bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the spatial behavior of the meteorological drivers' effects on extreme ozone
Authors: Russell Brook T. , Cooley Daniel S. , Porter William C. , Heald Colette L.
Published: September 2016

At its most extreme levels, ground‐level ozone is most harmful to human health, and meteorological conditions play a critical role in such episodes. In this work, our aim is to better understand how the primary meteorological drivers' effects on extreme ozone vary over the Southeast and Mid‐Atlantic region of the USA.

We employ a model based on a bivariate extreme value framework that finds the linear combination of a set of meteorological covariates that has the strongest tail dependence with ground‐level ozone. In order to gain knowledge about the spatial behavior of the meteorological drivers, we spatially model the coefficients, which relate the covariates to extreme ozone. Because inference for our extreme value model is not likelihood based, we utilize a two‐stage modeling procedure: first, estimating the coefficients in our extreme value model and their associated uncertainties and then using these to fit a multivariate spatial process.

We analyze data from 160 air quality stations located in the Environmental Protection Agency Regions 3 and 4, producing estimated spatial surfaces via the fitted spatial process and co‐kriging. We find that the relative contribution of the driving meteorological variables to extreme ozone differs between the northern and southern portions of the study region. For instance, we find that air temperature is more important in the northern portion of the region, while low humidity is more influential in the southern portion of the region.
Tissue-specific bioconcentration and biotransformation of cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos in a native fish (Jenynsia multidentata) exposed to these insecticides singly and in mixtures
Authors: Bonansea Rocío Inés , Marino Damián J.G. , Bertrand Lidwina , Wunderlin Daniel A. , Amé María Valeria
Published: September 2016

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the accumulation of cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos when the fish Jenynsia multidentata was exposed to these pesticides singly and in technical and commercial mixtures. Adult female fish were exposed over 96 h to 0.04 μg/L of cypermethrin; 0.4 μg/L of chlorpyrifos; 0.04 μg/L of cypermethrin + 0.4 μg/L of chlorpyrifos in a technical mixture; and 0.04 μg/L of cypermethrin + 0.4 μg/L of chlorpyrifos in a mixture of commercial products. Fish exposed to cypermethrin accumulated this compound only in muscle, probably because of the low biotransformation capacity of this organ and the induction of cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) expression in the liver. The accumulation of chlorpyrifos occurred in fish exposed to the insecticide (intestine > liver > gills) even when these fish had higher gluthatione-S-transferase (GST) activity in gills and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) expression in the liver, compared with the control. Fish exposed to the technical mixture showed cypermethrin accumulation (liver > intestine > gills) with higher levels than those measured in fish after only cypermethrin exposure. Higher expression levels of CYP1A1 in the liver were also observed compared with the Control. Fish exposed to the commercial mixture accumulated both insecticides (cypermethrin: intestine > gills and chlorpyrifos: liver > intestine > gills > muscle). In the organs where accumulation occurred, biotransformation enzymes were inhibited. Consequently, the commercial formulation exposure provoked the highest accumulation of cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos in J. multidentata, possibly associated with the biotransformation system inhibition. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1764–1774. © 2016 SETAC
Real‐time estimation of dynamic functional connectivity networks
Authors: Monti Ricardo Pio , Lorenz Romy , Braga Rodrigo M. , Anagnostopoulos Christoforos , Leech Robert , Montana Giovanni
Published: September 2016

Two novel and exciting avenues of neuroscientific research involve the study of task‐driven dynamic reconfigurations of functional connectivity networks and the study of functional connectivity in real‐time. While the former is a well‐established field within neuroscience and has received considerable attention in recent years, the latter remains in its infancy. To date, the vast majority of real‐time fMRI studies have focused on a single brain region at a time. This is due in part to the many challenges faced when estimating dynamic functional connectivity networks in real‐time. In this work, we propose a novel methodology with which to accurately track changes in time‐varying functional connectivity networks in real‐time. The proposed method is shown to perform competitively when compared to state‐of‐the‐art offline algorithms using both synthetic as well as real‐time fMRI data. The proposed method is applied to motor task data from the Human Connectome Project as well as to data obtained from a visuospatial attention task. We demonstrate that the algorithm is able to accurately estimate task‐related changes in network structure in real‐time.Hum Brain Mapp 38:202–220, 2017. ©2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immediate referral to colposcopy versus cytological surveillance for low‐grade cervical cytological abnormalities in the absence of HPV test: A systematic review and a meta‐analysis of the literature
Authors: Kyrgiou Maria , Kalliala Ilkka , Mitra Anita , Ng Ka Ying Bonnie , Raglan Olivia , Fotopoulou Christina , Martin‐Hirsch Pierre , Paraskevaidis Evangelos , Arbyn Marc
Published: September 2016

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to explore the optimum management strategy for women with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS/borderline) or low‐grade squamous intra‐epithelial lesions (LSIL/mild dyskaryosis) cytological abnormalities at primary screening in the absence of HPV DNA test. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL and included randomised controlled trials comparing immediate colposcopy to cytological surveillance in women with ASCUS/LSIL. The outcomes of interest were occurrence of different histological grades of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and default rates during follow‐up. Pooled risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random‐effect model and with inverse variance weighting. Interstudy heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. Six RCTs were included. Immediate colposcopy significantly increased detection of unimportant abnormalities as opposed to repeat cytology (koilocytosis: 32 vs. 21%, RR: 1.49, 95% CI = 1.17–1.90); CIN1: 21 vs. 8%, RR: 2.58, 95% CI = 1.69–3.94). Although immediate colposcopy detected CIN2, CIN2+, and CIN3+ earlier than cytology, the differences were no longer observed at 24 months (CIN3+: 10.3 vs.11.9%, RR: 1.02, 95% CI = 0.53–1.97), with significant interstudy heterogeneity (p < 0.001, I2 = 93%). Default risk was significantly higher for repeat cytology (6 months: 6.3 vs. 13.3%, RR: 3.85, 95% CI = 1.27–11.63; 12 months: 6.3 vs. 14.8%, RR: 6.39, 95% CI = 1.24–32.95; 24 months: 0.9 vs. 16.1%, RR: 19.1, 95% CI = 9.02–40.4). Detection of CIN2+ for cytological surveillance over two years is similar to that of immediate colposcopy, although patients may default. Colposcopy may be first choice when good compliance is not assured, but may increase detection of insignificant lesions. This emphasizes the need for a reflex triage test to distinguish women who need diagnostic work‐up from those who can return to routine recall.
Tail artifact removal in OCT angiography images of rodent cortex
Authors: Baran Utku , Choi Woo June , Li Yuandong , Wang Ruikang K.
Published: September 2016

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a surging non‐invasive, label‐free, in vivo volumetric imaging method, currently being translated to clinical ophthalmology and becoming popular in neuroscience. Despite its attractiveness, there is an inherent issue of using OCT angiograms for quantitative cerebrovascular studies: The dynamic scattering of moving erythrocytes within pial vasculature creates tail‐like artifacts that shadow the capillary vessels in the deeper layers of cortex. This false flow effect is relatively benign for qualitative visualization purposes, but it might have a significant impact on quantitative interpretation of angiographic results. In this work, we propose a simple image processing method to remove these tail artifacts in depth‐resolved OCTA images using an adaptive enface mask generated with OCT structural images. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method by comparing vessel densities and vessel similarities of depth‐resolved OCT angiograms in a stroke study in a rodent model, in vivo. Thanks to the ability of seeing through the tails of pial vessels, capillary vessels beneath these vessels could be recovered to some extend in the deeper layers of mouse cerebral cortex, leading to a more accurate quantification.

Tail artifact removed enface OCT angiogram of deeper layer in vivo mouse cortex.

magnified image

Tail artifact removed enface OCT angiogram of deeper layer in vivo mouse cortex.
On Belonging: The American Adolescent of Arab Descent
Authors: Khouri Lama Z.
Published: September 2016

Although American families of Arab origin come from 22 countries and from varied backgrounds and cultures, reports suggest that they suffer equally from acculturation stress, stereotyping, discrimination, and the reverberations of the aftermath of September 11 as well as global affairs. However, because children and adolescents from these families, particularly those who are newly arrived immigrants, tend to do well in school, they are rarely targeted by research or policy. This article uses the narratives of 5 middle school age male students from Arab descent who were in a support group that met for 3 years (2004–2007), beginning shortly after President George W. Bush's declaration of the war on the “axis of evil.” I used vignettes from this group to illustrate the stressors this population faces. The final section suggests an option for supporting this population.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Analysis of Subcutaneous Tocilizumab in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis From 2 Randomized, Controlled Trials: SUMMACTA and BREVACTA
Authors: Abdallah Hisham , Hsu Joy C. , Lu Peng , Fettner Scott , Zhang Xiaoping , Douglass Wendy , Bao Min , Rowell Lucy , Burmester Gerd R. , Kivitz Alan
Published: September 2016

Tocilizumab is a humanized anti–interleukin‐6 receptor antibody for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis was performed on the 24‐week double‐blind parts of 2 randomized, controlled trials: SUMMACTA and BREVACTA. SUMMACTA compared subcutaneous tocilizumab 162 mg every week to intravenous tocilizumab 8 mg/kg every 4 weeks, whereas BREVACTA evaluated 162 mg subcutaneous tocilizumab every 2 weeks versus placebo. In addition to noncompartmental analysis, a 2‐compartment population pharmacokinetic model, with first‐order absorption (for subcutaneous) and linear and Michaelis–Menten elimination was used. Mean observed steady‐state predose tocilizumab concentrations in week 24 were 40 and 7.4 μg/mL for subcutaneous every‐week and every‐2‐week dosing, respectively, and 18 μg/mL for intravenous dosing. In the population PK model, body weight was an important covariate affecting clearance and volume of distribution. Mean ± SD population‐predicted predose concentration for patients ≥100 kg was 23.0 ± 13.5 μg/mL for subcutaneous tocilizumab every week and 1.0 ± 1.6 μg/mL for every 2 weeks. Efficacy was lowest with subcutaneous every‐2‐week dosing in patients > 100 kg, reflecting lower exposure. The subcutaneous every‐2‐week regimen is not recommended for these patients. Pharmacodynamic responses were comparable for the every‐week subcutaneous and every‐4‐week intravenous regimens and less pronounced with the every‐2‐week subcutaneous regimen. No trend was observed for increased adverse events with increasing tocilizumab exposure. The results of this analysis are consistent with the noninferiority of efficacy of the every‐week subcutaneous regimen to the every‐4‐week intravenous regimen and the superiority of the every‐2‐week subcutaneous regimen to placebo. These results support the label recommendations for subcutaneous dosing of tocilizumab in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Doing Good by Doing Well? Microfinance, Self‐Regulation and Borrowers' Over‐indebtedness in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Afonso Joana Silva , Morvant‐Roux Solène , Guérin Isabelle , Forcella Davide
Published: September 2016

The Dominican Republic's microfinance sector is considered to be a solid market where over‐indebtedness prevention best practices are widely and successfully implemented. Relying on qualitative data collection tools and analysis, we identify these ‘best practices’ as self‐regulation mechanisms, and we show how they fail to fully fulfil their goals in the Dominican market. While financial exclusion supports the idea of a sizable microcredit market, we argue that the focus on growth and high competition strongly jeopardizes the positive social outcomes of microcredit, and that only a paradigm shift within the sector will really change the present situation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association between three prominent climatic teleconnections and precipitation in Iran using wavelet coherence
Authors: Araghi Alireza , Mousavi‐Baygi Mohammad , Adamowski Jan , Martinez Christopher
Published: September 2016

Large‐scale climatic teleconnections have noticeable effects on meteorological events in different regions of the world. In this study, the linkages between three major climatic indices, Arctic Oscillation (AO), North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and Southern Oscillation Index (SOI), and precipitation in Iran were assessed from 1960 to 2014, at 30 synoptic stations in a time‐frequency space, using wavelet coherence (WCO). The results showed that the SOI is the most effective climatic teleconnection on precipitation in Iran, although the other studied climatic indices have noticeable effects as well. The predominant and effective period of AO on precipitation was equal to or greater than 32 months at most of the stations, while the major effective period of NAO was equal to or greater than 64 months. For the SOI, most parts of the country were affected by a period of less than 64 months, while the predominant period of SOI for the northwestern part of the country was greater than 64 months. A uniform phase difference was not observed between the three studied climatic indices and precipitation in the country; instead the phase differences were usually random. For long‐term periods of SOI, an anti‐phase situation was detected at most of the stations. The study suggested that the WCO is a very powerful and flexible method for studying the relationship between multiple time series in a time–frequency space, and its application in hydrological and meteorological research is expected to increase in the near future.
A Randomized Controlled Study of Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress in Street Children in Mexico City
Authors: Shein‐Szydlo Janet , Sukhodolsky Denis G. , Kon David Szydlo , Tejeda Miguel Marin , Ramirez Esteli , Ruchkin Vladislav
Published: September 2016

The study aimed to evaluate cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) for posttraumatic stress (PTS), depression, anxiety, and anger in street children by a randomized controlled trial of CBT versus a waitlist control. It was conducted in 8 residential facilities for street children in Mexico City, with assessments at baseline, posttreatment, and 3 months later. Children who reported at least moderate posttraumatic stress, and fulfilled the study requirement were enrolled in the study (N = 100, 12–18 years old, 36 boys). There were 51 children randomized to CBT and 49 to the waitlist condition. Randomization was stratified by gender. CBT consisted of 12 individual 1‐hour sessions administered weekly by 2 trained, master's‐level clinicians. Outcome measures included self‐reports of PTS, depression, anxiety, and anger; global improvement was assessed by the independent evaluator. Compared to participants in the waitlist condition participants in CBT showed a significant reduction in all symptoms, with effects sizes of 1.73 to 1.75. At follow up there was attrition (n = 36), and no change from posttreatment scores. The study did find statistically significant improvement in symptoms in the CBT group compared to the waitlist condition; symptoms remained stable at 3 months. The study found that CBT for trauma in a sample of street children provided a reduction of a broad range of mental health symptoms.
Circadian Contrasts in Heart Rate Variability Associated With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms in a Young Adult Cohort
Authors: Rissling Michelle B. , Dennis Paul A. , Watkins Lana L. , Calhoun Patrick S. , Dennis Michelle F. , Beckham Jean C. , Hayano Junichiro , Ulmer Christi S.
Published: September 2016

Prior research has demonstrated that individuals exposed to trauma have shown impaired autonomic function. We sought to determine if heart rate variability (HRV), a marker of impaired autonomic function, differed across periods of wake, rest, and sleep as a function of the level of symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A sample of young adults (N = 209), 95 of whom met full criteria for current PTSD based on the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS; Blake et al., 1995), were evaluated for ≈ 24 hr using actigraphy and electrocardiogram. Actigraphy data were categorized as active, rest, or sleep. Multilevel modeling analyses showed that individuals with high PTSD symptom severity had lower high‐frequency HRV than individuals with low PTSD symptom severity during periods of sleep, t(1083) = 2.20, p = .028, Cohen's d = 0.12. No differences were found during periods of activity, t(1083) = 1.34, p = .499, d = 0.05, or rest, t(1083) = 1.34, p = .180, d = 0.09. Our findings extended the import of prior studies to suggest that those with elevated PTSD symptoms may have decreased parasympathetic control during sleep. Moreover, relative to periods of wake and rest, sleep may represent a state of increased vulnerability for decreased parasympathetic cardiac control. Individuals with elevated PTSD symptoms may benefit from early screening for detection of cardiovascular disease.
The Theoretical and Experimental Studies on Oxidation of Straight Chain Amino Acids in Moderately Concentrated Sulfuric Acid Medium
Authors: Bahrami Homayoon , Jaferian Gholamreza , Davari Mehdi D. , Zahedi Mansour , Moosavi‐Movahedi Ali Akbar
Published: September 2016

The kinetics of the permanganic oxidation process of some straight chain amino acids in moderately concentrated sulfuric acid medium have been investigated using a spectrophotometric technique. Conclusive evidences have proven autocatalytic activity of Mn(II) for these reactions. It is determined that even and odd effects of the number carbon atom in a carbon chain are annihilated when it's the number of carbon atoms is increased more than of three in a noncatalytic oxidation pathway. Thus, rate constants belonging to glycine, l‐α‐amino‐n‐butyric acid, l‐norleucine, and l‐α‐amino‐n‐heptanoic acid satisfy Taft's equation involving the induction factor in the noncatalytic pathway, whereas l‐α‐amino‐n‐heptanoic acid has an odd number of carbon atom in its chain carbon. On the other hand, in the catalytic pathway, rate constants satisfy Taft' equation including inductive and steric factors, when rate constants belonging to amino acids with an even number of carbon atoms are separated from those with an odd number of carbon atoms. The oxidation process of amino acids in the noncatalytic pathway and those with the even number of carbon atoms in the carbon chain in the catalytic pathway speeds up by an increase in the length of chain that is accompanied with an increase in the carbon chain's electron‐donating characteristic. On the other hand, an increase in the length of the carbon chain is accompanied with more steric hindrance, which counteracts its electron‐donating character, thereby decreasing reaction rate in the catalytic pathway. Finally, amino acid–Mn(II) complexes were studied using a density functional theory method. Results obtained show that such a complex is less stable than reactants, namely it is formed in an endothermic reaction. The number and strength of hydrogen bonding belonging to amino acid is more than those of the amino acid–Mn(II) complex. Besides, it has been illustrated that natural bond orbital analysis and molecular orbital calculations satisfy the findings.
Colleagues helping each other to publish in medical sciences: Iranian field specialists' convenience editing strategies
Authors: Zeinolabedini Maryam , Gholami Javad
Published: September 2016

This article reports a study into 60 research articles (RAs) authored by Iranian medical researchers and published in high‐quality international English journals. It investigated how academic professionals in medical sciences implement peer convenience editing (CE) to improve articles and make them suitable for publication. The research identified nine editing interventions that were categorized as micro‐ or macro‐editing strategies. The findings indicated that the most frequently used strategies are micro‐strategies of substitution, addition, and mechanical alteration. The study also found that the abstract received the majority of editorial changes (mostly micro), followed by the introduction and then the discussion sections. The findings may help authors and institutions identify which sections and which types of editorial interventions are most likely to be required to ensure that RAs are optimized for publishing in international journals.
Mentoring as a career development tool: A universal resource or only for the ‘anointed’?
Authors: Thew David
Published: September 2016

Key points

Most employers offer skill‐based training, but formal mentoring programmes are rare.

Training tends to be responsibility‐specific and organization‐centric, with fast‐tracking of stand‐out individuals.

Cross‐organizational mentoring can be more objective and multidisciplinary and support publishers’ needs for innovation.

Mentoring programmes usually focus on early careers, and there is little support for senior publishing professionals.

All professional development requires engagement from all parties – no pull without push!
Early fast‐acting treatment strategy against generalized myasthenia gravis
Authors: Utsugisawa Kimiaki , Nagane Yuriko , Akaishi Tetsuya , Suzuki Yasushi , Imai Tomihiro , Tsuda Emiko , Minami Naoya , Uzawa Akiyuki , Kawaguchi Naoki , Masuda Masayuki , Konno Shingo , Suzuki Hidekazu , Murai Hiroyuki , Aoki Masashi
Published: September 2016

Introduction

In this study we sought to clarify the effects of early fast‐acting treatment (EFT) strategies on the time course for achieving the treatment target in generalized myasthenia gravis (MG).

Methods

This retrospective study of 923 consecutive MG patients analyzed 688 generalized MG patients who had received immunotherapy during the disease course. The time to first achieve minimal manifestations (MM) or better while receiving prednisolone at ≤5 mg/day for ≥6 months (MM‐or‐better‐5mg) up to 120 months after starting immunotherapy was compared between EFT and non‐EFT patients.

Results

Achievement of MM‐or‐better‐5mg was more frequent and earlier in the EFT group (P = 0.0004, Wilcoxon test; P = 0.0001, log‐rank test). Multivariate Cox regression analysis calculated a hazard ratio of 1.98 (P < 0.0001) for utilization of EFT. Dosing regimens of oral steroids in EFT produced no differences in the time course.

Conclusions

EFT strategies are advantageous for early achievement of MM‐or‐better‐5mg. Muscle Nerve 55: 794–801, 2017
Contraction mode and whey protein intake affect the synthesis rate of intramuscular connective tissue
Authors: Holm Lars , Rahbek Stine Klejs , Farup Jean , Vendelbo Mikkel Holm , Vissing Kristian
Published: September 2016

Introduction

In this study we investigated the impact of whey protein hydrolysate and maltodextrin (WPH) intake on intramuscular connective tissue (IMCT) protein fractional synthesis rate (FSR) after maximal shortening and lengthening contractions.

Methods

Twenty young men were randomized to receive either WPH or maltodextrin [carbohydrate (CHO)] immediately after completion of unilateral shortening and lengthening knee extensions. Ring‐13C6‐phenylalanine was infused, and muscle biopsies were obtained. IMCT protein FSR was measured at 1–5, as well as 1–3 and 3–5 hours after contractions and nutrient intake.

Results

During the 1–3‐hour recovery, lengthening contractions resulted in a higher FSR than shortening contractions (P < 0.01), independent of supplementation type and, during the 3–5‐hour recovery, WPH had a higher FSR than CHO (P < 0.05), independent of prior contraction mode.

Conclusions

The later appearance of a stimulating effect of WPH on the IMCT FSR after strenuous muscle contractions lends support to its ability to promote recovery of the muscle connective tissue matrix after exercise. Muscle Nerve 55: 128–130, 2017
Noninvasive mapping of endothelial dysfunction in myocardial ischemia by magnetic resonance imaging using an albumin‐based contrast agent
Authors: Vandoorne Katrien , Vandsburger Moriel H. , Jacobs I. , Han Y. , Dafni Hagit , Nicolay Klaas , Strijkers Gustav J.
Published: September 2016

Noninvasive preclinical methods for the characterization of myocardial vascular function are crucial to an understanding of the dynamics of ischemic cardiac disease. Ischemic heart disease is associated with myocardial endothelial dysfunction, resulting in leakage of plasma albumin into the extravascular space. These features can be harnessed in a novel noninvasive three‐dimensional magnetic resonance imaging method to measure fractional blood volume (fBV) and vascular permeability (permeability–surface area product, PS) using labeled albumin as a blood pool contrast agent. C57BL/6 mice were imaged before and 3 days after myocardial infarction (MI). Following the quantification of endogenous myocardial R1, the dynamics of intravenously injected albumin‐based contrast agent, extravasating from permeable myocardial blood vessels, were tracked on short‐axis magnetic resonance images of the entire heart. This study successfully discriminated between infarcted and remote regions at 3 days post‐infarct, based on a reduced fBV and increased PS in the infarcted region. These findings were confirmed using ex vivo fluorescence imaging and histology. We have demonstrated a novel method to quantify blood volume and permeability in the infarcted myocardium, providing an imaging biomarker for the assessment of endothelial dysfunction. This method has the potential to three‐dimensionally visualize subtle changes in myocardial permeability and to track endothelial function for longitudinal cardiac studies determining pathophysiological processes during infarct healing.
Decreasing food fussiness in children with obesity leads to greater weight loss in family‐based treatment
Authors: Hayes Jacqueline F. , Altman Myra , Kolko Rachel P. , Balantekin Katherine N. , Holland Jodi Cahill , Stein Richard I. , Saelens Brian E. , Welch R. Robinson , Perri Michael G. , Schechtman Kenneth B. , Epstein Leonard H. , Wilfley Denise E.
Published: September 2016

Objective

Food fussiness (FF), or the frequent rejection of both familiar and unfamiliar foods, is common among children and, given its link to poor diet quality, may contribute to the onset and/or maintenance of childhood obesity. This study examined child FF in association with anthropometric variables and diet in children with overweight/obesity participating in family‐based behavioral weight loss treatment (FBT). Change in FF was assessed in relation to FBT outcome, including whether change in diet quality mediated the relation between change in FF and change in child weight.

Methods

Child (N = 170; age = 9.41 ± 1.23) height and weight were measured, and parents completed FF questionnaires and three 24‐h recalls of child diet at baseline and post‐treatment. Healthy Eating Index‐2005 scores were calculated.

Results

At baseline, child FF was related to lower vegetable intake. Average child FF decreased from start to end of FBT. Greater decreases in FF were associated with greater reductions in child body mass index and improved overall diet quality. Overall, diet quality change through FBT mediated the relation between child FF change and child body mass index change.

Conclusions

Children with high FF can benefit from FBT, and addressing FF may be important in childhood obesity treatment to maximize weight outcomes.
In utero gratification behaviour in male fetus
Authors: Rodríguez Fernández Vanesa , López Ramón y Cajal Carlos
Published: September 2016

Fetal masturbation has been described previously once in utero but only as a description of an action. Masturbation is well described in infancy and early childhood when they discover that this practice can give them pleasure. Our letter proves that it could begin in utero as a ‘gratification behaviour’. We have shown this pattern clearly by using a volumetric rendering mode study. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An iTRAQ characterisation of the role of TolC during electron transfer from Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1
Authors: Fowler Gregory J. S. , Pereira‐Medrano Ana G. , Jaffe Stephen , Pasternak Grzegorz , Pham Trong Khoa , Ledezma Pablo , Hall Simon T. E. , Ieropoulos Ioannis A. , Wright Phillip C.
Published: September 2016

Anodophilic bacteria have the ability to generate electricity in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) by extracellular electron transfer to the anode. We investigated the anode‐specific responses of Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1, an exoelectroactive Gammaproteobacterium, using for the first time iTRAQ and 2D‐LC MS/MS driven membrane proteomics to compare protein abundances in S. oneidensis when generating power in MFCs, and growing in a continuous culture. The regulated dataset produced was enriched in membrane proteins. Proteins shown to be more abundant in anaerobic electroactive anodic cells included efflux pump TolC and an uncharacterised tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) protein, whilst the TonB2 system and associated uncharacterised proteins such as TtpC2 and DUF3450 were more abundant in microaerobic planktonic cells. In order to validate the iTRAQ data, the functional role for TolC was examined using a δTolC knockout mutant of S. oneidensis. Possible roles for the uncharacterised proteins were identified using comparative bioinformatics. We demonstrate that employing an insoluble extracellular electron acceptor requires multiple proteins involved in cell surface properties. All MS and processed data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD004090.
Development of solution‐dispersible hyperbranched conjugated polymer nanoparticles for Fe3+ fluorescent detection and their application in logic gate
Authors: Ding Wanchuan , Zhang Hui , Xu Jingkun , Wen Yangping , Zhang Jie , Liu Hongtao , Yao Yuanyuan , Zhang Zhouxiang
Published: September 2016

Solution‐dispersible hyperbranched conjugated polymer nanoparticles (FT‐HBCPNs) consist of an intrinsic crosslinked rigid skeleton structure of both 9,9‐dihexyl‐fluorene and triphenylamine repeating units, and are synthesized via the miniemulsion Suzuki polymerization, and FT‐HBCPNs for highly selective and sensitive Fe3+ fluorescent detection and their application in logic gate at molecular level are successfully developed. FT‐HBCPNs with an average particle size of 10.6 nm can disperse in common organic solvents. FT‐HBCPNs show high selectivity and sensitivity for Fe3+ over other commonly co‐existent metal ions in THF solution with a detection limit of 3.65 × 10−8 mol L−1. Furthermore, homogeneous transparent thin films of FT‐HBCPNs developed by a simple spin‐coating method can be reversibly quenched by Fe3+ with a detection limit of 3.09 × 10−7 mol L−1. Using Fe3+ and EDTA as chemical inputs and the fluorescence intensity signal as outputs, FT‐HBCPNs films can be utilized as a logic gate at molecular level. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3694–3700
Effect of thermal annealing on the luminescence of defective ZnO nanoparticles synthesized by pulsed laser ablation in water
Authors: Camarda P. , Schneider R. , Popescu R. , Vaccaro L. , Messina F. , Buscarino G. , Agnello S. , Gelardi F. M. , Cannas M.
Published: September 2016

This work concerns ZnO nanoparticles (NPs), with sizes of tens of nm, produced by ablation with a pulsed Nd:YAG laser of a Zn plate in H2O. TEM images evidence the formation of nanoparticles with sizes of tens of nm. Moreover, HRTEM images and Raman spectra show that the distance between the crystalline planes and the vibrational modes are consistent with ZnO nanocrystal in wurtzite structure. Their optical properties are characterized by two emission bands both excited above the energy gap (3.4 eV): the first at 3.3 eV is associated with excitons recombination, the second at 2.2 eV is proposed to originate from a singly ionized oxygen vacancy. The green emission is independent of water pH, thus suggesting that point defects lie inside NPs rather than at the surface. Thermal annealing at 300 °C in O2 and He atmosphere, produces a reduction of the A1(LO) Raman mode at 562 cm‐1, which is related to the oxygen vacancies, and a consequent decrease of the defect luminescence, while the excitonic luminescence increases. These results indicate that the ZnO emissions can be controlled by thermal annealing, and are promising in view of optoelectronic applications. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of intrinsic impurities and annealing conditions on dislocation‐related luminescence in self‐ion‐implanted Si
Authors: Korolev Dmitry , Mikhaylov Alexey , Belov Alexey , Tetelbaum David
Published: September 2016

The influence of intrinsic impurities (boron, phosphorus) in the original CZ‐Si on the behavior of the D1 dislocation‐related luminescence line has been investigated in the samples with dislocations introduced by Si+ ion implantation upon the change of annealing ambient. It is established that, for the phosphorus‐doped samples, the D1 line does not occur at the annealing at 1100 °C in inert ambient (N2), but its intensity increases with increasing the oxygen content. For the boron‐doped samples, this line arises in the case of annealing in an inert ambient, herewith the intensity practically does not depend on the composition of the annealing ambient. At the annealing in argon ambient at 900‐1100 °C, the maximal photoluminescence intensity is achieved for annealing at 900 °C. The results are interpreted in terms of interaction between boron and point defects as radiative recombination centers located in dislocations atmospheres. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of Ga deposition rate and Sb flux on morphology of GaSb quantum dots formed on GaAs
Authors: Kawazu Takuya , Noda Takeshi , Sakuma Yoshiki , Sakaki Hiroyuki
Published: September 2016

We investigate the effects of Ga deposition rate (RGa) and Sb flux (PSb) on the morphology of GaSb quantum dots (QDs). GaSb QDs are formed on GaAs at 420 °C by Stranski‐Krastanov (SK) mode under various conditions of RGa (0.13‐0.73 monolayer (ML)/s) and PSb (1.0‐4.2 × 10‐7 Torr). An atomic microscope study shows that the density nQD of GaSb QDs is markedly affected by PSb and RGa; no (or few) QDs are formed at high RGa (∼ 0.73 ML/s) and at low PSb (≤1.2 × 10‐7 Torr). As RGa (PSb) increases, nQD first increases and then decreases. nQD reaches its maximum (∼1 × 1011 cm‐2), when the V‐III ratio is about 3.6. We also analyze the experimental data by using a rate equation model and discuss the dependences of nQD on RGa and PSb.
Are organic compounds good candidates to substitute rare earth materials in fluorescent applications?
Authors: Carbonaro Carlo Maria , Chiriu Daniele , Ricci Pier Carlo
Published: September 2016

The optical properties of some organic compounds in solution or embedded within suitable host matrices are reported and discussed in terms of their performances for possible applications in lighting, photonic or biomedicine. The aim of the paper is to briefly review the presence of rare earth elements in these fields and to enlighten the possibility of their substitution because of global market cost/effectiveness considerations. The easiness of green chemical synthesis and functionalization, the fluorescence tunability over the visible spectrum range of dye molecules and their fluorescence quantum efficiency promote organic compounds as promising good candidate to substitute rare earth materials. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Luminescent point defect formation in 3C‐SiC by ion implantation
Authors: Al Atem Abdul Salam , Ferrier Lydie , Canut Bruno , Chauvin Nicolas , Guillot Gérard , Bluet Jean‐Marie
Published: September 2016

Optically active point defects in SiC are attracting a growing interest thanks to their prospect of emission in the near‐infrared (NIR) spectral region (application in optical fiber communications and for in vivo imaging) and also thanks to the possibility to control optically their spin. Most of the results have been obtained for the hexagonal SiC polytypes. In this work, we focus on the optical properties of point defects in the 3C‐SiC polytype after ion implantation. Different ions, fluences and post‐implantation annealing were performed to optimize the defect formation. Photoluminescence results show that the optimal conditions for intense D1 defect related PL emission in the 600‐850 nm range are high temperature annealing (up to 1200 °C) and a displacement density not exceeding 1020 cm‐3 at the projected range. The creation of Ky5 defect at 1.12 eV has also been demonstrated for lower temperature annealing (800 °C). (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Elliptic curve coding technique application for digital signature
Authors: Yildiz Kazim , Buldu Ali , Saritas Hasan
Published: September 2016

An elliptic curve coding technique application is proposed in this study. It is one of the asymmetric coding techniques and so crucial in today's world. The application codes messages between two different console screens by using elliptical curve coding technique. It is created by using C# with the class of Crypto Next Generation (CNG) which brings into consideration the messaging system as four different security levels. The aim is to use the necessary additional security precautions when using asymmetric techniques. Cryptography techniques are not used for connection, and messaging occurs in security level 1. Security level 2 describes the public channel for the connection between two console screens which is used for sending and receiving key pair; then messaging occurs. Public channel for the connection between two console screens is used for sending and receiving signed key pair and encrypted data; then messaging occurs in security level 3. Security level 4 is the safest one. A private channel for the connection between two console screens is used for sending and receiving a signed key pair and encrypted data, and then messaging occurs. In addition, Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) technique is used in applications which is one of the symmetric cryptographic techniques for encrypting data. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Algebraic techniques on searching linear diffusion layers in block cipher
Authors: Zhang Wenying , Zhang Wenyu
Published: September 2016

Maximum branch number permutation plays an efficacious role in providing resistance against the most well‐known attacks on block ciphers, such as differential cryptanalysis and linear cryptanalysis. In this paper, we propose algebraic techniques in searching permutations with maximal branch number, which can be employed as the linear diffusion layers in block ciphers. We focus on permutations composed of simple operations such as word‐level XORs and rotations. Some necessary conditions are proposed to filter out linear permutations that cannot achieve the maximal branch number. With these conditions, the searching process of maximum permutation on 32‐bit word can be finished in 1 s, contrast to the previous searching method which spent several days on two computers. What is the most important is that it can be generalized to 64‐bit word and show that there is no 8‐byte word permutation, which is XOR of 9 right‐rotations or 11 right‐rotations with maximum branch number. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conversion of Nonproliferating Astrocytes into Neurogenic Neural Stem Cells: Control by FGF2 and Interferon-γ
Authors: Kleiderman Susanne , Gutbier Simon , Ugur Tufekci Kemal , Ortega Felipe , Sá João V. , Teixeira Ana P. , Brito Catarina , Glaab Enrico , Berninger Benedikt , Alves Paula M. , Leist Marcel
Published: September 2016

Conversion of astrocytes to neurons, via de-differentiation to neural stem cells (NSC), may be a new approach to treat neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries. The signaling factors affecting such a cell conversion are poorly understood, and they are hard to identify in complex disease models or conventional cell cultures. To address this question, we developed a serum-free, strictly controlled culture system of pure and homogeneous “astrocytes generated from murine embryonic stem cells (ESC).” These stem cell derived astrocytes (mAGES), as well as standard primary astrocytes resumed proliferation upon addition of FGF. The signaling of FGF receptor tyrosine kinase converted GFAP-positive mAGES to nestin-positive NSC. ERK phosphorylation was necessary, but not sufficient, for cell cycle re-entry, as EGF triggered no de-differentiation. The NSC obtained by de-differentiation of mAGES were similar to those obtained directly by differentiation of ESC, as evidenced by standard phenotyping, and also by transcriptome mapping, metabolic profiling, and by differentiation to neurons or astrocytes. The de-differentiation was negatively affected by inflammatory mediators, and in particular, interferon-γ strongly impaired the formation of NSC from mAGES by a pathway involving phosphorylation of STAT1, but not the generation of nitric oxide. Thus, two antagonistic signaling pathways were identified here that affect fate conversion of astrocytes independent of genetic manipulation. The complex interplay of the respective signaling molecules that promote/inhibit astrocyte de-differentiation may explain why astrocytes do not readily form neural stem cells in most diseases. Increased knowledge of such factors may provide therapeutic opportunities to favor such conversions.
Prediction of stillbirth from maternal factors, fetal biometry and uterine artery Doppler at 19–24 weeks
Authors: Akolekar R. , Tokunaka M. , Ortega N. , Syngelaki A. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the performance of screening for all stillbirths and those due to impaired placentation and unexplained or other causes using a combination of maternal factors, fetal biometry and uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA‐PI) at 19–24 weeks' gestation and to compare this performance with that of screening by UtA‐PI alone.

Methods

This was a prospective screening study of 70 003 singleton pregnancies including 69 735 live births and 268 (0.38%) antepartum stillbirths; 159 (59%) were secondary to impaired placentation and 109 (41%) were due to other or unexplained causes. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to develop a model for prediction of stillbirth based on a combination of maternal factors, fetal biometry and UtA‐PI.

Results

Combined screening predicted 55% of all stillbirths, including 75% of those due to impaired placentation and 23% of those that were unexplained or due to other causes, at a false‐positive rate of 10%. Within the impaired placentation group, the detection rate of stillbirth < 32 weeks' gestation was higher than that of stillbirth ≥ 37 weeks (88% vs 46%; P < 0.001). The performance of screening by the combined test was superior to that of selecting the high‐risk group on the basis of UtA‐PI > 90th percentile for gestational age, which predicted 48% of all stillbirths, 70% of those due to impaired placentation and 15% of those that were unexplained or due to other causes.

Conclusions

Second‐trimester screening by a combination of UtA‐PI with maternal factors and fetal biometry can predict a high proportion of stillbirths and, in particular, those that are due to impaired placentation. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Network dynamics: quantitative analysis of complex behavior in metabolism, organelles, and cells, from experiments to models and back
Authors: Kurz Felix T. , Kembro Jackelyn M. , Flesia Ana G. , Armoundas Antonis A. , Cortassa Sonia , Aon Miguel A. , Lloyd David
Published: September 2016

Advancing from two core traits of biological systems: multilevel network organization and nonlinearity, we review a host of novel and readily available techniques to explore and analyze their complex dynamic behavior within the framework of experimental–computational synergy. In the context of concrete biological examples, analytical methods such as wavelet, power spectra, and metabolomics–fluxomics analyses, are presented, discussed, and their strengths and limitations highlighted. Further shown is how time series from stationary and nonstationary biological variables and signals, such as membrane potential, high‐throughput metabolomics,O2andCO2levels, bird locomotion, at the molecular, (sub)cellular, tissue, and whole organ and animal levels, can reveal important information on the properties of the underlying biological networks. Systems biology‐inspired computational methods start to pave the way for addressing the integrated functional dynamics of metabolic, organelle and organ networks. As our capacity to unravel the control and regulatory properties of these networks and their dynamics under normal or pathological conditions broadens, so is our ability to address endogenous rhythms and clocks to improve health‐span in human aging, and to manage complex metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and cancer.WIREs Syst Biol Med2017, 9:e1352. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1352

This article is categorized under:

Analytical and Computational Methods > Computational Methods

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Metabolomics

Physiology > Physiology of Model Organisms
Data sources for in vivo molecular profiling of human phenotypes
Authors: Cardozo Timothy , Gupta Priyanka , Ni Eric , Young Lauren M. , Tivon Doreen , Felsovalyi Klara
Published: September 2016

Molecular profiling of human diseases has been approached at the genetic (DNA), expression (RNA), and proteomic (protein) levels. An important goal of these efforts is to map observed molecular patterns to specific, mechanistic organic entities, such as loci in the genome, individual RNA molecules or defined proteins or protein assemblies. Importantly, such maps have been historically approached in the more intuitive context of a theoretical individual cell, but diseases are better described in reality using an in vivo framework, namely a library of several tissue‐specific maps. In this article, we review the existing data atlases that can be used for this purpose and identify critical gaps that could move the field forward from cellular to in vivo dimensions. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2016, 8:472–484. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1354

This article is categorized under:

Biological Mechanisms > Chemical Biology

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Genetic/Genomic Methods

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Proteomics Methods