bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The flammability of expandable polystyrene foams coated with melamine modified urea formaldehyde resin
Authors: Cao Bo , Gu Xiaoyu , Song Xiaohui , Jin Xiaodong , Liu Xinyu , Liu Xiaodong , Sun Jun , Zhang Sheng
Published: September 2016

Urea formaldehyde resin (UF) was modified by introducing melamine during the condensation in order to reduce the amount of free formaldehyde and increase the solid content. The melamine modified UF (MUF) was firstly mixed with intumescent flame retardant (IFR) and then coated on the surface of pre‐expanded polystyrene (PS) particles to prepare flame retardant expandable PS (EPS) foams. The flammability of EPS foam samples was characterized by limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL‐94 vertical burning and cone calorimeter tests, and the results indicated that the peak heat release rate was significantly reduced from 406 to 49 kW/m2 and LOI value could reach 36.3 with V‐0 rating in UL‐94 test after coated with IFR. The smoke density test indicated that the maximum smoke density was decreased by the addition of IFR. Thermal analysis suggested that the thermal stability and char formation were significantly improved by the presence of coated flame retardants. The residual char observation revealed that MUF and IFR were beneficial to form integrated char layers with hollow stents, which could be the main reason for the improvement of flame retardant properties. The mechanical properties of flame retardant EPS foams can still meet the standard requirements for industrial applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44423.
Impact of Anatomy Boot Camp on Students in a Medical Gross Anatomy Course
Authors: Herling Patrick J. , Mohseni B. Tanya , Hill Derek C. , Chelf Stacy , Rickert Jeffrey A. , Leo Jonathan T. , Langley Natalie R.
Published: September 2016

Lincoln Memorial University‐DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU‐DCOM) offers an optional three‐week summer Anatomy Boot Camp course (ABC) to facilitate students' transition into medical school and promote retention of anatomy subject matter. The pre‐matriculation program is a supplemental instruction course that utilizes a small group learning format. Boot camp instruction is led by teaching assistants and two anatomy professors. Enrollees gain early exposure to Medical Gross Anatomy (MGA) course subject matter, which is taught in the fall semester, and learn study skills necessary to excel in medical school. No grade is assigned for the course, therefore participants can study without the fear of potentially affecting grades. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the LMU‐DCOM ABC course using data from four consecutive summers. Independent two‐sample t‐tests were used to compare ABC to non‐ABC students for the following variables: incoming grade point average (GPA) and Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®) scores, MGA written and laboratory practical examination grades, and final MGA course grade. Additionally, a 26‐question survey was administered to 2012–2014 boot camp participants. There were no significant differences in incoming GPA and MCAT scores. However, boot campers scored significantly higher on the first two lecture and laboratory examinations (P < 0.05) for each year of the study. Thereafter scores varied less, suggesting a faster head start for boot camp participants. Mean MGA final grade was on average 3% higher for the boot camp cohort. The survey feedback supports that the ABC course assists with the academic and social transition into medical school. Anat Sci Educ 10: 215–223. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists.
Clinical outcomes associated with per‐operative discontinuation of aspirin in patients with coronary artery disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Luni Faraz Khan , Riaz Haris , Khan Abdur Rahman , Riaz Talha , Husnain Muhammad , Riaz Irbaz Bin , Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Taleb Mohammed , Kanjwal Yusuf , Cooper Christopher J. , Khuder Sadik A.
Published: September 2016

Background: Postoperative state is characterized by increased thrombotic risk by virtue of platelet activation. Whether aspirin ameliorates this risk in patients with established coronary artery disease undergoing cardiac or noncardiac surgery is unknown. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to compare the risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and the risk of bleeding in patients with early (3–5 or more days before surgery) vs. late discontinuation(<3–5 days)/no discontinuation of aspirin.

Methods: Multiple databases were searched from inception of these databases until March 2015 to identify studies that reported discontinuation of aspirin in patients undergoing surgery. The outcomes measured were all cause mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction and other relevant thrombotic events (MACE) which also may include, fatal and nonfatal MI, stent thrombosis and restenosis, stroke, perioperative cardiovascular complications (heart failure, MI, VTE, acute stroke) and perioperative bleeding during the perioperative period to up to 30 days after surgery.

Results: A total of 1,018 titles were screened, after which six observational studies met the inclusion criteria. Our analysis suggests that there is no difference in MACE with planned discontinuation of aspirin (OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 0.76–1.81; P = 0.05; I2 = 55%). Early discontinuation of aspirin showed a decreased risk of peri‐operative bleeding (OR 0.82, 95% CI = 0.67–0.99; P = 0.04; I2 = 42%).

Conclusion: Our analysis suggests that planned short‐term discontinuation in the appropriate clinical setting appears to be safe in the correct clinical setting with no increased risk of thrombotic events and with a decreased risk of bleeding. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hydrogen Peroxide used as a Solar Fuel in One‐Compartment Fuel Cells
Authors: Fukuzumi Shunichi , Yamada Yusuke
Published: September 2016

Clean and highly efficient production of solar fuels as well as effective methods to store solar fuels have long been sought to solve global energy and environmental issues. Among solar fuels such as gaseous hydrogen and carbon monoxide, aqueous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an ideal chemical for energy storage, because endothermic H2O2 decomposition produces only water and oxygen. In addition, H2O2 can be transported in plastic containers with a high energy density. H2O2 can be converted into electricity by using H2O2 fuel cells without a membrane and composed of an anode and a cathode, and they can selectively catalyze H2O2 oxidation or reduction. The one‐compartment structure without a membrane is more promising to develop low‐costing fuel cells than a two‐compartment structure with expensive membranes. This article provides a focused review of recent developments and future perspectives of H2O2 fuel cells without membranes, combined with H2O2 production from seawater and dioxygen in the air by utilizing solar energy.
Outstanding Low‐Temperature Capacitance of an AC–AC Supercapacitor in Acid Redox Electrolyte
Authors: Su Linghao , Gong Liangyu , Ma Chuanli , Wang Xiuxia , Sun Zongdong
Published: September 2016

The capacitive behavior of AC–AC supercapacitor (AC=activated carbon) at −18 °C are greatly improved by using an acid redox electrolyte comprising p‐phenylenediamine. By introducing p‐phenylenediamine into 38 % H2SO4 solution, the energy density at −18 °C is remarkably elevated to the level achievable at 23 °C in 38 % H2SO4.
Tuning Pickering Emulsions for Optimal Reaction and Filtration Conditions
Authors: Skale Tina , Stehl Dmitrij , Hohl Lena , Kraume Matthias , von Klitzing Regine , Drews Anja
Published: September 2016

The use of Pickering emulsions has recently received increased attention in catalyzed multiphase reactions. Here, the ultrafiltration of Pickering emulsions is studied for product separation and to retain the catalyst in the reactor. To find the optimum between a high specific surface area for high reaction rates and a suited drop size distribution for high permeate fluxes, the preparation method of Pickering emulsion was investigated. It was found that the stability of the emulsion during filtration does not only depend on the solid particle content, but also on the drop size distribution.
Effects of Argon as the primary impurity in anthropogenic carbon dioxide mixtures on the decompression wave speed
Authors: Botros Kamal K. , Geerligs John , Rothwell Brian , Robinson Thomas
Published: September 2016

In order to determine the material fracture resistance necessary to provide adequate control of the propagation of ductile fracture in a pipeline, a knowledge of the decompression wave speed (W) following the quasi‐instantaneous formation of an unstable, full‐bore rupture is necessary. The thermodynamic and fluid dynamics background of such calculations is understood, but predictions based on specific equations of state need to be validated against experimental measurements. A program of tests has been conducted using a specially constructed shock tube to determine the impact of impurities on W in carbon dioxide (CO2), so that the results can be compared to two existing theoretical models. In this paper, data and analysis results are presented for four tests involving simulated anthropogenic CO2 mixtures containing Argon (Ar) as the primary impurity. These mixtures represent typical oxy‐fuel CO2 capture technology with or without a purification train. Comparisons of the experimentally obtained W with predictions by two commonly used equation of state (EOS) models were also made. Generally, the GERG‐2008 EOS exhibits better overall performance than the Peng‐Robinson (PR) EOS when compared to the experimental results. The bubble point curve as predicted by GERG‐2008 was always at a higher pressure than that predicted by PR for these mixtures. This resulted in the plateau pressure prediction by GERG‐2008 being higher in cases where the isentropes intersect the phase envelope on the bubble point side. An example of pipeline material toughness required to arrest ductile fracture is presented which shows that prediction by GERG‐2008 is more conservative, and is therefore recommended.
Sound settlement: noise surpasses land cover in explaining breeding habitat selection of secondary cavity‐nesting birds
Authors: Kleist Nathan J. , Guralnick Robert P. , Cruz Alexander , Francis Clinton D.
Published: September 2016

Birds breeding in heterogeneous landscapes select nest sites by cueing in on a variety of factors from landscape features and social information to the presence of natural enemies. We focus on determining the relative impact of anthropogenic noise on nest site occupancy, compared to amount of forest cover, which is known to strongly influence the selection process. We examine chronic, industrial noise from natural gas wells directly measured at the nest box as well as site‐averaged noise, using a well‐established field experimental system in northwestern New Mexico. We hypothesized that high levels of noise, both at the nest site and in the environment, would decrease nest box occupancy. We set up nest boxes using a geospatially paired control and experimental site design and analyzed four years of occupancy data from four secondary cavity‐nesting birds common to the Colorado Plateau. We found different effects of noise and landscape features depending on species, with strong effects of noise observed in breeding habitat selection of Myiarchus cinerascens, the Ash‐throated Flycatcher, and Sialia currucoides, the Mountain Bluebird. In contrast, the amount of forest cover less frequently explained habitat selection for those species or had a smaller standardized effect than the acoustic environment. Although forest cover characterization and management is commonly employed by natural resource managers, our results show that characterizing and managing the acoustic environment should be an important tool in protected area management.
Effects of food abundance and early clutch predation on reproductive timing in a high Arctic shorebird exposed to advancements in arthropod abundance
Authors: Reneerkens Jeroen , Schmidt Niels Martin , Gilg Olivier , Hansen Jannik , Hansen Lars Holst , Moreau Jérôme , Piersma Theunis
Published: September 2016

Climate change may influence the phenology of organisms unequally across trophic levels and thus lead to phenological mismatches between predators and prey. In cases where prey availability peaks before reproducing predators reach maximal prey demand, any negative fitness consequences would selectively favor resynchronization by earlier starts of the reproductive activities of the predators. At a study site in northeast Greenland, over a period of 17 years, the median emergence of the invertebrate prey of SanderlingCalidris albaadvanced with 1.27 days per year. Yet, over the same period Sanderling did not advance hatching date. Thus, Sanderlings increasingly hatched after their prey was maximally abundant. Surprisingly, the phenological mismatches did not affect chick growth, but the interaction of the annual width and height of the peak in food abundance did. Chicks grew especially better in years when the food peak was broad. Sanderling clutches were most likely to be depredated early in the season, which should delay reproduction. We propose that high early clutch predation may favor a later reproductive timing. Additionally, our data suggest that in most years food was still abundant after the median date of emergence, which may explain why Sanderlings did not advance breeding along with the advances in arthropod phenology.
Improved nutrition cues switch from efficiency to luxury phenotypes for a long‐lived ungulate
Authors: Michel Eric S. , Flinn Emily B. , Demarais Stephen , Strickland Bronson K. , Wang Guiming , Dacus Chad M.
Published: September 2016

Cervid phenotype can be categorized as efficiency, which promotes survival but not extravagant growth, or luxury which promotes growth of large weaponry and body size. Although nutritional variation greatly influences these phenotypic forms, the potential for subspecies‐linked genetic or founder effects from restocking efforts of harvested species has not been eliminated. We measured intergenerational phenotypic change of males in response to improved nutrition in three captive‐reared populations of white‐tailed deer. Study animals were offspring of females captured from three regions displaying variation in antler and body size as well as nutritional variation. We fed all animals a high‐quality diet and measured antler and body size for two generations. We predicted that improved long‐term nutrition would cue a switch from efficiency to luxury phenotype for all populations and that regional compensation of antler and body size would occur. Improved nutrition positively influenced all measures of antler and body size; however, changes varied in magnitude. Antler size was more responsive than body size. Improved nutrition also facilitated regional compensation of antler size and partial compensation of body size. Our results show that improved long‐term nutrition cues a shift from efficiency to luxury phenotype in a long‐lived cervid with weaponry being more responsive than body size. Compensation of antler size suggests that weaponry is greatly influenced by nutrition and is not restricted by subspecies‐linked genetic or founder effects from restocking efforts related to our regional populations. Therefore, strategies to improve cervid antler and body size should include habitat management that elevates long‐term diet quality.
Cathodal transcranial direct‐current stimulation for treatment of drug‐resistant temporal lobe epilepsy: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zoghi Maryam , O'Brien Terence J. , Kwan Patrick , Cook Mark J. , Galea Mary , Jaberzadeh Shapour
Published: September 2016

Objective

To investigate the effect of cathodal transcranial direct‐current stimulation (c‐tDCS) on seizure frequency in patients with drug‐resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Method

Twenty‐nine patients with drug‐resistant TLE participated in this study. They were randomized to experimental or sham group. Twenty participants (experimental group) received within‐session repeated c‐tDCS intervention over the affected temporal lobe, and nine (sham group) received sham tDCS. Paired‐pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to assess short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) in primary motor cortex ipsilateral to the affected temporal lobe. SICI was measured from motor evoked potentials recorded from the contralateral first dorsal interosseous muscle. Adverse effects were monitored during and after each intervention in both groups. A seizure diary was given to each participant to complete for 4 weeks following the tDCS intervention. The mean response ratio was calculated from their seizure rates before and after the tDCS intervention.

Results

The experimental group showed a significant increase in SICI compared to the sham group (F = 10.3, p = 0.005). None of the participants reported side effects of moderate or severe degree. The mean response ratio in seizure frequency was −42.14% (standard deviation [SD] 35.93) for the experimental group and −16.98% (SD 52.41) for the sham group.

Significance

Results from this pilot study suggest that tDCS may be a safe and efficacious nonpharmacologic intervention for patients with drug‐resistant TLE. Further evaluation in larger double‐blind randomized controlled trials is warranted.
High efficiency thin‐film amorphous silicon solar cells
Authors: Ghahremani Ahmadreza , Fathy Aly E.
Published: September 2016

Enhancing light absorption within thin film amorphous silicon (a‐Si) solar cells should lead to higher efficiency. This improvement is typically done using various light trapping techniques such as utilizing textured back reflectors for pronounced light scattering within the cell thus achieving higher absorption. It is believed that embedding metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) inside the structure could increase light scattering. However, embedding MNPs can also cause significant structure defects and pronounced efficiency drop as well – it has been indicated by many experiments that disproved this belief. In search of ways to improve efficiency, we have investigated the impact of MNP's size, and location within the solar cell, in addition to the effect of defects, and doping levels on the overall efficiency. On the basis of our 3D multiphysics (optical‐electric) modeling, we developed a design guideline for embedding these MNPs and reducing the impact of defects created in the embedding process. The results of simulations were compared to relevant measured data, and it showed a good agreement. Subsequently, models were used to predict performance, and over 30% improvement in solar cell efficiency (~13% is predicted); which is beyond the state of the art. This was predicted by optimizing the size and location of the MNPs and tailoring the doping levels to have better forward light trapping and absorption.
Biogeomorphology: diverse, integrative and useful
Authors: Coombes Martin A.
Published: September 2016

Biogeomorphology is an umbrella term given to a highly‐active research area within geomorphology that focusses on the many and varied interactions and feedbacks between organisms and the physical Earth. In the last 25 years this interest has developed and diversified to include the direct and indirect influences of microorganisms, plants, animals and humans on earth surface processes and landform dynamics, and the roles of geomorphology in ecological functioning, resilience and evolution. This Commentary introduces a virtual special issue of 16 research papers and three ‘State of Science’ pieces, illustrating the diversity of the field, its continued theoretical and conceptual progression, and the applied relevance of biogeomorphological science in tackling environmental problems. Collectively, these papers demonstrate the merits of – and opportunities for – biogeomorphology as an inherently integrative science in understanding and managing the complexity of living landscapes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recovery of D‐limonene through moderate temperature extraction and pyrolytic products from orange peels
Authors: Negro Viviana , Ruggeri Bernardo , Mancini Giuseppe , Fino Debora
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

D‐limonene, a high‐value added molecule found in the flavedo of orange peels (about 0.7% w/w), is used in the nutritional, pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields. An accelerated moderate temperature extraction was investigated in order to recover D‐limonene. Furthermore, the residue from the extraction was used for energy recovery through the pyrolysis process.

RESULTS

The proposed extractive process was able to recover D‐limonene up to 0.48 ± 0.002% w/w (on a wet basis) from orange peels at the highest investigated temperature (130 °C for 60 min). The residual matrix was then subjected to a dehydration step, which was carried out at room temperature for 10 days, in order to decrease the moisture from the porous surface, and then to a pyrolysis process. The average chemical energy recovery efficiency (91% ± 0.04) suggested that the thermochemical process is suitable for biofuel production.

CONCLUSION

Orange peels can be exploited for the recovery of an important bio‐product and the residue can be used as feedstock for biofuels. This work has confirmed that accelerated extraction is more efficient than Soxhlet extraction (more than 68% w/w against 37% w/w of total D‐limonene, respectively), and that a pyrolysis process can be successfully performed on the residue. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Major pathogenic mechanisms in vascular dementia: Roles of cellular stress response and hormesis in neuroprotection
Authors: Calabrese Vittorio , Giordano James , Signorile Anna , Laura Ontario Maria , Castorina Sergio , De Pasquale Concetta , Eckert Gunter , Calabrese Edward J.
Published: September 2016

Vascular dementia (VaD), considered the second most common cause of cognitive impairment after Alzheimer disease in the elderly, involves the impairment of memory and cognitive function as a consequence of cerebrovascular disease. Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion is a common pathophysiological condition frequently occurring in VaD. It is generally associated with neurovascular degeneration, in which neuronal damage and blood‐brain barrier alterations coexist and evoke beta‐amyloid–induced oxidative and nitrosative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammasome‐ promoted neuroinflammation, which contribute to and exacerbate the course of disease. Vascular cognitive impairment comprises a heterogeneous group of cognitive disorders of various severity and types that share a presumed vascular etiology. The present study reviews major pathogenic factors involved in VaD, highlighting the relevance of cerebrocellular stress and hormetic responses to neurovascular insult, and addresses these mechanisms as potentially viable and valuable as foci of novel neuroprotective methods to mitigate or prevent VaD. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Early, focal changes in cartilage cellularity and structure following surgically induced meniscal destabilization in the mouse
Authors: David Michael A. , Smith Melanie K. , Pilachowski Rachael N. , White Avery T. , Locke Ryan C. , Price Christopher
Published: September 2016

Post‐traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) is an accelerated form of osteoarthritic cartilage degeneration affecting approximately 20–50% of patients experiencing joint injury. Currently PTOA is incurable; to better understand the etiology of PTOA and to develop rational anti‐osteoarthritic therapies, it is critical to understand the spatiotemporal initiation and the progression of PTOA. In this study, we employed semi‐quantitative histological scoring and quantitative damage analysis to examine disease progression in the murine destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) model of PTOA from early (3 days) through late‐ (112 days) disease timepoints. We observed significant, progressive articular cartilage (AC) cellular, and structural changes in the medial compartments of injured joints as early as 3 days. Spatially within the joint, cartilage damage (erosions) were observed anteriorly at 84 days. Furthermore, a drastic loss in chondrocyte number (by 3 days), surface damage (at 7 days), and cartilage erosion (at 84 days) was found to co‐localize to the specific region of the medial tibial plateau AC that experienced a change in meniscal coverage due to meniscal extrusion following DMM. Taken together, these results suggest that DMM‐mediated extrusion of the medial meniscus leads to rapid, spatially dependent changes in AC cellularity and structure, and precipitates the focal degeneration of cartilage associated with PTOA. Importantly, this study suggests that joint instability injuries may trigger immediate (<3 days) processes within a small population of chondrocytes that directs the initiation and progression of PTOA, and that development of chondroprotective strategies for preventing and/or delaying PTOA‐related cartilage degeneration are best targeted toward these immediately early processes following joint injury. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:537–547, 2017.
Influence of Board of Directors on Corporate Diversification: Evidence from India
Authors: Shukla Dhirendra Mani , Dwivedi Neeraj
Published: September 2016

Board diversity in terms of a board’s combined human and social capital has a positive influence on the level of corporate diversification.
Development of pea protein‐based bioplastics with antimicrobial properties
Authors: Perez‐Puyana Víctor , Felix Manuel , Romero Alberto , Guerrero Antonio
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

In the present work, bioplastics from renewable polymers were studied in order to reduce the huge generation of plastic wastes, causing an environmental problem that continues owing to the increasing demand for plastic products.

RESULTS

Bioplastics with much better antimicrobial properties, in particular against Gram‐positive bacteria, were obtained with the addition of nisin to the initial protein/plasticizer mixture. However, the addition of nisin produces more rigid but less deformable bioplastics (higher Young's modulus but lower strain at break).

CONCLUSION

The results obtained are useful to demonstrate the antimicrobial properties of pea protein‐based bioplastics by adding nisin and make them suitable as potential candidates to replace conventional plastics in food packaging. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterization of peptides from common bean protein isolates and their potential to inhibit markers of type‐2 diabetes, hypertension and oxidative stress
Authors: Mojica Luis , Luna‐Vital Diego A , González de Mejía Elvira
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

Diabetes and hypertension are diseases affecting a high proportion of the world population; the use of food‐based products such as common bean peptides may contribute to reduce the risk of complications associated to chronic diseases. The aim was to produce and characterize peptides from common bean protein isolates and evaluate their potential to inhibit markers of type‐2 diabetes, hypertension and oxidative stress.

RESULTS

Mexican black and Brazilian Carioca bean isolated proteins were characterized after pepsin/pancreatin digestion. Also, four synthesized pure peptides, originally found in these beans, were evaluated. Bean protein digests and pure peptides exerted dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPP‐IV) inhibition (IC50 = 0.03–0.87 mg dry weight (DW) mL−1). Lineweaver–Burk plots and computational modeling showed competitive inhibition of DPP‐IV. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition ranged from IC50 = 0.09 to 0.99 mg DW mL−1, and α‐glucosidase inhibition ranged from 36.3 to 50.1% mg−1 DW. Carioca Perola bean digested proteins presented the highest antioxidant capacity (269.3 mmol L−1 Trolox equivalent g−1 DW) as the peptide KTYGL (P > 0.05) with the most potent DPP‐IV and ACE inhibition.

CONCLUSION

Peptides from common bean have antidiabetic and antihypertensive potential regardless of their antioxidant capacity. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Separation of polyethylene glycols and maleimide‐terminated polyethylene glycols by reversed‐phase liquid chromatography under critical conditions
Authors: Wei Yanzhen , Zhuo Renxi , Jiang Xulin
Published: September 2016

The separation of polyethylene glycols and maleimide‐substituted polyethylene glycol derivatives based on the number of maleimide end‐groups under critical liquid chromatography conditions has been investigated on a reversed‐phase column. The critical solvent compositions for nonfunctional polyethylene glycols and bifunctional maleimide‐substituted polyethylene glycols were determined to be identical at about 40% acetonitrile in water on a reversed‐phase octadecyl carbon chain‐bonded silica column using mixtures of acetonitrile and water of varying composition as the mobile phase at 25°C. The maleimide‐functionalized polyethylene glycols were successfully separated according to maleimide functionality (with zero, one, two, or three maleimide end‐groups, respectively) under the critical isocratic elution conditions without obvious effect of molar mass. The separation was mainly due to the hydrophobic interaction between the maleimide end‐groups and the column packing. Off‐line matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry was used to identify the repeating units and, especially, the end‐groups of the maleimide‐substituted polyethylene glycols. Liquid chromatography analysis at critical conditions could provide useful information to optimize the synthesis of functional polyethylene glycols. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the baseline separation of maleimide‐functionalized polyethylene glycols based on the functionality independent of the molar mass without derivatization by isocratic elution.
Genetic variation near IRS1 is associated with adiposity and a favorable metabolic profile in U.S.Hispanics/Latinos
Authors: Qi Qibin , Gogarten Stephanie M. , Emery Leslie S. , Louie Tin , Stilp Adrienne , Cai Jianwen , Schneiderman Neil , Avilés‐Santa M. Larissa , Kaplan Robert C. , North Kari E. , Laurie Cathy C. , Loos Ruth J.F. , Isasi Carmen R.
Published: September 2016

Objective

Associations of IRS1 genetic variation with adiposity and metabolic profile in U.S. Hispanic/Latino individuals of diverse backgrounds were examined.

Methods

Previously genome‐wide association study‐identified IRS1 variants (rs2943650, rs2972146, rs2943641, and rs2943634) as related to body fat percentage (BF%) and multiple metabolic traits were tested among up to 12,730 adults (5,232 men; 7,515 women) from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos.

Results

The C‐allele (frequency = 26%) of rs2943650 was significantly associated with higher BF% overall (β = 0.34 ± 0.11% per allele; P = 0.002) and in women (β = 0.41 ± 0.14% per C‐allele; P = 0.003), but not in men (β = 0.28 ± 0.18% per C‐allele; P = 0.11), though there was no significant sex difference. Using the inverse normal‐transformed data to compare effect sizes, it was found that the association with BF% was stronger in Hispanic/Latino women than that previously reported in European women (β = 0.054 ± 0.018SD vs. β = 0.008 ± 0.011SD per C‐allele; P = 0.03). The BF%‐increasing allele of rs2943650 was significantly associated with lower levels of fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, hemoglobin A1c, and triglycerides and higher high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study confirmed and extended previous findings of IRS1 variation associated with increased adiposity but a favorable metabolic profile in U.S. Hispanics/Latinos, with a relatively stronger genetic effect on BF% in Hispanic/Latino women compared with European women.
High‐fat diet‐induced downregulation of anorexic leukemia inhibitory factor in the brain stem
Authors: Licursi Maria , Alberto Christian O. , Dias Alex , Hirasawa Kensuke , Hirasawa Michiru
Published: September 2016

Objective

High‐fat diet (HFD) is known to induce low‐grade hypothalamic inflammation. Whether inflammation occurs in other brain areas remains unknown. This study tested the effect of short‐term HFD on cytokine gene expression and identified leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) as a responsive cytokine in the brain stem. Thus, functional and cellular effects of LIF in the brain stem were investigated.

Methods

Male rats were fed chow or HFD for 3 days, and then gene expression was analyzed in different brain regions for IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and LIF. The effect of intracerebroventricular injection of LIF on chow intake and body weight was also tested. Patch clamp recording was performed in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS).

Results

HFD increased pontine TNF‐α mRNA while downregulating LIF in all major parts of the brain stem, but not in the hypothalamus or hippocampus. LIF injection into the cerebral aqueduct suppressed food intake without conditioned taste aversion, suggesting that LIF can induce anorexia via lower brain regions without causing malaise. In the NTS, a key brain stem nucleus for food intake regulation, LIF induced acute changes in neuronal excitability.

Conclusions

HFD‐induced downregulation of anorexic LIF in the brain stem may provide a permissive condition for HFD overconsumption. This may be at least partially mediated by the NTS.
Maintaining mental health and function for the long run in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Smith Beth A. , Georgiopoulos Anna M. , Quittner Alexandra L.
Published: September 2016

Research shows that individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and their families experience significant emotional morbidity. In addition to distress, worry, and grief, high rates of clinically significant symptoms of depression and anxiety have been found in both individuals with CF and parents. These disorders have a major impact on the person's functioning, and that of their family, and adversely impact the capacity to cope with the burden of CF and adhere to prescribed treatments. Despite growing recognition that mental health care is an essential component of comprehensive CF care, evidence suggests many patients and their families do not receive needed support and mental health interventions. Clinical practice guidelines for screening and treating depression and anxiety in individuals with CF have been developed by The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the European Cystic Fibrosis Society in response to this need. This review highlights that the optimum care for individuals with CF and their families incorporates mental health in routine CF care. Addressing mental health could substantially improve physical and mental health outcomes and the functioning of individuals with CF and their families. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:S71–S78. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Toward cost‐effective replica placements in cloud storage systems with QoS‐awareness
Authors: Zeng Lingfang , Xu Shijie , Wang Yang , Kent Kenneth B. , Bremner David , Xu Chengzhong
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we propose a simulation model to study real‐world replication workflows for cloud storage systems. With this model, we present three new methods to maximize the storage space usage during replica creation, and two novel QoS aware greedy algorithms for replica placement optimization. By using a simulation method, our algorithms are evaluated, through a comparison with the existing placement algorithms, to show that (i) a more evenly distributed replicas for a data set can be achieved by using round‐robin methods in replica creation phase and (ii) the two proposed greedy algorithms, named GS_QoS and GS_QoS_C1, not only have more economical results than those from Chen et al., but also guarantee the QoS for clients. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role hazard between supply chain partners in an institutionally fragmented market
Authors: Dong Maggie Chuoyan , Ju Min , Fang Yulin
Published: September 2016

A major challenge to supply chain management in emerging markets is the relational coordination problem arising from variations in sub‐national institutions in which partners are situated. This study investigates role hazard, a critical yet understudied relational coordination problem. Drawing on role and institutional theories, we examine role ambiguity and role conflict as two facets of role hazard between buyer and supplier, their institutional source, performance outcomes, and firms’ action alignment mechanisms as potential remedies. A dyadic survey of buyers and suppliers in China reveals that both role ambiguity and role conflict can result from sub‐national institutional distance and jeopardize supply chain performance. The results also suggest that supply chain partners in different sub‐national institutions can mitigate role hazard through continuous information sharing and dynamic adaptation. This study provides novel insights into how buyers and suppliers can enhance their relational coordination in emerging markets by reducing role hazard caused by sub‐national institutional distance.
Tibial Tuberosity Avulsion Fracture and Patellar Tendon Avulsion: A Case Report
Authors: Yan Tai Diane Hei , Bong Lee Kin , Fai Wong Kwok
Published: September 2016

A case with simultaneous tibial tuberosity fracture and patellar tendon avulsion in a 16-year-old boy is presented. Surgery was performed for open reduction, screw fixation and patellar tendon repair, and protected with a wire loop to restore the extensor mechanism. The wire loop was removed at 2 months postoperatively. The fracture healed at 5 months after surgery and the patient regained the full range of movement of the knee at 5 months.
Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism in Transgender Women Receiving Oral Estradiol
Authors: Arnold Justin D. , Sarkodie Eleanor P. , Coleman Megan E. , Goldstein Deborah A.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

One of the most serious known adverse effects of feminizing cross-sex hormone therapy (CSHT) is venous thromboembolism (VTE); however, no study has assessed the incidence of VTE from the hormone therapies used in the United States because previous publications on this topic have originated in Europe. CSHT in the United States typically includes estradiol with the antiandrogen spironolactone, whereas in Europe estradiol is prescribed with the progestin cyproterone acetate.

Aim

To estimate the incidence of VTE from the standard feminizing CSHTs used in the United States.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of transgender women who had been prescribed oral estradiol at a District of Columbia community health center was performed.

Main Outcome Measure

The primary outcomes of interest were deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary emboli.

Results

From January 1, 2008 through March 31, 2016, 676 transgender women received oral estradiol-based CSHT for a total of 1,286 years of hormone treatment and a mean of 1.9 years of CSHT per patient. Only one individual, or 0.15% of the population, sustained a VTE, for an incidence of 7.8 events per 10,000 person-years.

Conclusion

There was a low incidence of VTE in this population of transgender women receiving oral estradiol.
Hidden diversity in Thyridaria and a new circumscription of the Thyridariaceae
Authors: Jaklitsch W.M. , Voglmayr H.
Published: September 2016

A multigene analysis of a combined ITS-LSU-SSU-rpb2-tef1 sequence data matrix was applied to infer the phylogenetic position of the genus Thyridaria in the Pleosporales. The generic type of Thyridaria, T. broussonetiae (syn. T. incrustans),
is situated in a clade currently named Roussoellaceae, which becomes a synonym of Thyridariaceae. However, Thyridaria rubronotata does not belong to this clade, but is here recognised as Cyclothyriella rubronotata in its own family Cyclothyriellaceae. The
Thyridariaceae contain the genera Thyridaria, Roussoella, Roussoellopsis, Neoroussoella and the new genus Parathyridaria. Roussoella acaciae is combined in Thyridaria and Roussoella percutaenea in Parathyridaria. Ohleria
modesta and an additional new thyridaria-like genus, Hobus, are found to represent isolated lineages with unresolved phylogenetic affinites within the Pleosporales. For Ohleria the new family Ohleriaceae is established. Melanomma fuscidulum belongs to Nigrograna,
and three new species are described in this genus. A strain named Biatriospora marina clusters with Nigrograna. Based on the newly recognised species in Nigrograna, morphology and ecology do in no way correlate among these genera, therefore we erect the new family Nigrogranaceae
for Nigrograna and recommend to discontinue the use of the family name Biatriosporaceae until fresh material of B. marina becomes available for sequencing.
Impact of ocean forcing on the Aurora Basin in the 21st and 22nd centuries
Authors: Sun S. , Cornford S. L. , Gwyther D. E. , Gladstone R. M. , Galton-Fenzi B. K. , Zhao L. , Moore J. C.
Published: September 2016

The grounded ice in the Totten and Dalton glaciers is an essential component of the buttressing for the marine-based Aurora basin, and hence their stability is important to the future rate of mass loss from East Antarctica. Totten and Vanderford glaciers are joined by a deep east-west running subglacial trench between the continental ice sheet and Law Dome, while a shallower trench links the Totten and Dalton glaciers. All three glaciers flow into the ocean close to the Antarctic circle and experience ocean-driven ice shelf melt rates comparable with the Amundsen Sea Embayment. We investigate this combination of trenches and ice shelves with the BISICLES adaptive mesh ice-sheet model and ocean-forcing melt rates derived from two global climate models. We find that ice shelf ablation at a rate comparable with the present day is sufficient to cause widespread grounding line retreat in an east-west direction across Totten and Dalton glaciers, with projected future warming causing faster retreat. Meanwhile, southward retreat is limited by the shallower ocean facing slopes between the coast and the bulk of the Aurora sub-glacial trench. However the two climate models produce completely different future ice shelf basal melt rates in this region: HadCM3 drives increasing sub-ice shelf melting to ~2150, while ECHAM5 shows little or no increase in sub-ice shelf melting under the two greenhouse gas forcing scenarios.
Observations on the Ethical and Social Aspects of Disorders of Consciousness
Authors: Racine Eric , Rodrigue Catherine , Bernat James L. , Riopelle Richard , Shemie Sam D.
Published: September 2016

The care of chronically unconscious patients raises vexing medical, ethical, and social questions concerning diagnosis, prognosis, communication with family members, and decision making, including the withdrawal of life support. We provide updates on major controversies surrounding disorders of consciousness. Issues such as withdrawal of artificial nutrition and hydration – which had been considered “settled” by many in the medical, legal and ethical communities – have resurfaced under the pressure of social groups and religious authorities. Some assumptions about the level of awareness and the prognosis of vegetative state and minimal conscious patients are questioned by advances in clinical care because of insights produced by neuroscience research techniques, particularly functional neuroimaging. Both the clinical and neuroscience dimensions of disorders of consciousness raise complex issues such as resource allocation and high levels of diagnostic inaccuracies (at least, for the vegetative state). We conclude by highlighting areas needing further research and collaboration.
Diet quality as measured by the Diet Quality Index–International is associated with prospective changes in body fat among Canadian children
Authors: Setayeshgar Solmaz , Maximova Katerina , Ekwaru John Paul , Gray-Donald Katherine , Henderson Mélanie , Paradis Gilles , Tremblay Angelo , Veugelers Paul
Published: September 2016

Objective

To quantify the association of dietary quality with prospective changes in adiposity.

Design

Children participating in the QUALITY (QUebec Adipose and Lifestyle InvesTigation in Youth) study underwent examination at baseline and at 2-year follow-up. Dietary quality was assessed by the Diet Quality Index–International (DQII) using three non-consecutive 24 h diet recalls at baseline. The DQII has four main categories: dietary adequacy, variety, moderation and overall balance. Fat mass index (FMI; [fat mass (kg)]/[height (m)]2), central FMI (CFMI; [trunk fat mass (kg)]/[height (m)]2), percentage body fat (%BF; [total fat mass (kg)]/[total mass (kg)]) and percentage central BF (%CBF; [trunk fat mass (kg)]/[total mass (kg)]) were assessed through dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Setting

Children were selected from schools in the greater Montreal, Sherbrooke and Quebec City metropolitan areas between 2005 and 2008, Quebec, Canada.

Subjects

A total of 546 children aged 8–10 years, including 244 girls and 302 boys.

Results

Regression analysis adjusting for age, sex, energy intake, physical activity and Tanner stage revealed that every 10-unit improvement in overall DQII score was associated with lower gain in CFMI (β=−0·08; 95 % CI −0·17, −0·003) and %BF (β=−0·55; 95 % CI −1·08, −0·02). Each unit improvement in dietary adequacy score was associated with lower gain in FMI (β=−0·05; 95 % CI −0·08, −0·008), CFMI (β=−0·03; 95 % CI −0·05, −0·007), %BF (β=−0·15; 95 % CI −0·28, −0·03) and %CBF (β=−0·09; 95 % CI −0·15, −0·02).

Conclusions

Promotion of dietary quality and adequacy may reduce weight gain in childhood and prevent chronic diseases later in life.
Distal airway epithelial progenitor cells are radiosensitive to High-LET radiation
Authors: McConnell Alicia M. , Konda Bindu , Kirsch David G. , Stripp Barry R.
Published: September 2016

Exposure to high-linear energy transfer (LET) radiation occurs in a variety of situations, including charged particle radiotherapy, radiological accidents, and space travel. However, the extent of normal tissue injury in the lungs following high-LET radiation exposure is unknown. Here we show that exposure to high-LET radiation led to a prolonged loss of in vitro colony forming ability by airway epithelial progenitor cells. Furthermore, exposure to high-LET radiation induced clonal expansion of a subset of progenitor cells in the distal airway epithelium. Clonal expansion following high-LET radiation exposure was correlated with elevated progenitor cell apoptosis, persistent γ-H2AX foci, and defects in mitotic progression of distal airway progenitors. We discovered that the effects of high-LET radiation exposure on progenitor cells occur in a p53-dependent manner. These data show that high-LET radiation depletes the distal airway progenitor pool by inducing cell death and loss of progenitor function, leading to clonal expansion. Importantly, high-LET radiation induces greater long-term damage to normal lung tissue than the relative equivalent dose of low-LET γ-rays, which has implications in therapeutic development and risk assessment.