio (λK). Effective viscoelastic properties and their stability are studied for negative λE at 10 Hz, while the Poisson's ratio of the purely elastic inclusion is kept constant. For small inclusion volume fractions, their stability boundary is at λE ∼ –0.3, and extreme large effective damping and viscoelastic modulus are in the unstable regime. Furthermore, in the viscoelastic case, inclusion shapes have no effects on stability. As for the effective coupled‐field properties, all anomalous peaks are in the unstable regime for negative λE or λK, except for an anomalous peak in effective thermal expansion coefficient with electrically insulated inclusions. Insulated inclusions may cause charge accumulation at the inclusion‐matrix interface and boundary surface effects may serve as stabilizing agents to the composite system.
Clinical Efficacy of Andrographolide Sulfonate in the Treatment of Severe Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is Dependent upon Inhibition of Neutrophil Activation
Authors: Wen Tao , Xu Wenjun , Liang Lianchun , Li Junhong , Ding Xiaorong , Chen Xiao , Hu Jianhua , Lv Aiping , Li Xiuhui
Published: May 2015

Andrographolide sulfonate treatment has been shown to improve clinical severe hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) efficacies when combined with conventional therapy. However, the mechanisms for its therapeutic effects remain elusive. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether andrographolide sulfonate exerts its efficacy by acting on neutrophil activation. We obtained serial plasma samples at two time points (before and after 5 days of therapy) from 28 HFMD patients who received conventional therapy and 18 patients who received combination therapy (andrographolide sulfonate plus conventional therapy). Then, we measured plasma myeloperoxidase (MPO), S100A8/A9, histone, and inflammatory cytokine levels. Furthermore, we examined if andrographolide sulfonate had direct effects on neutrophil activation in vitro. We observed that MPO and S100A8/A9 levels were markedly elevated in the HFMD patients before clinical treatment. At 5 days post‐medication, the MPO, S100A8/A9, histone, and interleukin‐6 levels were markedly lower in the combination therapy group compared with the conventional therapy group. In vitro studies showed that andrographolide sulfonate inhibited lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated neutrophil activation, demonstrated by the decreased production of reactive oxygen species and cytokines. These data indicate that neutrophil activation modulation by andrographolide sulfonate may be a critical determinant for its clinical HFMD treatment efficacy. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Influence of Aconitum carmichaelii Debx. on the Pharmacokinetic Characteristics of Main Components in Rheum palmatum L.
Authors: Li Yun‐xia , Gong Xiao‐hong , Li Yan , Zhang Ruo‐qi , Yuan An , Zhao Meng‐jie , Zeng Dai‐wen , Peng Cheng
Published: May 2015

Rhei Radix et Rhizoma was one of the commonly used traditional Chinese medicines, and the compatibility of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma and Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata was the basic herb pair applied in many Chinese traditional prescription. Rhubarb anthraquinones were the main bioactive materials of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma. To elucidate the compatibility of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma and Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata, the pharmacokinetics of rhubarb anthraquinones as the main marker constituents were investigated. In the present study, pharmacokinetic differences of rhubarb anthraquinones were detected after oral administration of extract of Rheum palmatum L. and compatibility with Aconitum carmichaelii Debx. After oral administration, no difference of peak time can be found for anthraquinones between rhubarb group and compatibility group. But Cmax and area under the curve of aloe‐emodin, emodin and chrysophanol in compatibility group were significantly higher than that in rhubarb group. Although the Cmax of rhein in compatibility group was much lower than that in rhubarb group, the area under the curve value was similar in two groups. The clearance and t1/2 of rhubarb anthraquinone were also changed after compatibility. The change of pharmacokinetics characteristics of rhubarb anthraquinone after compatibility may be caused by the drug–drug interaction medicated by chemical reaction and cytochromes P450. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Event‐based global stabilization of linear systems via a saturated linear controller
Authors: Zhang Liangyin , Chen Michael Z. Q.
Published: May 2015

This paper investigates the problem of event‐based linear control of systems subject to input saturation. First, for discrete‐time systems with neutrally stable or double‐integrator dynamics, novel event‐triggered control algorithms with non‐quadratic event‐triggering conditions are proposed to achieve global stabilization. Compared with the quadratic event‐triggering conditions, the non‐quadratic ones can further reduce unnecessary control updates for the input‐saturated systems. Furthermore, for continuous‐time systems with neutrally stable or double‐integrator dynamics, because an inherent lower bound of the inter‐event time does not exist for systems subject to input saturation, novel event‐triggered control algorithms with an appropriately selected minimum inter‐event time are proposed to achieve global stabilization. Finally, numerical examples are provided to illustrate the theoretical results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deterministic Assembly of Flexible Si/Ge Nanoribbons via Edge‐Cutting Transfer and Printing for van der Waals Heterojunctions
Authors: Guo Qinglei , Zhang Miao , Xue Zhongying , Wang Gang , Chen Da , Cao Ronggen , Huang Gaoshan , Mei Yongfeng , Di Zengfeng , Wang Xi
Published: May 2015

As the promising building blocks for flexible electronics and photonics, inorganic semiconductor nanomembranes have attracted considerable attention owing to their excellent mechanical flexibility and electrical/optical properties. To functionalize these building blocks with complex components, transfer and printing methods in a convenient and precise way are urgently demanded. A combined and controllable approach called edge‐cutting transfer method to assemble semiconductor nanoribbons with defined width (down to submicrometer) and length (up to millimeter) is proposed. The transfer efficiency can be comprehended by a classical cantilever model, in which the difference of stress distributions between forth and back edges is investigated using finite element method. In addition, the vertical van der Waals PN (p‐Si/n‐Ge) junction constructed by a two‐round process presents a typical rectifying behavior. The proposed technology may provide a practical, reliable, and cost‐efficient strategy for transfer and printing routines, and thus expediting its potential applications for roll‐to‐roll productions for flexible devices.
Teaching a new conceptual framework of weight and gravitation in middle school
Authors: Stein Hana , Galili Igal , Schur Yaron
Published: May 2015

Empirical studies have reported difficulties, confusion, and lack of understanding among students at all levels of instruction regarding the issue of weight–gravitation–weighing relationships. This study examined the impact of a new conceptual framework of weight, on a small group of 7th‐grade students (N = 14) in a middle school in Israel. This conceptual framework, which defined weight operationally as weighing results, implied a natural distinction between weight and gravitational force, in contrast to the gravitational definition of weight, which identifies these two concepts. The new framework not only better fits modern scientific epistemology but also matches the common intuitive conception of weight as representing the heaviness of objects. This coherence promises innovative teaching leading to easier and more meaningful learning. The applied pedagogical method included a historical excurse and knowledge mediation through a discursive mode of teaching using images of different environments (Thinking Journey). The collected data of students' knowledge were structured in terms of scheme‐facets of knowledge, which allowed qualitative evaluation of knowledge changes due to the instruction. We found that discussion of the lunar environment led students to appreciate the universality of gravitational attraction and to develop operational meaning for the up‐down direction. Considering the environment of a coasting satellite encouraged students to distinguish between the gravitational force causing the orbiting around the Earth, and weight as the force that objects naturally exert on their support. It appeared that falling served as an anchoring concept leading students to the operational definition of weight. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 52: 1234–1268, 2015.
Targeted nanoparticles for image‐guided treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer: clinical significance and technological advances
Authors: Miller‐Kleinhenz Jasmine M. , Bozeman Erica N. , Yang Lily
Published: May 2015

Effective treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) with its aggressive tumor biology, highly heterogeneous tumor cells, and poor prognosis requires an integrated therapeutic approach that addresses critical issues in cancer therapy. Multifunctional nanoparticles with the abilities of targeted drug delivery and noninvasive imaging for monitoring drug delivery and responses to therapy, such as theranostic nanoparticles, hold great promise toward the development of novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of TNBC using a single therapeutic platform. The biological and pathological characteristics of TNBC provide insight into several potential molecular targets for current and future nanoparticle‐based therapeutics. Extensive tumor stroma, highly proliferative cells, and a high rate of drug resistance are all barriers that must be appropriately addressed in order for these nanotherapeutic platforms to be effective. Utilization of the enhanced permeability and retention effect coupled with active targeting of cell surface receptors expressed by TNBC cells, and tumor‐associated endothelial cells, stromal fibroblasts, and macrophages is likely to overcome such barriers to facilitate more effective drug delivery. An in‐depth summary of current studies investigating targeted nanoparticles in preclinical TNBC mouse and human xenograft models is presented. This review aims to outline the current status of nanotherapeutic options for TNBC patients, identification of promising molecular targets, challenges associated with the development of targeted nanotherapeutics, the research done by our group as well as by others, and future perspectives on the nanomedicine field and ways to translate current preclinical studies into the clinic. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2015, 7:797–816. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1343

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
Anxiety at outpatient hysteroscopy
Authors: Gambadauro Pietro , Navaratnarajah Ramesan , Carli Vladimir
Published: May 2015

This review summarises current understanding and research on the association between anxiety and outpatient hysteroscopy. Women undergoing hysteroscopy suffer from significant levels of anxiety, with repercussions on pain perception, success rates and satisfaction. Using validated tools such as the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Index (STAI) or the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) in the outpatient hysteroscopy setting, average state anxiety scores similar or greater than those measured before more invasive procedures under general anaesthesia have been consistently reported. This clearly suggests a significant gap between our clinical viewpoint of what is “minimally invasive” and patients’ expectations. In spite of its potential role of confounder in studies on pain-reduction interventions, we found that patient anxiety was evaluated in only 9 (13 %) out of a sample of 70 randomised controlled trials on outpatient hysteroscopy published since 1992. Factors such as trait anxiety, age, indication and the efficiency of the clinic can be correlated to state anxiety before hysteroscopy, but more robust data are needed. Promising non-pharmacological interventions to reduce anxiety at hysteroscopy include patient education, communication through traditional or multimedia approaches, interaction and support during the procedure and music listening.
Investigation of heat transfer of tube line of staggered tube bank in two-phase flow
Authors: Jakubcionis Mindaugas
Published: May 2015

This article presents the results of experimental investigation of heat transfer process, carried out using the model of heat exchanger. Two-phase statically stable foam flow was used as a heat transfer fluid. Heat exchanger model consisted of staggered tube bank. Experimental results are presented with the focus on influence of tube position in the line of the bank, volumetric void component and velocity of gas component of the foam. The phenomena of liquid draining in cellular foam flow and its influence on heat transfer rate has also been discussed. The experimental results have been generalized by relationship between Nusselt, Reynolds and Prandtl numbers.
Long non‐coding RNA HOTAIR modulates c‐KIT expression through sponging miR‐193a in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Xing Chong-yun , Hu Xiao-qu , Xie Fei-yan , Yu Zhi-jie , Li Hai-ying , Bin-Zhou  , Wu Jian-bo , Tang Li-yuan , Gao Shen-meng
Published: May 2015

HOTAIR is significantly overexpressed in various cancers and facilitates tumor invasion and metastasis. However, whether HOTAIR plays oncogenic roles in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is still unknown. Here, we report that HOTAIR expression was obviously increased in leukemic cell lines and primary AML blasts. Clinically, AML patients with higher HOTAIR predicted worse clinical outcome compared with those with lower HOTAIR. Importantly, HOTAIR knockdown by small hairpin RNA inhibited cell growth, induced apoptosis, and decreased number of colony formation. Finally, HOTAIR modulated c‐KIT expression by competitively binding miR‐193a. Collectively, our data suggest that HOTAIR plays an important oncogenic role in AML and might serve as a marker for AML prognosis and a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
Prognostic value of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in breast cancer
Authors: Chen Jie , Deng Qiwen , Pan Yuqin , He Bangshun , Ying Houqun , Sun Huiling , Liu Xian , Wang Shukui
Published: May 2015

Inflammation is an essential component of pathogenesis and progression of cancer. A high neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is considered as a prognostic indicator for breast cancer. This meta‐analysis was conducted to establish the overall accuracy of the NLR test in the diagnosis of breast cancer. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted by using PubMed, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). Published studies dating up to July 2014 and 4,293 patients were enrolled in the present study. In order to evaluate the association between NLR and overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS), recurrence‐free survival (RFS) or cancer specific survival (CSS), the hazard ratios (HRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted. OS was the primary outcome. The results suggested that increased NLR was a strong predictor for OS with HR of 2.28 (95% CI = 1.08–4.80,Pheterogeneity< 0.001). Stratified analyses indicated that a high NLR appeared to be a negative prognostic marker in Caucasian populations (HR = 4.53, 95% CI = 3.11–6.60,Pheterogeneity= 0.096), multivariate analysis method (HR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.52–2.89,Pheterogeneity= 0.591), and mixed metastasis (HR = 4.53, 95% CI = 3.11–6.60,Pheterogeneity= 0.096). Elevated NLR was associated with a high risk for DFS (HR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.09–1.74,Pheterogeneity= 0.050) and in subgroups of multivariate analysis (HR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.25–2.14,Pheterogeneity= 0.545) and mixed metastasis (HR = 1.99, 95% CI = 1.28–3.09,Pheterogeneity= 0.992). In summary, NLR could be considered as a predictive factor for patients with breast cancer.
Associations of marital violence with different forms of contraception: Cross‐sectional findings from South Asia
Authors: Raj Anita , McDougal Lotus , Reed Elizabeth , Silverman Jay G.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To assess associations between marital violence and type of contraception among women in South Asia.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analyses were conducted using marital violence data collected during the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys from Bangladesh (n = 3665), India (n = 56 357), and Nepal (n = 3037). Data were pooled to assess associations of marital violence (physical or sexual) with modern contraception use (current spacing or sterilization).

Results

Sexual marital violence was associated with both modern spacing contraception (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13–1.49) and sterilization (AOR 0.79; 95% CI, 0.70–0.88). Sexual violence was reported more often by pill users (9.8% vs 5.5% for non‐users) but less often by condom users (4.5% vs 5.8% for non‐users).

Conclusion

Sexual marital violence might increase use of contraception that need not require husband involvement (pill) but decrease use of methods that require his cooperation (condom) or support for mobility, funds, or time (sterilization).
SegWeigh: A mixed‐method approach to segmenting potential contraceptive user groups and meeting Family Planning 2020 goals
Authors: Reichwein Barbara , Wolmarans Liezel , Nantayi Lois , Nassali Faith , Kakinda Allan , Musumba Duncan , Nguyen Thang H. , Baatsen Pam
Published: May 2015

Objective

To evaluate a low‐cost mixed‐method research tool (SegWeigh) that informs awareness raising and family planning interventions for potential contraceptive users.

Methods

A pilot study of SegWeigh was conducted in Uganda and Vietnam between September 3, 2012, and February 21, 2013. User archetypes were produced in four steps by triangulating Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data; a secondary literature review; family planning service provision data; and primary qualitative investigation.

Results

Triangulation of DHS analysis, secondary literature and service data revealed three potential user profiles: Ugandan women wanting to space pregnancies; Ugandan men wanting to limit pregnancies; and unmarried Vietnamese women having infrequent sex. Archetypes were subsequently created of “Kibuuka,” a 52‐year‐old semi‐literate subsistence farmer in rural Uganda, and “Anh,” a 20‐year‐old student in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Conclusion

SegWeigh rapidly produced data‐rich “real life” user profiles that might help to tailor family planning interventions.
Results of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory‐2 among gestational surrogacy candidates
Authors: Klock Susan C. , Covington Sharon N.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To obtain normative data on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory‐2 (MMPI‐2) personality test for gestational surrogate (GS) candidates.

Methods

A retrospective study was undertaken through chart review of all GS candidates assessed at Shady Grove Fertility Center, Rockville, MD, USA, between June 2007 and December 2009. Participants completed the MMPI‐2 test during screening. MMPI‐2 scores, demographic information, and screening outcome were retrieved.

Results

Among 153 included candidates, 132 (86.3%) were accepted to be a GS, 6 (3.9%) were ruled out because of medical reasons, and 15 (9.8%) were ruled out because of psychological reasons. The mean scores on each of the MMPI‐2 scales were within the normal range. A score of more than 65 (the clinical cutoff) was recorded on the L scale for 46 (30.1%) candidates, on the K scale for 61 (39.9%), and on the S scale for 84 (54.9%). Women who were ruled out for psychological reasons had significantly higher mean scores on the validity scales F and L, and on clinical scale 8 than did women who were accepted (P < 0.05 for all).

Conclusion

Most GS candidates are well adjusted and free of psychopathology, but candidates tend to present themselves in an overly positive way.
CCR9‐mediated signaling through β‐catenin and identification of a novel CCR9 antagonist
Authors: Lee Sangjun , Heinrich Eileen L. , Li Lily , Lu Jianming , Choi Audrey H. , Levy Rachel A. , Wagner Jeffrey E. , Yip M.L. Richard , Vaidehi Nagarajan , Kim Joseph
Published: May 2015

Elevated levels of chemokine receptor CCR9 expression in solid tumors may contribute to poor patient prognosis. In this study, we characterized a novel CCR9‐mediated pathway that promotes pancreatic cancer cell invasion and drug resistance, indicating that CCR9 may play a critical role in cancer progression through activation of β‐catenin. We noted that the CCL25/CCR9 axis in pancreatic cancer cells induced the activation of β‐catenin, which enhanced cell proliferation, invasion, and drug resistance. CCR9‐mediated activation of β‐catenin and the resulting downstream effects were effectively inhibited by blockade of the PI3K/AKT pathway, but not by antagonism of Wnt. Importantly, we discovered that CCR9/CCL25 increased the lethal dose of gemcitabine, suggesting decreased efficacy of anti‐cancer drugs with CCR9 signaling. Through in silico computational modeling, we identified candidate CCR9 antagonists and tested their effects on CCR9/β‐catenin regulation of cell signaling and drug sensitivity. When combined with gemcitabine, it resulted in synergistic cytotoxicity. Our results show that CCR9/β‐catenin signaling enhances pancreatic cancer invasiveness and chemoresistance, and may be a highly novel therapeutic target.
Topical Mannitol Reduces Capsaicin‐Induced Pain: Results of a Pilot‐Level, Double‐Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bertrand Helene , Kyriazis Marylene , Reeves K. Dean , Lyftogt John , Rabago David
Published: May 2015

Background

Capsaicin specifically activates, and then gradually exhausts, the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) receptor, a key receptor in neuropathic pain. Activation of the TRPV‐1 receptor is accompanied by burning pain. A natural substance or medication that can reduce the burning pain resulting from capsaicin application may have therapeutic potential in neuropathic pain.

Objective

To assess the pain‐relieving effects of a mannitol‐containing cream in a capsaicin‐based pain model.

Design

Randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind clinical trial.

Setting

Outpatient pain clinic.

Participants

Twenty‐five adults with pain‐free lips.

Methods

Capsaicin .075% cream was applied to both halves of each participant's upper lip, inducing pain via stimulation of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1, capsaicin) receptor, then removed after 5 minutes or when participants reported a burning pain of 8/10, whichever came first. A cream containing mannitol and the same cream without mannitol (control) were then immediately applied, 1 on each side of the lip, in an allocation‐masked manner.

Outcome Measures

Participants self‐recorded a numeric rating scale (NRS, 0‐10) pain score for each side of the lip per minute for 10 minutes. A t‐test was performed to evaluate the pain score change from baseline between each side of the lip at each recording. Area under the curve (AUC) analysis was used to determine the overall difference between groups.

Results

Participants reached a capsaicin‐induced pain level of 7.8 ± 1.0 points in 3.3 ± 1.6 minutes that was equal on both sides of the lip. Both groups reported progressive diminution of pain over the 10‐minute study period. However, participants reported significantly reduced pain scores on the mannitol cream half‐lip compared to control at 3 through 10 minutes (P < .05) and in AUC analysis (P < .001).

Conclusions

Mannitol cream reduced self‐reported pain scores in a capsaicin pain model more rapidly than a control cream, potentially via a TRPV1 receptor effect.
Diabetic Cranio‐Cervico‐Radiculoplexus Neuropathy
Authors: Gupta Gaurav , Massie Rami , Doherty Timothy J. , Bourque P.R. , Radhakrishna Mohan , Finlayson Roderick J. , Besemann Markus , Simantirakis Emmanuel , Dyck P. James Bonham
Published: May 2015

We describe a case of a 53‐year‐old man with type 2 diabetes mellitus in whom cervical‐radiculoplexus neuropathy developed, with concomitant cranial and phrenic nerve involvement, occurring as a stepwise, monophasic course. The patient had a presumed remote history of idiopathic cervical‐radiculoplexus neuropathy.