bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Follicle‐Stimulating Hormone β‐Subunit Potentiates Bone Morphogenetic Protein 9‐Induced Osteogenic Differentiation in Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts
Authors: Su Xiao‐Ya , Zou Xiang , Chen Qian‐Zhao , Zeng Yu‐Hua , Shao Ying , He Bai‐Cheng , Liu Hong
Published: December 2016

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP)‐related fractures usually result in morbidity and mortality in aging women, so it remains a global public health concern, and new effective safe treatments are urgently needed recently. Efficient osteogenesis from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) would have the clinical application potential in treating multiple osteal disorders. Follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), a pituitary glycoprotein hormone highly associated with menopausal bone turnover, whose peculiar part of receptor binding is follicle‐stimulating hormone β‐subunit (FSHβ). Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9), a potent osteogenic factor, can up‐regulate FSHβ in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). However, it is unclear, whether extrapituitary FSHβ affects BMP9‐induced osteogenesis in MEFs. In this study, we investigated the role of FSHβ in BMP9‐induced osteogenesis in MEFs. We found that exogenous expression of FSHβ significantly increased BMP9‐induced alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP), the expression of osteogenic transcriptional factors, Runx2 and Osx, and the established late osteogenic markers, osteopontin (OPN) and osteocalcin (OCN), so does the ectopic bone formation. Mechanistically, FSHβ dramatically enhanced BMP9‐induced BMP/Smad signal transduction, presenting the augment phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8, whereas treatment with anti‐FSHβ antibodies suppressed these effects. An adenylate cyclase inhibitor obviously suppressed ALP and BMP/Smad signal transduction induced by BMP9 or the combination of BMP9 and FSHβ in MEFs. Collectively, our findings suggested that FSHβ may promote BMP9‐induced activation of BMP/Smad signaling through a FSH/FSH receptor (FSHR)/cAMP dependent pathway in MEFs partly. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 1792–1802, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tolerogenic probiotics: potential immunoregulators in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Esmaeili Seyed‐Alireza , Mahmoudi Mahmoud , Momtazi Amir Abbas , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Doulabi Hassan , Rastin Maryam
Published: December 2016

Probiotics are commensal or nonpathogenic microbes that colonize the gastrointestinal tract and confer beneficial effects on the host through several mechanisms such as competitive exclusion, anti‐bacterial effects, and modulation of immune responses. There is growing evidence supporting the immunomodulatory ability of some probiotics. Several experimental and clinical studies have been shown beneficial effect of some probiotic bacteria, particularlyLactobacillusandBifidobacteriastrains, on inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that is mainly characterized by immune intolerance towards self‐antigens. Some immunomodulatory probiotics have been found to regulate immune responses via tolerogenic mechanisms. Dendritic and T regulatory (Treg) cells, IL‐6, IFN‐γ, IL‐17, and IL‐23 can be considered as the most determinant dysregulated mediators in tolerogenic status. As demonstrated by documented experimental and clinical trials on inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, a number of probiotic bacterial strains can restore tolerance in host through modification of such dysregulated mediators. Since there are limited reports regarding to impact of probiotic supplementation in SLE patients, the preset review was aimed to suggest a number of probiotics bacteria, mainly fromBifidobacteriaandLactobacillusstrains that are able to ameliorate immune responses. The aim was followed through literature survey on immunoregulatory probiotics that can restore tolerance and also modulate the important dysregulated pro/anti‐inflammatory cytokines contributing to the pathogenesis of SLE.
Biological and pharmacological evaluation of dimethoxycurcumin: A metabolically stable curcumin analogue with a promising therapeutic potential
Authors: Teymouri Manouchehr , Barati Nastaran , Pirro Matteo , Sahebkar Amirhosein
Published: December 2016

Dimethoxycurcumin (DiMC) is a synthetic analog of curcumin with superior inter‐related pro‐oxidant and anti‐cancer activity, and metabolic stability. Numerous studies have shown that DiMC reserves the biologically beneficial features, including anti‐inflammatory, anti‐carcinogenic, and cytoprotective properties, almost to the same extent as curcumin exhibits. DiMC lacks the phenolic‐OH groups as opposed to curcumin, dimethoxycurcumin, and bis‐demethoxycurcumin that all vary in the number of methoxy groups per molecule, and has drawn the attentions of researchers who attempted to discover the structure‐activity relationship (SAR) of curcumin. In this regard, tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), the reduced and biologically inert metabolite of curcumin, denotes the significance of the conjugated α,β diketone moiety for the curcumin activity. DiMC exerts unique molecular activities compared to curcumin, including induction of androgen receptor (AR) degradation and suppression of the transcription factor activator protein‐1 (AP‐1). The enhanced AR degradation on DiMC treatment suggests it as a novel anticancer agent against resistant tumors with androgenic etiology. Further, DiMC might be a potential treatment for acne vulgaris. DiMC induces epigenetic alteration more effectively than curcumin, although both showed no direct DNA hypomethylating activity. Given the metabolic stability, nanoparticulation of DiMC is more promising for in vivo effectiveness. However, studies in this regard are still in its infancy. In the current review, we portray the various molecular and biological functions of DiMC reported so far. Whenever possible, the efficiency is compared with curcumin and the reasons for DiMC being more metabolically stable are elaborated. We also provide future perspective investigations with respect to varying DiMC‐nanoparticles.
pH‐Modulating Poly(ethylene glycol)/Alginate Hydrogel Dressings for the Treatment of Chronic Wounds
Authors: Koehler Julia , Wallmeyer Leonie , Hedtrich Sarah , Goepferich Achim M. , Brandl Ferdinand P.
Published: December 2016

The development of chronic wounds has been frequently associated with alkaline pH values. The application of pH‐modulating wound dressings can, therefore, be a promising treatment option to promote normal wound healing. This study reports on the development and characterization of acidic hydrogel dressings based on interpenetrating poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate/acrylic acid/alginate networks. The incorporation of ionizable carboxylic acid groups results in high liquid uptake up to 500%. The combination of two separate polymer networks significantly improves the tensile and compressive stability. In a 2D cell migration assay, the application of hydrogels (0% to 1.5% acrylic acid) results in complete “wound” closure; hydrogels with 0.25% acrylic acid significantly increase the cell migration velocity to 19.8 ± 1.9 µm h−1. The most promising formulation (hydrogels with 0.25% acrylic acid) is tested on 3D human skin constructs, increasing keratinocyte ingrowth into the wound by 164%.

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Communicating a Key Benefit Claim Creatively and Effectively through Five Conveyor Properties
Authors: Althuizen Niek
Published: December 2016

In today's clutter of marketing communications, creative advertisements are capable of grabbing the viewers’ attention with the aim of conveying the product's key benefit claim (KBC). A proven technique for drawing attention to an ad and communicating a KBC is the use of a “remote conveyor” that is seemingly unrelated to the product (e.g., a dolphin and a sports watch for conveying its waterproofness). Drawing on associative memory theory, this article investigates the potentially antagonistic relationship between five “curiosity‐raising” (originality) and “benefit‐conveying” (effectiveness) properties of a sample of 167 conveyors for communicating the KBC of four different products. The conveyors were generated in a nominal brainstorming session with 20 MBA students. This article also provides real‐life examples to illustrate the role of the five conveyor properties in getting across the message creatively and effectively. Creatives and do‐it‐yourself advertisers alike can easily apply the outlined procedure for generating and selecting conveyors.
The Effects of Physical Distance from a Brand Extension on the Impact of Brand‐Extension Fit
Authors: Huang Yunhui , Jia Yanli , Wyer Robert S.
Published: December 2016

Three experiments show that if a brand extension provides a close fit to the parent brand, consumers evaluate it more favorably when they perceive themselves to be close to a picture of the extension than when they do not. If the extension is a poor fit to the parent, however, the reverse is true. These effects are driven by a match between consumers’ feelings of closeness to the extension information and the extension's closeness to the parent. This match leads them to process the extension information more fluently and consequently to generate a more favorable evaluation of the extension.
Conceptual Advances in Consumers’ Semantic and Episodic Brand Memories: A Mixed Methods Exploration
Authors: Herz Marc , Brunk Katja H.
Published: December 2016

Consumers strongly rely on their memories and experiences during their decision‐making processes. Yet, despite empirical evidence that both semantic and episodic brand memories affect consumer behavior, literature on their distinction and differential impact is scarce. This empirical investigation seeks to reduce this imbalance by enhancing the understanding of these consumer knowledge structures. Using a mixed methods approach including a collage technique and one‐to‐one interviews (N = 118) consisting of open‐ended and closed‐ended (survey) elements and a subsequent content analysis, this research (1) explores differences in memory between brand users and nonusers, (2) evaluates the distinct impact of semantic and episodic memories on brand perceptions, and (3) presents a taxonomy of the principal domains of semantic and episodic brand memories and their implications for brand management. The article concludes by discussing theoretical, methodological, and managerial implications, as well as opening new avenues for future research directed at understanding and managing consumers’ semantic and episodic brand memories.
A Simplified Fe‐Based PhotoATRP Using Only Monomers and Solvent
Authors: Pan Xiangcheng , Malhotra Nikhil , Dadashi‐Silab Sajjad , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: December 2016

A photoinduced atom transfer radical polymerization (photoATRP) of methacrylates is investigated using air‐stable FeBr3 as catalyst in the absence of conventional ATRP initiators, additional ligands, reducing agents, and/or radical initiators. The ATRP alkyl halide initiator is formed in situ via photoreduction of FeBr3 by methacrylate monomers. The kinetics of the polymerization display a linear semilogarithmic plot after several hours of induction period. The molecular weight can be modulated by additions of different amounts of FeBr3, and polymers have narrow molecular weight distributions. Thus, FeBr3 acts as deactivator, as well as a source of activator FeBr2 and initiator. This method features a temporal control, and can provide various polymethacrylates with high chain end functionality.

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Metagenomic profiling of gut microbial communities in both wild and artificially reared Bar‐headed goose (Anser indicus)
Authors: Wang Wen , Zheng Sisi , Sharshov Kirill , Sun Hao , Yang Fang , Wang Xuelian , Li Laixing , Xiao Zhixiong
Published: December 2016

Bar‐headed goose (Anser indicus), a species endemic to Asia, has become one of the most popular species in recent years for rare bird breeding industries in several provinces of China. There has been no information on the gut metagenome configuration in both wild and artificially reared Bar‐headed geese, even though the importance of gut microbiome in vertebrate nutrient and energy metabolism, immune homeostasis and reproduction is widely acknowledged. In this study, metagenomic methods have been used to describe the microbial community structure and composition of functional genes associated with both wild and artificially reared Bar‐headed goose. Taxonomic analyses revealed that Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes were the four most abundant phyla in the gut of Bar‐headed geese. Bacteroidetes were significantly abundant in the artificially reared group compared to wild group. Through functional profiling, we found that artificially reared Bar‐headed geese had higher bacterial gene content related to carbohydrate transport and metabolism, energy metabolism and coenzyme transport, and metabolism. A comprehensive gene catalog of Bar‐headed geese metagenome was built, and the metabolism of carbohydrate, amino acid, nucleotide, and energy were found to be the four most abundant categories. These results create a baseline for future Bar‐headed goose microbiology research, and make an original contribution to the artificial rearing of this bird.
The protein interacting with carboxyl terminus‐1 codon 389 polymorphism impairs protein interacting with carboxyl terminus‐1 function and is a risk factor for uterine cervical cancer
Authors: Yoshimoto Masafumi , Tokuda Aoi , Nishiwaki Kunihiko , Sengoku Kazuo , Yaginuma Yuji
Published: December 2016

PICT‐1 is a nucleolar protein with various tumor suppressor functions. Recently, PICT‐1 expression was reported to be dramatically reduced in several cancers. To investigate the role of PICT‐1 in uterine cervical carcinogenesis, we examined its gene mutations, protein expression, cellular localization, and effect on p53 stabilization. PCR‐SSCP analysis of the entire coding region of PICT‐1 showed that a polymorphism at codon 389 may increase the risk of uterine cervical cancers, and also identified a novel missense mutation. Expression of wild‐type PICT‐1 inhibited the degradation of p53 in the presence or absence of HPV 18 E6 viral protein in vitro, while the expression of codon 389 polymorphic PICT‐1 had a diminished inhibitory effect on p53 degradation. Moreover, we observed that PICT‐1 degradation was induced both independently and cooperatively by E6 and E7 proteins from high‐risk HPVs, but only marginal degradation was observed with proteins from low‐risk HPV. Immunohistochemical staining of tumor samples revealed that lower levels of PICT‐1 were observed in samples from CIN III and cervical cancer tissues, compared to normal cervical epithelium and CIN I, II tissues (P < 0.05). The reduction of PICT‐1 may therefore be an early event in uterine cervical tumorigenesis. Our results indicated that PICT‐1 counteracts HPV‐induced p53 degradation and that aberrant PICT‐1 function may contribute towards inactivating p53. Therefore, PICT‐1 may play a critical role during the pathogenesis of uterine cervical cancers.
Evaluating global reanalysis precipitation datasets with rain gauge measurements in the Sudano‐Sahel region: case study of the Logone catchment, Lake Chad Basin
Authors: Nkiaka E. , Nawaz N. R. , Lovett J. C.
Published: December 2016

ABSTRACT

Africa has a paucity of long term reliable meteorological ground station data and reanalysis products are used to provide the climate estimations that are important for climate change projections. In this paper monthly observed precipitation records in the Logone catchment of the Lake Chad Basin are used to evaluate the performance of two global reanalysis products: the Climate Forecasting System Reanalysis (CFSR) and ERA Interim datasets.

The two reanalysis products reproduced the monthly, annual and decadal cycle of precipitation and variability relatively accurately albeit with some discrepancies. The catchment rainfall gradient was also well captured by the two products. There are good correlations between the reanalysis and rain gauge datasets although significant deviations exist, especially for CFSR. Both reanalysis products overestimated rainfall in 68% of the rain gauge stations. ERA Interim produced the lowest bias and mean absolute error with average values of 2% and 6.5 mm month−1 respectively compared to 15% and 34 mm month−1 for the CFSR. However, both reanalysis products systematically underestimated annual rainfall in the catchment during the period 1997–2002 for ERA Interim and 1998–2000 for CFSR. This research demonstrates that evaluating reanalysis products in remote areas like the Logone catchment enables users to identify artefacts inherent in reanalysis datasets. This will facilitate improvements in certain aspects of the reanalysis forecast model physics and parameterization to improve reanalysis dataset quality.

This study concludes that the application of each reanalysis product in the catchment will depend on the purpose for which it is to be used and the spatial scale required.
Constitutional de novo and postzygotic mutations in isolated cases of cerebral cavernous malformations
Authors: Rath Matthias , Spiegler Stefanie , Nath Neetika , Schwefel Konrad , Di Donato Nataliya , Gerber Johannes , Korenke G. Christoph , Hellenbroich Yorck , Hehr Ute , Gross Stephanie , Sure Ulrich , Zoll Barbara , Gilberg Eberhard , Kaderali Lars , Felbor Ute
Published: December 2016

Background

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) are vascular lesions of the central nervous system that can be found in sporadic or autosomal dominantly inherited forms and manifest with headaches, seizures, and hemorrhagic stroke. The precise proportion of de novo mutations in the CCM1, CCM2, and CCM3 genes remains unknown.

Methods

We here present a series of six trios with de novo mutations that have been analyzed by amplicon deep sequencing to differentiate between constitutional and postzygotic mutations.

Results

In one case, allelic ratios clearly indicated mosaicism for a CCM3 splice site mutation found in blood and buccal mucosa of a 2‐year‐old boy with multiple CCMs. The remaining five de novo mutations proved to be constitutional. In addition to three CCM3, two CCM1, and one CCM2 de novo point mutations, a deletion of the entire CCM3 gene was identified in an index case that most likely originated from an early postzygotic event. These are the first high‐level mosaic mutations reported in blood samples of isolated CCM cases.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that de novo mutations in CCM1‐3 might be more frequent than previously thought. Furthermore, amplicon deep sequencing is useful to discriminate between patients with constitutional and postzygotic mutations, and thereby improves genetic counseling.
Electrophysiological and neuromuscular stability of persons with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Gilmore Kevin J. , Allen Matti D. , Doherty Timothy J. , Kimpinski Kurt , Rice Charles L.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

We assessed motor unit (MU) properties and neuromuscular stability in the tibialis anterior (TA) of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) patients using decomposition‐based quantitative electromyography.

Methods

Dorsiflexion strength was assessed, and surface and concentric needle electromyography were sampled from the TA. Estimates of MU numbers were derived using decomposition‐based quantitative electromyography and spike‐triggered averaging. Neuromuscular transmission stability was assessed from concentric needle‐detected MU potentials.

Results

CIDP patients had 43% lower compound muscle action potential amplitude than controls, and despite near‐maximum voluntary activation, were 37% weaker. CIDP had 27% fewer functioning MUs in the TA, and had 90% and 44% higher jiggle and jitter values, respectively compared with controls.

Conclusions

CIDP had lower strength and compound muscle action potential values, moderately fewer numbers of MUs, and significant neuromuscular instability compared with controls. Thus, in addition to muscle atrophy, voluntary weakness is also due to limitations of peripheral neural transmission consistent with demyelination. Muscle Nerve 56: 413–420, 2017
Exploring the potential of boronic acids as inhibitors of OXA‐24/40 β‐lactamase
Authors: Werner Josephine P. , Mitchell Joshua M. , Taracila Magdalena A. , Bonomo Robert A. , Powers Rachel A.
Published: December 2016

β‐lactam antibiotics are crucial to the management of bacterial infections in the medical community. Due to overuse and misuse, clinically significant bacteria are now resistant to many commercially available antibiotics. The most widespread resistance mechanism to β‐lactams is the expression of β‐lactamase enzymes. To overcome β‐lactamase mediated resistance, inhibitors were designed to inactivate these enzymes. However, current inhibitors (clavulanic acid, tazobactam, and sulbactam) for β‐lactamases also contain the characteristic β‐lactam ring, making them susceptible to resistance mechanisms employed by bacteria. This presents a critical need for novel, non‐β‐lactam inhibitors that can circumvent these resistance mechanisms. The carbapenem‐hydrolyzing class D β‐lactamases (CHDLs) are of particular concern, given that they efficiently hydrolyze potent carbapenem antibiotics. Unfortunately, these enzymes are not inhibited by clinically available β‐lactamase inhibitors, nor are they effectively inhibited by the newest, non‐β‐lactam inhibitor, avibactam. Boronic acids are known transition state analog inhibitors of class A and C β‐lactamases, and are not extensively characterized as inhibitors of class D β‐lactamases. Importantly, boronic acids provide a novel way to potentially inhibit class D β‐lactamases. Sixteen boronic acids were selected and tested for inhibition of the CHDL OXA‐24/40. Several compounds were identified as effective inhibitors of OXA‐24/40, with Ki values as low as 5 μM. The X‐ray crystal structures of OXA‐24/40 in complex with BA3, BA4, BA8, and BA16 were determined and revealed the importance of interactions with hydrophobic residues Tyr112 and Trp115. These boronic acids serve as progenitors in optimization efforts of a novel series of inhibitors for class D β‐lactamases.
Comparative study of surgical knots using a domestically produced Chinese surgical robot, laparoscope, or barehanded approach
Authors: Song Zhi , Wang Guo‐hui , Sun Lin‐li , Yi Bo , Li Zheng , Zhu Shai‐hong
Published: December 2016

Background

We conducted a comparative analysis of the first domestically produced Chinese surgical robot, ‘MicroHand’, laparoscopic, and barehanded approaches in tying surgical knots.

Methods

Four surgeons performed square or triple knots individually using the three approaches and documented the operational time, circumference, the bearable tension and action trajectory for each knot.

Results

MicroHand took more time than the barehanded method but nearly the same as with the laparoscope. The barehanded method generated the smallest knots among the three approaches and MicroHand produced smaller square knots than those by laparoscope. MicroHand and barehanded methods produced square knots displaying higher bearable tension than those produced by the laparoscope. For the action trajectory, MicroHand operated in a smaller space than that needed by the laparoscope.

Conclusions

The square knots produced by MicroHand were tighter and more solid than those by laparoscope, although the triple knots generated by the two methods were similar. Also MicroHand required a smaller operational space than the laparoscope.
The Effects of Academic Incubators on University Innovation
Authors: Kolympiris Christos , Klein Peter G.
Published: December 2016

Research summary

In this article, we analyze the impact of academic incubators on the quality of innovations produced by U.S. research‐intensive academic institutions. We show that establishing a university‐affiliated incubator is followed by a reduction in the quality of university innovations. The conclusion holds when we control for the endogeneity of the decision to establish an incubator using the presence of incubators at peer institutions as an instrument. We also document a reduction in licensing income following the establishment of an incubator. The results suggest that university incubators compete for resources with technology transfer offices and other campus programs and activities, such that the useful outputs they generate can be partially offset by reductions in innovation elsewhere.

Managerial summary

Do university incubators drain resources from other university efforts to generate innovations with commercial relevance? Our analysis suggests that they do: after research‐intensive U.S. universities establish incubators, the quality of university innovations, which we measure with patents, drops. This finding has immediate implications for practice, as it suggests that the benefits and costs of incubation should not be analyzed in isolation. Rather, the effects of incubators extend to the overall innovation performance of the university. It follows that measuring the net economic effect of incubators is challenging because besides the effects on innovation efforts, the presence of an incubator may attract particular kinds of faculty and students, enhance the prestige of the university, generate economic multiplier effects, and benefit the community as a whole. Copyright © 2016 Strategic Management Society.
Fabrication of urchin‐like Ag/ZnO hierarchical nano/microstructures based on galvanic replacement mechanism and their enhanced photocatalytic properties
Authors: Zeng Chunyan , Yuan Li , Li Xuefei , Gao Chen , Wang Hong
Published: December 2016

Urchin‐like Ag/ZnO hierarchical nano/microstructures have been synthesized through a facile low‐temperature hydrothermal growth method based on galvanic replacement mechanism. The experimental results show that the urchin‐like Ag/ZnO heterostructures are formed through the epitaxial growth of ZnO nanorods on the {111} facets of Ag nanoparticles along their own c‐axis. The photocatalytic properties of the products were evaluated by the degradation of RhB dye solution under ultraviolet irradiation, and the results show that the products exhibit significantly enhanced photocatalytic properties comparing with pure ZnO nanorods. The products with a Ag content of 35.64 atom % prepared with a Ag+ concentration in solution of 5 mM exhibit surprisingly high degradation rate (99.5%) for RhB dye solution (4 mg/L) after photocatalytic reaction for only 14 min under ultraviolet irradiation. The Schottky barrier formed at the metal‐semiconductor interfaces improves the segregation of charges and prevents the charge recombination, and thus significantly enhances the photocatalytic activities of the products. On the other hand, the high stability of the urchin‐like Ag/ZnO hierarchical nano/microstructures can effectively prevent the aggregation of nanostructures with simultaneously preserving high photocatalytic properties due to the existence of nanosized unites. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Flexible Web‐Based Approach to Modeling Tandem Photocatalytic Devices
Authors: Seger Brian , Hansen Ole , Vesborg Peter C. K.
Published: December 2016

There have been several works modeling the optimal band gaps for tandem photocatalytic water splitting devices under different assumptions. Due to the many parameters involved, it is impossible for the authors to consider every conceivable situation. In this work, we have developed a web‐based model (WBM) that allows users to input data such as photoabsorber diode parameters, catalytic losses, ionic losses, light concentration, etc. This program also adds a new parameter that allows one to balance the photon absorption distribution between both photoabsorbers in a tandem device (by thinning the top photoabsorber), thus allowing for a broader range of band gap combinations that can still provide highly efficient devices. While this does not change the overall maximum efficiency point, at certain band gap combinations balancing the photon absorption distribution between photoabsorbers can increase Solar to Hydrogen (STH) efficiency by up to 15% points. An additional feature of the WBM is that it allows users to upload data of a single photoelectrode, and then investigate the optimal matching photoabsorber band gap to maximize tandem device efficiency. This work analyzes some of the best previous experimental photoelectrodes, and quantitatively relates their performance to what would typically be expected via modeling programs.
Chiral Lithium Amides: Tuning Asymmetric Synthesis on the Basis of Structural Parameters
Authors: Harrison‐Marchand Anne , Barozzino‐Consiglio Gabriella , Maddaluno Jacques
Published: December 2016

An overview on the structural arrangements adopted by Chiral Lithium Amides (CLAs), alone or in mixed complexes, is presented. These species are important reagents for asymmetric synthesis and understanding their organization is essential to improve their design and the reaction conditions.
Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography in Intensive Care Unit Patients with Acute Clinical Deterioration: Impact of Hyperattenuating Adrenal Glands
Authors: Boos Johannes , Schek Julia , Kröpil Patric , Heusch Philipp , Heinzler Niklas , Antoch Gerald , Lanzman Rotem Shlomo
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The study sought to assess the frequency and prognostic value of hyperattenuating adrenal glands on contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans of surgical intensive care unit (ICU) patients with acute clinical deterioration.

Methods

Eighty-eight consecutive ICU patients (63.2 ± 14.5 years of age) were included in this retrospective analysis. All patients underwent biphasic contrast-enhanced CT due to an acute clinical deterioration. Hyperattenuation of the adrenal glands was assessed subjectively and objectively. Subjective presence or absence of hyperattenuating adrenal glands was assessed by 2 blinded radiologists (J.B. and R.S.L.) in consensus. Hounsfield units (HU) were measured in the adrenal glands and in the inferior vena cava. Objective hyperattenuation was defined as HU (adrenal glands) > HU (inferior vena cava) with a 15-HU threshold. Death within 14 days following CT was set as endpoint and acquired from electronic patient data.

Results

Thirty-eight patients (43.2%, Group Asubj) exhibited hyperattenuation of the adrenal glands, whereas 50 patients (56.8%, Group Bsubj) did not. Concerning the objective analysis, 31 patients (35.2%, Group Aobj) exhibited hyperdense adrenal glands, whereas 53 patients (64.8%, Group Bobj) did not. Overall 27 of 88 patients (30.6%) died within 14 days following the CT examination. Lethal outcome was significantly more frequent among patients in Group Asubj and Aobj (19 of 38 patients [50.0%] and 15 of 31 patients [48.4%]) as compared with patients in Group Bsubj (8 of 50 patients [16.0%]) and Group Bobj (12 of 57 patients [21.1%]; P < .05). Subjective and objective analysis correlated significantly ( P < .05).

Conclusions

Hyperattenuation of adrenal glands on contrast-enhanced CT of ICU patients with acute clinical deterioration is associated with a high mortality and might serve as a prognostic marker for patients' outcome.
The importance and strategy of diabetes prevention
Authors: Shi Bing‐Yin
Published: December 2016

Diabetes has become one of the largest public health problems to date. Decreased physical activity, overnutrition, and nutrition transitions caused by changes in lifestyle contribute to the increasing incidence of chronic metabolic diseases as well as deaths related to them. The shift from undernutrition to overnutrition indicates that chronic diseases of affluence have become a public health problem; hence, sustainable health‐related goals have been developed for the prevention of these diseases. Environmental factors and the gut microbiota influence metabolism in the human body. Several studies have proven that lifestyle interventions can effectively deter the progression of diabetes in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance. If the window of prevention is shifted earlier, diabetes may become a fortuitous event. Effective prevention needs high attention from the government and the participation of all citizens. Concrete scientific and reasonable measures also need to be developed by experts and scholars.
Validation of Clinical Tools for Vaginal and Vulvar Symptom Assessment in Cancer Patients and Survivors
Authors: Eaton Anne A. , Baser Raymond E. , Seidel Barbara , Stabile Cara , Canty Jocelyn P. , Goldfrank Deborah J. , Carter Jeanne
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Health care professionals can play a pivotal role in promoting vulvovaginal health through assessment and appropriate intervention.

Aim

To develop and validate brief clinical measurements to facilitate the identification of vulvovaginal symptoms in patients with and survivors of cancer.

Methods

One hundred seventy-five women survivors of cancer attending a Female Sexual Medicine and Women's Health Program from September 26, 2012 through October 31, 2014 completed the Vaginal Assessment Scale (VAS) and the Vulvar Assessment Scale (VuAS)—a modified version of the VAS that targets vulvar symptoms. Pelvic examination results were recorded using a clinical examination checklist.

Main Outcome Measures

Internal consistency of the two scales was assessed using Cronbach α, and the correlation between scales and other outcomes was reported.

Results

The internal consistency measurements of the VAS and VuAS at the first visit were 0.70 and 0.68, which decreased to 0.53 and 0.66 at the last visit. The VAS composite and VuAS composite scores were moderately correlated with each other (0.42 and 0.45 at first and last visits, respectively). A strong correlation was observed between VAS pain with intercourse and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) pain with intercourse (−0.63 and −0.71 at the first and last visits, respectively). Worse pain with examination, worse functioning on the FSFI pain, lubrication, and total scores, and worse vulvar irritation were correlated with more severe symptoms on the VAS and VuAS.

Conclusion

The VAS and VuAS are simple tools that can be used by clinicians to assess health concerns in women diagnosed with and treated for cancer. Validation is needed across diverse settings and groups of women.
A CULTURE OF KINSHIP: CHINESE GENEALOGIES AS A SOURCE FOR RESEARCH IN DEMOGRAPHIC ECONOMICS–CORRIGENDUM
Authors: Shiue Carol H.
Published: December 2016

On page 476 of the text, in the second paragraph it states: “In comparison, the percent of individuals who can be linked in the Chinese Eight Banner Registers is 14.54% or 24.76% for one generation, depending on whether one considers Liaoning or Heilongjiang Province [Dong et al. (2015)].” This should instead read: “In comparison, the percent of individuals who can't be linked in the Chinese Eight Banner Registers is 14.54% or 24.76% for one generation, depending on whether one considers Liaoning or Heilongjiang Province [Dong et al. (2015)].”

The authors apologise for this error.
A Comparison of Administrative Data Versus Surveillance Data for Hospital-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections in Canadian Hospitals
Authors: Ramirez Mendoza Jessica Y. , Daneman Nick , Elias Mary N. , Amuah Joseph E. , Bush Kathryn , Couris Chantal M. , Leeb Kira
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND

In Canadian hospitals, clinical information is coded according to national coding standards and is routinely collected as administrative data. Administrative data may complement active surveillance programs by providing in-hospital MRSA infection data in a standardized and efficient manner, but only if infections are accurately captured.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the accuracy of administrative data regarding in-hospital bloodstream infections (BSIs) and all-body-site infections due to MRSA.

METHODS

A retrospective study of all (adult and pediatric) in-hospital MRSA infections was conducted by comparing administrative data against surveillance data from 217 acute Canadian hospitals (124 in Ontario, 93 in Alberta) over a 12-month period. Hospital-associated MRSA BSI cases in Ontario, and for all-body-site MRSA infections in Alberta were identified. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to compare the number of hospital-level MRSA cases within administrative versus surveillance datasets. The correlation of all-body-site MRSA infections versus MRSA BSIs was also assessed using the Ontario administrative data.

RESULTS

Strong correlations between hospital-level MRSA cases in administrative and surveillance datasets were identified for Ontario (r=0.79; 95% CI, 0.72–0.85) and Alberta (r=0.92; 95% CI, 0.88–0.94). A strong correlation between all-body-site and bloodstream-only MRSA infection rates was identified across Ontario hospitals (r=0.95; P<.0001; 95% CI, 0.93–0.96).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides good evidence of the comparability of administrative and surveillance datasets in identifying in-hospital MRSA infections. With standard definitions, administrative data can provide estimates of in-hospital infections for monitoring and/or comparisons across hospitals.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:436–443
Middle Cambrian trilobites from the Ekspedition Bræ Formation of North Greenland, with a reappraisal of the genusElrathina
Authors: Geyer Gerd , Peel John S.
Published: December 2016

The richly fossiliferous Ekspedition Bræ Formation of North Greenland yields a typical oligospecific fossil assemblage with well-preserved trilobites, helcionelloids, and lingulate brachiopods. The trilobites includeItagnostus subhastatusnew species,Itagnostussp. cf.I.gaspensis(Rasetti, 1948),Elrathina aphroditenew species,Elrathina athenanew species,Elrathina heranew species, andElrathia groenlandicanew species—a fossil assemblage typical of theBathyuriscus-ElrathinaZone as known from the Cordilleran regions of Laurentia. Excellent preservation allows a detailed assessment of the prosopon and elucidates aspects of the ontogenetic development ofElrathinaandElrathia. An evaluation ofElrathinaincludes a redescription of its type species,E.cordillerae(Rominger, 1887), based on the type material, and indicates that most specimens collected from the Burgess Shale and previously dealt with asE.cordilleraerepresent a new species.
Effect of threonine deficiency on intestinal integrity and immune response to feed withdrawal combined with coccidial vaccine challenge in broiler chicks
Authors: Zhang Qian , Chen Xi , Eicher Susan D. , Ajuwon Kolapo M. , Applegate Todd J.
Published: December 2016

For this study, threonine (Thr) deficiency was hypothesised to exacerbate the intestinal damage induced by feed withdrawal with coccidial infection because of its high obligatory requirement by the gut; two dietary Thr treatments (0·49 and 0·90 %) were applied to chicks from 0 to 21 d of age. At 13 d of age, feed was withdrawn for 24 h from one-half of birds of each dietary treatment with subsequent gavage of a 25× dose of coccidial vaccine. Overall, there were four treatments with eight replicate cages per treatment. Under combined challenge, birds fed the Thr-deficient diet had 38 % lower 13–21-d body weight gain (P≤0·05) compared with birds fed the Thr-control diet. At 21 d, the challenged group fed low Thr had higher number of oocysts (+40 %,P=0·03) and lower crypt depth (−31 %,P<0·01). In addition, birds fed the low-Thr diet had higher gut permeability as measured after 2 h of administration of fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (3–5 kDa,P<0·01), which may be attributed to decreased IgA production (P=0·03) in the ileum. In caecal tonsils, the challenged group fed low Thr had lower CD3:Bu-1 ratio (P≤0·05), along with a tendency for lower CCR9 mRNA expression in birds fed the low-Thr diet (P=0·10). In addition, Thr deficiency tended to increase IL-10 mRNA expression regardless of infection (P=0·06), but did not change interferon-γmRNA expression upon coccidial infection (P>0·05). Overall, Thr deficiency worsened the detrimental effects of combined feed withdrawal and coccidial infection on growth performance and oocyst shedding by impairing intestinal morphology, barrier function, lymphocyte profiles and their cytokine expressions.
Diets high in resistant starch increase plasma levels of trimethylamine-N-oxide, a gut microbiome metabolite associated with CVD risk
Authors: Bergeron Nathalie , Williams Paul T. , Lamendella Regina , Faghihnia Nastaran , Grube Alyssa , Li Xinmin , Wang Zeneng , Knight Rob , Jansson Janet K. , Hazen Stanley L. , Krauss Ronald M.
Published: December 2016

Production of trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), a biomarker of CVD risk, is dependent on intestinal microbiota, but little is known of dietary conditions promoting changes in gut microbial communities. Resistant starches (RS) alter the human microbiota. We sought to determine whether diets varying in RS and carbohydrate (CHO) content affect plasma TMAO levels. We also assessed postprandial glucose and insulin responses and plasma lipid changes to diets high and low in RS. In a cross-over trial, fifty-two men and women consumed a 2-week baseline diet (41 percentage of energy (%E) CHO, 40 % fat, 19 % protein), followed by 2-week high- and low-RS diets separated by 2-week washouts. RS diets were assigned at random within the context of higher (51–53 %E)v. lower CHO (39–40 %E) intake. Measurements were obtained in the fasting state and, for glucose and insulin, during a meal test matching the composition of the assigned diet. With lower CHO intake, plasma TMAO, carnitine, betaine andγ-butyrobetaine concentrations were higher after the high-v. low-RS diet (P<0·01 each). These metabolites were not differentially affected by highv. low RS when CHO intake was high. Although the high-RS meal reduced postprandial insulin and glucose responses when CHO intake was low (P<0·01 each), RS did not affect fasting lipids, lipoproteins, glucose or insulin irrespective of dietary CHO content. In conclusion, a lower-CHO diet high in RS was associated with higher plasma TMAO levels. These findings, together with the absence of change in fasting lipids, suggest that short-term high-RS diets do not improve markers of cardiometabolic health.
Large-scale distribution of coccolithophores and Parmales in the surface waters of the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Luan Qingshan , Sun Jianqiang , Wang Jun
Published: December 2016

Coccolithophores and Parmales are important functional groups of calcified and siliceous marine nanophytoplankton. Large-scale biogeographic distributions of the two groups were investigated based on 71 samples that were collected in the Atlantic Ocean. Using a scanning electron microscope, a total of 48 taxa of coccolithophores and eight taxa of Parmales were recorded, withEmiliania huxleyi, Tetraparma pelagicaandTriparma strigataas the predominant forms. The highest abundances of coccolithophores (376 × 103cells l−1) and Parmales (624 × 103cells l−1) were observed in waters north-east of the Falkland Islands and the South Georgia Island, in close association with the Subantarctic Front and Polar Front, respectively. Three major biogeographic assemblages, i.e. the Falkland Shelf Assemblage, the Southern Ocean Assemblage and the Atlantic Ocean Assemblage, were revealed in cluster analysis. Additionally, canonical correspondence analysis indicated that temperature significantly affects the latitudinal patterns of the two algal groups. High abundances of Parmales were closely coupled with those ofE. huxleyiin waters of the Southern Ocean with low temperature (<10°C). However, the number of coccolithophore species, along with the Shannon–Weaver diversity, significantly increased with elevated temperature, suggesting more diverse assemblages in tropical waters.
Darmstadt 2016: the ‘Universal Mouth’
Authors: Jones Stephanie
Published: December 2016

In the preface to the 2016 International Summer Course for New Music programme booklet, the festival's artistic director, Thomas Schäfer, repeated a question that Irvine Arditti had put to him when they were discussing the Arditti Quartet's concerts: ‘shall we attack the future or dig up the past?’. This question, posed in order to establish some form of discursive framework for the course, became a subliminal trace throughout the festival. The participants' bags, for instance, were imprinted with the slogan, ‘attack the future’ and Schäfer ended his preface by stating, ‘let me call out to everyone involved, and to our audience: let's attack the future!’. The air of the festival itself, however, seemed slightly more reserved throughout its lengthy 17-day span. There were, of course, moments of theatrical flamboyance, such as Fantasises of Downfall (2015) by Johannes Kreidler, metalized void (2015/16) by Claus-Steffen Mahnkopf, The Lichtenberg Figures (2014/15) by Eva Reiter, Sideshow (2009/15) by Steven Kazuo Takasugi, EVERYTHING IS IMPORTANT (2015/16) by Jennifer Walshe, and Living Instruments (2015) by Serge Vuille. Yet, overall the atmosphere of the festival seemed to be one of quiet vigilance as events unfolded.
An Aldeburgh Festival Organ Crawl – Kit Downes and Tom Challenger – 23 June 2016
Authors: Sarsfield Donal
Published: December 2016

In the midst of the wealth of music available at this year's Aldeburgh Festival, a vintage bus tour around Snape of churches and their organs seemed an unlikely treat. Every church organ is designed for the same purpose – a sacred instrument of the liturgy to accompany congregational and choral singing and, occasionally, to blast from above – but each has a different personality.
Mobilization, Force, and the Politics of Transformation
Authors: Siegmund Gerald
Published: December 2016

This article focuses on Randy Martin's concept of mobilization and its relationship to Christoph Menke's philosophical category of force—being the grid rather than the movement, being the potential to move rather than movement in space and time, force and mobilization align. They are rallying calls for change and transformation, for different articulations of bodies and social kinesthetic energies. They both are impersonal nonsubjectified vehicles for an open process of doing and undoing, which is a political process.
Remobilizing Dance Studies
Authors: Giersdorf Jens Richard , Wong Yutian
Published: December 2016

This essay uses as its case study the reconstruction of an East German Vietnamese socialist folk dance Spring in Vietnam (1969) to reflect on Randy Martin's 1998 conviction that Dance Studies has the potential to embody and materialize solutions to intellectual and political issues that have been left out of other academic disciplines. Written as a play script, the essays performs a remobilization of Dance Studies and its potential to reflect on its disciplinary authority.
Dancing Economies Conference Welcome, February 2015
Authors: Blanco Borelli Melissa
Published: December 2016

This essay was used (in a previous form) as opening remarks for the United Kingdom's Society of Dance Research conference “Dancing Economies” in 2015. Structured around a collection of musings prompted by global issues, such as the Greek economic crisis, the Black Lives Matter movement, the European migrant crisis, and the pernicious effects of neoliberalism on the arts, the essay is my attempt to make connections between these events and the significance of dance studies in today's complicated political landscape.
For Randy
Authors: Finley Karen
Published: December 2016

In this personal essay, artist and professor Karen Finley reflects on her relationship with her colleague and mentor, Randy Martin
Slow-Walk: Climate as Volatility and Expansive Political Practice
Authors: Joseph May
Published: December 2016

A lone tree stands in the midst of a devastated landscape at Rikuzentakata, Japan. At Aceh, Malacca, a whole generation is washed out by the 2004 tsunami. At Beach 116, Far Rockaway, New York City, the entire street is swept away as the sea rolls in from the ocean toward the Jamaica Bay end of the avenue, built on a slope from ocean to bay on a barrier island. These scenes of climate volatility arouse in coastal communities a sense of vulnerability, of risk as a way of life. It is a daily choreography of uncertainty whose underlying structures shape the performance work of the movement-based theater company Harmattan Theater, which I started in 2009.