bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants and prognostic implications of the negative diastolic pulmonary pressure gradient in patients with pulmonary hypertension due to left heart disease
Authors: Nagy Anikó Ilona , Venkateshvaran Ashwin , Merkely Béla , Lund Lars H. , Manouras Aristomenis
Published: October 2016

Aims

The diastolic pulmonary pressure gradient (DPG) has recently been introduced as a specific marker of combined pre‐capillary pulmonary hypertension (Cpc‐PH) in left heart disease (LHD). However, its diagnostic and prognostic superiority compared with traditional haemodynamic indices has been challenged lately. Current recommendations explicitly denote that in the normal heart, DPG values are greater than zero, with DPG ≥7 mmHg indicating Cpc‐PH. However, clinicians are perplexed by the frequent observation of DPG <0 mmHg (DPGNEG), as its physiological explanation and clinical impact are unclear to date. We hypothesized that large V‐waves in the pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) curve yielding asymmetric pressure transmission might account for DPGNEG and undertook this study to clarify the physiological and prognostic implications of DPGNEG.

Methods and results

Right heart catheterization and echocardiography were performed in 316 patients with LHD due to primary myocardial dysfunction or valvular disease. A total of 256 patients had PH‐LHD, of whom 48% demonstrated DPGNEG. The V‐wave amplitude inversely correlated with DPG (r = −0.45, P < 0.001) in patients with low pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), but not in those with elevated PVR (P > 0.05). Patients with large V‐waves had negative and lower DPG than those without augmented V‐waves (P < 0.001) despite similar PVR (P >0.05). Positive, but normal DPG (0–6 mmHg) carried a worse 2‐year prognosis for death and/or heart transplantation than DPGNEG (hazard ratio 2.97; P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our results advocate against DPGNEG constituting a measurement error. We propose that DPGNEG can partially be ascribed to large V‐waves and carries a better prognosis than DPG within the normal positive range.
Cytotoxic Effects of Co1–xMnxFe2O4 Ferrite Nanoparticles Synthesized under Non‐Hydrolytic Conditions (Bradley's Reaction) – In Vitro
Authors: Zachanowicz Emilia , Zięcina Aleksander , Mikołajczyk Paulina A. , Rogacki Krzysztof , Małecka Małgorzata , Marycz Krzysztof , Marędziak Monika , Poźniak Błazej , Nowakowska Marta , Tikhomirov Marta , Miller Julia , Wiglusz Rafał J. , Pązik Robert
Published: October 2016

Co1–xMnxFe2O4 ferrite nanoparticles have been synthesized by employing a microwave‐stimulated technique under non‐hydrolytic conditions. Structural, chemical, and morphological characterizations were carried out by XRD, SEM‐EDS, and TEM techniques. The stability of the nanoparticles and their tendency to form agglomerates were investigated by dynamic light scattering, exploiting the effect of different biological environments and protein stabilization. It was shown that bovine serum albumin adsorption was dependent upon the concentration and chemical composition of the nanaoparticle, showing higher affinities with increasing Co2+ content. The cytotoxicities of the nonsurface‐blocked Co1–xMnxFe2O4 nanoparticles were assessed for three cell lines: phagocytic murine macrophage (J774.E), cancer fibroblast human osteosarcoma (HTB), and mesenchymal stem cells derived from human adipose tissue (ASCs). The results indicate that the cytotoxic response strongly depends on the particle concentration as well as the type of cell line.
Platinum(II) Complexes of Curcumin Showing Photocytotoxicity in Visible Light
Authors: Mitra Koushambi , Gautam Srishti , Kondaiah Paturu , Chakravarty Akhil R.
Published: October 2016

Three platinum(II) complexes of curcumin, [Pt(NH3)2(cur)](NO3) (1), [Pt(en)(cur)](NO3) (2) and [Pt(dach)(cur)](NO3) (3), where Hcur is curcumin, en is ethylenediamine and dach is 1R,2R‐(–)‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane, were synthesized, characterized and their photocytotoxic properties were explored. The acetylacetone (Hacac) analogue of 1, [Pt(NH3)2(acac)]NO3 (4), was prepared to investigate the role of photoactive curcumin. The crystal structure of [Pt(NH3)2(acac)]CF3SO3 (4a) revealed square‐planar geometry of the platinum(II) centre. Complexes 1–3 displayed an intense absorption band at 450 nm (ε = 22500 m–1 cm–1). The curcumin in metal‐bound form showed improved stability in 10 % DMSO/buffer solution at 37 °C. The complexes released curcumin upon irradiation with visible light (400–700 nm) as evident from the increment in emission intensity. The complexes formed Pt–DNA covalent adducts when treated with calf thymus (ct)‐DNA and exposed to light. The platinum–curcumin conjugates demonstrated photocytotoxicity in cancer cells giving IC50 values of 15–45 µm (400–700 nm, 10 J cm–2) with no apparent activity in the dark (IC50 > 200 µm). Cytoplasmic localization and reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐mediated apoptotic cell death in visible light was observed for the curcumin complexes.
Comparison of the oxidative stability of cold‐pressed rapeseed oil using Pressure Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Rancimat methods
Authors: Symoniuk Edyta , Ratusz Katarzyna , Krygier Krzysztof
Published: October 2016

Oxidative stability of cold‐pressed rapeseed oil was determined using two accelerated methods—Pressure Differential Scanning Calorimetry (PDSC) and Rancimat. Tests were carried out at six different temperatures (90–140°C), and the induction time (PDSC τmax, Rancimat τon) was a result. Based on the induction times, the Arrhenius equation and the activated complex theory, frequency factors (Z), constant reaction rate (k) for all temperatures, activation energies (Ea), Q10 numbers, activation enthalpies (ΔH‡), and activation entropies (ΔS‡) for cold‐pressed rapeseed oils oxidative stability were calculated. The activation energy values of rapeseed oil oxidation in PDSC and Rancimat method ranged from 86.71 to 90.54 kJ mol−1 and from 75.73 to 77.64 kJ mol−1, respectively. The Q10, ΔH‡, and ΔS‡ values for analyzed rapeseed oil were between 2.00 and 2.07, 83.48 and 87.31 kJ mol−1, −61.30 and −51.40 J molK−1 calculated for PDSC measurements, and from 1.84 to 1.86, 72.50 to 74.41 kJ mol−1, −66.30 to −60.84 J molK−1 for Rancimat measurements, respectively.

Practical applications: This research present the differences in the oxidative stability of cold‐pressed rapeseed oil using PDSC and Rancimat method. The results of the PDSC test may be recommended as an appropriate objective method for assessing the oxidative stability of cold‐pressed rapeseed oil. Also, results of kinetic oxidation parameters may be helpful to predicting the oil oxidative stability at different temperatures of oxidation process.

The study evaluate the oxidative stability of cold‐pressed rapeseed oils using Pressure Differential Scanning Calorimetry (PDSC) and Randimat method. The research shows a correlation (r = 0.9975) between two accelerated methods (PDSC and Rancimat) of assessing lipid oxidative stability.
Label‐free Electrochemical Sensor for Ex‐vivo Monitoring of Alzheimer's Disease Biomarker
Authors: El‐Said Waleed A. , Abd El‐Hameed Kawthar , Abo El‐Maali Nagwa , Sayyed Hayam G.
Published: October 2016

The beta‐amyloid (Aβ) peptide was used as an important biomarker for Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnosis. The development of an accurate, selective, rapid, and highly sensitive technique for detecting of Aβ level is an important issue in biology, and medicine to assess human health risks. Here, gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) with different size were electrochemically deposited onto the indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate in the presence of different molecular weights of surfactants. The modified substrates were used as a high sensitive electrochemical sensor of in‐vitro as well as ex‐vivo monitoring of Aβ based on cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry techniques. Our findings revealed that the modification of ITO electrode with Au NPs could enhance its sensor performance with high sensitivity for low concentration levels of Aβ over a wide linear range with a detection limit of about 20.7 ng/g, which is less than the concentration of insoluble Aβ40 (105.4±40.2 μg/g) in brain of AD induced. In addition, Au NPs/ITO modified electrodes have demonstrated ability to monitor Aβ in the brain extracted samples without any potential interference with other components. Raman spectroscopy has been used to confirm the presence of Aβ in the AD‐induced samples. Thus, it is applicable for analyzing ex‐vivo samples.
Copy number gain of 11q13.3 genes associates with pathological stage in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Pattle Samuel B. , Utjesanovic Natasa , Togo Athena , Wells Lucy , Conn Brendan , Monaghan Hannah , Junor Elizabeth , Johannessen Ingolfur , Cuschieri Kate , Talbot Simon
Published: October 2016

Squamous cell carcinomas of the hypopharynx (HPSCC) and oropharynx (OPSCC) have markedly different patient outcomes. Differences in HPV prevalence between these two patient groups may account for some of this difference, but other molecular markers of prognosis or pathological phenotype have not been established. Copy number gain of oncogenes is a well‐established molecular change contributing to HNSCC development. Quantitative PCR was used to explore copy number gains of specific genes (3q—PIK3CA, TP63; 11q13.3—CCND1, ANO1) in tumor DNA recovered from HPSCC (n = 48) and OPSCC (n = 52) patients. Associations between copy number gain, patient demographics, HPV/p16INK4a status and pathological stage were examined. HPV/p16 prevalence in HPSCC and OPSCC groups was 2.1% and 46.0%, respectively. HPSCCs had frequent gains of CCND1 (56.3%) and ANO1 (56.3%) but few gains of PIK3CA (6.3%). By contrast, OPSCCs had significantly fewer CCND1 (23.1%) and ANO1 (17.3%) gains, and significantly more PIK3CA (26.9%) gains. A mutually exclusive relationship between HPV/p16 and 11q13.3 gains was observed in OPSCCs, while PIK3CA and TP63 gains were similar across HPV‐associated and smoking/alcohol‐associated patients. ANO1 gain was significantly linked to tumor pathology in HPSCC, associating with nodal metastasis and smaller and less invasive tumors at presentation (P = 0.010). Our results provide a convincing link between a specific molecular change and disease phenotype that appears unique to our HPSCC population, supporting a model of 11q13.3 in promoting metastatic disease progression in HNSCC, and suggest a role for ANO1 as a molecular marker of metastatic disease. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Array‐CGH predicts prognosis in plasma cell post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Sarkozy Clémentine , Kaltenbach Sophie , Faurie Pierre , Canioni Danielle , Berger Françoise , Traverse‐Glehen Alexandra , Ghesquieres Hervé , Salles Gilles , Bachy Emmanuel , Alyanakian Marie‐Alexandra , Hermine Olivier , Neven Bénédicte , Macintyre Elizabeth , Romana Serge , Molina Thierry Jo , Suarez Felipe , Asnafi Vahid , Bruneau Julie
Published: October 2016

Plasma‐cell post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PC‐PTLD) is a rare monomorphic PTLD entity divided into plasma cell myeloma (PCM) and plasmacytoma‐like lesion (PLL) PTLD. To date, there are no exhaustive published cytogenetic data on PC‐PTLD. We report array‐based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) of 10 cases of PCM and PLL‐PTLD. Patients had received kidney (n = 6), heart (n = 2), lung (n = 1) or bone marrow (n = 1) transplantation. There were six men and median age at time of PTLD was 56.5 years (3–74). We identified two different cytological features, plasmacytic and plasmablastic, among six PLL and three PCM PTLD. Eight cases were associated with EBV. First line treatment was heterogeneous: rituximab alone (n = 5), CHOP‐like (n = 3) and multiple myeloma‐like (n = 1). One patient died before any treatment. After a median follow‐up of 19.5 months (0–150), five patients died (four from PTLD) and five were alive without evidence of disease. By aCGH, 5/10 demonstrated a complex profile. The most frequent abnormalities were +7q (5/10), +16q (5/10), +17q (5/10), +17p (4/10), +5q (4/10), t7 (4/10), t9 (3/10), del1p (3/10). No del17p13 (TP53) were observed. Del1p32.3 (CDKN2C) was observed in 2 cases. On univariate prognostic analysis, a complex aCGH was associated with a shorter OS. Thus, cytogenetic abnormalities seem to be closely related to those reported in multiple myeloma or diffuse large B cell lymphoma. Complex aCGH constitutes an unfavorable prognostic marker and aCGH should be integrated in the evaluation of patients with PLL/PCM‐PTLD. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genomic landscape of retinoblastoma in Rb−/−p130−/− mice resembles human retinoblastoma
Authors: Kooi Irsan E. , van Mil Saskia E. , MacPherson David , Mol Berber M. , Moll Annette C. , Meijers‐Heijboer Hanne , Kaspers Gertjan J. L. , Cloos Jacqueline , te Riele Hein , Dorsman Josephine C.
Published: October 2016

Several murine retinoblastoma models have been generated by deleting the genes encoding for retinoblastoma susceptibility protein pRb and one of its family members p107 or p130. In Rb−/−p107−/− retinoblastomas, somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) like Mdm2 amplification or Cdkn2a deletion targeting the p53‐pathway occur, which is uncommon for human retinoblastoma. In our study, we determined SCNAs in retinoblastomas developing in Rb−/−p130−/− mice and compared this to murine Rb−/−p107−/− tumors and human tumors. Chimeric mice were made by injection of 129/Ola‐derived Rb−/−p130−/− embryonic stem cells into wild type C57BL/6 blastocysts. SCNAs of retinoblastoma samples were determined by low‐coverage (∼0.5×) whole genome sequencing. In Rb−/−p130−/− tumors, SCNAs included gain of chromosomes 1 (3/23 tumors), 8 (1/23 tumors), 10 (1/23 tumors), 11 (2/23 tumors), and 12 (4/23 tumors), which could be mapped to frequently altered chromosomes in human retinoblastomas. While the altered chromosomes in Rb−/−p130−/− tumors were similar to those in Rb−/−p107−/− tumors, the alteration frequencies were much lower in Rb−/−p130−/− tumors. Most of the Rb−/−p130−/− tumors (16/23 tumors, 70%) were devoid of SCNAs, in strong contrast to Rb−/−p107−/− tumors, which were never (0/15 tumors) SCNA‐devoid. Similarly, to human retinoblastoma, increased age at diagnosis significantly correlated with increased SCNA frequencies. Additionally, focal loss of Cdh11 was observed in one Rb−/−p130−/− tumor, which enforces studies in human retinoblastoma that identified CDH11 as a retinoblastoma suppressor. Moreover, based on a comparison of genes altered in human and murine retinoblastoma, we suggest exploring the role of HMGA1 and SRSF3 in retinoblastoma development. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long‐Term Interactions between the Roman City of Ostia and Its Paleomeander, Tiber Delta, Italy
Authors: Salomon Ferréol , Goiran Jean‐Philippe , Pannuzi Simona , Djerbi Hatem , Rosa Carlo
Published: October 2016

This study examines the long‐term interactions between the well‐known Roman city of Ostia and a river meander. Located at the mouth of the Tiber river, Ostia was a major harbor city that connected Rome to the Mediterranean Sea. Based on aerial photography and borehole analysis, the paleodynamics of the Fiume Morto's paleomeander are understood to be linked to the urban evolution of the city of Ostia. Four periods of evolution have been identified as a result of this interdisciplinary work: (1) the foundation of Ostia's urban center, in the 4th to 3rd century BC, occurred when the meander already existed; (2) between the 4th century BC and the 3rd century AD, human/environmental interactions contributed to the compound growth of the meander that possibly eroded an important Roman road linking Ostia to Rome; (3) from the Imperial period until the meander was cut off in AD 1557–1562, the constricted meander channel at the apex led to the stability of the downstream river channel; (4) the cutoff of the paleomeander was completed in 1562, leading to the filling of the paleochannel. These successive phases of channel evolution mark changing fluvial risks from the Roman period to today.
Two Coupled Forced‐Convection Boundary Layers of Counter‐Flow
Authors: El‐sayed Mosaad Mohamed
Published: October 2016

In this study, the conjugate heat transfer problem of two forced‐convection boundary layers of counter‐laminar flow on plate sides is analyzed by employing the integral method. The analysis is conducted in a dimensionless way to generalize the solution. The dimensionless parameters governing the thermal coupling between the two convection layers are revealed from the analysis. These parameters give a measure of the relative importance of interactive heat transfer modes. Mean Nusselt number results are obtained for a wide range of the governing parameters.
Nacre, a natural, multi‐use, and timely biomaterial for bone graft substitution
Authors: Zhang Ganggang , Brion Alice , Willemin Anne‐Sophie , Piet Marie‐Hélène , Moby Vanessa , Bianchi Arnaud , Mainard Didier , Galois Laurent , Gillet Pierre , Rousseau Marthe
Published: October 2016

During the past two decades, with a huge and rapidly increasing clinical need for bone regeneration and repair, bone substitutes are more and more seen as a potential solution. Major innovation efforts are being made to develop such substitutes, some having advanced even to clinical practice. It is now time to turn to natural biomaterials. Nacre, or mother‐of‐pearl, is an organic matrix‐calcium carbonate coupled shell structure produced by molluscs. In vivo and in vitro studies have revealed that nacre is osteoinductive, osteoconductive, biocompatible, and biodegradable. With many other outstanding qualities, nacre represents a natural and multi‐use biomaterial as a bone graft substitute. This review aims at summarising the current needs in orthopaedic clinics and the challenges for the development of bone substitutes; most of all, we systematically review the physiological characteristics and biological evidence of nacre's effects centred on osteogenesis, and finally we put forward the potential use of nacre as a bone graft substitute. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 662–671, 2017.
One Year of Abaloparatide, a Selective Activator of the PTH1 Receptor, Increased Bone Formation and Bone Mass in Osteopenic Ovariectomized Rats Without Increasing Bone Resorption
Authors: Varela Aurore , Chouinard Luc , Lesage Elisabeth , Smith Susan Y , Hattersley Gary
Published: October 2016

Abaloparatide is a novel 34-amino acid peptide selected to be a potent and selective activator of the parathyroid hormone receptor (PTH1R) signaling pathway with 41% homology to PTH(1-34) and 76% homology to PTHrP(1-34). A 12-month treatment study was conducted in osteopenic ovariectomized (OVX) rats to characterize the mechanisms by which abaloparatide increases bone mass. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to OVX or sham surgery at age 6 months and left untreated for 3 months to allow OVX-induced bone loss. Ten OVX rats were euthanized after this bone depletion period, and the remaining OVX rats received daily subcutaneous injections of vehicle (n = 18) or abaloparatide at 1, 5, or 25 μg/kg/d (n = 18/dose level) for 12 months. Sham controls (n = 18) received vehicle daily. Bone densitometry and biochemical markers of bone formation and resorption were assessed longitudinally, and L3 vertebra and tibia were collected at necropsy for histomorphometry. Abaloparatide increased biochemical bone formation markers without increasing bone resorption markers or causing hypercalcemia. Abaloparatide increased histomorphometric indices of bone formation on trabecular, endocortical, and periosteal surfaces without increasing osteoclasts or eroded surfaces. Abaloparatide induced substantial increases in trabecular bone volume and density and improvements in trabecular microarchitecture. Abaloparatide stimulated periosteal expansion and endocortical bone apposition at the tibial diaphysis, leading to marked increases in cortical bone volume and density. Whole-body bone mineral density (BMD) remained stable in OVX-Vehicle controls while increasing 25% after 12 months of abaloparatide (25 μg/kg). Histomorphometry and biomarker data suggest that gains in cortical and trabecular bone mass were attributable to selective anabolic effects of abaloparatide, without evidence for stimulated bone resorption. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
BMP8B Is a Tumor Suppressor Gene Regulated by Histone Acetylation in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wisnieski Fernanda , Leal Mariana Ferreira , Calcagno Danielle Queiroz , Santos Leonardo Caires , Gigek Carolina Oliveira , Chen Elizabeth Suchi , Artigiani Ricardo , Demachki Sâmia , Assumpção Paulo Pimentel , Lourenço Laércio Gomes , Burbano Rommel Rodríguez , Smith Marília Cardoso
Published: October 2016

Different from genetic alterations, the reversible nature of epigenetic modifications provides an interesting opportunity for the development of clinically relevant therapeutics in different tumors. In this study, we aimed to screen and validate candidate genes regulated by the epigenetic marker associated with transcriptional activation, histone acetylation, in gastric cancer (GC). We first compared gene expression profile of trichostatin A‐treated and control GC cell lines using microarray assay. Among the 55 differentially expressed genes identified in this analysis, we chose the up‐regulated genes BMP8B and BAMBI for further analyses, that included mRNA and histone acetylation quantification in paired GC and nontumor tissue samples. BMP8B expression was reduced in GC compared to nontumor samples (P < 0.01). In addition, reduced BMP8B expression was associated with poorly differentiated GC (P = 0.02). No differences or histopathological associations were identified concerning BAMBI expression. Furthermore, acetylated H3K9 and H4K16 levels at BMP8B were increased in GC compared to nontumors (P < 0.05). However, reduced levels of acetylated H3K9 and H4K16 were associated with poorly differentiated GC (P < 0.05). Reduced levels of acetylated H3K9 was also associated with diffuse‐type histological GC (P < 0.05). Notably, reduced BMP8B mRNA and acetylated H4K16 levels were positively correlated in poorly differentiated GC (P < 0.05). Our study demonstrated that BMP8B seems to be a tumor suppressor gene regulated by H4K16 acetylation in poorly differentiated GC. Therefore, BMP8B may be a potential target for TSA‐based therapies in this GC sample subset. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 869–877, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Grape yield and quality responses to simulated year 2100 expected climatic conditions under different soil textures
Authors: Leibar Urtzi , Pascual Inmaculada , Morales Fermín , Aizpurua Ana , Unamunzaga Olatz
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

The influence of global warming on grape quality is a great concern among grapegrowers and enologists. The effects of simulated year 2100 expected CO2, temperature and relative humidity (RH) conditions (FCC; 700 µmol CO2 mol−1 air, 28/18 °C day/night and 33/53% RH, day/night) versus the current situation (Curr; 390 µmol CO2 mol−1 air, 24/14 °C and 45/65% RH); well‐irrigated versus expected future water deficit and three soils with different clay contents (41, 19 and 8%) on yield and berry quality of grapevine cv. Tempranillo were evaluated.

RESULTS

FCC shortened the time between fruit set and veraison and between fruit set and maturity by up to 7 and 10 days, respectively. This faster maturity led to higher must pH and tonality and reduced malic and tartaric acid concentrations, total anthocyanin concentration and colour intensity. Water deficit delayed ripeness for up to 9 days and reduced vegetative growth and malic acid concentration of grapes. However, this malic acid reduction did not occur with the clayey soils. These soils induced the lowest root fresh weight and berries with lower total anthocyanin concentration.

CONCLUSION

Among the adaptation techniques to cope with the described effects on fruit composition, soil selection should be considered with attention in addition to irrigation practices. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of nursing or mentoring by adult cows on physical activity, performance and meat quality of fattening beef calves kept on alpine pastures
Authors: Gangnat Isabelle DM , Dufey Pierre‐Alain , Silacci Paolo , Messadene‐Chelali Jessika , Kreuzer Michael , Berard Joel
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Compared with weaned calves, nursed calves benefit from access to milk as nutrient‐dense feed and mentoring by their dams. Both may be decisive for growth under difficult conditions such as grazing on alpine pastures, where experience could play an essential role. These factors were investigated separately by comparing nursed calves with calves weaned at 3 months of age and grazing with or without a mentor cow (n = 8 calves).

RESULTS

Weaned calves with mentor cows spent less time lying and walked more than nursed calves. Irrespective of whether they had a mentor cow or not, the weaned calves grew slower than the nursed calves (357, 428 and 1324 g day−1 respectively). This also adversely affected slaughter weight, dressing percentage, conformation and fat cover at slaughter. In general, mentoring had no effect. Meat quality did not differ whether weaned calves were mentored or not. Nursed calves were superior in intramuscular fat content, tenderness and water‐holding capacity.

CONCLUSION

The availability of milk appeared to be much more important to the calves under demanding grazing conditions than did mentoring. The differences in growth rate were accompanied by unexpectedly large differences in meat quality, showing that early weaning was not suitable for this system.© 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Retention of nucleic acids in ion‐pair reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography depends not only on base composition but also on base sequence
Authors: Qiao Jun‐qin , Liang Chao , Wei Lan‐chun , Cao Zhao‐ming , Lian Hong‐zhen
Published: October 2016

The study on nucleic acid retention in ion‐pair reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography mainly focuses on size‐dependence, however, other factors influencing retention behaviors have not been comprehensively clarified up to date. In this present work, the retention behaviors of oligonucleotides and double‐stranded DNAs were investigated on silica‐based C18 stationary phase by ion‐pair reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography. It is found that the retention of oligonucleotides was influenced by base composition and base sequence as well as size, and oligonucleotides prone to self‐dimerization have weaker retention than those not prone to self‐dimerization but with the same base composition. However, homo‐oligonucleotides are suitable for the size‐dependent separation as a special case of oligonucleotides. For double‐stranded DNAs, the retention is also influenced by base composition and base sequence, as well as size. This may be attributed to the interaction of exposed bases in major or minor grooves with the hydrophobic alky chains of stationary phase. In addition, no specific influence of guanine and cytosine content was confirmed on retention of double‐stranded DNAs. Notably, the space effect resulted from the stereostructure of nucleic acids also influences the retention behavior in ion‐pair reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography.
First separation of four aromatic acids and two analogues with similar structures and polarities from Clematis akebioides by high‐speed counter‐current chromatography
Authors: Gong Chengcheng , Chen Tao , Chen Huifeng , Zhang Shanshan , Wang Xinzhu , Wang Weiqing , Sun Jing , Li Yulin , Liao Zhixin
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we report an efficient method by high‐speed counter‐current chromatography for the first separation of four aromatic acids and two analogs with similar structures and polarities from Clematis akebioides. First, the ethyl acetate extract was treated by silica gel column chromatography to enrich the target compounds. And then the fraction with target compounds were purified by high‐speed counter‐counter chromatography using a two‐phase solvent system consisting of chloroform/acetonitrile/water (10:6:4, v/v). The results showed high‐speed counter‐current chromatography could be a powerful technology for the separation of compounds with similar structures and polarities. Besides, it was found acetonitrile could be a good methanol substitute when a chloroform/methanol/water system could not provide a good separation factor. This study provides a reference for the separation of compounds from Clematis akebioides.
A fluorescence‐activated cell sorting subsystem for the Imaging FlowCytobot
Authors: Lambert Bennett S. , Olson Robert J. , Sosik Heidi M.
Published: October 2016

Recent advances in plankton ecology have brought to light the importance of variability within populations and have suggested that cell‐to‐cell differences may influence ecosystem‐level processes such as species succession and bloom dynamics. Flow cytometric cell sorting has been used to capture individual plankton cells from natural water samples to investigate variability at the single cell level, but the crude taxonomic resolution afforded by the fluorescence and light scattering measurements of conventional flow cytometers necessitates sorting and analyzing many cells that may not be of interest. Addition of imaging to flow cytometry improves classification capability considerably: Imaging FlowCytobot, which has been deployed at the Martha's Vineyard Coastal Observatory since 2006, allows classification of many kinds of nano‐ and microplankton to the genus or even species level. We present in this paper a modified bench‐top Imaging FlowCytobot (IFCB‐Sorter) with the capability to sort both single cells and colonies of phytoplankton and microzooplankton from seawater samples. The cells (or subsets selected based on their images) can then be cultured for further manipulation or processed for analyses such as nucleic acid sequencing. The sorting is carried out in two steps: a fluorescence signal triggers imaging and diversion of the sample flow into a commercially available “catcher tube,” and then a solenoid‐based flow control system isolates each sorted cell along with 20 μL of fluid.
Gold Nanocarriers for Macrophage‐Targeted Therapy of Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Zazo Hinojal , Colino Clara I. , Warzecha Klaudia T. , Hoss Mareike , Gbureck Uwe , Trautwein Christian , Tacke Frank , Lanao José M. , Bartneck Matthias
Published: October 2016

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continues to be a global pandemic and there is an urgent need for innovative treatment. Immune cells represent a major target of virus infection, but are also therapeutic targets. Currently, no antiretroviral therapy targets macrophages, which function as portal of entry and as major long‐term deposit of HIV. It has been shown before that human macrophages efficiently internalize gold nanoparticles, a fact which might be used to target them with drug‐nanoparticle conjugates. Here, the authors use gold nanocarriers to facilitate delivery of stavudine, a widely used antiretroviral drug, to primary human macrophages. Using an ease‐of‐use coupling method, a striking potentiation of stavudine intake by macrophages using gold nanocarriers is shown. Further, the carriers induce a specific subtype of proinflammatory activation indicative for antiviral activity of macrophages, which suggests promising novel treatment options for HIV.

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The corrosion of carbon steel in nitrate hydrates used as phase change materials
Authors: Danielik V. , Šoška P. , Felgerová K. , Zemanová M.
Published: October 2016

Corrosion behaviour of mild carbon steel was studied in five assumed phase change materials: magnesium nitrate hexahydrate, magnesium nitrate hexahydrate with the addition of magnesium hydroxide (0.5 wt%) and strontium hydroxide (0.5 wt%), respectively, at 90 °C; calcium nitrate tetrahydrate at 50 °C and a mixture of magnesium nitrate hexahydrate and calcium nitrate tetrahydrate (1:1) at 72 °C. Corrosion rate was studied via mass loss and the steel specimens were analysed after the study. The corrosion rate of steel specimens is over recommended limit except of the mixture Mg(NO3)2 · 6 H2O − Ca(NO3)2 · 4 H2O (1:1). Steel can be used for the long‐term service in this mixture while in the other cases it can be used only with caution based on the specific application.
Sequence Determination and Regulation in the Living Anionic Copolymerization of Styrene and 1,1‐Diphenylethylene (DPE) Derivatives
Authors: Ma Hongwei , Han Li , Li Yang
Published: October 2016

The living anionic copolymerization of styrene (St) and 1,1‐diphenylethylene (DPE) derivatives were carried out to investigate how the DPE units are distributed along the polymer chain. Based on the combination of timing sample method and exact characterizations, the sequence determination method was established to reveal the sequential distribution of DPE units along the functionalized chains. In the copolymerization of St and DPE‐SiH, when DPE‐SiH was excessively fed, a strictly alternating structure can be prepared. As the feed ratios of S/D increased, a gradient structure was obtained. Additionally, when the substituent structure of the DPE derivatives changed, the sequence structure could be regulated. It has been confirmed in the copolymerization of St and DPE‐SiH/OMe or DPE‐SiH/NMe2, that the electron‐donating group (‐OMe or ‐NMe2) was introduced into DPE‐SiH. Then, the preliminary sequence regulation method was found. Meanwhile the sequence‐determined grafting was investigated, and bottlebrush polymers with sequence‐determined branches were successfully synthesized.

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Genetic analysis of the dystrophin gene in children with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies
Authors: Zhong Jingzi , Xu Tiantian , Chen Gang , Liao Haixia , Zhang Jiapeng , Lan Dan
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies (DMD and BMD) are X‐linked myopathies caused by mutations of the dystrophin gene.

Methods

Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) combined with next‐generation sequencing (NGS) of the exons of the dystrophin gene were performed in 92 suspected DMD/BMD patients. Patients with negative results were subjected to additional muscle diseases panel tests.

Results

DNA rearrangements were detected in 65 (70.65%) patients using MLPA. The deletions primarily clustered at exons 45–55, followed by exons 2–19. The duplication locations were in contrast to previous studies, which involved the 3′ end of the gene. A total of 21 cases with point mutations were detected by NGS analysis. Furthermore, 6 previously unreported mutations were detected. Limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy was confirmed in 2 patients after analysis with the muscle diseases panel.

Conclusions

MLPA combined with NGS was effective for detection of the mutations in dystrophin gene exons. Muscle Nerve 56: 117–121, 2017.
Student Characteristics and Behaviours in Childhood Predict Self–reported Health in Middle Adulthood
Authors: Spengler Marion , Roberts Brent W. , Lüdtke Oliver , Martin Romain , Brunner Martin
Published: October 2016

We examined how self–reported and teacher–rated student characteristics in primary school were associated with adult self–reported health. A representative sample of Luxembourgish students was assessed in 1968 ( M age = 11.9, SD = 0.6) and 2008 (N = 745; M age = 51.8, SD = 0.6). Self–reported sense of inferiority and pessimism in childhood were negatively related to subjective health and vitality–related quality of life/health in adulthood (rs = −.08 to −.12); teacher–rated studiousness (age 12 years) was positively related to subjective health, healthcare utilization and vitality–related quality of life/health (age 52 years; rs = .13 to .16). After controlling for childhood IQ, parental socio–economic status, educational attainment and sex in multiple regression analyses, most effects of teacher–rated studiousness showed incremental validity beyond the controls. School entitlement, sense of inferiority, impatience and pessimism were positively related to body mass index (rs = .08 to .13). The responsible student scale and teacher–rated studiousness were negatively related to body mass index (rs = −.09 to −.13). The findings demonstrate that childhood characteristics and behaviours are important life–course predictors of key health dimensions beyond childhood IQ and parental socio–economic status. In addition, this narrower level of assessment adds significantly to the empirical body of knowledge on long–term predictors of health outcomes in adulthood. Copyright © 2016 European Association of Personality Psychology.
Generality or Specificity? Examining the Relation between Personality Traits and Mental Health Outcomes Using a Bivariate Bi–factor Latent Change Model
Authors: Mu Wenting , Luo Jing , Nickel Lauren , Roberts Brent W.
Published: October 2016

Most previous research has focused on the relationships between specific personality traits and specific facets of mental health. However, in reality most of the Big Five are associated at non–trivial levels with mental health. To account for this broad correlation, we proposed the ‘barometer hypothesis’, positing that behind both ratings of mental health and personality lies a barometer that indicates one's general feelings of positivity or negativity. To the extent that both the general factors of personality and mental health reflect this same barometer, we would expect them to be correlated. We tested alternative models using data from a large longitudinal panel study that includes two cohorts of participants who were assessed every two years, resulting in parallel 4–year longitudinal studies. Similar results were obtained across both studies. Supporting the ‘barometer hypothesis’, findings revealed that the optimal model included general latent factors for both personality traits and mental health. Compared to the broad raw pairwise correlations, the bi–factor latent change models revealed that the relation among levels and changes in the specific factors were substantially reduced when controlling for the general factors. Still, some relations remained relatively unaffected by the inclusion of the general factor. We discuss implications of these findings. Copyright © 2016 European Association of Personality Psychology
A Comprehensive Chemical Model for the Splitting of CO2 in Non‐Equilibrium Plasmas
Authors: Koelman Peter , Heijkers Stijn , Tadayon Mousavi Samaneh , Graef Wouter , Mihailova Diana , Kozak Tomas , Bogaerts Annemie , van Dijk Jan
Published: October 2016

An extensive CO2 plasma model is presented that is relevant for the production of “solar fuels.” It is based on reaction rate coefficients from rigorously reviewed literature, and is augmented with reaction rate coefficients that are obtained from scaling laws. The input data set, which is suitable for usage with the plasma simulation software Plasimo (https://plasimo.phys.tue.nl/), is available via the Plasimo and publisher's websites. The cor­rectness of this model implementation has been established by indepen­dent ZDPlasKin implementation (http://www.zdplaskin.laplace.univ‐tlse.fr/), to verify that the results agree. Results of these “global models” are presented for a DBD plasma reactor.
Modeling of a Microwave Plasma Driven Biomass Pyrolitic Conversion for Energy Production
Authors: Tsyganov Dmitry L. , Bundaleska Neli , Tatarova Elena
Published: October 2016

The thermal decomposition of biomass particles in a microwave plasma operating at atmospheric pressure conditions has been theoretically investigated. The set of equations, including thermal balance equations for the gas and biomass particles and kinetic rate balance equations for stable and intermediate components of biomass decomposition was solved for two different assumptions: thermal equilibrium and non‐equilibrium. The thermal equilibrium assumption is acceptable given the high temperature and high reaction rates achievable in the microwave plasma environment, and although it hides the evolution of the pyrolysis process, it allows the description of the detailed chemical composition of the stable pyrolysis by‐products (H2, CO, C2H2, and C [solid]).
Hot Air or Comprehensive Progress? A Critical Assessment of the SDGs
Authors: Spangenberg Joachim H.
Published: October 2016

Since the SDGs have been adopted, the focus of the policy, civil society and academic debate is on how to implement ‘the SDGs’. However, if there are inherent contradictions, it will be impossible to implement all goals, and a choice has to be made. This paper analyses the SDGs regarding their coherence and its impacts on their implementation. It does so by using the DPSIR heuristic looking at driving forces, pressures, states, impacts and responses of sustainability challenges. The opportunities for success are assessed by a closer look at the agency mentioned in the SDG–Agenda 2030 text. The SDGs are found to be weak on agency, with limited obligations to governments and none to business or consumers. They focus on state and impact, neglecting the pressures and supporting counterproductive drivers. In conclusion, either the positive targets will not be realized, or the means of implementation must be upgraded significantly. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
DNA‐Decorated Luminescent Vesicles as Drug Carriers
Authors: Thelu Hari Veera Prasad , Albert Shine K. , Golla Murali , Krishnan Nithiyanandan , Yamijala Santosh Bhargav , Nair Sreeja V. , Srinivasula S. Murty , Varghese Reji
Published: October 2016

DNA based spherical nanostructures is one of the promising nanocarriers for drug delivery applications because of their excellent biocompatibility and unique structural features of DNA. Herein, we report the amphiphilicity driven self‐assembly of DNA‐phenyleneethynylene based amphiphile into luminescent vesicles and their cellular uptake toward HeLa cell. Spectroscopic and microscopic analyses reveal the self‐assembly of this class of amphiphiles into vesicular nanostructures with corona made of DNA and a functional hydrophobic membrane. Vesicles exhibit promising cell permeability.
Healthy Change Processes—A Diary Study of Five Organizational Units. Establishing a Healthy Change Feedback Loop
Authors: Lien Mathilde , Saksvik Per Øystein
Published: October 2016

This paper explores a change process in the Central Norway Regional Health Authority that was brought about by the implementation of a new economics and logistics system. The purpose of this paper is to contribute to understanding of how employees' attitudes towards change develop over time and how attitudes differ between the five health trusts under this authority. In this paper, we argue that a process‐oriented focus through a longitudinal diary method, in addition to action research and feedback loops, will provide greater understanding of the evaluation of organizational change and interventions. This is explored through the assumption that different units will have different perspectives and attitudes towards the same intervention over time because of different contextual and time‐related factors. The diary method aims to capture the context, events, reflections and interactions when they occur and allows for a nuanced frame of reference for the different phases of the implementation process and how these phases are perceived by employees. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shear load testing of damaged hollow‐core slabs
Authors: Schacht Gregor , Marx Steffen , Bolle Guido
Published: October 2016

As a result of poor‐quality sealing, moisture and deicing agents had penetrated into the prestressed hollow‐core slabs of the top floor of an uncovered parking deck. The slabs showed especially severe chloride‐induced damage in the support regions near the joints. Owing to the damage, the theoretical shear capacity according to the technical approval of these slabs was highly questionable. The influence of the damage on the shear capacity of the slabs with different levels of damage was determined with the help of an experimental in situ loading test. Based on the results, the number of slabs that had to be replaced or repaired could be reduced. For the experimental investigation of the shear capacity of the hollow‐core slabs, a combination of photogrammetry, acoustic emission analysis, and curvature measurement for each section was used to determine the initial shear damage on a very low level during the test. The comparison of the results of the different measuring techniques allowed the damage processes to be clearly identified and significantly increased the quality of information about the structural condition of the slabs during the experimental investigation.
Transfer Hydrogenation in Water
Authors: Wu Xiaofeng , Wang Chao , Xiao Jianliang
Published: October 2016

This article provides an account of our group's efforts in developing aqueous‐phase transfer hydrogenation reactions. It is comprised of mainly two parts. The first part concentrates on asymmetric transfer hydrogenation in water, enabled by Noyori–Ikariya catalysts, while the second part is concerned with the achiral version of the reaction catalysed by a new class of catalysts, iridacycles. A range of substrates are featured, including various carbonyl compounds and N‐heterocycles.
Reproductive toxicity induced by nickel nanoparticles in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Kong Lu , Gao Xiaojie , Zhu Jiaqian , Zhang Ting , Xue Yuying , Tang Meng
Published: October 2016

To investigate the reproductive toxicity and underlying mechanism of nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs), Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) were treated with/without 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 μg cm−2 of Ni NPs or nickel microparticles (Ni MPs). Generation time, fertilized egg numbers, spermatide activation and motility were detected. Results indicated, under the same treatment doses, that Ni NPs induced higher reproductive toxicity to C. elegans than Ni MPs. Reproductive toxicities observed in C. elegans included a decrease in brood size, fertilized egg and spermatide activation, but an increase in generation time and out‐of‐round spermatids. The reproductive toxicity of Ni NPs on C. elegans may be induced by oxidative stress. The reproductive toxicity in C. elegans induced by Ni NPs is consistent with our previous results in the rats. Therefore, C. elegans can be used as an alternative model to detect the early reproductive toxicity of Ni NPs exposure. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1530–1538, 2017.
Effect size – large, medium, and small
Authors: Leppink Jimmie , O’Sullivan Patricia , Winston Kal
Published: October 2016

The overall purpose of the ‘Statistical Points and Pitfalls’ series is to help readers and researchers alike increase awareness of how to use statistics and why/how we fall into inappropriate choices or interpretations. We hope to help readers understand common misconceptions and give clear guidance on how to avoid common pitfalls by offering simple tips to improve your reporting of quantitative research findings. Each entry discusses a commonly encountered inappropriate practice and alternatives from a pragmatic perspective with minimal mathematics involved. We encourage readers to share comments on or suggestions for this section on Twitter, using the hashtag: #mededstats.