bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOFC Thermal Transients: Modeling by Application of Experimental System Identification Techniques
Authors: Barelli L. , Cinti G. , Desideri U. , Ottaviano A.
Published: December 2013

Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is one of the most promising technologies for future power generation. In order to make this technology marketable, many issues as cost reduction, durability, and operational management have to be overcome. Therefore, the understanding of thermodynamic and electrochemical mechanisms, that govern the SOFC behavior in steady‐state and in transient operation, becomes fundamental. In this context, the modeling of fuel cell (FC) thermal transient is of great interest because it can predict the temperature time variation, useful to the dimensioning of auxiliary devices and to avoid unwanted operational states affecting cell durability.

In the present study, a 0‐D model of SOFC thermal transients was developed by applying system identification techniques, starting from experimental tests carried out on a stack made up of four single cells. Moreover, it was successfully validated in reference to further experimental data.

The model allows to evaluate, in term of dynamic response, the effect of the main operating parameters on FC temperature. As further result, some control/regulation considerations useful to limit thermal stresses were proposed.
Blockade of microglial KATP‐channel abrogates suppression of inflammatory‐mediated inhibition of neural precursor cells
Authors: Ortega Francisco J. , Vukovic Jana , Rodríguez Manuel J. , Bartlett Perry F.
Published: December 2013

Microglia positively affect neural progenitor cell physiology through the release of inflammatory mediators or trophic factors. We demonstrated previously that reactive microglia foster KATP‐channel expression and that blocking this channel using glibenclamide administration enhances striatal neurogenesis after stroke. In this study, we investigated whether the microglial KATP‐channel directly influences the activation of neural precursor cells (NPCs) from the subventricular zone using transgenic Csf1r‐GFP mice. In vitro exposure of NPCs to lipopolysaccharide and interferon‐gamma resulted in a significant decrease in precursor cell number. The complete removal of microglia from the culture or exposure to enriched microglia culture also decreased the precursor cell number. The addition of glibenclamide rescued the negative effects of enriched microglia on neurosphere formation and promoted a ∼20% improvement in precursor cell number. Similar results were found using microglial‐conditioned media from isolated microglia. Using primary mixed glial and pure microglial cultures, glibenclamide specifically targeted reactive microglia to restore neurogenesis and increased the microglial production of the chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1). These findings provide the first direct evidence that the microglial KATP‐channel is a regulator of the proliferation of NPCs under inflammatory conditions. GLIA 2014;62:247–258
Spiritual struggle and affective symptoms among geriatric mood disordered patients
Authors: Rosmarin David H. , Malloy Mary C. , Forester Brent P.
Published: December 2013

Objectives

We explored relationships between general religiousness, positive religious coping, negative religious coping (spiritual struggle), and affective symptoms among geriatric mood disordered outpatients, in the northeastern USA.

Methods

We assessed for general religiousness (religious affiliation, belief in God, and private and public religious activity) and positive/negative religious coping, alongside interview and self‐report measures of affective functioning in a diagnostically heterogeneous sample of n = 34 geriatric mood disordered outpatients (n = 16 bipolar and n = 18 major depressive) at a psychiatric hospital in eastern Massachusetts.

Results

Except for a modest correlation between private prayer and lower Geriatric Depression Scale scores, general religious factors (belief in God, public religious activity, and religious affiliation) as well as positive religious coping were unrelated to affective symptoms after correcting for multiple comparisons and controlling for significant covariates. However, a large effect of spiritual struggle was observed on greater symptom levels (up to 19.4% shared variance). Further, mean levels of spiritual struggle and its observed effects on symptoms were equivalent irrespective of religious affiliation, belief, and private and public religious activity.

Conclusions

Previously observed effects of general religiousness on (less) depression among geriatric mood disordered patients may be less pronounced in less religious areas of the USA. However, spiritual struggle appears to be a common and important risk factor for depressive symptoms, regardless of patients' general level of religiousness. Further research on spiritual struggle is warranted among geriatric mood disordered patients. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ageing and trajectories of depressive symptoms in community‐dwelling men and women
Authors: Montagnier Delphine , Dartigues Jean‐François , Rouillon Frédéric , Pérès Karine , Falissard Bruno , Onen Fannie
Published: December 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate age‐related patterns of depressive symptoms in older men and women and to identify their determinants.

Methods

The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale was used to prospectively assess depressive symptoms in 1059 men and 1531 women, enrolled in a French representative population‐based cohort (PAQUID study) and followed over a period of 20 years. Using a group‐based trajectory method with an accelerated longitudinal design, we modelled the course of depressive symptoms between 65 and 104 years of age and examined associations between trajectory patterns and baseline socio‐demographic and health variables.

Results

In men, we identified three rising trajectories: ‘never depressed’ including 65% of the sample, ‘emerging depression’ (28%) and ‘increasing depression’ (7%). Compared with the membership of the never‐depressed trajectory, that of the two higher trajectories was significantly associated with a history of depression and dyspnoea. In women, we identified two slightly rising trajectories (never depressed, 56%, and ‘rising subclinical’, 33%) and one stable high trajectory (‘persistent depression’, 11%). Membership of the two higher trajectories was significantly associated with the use of benzodiazepine, polymedication and dyspnoea. A history of nondepressive psychiatric disorder was a risk factor for membership of the persistent‐depression group, whereas being widowed seemed to be a protective factor for membership of this group.

Conclusion

High‐risk groups for later‐life depression should be targeted differently in older men and women in order to implement appropriate interventions to prevent chronicity and disability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concurrent functional magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalography assessment of sensory gating in schizophrenia
Authors: Bak Nikolaj , Rostrup Egill , Larsson Henrik B.W. , Glenthøj Birte Y. , Oranje Bob
Published: December 2013

Schizophrenia is frequently accompanied by deficits in basic information processing, such as sensory gating. The sources behind deficient sensory gating in schizophrenia patients are, however, still largely unclear. The aim of the current study was to identify the brain structures involved in deficient sensory gating in schizophrenia patients. Twenty healthy male volunteers and 23 male schizophrenia patients were initially assessed in a somatosensory P50 suppression paradigm using concurrent electroencephalography (EEG)/functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) methodology. The trials consisted of single stimuli or pairs of identical stimuli with either 500 ms or 1,000 ms interstimulus intervals. Not all subjects showed a P50 waveform as a result of the somatosensory stimuli: It was detected in 13 schizophrenia patients and 15 control subjects. Significant P50 suppression was found in the 500 ms trials in controls only. Region of interest analyses were performed for a priori chosen regions. Significant negative correlations between P50 ratios and the BOLD response were found bilaterally in the hippocampus, thalamus, anterior and posterior superior temporal gyrus (STG), and in the left inferior frontal gyrus pars opercularis. However, significant group differences were found in the hippocampus and the thalamus only. This is the first study in which P50 suppression was assessed in schizophrenia patients with concurrent fMRI/EEG methodology. The data support that the STG, thalamus, inferior frontal gyrus, and the hippocampus are involved in P50 suppression. However, of these structures only the hippocampus and thalamus appeared involved in the altered sensory processing found in schizophrenia. Hum Brain Mapp 35:3578–3587, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐level ERBB2 gene amplification is associated with a particularly short time‐to‐metastasis, but results in a high rate of complete response once trastuzumab‐based therapy is offered in the metastatic setting
Authors: Fuchs Eva‐Maria , Köstler Wolfgang J. , Horvat Reinhard , Hudelist Gernot , Kubista Ernst , Attems Johannes , Zielinski Christoph C. , Singer Christian F.
Published: December 2013

Despite patient selection based on ERBB2 overexpression, not all patients benefit from trastuzumab therapy. We have investigated whether a ERBB2 gene dosage effect might provoke increased biological aggressiveness and altered trastuzumab sensitivity. Absolute ERBB2 copy numbers (“CN”) and ERBB2/centromer 17 ratios (“R”) were measured by FISH analysis in tumors of 127 patients receiving trastuzumab‐based treatment for Her‐2/neu overexpressing metastatic breast cancer. CN and R were both significantly associated with shorter time to first metastasis (TTM) (CN: OR: 1.099, 95% CI: 1.042–1.159; R: OR: 1.211, 95% CI: 1.080–1.357) and longer PFS (CN: OR: 0.917, 95% CI: 0.867–0.969; R: OR: 0.840, 95% CI: 0.743‐0.949) in a continuous variable Cox's regression model. Tumors with ERBB2/centromer 17 ratios of <2.2 had a significantly shorter TTM (p = 0.002) and significantly longer PFS (p = 0.003) than tumors with low‐level (R: 2.2–6) and high‐level amplification (R: >6). Interestingly, when ERBB2 copy numbers were analyzed, a significantly shorter TTM (p = 0.001) and longer PFS (p = 0.026) were observed in the group with high‐level amplified CN (CN: >13), while no difference was observed between non‐ and low‐level amplified CN. R, but not CN, was an independent predictor of complete (CR; OR: 1.685; 95%CI: 1.122–2.532) and partial (PR; OR: 1.704; 95% CI: 1.136–2.556) response in logistic regression analysis. CR (p = 0.016) rates were significantly higher in the high‐level amplification group (R > 6), but no difference existed in response rates between non‐ and low‐level amplified tumors in Chi‐square tests. High‐level ERBB2 amplification is associated with shorter TTM, but improved response to trastuzumab in metastatic breast cancer.
Different Role of cAMP Pathway on the Human Mast Cells HMC‐1560 and HMC‐1560,816 Activation
Authors: Barreiro‐Costa Olalla , Tobío Araceli , Alfonso Amparo , Botana Luis M.
Published: December 2013

HMC‐1 are inflammatory cells that release vasoactive substances such as histamine. These cells have the c‐kit receptor permanently activated in the membrane due to mutations in the proto‐oncogene c‐kit: Val‐560 → Gly and Asp‐816 → Val. Thus, there are two known cellular lines: HMC‐1560 and HMC‐1560,816. These mutations are involved in a disease called mastocitosys. In the present paper both lines were used to study the influence of cAMP/PKA/PDEs pathway on the histamine release and Ca2+ signaling since this pathway is often involved in these process. For this, the cells were preincubated with cAMP/PKA/PDEs modulators such as dibutyryl cAMP (dbcAMP), forskolin, H89, rolipram, IBMX, or imidazole and then stimulated with ionomycin. When cells were stimulated with agents that increase cAMP levels, the histamine release was not modified in HMC‐1560 but decreased in HMC‐1560,816 cells. The same happened when PKA was blocked. Furthermore, PDEs role on histamine release was independent of cAMP in HMC‐1560 cells and possibly also in HMC‐1560,816 cells. By contrast, the modulation of PKA and PDEs together changed the response in both cellular lines, therefore a relationship between them was suggested. All these modulatory effects on histamine release are Ca2+‐independent. On the other hand, the effect of c‐kit modulation on the cAMP/PKA/PDEs pathway was also checked. This receptor was blocked with STI571 (imatinib) and BMS‐354825 (dasatinib), but only the last one caused a decrease in the cellular response to ionomycin. This article demonstrates for the first time than the cAMP/PKA/PDEs pathway is involved in the activation of HMC‐1560 and HMC‐1560,816 cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 896–909, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anhedonia and Pain Avoidance in the Suicidal Mind: Behavioral Evidence for Motivational Manifestations of Suicidal Ideation in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Xie Weizhen , Li Huanhuan , Luo Xinwei , Fu Rong , Ying Xiangyu , Wang Ning , Yin Qifeng , Zou Yingmin , Cui Yanyan , Wang Xiang , Shi Chuan
Published: December 2013

Objectives

Psychological pain may be helpful in conceptualizing suicidal behavior, in that high motivation to avoid pain combined with painful feelings may contribute to an increased risk of suicide. However, no experimental study has tested this hypothesis. The aim of the present study is to provide empirical evidence for the relationship between anhedonia, pain avoidance motivation, and suicidal ideation.

Method

The sample comprised 40 depressed outpatients and 20 healthy control subjects. All participants completed the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS), Beck Depression Inventory, Psychache Scale, Three‐Dimensional Psychological Pain Scale, the monetary incentive delay (MID), and affective incentive delay (AID) tasks. Based on BSS scores, clinical participants were divided into high suicidal ideation (HSI) and low suicidal ideation (LSI) groups.

Results

In the AID task, the HSI group had longer response times (RTs) under the reward condition than those under the punishment condition (p = .002). The LSI and control groups had shorter RTs under the reward condition compared with those under the neural condition (p <.001 and p = .008, respectively). The LSI group also had shorter RTs under the reward condition than under the punishment condition (p = .003). Pain arousal (r = −.33, p <.01) and BSS scores were significantly negatively correlated with differences in RTs between neutral and reward conditions. Pain avoidance (r = .35, p <.01) and BSS scores were positively correlated with differences in RTs between neutral and punishment conditions.

Conclusions

The AID task was more sensitive than the MID task for the detection of participants’ motivation in approaching hedonic experiences and avoiding pain. A suicidal mindset is manifested as decreased motivation to experience hedonia and increased motivation to avoid pain, which could be strong predictors of suicidal behavior.
New and Practical Synthesis of N‐(3‐Cyano‐7‐ethoxy‐4‐oxo‐1,4‐dihydroquinolin‐6‐yl)acetamide
Authors: Ma Wenpeng , Mao Yongjun , Xie Kai , Zhu Qifeng , Zhang Rongxia , Shen Jingshan , Sun Hongbin
Published: December 2013

New and practical synthetic route of N‐(3‐cyano‐7‐ethoxy‐4‐oxo‐1,4‐dihydroquinolin‐6‐yl)acetamide (1) is described, through the cyclization of 2‐aminophenyl‐ethanone (12) with N,N‐dimethylformamide dimethylacetal. The overall yield of 1 obtained from this process is 46% (five steps) with a purity of >99% (HPLC).
One‐Pot Synthesis of 2‐Oxazolines from Ethyl α‐Cyanocinnamate Derivatives with N‐Bromoacetamide
Authors: Chen Zhanguo , Wen Hua , Li Wenli , Zhou Jimei , Hu Junli , Xia Wei
Published: December 2013

An efficient method for the one‐pot synthesis of 2‐oxazolines from ethyl α‐cyanocinnamate derivatives with N‐bromoacetamide in the presence of K3PO4 has been developed. The reaction performed smoothly and cleanly to give 2‐oxazolines in good to excellent yields (up to 98%) within 4.5 h in acetone at room temperature without protection of inert gases. A total of 13 examples have been investigated. A possible nucleophilic addition reaction mechanism is proposed.
Mycotoxin profile of Fusarium langsethiae isolated from wheat in Italy: production of type‐A trichothecenes and relevant glucosyl derivatives
Authors: Lattanzio Veronica M. T. , Ciasca Biancamaria , Haidukowski Miriam , Infantino Alessandro , Visconti Angelo , Pascale Michelangelo
Published: December 2013

Fusarium langsethiae, formally described as a new species over a decade ago, has been identified as the main producer of HT‐2 (HT2) and T‐2 (T2) toxins in Europe in small cereal grains. Mycotoxin contamination caused by this Fusarium species can represent a food safety hazard that deserves further attention. In the present work, the mycotoxin profile in wheat cultures of F. langsethiae is presented with particular reference to the production of major type‐A trichothecenes and their glucosyl derivatives. F. langsethiae isolates, representative of the major Italian wheat cultivation areas, were tested for the production of T2, HT2, diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS) and neosolaniol (NEO), and relevant glucosyl derivatives. Liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) was used for the identification and chemical characterization of these metabolites. F. langsethiae isolates under investigation resulted to be potent producers of T2, HT2 and NEO. Furthermore, a well‐defined set of isolates, all originating from Central Italy, produced also DAS. All isolates were found to be able to produce HT2 glucosyl derivatives, whereas only traces of T2 glucoside were detected in one sample. Furthermore, two mono‐glucosyl derivatives of NEO and one mono‐glucoside derivative of DAS were identified and characterized. The screening for the presence/absence of glucosylated trichothecenes in analyzed fungal extracts revealed a general co‐occurrence of these derivatives with the parent toxin at levels that could be roughly estimated to account up to 37% of the relevant unconjugated toxin. This is the first report of the production of glucosylated trichothecenes by F. langsethiae cultured on small grains. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Searching for grey literature for systematic reviews: challenges and benefits
Authors: Mahood Quenby , Van Eerd Dwayne , Irvin Emma
Published: December 2013

There is ongoing interest in including grey literature in systematic reviews. Including grey literature can broaden the scope to more relevant studies, thereby providing a more complete view of available evidence. Searching for grey literature can be challenging despite greater access through the Internet, search engines and online bibliographic databases. There are a number of publications that list sources for finding grey literature in systematic reviews. However, there is scant information about how searches for grey literature are executed and how it is included in the review process. This level of detail is important to ensure that reviews follow explicit methodology to be systematic, transparent and reproducible.

The purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed account of one systematic review team's experience in searching for grey literature and including it throughout the review. We provide a brief overview of grey literature before describing our search and review approach. We also discuss the benefits and challenges of including grey literature in our systematic review, as well as the strengths and limitations to our approach. Detailed information about incorporating grey literature in reviews is important in advancing methodology as review teams adapt and build upon the approaches described. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Omega‐3 fatty acids and sickle cell disease: Intriguing association and promising therapeutic effect
Authors: Daak Ahmed A , Ghebremeskel Kebreab
Published: December 2013

The therapeutic effects of omega‐3 fatty acids on inflammatory disorders and cardiovascular diseases are well known. The current consensus considers sickle cell disease (SCD) as a chronic inflammatory state with significant membrane fatty acids perturbation. This new paradigm toward the pathophysiology of the disease paved the way for novel anti‐inflammatory and anti‐aggregatory therapeutic agents. The clinical trials which investigated the role of omega‐3 fatty acid in (SCD) showed good evidence that omega‐3 fatty acids are safe and effective treatment.
Crystallization of Poly(vinylidene fluoride) in Blends with Poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐methacrylic acid) Copolymers
Authors: Landis Forrest A. , March Stephen R. , Deivasagayam Dakshinamoorthy , Mathers Robert T.
Published: December 2013

A series of poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐methacrylic acid) (PMMA‐co‐MAA) random copolymers ranging in MAA content from 0–15 mol% is synthesized and blended with poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). Using infrared spectroscopy, it is observed that the absorption bands attributed to hydrogen‐bonded carbonyl groups increase in intensity as the amount of MAA in the copolymer increases. In DSC analysis, the crystallization temperature of the PVDF in the blend initially decreases by ca. 12 °C with MAA contents ranging from 0 to 5.5 mol%; however, a PVDF blend with a 15 mol% MAA copolymer has a crystallization temperature that is only ca. 3 °C below that of pure PVDF. Similarly, spherulitic growth rate analysis initially shows a decrease in radial growth rate for PVDF in blends with PMMA‐co‐MAA copolymers containing less than 5.5 mol% MAA. At higher MAA copolymer contents, the spherulitic growth rate approaches that of pure PVDF. It is concluded that the presence of the MAA comono­mer in the PMMA‐co‐MAA copolymer initially (<5.5 mol% MAA) increases the intermolecular interactions between the copoly­mer and the PVDF. However, as the MAA content of the copolymer rises above 5.5 mol%, intramolecular hydrogen bonding interactions within the PMMA‐co‐MAA copolymer cause the copoly­mer to be less compatible with PVDF.

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Fractional integration operators of variable order: continuity and compactness properties
Authors: Lifshits Mikhail , Linde Werner
Published: December 2013

Let be a Lebesgue‐almost everywhere positive function. We consider the Riemann‐Liouville operator of variable order defined by

urn:x-wiley:dummy:mana201200337:equation:mana201200337-math-0002as an operator from to . Our first aim is to study its continuity properties. For example, we show that is always bounded (continuous) in provided that . Surprisingly, this becomes false for . In order to be bounded in L1[0, 1], the function has to satisfy some additional assumptions.

In the second, central part of this paper we investigate compactness properties of . We characterize functions for which is a compact operator and for certain classes of functions we provide order‐optimal bounds for the dyadic entropy numbers .
One‐Pot Synthesis of Molecular Bottle‐Brush Functionalized Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes with Superior Dispersibility in Water
Authors: Deng Yong , Hu Qin , Yuan Qiulin , Wu Yan , Ling Ying , Tang Haoyu
Published: December 2013

Molecular bottle‐brush functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with superior dispersibility in water are prepared by a one‐pot synthetic methodology. Elongating the main‐chain and side‐chain length of molecular bottle‐brushes can further increase SWCNT dispersibility. They show significant enhancement of SWCNT dispersibility up to four times higher than those of linear molecular functionalized SWCNTs.

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Combination of ATRA and ATRC for the Synthesis of Periodic Vinyl Copolymers
Authors: Wang Chun‐Hao , Song Zi‐Yuan , Deng Xin‐Xing , Zhang Li‐Jing , Du Fu‐Sheng , Li Zi‐Chen
Published: December 2013

A new approach to periodic vinyl copolymers via combination of atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) and atom transfer radical coupling (ATRC) is reported. The two examples are methyl methacrylate (MMA) and styrene (St) periodic copolymer (P(SMMS)) and acrylonitrile (AN) and St periodic copolymer (P(SAAS)). First, two monomer sequence units (MSU) with built‐in sequence, SMMS and SAAS, are synthesized through the controlled ATRA of two ATRP initiators with St. Then, the ATRC of SMMS and SAAS are conducted at high radical conditions to generate two types of high‐molecular‐weight copolymers, P(SMMS) and P(SAAS). Though side reactions can not be totally avoided, characterizations of the polymer structure with a variety of means confirm that the main chain structures of P(SMMS) and (PSAAS) are predominantly with the periodic sequences from the MSUs. Attempts to suppress the side reactions are successful via the MNP‐mediated ATRC of SMMS and SAAS.

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Self‐Assembled Microspheres Driven by Dipole‐Dipole Interactions: UCST‐Type Transition in Water
Authors: Morimoto Nobuyuki , Muramatsu Kanna , Wazawa Tetsuichi , Inoue Yuichi , Suzuki Makoto
Published: December 2013

A double hydrophilic block copolymer, poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(3‐dimethyl (methacryloyloxyethyl) ammonium propane sulfonate) (PEG‐SB), is synthesized by reversible addition‐fragmentation transfer (RAFT) polymerization using PEG methyl ether (4‐cyano‐4‐pentanoate dodecyl trithiocarbonate) as a chain transfer agent. PEG‐SB forms multi‐layered microspheres with dipole‐dipole interactions of the SB side chains as the driving force. The PEG‐SB polymers show an upper critical solution temperature (UCST) and the UCST is controllable by the polymerization degree. The PEG‐SB microspheres are dissociated above the UCST and then monodispersed microspheres (∼1 μm) are obtained when the solution temperature is decreased below the UCST again. The disassociation/association of the microspheres is also controllable using the concentration of NaCl. These multi‐responsive microspheres could be a powerful tool in the field of nano‐biotechnology.

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Continuous time mean‐variance optimal portfolio allocation under jump diffusion: An numerical impulse control approach
Authors: Dang Duy‐Minh , Forsyth Peter A.
Published: December 2013

We present efficient partial differential equation methods for continuous time mean‐variance portfolio allocation problems when the underlying risky asset follows a jump‐diffusion. The standard formulation of mean‐variance optimal portfolio allocation problems, where the total wealth is the underlying stochastic process, gives rise to a one‐dimensional (1D) nonlinear Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman (HJB) partial integrodifferential equation (PIDE) with the control present in the integrand of the jump term, and thus is difficult to solve efficiently. To preserve the efficient handling of the jump term, we formulate the asset allocation problem as a 2D impulse control problem, 1D for each asset in the portfolio, namely the bond and the stock. We then develop a numerical scheme based on a semi‐Lagrangian timestepping method, which we show to be monotone, consistent, and stable. Hence, assuming a strong comparison property holds, the numerical solution is guaranteed to converge to the unique viscosity solution of the corresponding HJB PIDE. The correctness of the proposed numerical framework is verified by numerical examples. We also discuss the effects on the efficient frontier of realistic financial modeling, such as different borrowing and lending interest rates, transaction costs, and constraints on the portfolio, such as maximum limits on borrowing and solvency. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 30: 664–698, 2014
Tight association between macrophages and adipocytes in obesity: Implications for adipocyte preparation
Authors: Ebke Lindsey A. , Nestor‐Kalinoski Andrea L. , Slotterbeck Brandon D. , Al‐Dieri Ali G. , Ghosh‐Lester Sumona , Russo Lucia , Najjar Sonia M. , von Grafenstein Hermann , McInerney Marcia F.
Published: December 2013

Objective

To determine the cellular architecture of the inflammatory infiltrate in adipose tissue from obese mice, and identify the source of inflammatory cytokines in adipose tissue at a single cell level.

Methods

Adipose tissue from diet‐induced obese mice was digested by collagenase treatment and fractionated by density centrifugation to obtain an adipocyte floating layer and a pellet of stromal vascular cells. The cellular architecture of the adipocyte‐macrophage interaction in both intact white adipose tissue (WAT) and the separated density gradient floating layer fraction was analyzed by confocal immunohistochemistry. Cytokine expression was detected by semi‐quantitative real time PCR and immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

Three dimensional image analysis of WAT and the separated “adipocyte” floating layer revealed lipid‐engorged macrophages, macrophages in contact with lipid droplets and sheath‐like assemblies of macrophages surrounding adipocytes. The macrophages immunostained for TNFα and to a lesser extent for the immunoregulatory cytokine IL‐10. TNFα staining was associated only with macrophages indicating that macrophages and not adipocytes are the source of TNFα expression in the adipocyte floating layer.

Conclusion

Macrophages form assemblies that tightly adhere to and cover adipocytes and lipid droplets. TNFα found in low density adipocyte preparations is due to contamination with macrophages.
Ectopic fat in youth: The contribution of hepatic and pancreatic fat to metabolic disturbances
Authors: Cohen Michal , Syme Catriona , Deforest Meghan , Wells Greg , Detzler Garry , Cheng Hai‐Ling , McCrindle Brian , Hanley Anthony , Hamilton Jill
Published: December 2013

Objective

To study the relationships between parameters of glucose and insulin metabolism and visceral and abdominal ectopic fat in youth.

Methods

A cross sectional study of 50 children (24 females), 8‐18 years old. Anthropometrics, body composition, blood‐work and visceral and ectopic fat by magnetic resonance imaging were assessed. Insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity and beta cell function were calculated from an oral glucose tolerance test.

Results

BMI z‐scores ranged between −1.3 and 4.5. The hepatic fat fraction (HFF) ranged between 0 and 36% and pancreatic fat fraction (PFF) between 0 and 14%. Visceral fat, HFF and PFF were associated with clinical and biochemical metabolic abnormalities, and correlated with markers of insulin sensitivity (r = −0.60, P < 0.01; r = −0.64, P < 0.01; r = −0.48, P < 0.01, respectively) insulin secretion (r = 0.55, P < 0.01; r = 0.57, P < 0.01; r = 0.41, P < 0.01, respectively), and beta cell function (r = −0.49, P < 0.01; r = −0.59, P < 0.01; r = −0.39, P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions

Accumulations of pancreatic and hepatic fat have complementary clinical consequences in youth. While visceral and hepatic fat demonstrated a dominant effect, even relatively small degrees of pancreatic fat deposition may contribute to metabolic alterations.
Formation of liquid‐crystalline morphologies in dilute solutions of a charged random terpolymer
Authors: Lahooti‐Fard Farzad , Imani Mohammad , Yousefi Ali Akbar , Babaie Maryam
Published: December 2013

Formation of micellar morphologies in aqueous solutions of charged random copolymers has been reported in several studies. This paper reports on liquid crystallization of the cationic random acrylic terpolymer i.e., poly[(dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate)‐co‐(methyl methacrylate)‐co‐(butyl methacrylate)] containing no mesogenic groups. The viscometric behaviour of the terpolymer solutions deviated in several ways from ordinary behaviour of polyelectrolytes supporting the possibility of self‐assembly of this cationic random terpolymer in a solvent mixture containing acetone, ethanol and 1‐propanol or each of these solvents separately. The existence of nano‐sized liquid‐crystalline structures was demonstrated using small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) analysis of the terpolymer solutions. Morphology and sizes of the liquid‐crystalline structures were determined according to the SAXS results and confirmed by dynamic light scattering and atomic force microscopy findings. Liquid crystallization was reasoned on the basis of the existence of a segregated chain microstructure as for polyelectrolytes containing folded parts connected to each other by monomer strings. In a random amphiphilic copolymer or the terpolymer under investigation, the folded parts and strings must be hydrophilic and hydrophobic, respectively. The role of alcohol aggregates should be considered in self‐assembly of the terpolymer chains. The alcohol aggregates can act as physical crosslinkers leading to the formation of more compact liquid‐crystalline structures. The deviations observed in the viscometric behaviour of the terpolymer solutions are suggested as the result of the ability of terpolymer chains to self‐assemble. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Combinatorial study of NaF addition in CIGSe films for high efficiency solar cells
Authors: Eid Jessica , Liang Haifan , Gereige Issam , Lee Sang , Duren Jeroen Van
Published: December 2013

We report on a sodium fluoride (NaF) thickness variation study for the H2Se batch furnace selenization of sputtered Cu(In,Ga) films in a wide range of Cu(In,Ga) film compositions to form Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGSe) films and solar cells. Literature review indicates lack of consensus on the mechanisms involved in Na altering CIGSe film properties. In this work, for sputtered and batch‐selenized CIGSe, NaF addition results in reduced gallium content and an increase in grain size for the top portion of the CIGSe film, as observed by scanning electron microscopy and secondary ion mass spectrometry. The addition of up to 20 nm of NaF resulted in an improvement in all relevant device parameters: open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current, and fill factor. The best results were found for 15 nm NaF addition, resulting in solar cells with 16.0% active‐area efficiency (without anti‐reflective coating) at open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 674 mV. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and binding characteristics of phosphonate inhibitors of SplA protease from Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Burchacka Ewa , Zdzalik Michal , Niemczyk Justyna‐Stec , Pustelny Katarzyna , Popowicz Grzegorz , Wladyka Benedykt , Dubin Adam , Potempa Jan , Sienczyk Marcin , Dubin Grzegorz , Oleksyszyn Jozef
Published: December 2013

Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for a variety of human infections, including life‐threatening, systemic conditions. Secreted proteome, including a range of proteases, constitutes the major virulence factor of the bacterium. However, the functions of individual enzymes, in particular SplA protease, remain poorly characterized. Here, we report development of specific inhibitors of SplA protease. The design, synthesis, and activity of a series of α‐aminoalkylphosphonate diaryl esters and their peptidyl derivatives are described. Potent inhibitors of SplA are reported, which may facilitate future investigation of physiological function of the protease. The binding modes of the high‐affinity compounds Cbz‐PheP‐(OC6H4−4‐SO2CH3)2 and Suc‐Val‐Pro‐PheP‐(OC6H5)2 are revealed by high‐resolution crystal structures of complexes with the protease. Surprisingly, the binding mode of both compounds deviates from previously characterized canonical interaction of α‐aminoalkylphosphonate peptidyl derivatives and family S1 serine proteases.
Systematic review of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome:virology, epidemiology, and clinical characteristics
Authors: Liu Shelan , Chai Chengliang , Wang Chengmin , Amer Said , Lv Huakun , He Hongxuan , Sun Jimin , Lin Junfen
Published: December 2013

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) was firstly discovered in China in 2010, followed by several reports from many other countries worldwide. SFTS virus (SFTSV) has been identified as the causative agent of the disease and has been recognized as a public health threat. This novel Bunyavirus belongs to the Phlebovirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae. This review also describes the different aspects of virology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, and clinical symptoms on the basis of the published article surveillance data and phylogenetic analyses of viral sequences of large, medium, and small segments retrieved from database using mega 5.05, simplot 3.5.1, network 4.611, and epi information system 3.5.3 software. SFTS presents with fever, thrombocytopenia, leukocytopenia, and considerable changes in several serum biomarkers. The disease has 10 ~ 15% mortality rate, commonly because of multiorgan dysfunction. SFTSV is mainly reported in the rural areas of Central and North‐Eastern China, with seasonal occurrence from May to September, mainly targeting those of ≥50 years of age. A wide range of domesticated animals, including sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, dogs, and chickens have been proven seropositive for SFTSV. Ticks, especially Haemaphysalis longicornis, are suspected to be the potential vector, which have a broad animal host range in the world. More studies are needed to elucidate the vector–animal–human ecological cycle, the pathogenic mechanisms in high level animal models and vaccine development. © 2013 The Authors. Reviews in Medical Virology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testing for qualitative interaction using ratios of treatment differences
Authors: Kitsche Andreas , Hothorn Ludwig A.
Published: December 2013

Testing for or against a qualitative interaction is relevant in randomized clinical trials that use a common primary factor treatment and have a secondary factor, such as the centre, region, subgroup, gender or biomarker. Interaction contrasts are formulated for ratios of differences between the levels of the primary treatment factor. Simultaneous confidence intervals allow for interpreting the magnitude and the relevance of the qualitative interaction. The proposed method is demonstrated by means of a multi‐centre clinical trial, using the R package mratios. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Epistemology of Popularity and Incentives
Authors: Moller Dan ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: December 2013

This paper discusses two epistemic principles that are important to buyers and sellers: the appeal to popularity and the appeal to incentive structures. I point out the various ways these principles are defeasible, and then offer some examples of them at work in the contexts of hiring, politics and the arts. Finally, I consider why these principles are generally neglected, and conclude that our neglect is unwarranted on both epistemic and moral grounds.
Using Online Media to Write Extended Persuasive Text
Authors: Morton‐Standish Leisa
Published: December 2013

This article examines methods of teaching students immersed in online media to write extended persuasive text. Specific examples for the writing classroom are outlined to engage students in persuasive writing through the use of online media. The persuasive writing examples are linked to the Common Core State Standards.
Ein Bild sagt mehr als tausend Worte:
Authors: Wahl Michael , Gnaser Hubert , Kopnarski Michael
Published: December 2013

Die Charakterisierung von Strukturen der heutigen Dünnschicht‐ und Nanotechnologie fordert die zur Verfügung stehenden instrumentellen Oberflächen‐ und Schichtanalysetechniken bis an die Grenzen ihrer Möglichkeiten. Nachweisempfindlichkeit und Ortsauflösung der etablierten Verfahren reichen inzwischen manchmal nicht mehr aus, um den Anforderungen in den genannten Hochtechnologiebereichen gerecht zu werden. Durch den Einsatz der heute kommerziell verfügbaren modernen 3D‐Atomsonden Tomografen (atom probe tomography APT) werden die Grenzen des analytisch machbaren deutlich erweitert. Herausragende Möglichkeiten zur quantitativen und hochempfindlichen Analyse der chemischen Materialzusammensetzung, kombiniert mit der dreidimensionalen Erfassung der zugehörigen Elementverteilungen bei fast atomarer Tiefen‐ und Lateralauflösung sind inzwischen erreichbar. Nach dem in der letzten Ausgabe veröffentlichten ersten Teil des Beitrags, in dem das der APT zugrunde liegende physikalische und technisch‐instrumentelle Prinzip vorgestellt wurde, werden in diesem Beitrag anhand zweier ausgewählter Analysebeispiele, aus dem Bereich der Magnetspeichertechnologie und der Silizium‐Nanotechnologie, die neuen Analysemöglichkeiten zur untersuchung von Dünnschichtsystemen sowie nanoskaligen Strukturen auch im Vergleich mit anderen Analysemethoden vorgestellt.
Evaluation of continuous‐catch doors for trapping wild pigs
Authors: Smith Trenton N. , Smith Mark D. , Johnson Dana K. , Ditchkoff Stephen S.
Published: December 2013

Lethal removal by trapping is frequently the most cost‐ and time‐effective means for managing wild pigs (Sus scrofa); however, the effectiveness of continuous‐catch trap doors, which allow the entry of additional pigs into the trap after the door closes, remains unstudied. Our objective was to determine entry of wild pigs through closed root, saloon, and trainer continuous‐catch doors. We constructed 26 corral traps on 4 study areas in east‐central and southwest Alabama, USA, during the summer of 2011. We pre‐baited each trap for ≥1 week to condition wild pigs to freely enter and exit traps and used game cameras to verify conditioning and to identify individuals and sounders. We then randomly assigned a trap door to each trap, set the trigger to capture only part of each sounder, and used game cameras to record the behavior of non‐captured individuals. We observed 239 individuals from 24 sounders. Non‐captured sounder members made 2.9 additional visits/trial (SE = 0.45) to traps after the door had closed, with each visit averaging 57.8 minutes (SE = 14.55) in duration. Of 222 opportunities (non‐captured pigs observed after trap door had closed) only 9 (16%), 1 (1.9%), and 1 (0.9%) wild pigs entered through closed root, trainer, and saloon doors, respectively. Continuous‐catch doors were ineffective at capturing substantial numbers of additional pigs after the door had closed. Given the comparatively greater expense of continuous‐catch doors, landowners and wildlife managers should weigh the relative cost and benefits of these doors when developing wild pig removal programs. © 2013 The Wildlife Society
Clinical Analysis of Anatomical Resection for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on the Stratification of Liver Function
Authors: Yamamoto Yusuke , Ikoma Hisashi , Morimura Ryo , Konishi Hirotaka , Murayama Yasutoshi , Komatsu Shuhei , Shiozaki Atsushi , Kuriu Yoshiaki , Kubota Takeshi , Nakanishi Masayoshi , Ichikawa Daisuke , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Okamoto Kazuma , Sakakura Chouhei , Ochiai Toshiya , Otsuji Eigo
Published: December 2013

Background

This study aimed to clarify the efficacy of anatomical resection (AR) for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared with that of nonanatomical resection (NAR) based on the stratification of liver function (LF).

Methods

The clinical records of 174 patients with a single HCC, 2–5 cm in diameter and without macroscopic vascular invasion, were analyzed. AR was performed in 132 patients and NAR was performed in 42 patients. The indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min (ICGR15) of the 78 patients classified as the good‐LF group was 10–20 % and the ICGR15 of the 54 patients classified as the poor‐LF group was 20–40 %.

Results

The 5‐year overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival rates of the 174 patients were 67.6 and 33.4 %, respectively. Cox proportional hazard analysis identified ICGR15 ≥20 %, liver cirrhosis, α‐fetoprotein ≥100 mg/dL, and infiltrating growth as independent prognostic factors. Liver cirrhosis was significantly less frequent in patients who underwent AR than in patients who underwent NAR (52 vs. 79 %, p = 0.002). In the subgroup analysis of the good‐LF group, there were no significant differences in 5‐year OS after AR and NAR (73.3 vs. 65.2 %, p = 0.857). By contrast, in the subgroup analysis of the poor‐LF group, the 5‐year OS after AR was significantly worse than after NAR (45.3 vs. 77.4 %, p = 0.044).

Conclusion

In patients with an ICGR15 ≥20 %, we recommend NAR rather than AR for the treatment of a solitary 2–5‐cm‐diameter HCC and without macroscopic vascular invasion.
Endoscopist-related factors contributing to high-quality colonoscopy: results of a
Delphi survey
Authors: Vivian E. Ekkelenkamp Vivian E. , Koch Arjun D. , Haringsma Jelle , Kuipers Ernst J. , De Man Robert A.
Published: December 2013

Education and competency assessment in gastrointestinal endoscopy is important.
Concerning colonoscopy, it is not completely clear what the best way is to learn this
procedure, what defines competency in colonoscopy, and which factors define a
high-quality colonoscopy. The aim of this study was to determine the endoscopist-related
factors that define a high-quality colonoscopy. A three-round Delphi survey among expert
endoscopists was carried out. In round 1, the panel was invited to identify factors
essential for a good colonoscopy. The listed factors were to be ranked during the second
round. In the third round, a 5-point Likert scale was added. A reference panel was
invited to assess the items as well. 14 expert endoscopists from the Netherlands were
invited, of whom eight participated (57 %). A list of 30 items important for colonoscopy
was formulated. After the following rounds, consensus was reached on 16 items.
Validation was conducted among eight trainees and eight experienced endoscopists
(response 100 %). The groups agreed on the importance of all but one factor (p = 0.001).
This Delphi survey has made explicit the endoscopist-related factors that are important
for optimal colonoscopy. This might provide trainers more support regarding concrete
competency assessment of trainees in endoscopy.
Downregulation of histone deacetylase 1 by microRNA‐520h contributes to the chemotherapeutic effect of doxorubicin
Authors: Shen Qi , Yao Qinghua , Sun Jie , Feng Lifeng , Lu Haiqi , Ma Yanning , Liu Leiming , Wang Faliang , Li Jiaqiu , Yue Yongfang , Jin Hongchuan , Wang Xian
Published: December 2013

Doxorubicin induces DNA damage to exert its anti‐cancer function. Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) can protect the genome from DNA damage. We found that doxorubicin specifically downregulates HDAC1 protein expression and identified HDAC1 as a target of miR‐520h, which was upregulated by doxorubicin. Doxorubicin‐induced cell death was impaired by exogenous HDAC1 or by miR‐520h inhibitor. Moreover, HDAC1 reduced the level of γH2AX by preventing the interaction of doxorubicin with DNA. In summary, doxorubicin downregulates HDAC1 protein expression, by inducing the expression of HDAC1‐targeting miR‐520h, to exacerbate DNA–doxorubicin interaction. The upregulation of HDAC1 protein may contribute to drug resistance of human cancer cells and targeting HDAC1 is a promising strategy to increase the clinical efficacy of DNA damage‐inducing chemotherapeutic drugs.