bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing an Irreversible Inhibitor of Human DDAH‐1, an Enzyme Upregulated in Melanoma
Authors: Wang Yun , Hu Shougang , Gabisi Abdul M. , Er Joyce A. V. , Pope Arthur , Burstein Gayle , Schardon Christopher L. , Cardounel Arturo J. , Ekmekcioglu Suhendan , Fast Walter
Published: February 2014

Inhibitors of the human enzyme dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase‐1 (DDAH‐1) can raise endogenous levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and lead to a subsequent inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis. In this study, N5‐(1‐imino‐2‐chloroethyl)‐L‐ornithine (Cl‐NIO) is shown to be a potent time‐ and concentration‐dependent inhibitor of purified human DDAH‐1 (KI=1.3±0.6 μM; kinact=0.34±0.07 min−1), with >500‐fold selectivity against two arginine‐handling enzymes in the same pathway. An activity probe is used to measure the “in cell” IC50 value (6.6±0.2 μM) for Cl‐NIO inhibition of DDAH‐1 artificially expressed within cultured HEK293T cells. A screen of diverse melanoma cell lines reveals that a striking 50/64 (78 %) of melanoma lines tested showed increased levels of DDAH‐1 relative to normal melanocyte control lines. Treatment of the melanoma A375 cell line with Cl‐NIO shows a subsequent decrease in cellular nitric oxide production. Cl‐NIO is a promising tool for the study of methylarginine‐mediated nitric oxide control and a potential therapeutic lead compound for other indications with elevated nitric oxide production, such as septic shock and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Proton Conductivity in Doped Aluminum Phosphonate Sponges
Authors: Wegener Jennifer , Kaltbeitzel Anke , Graf Robert , Klapper Markus , Müllen Klaus
Published: February 2014

Proton‐conducting networks (NETs) were prepared successfully by the insertion of phosphonated nanochannels into organic–inorganic hybrid materials that contain Al3+ as the connector and hexakis(p‐phosphonatophenyl)benzene (HPB) as the linker. Noncomplexed phosphonic acid groups remain in the framework, which depends on the ratio of both compounds, to yield a proton conductivity in the region of 10−3 S cm−1. This conductivity can be further improved and values as high as Nafion, a benchmark proton‐exchange membrane for fuel cell applications, can be obtained by filling the network pores with intrinsic proton conductors. As a result of their sponge‐like morphology, aluminum phosphonates adsorb conductive small molecules such as phosphonic acids, which results in a very high proton conductivity of approximately 5×10−2 S cm−1 at 120 °C and 50 % relative humidity (RH). Contrary to Nafion, the doped networks show a remarkably low temperature dependence of proton conductivity from external humidification. This effect indicates a transport mechanism that is different to the water vehicle mechanism. Furthermore, the materials exhibit an activation energy of 40 kJ mol−1 at 15 % RH that starts to diminish to 10 kJ mol−1 at 80 % RH, which is even smaller than the corresponding values obtained for Nafion 117.
Stochastic modeling of dynamic power management policies in server farms with setup times and server failures
Authors: Song Aibo , Wang Wei , Luo Junzhou
Published: February 2014

Server farms generally consume an enormous amount of energy, which not only increases the running cost but also simultaneously enhances their greenhouse gas emissions. One way to improve the energy efficiency in server farms is dynamical powering on/off servers. However, this method suffers from many setup time to turn the servers back on, which would have a negative impact on a job's response time and waste yet additional energy. This situation is further exacerbated by the unreliability of the servers, which has become the norm in today's server farms. In this paper, we investigate the impact of dynamical powering on/off servers on energy and performance in a typical server farm environment. Prior work has analyzed similar models for a single server, but no analytical results are known for multiservers. We mainly use the matrix geometric method to analyze this model, and system performance measures are explicitly developed in terms of computable forms. An energy‐performance trade‐off model is derived to determine the optimal management policy for the server farms. Finally, we discuss some extensions of our model to show its robustness and to point out avenues for future research. Numerical examples are provided at several points throughout the paper to illustrate the correctness of our analysis results and to validate the optimization approach. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicity and localization studies of a potential photodynamic therapy agent inDrosophila
Authors: Yoho Joshua , Stroh Colette , Swavey Shawn , Kango‐Singh Madhuri
Published: February 2014

Photodynamic therapy utilizes light, a photosensitizer, and molecular oxygen as a treatment modality for a variety of cancers. We have recently combined ruthenium(II) polypyridyl groups with a zinc(II) centered porphyrin as a new photosensitizer for the treatment of melanoma.In‐vitrostudies have indicated that this photosensitizer is toxic to melanoma cells when irradiated with low energy light; however, it is nontoxic to normal cells under similar conditions. To determine the toxicity and cell viability of this compoundin‐vivowe present, herein, a study usingDrosophila melanogaster. In the absence of light, the new photosensitizer shows no discernible effects to fly larvae at various concentrations of compound and stages of larval development. When the larvae were fed the photosensitizer it was observed, by fluorescence microscopy, that the compound passes through the cell membrane and localizes in the cytosol at lower concentrations and the nucleus at slightly higher concentrations indicating that the compound is not immediately metabolized. genesis 52:309–314, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Bimetallic Activation of White Phosphorus by trans‐[RhCl(CO)(dppm)]2 Results in a Tetrahedro‐Rh2P2 Moiety
Authors: Caporali Maria , Gonsalvi Luca , Mirabello Vincenzo , Ienco Andrea , Manca Gabriele , Zanobini Fabrizio , Peruzzini Maurizio
Published: February 2014

The reaction of trans‐[RhCl(CO)(dppm)]2 with P4 carried out at room temperature showed that bimetallic cooperation resulted in the cleavage of P4, giving a μ,η2‐P2 (μ‐κ2:κ2‐P2) ligand coordinated to the two metal centres. The new complex cis‐[Rh2(CO)2(μ‐dppm)2(μ,η2‐P2)] has been fully characterised in solution by NMR spectroscopy and in the solid state by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The Rh–Rh distance of 2.723(18) Å is consistent with the presence of a metal–metal single bond, which was supported by theoretical analysis showing that the HOMO of the complex has metal–metal bond character. A literature survey revealed that, in most cases, the P2 unit acts as a P24– ligand, and also in the case at hand the diphosphenyl ligand behaves as an eight‐electron donor with all the π* combinations occupied and donates into four empty metal combinations.
Antioxidant activities and interactions of α‐ and γ‐tocopherols within canola and soybean oil emulsions
Authors: Winkler‐Moser Jill K. , Logan Amy , Bakota Erica L.
Published: February 2014

The effect of differing concentrations and ratios of α‐ and γ‐TOH on oxidative stability over time was determined by measuring the development of hydroperoxides and volatile secondary oxidation products (hexanal) within a series of oil‐in‐water (o/w) emulsion systems produced from both canola oil (CO) and soybean oil (SBO). Overall rates for hydroperoxide and hexanal formation were lower in CO than in SBO. In CO emulsions, γ‐TOH was a stronger antioxidant than α‐TOH, and their interaction in mixtures was additive. In SBO emulsions, α‐TOH was a better antioxidant at lower concentrations, while γ‐TOH was better at higher concentrations. The interaction between α‐ and γ‐TOH was synergistic at low concentrations, but either additive or antagonistic at higher concentrations, depending on the concentration and ratio of the two TOHs. In both CO and SBO emulsions, α‐TOH became less effective at higher concentrations, while γ‐TOH activity increased with increasing concentrations.

Practical applications: Tocopherols are widely used natural antioxidants in human and pet foods, cosmetics, and supplements. This work provides information about the different antioxidant activities of α‐ and γ‐TOH and their interactions in o/w emulsions made with two of the most widely produced and utilized vegetable oils. This information can be applied to determine the best levels and ratios of tocopherols to protect emulsions depending on the type of oil that is used.
Hybrid Composites of LiMn2O4–Graphene as Rechargeable Electrodes in Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Sreelakshmi K. V. , Sasi Soorya , Balakrishnan A. , Sivakumar N. , Nair A. Sreekumar , Nair Shantikumar V. , Subramanian K. R. V.
Published: February 2014

In this study spinel‐lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) powders were prepared by using a simple sol–gel method with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and further combined with a conductive additive, graphene, to produce a composite electrode material for improved performance. The effects of the variation in the ratios of binder (PVA) to LiMn2O4 precursor on the particle size and electrochemical behavior of the composite were studied. Particle sizes of <200 nm were obtained. An energy density of 17.36 Wh kg−1 was obtained at an operating voltage of 3.2 V for the pure LiMn2O4 sample tested against a graphene electrode. For simultaneously improving power density (current Li batteries have a low power density as a disadvantage) along with energy density, the LiMn2O4–graphene composite was chosen as an electrode material. LiMn2O4–graphene composite electrodes were prepared by electrophoretic co‐deposition. The ratio of LiMn2O4–graphene composite was optimized to 1:1 during the electrode study based on its electrochemical performance. An average energy density of 30 Wh kg−1, a specific capacity of 49 mAh g−1, and an enhanced power density of 800 W kg−1 at a discharge current of 0.5 A g−1 were obtained. Discharge behavior improved evidently for tests performed on composite electrodes with increased LiMn2O4 (1:1.3 graphene/LiMn2O4). An improved average energy density of 59.6 Wh kg−1 was obtained along with a power density of 697 W kg−1. The electrodes showed good performance during study of a button cell device. Such electrodes are well suited for hybrid energy storage devices having good energy and power density and bridging the gap between batteries and supercapacitors.
Manufacturing of Thermoelectric Nanomaterials (Bi0.4Sb1.6Te3/Bi1.75Te3.25) and Integration into Window Glasses for Thermoelectricity Generation
Authors: Inayat Salman B. , Rader Kelly R. , Hussain Muhammad M.
Published: February 2014

We embed thermoelectric nanomaterials into window glass to generate thermoelectricity from the temperature gradient between the solar‐heated outdoors and the relatively cold indoor temperature. Until now thermoelectric generators have been built on a single side of a substrate, therefore requiring the two temperature environments to exist on the same side of the substrate. For this application, substantially thick window glass (>5 mm) serves as the interface for which the hot side is on the exterior side of the window and the cold side on the interior side. We demonstrate thermopiles made of nanomaterials integrated through the glass. With meticulous engineering, 300 W of power can be generated from a 9 m2 window for a temperature gradient of 20 °C, which is typical in hot climates, such as the desert areas in the Middle East and African Sahara. A thermoelectric window can be a supplementary power source for waste heat recovery in green building technology.
Evolution and degradation of flat‐top mesas in the hyper‐arid Negev, Israel revealed from 10Be cosmogenic nuclides
Authors: Boroda Ronen , Matmon Ari , Amit Rivka , Haviv Itai , Arnold Maurice , Aumaître Georges , Bourlès Didier L. , Keddadouche Karim , Eyal Yehuda , Enzel Yehouda
Published: February 2014

Mesas are ubiquitous landforms in arid and semiarid regions and are often characterized by horizontal stratified erodible rocks capped by more resistant strata. The accepted conceptual model for mesa evolution and degradation considers reduction in the width of the mesa flat‐top plateau due to cliff retreat but ignores possible denudation of the mesa flat‐top and the rates and mechanism of erosion. In this study we examine mesas in the northeastern hyperarid Negev Desert where they appear in various sizes and morphologies and represent different stages of mesa evolution. The variety of mesas within a single climatic zone allows examination of the process of mesa evolution through time. Two of the four sites examined are characterized by a relatively wide (200–230 m) flat‐top and a thick caprock whereas the other two are characterized by a much narrower remnant flat‐top (several meters) and thinner caprock. We use the concentration of the cosmogenic nuclide 10Be for: (a) determining the chronology of the various geomorphic features associated with the mesa; and (b) understanding geomorphic processes forming the mesa. The 10Be data, combined with field observations, suggest a correlation between the width of flat‐top mesa and the denudation and cliff retreat rates. Our results demonstrate that: (a) cliff retreat rates decrease with decreasing width of the flat‐top mesa; (b) vertical denudation rates increase with decreasing width of the flat‐top mesa below a critical value (~60 m, for the Negev Desert); (c) the reduction in the width of the flat‐top mesa is driven mainly by cliff retreat accompanied by extremely slow vertical denudation rate which can persist for a very long time (>106 Ma); and (d) when the width of the mesa decreases below a certain threshold, its rate of denudation increases dramatically and mesa degradation is completed in a short time. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of river channel morphology and bank characteristics on water surface boundary delineation using high‐resolution passive remote sensing and template matching
Authors: Güneralp İnci , Filippi Anthony M. , Hales Billy
Published: February 2014

Accurate mapping of water surface boundaries in rivers is an important step for monitoring water stages, estimating discharge, flood extent, and geomorphic response to changing hydrologic conditions, and assessing riverine habitat. Nonetheless, it is a challenging task in spatially and spectrally heterogeneous river environments, commonly characterized by high spatiotemporal variations in morphology, bed material, and bank cover. In this study, we investigate the influence of channel morphology and bank characteristics on the delineation of water surface boundaries in rivers using high spatial resolution passive remote sensing and a template‐matching (object‐based) algorithm, and compare its efficacy with that of Support Vector Machine (SVM) (pixel‐based) algorithm. We perform a detailed quantitative evaluation of boundary‐delineation accuracy using spatially explicit error maps in tandem with the spatial maps of geomorphic and bank classes. Results show that template matching is more successful than SVM in delineating water surface boundaries in river sections with spatially challenging geomorphic landforms (e.g. sediment bar structures, partially submerged sediment deposits) and shallow water conditions. However, overall delineation accuracy by SVM is higher than that of template matching (without iterative hierarchical learning). Vegetation and water indices, especially when combined with texture information, improve the accuracy of template matching, for example, in river sections with overhanging trees and shadows – the two most problematic conditions in water surface boundary delineation. By identifying the influence of channel morphology and bank characteristics on water surface boundary mapping, this study helps determine river sections with higher uncertainty in delineation. In turn, the most suitable methods and data sets can be selectively utilized to improve geomorphic/hydraulic characterization. The methodology developed here can also be applied to similar studies on other geomorphic landforms including floodplains, wetlands, lakes, and coastlines. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymmetrical river valleys in response to tectonic tilting and strike‐slip faulting, northeast margin of Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Ke , Ma Zhanwu , Grapes Rodney , Peng Zhuolun
Published: February 2014

The northeast margin of the Tibetan Plateau, a particularly important area to understand the mechanism of plateau formation, is characterized by large transpressional arcuate faults. There is debate on the amount of Quaternary sinistral displacement on the major Haiyuan Fault. Previously unrecognized systemic asymmetrical valleys have developed between the Haiyuan and Xiangshan faults. Southeast tilting and sinistral displacement on the northeast side of the Haiyuan Fault resulted in southeast migration of large rivers and asymmetrical widening of their valleys, leaving a systematic distribution of tilted strath terraces along their northwest sides. Where asymmetrical widening created by tilting kept pace with sinistral displacement, rivers have not been deflected, and the increase in valley width downstream from the fault should equate to total lateral displacement since river formation (e.g. Yuan River, a 7 km asymmetrical valley with a c. 2.2 Ma paleomagnetic age). Where river deflection and asymmetrical valley growth are coeval, valley width is less than total horizontal displacement (e.g. Hebao River, a c. 2.1 km asymmetrical valley with c. 2 km deflection). All rivers north of the Haiyuan Fault converge to cut across the Xiangshan Mountains as a gorge. Northeast thrusting of the upthrown side of the Xiangshan Fault has resulted in degradation and related strath terrace formation as the valleys asymmetrically widened. A probable earthquake‐induced landslide caused by movement on the Xiangshan Fault in latest Pleistocene blocked the gorge causing aggradation along all rivers and their tributaries. Deposition terraces were formed after the landslide dam was breached. Together with previous research on the Xiangshan Fault, it is concluded that there has been c. 7 km of Quaternary sinistral displacement on the Haiyuan and Xiangshan faults along the northeast margin of the Tibetan Plateau since the formation of rivers that intersect them. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sodium‐based fire resistant geopolymer for passive fire protection
Authors: Sakkas K. , Nomikos P. , Sofianos A. , Panias D.
Published: February 2014

This paper primarily deals with the examination of the performance under thermal loading of a fire resistant sodium‐based geopolymer from Ferronickel slag. In addition, the mechanical, physical and thermal properties of material and their respective variation with time were measured. It is shown that the material presents good mechanical strength and excellent physical and thermal properties. The behaviour of the material on fire was tested by subjecting it to thermal loading with the modification of a standardized passive fire protection test. Two different fire scenarios were investigated: (1) the least intensive standard ISO 834 fire load curve and (2) the most severe Rijkswaterstaat fire load curve. The material behaviour was excellent under its exposure at the ISO 834 fire load curve, showing optimal thermal insulating function and very good structural integrity. Under the Rijkswaterstaat fire load curve, the material showed again a very good thermal insulating function while at the same time suffered from creeping phenomena at the extremely high temperature of 1300°C that affected drastically its structural integrity. As a conclusion, the sodium‐based geopolymer from FeNi slag may be an appropriate material for passive fire protection systems under cellulosic fires but inappropriate against more intense fire incidents. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparing ice and temperature simulations by four dynamic lake models in Harp Lake: past performance and future predictions
Authors: Yao H. , Samal N. R. , Joehnk K. D. , Fang X. , Bruce L. C. , Pierson D. C. , Rusak J. A. , James A.
Published: February 2014

The physical dynamics of lake temperature and ice phenology are important in the modelling and management of temperate aquatic ecosystems. One‐dimensional hydrothermal lake models have not been well evaluated in terms of how they simulate ice dynamics in particular. We chose four models (Hostetler, Minlake, Simple Ice Model or SIM and General Lake Model) to test and compare their performance modelling water temperature and ice dynamics using 16 years of field data from Harp Lake, an extensively studied inland lake in south‐central Ontario. Each model produced satisfactory water temperature profiles over the simulated period, with small differences in the model performance. Model fits for ice phenology and ice thickness were, however, considerably lower than those for water temperature, with Minlake generating the best agreement with observed ice‐on and ice‐off dates as well as ice thickness, followed by SIM. The responses of lake ice dynamics to future climate scenarios were simulated by running each of the four models for 91 years, from 2010 to 2100. The predicted decrease in ice season length was significantly different among models, varying between 30 and 81 days, with an average of 48 days. Corresponding decreases in ice thickness varied between 0.11 and 0.20 m, averaging 0.17 m. This study demonstrates that uncertainty due to model performance and selection is considerable, and further testing and refinement of hydrothermal lake dynamic models are needed to improve predictive abilities for ice dynamics. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dairy products and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition
Authors: Duarte‐Salles Talita , Fedirko Veronika , Stepien Magdalena , Trichopoulou Antonia , Bamia Christina , Lagiou Pagona , Lukanova Annekatrin , Trepo Elisabeth , Overvad Kim , Tjønneland Anne , Halkjær Jytte , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Racine Antoine , Cadeau Claire , Kühn Tilman , Aleksandrova Krasimira , Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Tsiotas Konstantinos , Boffetta Paolo , Palli Domenico , Pala Valeria , Tumino Rosario , Sacerdote Carlotta , Panico Salvatore , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. B(as) , Dik Vincent K. , Peeters Petra H. , Weiderpass Elisabete , Torhild Gram Inger , Hjartåker Anette , Ramón Quirós Jose , Fonseca‐Nunes Ana , Molina‐Montes Esther , Dorronsoro Miren , Navarro Sanchez Carmen , Barricarte Aurelio , Lindkvist Björn , Sonestedt Emily , Johansson Ingegerd , Wennberg Maria , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Wareham Nick , Travis Ruth C. , Romieu Isabelle , Riboli Elio , Jenab Mazda
Published: February 2014

Intake of dairy products has been associated with risk of some cancers, but findings are often inconsistent and information on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk is limited, particularly from prospective settings. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between consumption of total and specific dairy products (milk/cheese/yogurt) and their components (calcium/vitamin D/fats/protein), with first incident HCC (Ncases = 191) in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition cohort, including a nested case–control subset (Ncases = 122) with the assessment of hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus infections status, liver damage and circulating insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I levels. For cohort analyses, multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). For nested case–control analyses, conditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios and 95% CI. A total of 477,206 participants were followed‐up for an average of 11 years (person‐years follow‐up = 5,415,385). In the cohort study, a significant positive HCC risk association was observed for total dairy products (highest vs. lowest tertile, HR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.13–2.43; ptrend = 0.012), milk (HR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.02–2.24; ptrend = 0.049), and cheese (HR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.02–2.38; ptrend = 0.101), but not yogurt (HR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.65–1.35). Dietary calcium, vitamin D, fat and protein from dairy sources were associated with increased HCC risk, whereas the same nutrients from nondairy sources showed inverse or null associations. In the nested case–control study, similar results were observed among hepatitis‐free individuals. Results from this large prospective cohort study suggest that higher consumption of dairy products, particularly milk and cheese, may be associated with increased HCC risk. Validation of these findings in other populations is necessary. Potential biologic mechanisms require further exploration.
Producing meaningful improvements in problem behavior of children with autism via synthesized analyses and treatments
Authors: Hanley Gregory P. , Jin C. Sandy , Vanselow Nicholas R. , Hanratty Laura A.
Published: February 2014

Problem behaviors like self‐injury, aggression, or disruption will likely require intervention at some point in the life of a person diagnosed with autism. Behavioral intervention has been proven to be effective for addressing these problems, especially when a functional assessment is conducted. Comprehensive treatment for problem behavior is, however, often fractured across studies, resulting in a dearth of studies that show socially validated improvements in these problem behaviors or illustrate the assessment and treatment process from start to finish. In this article, we describe an effective, comprehensive, and parent‐validated functional assessment and treatment process for the severe problem behaviors of 3 children with autism. After an 8‐ to 14‐week outpatient clinic consultation, no problem behavior was observed at the clinic and in the home. Furthermore, behavior that did not occur during baseline (e.g., functional communication, delay and denial tolerance, and compliance with instructions) occurred with regularity.

Video Abstract
In vivo biocompatibility versus degree of conversion of resin‐reinforced cements in different time periods
Authors: Lacerda‐Santos Rogério , De Farias Maria Isabel Serpa Simões , De Carvalho Fabiola Galbiatti , Pithon Matheus Melo , Alves Pollianna Muniz , Tanaka Orlando Motohiro , Guênes Gymenna Maria Tenório
Published: February 2014

This study focused on test the null hypothesis that there is no difference between the degree of conversion and biocompatibility of different resin reinforced glass ionomer cements (RRGICs). Forty‐eight male Wistar rats were used, distributed into four groups (n = 12), as follows: Group C (Control, polyethylene), Group FOB (Fuji Ortho Band), Group UBL (Ultra band Lok), and Group MCG (Multicure Glass), in subcutaneous tissue. The events of edema, necrosis, granulation tissue, multinuclear giant cells, young fibroblasts, and collagen formation were analyzed at 7, 15, and 30 days. The degree of conversion was evaluated by the Fourier method. Biocompatibility and degree of conversion were assessed using the Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn tests, and ANOVA and Tukey's test, respectively (P < 0.05). It was observed that, there was significant difference between Groups FOB and UBL for the presence of young fibroblasts at 15 days (P = 0.034) and between the Control and MCG Groups for the presence of multinucleated giant cells at 30 days (P = 0.009). Monomer conversion increased progressively until day 30, with significant difference between Group FOB and Groups UBL and MCG (P = 0.013) at 15 days. The null hypothesis was partially accepted, Fuji Ortho Band showed a less monomer conversion and a smaller number of young fibroblasts in the time of 15 days. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:335–340, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of impaired functional status at hospital discharge and subsequent rehospitalization
Authors: Hoyer Erik H. , Needham Dale M. , Atanelov Levan , Knox Brenda , Friedman Michael , Brotman Daniel J.
Published: February 2014

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether functional status near the time of discharge from acute care hospitalization is associated with acute care readmission.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of 9405 consecutive patients admitted from an acute care hospital to an inpatient rehabilitation facility between July 1, 2006 and December 31, 2012. Patients' functional status at admission to the rehabilitation facility was assessed by the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) score, and divided into low, middle, or high functional status. The main outcome was readmission to an acute care hospital within 30 days of acute care discharge (for all patients and by subgroup according to diagnostic group: medical, orthopedic, or neurologic).

RESULTS

There were 1182 (13%) readmissions. FIM score was significantly associated with readmission, with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for low and middle versus high FIM score category of 3.0 (2.5‐3.6; P < 0.001) and 1.5 (95% CI: 1.3‐1.8; P < 0.001), respectively. This relationship between FIM score and readmission held across diagnostic category. Medical patients with low functional status had the highest readmission rate (OR: 29%; 95% CI: 25%‐32%) and an adjusted OR for readmission of 3.2 (95% CI: 2.4‐4.3, P < 0.001) compared to medical patients with high FIM scores.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

For patients admitted to an acute inpatient rehabilitation facility, functional status near the time of discharge from an acute care hospital is strongly associated with acute care readmission, particularly for medical patients with greater functional impairments. Reducing functional status decline during acute care hospitalization may be an important strategy to lower readmissions. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:277–282. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
Histological–MRI correlation in the primary motor cortex of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Meadowcroft Mark D. , Mutic Nathan J. , Bigler Don C. , Wang Jian‐li , Simmons Zachary , Connor James R. , Yang Qing X.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To establish the relationship between ALS histopathology and quantitative MRI metrics.

Materials and Methods

ALS patients (N = 8) in advanced stages of the disease were enrolled and, immediately after death, the brain of each patient was removed. Freshly excised ALS tissue was imaged at 3.0 Tesla with T1 and T2 mapping protocols and subsequently stained with astrocyte, myelin, and neuronal markers. Measures of ALS histological stains were compared with the internal control (primary visual cortex) and longitudinal parametric maps.

Results

Post‐mortem T1‐weighted images demonstrate diminished contrast between gray and white matter and alterations in T1 relaxation within the primary motor cortex. An increase in astrocyte number and reactivity as well as evident neuronal loss, a decrease in axonal density, and unraveling of the myelin sheaths in subcortical white matter were found in the ALS primary motor cortex exhibiting significant T1 relaxation and contrast changes.

Conclusion

This study provides a histopathological basis for differences in MR T1 contrast and relaxation seen in the ALS brain. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:665–675. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
T1rho MRI at 3T of menisci in patients with acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury
Authors: Wang Ligong , Chang Gregory , Bencardino Jenny , Babb James S. , Rokito Andrew , Jazrawi Laith , Sherman Orrin , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To explore the feasibility of T1rho mapping of menisci at 3T in discriminating between patients with acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and healthy controls.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐three subjects were included in the study and subdivided into two subgroups: 16 healthy controls (4 females, 12 males; mean age = 34.4 ± 10.2 years, age range 24–63 years), 17 patients with ACL injury (3 females, 14 males; mean age = 29.8 ± 10.8 years, age range 18–61 years). T1rho images from all subjects were acquired on a 3T MR scanner using a spin‐lock‐based 3D GRE sequence and computed for T1rho mapping. Clinical proton density (PD)‐weighted fast spin echo (FSE) images in the sagittal (without fat saturation), axial, and coronal (fat‐saturated) planes were also acquired for cartilage assessment using Whole‐Organ MR Imaging Score (WORMS) grading. Mixed model two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to determine whether there were any significant differences among subregional, compartmental, and whole structure T1rho values of meniscus between healthy controls and ACL‐injured patients.

Results

Lateral posterior (29 ± 8 msec) and medial central (25 ± 7 msec) meniscus subregions in healthy controls had significantly lower T1rho values (P < 0.05) than the corresponding meniscus subregions in ACL‐injured patients. Significantly lower meniscus T1rho values (P < 0.05) were also identified in lateral compartment in healthy controls (26 ± 6 msec) than that of ACL‐injured patients (33 ± 4 msec). Subjects' total WORMS between healthy controls and ACL‐injured patients had significant differences (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These preliminary results indicate that T1rho mapping is possibly feasible in detecting meniscus degeneration and may be useful in distinguishing ACL‐injured patients. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:544–549.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Firm Performance and the Evolution of Cooperative Interfirm Networks: UK Venture Capital Syndication
Authors: Checkley Matthew , Steglich Christian , Angwin Duncan , Endersby Richard
Published: February 2014

Interfirm networks improve performance outcomes and higher performance is contagious between cooperating firms.
Influence of cryogenic lubrication on the tribological properties of Ti6Al4V and Inconel 718 alloys under extreme contact conditions
Authors: Courbon C. , Pusavec F. , Dumont F. , Rech J. , Kopac J.
Published: February 2014

The proposed paper is focusing on the influence of cryogenic lubrication on friction within the context of machining TiAl6V4 and Inconel 718 alloys with carbide cutting tools. Several wear improvements have been reported in the literature when using liquid or gas nitrogen as cooling‐lubrication fluids compared with dry machining or to conventional emulsion lubrication. However, it is always questionable whether cryogenic lubrication is responsible for a decrease in the cutting temperature or for a decrease in the friction coefficient at the contact interfaces and whether liquid nitrogen lubrication is more effective than gas nitrogen lubrication. In order to simulate the tribological conditions corresponding to those occurring at these interfaces under dry and cryogenic conditions, a specially designed open tribometer has been used to characterise macroscopic friction coefficient, heat transfer and adhesion in the contact for a large range of sliding velocities. Friction, cryogenic, superalloys, heat transfer and adhesion Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy and external dacryocystorhinostomy in patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction
Authors: Taşkıran Çömez Arzu , Karadağ Onur , Arıkan Sedat , Gencer Baran , Kara Selçuk
Published: February 2014

Background and Objective

To compare the success, complication, and patient discomfort rates of transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy (TCDL‐DCR) and external dacryocystorhinostomy (EX‐DCR) surgeries performed in patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

Materials and Methods

Eighty consecutive patients were included in the study, and groups were assigned according to DCR technique. Thirty‐four (42.5%) patients received TCDL‐DCR (Group A) and 46 (57.5%) patients (Group B) received EX‐DCR with temporary silicone stent intubation. The success of surgery was determined by the relief of epiphora, patient satisfaction, endoscopic evaluation of ostium patency, and lacrimal system syringing. Pearson Chi‐Square test, Fisher's Exact test, and Student's t‐test were used for statistical analyses.

Results

Group A included 22 females and 12 males with a mean age of 49.1 ± 15.1 years, Group B included 35 females and 11 males with a mean age of 50.8 ± 11.7 years. There was no difference between groups in terms of age and gender (P = 0.905 and P = 0.167, respectively). The duration of the operation was 22.2 ± 4.8 minutes for Group A, while it was 56.3 ± 15.7 minutes for group B (P = 0.0001). In two patients in Group A, injury in the medial turbinate was recorded, and in Group B, 14 patients experienced mild to severe perioperative bleeding. The perioperative complication rate was significantly different between the groups (P = 0.004).

Success in relieving symptoms was 79.4% for Group A and 89.1% for Group B. The difference in the success rates was not statistically significant (P = 0.229).

Conclusions

Although EX‐DCR success rate was higher than that achieved with TCDL‐DCR, the latter, with its shorter duration of surgery, lower perioperative complication rate, and a similar success rate, may be a good and acceptable surgical alternative in treatment of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:275–280, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Functional Polymer Nanocomposites with Graphene: A Review
Authors: Mittal Vikas
Published: February 2014

Polymer/graphene based nanomaterials have attracted significant scientific interest in the recent years due to marked enhancement in the polymer properties at low filler fractions. The property enhancements are attributed commonly to high aspect ratio of graphene platelets, filler–polymer interactions at the interface, as well as uniform dispersion of the platelets in the polymer matrices. Graphene also provides opportunities to tune its surface in order to achieve compatibility with the polymer matrices. Occasionally, chemical binding of the polymer matrix to the graphene surface has also been achieved.
Absence of C9ORF72 expanded or intermediate repeats in autopsy‐confirmed Parkinson's disease
Authors: Nuytemans Karen , Inchausti Vanessa , Beecham Gary W. , Wang Liyong , Dickson Dennis W. , Trojanowski John Q. , Lee Virginia M.‐Y. , Mash Deborah C. , Frosch Matthew P. , Foroud Tatiana M. , Honig Lawrence S. , Montine Thomas J. , Dawson Ted M. , Martin Eden R. , Scott William K. , Vance Jeffery M.
Published: February 2014

Background

We have reported that intermediate repeat lengths of the C9ORF72 repeat are a risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD) in a clinically diagnosed data set. Because 10% to 25% of clinically diagnosed PD have different diagnoses upon autopsy, we hypothesized that this may reflect phenotypic heterogeneity or concomitant pathology of other neurodegenerative disorders.

Methods

We screened 488 autopsy‐confirmed PD cases for expansion haplotype tag rs3849942T. In 196 identified haplotype carriers, the C9ORF72 repeat was genotyped using the repeat‐primed polymerase chain reaction assay.

Results

No larger (intermediate or expanded) repeats were found in these autopsy‐confirmed PD samples. This absence of larger repeats is significantly different from the frequency in clinically diagnosed datasets (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that expanded or intermediate C9ORF72 repeats in clinically diagnosed PD or parkinsonism might be an indication of heterogeneity in clinically diagnosed PD cases. Further studies are needed to elucidate the potential contribution of the C9ORF72 repeat to autopsy‐confirmed PD. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Sural sparing pattern discriminates Guillain–Barré syndrome from its mimics
Authors: Derksen Angelika , Ritter Christian , Athar Parveen , Kieseier Bernd C. , Mancias Pedro , Hartung Hans‐Peter , Sheikh Kazim A. , Lehmann Helmar C.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Electrodiagnostic features of demyelination are essential for establishing the diagnosis in demyelinating subtypes of Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS), but they may also occur in disorders that mimic GBS clinically. Information about their frequency in GBS mimics is sparse. Methods: Evaluation of electrodiagnostic features from 38 patients with suspected GBS in whom the diagnosis was later refuted (GBS mimics). Their diagnostic accuracy was analyzed by comparison with nerve conduction studies (NCS) from 73 confirmed GBS patients. Results: Disorders that mimicked GBS clinically at the time of hospital admission included other inflammatory, metabolic, toxic, or infectious neuropathies and spinal cord disorders. The sural sparing pattern was the most specific electrodiagnostic feature for demyelinating GBS. Conclusions: Common electrodiagnostic abnormalities in early demyelinating GBS do not usually exclude other rare differential diagnoses. An exception to this is the sural sparing pattern described here, which strongly supports the diagnosis of demyelinating GBS. Muscle Nerve 50: 780–784, 2014
Adjustments in the force–frequency relationship during passive and exercise‐induced hyperthermia
Authors: Périard Julien D. , Racinais Sebastien , Thompson Martin W.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: We examined the extent to which fatiguing cycling exercise in the heat influences contractile function in modulating the force–frequency relationship. Methods: Before (∽37.0°C) and after (∽38.5°C) exercise (ExH) and passive (PaH) hyperthermia, an 8‐s train of stimulation at 10, 20, 50, and 100 Hz (2 s per frequency) and a potentiated twitch were evoked on the relaxed knee extensors using percutaneous stimulation. Results: ExH and PaH produced a decrease in the 20:50 Hz force ratio, indicative of low‐frequency fatigue (P < 0.01). This adjustment was more pronounced after ExH than PaH (P < 0.01). A rightward displacement in the force–frequency relationship occurred after ExH and PaH (P < 0.05) and was exacerbated by ExH (P < 0.05). Peak twitch force also decreased after ExH (P < 0.05). Conclusions: ExH reduces force summation due to development of skeletal muscle fatigue, exacerbating the shift in force–frequency to the right relative to PaH. Muscle Nerve 50: 822–829, 2014
Hyperphagia: Current concepts and future directions proceedings of the 2nd international conference on hyperphagia
Authors: Heymsfield Steven B. , Avena Nicole M. , Baier Leslie , Brantley Phillip , Bray George A. , Burnett Lisa C. , Butler Merlin G. , Driscoll Daniel J. , Egli Dieter , Elmquist Joel , Forster Janice L. , Goldstone Anthony P. , Gourash Linda M. , Greenway Frank L. , Han Joan C. , Kane James G. , Leibel Rudolph L. , Loos Ruth J.F. , Scheimann Ann O. , Roth Christian L. , Seeley Randy J. , Sheffield Val , Tauber Maïthé , Vaisse Christian , Wang Liheng , Waterland Robert A. , Wevrick Rachel , Yanovski Jack A. , Zinn Andrew R.
Published: February 2014

Objective

Hyperphagia is a central feature of inherited disorders (e.g., Prader–Willi Syndrome) in which obesity is a primary phenotypic component. Hyperphagia may also contribute to obesity as observed in the general population, thus raising the potential importance of common underlying mechanisms and treatments. Substantial gaps in understanding the molecular basis of inherited hyperphagia syndromes are present as are a lack of mechanistic of mechanistic targets that can serve as a basis for pharmacologic and behavioral treatments.

Design and Methods

International conference with 28 experts, including scientists and caregivers, providing presentations, panel discussions, and debates.

Results

The reviewed collective research and clinical experience provides a critical body of new and novel information on hyperphagia at levels ranging from molecular to population. Gaps in understanding and tools needed for additional research were identified.

Conclusions

This report documents the full scope of important topics reviewed at a comprehensive international meeting devoted to the topic of hyperphagia and identifies key areas for future funding and research.
Suppression of Hedgehog signalling promotes pro‐tumourigenic integrin expression and function
Authors: Moutasim Karwan A , Mellows Toby , Mellone Massimiliano , Lopez Marie‐Antoinette , Tod Joanne , Kiely Philip C , Sapienza Karen , Greco Azzura , Neill Graham W , Violette Shelia , Weinreb Paul H , Marshall John F , Ottensmeier Christian H , Sayan A Emre , Jenei Veronika , Thomas Gareth J
Published: February 2014

Aberrant Hedgehog (Hh) signalling has been reported in a number of malignancies, particularly basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the skin. Clinical trials of Hh inhibitors are underway in many cancers, and these have produced significant clinical benefit in BCC patients, although regrowth of new, or clinically aggressive, variants, as well as development of secondary malignancies, has been reported. αvβ6 integrin is expressed in many cancers, where it has been shown to correlate with an aggressive tumour phenotype and poor prognosis. We have previously reported αvβ6 up‐regulation in aggressive, morphoeic BCC variants, where it modulates the stromal response and induces invasion. To examine a possible link between Hh and αvβ6 function, we generated BCC models, overexpressing Gli1 in immortalized keratinocytes (NTert1, HaCaT). Unexpectedly, we found that suppressing Gli1 significantly increased αvβ6 expression. This promoted tumour cell motility and also stromal myofibroblast differentiation through integrin‐dependent TGF‐β1 activation. Gli1 inhibited αvβ6 expression by suppressing TGF‐β1‐induced Smad2/3 activation, blocking a positive feedback loop maintaining high αvβ6 levels. A similar mechanism was observed in AsPC1 pancreatic cancer cells expressing endogenous Gli1, suggesting a common mechanism across tumour types. In vitro findings were supported using human clinical samples, where we showed an inverse correlation between αvβ6 and Gli1 expression in different BCC subtypes and pancreatic cancers. In summary, we show that expression of Gli1 and αvβ6 inversely correlates in tumours in vivo, and Hh targeting up‐regulates TGF‐β1/Smad2/3‐dependent αvβ6 expression, promoting pro‐tumourigenic cell functions in vitro. These results have potential clinical significance, given the reported recurrence of BCC variants and secondary malignancies in patients treated by Hh targeting. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and study of new functionalized silica aerogel poly(methyl methacrylate) composites for biomedical use
Authors: Lázár István , Bereczki Helga Fruzsina , Manó Sándor , Daróczi Lajos , Deák György , Fábián István , Csernátony Zoltán
Published: February 2014

Monolithic silica aerogels are nanostructured solids characterized with exceptionally high porosity and specific surface area. Although their strength can be improved by surface treatment with polymers, none of them has been tested yet as a filler in biocompatible polymer composites. The new aerogel–poly(methyl methacrylate) composites were prepared by free radical bulk polymerization of neat methyl methacrylate in the presence of natural and functionalized silica aerogels at 60°C, using cumene hydroperoxide initiator and 4,N,N‐trimethyl‐aniline redox pair. Synthetic conditions were set to be most similar to the setting of orthopedic bone cements. Structures, compositions, and molecular weight distributions were determined by scanning electron microscopy, combustion analysis, and gel permeation chromatography, respectively. Compressive strength, Shore D hardness and Gardner's impact strength were measured, and the fracture properties were compared to the matrices. All four aerogel fillers resulted in significant enhancement in compressive strength, reaching a maximum value of 123 MPa. Dissolution of H103PC‐1 natural and H106PB‐1 C16 modified aerogel containing specimens in simulated body fluid occurred in 20 days, leaving porous surfaces behind, which may give rise to higher tissue adhesion potential in bone cements. Heat treated silica aerogel in H112PA‐1 showed no leaching out, and its composites might be usefull in high‐load technical applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:348–358, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers