bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusion‐weighted imaging and 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography in breast cancer: Correlation of the apparent diffusion coefficient and maximum standardized uptake values with prognostic factors
Authors: Karan Belgin , Pourbagher Aysin , Torun Nese
Published: December 2015

Purpose

To evaluate the correlations between the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value and the standardized uptake value (SUV) with prognostic factors in breast cancer.

Materials and Methods

Seventy women with invasive breast cancer (56 cases of invasive ductal carcinoma, four of mixed ductal and lobular invasive carcinoma, three of lobular invasive carcinoma, two of micropapillary carcinoma, and one each of mixed ductal and mucinous carcinoma, mucinous carcinoma, medullary carcinoma, metaplastic carcinoma, and tubular carcinoma) were included in this study. All patients underwent presurgical breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) at 1.5T and whole‐body 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) / computed tomography (CT). For all invasive breast cancers and invasive ductal carcinomas, we assessed the relationships among ADC, SUV, and pathological prognostic factors.

Results

Both the median ADC value and maximum SUV (SUVmax) were significantly associated with vascular invasion (P = 0.008 and P = 0.026, respectively). SUVmax was also significantly correlated with tumor size (P = 0.001), histological grade (P = 0.001), lymph node status (P = 0.0015), estrogen receptor status (P = 0.010), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 status (P = 0.020), whereas ADC values were not. The correlation between the ADC and SUVmax was not significant (P = 0.356; R = –0.112). Mucinous carcinoma showed high ADC and relatively low SUVmax. Medullary carcinoma showed low ADC and high SUVmax. When we evaluated the relationships among ADC, SUVmax, and prognostic factors in the 56 invasive ductal carcinomas, our statistical results were not significantly changed, except SUVmax was also significantly associated with progesterone receptor status (P = 0.034), but not lymph node status.

Conclusion

SUVmax may be valuable for predicting the prognosis of breast cancer. Both ADC and SUVmax are useful to predict vascular invasion. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1434–1444.
Breast MRI radiogenomics: Current status and research implications
Authors: Grimm Lars J.
Published: December 2015

Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radiogenomics is an emerging area of research that has the potential to directly influence clinical practice. Clinical MRI scanners today are capable of providing excellent temporal and spatial resolution, which allows extraction of numerous imaging features via human extraction approaches or complex computer vision algorithms. Meanwhile, advances in breast cancer genetics research has resulted in the identification of promising genes associated with cancer outcomes. In addition, validated genomic signatures have been developed that allow categorization of breast cancers into distinct molecular subtypes as well as predict the risk of cancer recurrence and response to therapy. Current radiogenomics research has been directed towards exploratory analysis of individual genes, understanding tumor biology, and developing imaging surrogates to genetic analysis with the long‐term goal of developing a meaningful tool for clinical care. The background of breast MRI radiogenomics research, image feature extraction techniques, approaches to radiogenomics research, and promising areas of investigation are reviewed. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1269–1278.
An optimized dosing regimen of cimaglermin (neuregulin 1β3, glial growth factor 2) enhances molecular markers of neuroplasticity and functional recovery after permanent ischemic stroke in rats
Authors: Iaci Jennifer F. , Parry Tom J. , Huang Zhihong , Pavlopoulos Elias , Finklestein Seth P. , Ren Jingmei , Caggiano Anthony
Published: December 2015

Cimaglermin (neuregulin 1β3, glial growth factor 2) is a neuregulin growth factor family member in clinical development for chronic heart failure. Previously, in a permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) rat stroke model, systemic cimaglermin treatment initiated up to 7 days after ischemia onset promoted recovery without reduced lesion volume. Presented here to extend the evidence are two studies that use a rat stroke model to evaluate the effects of cimaglermin dose level and dose frequency initiated 24 hr after pMCAO. Forelimb‐ and hindlimb‐placing scores (proprioceptive behavioral tests), body‐swing symmetry, and infarct volume were compared between treatment groups (n = 12/group). Possible mechanisms underlying cimaglermin‐mediated neurologic recovery were examined through axonal growth and synapse formation histological markers. Cimaglermin was evaluated over a wider dose range (0.02, 0.1, or 1.0 mg/kg) than doses previously shown to be effective but used the same dosing regimen (2 weeks of daily intravenous administration, then 1 week without treatment). The dose‐frequency study used the dose‐ranging study's most effective dose (1.0 mg/kg) to compare daily, once per week, and twice per week dosing for 3 weeks (then 1 week without treatment). Dose‐ and frequency‐dependent functional improvements were observed with cimaglermin without reduced lesion volume. Cimaglermin treatment significantly increased growth‐associated protein 43 expression in both hemispheres (particularly somatosensory and motor cortices) and also increased synaptophysin expression. These data indicate that cimaglermin enhances recovery after stroke. Immunohistochemical changes were consistent with axonal sprouting and synapse formation but not acute neuroprotection. Cimaglermin represents a potential clinical development candidate for ischemic stroke treatment. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Neuroscience Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in the Salmonella enterica Enteritidis phenotypes in presence of acyl homoserine lactone quorum sensing signals
Authors: Campos‐Galvão Maria Emilene Martino , Ribon Andrea Oliveira Barros , Araújo Elza Fernandes , Vanetti Maria Cristina Dantas
Published: December 2015

Quorum sensing is used by bacteria to coordinate gene expression in response to population density and involves the production, detection and response to extracellular signaling molecules known as autoinducers (AIs). Salmonella does not synthesize the AI‐1, acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) common to gram‐negative bacteria; however, it has a receptor for AI‐1, the SdiA protein. The effect of SdiA in modulating phenotypes of Salmonella has not been elucidated. In this report, we provide evidence that the AIs‐1 affect Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis behavior by enhancing the biofilm formation and expression of virulence genes under anaerobic conditions. Biofilm formation by Salmonella was detected by the crystal violet method and by scanning electron microscopy. The presence of AHLs, particularly C12‐HSL, increased biofilm formation and promoted expression of biofilm formation genes (lpfA, fimF, fliF, glgC) and virulence genes (hilA, invA, invF). Our results demonstrated that AHLs produced by other organisms played an important role in virulence phenotypes of Salmonella Enteritidis.
Deciphering the salinity adaptation mechanism in Penicilliopsis clavariiformis AP, a rare salt tolerant fungus from mangrove
Authors: Kashyap Prem Lal , Rai Anuradha , Singh Ruchi , Chakdar Hillol , Kumar Sudheer , Srivastava Alok Kumar
Published: December 2015

Penicilliopsis clavariiformis AP, a rare salt tolerant fungus reported for the first time from India was identified through polyphasic taxonomy. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the fungus has unique features such as biverticillate penicilli bearing masses of oval to ellipsoidal conidia. The fungus has been characterized for salt tolerance and to understand the relevance of central carbon metabolism in salt stress adaptation. It showed optimal growth at 24 °C and able to tolerate up to 10% (w/v) NaCl. To understand the mechanism of adaptation to high salinity, activities of the key enzymes regulating glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, and tricarboxylic acid cycle were investigated under normal (0% NaCl) and saline stress environment (10% NaCl). The results revealed a re‐routing of carbon metabolism away from glycolysis to the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), served as a cellular stress‐resistance mechanism in fungi under saline environment. The detection and significant expression of fungus genes (Hsp98, Hsp60, HTB, and RHO) under saline stress suggest that these halotolerance conferring genes from the fungus could have a role in fungus protection and adaptation under saline environment. Overall, the present findings indicate that the rearrangement of the metabolic fluxes distribution and stress related genes play an important role in cell survival and adaptation under saline environment.
Vegetation, fire, and climate history during the last 18 500 cal a BP in south‐western Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Xiao Xiayun , Shen J. I. , Haberle Simon G. , Han Yong , Xue Bin , Zhang Enlou , Wang Sumin , Tong Guobang
Published: December 2015

High‐resolution pollen and charcoal records from Qinghai Lake in south‐western China are presented. The records reveal variations in vegetation, fire and climate history since 18 500 cal a BP. The results show that seven significant vegetation changes are recorded, which are responses to climate changes and/or fire events. Frequent and intensive fires occurred during the periods 17 900–15 000, 13 000–11 500 and 4280–980 cal a BP, corresponding to relatively dry climatic conditions. Combined with the climatic record from Tiancai Lake, the regional climatic changes since 18 500 cal a BP in western Yunnan Province are reconstructed. Namely, the Heinrich Event 1, the Bølling–Allerød warm period and the Younger Dryas event during the last deglaciation are ubiquitous in western Yunnan Province. The start of the Holocene is recorded at 11 500 cal a BP. The Holocene climatic optimum occurred between 8450 and 4280 cal a BP. After 4280 cal a BP, the climate deteriorated, accompanied by evidence for human impact. Based on this study, we consider that vegetation and climatic changes since 18 500 cal a BP in south‐western Yunnan Province are primarily driven by September and average summer solar insolation, with some associated influence from regional sea‐surface temperature and sea‐level rise.
A late Pleistocene–Holocene multi‐proxy record of palaeoenvironmental change from Still Bay, southern Cape Coast, South Africa
Authors: Quick Lynne J. , Carr Andrew S. , Meadows Michael E. , Boom Arnoud , Bateman Mark D. , Roberts David L. , Reimer Paula J. , Chase Brian M.
Published: December 2015

The southern Cape is a key focus for southern African palaeoenvironmental research as it represents the transitional region between temperate westerlies and sub‐tropical rainfall sources. This study presents pollen, plant biomarker, geochemical and charcoal data preserved in the Rietvlei wetland. The bulk of the record spans the last 16 ka, but it also provides rare insights into late Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage (MIS) 3 (ca. 35–30k cal a BP). The data suggest that during the Pleistocene the development and permanence of this wetland was probably influenced by sea‐level change via control on the local water table; notably lower sea levels within MIS 2 resulted in very limited wetland productivity. The MIS 3 section provides evidence both supporting previous suggestions of relatively humid conditions, but also some indication of periodic arid phases. The Holocene record suggests clear contrasts between the early (11–7k cal a BP; relatively humid), mid‐Holocene (7–3.3k cal a BP; more arid, less productive wetland conditions) and latest Holocene (last 2k cal a BP; resurgence in both fynbos and aquatic/riparian pollen). While isolating the roles of winter/summer rainfall remains challenging, these data clarify the nature of change during key episodes in the regional palaeoenvironmental record.
Discrimination of some European vinegars with protected denomination of origin as a function of their amino acid and biogenic amine content
Authors: Chinnici Fabio , Durán‐Guerrero Enrique , Riponi Claudio
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Twenty‐three amino acids and 11 amines were quantified in 37 premium quality European vinegars (traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena, balsamic vinegars of Modena and vinegars of Jerez) by an HPLC‐DAD method after derivatisation with diethyl ethoxymethylenmalonate. Data were assessed in the light of the differences in technology and raw materials.

RESULTS

The total amount of amino acids ranged from 136 mg kg−1 to 1450 mg kg−1 in traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena and balsamic vinegar of Modena, respectively. Jerez vinegars had a mean content from 351 mg kg−1 to 921 mg kg−1. Proline, glycine and γ‐aminobutyric acid were the main amino acids while isoleucine was only found in balsamic vinegar of Modena at a concentration of <1 mg kg−1. Traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena had the lowest amount of biogenic amines. However, for all the vinegars, their concentration did not raise health issues. Based on the entire dataset, samples were successfully segregated and classified by means of principal component and cluster analysis.

CONCLUSION

The amino acid and amine content in vinegars is influenced by the production process and raw materials. They may potentially contribute in characterising the European premium quality vinegars also for authentication or anti‐fraud purposes. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma presenting with variceal bleeding: The eastern experience
Authors: Yang Tian , He Haiguan , Yuan Jianyong , Zhang Jin , Lu Junhua , Lau Wan Yee , Yang Guangshun , Shen Yinan , Wang Zhouchong , Alshebeeb Kutaiba , Wu Mengchao , Shen Feng
Published: December 2015

Background

Variceal bleeding can be the first manifestation of patients with newly diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and effective treatments deserve to be explored for these patients.

Methods

A prospectively collected database of HCC patients undergoing hepatectomy identified 75 patients who presented with variceal bleeding. Among them, 31 patients underwent concomitant Hassab's operation. The clinical variables and outcomes were compared between the Hassab and non‐Hassab groups.

Results

The postoperative morbidity and 90‐days mortality were 44.0% and 6.7% respectively. Variceal re‐bleeding and tumor recurrence occurred in 28.8% and 52.1% of surviving patients after surgery, and the 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year overall survival rates were 87.7, 66.8, and 50.3%. There were no significant differences in morbidity, mortality and postoperative recurrence between the Hassab and non‐Hassab groups. However, patients in the Hassab group had significantly higher 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year overall survival rates (P = 0.038), and significantly lower rate of re‐bleeding (13.3% vs. 39.5%, P = 0.014) than those in the non‐Hassab group. On multivariable analysis, concomitant Hassab's operation was independently predicted longer overall survival.

Conclusion

Liver resection could safely be performed in selected patients with HCC who presented with variceal bleeding, and concomitant Hassab's operation may improve long‐term prognosis for these patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:165–174. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The importance of surgical margins in primary malignancies of the liver
Authors: Lafaro Kelly , Grandhi Miral Sadaria , Herman Joseph M. , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: December 2015

Resection is an important treatment modality for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Anatomic resection is generally preferred for HCC. When anatomic resection is not feasible, prospective data have demonstrated an improved outcome among HCC patients who have a resection with wide versus narrow surgical margins. Similarly, among patients with ICC, R1 resection has been associated with worse outcomes. In addition, margin width may also impact risk of recurrence and survival. As such, provided adequate functional liver remnant remains, anatomic resection with wide margins is recommended for HCC and ICC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:296–303. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Whispering‐gallery microcavities with unidirectional laser emission
Authors: Jiang Xue‐Feng , Zou Chang‐Ling , Wang Li , Gong Qihuang , Xiao Yun‐Feng
Published: December 2015

Optical whispering‐gallery mode (WGM) microcavities featuring ultrahigh Q factors and small mode volumes enhance significantly the interaction between light and matter, becoming an excellent platform for achieving ultralow‐threshold microlasers. However, the emission of traditional WGMs is isotropic due to the rotational symmetry of cavity geometries, which hinders the potential photonics applications. In this review, the progress in WGM microcavities towards unidirectional laser emission is summarized. When a subwavelength scatterer is placed on the boundary of the microcavity, the unidirectional emission occurs due to the collimation effect of the microcavity‐enhanced scattering field. Furthermore, microcavities deformed from the circular shapes can not only produce the chaos‐assisted unidirectional emission, but also maintain high Q factors by special design and fabrication processes. Finally, gratings along the circumference of the WGM microdisk or microring can scatter the WGMs in the vertical direction. The review also lists several important applications of these types of microcavities, such as wide‐band laser illumination source, free‐space coupling, evanescent‐field enhancement, optical energy storage, and sensing.

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LEVERAGING GRIT FOR LEADERSHIP SUCCESS
Authors: Sudbrink Laurie
Published: December 2015

Many leaders, Sudbrink believes, display traditional characteristics of what we often think of as the quality of grit: tenacity, perseverance and toughness. Yet if these qualities are wielded in an autocratic, command and control style, these leaders can cause harm. What is needed is a new conception, what she calls GRIT®. The acronym stands for Generosity, Respect, Integrity, and Truth. These attributes lead to the “ability to be more human and genuine, instead of hiding behind the mask of professionalism.” It means letting go of the need for perfection, while tapping into our emotional intelligence, self‐awareness and empathy. And it requires remembering that our ego can often get in our way by causing fear‐based behavior.
Polyelectrolytes Multilayers to Modulate Cell Adhesion: A Study of the Influence of Film Composition and Polyelectrolyte Interdigitation on the Adhesion of the A549 Cell Line
Authors: Muzzio Nicolás E. , Pasquale Miguel A. , Gregurec Danijela , Diamanti Eleftheria , Kosutic Marija , Azzaroni Omar , Moya Sergio E.
Published: December 2015

Polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) with different polycation/polyanion pairs are fabricated by the layer‐by‐layer technique employing synthetic, natural, and both types of polyelectrolytes. The impact of the chemical composition of PEMs on cell adhesion is assessed by studying cell shape, spreading area, focal contacts, and cell proliferation for the A549 cell line. Cells exhibit good adhesion on PEMs containing natural polycations and poly(sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate) (PSS) as polyanion, but limited adhesion is observed on PEMs fabricated from both natural polyelectrolytes. PEMs are then assembled, depositing a block of natural polyelectrolytes on top of a stiffer block with PSS as polyanion. Cell adhesion is enhanced on top of the diblock PEMs compared to purely natural PEMs. This fact could be explained by the interdigitation between polyelectrolytes from the two blocks. Diblock PEM assembly provides a simple means to tune cell adhesion on biocompatible PEMs.

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Improvement in Mechanical Properties and Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Effectiveness of PVA‐Based Composites: Synergistic Effect Between Graphene Nano‐Sheets and Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Lin Jia‐Horng , Lin Zheng‐Ian , Pan Yi‐Jun , Chen Chih‐Kuang , Huang Chien‐Lin , Huang Chen‐Hung , Lou Ching‐Wen
Published: December 2015

In this study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/graphene nano‐sheets (GNs) composites are produced via solution mixing and melt compounding methods, where multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are added during process. After that, the test results show that PVA/GNs composites composed of 0.25 wt% GNs possess the optimal tensile strength, while the others composed of 2 wt% GNs have a higher thermal stability, electrical conductivity, and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE). The addition of MWCNTs provides the PVA/GNs composites with better synergy that can enhance the tensile properties, thermal stability, electrical conductivity, and EMI SE of composites. In comparison to the melt compounding method, the solution mixing method can yield improved properties.
Reversing the Similarity Effect in Stock‐Outs: A New Look at a Renowned Phenomenon in Consumers’ Brand Switching Behavior
Authors: Müller Holger , Diels Jana
Published: December 2015

Over 40 years of research has established the robustness of the similarity effect (SE; Tversky, ), which states that the introduction of new options into choice sets predominantly reduces the choice share of similar options. The present work examines whether the SE systematically reverses when real brands are excluded from assortment subsets, as is the case with stock‐outs in real purchase decisions. To this end, within‐subject decisions are examined under certain out‐of‐stock (OOS) conditions in an enhanced experimental design that resembles real shopping environments. Specifically, unforced choices of experienced consumers, inclusive of real payments, are observed for products in online transactions. The results of two studies corroborate the existence of a reserved SE. Specifically, the OOS‐induced switching patterns systematically refute the assumptions of classic economic theory, since consumers disproportionately switch to alternatives which are similar to the unavailable item in contrast to dissimilar substitutes. Finally, managerial implications and potential directions for follow‐up research in the general domain of marketing are deduced.
Exploring Green Brand Associations through a Network Analysis Approach
Authors: Wang Hui‐Ju , Horng Shun‐Ching
Published: December 2015

In compliance with society's growing concern for the environment, an increasing number of enterprises are willing to act in socially responsible and environmentally conscious ways. Green‐related issues for enterprises have been an important academic research topic for at least three decades; however, few studies have focused on green brand associations. Based on the associative network perspective, the authors attempt to explore green brand associations through a network analysis approach. By combining network analysis with the qualitative elicitation method, the authors utilize commonly used measures of network analysis (i.e., centrality and cohesion measures) to reveal the content and structure of associative networks for green brands; next, they demonstrate empirical support for the findings. The results contribute to providing brand researchers with different analytical perspectives on the existing knowledge about green brand associations and offering strategic information for green brand practitioners.
Effect of lifestyle and reproductive factors on the onset of breast cancer in female BRCA 1 and 2 mutation carriers
Authors: Rieder Viktoria , Salama Mohamed , Glöckner Lena , Muhr Daniela , Berger Andreas , Tea Muy‐Kheng , Pfeiler Georg , Rappaport‐Fuerhauser Christine , Gschwantler‐Kaulich Daphne , Weingartshofer Sigrid , Singer Christian F
Published: December 2015

Background

The birth year‐dependent onset of breast cancer (BC) in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers suggests a risk‐modifying role for reproductive and life style factors. We therefore examined possible associations between these factors and age at diagnosis.

Methods

Cox regression analysis and log‐Rank testing were used to estimate the effect of potential life style factors on the onset of BC in 197 BRCA mutation carriers.

Results

Nulliparous BRCA mutation carriers developed BC earlier than those who had delivered (36.4 vs. 40.9; P = 0.001). Similarly, smokers and women who had used oral contraceptives experienced an earlier cancer onset (39.0 vs. 41.4; P = 0.05 and 39.3 vs. 44.9; P = 0.0001, respectively). In multivariate analysis, oral contraceptive use (HR: 1.7; P = 0.006) and birth cohort (< vs. ≥1965 HR: 4.5; P = 0.001) were associated with an earlier BC onset, while previous pregnancies led to a delay (HR: 0.2; P = 0.04). Mutation carriers born ≥1965 were less likely to have experienced pregnancies and more likely to have used oral contraceptives, and consequently developed BC at an earlier age (median age: 42 vs. 58; P < 0.0001 log‐Rank test).

Conclusion

We here demonstrate that in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers the birth cohort‐associated differences in the onset of BC are profound and influenced by reproductive factors.
Green tea extract provides extensive Nrf2‐independent protection against lipid accumulation and NFκB pro‐ inflammatory responses during nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in mice fed a high‐fat diet
Authors: Li Jinhui , Sapper Teryn N. , Mah Eunice , Rudraiah Swetha , Schill Kevin E. , Chitchumroonchokchai Chureeporn , Moller Meredith V. , McDonald Joshua D. , Rohrer Philip R. , Manautou José E. , Bruno Richard S.
Published: December 2015

Scope

Green tea extract (GTE) reduces liver steatosis and inflammation during nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We hypothesized GTE would mitigate NASH in a nuclear factor erythroid‐2‐related‐factor‐2 (Nrf2)‐dependent manner in a high fat (HF) induced model.

Methods and results

Nrf2‐null and wild‐type (WT) mice were fed an HF diet containing 0 or 2% GTE for eight weeks prior to assessing parameters of NASH. Compared to WT mice, Nrf2‐null mice had increased serum alanine aminotransferase, hepatic triglyceride, expression of free fatty acid uptake and lipogenic genes, malondialdehyde and NFκB phosphorylation and expression of pro‐inflammatory genes. In WT mice, GTE increased Nrf2 and NADPH:quinone oxidoreductase‐1 mRNA, and lowered hepatic steatosis, lipid uptake and lipogenic gene expression, malondialdehyde, and NFκB‐dependent inflammation. In Nrf2‐null mice, GTE lowered NFκB phosphorylation and TNF‐α and MCP1 mRNA to levels observed in WT mice fed GTE whereas hepatic triglyceride and lipogenic genes were lowered only to those of WT mice fed no GTE. Malondialdehyde was lowered in Nrf2‐null mice fed GTE, but not to levels of WT mice, and without improving the hepatic antioxidants α‐tocopherol, ascorbic acid and uric acid.

Conclusion

Nrf2 deficiency exacerbates NASH whereas anti‐inflammatory and hypolipidemic activities of GTE likely occur largely independent of Nrf2 signaling.
Muscle damage, metabolism, and oxidative stress in mdx mice: Impact of aerobic running
Authors: Schill Kevin E. , Altenberger Alex. R. , Lowe Jeovanna , Periasamy Muthu , Villamena Frederick A. , Rafael‐Fortney JIll A. , Devor Steven T.
Published: December 2015

Introduction: We tested how a treadmill exercise program influences oxygen consumption, oxidative stress, and exercise capacity in the mdx mouse, a model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Methods: At age 4 weeks mdx mice were subjected to 4 weeks of twice‐weekly treadmill exercise. Sedentary mdx and wild‐type mice served as controls. Oxygen consumption, time to exhaustion, oxidative stress, and myofiber damage were assessed. Results: At age 4 weeks, there was a significant difference in exercise capacity between mdx and wild‐type mice. After exercise, mdx mice had lower basal oxygen consumption and exercise capacity, but similar maximal oxygen consumption. Skeletal muscle from these mice displayed increased oxidative stress. Collagen deposition was higher in exercised versus sedentary mice. Conclusions: Exercised mdx mice exhibit increased oxidative stress, as well as deficits in exercise capacity, baseline oxygen consumption, and increased myofiber fibrosis. Muscle Nerve 54: 110–117, 2016
Comparative study to evaluate the effects of peritoneal and hemodialysis on peripheral nerve function
Authors: Arnold Ria , Pussell Bruce A. , Kiernan Matthew C. , Krishnan Arun V.
Published: December 2015

Introduction

There is no specific treatment for neuropathy in chronic kidney disease (CKD). We compared nerve function across hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods

Subjects underwent neurological assessment and neurophysiological testing using nerve excitability studies. Pre‐ and postdialysis studies were undertaken in HD (n = 10) and PD (n = 10) patients and were compared with stage 4 CKD patients (n = 12) and healthy controls (n = 20).

Results

There were prominent differences in nerve excitability between the groups (P <  0.001). The HD group was significantly abnormal compared with all groups for excitability parameters, while the PD group demonstrated results similar to the CKD group. Pre‐ and postdialysis fluctuations were pronounced in the HD group, while the PD group showed less severe fluctuations.

Conclusions

PD patients demonstrated greater normality of nerve excitability compared with the HD group despite similar duration of dialysis. These results suggest PD may provide greater homeostatic stability and may be neurologically beneficial. Muscle Nerve 54: 58–64, 2016
DEHP induces obesity and hypothyroidism through both central and peripheral pathways in C3H/He mice
Authors: Lv Ziquan , Cheng Jinquan , Huang Suli , Zhang Yanwei , Wu Shuang , Qiu Yangshen , Geng Yijie , Zhang Qian , Huang Guanqin , Ma Quan , Xie Xing , Zhou Shiquan , Wu Tangchun , Ke Yuebin
Published: December 2015

Objective

Di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is reported to cause obesity and hypothyroidism in both humans and rodents, but the underlying mechanisms were largely unknown. This study was designed to clarify the effects and the mechanisms of DEHP on the pathogenesis of obesity and hypothyroidism and to discover the relationship between them.

Methods

Male C3H/He mice were treated with DEHP for 5 weeks, and the body weight, food intake, and body temperature were recorded during the exposure. After exposure, key organs and serum were analyzed by Q‐PCR, Western blot, and ELISA.

Results

DEHP induced significant body weight gain and adipogenesis in all exposure groups except for 0.05 mg/kg. Marked hyperphagia and daytime hypothermia were also observed, which were accompanied by disturbed hypothalamic neuropeptide expression and reduced BAT UCP1 expression. In addition, WAT lipid metabolism was significantly deceased at low dose (0.5 mg/kg) and increased at high dose (50 and 200 mg/kg). DEHP also induced hypothyroidism, which was probably attributed to the combined effects of hepatic CAR activation and hypothalamic TRH inhibition induced by hypothalamic leptin resistance.

Conclusions

Chronic DEHP exposure could induce obesity by interrupting energy homeostasis, which is probably due to the synergistic effects of hypothyroidism and hypothalamic leptin resistance.
A pilot randomized controlled trial testing the effects of a routine‐based intervention on outcomes in a behavioural weight loss programme
Authors: Demos K. E. , Leahey T. M. , Hart C. N. , Trautvetter J. , Coward P. R. , Duszlak J. , Wing R. R.
Published: December 2015

Background

Structured routines aimed at eating and sleep have been successfully employed in weight loss interventions for children. Although such routines are discussed in lifestyle modification programmes for adults, they are not a primary focus.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine if establishing healthy eating and sleep routines may improve outcomes in a behavioural weight loss (BWL) intervention.

Methods

Twenty‐five overweight/obese participants (age = 52.4 ± 9.8; body mass index = 33.5 ± 4.1) were randomly assigned to either a 4‐week routine‐based intervention (ROU) targeting regular eating and sleep or an education control before beginning an 18‐week BWL intervention.

Results

Routine‐based intervention participants reported adhering to eating routines, with increased ‘on‐schedule’ eating (p = 0.007) and decreased ‘off‐schedule’ eating (p = 0.002) but showed no change in ‘on‐schedule’ sleep (p = 0.74). However, contrary to our hypothesis, ROU participants lost less weight than controls after 6 weeks of BWL (2.3 ± 2.5 vs. 4.6 ± 2.6 kg, p = 0.04) and achieved only modest weight loss over the full 18 weeks (ROU: 3.2 ± 4.6 vs. education control: 5.8 ± 5.7 kg, p = 0.23).

Conclusions

Focusing initially on establishing healthy sleep and eating routines led to poorer, rather than better, subsequent weight loss outcomes. Further studies using a longer initial intervention period or focusing on only sleep or eating behaviour are needed to determine whether establishing routines for eating and sleep behaviours can enhance weight loss in adults.
Thermoplastic acrylic resin with self‐healing properties
Authors: Yerro O. , Radojevic V. , Radovic I. , Petrovic M. , Uskokovic P.S. , Stojanovic D.B. , Aleksic R.
Published: December 2015

This article presents a novel processing method of a self‐healing acrylic thermoplastic material starting from a healing agent in solution form. The self‐healing system consisted of a solution of the healing agent dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) in dimethylformamide (DMF) and a solution of the catalyst bis(tricyclohexylphosphine) benzylidene ruthenium (IV) dichloride (called Grubbs' catalyst) in dichloromethane (DCM). Hollow glass tubes filled with the self‐healing components were incorporated into autopolymerizing acrylic resins. The one set of tubes was filled with a solution of DCPD (containing the dye Rhodamine B as a marker) and the other set with a solution of Grubbs' catalyst in dichloromethane. FTIR and DSC analyses revealed that a poly(DCPD) film formed at the healed interface. The low energy impact tests of the samples showed a recovery of 83% after 4 days. The benefits of the Grubb's catalyst solution are twofold; besides the repair of the cracks, which is common for such a system, the reaction could decrease the content of residual monomer in the acrylic resin, which could reduce diffusion of residual monomer out of the resins. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 56:251–257, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and characterization of multilayer foamed composite by rotational molding
Authors: Vázquez‐Fletes Roberto Carlos , Rosales‐Rivera Luis Carlos , Moscoso‐Sánchez Francisco Javier , Mendizábal Eduardo , Ortega‐Gudiño Pedro , González‐Núñez Rubén , Rodrigue Denis
Published: December 2015

A multilayer material was produced by rotational molding to study the effect of composition on the mechanical behavior of a cylindrical liquid container. The first (outer) layer was a composite of linear medium density polyethylene (LMDPE) with 5, 10, or 15 wt% agave fiber (AF). The core (middle) layer was foamed LMDPE with different amount of foaming agent (0, 0.15, 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 wt%). Finally, the third (internal) layer was neat LMDPE. This structure was produced to optimize the mechanical properties of the molded parts while decreasing weight with good surface properties. From the morphological analysis, it was observed that the layers are not always well defined because of gas migration, especially from the foamed core to the composite layer. As expected, density increased with fiber content while decreasing with foaming agent concentration. In general, impact strength (Charpy and Gardner) was directly related to the overall density of the part. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 56:278–286, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Developing a method and simulation model for evaluating the overall energy performance of a ventilated semi‐transparent photovoltaic double‐skin facade
Authors: Peng Jinqing , Curcija Dragan C. , Lu Lin , Selkowitz Stephen E. , Yang Hongxing , Mitchell Robin
Published: December 2015

A comprehensive simulation model has been developed in this paper to simulate the overall energy performance of an amorphous silicon (a‐Si) based photovoltaic double‐skin facade (PV‐DSF). The methodology and the model simulation procedure are presented in detail. To simulate the overall energy performance, the airflow network model, daylighting model, and the Sandia Array Performance Model in the EnergyPlus software were adopted to simultaneously simulate the thermal, daylighting, and dynamic power output performances of the PV‐DSF. The interaction effects between thermal, daylighting, and the power output performances of the PV‐DSF were reasonably well modeled by coupling the energy generation, heat‐transfer, and optical models. Simulation results were compared with measured data from an outdoor test facility in Hong Kong in which the PV‐DSF performance was measured. The model validation work showed that most of the simulated results agreed very well with the measured data except for a modest overestimation of heat gains in the afternoons. In particular, the root‐mean‐square error between the simulated monthly AC energy output and the measured quantity was only 2.47%. The validation results indicate that the simulation model developed in this study can accurately simulate the overall energy performance of the semi‐transparent PV‐DSF. This model can, therefore, be an effective tool for carrying out optimum design and sensitivity analyses for PV‐DSFs in different climate zones. The methodology developed in this paper also provides a useful reference and starting point for the modeling of other kinds of semi‐transparent thin‐film PV windows or facades. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SETTING THE STAGE FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS THROUGH ANTECEDENT INTERVENTION
Authors: Kruger Alicia M. , Strong Whitney , Daly Edward J. , O'Connor Maureen , Sommerhalder Mackenzie S. , Holtz Jill , Weis Nicole , Kane Elizabeth J. , Hoff Natalie , Heifner Allison
Published: December 2015

Behavior‐analytic academic intervention research has gained popularity among school psychologists because it offers a unique combination of robust principles of behavior and a degree of clarity and precision about functional relationships that is unparalleled in other learning paradigms. This article reviews the literature for a type of antecedent manipulation that is well established in the field of applied behavior analysis, but which has been sorely neglected in the area of academic interventions: motivating operations (MOs). The existing literature suggests two strategies in particular that can be easily combined with existing interventions—choice and indiscriminable contingencies. These strategies can increase the relative strength of reinforcing consequences for correct responses to academic tasks. This article reviews the empirical support for the variety of ways in which each strategy can be implemented and ties their effects to the functional properties of MOs. To date, attempts to bring together in a single publication the most effective strategies falling under the conceptual umbrella of MOs and articulate their implications for academic interventions are lacking. The current article explains the potential role of MOs (and the associated intervention strategies) in academic interventions and provides guidance for their use as components that can be added to academic interventions. The application of MO manipulations is illustrated in a comparison of the effects of indiscriminable contingencies with high‐preference consequences on the rate of math computation fluency for two elementary school children.
Inflammatory indices in meconium aspiration syndrome
Authors: Hofer Nora , Jank Katharina , Strenger Volker , Pansy Jasmin , Resch Bernhard
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is linked to inflammation, but data on the patterns of hematological indices and C‐reactive protein (CRP) in MAS are lacking. The aim of the study was to evaluate CRP, white blood cell count (WBC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), and immature‐to‐total neutrophil ratio (IT‐ratio) in MAS and to assess their association with disease severity.

Methods

Retrospective cross‐sectional study including 239 consecutively admitted neonates with MAS to a level III NICU. Neonates with early onset sepsis were excluded. Results Neonates with severe MAS (invasive mechanical ventilation for <7 days) and very severe MAS (invasive mechanical ventilation for ≥7 days or high frequency ventilation or ECMO) had higher CRP and IT‐ratio compared to neonates with non‐severe MAS (no invasive mechanical ventilation) during the first 2 days of life (CRP: 13.0 and 40.9 vs. 9.5 mg/L, P = 0.039 and <0.001, respectively) and neonates with very severe MAS had lower WBC and ANC. All four inflammatory indices correlated significantly with duration of invasive mechanical ventilation, duration of respiratory support and with length of hospital stay, arterial hypotension, and persistent pulmonary hypertension. Neonates with all four inflammatory indices beyond the normal range had a more than 20‐fold increase in risk for very severe MAS.

Conclusion

High CRP and IT‐ratio and low WBC and ANC values were closely linked to a more severe course of MAS during the early phases of the disease. These findings reflect the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of MAS. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:601–606. 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification of double‐bond positions in isomeric alkenones from a lacustrine haptophyte
Authors: Dillon James T. , Longo William M. , Zhang Yifan , Torozo Rafael , Huang Yongsong
Published: December 2015

Rationale

Measurements of alkenone unsaturation ratios are widely used for paleotemperature reconstructions in ocean and lake environments. Previously, we reported the discovery of a series of tri‐unsaturated alkenone positional isomers (Δ14, 21, 28) from oligosaline and freshwater lakes in Greenland and Alaska. In this work we provide a detailed analysis of the structures and isotopic compositions (δ13C and δ2H) of the alkenones produced by the “Greenland haptophyte”.

Methods

Alkenones were extracted from sediments of Lake BrayaSø, Greenland. Alkenone double‐bond positions were determined by GC/EI‐MS analysis of alkenone dimethyl disulfide and cyclobutylimine derivatives. Alkenones were purified by semi‐preparative HPLC using a silver(I) thiolate stationary phase. Carbon and hydrogen isotope analysis was performed by gas chromatography/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC/IRMS).

Results

A series of novel tri‐unsaturated alkenone positional isomers were identified among four alkenone homologues (i.e. C37 Me, C38 Me, C38 Et, and C39 Et) with double‐bond positions at Δ14, 21, 28. The hydrogen isotope compositions (δ2H, VSMOW) of the tri‐unsaturated positional isomers from C37 Me and C38 Et were slightly depleted (~ −11 ‰) relative to the common tri‐unsaturated alkenone. The carbon isotope composition (δ13C, VPDB) of the tri‐unsaturated positional isomers from the C37 Me, C38 Me, C38 Et, and C39 Et alkenones were significantly enriched (~ +4 ‰) relative to the common alkenones (di‐, tri‐, and tetra‐unsaturated).

Conclusions

The novel tri‐unsaturated alkenone positional isomers produced by the Greenland haptophyte possess Δ14, 21, 28 double‐bond positions, instead of the common Δ7, 14, 21 double‐bond positions. The hydrogen isotope values suggest the novel tri‐unsaturated positional isomers could be biosynthetic precursors to the tetra‐unsaturated alkenones (Δ7, 14, 21, 28). However, the significantly higher carbon isotope values of the tri‐unsaturated positional isomers relative to the common di‐, tri‐ and tetra‐unsaturated alkenones suggest these positional isomers may have different/additional biosynthetic precursors. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of Porapak™ trap temperature on δ18O, δ13C, and Δ47 values in preparing samples for clumped isotope analysis
Authors: Petersen Sierra V. , Winkelstern Ian Z. , Lohmann Kyger C. , Meyer Kyle W.
Published: December 2015

Rationale

The clumped isotope paleothermometer, a new proxy widely applicable in studies of paleoclimate, tectonics, and paleontology, relates the abundance of doubly substituted isotopologues of carbonate‐derived CO2 to the temperature of formation of the carbonate phase. As this technique becomes more widely used, more is discovered about the effects of everyday laboratory procedures on the clumped isotopic composition of CO2 gas.

Methods

Preparation of CO2 for clumped isotope analysis requires the removal of isobaric contaminants prior to measurement, achieved dynamically by passing the CO2 through a gas chromatography column using a helium carrier gas or cryogenically pumping CO2 through a static trap filled with Porapak™ Q (PPQ) material. The stable and clumped isotopic compositions of carbonate standards prepared at PPQ trap temperatures between −40°C and −10°C were measured by isotope ratio mass spectrometry to evaluate potential artifacts introduced by the static PPQ trap method.

Results

The stable isotopic composition of carbonates run at temperatures below −20°C was fractionated, despite achieving >99% retrieval of gas at temperatures as cold as −30°C. The δ13C and δ18O values decreased by ~0.01 and ~0.03 ‰/(°C below −20°C). The raw Δ47 values decreased by 0.003–0.005 ‰/(°C below −20°C), but the final reference‐frame‐corrected values (Δ47‐RFAC) were unaffected as long as the carbonate samples and standard gases were prepared identically.

Conclusions

Preparing carbonate samples for clumped isotope analysis using a PPQ trap that is too cold can result in erroneous stable isotopic compositions. New and existing labs using the static PPQ trap cleaning procedure should determine the ideal PPQ trap temperature for their particular system through monitoring not only yield through the PPQ trap, but also stable isotopic composition at various PPQ trap temperatures. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive chatter mitigation control for machining processes with input saturations
Authors: Wu Yue , Zhang Hai‐Tao , Huang Tao , Zhao Huan , Ding Han
Published: December 2015

Chatter is an unstable nonlinear dynamical phenomenon often encountered in machining operations because of the self‐excitation mechanism, which may lead to overcut or rapid tool wear, and hence, greatly influence the surface quality and productivity in milling operations. Recent years have witnessed an increasing industrial demand of high quality and high efficiency machining. This paper hereby develops a constrained active adaptive control method to mitigate the chatter dynamics with input saturations. To guarantee the feasibility of the proposed approach, moderate stable conditions of the closed‐loop system are afterwards derived by using the LaSalle–Yoshizawa theorem as well. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to show the substantially enlarged stable region in the Lobe Diagram. Thus, the method can be expected to improve the efficiency of milling processes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.