bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic mitochondria as therapeutics against systemic aging: a hypothesis
Authors: Tang Bor Luen
Published: September 2014

We hypothesize herein that synthetic mitochondria, engineered, or reprogrammed to be more energetically efficient and to have mildly elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, would be an effective form of therapeutics against systemic aging. The free radical and mitochondria theories of aging hold that mitochondria‐generated ROS underlies chronic organelle, cell and tissues damages that contribute to systemic aging. More recent findings, however, collectively suggest that while acute and massive ROS generation during events such as tissue injury is indeed detrimental, subacute stresses, and chronic elevation in ROS production may instead induce a state of mitochondrial hormesis (or “mitohormesis”) that could extend lifespan. Mitohormesis appears to be a convergent mechanism for several known anti‐aging signaling pathways. Importantly, mitohormetic signaling could also occur in a non‐cell autonomous manner, with its induction in neurons affecting gut cells, for example. Technologies are outlined that could lead towards testing of the hypothesis, which include genetic and epigenetic engineering of the mitochondria, as well as intercellular transfer of mitochondria from transplanted helper cells to target tissues.
A Bipolar Transporter as an Efficient Green Fluorescent Emitter and Host for Red Phosphors in Multi‐ and Single‐Layer Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Ye Jun , Chen Zhan , Wang Kai , An Feifei , Yuan Yi , Chen Wencheng , Yang Qingdan , Zhang Xiaohong , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: September 2014

Multifunctional donor–acceptor compound 4,4′‐bis(dibenzothiophene‐S,S‐dioxide‐2‐yl)triphenylamine (DSTPA) was obtained by linking a strongly electron‐withdrawing core and a strongly electron‐donating core with a biphenyl bridge in linear spatial alignment. DSTPA not only has suitable HOMO and LUMO levels for easily accepting both holes and electrons, it was also demonstrated to have a high fluorescence quantum yield of 0.98 and a high triplet energy level of 2.39 eV. Versatile applications of DSTPA for bipolar transport, green fluorescent emission, and sensitizing a red phosphor were systematically investigated in a series of multi‐ and single‐layer organic light‐emitting devices. In traditional multilayer devices, it shows excellent performance both in an undoped fluorescent device (used as a green emitter and achieving maximum current and power efficiencies (CE and PE) of 12.6 cd A−1 and 9.4 Lm W−1, respectively) and in a red phosphorescent device (used as a host and achieving maximum CE and PE of 26.4 cd A−1 and 26.3 Lm W−1, respectively). Furthermore, DSTPA was also simultaneously used as an emitter, a hole transporter, and an electron transporter in a single‐layer device showing CE and PE of 5.1 cd A−1 and 4.7 Lm W−1, respectively. A single‐layer red phosphorescent device with efficiencies of 11.7 cd A−1 and 12.6 Lm W−1 was obtained by doping DSTPA with a red phosphor. The performances of all of the devices in this work are comparable to the best of their corresponding classes in the literature.
Photoorganocatalytic Hydroacylation of Dialkyl Azodicarboxylates by Utilising Activated Ketones as Photocatalysts
Authors: Papadopoulos Giorgos N. , Limnios Dimitris , Kokotos Christoforos G.
Published: September 2014

A fast and efficient visible‐light metal‐free hydroacylation of dialkyl azodicarboxylates is described. Among a variety of activated ketones, phenyl glyoxylic acid and its ethyl ester were identified as suitable photoorganocatalysts. A range of aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes were employed, thus leading to products in high to excellent yields.
Pentacene‐Fused Diporphyrins
Authors: Jiang Lin , Engle James T. , Zaenglein Ross A. , Matus Alex , Ziegler Christopher J. , Wang Hong , Stillman Martin J.
Published: September 2014

In this work, we report the synthesis, spectroscopic characterization, and theoretical analysis of a linearly conjugated pentacene‐fused porphyrin dimer and cross‐conjugated quinone‐fused dinaphtho[2,3]porphyrins. These multichromophoric systems display non‐typical UV‐visible absorptions of either porphyrins or pentacenes/quinones. UV‐visible, emission and magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectroscopy suggest strong electronic interactions among the multichromophores in the system. DFT calculations revealed the delocalization of the HOMOs and LUMOs spanning the entire dimer and linker assembly. The pentacene‐fused porphyrin dimer is significantly more stable than both the corresponding pentacene and the heptacene derivatives. The availability of these huge π‐extended and electronically highly interactive multichromophoric systems promises unprecedented electronic and photophysical properties.
Succession in family versus nonfamily SMEs: What influence does it have on performance?
Authors: Colot Olivier , Bauweraerts Jonathan
Published: September 2014

The literature on family SMEs usually shows a negative influence of succession on performance. Based on a behavioural approach, we identify several advantages of intrafamily succession that enhance value creation. In order to confirm the positive impact of intrafamily succession on performance, a matched pair research design is used to compare the effect of succession between 102 family and nonfamily SMEs. Our results indicate that intrafamily succession contributes to value creation in family SMEs. Moreover, intrafamily succession leads to higher levels of performance in comparison with nonfamily SMEs experiencing succession and ownership transfer. Copyright © 2014 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The reversing influence of involvement on the framing effect: The role of emotions and negativity
Authors: Saqib Najam U.
Published: September 2014

The Asian disease problem (ADP), as a demonstration of the framing effect, revealed a preference reversal between options perceived as risky and those perceived as certain. This research identifies individuals' involvement level as a moderator of the framing effect. The framing effect in the ADP consisted of emotional choice outcomes regarding human lives. Two studies in this paper demonstrate that when based on emotional choices, the framing effect in high involvement conditions increases in size. Interestingly, this influence of involvement reverses when the framing effect is based on rational choices. The studies reveal that the negativity invoked by the certain loss option is instrumental in the underlying mechanism of the risky choice framing effect, such as that demonstrated by the ADP. Copyright © 2014 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Over the Line: Managers' experience of a labour strike
Authors: Scales Austin , Kelloway E. Kevin , Francis Lori
Published: September 2014

The experiences of managers who continue to work through a labour stoppage is a largely overlooked question in industrial relations research and practice. Qualitative long interviews were conducted with managers who worked through a strike. A shared narrative for managers' strike experiences emerged. Managers perceived that their prestrike workplace was cooperative and characterized by positive labour‐management relationships. The strike was experienced as contentious and personalized with managers reporting that they and their families were targets of aggression from strikers. The managers envisioned a more formal poststrike workplace characterized by less collegial labour‐management interactions. We discuss the implications of these findings and call for further research on managers' experiences of industrial relations events. Copyright © 2014 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiplatform comparison of molecular oncology tests performed on cytology specimens and formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue
Authors: Gailey Michael P. , Stence Aaron A. , Jensen Chris S. , Ma Deqin
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Molecular oncology testing is important for patient management, and requests for the molecular analysis of cytology specimens are increasingly being made. Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) cell blocks of such specimens have been routinely used for molecular diagnosis. However, the inability to assess cellularity before cell block preparation is a pitfall of their use. In this study, various cytologic preparations were tested with several molecular test platforms, and the results were compared with paired FFPE tissue.

METHODS

Seventy‐seven cytology cases, including fine‐needle aspiration smears, touch preparations, and SurePath thin‐layer preparations, were selected from the archives. Areas of interest were removed from the slide with a matrix capture solution. DNA extracted from the cells was evaluated by mutation analysis for BRAF, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), RAS, and a 50‐gene panel with various testing platforms (single‐nucleotide primer extension assay, Sanger sequencing, and next‐generation sequencing). Thirty‐eight tumors with available FFPE tissue were tested in parallel.

RESULTS

The average DNA concentration was 299 ng/µL for the cytology specimens and 171 ng/µg for the paired FFPE tissue. Point mutations and large deletions were detected in BRAF, KRAS, NRAS, HRAS, and EGFR genes. In comparison with FFPE tissue, 5‐ to 8‐fold less input DNA was needed when cytology preparations were used. The concordance between cytology specimens and FFPE tissue was 100%.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytologic preparations were found to be a reliable source for molecular oncology testing. DNA derived from cytology specimens performed well on multiple platforms, and 100% concordance was observed between cytology specimens and FFPE tissue. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2015;123:30–9. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
OH‐Initiated Photooxidations of 1‐Pentene and 2‐Methyl‐2‐propen‐1‐ol: Mechanism and Yields of the Primary Carbonyl Products
Authors: Peirone Silvina A. , Cometto Pablo M. , Lane Silvia I.
Published: September 2014

The products of the gas‐phase reactions of OH radicals with 1‐pentene and 2‐methyl‐2‐propen‐1‐ol (221MPO) at T=298±2 K and atmospheric pressure were investigated by using a 4500 L atmospheric simulation chamber that was built especially for this work. The molar yield of butyraldehyde was 0.74±0.12 mol for the reaction of 1‐pentene. This work provides the first product molar yield determination of formaldehyde (0.82±0.12 mol), 1‐hydroxypropan‐2‐one (0.84±0.13 mol), and methacrolein (0.078±0.012 mol) from the reaction of 221MPO with OH radicals. The mechanism of this reaction is discussed in relation to the experimental results. Additionally, taking into consideration the complex mechanism, the rate coefficients of the reactions of OH with formaldehyde, 1‐hydroxypropan‐2‐one, and methacrolein were derived at atmospheric pressure and T=298±2 K.; the obtained values were (8.9±1.6)×10−12, (2.4±1.4)×10−12, and (22.9±2.3)×10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, respectively.
Influence of Substrate Steps on the Catalytic Properties of Pt Layers: The Ethanol Electrooxidation Reaction
Authors: Prieto Mauricio J. , Tremiliosi‐Filho Germano
Published: September 2014

The ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) is investigated on Pt/Au(hkl) electrodes. The Au(hkl) single crystals used belong to the [n(111)x(110)] family of planes. Pt is deposited following the galvanic exchange of a previously deposited Cu monolayer using a Pt2+ solution. Deposition is not epitaxial and the defects on the underlying Au(hkl) substrates are partially transferred to the Pt films. Moreover, an additional (100)‐step‐like defect is formed, probably as a result of the strain resulting from the Pt and Au lattice mismatch. Regarding the EOR, both vicinal Pt/Au(hkl) surfaces exhibit a behavior that differs from that expected for stepped Pt; for instance, the smaller the step density on the underlying Au substrate, the greater the ability to break the CC bond in the ethanol molecule, as determined by in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements. Also, we found that the acetic acid production is favored as the terrace width decreases, thus reflecting the inefficiency of the surface array to cleave the ethanol molecule.
Nano‐Sized Quaternary CuGa2In3S8 as an Efficient Photocatalyst for Solar Hydrogen Production
Authors: Kandiel Tarek A. , Anjum Dalaver H. , Takanabe Kazuhiro
Published: September 2014

The synthesis of quaternary metal sulfide (QMS) nanocrystals is challenging because of the difficulty to control their stoichiometry and phase structure. Herein, quaternary CuGa2In3S8 photocatalysts with a primary particle size of ≈4 nm are synthesized using a facile hot‐injection method by fine‐tuning the sulfur source injection temperature and aging time. Characterization of the samples reveals that quaternary CuGa2In3S8 nanocrystals exhibit n‐type semiconductor characteristics with a transition band gap of ≈1.8 eV. Their flatband potential is located at −0.56 V versus the standard hydrogen electrode at pH 6.0 and is shifted cathodically by 0.75 V in solutions with pH values greater than 12.0. Under optimized conditions, the 1.0 wt % Ru‐loaded CuGa2In3S8 photocatalyst exhibits a photocatalytic H2 evolution response up to 700 nm and an apparent quantum efficiency of (6.9±0.5) % at 560 nm. These results indicate clearly that QMS nanocrystals have great potential as nano‐photocatalysts for solar H2 production.
Modular Synthesis of pH‐Sensitive Fluorescent Diaza[4]helicenes
Authors: Wallabregue Antoine , Sherin Petr , Guin Joyram , Besnard Céline , Vauthey Eric , Lacour Jérôme
Published: September 2014

Configurationally stable diaza[4]helicenes have been prepared in two steps by using a particularly facile N–N bond‐cleavage reaction. The synthetic procedure uses hydrazine (NH2NH2) for the introduction of a single nitrogen atom. The strategy is general, modular and highly tolerant to functional groups. A mechanistic rationale is proposed for the spontaneous N–N bond‐cleavage reaction. The resulting helical quinacridines are dyes that present absorption and emission properties that can be modulated as a function of pH; the pink quinacridine and green protonated forms (pKa ≈ 9.0) display distinct optical features in the near‐IR region. Single enantiomers were obtained by chiral stationary phase HPLC resolution. The absolute configurations were assigned by comparison of the ECD spectra of the conjugated acids with those of known dialkylquinacridinium derivatives. A rather high racemization barrier was measured by means of variable‐temperature ECD experiments (ΔG‡ = 30.7 ± 4.0 kcal mol–1 at 140 °C).
Catalytic Enantioselective Addition of Aryl Grignard Reagents to Ketones
Authors: Fernández‐Mateos Emilio , Maciá Beatriz , Yus Miguel
Published: September 2014

We report a catalytic system for the challenging enantioselective addition of aryl Grignard reagents to ketones. Using a simple, one‐pot procedure under mild conditions, a wide range of aromatic ketones are converted into diaryl alcohols in good yields and with good enantioselectivities.
Analysis for loss of heterozygosity on chromosome arm 13q by STR analysis or SNP sequencing can replace analysis of FLT3‐ITD to detect patients with prognostically adverse AML
Authors: Schnittger Susanne , Haferlach Claudia , Kern Wolfgang , Haferlach Torsten
Published: September 2014

We aimed at developing novel assays for Loss of Heterozygosity (LOH) detection on 13q as a substitute for FLT3‐ITD analysis to identify acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with high risk of shorter survival. To this aim, we first analyzed a selected cohort of 185 patients with (n = 138) or without (n = 47) FLT3‐ITD by short tandem repeat (STR) analysis for 13q LOH. In 46 of 138 FLT3‐ITD positive cases, a FLT3‐ITD/FLT3wt ratio of ≥1 was measured indicating LOH. Applying analysis with a combination of five different STR markers, a threshold of an STR allelic ratio of >65% allows the identification of LOH in 40/46 (87%) samples. Survival analysis revealed significantly inferior outcome in patients with LOH as detected by STR analysis (event free survival (EFS): no LOH: 13.3 months versus LOH: 4.5 months, p < 0.001; overall survival (OS): no LOH: 35.8 months versus LOH: 9.7 months, p = 0.001). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, 13q LOH was found to be an independent adverse parameter for EFS and OS (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001, respectively) besides age and white blood cell count. Thus, the prognostic impact of 13q LOH is nearly identical to the one of FLT3‐ITD/FLT3wt load of ≥1 and thus is a feasible alternative to identify respective patients with high risk AML. In a second approach, a cohort of 91 patients was subjected to a proof‐of‐principle study of applying single nucleotide polymorphism analysis by next generation amplicon sequencing for detection of LOH. 53/91 cases had LOH and 50 were identified with this new method resulting in a positive detection rate of 94.3%. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transformational Leadership and Organizational Commitment: The Mediating Role of Job Characteristics
Authors: Gillet Nicolas , Vandenberghe Christian
Published: September 2014

Although the contribution of transformational leadership to employee organizational commitment is well documented, the mechanisms that explain such relationship remain unclear. In the present research, we propose that transformational leadership can influence organizational commitment through impacting followers’ perceptions of job characteristics (i.e., feedback from job, task variety, and decision‐making autonomy). Structural equation modeling analyses conducted on a sample of employees from multiple organizations in France (N = 488) found the relationships between transformational leadership and four components of organizational commitment (i.e., affective, normative, perceived sacrifice, and few alternatives commitment) to be partly mediated by followers’ perceptions of task characteristics. We discuss the relevance of these findings for theory and human resource development.
Mentoring and Leader Identity Development: A Case Study
Authors: Muir Douglas
Published: September 2014

This study explored the influence of a formal mentoring program on the leader identity development of participants and how they developed their leader identity during their participation in a nondegree leadership development certification program. The central research question of this study was: How does a participant's identity as a leader develop over time and what influence does a formal mentoring program have on the formation of a leader identity. A qualitative case‐study approach with in‐depth semi‐structured interviews was used to gather the perspectives of participants and mentors. The study included 25 research participants including 11 mentor dyads. Three themes emerged from the data: (a) the mentor partnership–leader identity discovery, (b) leader identity development through critical learning moments, and (c) leader identity development through self‐knowledge. Findings of this research suggest that adult learning principles are instrumental components to the leader identity development process. The participants believed that their formal mentoring experience was pivotal to the discovery and development of their leader identity. Additionally, critical reflection on the critical learning moments was another of the key factors that led to their development of their identity as a leader. Suggestions for future research include: (a) the effects of adult learning approaches on leader identity development, and (b) the effect mentoring may have on the different stages of identity development.
What Factors Affect Teachers in Taiwan in Becoming More Involved in Professional Development? A Hierarchical Linear Analysis
Authors: Liu Hsiao‐Wen , Jehng Jihn‐Chang J. , Chen Chun‐Hsi V. , Fang Meiyu
Published: September 2014

Effective professional development enhances teachers’ instructional skills and in turn improves students’ learning. This study adopts a multilevel perspective to investigate the interplay of self‐directed learning (SDL), professional self‐awareness, and the supportive organizational climate in terms of their effects on the professional development of high school teachers in Taiwan. The study confirms that individual SDL and a supportive organizational climate positively affect teachers’ professional development. Specifically, professional self‐awareness mediates the relationship between SDL and professional development at the individual level. The cross‐level moderation of the supportive organizational climate is confirmed on the relationship between SDL and professional development. It is concluded that teachers with a greater degree of individual SDL and professional self‐awareness, combined with a supportive organizational climate, will be more involved in professional development. Implications and suggestions for future research are also discussed.
The effect of conservation practices in sloped croplands on soil hydraulic properties and root‐zone moisture dynamics
Authors: Lin Lirong , Chen Jiazhou
Published: September 2014

Rain‐induced erosion and short‐term drought are the two factors that limit the productivity of croplands in the red soil region of subtropical China. The objective of this study was to estimate the effects of conservation practices on hydraulic properties and root‐zone water dynamics of the soil. A 3‐year experiment was performed on a slope at Xianning. Four treatments were evaluated for their ability to reduce soil erosion and improve soil water conditions. Compared with no practices (CK) and living grass strips (GS), the application of polyacrylamide (PAM) significantly reduced soil crust formation during intense rainfall, whereas rice straw mulching (SM) completely abolished soil crust formation. The SM and PAM treatments improved soil water‐stable aggregates, with a redistribution of micro‐aggregates into macro‐aggregates. PAM and SM significantly increased the soil water‐holding capacity. These practices mitigated the degradation of the soil saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) during intense rainfalls. These methods increased soil water storage but with limited effects during heavy rainfalls in the wet period. In contrast, during the dry period, SM had the highest soil water storage, followed by PAM and CK. Grass strips had the lowest soil water storage because of the water uptake during the vigorous grass growth. A slight decline in the soil moisture resulted in a significant decrease in the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (Ku) of the topsoil. Therefore, the hydraulic conductivity in the field is governed by soil moisture, and the remaining soil moisture is more important than improving soil properties to resist short‐term droughts. As a result, SM is the most effective management practice when compared with PAM and GS, although they all protect the soil hydraulic properties during wet periods. These results suggest that mulching is the best strategy for water management in erosion‐threatened and drought‐threatened red soils. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Internal erosion in granular media: direct numerical simulations and energy interpretation
Authors: Sibille Luc , Lominé Franck , Poullain Philippe , Sail Yacine , Marot Didier
Published: September 2014

Internal erosion in soils is characterized by a first step of detachment of solid particles from the granular skeleton under the action of water seepage; then the detached particles are transported with the water flow. For some erosion processes, such as suffusion, transported particles may finally be redeposited within the interstitial space of the soil itself acting as a filter. This paper focuses on the analysis and the description of the two first steps of particle detachment and transport in the cases of erosion by suffusion and piping erosion. The analysis is mainly based on direct numerical simulations performed with a fully coupled discrete element–lattice Boltzmann method. Inter‐particle interactions occurring in the solid granular phase are described with the discrete element method, whereas dynamics of the water flow is solved with the lattice Boltzmann method. Simulation results show that internal erosion of the solid phase can be described either from the hydraulic shear stress or from the power expended by the water seepage. The latter description based on the flow power is finally compared with experimental results from laboratory tests. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reversible cholinesterase inhibitors as pre‐treatment for exposure to organophosphates: assessment using azinphos‐methyl
Authors: Petroianu Georg A. , Nurulain Syed M. , Hasan Mohamed Y. , Kuča Kamil , Lorke Dietrich E.
Published: September 2014

Pre‐treatment with reversible acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors before organophosphorous compound (OPC) exposure can reduce OPC‐induced mortality. However, pyridostigmine, the only substance employed for such prophylaxis, is merely efficacious against a limited number of OPCs. In search of more efficacious and broad‐range alternatives, we have compared in vivo the ability of five reversible AChE inhibitors (pyridostigmine, physostigmine, ranitidine, tacrine and K‐27) to reduce mortality induced by the OPC azinphos‐methyl. Protection was quantified using Cox analysis by determining the relative risk (RR) of death in rats that were administered these AChE inhibitors in equitoxic dosage (25% of LD01) 30 min before azinphos‐methyl exposure. Azinphos‐methyl‐induced mortality was significantly reduced by all five tested compounds as compared with the reference group that was only exposed to azinphos‐methyl without prior pre‐treatment (RR = 1). The most efficacious prophylactic agents were K‐27 (RR = 0.15) and physostigmine (RR = 0.21), being significantly more efficacious than ranitidine (RR = 0.62) and pyridostigmine (RR = 0.37). Pre‐treatment with tacrine (RR = 0.29) was significantly more efficacious than pre‐treatment with ranitidine, but the difference between tacrine and pyridostigmine was not significant. Our results indicate that prophylactic administration of the oxime K‐27 may be a promising alternative in cases of imminent OPC exposure. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
5‐Caffeoylquinic acid decreases diet‐induced obesity in rats by modulating PPARα and LXRα transcription
Authors: Huang Kang , Liang Xiu‐ci , Zhong Ying‐li , He Wan‐yan , Wang Zheng
Published: September 2014

Background

Chlorogenic acids (CGAs) are widely distributed in plant material, including foods and beverages. 5‐Caffeoylquinic acid (5‐CQA) is the most studied CGA, but the mechanism of its hypolipidaemic effect remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the effect of 5‐CQA on lipid metabolism in the liver of Sprague–Dawley rats fed a high‐fat diet (HFD).

Results

5‐CQA suppressed HFD‐induced increases in body weight and visceral fat‐pad weight, serum lipid levels, and serum and hepatic free fatty acids in a dose‐dependent manner. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction revealed that 5‐CQA altered the mRNA expression of the transcription factors peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α (PPARα) and liver X receptor α (LXRα) and target genes involved in hepatic fatty acid uptake, β‐oxidation, fatty acid synthesis, and cholesterol synthesis. Moreover, hepatic tissue sections from HFD‐fed rats showed many empty vacuoles, suggesting that liver cells were filled with more fat droplets. However, 5‐CQA significantly ameliorated this effect.

Conclusion

5‐CQA may improve lipid metabolism disorders by altering the expression of PPARα and LXRα, which are involved in multiple intracellular signalling pathways. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Yellow River Sediment as a Soil Amendment for Amelioration of Saline Land in the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Mao Weibing , Kang Shaozhong , Wan Yongshan , Sun Yuxia , Li Xiaohua , Wang Yifan
Published: September 2014

Soil salinization and sedimentation in the Yellow River Delta pose significant environmental concerns in China. This study demonstrated for the first time that the Yellow River sediment can be used as a soil amendment to remediate the salt‐affected soil. Four treatments including the control (CK), Yellow River sediment application at 70 Mg ha−1 (S70) and 140 Mg ha−1 (S140), and crop residue application at 3 Mg ha−1 (P3) were replicated in two blocks in the field. Cotton, one of the most common crops in the Yellow River Delta, was planted. Soil physical properties and electrical conductivity (EC) were measured. The results indicated that mixing the Yellow River sediment, a poorly graded sand, with the clayed saline soil improved soil texture, macroporosity, and saturated hydraulic conductivity. Mean EC of treated soils was significantly lower than for the control. Improved cotton emergence and stand establishment were observed along with a significant treatment effect on cotton yield. The effects of S140 and P3 on soil macroporosity, hydraulic conductivity, soil EC, and cotton growth were comparable. This study concluded that applying Yellow River sediment in the saline land is a technically feasible and environmentally sustainable approach for saline soil remediation in the Yellow River Delta. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymeric Anti‐HIV Therapeutics
Authors: Danial Maarten , Klok Harm‐Anton
Published: September 2014

The scope of this review is to highlight the application of polymer therapeutics in an effort to curb the transmission and infection of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Following a description of the HIV life cycle, the use of approved antiretroviral drugs that inhibit critical steps in the HIV infection process is highlighted. After that, a comprehensive overview of the structure and inhibitory properties of polymeric anti‐HIV therapeutic agents is presented. This overview will include inhibitors based on polysaccharides, synthetic polymers, dendritic polymers, polymer conjugates as well as polymeric DC‐SIGN antagonists. The review will conclude with a section that discusses the applications of polymers and polymer conjugates as systemic and topical anti‐HIV therapeutics.
Cold spraying of Cu‐Al‐Bronze for cavitation protection in marine environments
Authors: Krebs S. , Gaertner F. , Klassen T.
Published: September 2014

High strength metal coatings are promising for reducing the cavitation damage of ship rudders. Cold spraying offers the opportunity to produce coatings that have similar properties as respective bulk material. In this study, conditions for cold spraying CuAl10Fe5Ni5 bronze are evaluated for the use at ship rudder applications. The spray parameter sets were varied with respect to nozzle type, process gas pressure and temperature.

Single particle impact morphologies were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and categorized into different classes to obtain information on the deformation behavior. Within the selected parameter regime, coatings were processed with deposition efficiencies of up to 70%. The coating microstructures were analyzed by optical microscopy to gain information on spraying conditions for minimum porosity. For the higher parameter sets, porosities of less than 2% were obtained. Coating performance was investigated by cavitation test procedures. These first results show that cold sprayed bronze coatings still faces challenges with respect to powder properties. With further optimization, respective coatings could have a high potential for ensuring a good performance in rudder protection.
Dietary fat intake and risk for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Dong Jing , Beard John D. , Umbach David M. , Park YikYung , Huang Xuemei , Blair Aaron , Kamel Freya , Chen Honglei
Published: September 2014

Previous epidemiological studies have generated inconsistent results regarding the associations between dietary fat intakes and risk for Parkinson's disease (PD). We therefore prospectively examined these associations in the National Institutes of Health–American Association of Retired Persons (NIH‐AARP) Diet and Health Study. A 124‐item food frequency questionnaire was administered at baseline in1995 to 1996, and PD diagnosis was self‐reported at the follow‐up survey in 2004 to 2006. A total of 1,087 cases with a PD diagnosis between 2000 and 2006 and 299,617 controls were included in the analyses. Overall, intakes of fats and other macronutrients were not associated with PD risk. However, we found a weak positive association between n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and the risk for PD. After adjusting for potential confounders, the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) between extreme quintiles of n‐6 PUFA intake was 1.23 (95% CI = 1.02‐1.49, P for trend = 0.02). A similar association was observed for the intake of linoleic acid. Results were similar among men and among women. Our study suggests that fat intake in general is not related to the risk for PD. The weak positive association between intake of n‐6 PUFA and PD risk needs further investigation. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Insights on the relaxation of liposomes encapsulating paramagnetic Ln‐based complexes
Authors: Mulas Gilberto , Ferrauto Giuseppe , Dastrù Walter , Anedda Roberto , Aime Silvio , Terreno Enzo
Published: September 2014

Purpose: To describe and quantify the different relaxation mechanisms operating in suspensions of liposomes that encapsulate paramagnetic lanthanide(III) complexes. Theory and Methods: The transverse relaxation rate of lanthanide‐loaded liposomes receives contribution from the exchange between intraliposomal and bulk water protons, and from magnetic susceptibility effects. Phospholipids vesicles encapsulating different Ln(III)‐HPDO3A complexes (Ln = Eu, Gd, or Dy) were prepared using the conventional thin film rehydration method. Relaxation times (T1, T2, and T2*) were measured at 14 Tesla (T) and 25°C. The effect of compartmentalization of the paramagnetic agent inside the liposomal cavity was evaluated by means of an IRON‐modified MRI sequence. Results: NMR measurements demonstrated that Curie spin relaxation is the dominant contribution (> 90%) to the observed transverse relaxation rate of paramagnetic liposomes. This was further confirmed by MRI that showed the ability of the liposome entrapped lanthanide complexes to generate IRON‐MRI positive contrast in a size dependent manner. Conclusion: The Curie spin relaxation mechanism is by far the principal mechanism involved in the T2 shortening of the water protons in suspension of paramagnetic liposomes at 14T. The access to IRON contrast extends the potential of such nanosystems as MRI contrast agents. Magn Reson Med 74:468–473, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phenotypic variability and molecular genetics in proximal myotonic myopathy
Authors: Papadimas George Konstantinos , Kekou Kiriaki , Papadopoulos Constantinos , Kararizou Evangelia , Kanavakis Emmanuel , Manta Panagiota
Published: September 2014

Introduction: Myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2) is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder with (CCTG)n repeat expansion in intron 1 of the CNBP gene. Methods: We studied the first 16 Greek DM2 patients who had undergone thorough evaluation. Results: The age at diagnosis ranged from 38 to 69 years. The initial symptoms were proximal weakness, myalgias, and myotonia. Clinical myotonia was elicited in 10 patients, whereas electromyographic myotonic discharges were observed in almost all patients. Subcapsular cataract was frequently present, but cardiac arrhythmias were rare. Conclusions: In this study of Greek DM2 patients, proximal weakness was the most common initial symptom. Myalgias were also reported in a few patients, yet myotonia was not a major complaint. Although DM2 is considered relatively benign, there are patients who may be affected severely. Thus, a high index of suspicion must be maintained to make a timely diagnosis, especially in those of reproductive age. Muscle Nerve 51:686–691, 2015
Motor unit number estimation: A technology and literature review
Authors: Gooch Clifton L. , Doherty Timothy J. , Chan K. Ming , Bromberg Mark B. , Lewis Richard A. , Stashuk Dan W. , Berger Michael J. , Andary Michael T. , Daube Jasper R.
Published: September 2014

Introduction: Numerous methods for motor unit number estimation (MUNE) have been developed. The objective of this article is to summarize and compare the major methods and the available data regarding their reproducibility, validity, application, refinement, and utility.Methods: Using specified search criteria, a systematic review of the literature was performed. Reproducibility, normative data, application to specific diseases and conditions, technical refinements, and practicality were compiled into a comprehensive database and analyzed.Results: The most commonly reported MUNE methods are the incremental, multiple‐point stimulation, spike‐triggered averaging, and statistical methods. All have established normative data sets and high reproducibility. MUNE provides quantitative assessments of motor neuron loss and has been applied successfully to the study of many clinical conditions, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and normal aging.Conclusions: MUNE is an important research technique in human subjects, providing important data regarding motor unit populations and motor unit loss over time.Muscle Nerve50: 884–893, 2014
Diagnostic outcome of muscle biopsy
Authors: Shaibani Aziz , Jabari Duaa , Jabbour Moussa , Arif Chia , Lee Minjae , Rahbar Mohammad Hossein
Published: September 2014

Introduction: We reviewed the diagnostic yield of muscle biopsy according to the presence or absence of muscle weakness, hyperCKemia, and electromyogaphic (EMG) abnormalities. Methods: In a retrospective study, 698 muscle biopsy reports were analyzed. Logistic regression models for myopathy and specific myopathy were fit, and receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to assess prediction accuracy. The probability of finding specific myopathy was considered the main indication of a positive muscle biopsy. Results: Isolated hyperCKemia was poorly predictive of either myopathy or specific myopathy. Combined myopathic EMG, proximal weakness, and hyperCKemia were predictive. The predictability increased proportionally to the creatine kinase (CK) level in patients with proximal weakness and myopathic EMG. Cross validation showed accuracy around 70% for a probability threshold of 50%. Conclusions: The presence of hyperCKemia, proximal weakness, and myopathic EMG together were associated with highly positive diagnostic outcome of muscle biopsy. Isolated hyperCKemia had a poor diagnostic yield. Muscle Nerve 51:662–668, 2015
Testing the Feasibility of¡Cuídate!With Mexican and Central American Youth in a Rural Region of a Southern State
Authors: Larson Kim L. , Ballard Sharon M. , Nuncio Brenda J. , Swanson Melvin
Published: September 2014

Regions of the US with growing Latino populations are in need of culturally sensitive sexual risk reduction programs. A Latino community, a public school district, and a university in eastern North Carolina collaborated to test the feasibility of¡Cuídate!, a culturally tailored, evidence‐based sexual risk reduction program, with Mexican and Central American youth. Ten male and 10 female adolescents, ages 13–17 years, participated in the¡Cuídate!program and post‐program focus groups. Early adolescent boys and girls (ages 13–15) gained the most from this program. A safe environment facilitated healthy sexual communication, and condom skills‐building provided a context for shared partner responsibility. Grade‐level and gender differences were significant. Analysis of the focus group data identified three important messages: Everybody needs sex education, We like this program better because it is hands‐on, and I'm going to make better decisions about sex. The findings of this study support the need for community‐based interventions that ensure cultural respect, trust, and a safe environment in which to discuss sexual issues. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Epoxy/oil fly ash composites prepared through in situ polymerization: Enhancement of thermal and mechanical properties
Authors: Nagendiran Shanmugam , Badghaish Adel , Hussein Ibnelwaleed A. , Shuaib Abdelrahman Nasr , Furquan Sarfaraz Ahmed , Al‐Mehthel Mohammed H.
Published: September 2014

The utilization of oil fly ash (OFA) as a filler in polymer composites to enhance their strength and flow properties and reduce the cost of fabrication is a promising technique. OFA filled epoxy composites, based on bisphenol‐A liquid epoxy, were prepared via in situ co‐polymerization with isophorone diamine as a curing agent. In the present work, the possibility of using residual OFA (<30 μm) as filler in epoxy composites was studied using thermal, mechanical, and morphological characterization techniques. The results showed a significant improvement in the performance of epoxy composites containing OFA. In addition, OFA filled epoxy exhibited a higher resistance to degradation in acidic and basic environments when compared to unfilled epoxy. Statistical analysis tools were used to determine the significance of the improvements. It is proposed that up to 4 wt% of OFA can be used in epoxy industrial pipes to improve their corrosive chemical resistance properties without affecting their bulk physical properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:512–522, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Daily pain in adolescents with CF: Effects on adherence, psychological symptoms, and health‐related quality of life
Authors: Blackwell Laura S. , Quittner Alexandra L.
Published: September 2014

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive, life‐shortening disease currently treated symptomatically. Among the consequences of daily treatments and long‐term progression of the disease is significant discomfort and pain. This study measured pain systematically in adolescents with CF using a pain diary, and evaluated its associations with treatment adherence, psychological symptoms, and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL).

Methods

This study was part of a larger, multi‐center study. Ninety‐five adolescents with a mean age of 15.8 were enrolled. A total of 413 online pain diaries were completed for 6 days following a routine clinic visit. Diaries measured pain intensity, location, duration, affective ratings, and coping responses. Adherence to pulmonary medications was measured using prescription refill data; other measures included ratings of depression, anxiety and HRQOL.

Results

Pain was reported by 74.5% of participants, generally in the mild range, averaging 2.1 on a 10‐point scale. Daily pain ratings were highly variable both within and between participants. Pain was significantly associated with worse adherence, more psychological distress, and worse HRQOL.

Conclusions

Results indicated that pain is a common problem for adolescents with CF and negatively affects their disease management, psychological symptoms and health outcomes. Routine assessment of pain and systematic studies of interventions to treat pain are recommended. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:244–251. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The shrinking or disappearing observed treatment effect
Authors: Chuang‐Stein Christy , Kirby Simon
Published: September 2014

It is frequently noted that an initial clinical trial finding was not reproduced in a later trial. This is often met with some surprise. Yet, there is a relatively straightforward reason partially responsible for this observation. In this article, we examine this reason by first reviewing some findings in a recent publication in the Journal of the American Medical Association. To help explain the non‐negligible chance of failing to reproduce a previous positive finding, we compare a series of trials to successive diagnostic tests used for identifying a condition. To help explain the suspicion that the treatment effect, when observed in a subsequent trial, seems to have decreased in magnitude, we draw a conceptual analogy between phases II–III development stages and interim analyses of a trial with a group sequential design. Both analogies remind us that what we observed in an early trial could be a false positive or a random high. We discuss statistical sources for these occurrences and discuss why it is important for statisticians to take these into consideration when designing and interpreting trial results. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A mixture model using likelihood‐based and Bayesian approaches for identifying responders and non‐responders in longitudinal clinical trials
Authors: He Jiwei , Entsuah Richard
Published: September 2014

A longitudinal mixture model for classifying patients into responders and non‐responders is established using both likelihood‐based and Bayesian approaches. The model takes into consideration responders in the control group. Therefore, it is especially useful in situations where the placebo response is strong, or in equivalence trials where the drug in development is compared with a standard treatment. Under our model, a treatment shows evidence of being effective if it increases the proportion of responders or increases the response rate among responders in the treated group compared with the control group. Therefore, the model has flexibility to accommodate different situations. The proposed method is illustrated using simulation and a depression clinical trial dataset for the likelihood‐based approach, and the same depression clinical trial dataset for the Bayesian approach. The likelihood‐based and Bayesian approaches generated consistent results for the depression trial data. In both the placebo group and the treated group, patients are classified into two components with distinct response rate. The proportion of responders is shown to be significantly higher in the treated group compared with the control group, suggesting the treatment paroxetine is effective. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reconstructing height of an unknown point release using least‐squares data assimilation
Authors: Singh Sarvesh Kumar , Sharan Maithili , Singh Amit Kumar
Published: September 2014

Reckoning the height of a release in the source term estimation is important since a ground‐level approximation of the release leads to errors in capturing the actual extent of a plume. A least‐squares inversion technique, free from initial guess, is adapted here for the reconstruction of an elevated point release in a discretized space. Primarily, this involves estimation of the effective height of the release above the ground along with its location and strength from a limited set of noisy concentration measurements. The methodology is evaluated here with the nine runs from the Idaho diffusion experiment (1974) corresponding to low wind, stable conditions. Both real and model‐generated synthetic data are used to test the method. With synthetic data, the methodology can exactly reproduce the input source terms. With real data, the average release height is estimated as 3.1 m, which is very close to the effective release height (3 m) reported in the Idaho data. The release location is retrieved with an average error of 30 m, whereas the minimum distance between source and detectors is 100 m; strength is retrieved within a factor of two in all the runs. The deviations in the source parameters from their prescribed values are explained in the context of model representativeness, wind variability and available monitoring network. The sensitivity of the source term estimation is evaluated against several parameters: (i) receptors' height either neglected or duly taken as 0.76 m, (ii) measurement noises and (iii) number of receptors utilized in the inversion. In addition, the limitations and meteorological issues related to the inversion of an elevated release are highlighted.