bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential roles of microRNAs and their target genes in human multiple myeloma
Authors: Yang Yong , Lin Jisheng , Ma Zhao , Li Jinjun , Li Dong , Wang Bingqiang , Fei Qi
Published: May 2017

Objectives

The etiology of multiple myeloma (MM) is unknown and it remains incurable. We sought to elucidate the mechanisms underlying miRNAs involvement in MM pathogenesis.

Methods

Public mRNA and miRNA expression datasets for MM were collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. By integrated bioinformatics analysis, the expression signatures were identified and the miRNA‐mRNA interaction network was constructed. The potential functions of target genes were then explored by functional enrichment analysis.

Results

Totally, 839 differentially expressed mRNAs and six differentially expressed miRNAs were identified. The context of miRNAs‐mediated genes regulatory network consisted of 288 possible miRNA‐mRNA target pairs. The hub miRNA was hsa‐miR‐92a, which can serve as the indicator for MM disease status. Another miRNA, hsa‐miR‐148a, could be useful for prognosis of MM. Functional annotation revealed that the miRNA targets may play important roles in viral infection and proteasome. Moreover, miRNA targets may be involved in renal cell carcinoma and other nervous system disease such as Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, which may be subsequent complications of MM.

Conclusions

Infections could be a leading cause for the morbidity of MM patients. The crucial protein degradation machinery may be essential in the pathogenesis of MM.
Quantifying predator dependence in the functional response of generalist predators
Authors: Novak Mark , Wolf Christopher , Coblentz Kyle E. , Shepard Isaac D.
Published: May 2017

A long‐standing debate concerns how functional responses are best described. Theory suggests that ratio dependence is consistent with many food web patterns left unexplained by the simplest prey‐dependent models. However, for logistical reasons, ratio dependence and predator dependence more generally have seen infrequent empirical evaluation and then only so in specialist predators, which are rare in nature. Here we develop an approach to simultaneously estimate the prey‐specific attack rates and predator‐specific interference (facilitation) rates of predators interacting with arbitrary numbers of prey and predator species in the field. We apply the approach to surveys and experiments involving two intertidal whelks and their full suite of potential prey. Our study provides strong evidence for predator dependence that is poorly described by the ratio dependent model over manipulated and natural ranges of species abundances. It also indicates how, for generalist predators, even the qualitative nature of predator dependence can be prey‐specific.
Weather as a risk factor for epileptic seizures: A case‐crossover study
Authors: Rakers Florian , Walther Mario , Schiffner Rene , Rupprecht Sven , Rasche Marius , Kockler Michael , Witte Otto W. , Schlattmann Peter , Schwab Matthias
Published: May 2017

Objective

Most epileptic seizures occur unexpectedly and independently of known risk factors. We aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of patients’ perception that weather is a risk factor for epileptic seizures.

Methods

Using a hospital‐based, bidirectional case‐crossover study, 604 adult patients admitted to a large university hospital in Central Germany for an unprovoked epileptic seizure between 2003 and 2010 were recruited. The effect of atmospheric pressure, relative air humidity, and ambient temperature on the onset of epileptic seizures under temperate climate conditions was estimated.

Results

We found a close‐to‐linear negative correlation between atmospheric pressure and seizure risk. For every 10.7 hPa lower atmospheric pressure, seizure risk increased in the entire study population by 14% (odds ratio [OR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.28). In patients with less severe epilepsy treated with one antiepileptic medication, seizure risk increased by 36% (1.36, 1.09–1.67). A high relative air humidity of >80% increased seizure risk in the entire study population by up to 48% (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.11–1.96) 3 days after exposure in a J‐shaped association. High ambient temperatures of >20°C decreased seizure risk by 46% in the overall study population (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.32–0.90) and in subgroups, with the greatest effects observed in male patients (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.14–0.74).

Significance

Low atmospheric pressure and high relative air humidity are associated with an increased risk for epileptic seizures, whereas high ambient temperatures seem to decrease seizure risk. Weather‐dependent seizure risk may be accentuated in patients with less severe epilepsy. Our results require further replication across different climate regions and cohorts before reliable clinical recommendations can be made.
Nutrition considerations for the aged horse
Authors: Jarvis N. , Paradis M. R. , Harris P.
Published: May 2017

As the proportion of aged horses within the general equine population appears to be increasing in theUKand other developed countries, it is important to be aware of the changing dietary requirements associated with the ageing process and age‐related diseases. This review provides guidelines for optimal nutrition of the older horse with practical approaches to improve or maintain body condition and support general health.
Description of the incidence, clinical presentation and outcome of proximal limb and pelvic fractures in Hong Kong racehorses during 2003–2014
Authors: McGlinchey L. , Hurley M. J. , Riggs C. M. , Rosanowski S. M.
Published: May 2017

Background

Few studies have described incidences of proximal limb and pelvic fracture (PLPF) in Thoroughbred racehorses occurring on race day and during training. Information regarding clinical presentations and future racing careers in cases ofPLPFis limited.

Objectives

To describe the incidence, clinical presentation and outcome ofPLPFsustained by horses in racing and training at the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) between 2003 and 2014.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Horses withPLPFconfirmed by nuclear scintigraphy, ultrasonography, radiography or post‐mortem examination were identified using veterinary clinical records. Training and racing data for case horses were described. Incidences of fractures were estimated per 1000 horses in training and per 1000 race starts for fractures sustained during racing. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the study population.

Results

A total of 129 instances ofPLPFwere sustained by 108 racehorses. The most commonly fractured bone was the humerus (49.6%), followed by the tibia (29.4%). Nine horses sustained fatal fractures, eight of which occurred during racing. The incidence of fracture during racing was 0.30 per 1000 starts. Two‐thirds of fractures occurred during training. The majority of horses presented with grade 3 lameness (n = 42 of 119 injury events, 35.3%). All horses presenting with grade 5 lameness sustained fatal injuries. Following noncatastrophic injury, all horses underwent box rest and 81 horses subsequently resumed racing; 45 of these won a race. Horses were retired at a median of 25 months (interquartile range: 15–36 months) after injury.

Main limitations

Protocols for resting non‐training racehorses at theHKJCand for recording rehabilitation regimens post‐injury prevented the calculation of horse days at risk.

Conclusions

The incidence ofPLPFat theHKJCis low. Non‐fatalPLPFis not necessarily a career‐ending injury and many horses resume racing successfully following conservative treatment.
A modified loading method for separating the effect of residual stress on fatigue crack growth rate of welded joints
Authors: Xu Y. , Bao R. , Liu H. , Zhang X.
Published: May 2017

A novel loading method is proposed to remove the effect of residual stress on measured fatigue crack growth rate in welded joint, using which the influence of empirical crack growth rate correlation equations on the results can be avoided. The total stress intensity factor range and the effective stress ratios corresponding to the combined effect of applied and residual stress are kept constant during the fatigue crack growth test, by changing the applied maximum and minimum loads with the increase of crack length and changes in residual stress based on the superposition rule. The feasibility of the proposed method was validated by tests of compact tension specimens containing residual stresses introduced by four‐point bending. The loading method was then applied to a test of welded compact tension specimen with coupled effect of residual stress and microstructure change on fatigue crack growth rate. The fluctuation in the separated crack growth rate reflects the effect of microstructure change on fatigue crack growth rate.
Exploring Flipped Classroom Effects on Second Language Learners’ Cognitive Processing
Authors: Kim Jeong‐eun , Park Hyunjin , Jang Mijung , Nam Hosung
Published: May 2017

This study investigated the cognitive effects of the flipped classroom approach in a content‐based instructional context by comparing second language learners’ discourse in flipped vs. traditional classrooms in terms of (1) participation rate, (2) content of comments, (3) reasoning skills, and (4) interactional patterns. Learners in two intact classes participated and were taught in either a flipped classroom (n = 26) or a traditional classroom (n = 25). In the flipped class, the learners listened to an online lecture before class and participated in a small‐group discussion in class. In contrast, the learners in the traditional class listened to a teacher‐led lecture in class and then immediately participated in a small‐group discussion in class. The learners’ discussions were audiorecorded. Quantitative and qualitative analyses indicated no difference in participation rates; however, the students in the flipped classroom produced more cognitive comments involving deeper information processing and higher‐order reasoning skills and showed more cohesive interactional patterns than did the students in the traditional classroom. These results indicate that flipped classrooms can effectively promote higher‐order thinking processes and in‐depth, cohesive discussion in the content‐based second language.
Net ecosystem fluxes and composition of biogenic volatile organic compounds over a maize field–interaction of meteorology and phenological stages
Authors: Wiß Felix , Ghirardo Andrea , Schnitzler Jörg‐Peter , Nendel Claas , Augustin Jürgen , Hoffmann Mathias , Grote Rüdiger
Published: May 2017

Bioenergy crop production is rapidly expanding in Europe, and the potential emissions of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) might change the chemical composition of the atmosphere, influencing in turn air quality and regional climate. The environmental impacts of bioenergy crops on air chemistry are difficult to assess due to a lack of accurate field observations. Therefore, we studied BVOC fluxes from a bioenergy maize field in North‐Eastern Germany throughout the entire reproductive growth stage of the plants. Combining automated large chambers and proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR‐MS), we successfully measured fluxes of the highly reactive hydrocarbons monoterpenes (MTs) and sesquiterpenes (SQTs), together with several other BVOCs, including alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, benzenoids, and fatty acid derivatives. Emissions of MTs and SQTs were relatively high (17.0% and 3.6% of total mean molar BVOC emission, respectively) compared to methanol emissions (17.6%). Seasonal MT and SQT fluxes were clearly associated with the flowering phase, originating mainly from the flowering tissues as shown in additional laboratory experiments. From the observations of CO2 net ecosystem exchange and evapotranspiration rates, we could exclude heat and drought stress‐induced BVOC emissions. Standard emission factors calculated for all compounds, chemical groups, and growth stages, showed that the temperature dependency of volatile terpenoid fluxes decreased distinctively with proceeding development stage. The results indicate that emissions from large‐scale bioenergy maize fields should be better differentiated and considered in regional estimates of aerosol formation. For the implementation of such relation into biogeochemical modelling, it should be considered that not only seasonal weather development but also phenological growth stages are determining the BVOC patterns and emission potentials.
Comprehensive Headache Experience in Collegiate Student‐Athletes: An Initial Report From the NCAA Headache Task Force
Authors: Seifert Tad , Sufrinko Alicia , Cowan Robert , Scott Black W. , Watson Dave , Edwards Bill , Livingston Scott , Webster Keith , Akers David , Lively Mathew , Kontos Anthony P.
Published: May 2017

Background

The prevalence of primary headache disorders in the general population provides a unique challenge in the evaluation of headache occurring in the context of sport. Despite a wealth of studies exploring the epidemiology of headache in the layperson, little is known about the prevalence and nature of headaches in collegiate student‐athletes. These scenarios are challenging in the return to play context, as it is often unclear whether an athlete has an exacerbation of a primary headache disorder, new onset headache unrelated to trauma, or has suffered a concussive injury.

Purpose

To establish the prevalence and nature of headaches in collegiate student‐athletes.

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

This cross‐sectional survey evaluated the characteristics and prevalence of headache in 834 student‐athletes from four NCAA Division‐I institutions. Because headache occurrence may vary by sport (collision, contact, non‐contact), by sex, and medical history, our sample included male and female athletes in a variety of sports, with differing degrees of contact exposure. The 20 question survey collected data on personal and family history of headache, as well as concussion history.

Results

A total of 23.7% (n = 198) of participants reported having a personal history of migraine, 25.2% (n = 210) history of sinus headache, and 12.3% (n = 103) history of tension type headache. Among athletes with a prior history of concussion, 46.3% (n = 25) of females reported a history of migraine, while only 32.2% of males reported history of migraine (χ2 = 3.421, P = .064).

Conclusions

The etiology of increased prevalence of migraine in our study is unclear. Whether this is due to increased awareness of headache disorders, a consequence of contact exposure, or a predisposition for migraine development in this age group remains unclear. Further studies are indicated.
Effectiveness of XP‐endo Finisher and XP‐endo Finisher R in removing root filling remnants: a micro‐CT study
Authors: Silva E. J. N. L. , Belladonna F. G. , Zuolo A. S. , Rodrigues E. , Ehrhardt I. C. , Souza E. M. , De‐Deus G.
Published: May 2017

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of filling material removal from oval‐shaped canals after the use of supplementary files (XP‐endo Finisher and XP‐endo Finisher R) through microcomputed tomographic (micro‐CT) analysis.

Methodology

The root canals of twenty maxillary single‐rooted teeth were prepared with Reciproc R25 files and filled with gutta‐percha and AH Plus sealer using the continuous wave of condensation technique. The root canals were then retreated using Reciproc R25 and R40 instruments. After this, the specimens were assigned to two groups according to the supplementary cleaning approach, using XP‐endo Finisher and XP‐endo Finisher R. The surface area and volume of removed filling material was assessed using micro‐CT imaging before and after the use of the XP‐endo instruments. Data were analysed statistically with a significance level of 5%.

Results

Removal of filling material at 66.8% and 59.4% in volume and 67.3% and 61.4% in surface area was seen for the XP‐endo Finisher and the XP‐endo Finisher R files, respectively. The amount of filling material removed by both supplementary files was highly significant (P = 0.000). No significant difference in the percentage of removed filling material was detected for the XP‐endo instruments (P = 0.636 for volume and P = 0.667 for surface area).

Conclusions

Both XP‐endo files were equally effective in the removal of remaining filling material from straight oval‐shaped canals. None of the instruments were able to remove all the residual filling material.
Sensory characteristics and consumer acceptance of black walnut gelato
Authors: Lynch Catherine , Koppel Kadri , Reid William
Published: May 2017

The objective of this study was to determine the sensory characteristics and consumer acceptance of gelato made with six black walnut cultivars: Davidson, Emma K, Football, Pounds, Sparks 127, and Vandersloot. The descriptive sensory panel found that black walnut ID, overall nutty and sour (P ≤ 0.05) attributes were different among gelato samples. The gelato samples were evaluated by 103 consumers for overall liking. Three clusters of consumers were found: one cluster of consumers (n = 29) liked milder black walnut flavour, while another (n = 20) liked more intense black walnut and overall nutty flavour. The third cluster of consumers (n = 54) liked all of the gelato samples. Consumer variation seeking tendency information was also collected. No significant differences in overall liking between the different types of variety seeking consumers. Gelati made with Pounds and Sparks 127 cultivars were accepted by all consumers indicating that these may be good cultivars to include in novel consumer products.
Impact of different storage times at room temperature of unspun citrated blood samples on routine coagulation tests results. Results of a bicenter study and review of the literature
Authors: Toulon P. , Metge S. , Hangard M. , Zwahlen S. , Piaulenne S. , Besson V.
Published: May 2017

Introduction

A maximum delay between blood collection and coagulation testing of 4 hours is recommended by most guidelines. As information on optimal storage times is limited, we investigated the potential effect of different storage times of unspun tubes, that is, ≤2, 4, 6, and 8 hours, on routine coagulation test results.

Methods

Four evacuated polymer tubes containing 0.109 mol/L tri‐Na citrate were drawn from 144 patients, including 39 patients on vitamin K‐antagonists. Except for storage time, all tubes underwent the same preanalytical process. Prothrombin time (PT)/international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, factor V (FV), FVIII, and D‐dimer were evaluated in two centers using the same technical conditions.

Results

Analytical comparison of aPTT, fibrinogen, FV, and FVIII results evaluated after prolonged storage times vs a <2‐hours storage demonstrated significant difference, whereas PT/INR and D‐dimer remained unchanged up to 8 hours. Mean bias between test results obtained after prolonged storage times remained below the desirable values for all studied parameters except for FVIII evaluated after 6‐ and 8‐hours storages, but only in patients with FVIII above 100 IU/dL. Even though the corresponding bias of −5.2% and −8.5%, respectively, remained within the GEHT recommended limits of variation, its evaluation after an 8‐hours storage could lead to significant underestimation of FVIII.

Conclusion

These results suggest that, in the studied technical conditions, PT/INR, aPTT, fibrinogen, FV, and D‐dimer can be reliably evaluated in tubes stored unspun at room temperature for up to 8 hours after blood collection. That optimal delay should be of 6 hours for FVIII.
Adult genitourinary sarcoma: Clinical characteristics and survival in a series of patients treated at a high‐volume institution
Authors: Wang Xianding , Tu Xiang , Tan Ping , Zhan Wenli , Nie Pan , Wei Bing , Li Xiaohong , Chen Libo , Lu Yiping , Han Ping
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To report our institutional experience in the management of adult genitourinary sarcoma.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of data on adult genitourinary sarcoma treated at the West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China from 1985 to 2010. Clinicopathological parameters were analyzed to determine their impact on overall, recurrence‐free and metastasis‐free survivals.

Results

A total of 46 women and 142 men were included, with a median age of 42 years. Of these, 152 cases were high‐grade. The most common site was the paratesticular region. Surgical resection was carried out in 155 patients (82.4%), with negative margin in 106. After a minimum follow up of 5 years, 20 patients (11.6%) survived disease‐free, 14 (8.1%) were alive with disease and 138 (80.2%) died of disease. Survival rates at 1, 3 and 5 years were 91.3%, 64.0% and 47.7%. In univariate analyses, liposarcoma, high grade, metastasis at diagnosis, a lack of surgical resection and positive margin were predictive of unfavorable survival. In multivariate analyses, high grade, a lack of surgical resection and chemotherapy were independent predictors of poor survival.

Conclusions

Adult genitourinary sarcoma is an aggressive malignancy, usually presenting at advanced stage, with a high incidence of recurrence and metastasis. Complete resection and selective combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy might constitute the optimal treatment for this disease.
Efficacy and safety of combination therapy with tamsulosin, dutasteride and imidafenacin for the management of overactive bladder symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia: A multicenter, randomized, open‐label, controlled trial (DIrecT Study)
Authors: Yamanishi Tomonori , Asakura Hirotaka , Seki Narihito , Tokunaga Shoji
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a combination therapy with dutasteride and imidafenacin in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia and persistent overactive bladder symptoms.

Methods

A total of 163 patients presenting an enlarged prostate (volume >30 mL) and persistent overactive bladder symptoms despite at least 8 weeks of tamsulosin were randomized to receive tamsulosin and dutasteride, or tamsulosin, dutasteride and imidafenacin at a 1:1 ratio. The primary end‐point was the mean change from baseline to week 24 in total overactive bladder symptom score.

Results

The mean change in total overactive bladder symptom score from baseline at week 24 was −1.99 (95% confidence interval −2.57 to −1.41) in the tamsulosin and dutasteride group, and −3.12 (95% confidence interval −3.72 to −2.52) in the tamsulosin, dutasteride and imidafenacin group. The tamsulosin, dutasteride and imidafenacin group significantly improved total overactive bladder symptom score at week 24 as compared with the tamsulosin and dutasteride group; the mean difference was −1.18 (−2.02 to −0.34). The between‐group difference was statistically significant as early as week 4. The total International Prostate Symptom Score, storage subscore, quality of life index, and benign prostatic hyperplasia impact index also significantly improved in the tamsulosin, dutasteride and imidafenacin group.

Conclusions

Tamsulosin, dutasteride and imidafenacin combination therapy improves overactive bladder symptoms and quality of life without causing serious adverse drug reactions in patients with enlarged prostate not responding to tamsulosin. This combination therapy seems to represent a promising therapeutic option in these patients.
Phylogenetic relationships within Adiaphanida (phylum Platyhelminthes) and the status of the crustacean‐parasitic genus Genostoma
Authors: Laumer Christopher E. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: May 2017

The existence of the platyhelminth clade Adiaphanida—an assemblage comprising the well‐studied order Tricladida as well as two lesser known taxa, Prolecithophora and the obligate parasitic Fecampiida—is among the more surprising results of flatworm molecular systematics. Each of these three clades is itself largely well‐defined from a morphological point of view, although Adiaphanida at large, despite its strong support in molecular phylogenetic analyses, lacks known morphological synapomorphies. However, one taxon, the genus Genostoma, a parasite of the leptostracan crustacean Nebalia, rests uneasily within its current classification within the fecampiid family Genostomatidae; ultrastructural investigations on this taxon have uncovered a spermatogenesis reminiscent of Kalyptorhynchia, and a dorsal syncytium resembling the neodermatan tegument. Here, we provide molecular sequence data (nearly complete 18S and 28S rRNA) from a representative of Genostoma, with which we test hypotheses on the phylogenetic position of this taxon within Platyhelminthes, expanding upon a recently published phylum‐wide analysis, and applying novel alignment algorithms and substitution models. These analyses unequivocally position Genostoma as the sister group of Prolecithophora. However, even in taxon‐rich analyses, support for the position of the root of Adiaphanida is lacking, highlighting the need for new data types to study the phylogeny of this clade. Interestingly, our analyses also do not recover the monophyly of several taxa previously proposed, notably Continenticola within Tricladida and Protomonotresidae within Prolecithophora. In light of this phylogeny and the distinctive morphology (especially, spermatogenesis) of Genostoma, we advocate for a redefinition of the family Genostomatidae, outside of both Fecampiida and Prolecithophora, to encompass the members of this unique genus of parasites. Within Fecampiida, the family Piscinquilinidae fam. nov. is erected to accommodate the vertebrate‐parasitic Piscinquilinus, formerly Genostomatidae.
Application of natural plant extracts improves the tolerance against combined terminal heat and drought stresses in bread wheat
Authors: Farooq M. , Rizwan M. , Nawaz A. , Rehman A. , Ahmad R.
Published: May 2017

Drought and heat are among the main abiotic stresses causing severe damage to the cereal productivity when occur at reproductive stages. In this study, ten wheat cultivars were screened for combined heat and drought tolerance imposed at booting, heading, anthesis and post‐anthesis stages, and role of the foliage applied plant extracts was evaluated in improving the performance of differentially responding wheat cultivars under terminal heat and drought stresses. During both years, wheat crop was raised under ambient temperature and 70% water holding capacity (WHC) till leaf boot stage. The plant extracts (3% each) of sorghum, brassica, sunflower and moringa were foliage applied at booting, anthesis and post‐anthesis stage; and after one week of application of these plant extracts, combined heat and drought was imposed at each respective stage. Heat and drought stresses were imposed at each respective stage by placing pots in glass canopies with temperature of 4 ± 2°C above than the ambient temperature in combination with drought stress (35%WHC) until maturity. Combination of drought and heat stresses significantly reduced the performance of tested wheat cultivars; however, stress at the booting and heading stages was more damaging than the anthesis and post‐anthesis stages. Cultivars Mairaj‐2008 and Chakwal‐50 remained green with extended duration for grain filling, resulting in the maintenance of number of grains per spike and 100‐grain weight under stress conditions and thus had better grain yield and water‐use efficiency. However, in cultivars Fsd‐2008, and Shafaq‐2006, the combined imposition of drought and heat accelerated the grain filling rate with decrease in grain filling duration, grain weight and grain yield. Foliar application of all the plant extracts improved the wheat performance under terminal heat and drought stress; however, brassica extract was the most effective. This improvement in grain yield, water‐use efficiency and transpiration efficiency due to foliage applied plant extracts, under terminal heat and drought stress, was owing to better stay‐green character and accumulation of more soluble phenolics, which imparted stress tolerance as indicated by relatively stable grain weight and grain number. In crux, growing of stay‐green wheat cultivars with better grain filling and foliage application of plant extracts may help improving the performance of bread wheat under combined heat and drought stresses.
Oxidation kinetics strength of Hi‐NicalonTM‐S SiC fiber after oxidation in dry and wet air
Authors: Hay Randall S. , Chater Richard J.
Published: May 2017

Hi‐Nicalon™‐S SiC fiber strengths and Weibull moduli were measured after oxidation for up to 100 hours between 700°C and 1400°C in wet and dry air. SiO2 scale thickness and crystallization extent were measured by TEM. The effect of furnace environment on trace element levels in the SiO2 scales was characterized by secondary ion mass spectroscopy. Crystallization kinetics and Deal‐Grove oxidation kinetics for glass and crystalline scale, and the transition between them, were modeled and determined. Crystallization retards oxidation kinetics, and scale that formed in the crystalline state was heavily deformed by the growth stress accompanying SiC oxidation volume expansion. Glass scales formed in dry air slightly increased fiber strength. Glass scales formed in wet air did not increase strength, and in some cases significantly decreased strength. Scales more than 200 nm thick were usually partially or completely crystallized, which degraded fiber strength. Contamination of scales by trace impurities such as Al and Ca during heat treatment inhibited crystallization. The oxidation kinetics and the strengths of oxidized Hi‐Nicalon™‐S fibers are compared with previous studies on SiC fibers, bulk SiC, and single‐crystal SiC. Empirical relationships between oxidation temperature, time, scale thickness, and strength are determined and discussed.
Leveraging communal experiences in the curriculum: Increasing interest in pursuing engineering by changing stereotypic expectations
Authors: Belanger Aimee L. , Diekman Amanda B. , Steinberg Mia
Published: May 2017

The goal congruity perspective suggests that students may not enter engineering, in part, because they believe engineering is unlikely to fulfill communal, other‐oriented goals. Increasing beliefs that engineering fulfills communal goals can increase engineering interest. We examine how actual and expected communal experiences in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) shape engineering interest. Study 1 demonstrates that past communal STEM experiences predict greater beliefs that engineering fulfills communal goals and positive engineering attitudes. Using experimental methods, studies 2 and 3 demonstrate that including a service‐learning project in an engineering course description increases beliefs that the course fulfills communal goals and course interest. These findings suggest that communal STEM experiences, and service learning in particular, can increase interest and participation in engineering.
Calcium supplementation and cardiovascular risk: A rising concern
Authors: Tankeu Aurel T. , Ndip Agbor Valirie , Noubiap Jean Jacques
Published: May 2017

Over the past decade, the number of individuals taking calcium supplementation worldwide has been on the rise, especially with the emergence of new pharmaceutical companies specialized in the marketing of dietary supplements; with calcium supplementation being their main business axis. This is mostly because of the established role of calcium in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and, to a lesser extent, its role in the prevention of fractures. Recently, a rising body of evidence on the adverse effect of calcium supplementation on nonskeletal, especially cardiovascular, health has been a cause for concern. In fact, a significant number of studies have reported an association between calcium supplementation and adverse cardiovascular events, even though high dietary calcium intake was shown to have a protective effect. The mechanism by which calcium supplementation could cause a cardiovascular event was still unclear until a recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. Combining this recent finding with available data associating calcium supplementation with cardiovascular mortality and all‐cause mortality, we call on the need for an evidence‐based approach to calcium supplementation, while stressing on the safety of dietary calcium intake over the former on cardiovascular health.
Prognostic value of nighttime blood pressure load in Chinese patients with nondialysis chronic kidney disease
Authors: Li Yan , Deng Qiongxia , Li Huiqun , Ma Xinxin , Zhang Jun , Peng Hui , Wang Cheng , Lou Tanqi
Published: May 2017

The prognostic value of nighttime blood pressure (BP) load in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains unknown. The prognostic value of nighttime BP load in a cohort of Chinese patients with nondialysis CKD was investigated. The authors monitored ambulatory BP and followed health outcomes in 588 Chinese CKD patients. Multivariable‐adjusted Cox regression analyses indicated that nighttime BP load was a significant risk factor for all clinical outcomes in CKD patients, even when adjusted for clinic BP. Tertile 3 of systolic BP load (vs tertile 1) was associated with an increased risk of renal events (hazard ratio [HR], 2.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12–4.38) and cardiovascular events (HR, 5.34; 95% CI, 1.58–18.04); tertile 3 of diastolic BP load (vs tertile 1) was associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality (HR, 6.73; 95% CI, 1.79–25.20), cardiovascular mortality (HR, 7.18; 95% CI, 1.47–35.03), renal events (HR, 2.40; 95% CI, 1.17–4.92), and cardiovascular events (HR, 5.87; 95% CI, 1.97–17.52). Higher nighttime BP load, especially nighttime diastolic BP load, was associated with a poorer prognosis in Chinese nondialysis CKD patients.
The economic burden of gluten‐free products and gluten‐free diet: a cost estimation analysis in Greece
Authors: Panagiotou S. , Kontogianni M. D.
Published: May 2017

Background

Adherence to a gluten‐free diet (GFD) demonsrates various difficulties, including the high cost of the diet. The present study aimed to (i) compare the cost of gluten‐free products (GFP) from supermarkets and pharmacies with the cost of their conventional counterparts and (ii) estimate the weekly economic burden of a GFD.

Methods

The prices of all food products labelled as ‘gluten‐free’ available at four supermarket chains in Athens, as well as the prices of all similar conventional food products, were recorded. The prices of the pharmacy GFP were recorded from the official list of the National Health Service Organisation. For every product, the price per 100 g was calculated. All products were classified into 24 categories, which consisted of three subcategories: conventional, supermarket GFP and pharmacy GFP. Three weekly menus were designed for children, adolescents and adults, selecting the upper levels of energy intake, to cover the majority of the patients. For all three weekly menus, the price difference between conventional and GFP, both from supermarkets and pharmacies, was calculated.

Results

Compared with conventional food products, all supermarket GFP, except for one, were more expensive by 22–334% (P < 0.05) and all pharmacy GFP were more expensive by 88–476% (P < 0.05). The weekly economic burden of a GFD ranged from €12 to €28 per week, depending on age and GFP place of purchase.

Conclusions

The present study confirms the higher cost of GFP compared to their conventional equivalents in Greece, leading to a weekly economic burden for people on a gluten‐free diet.
Cross‐sectional associations of cortical β‐amyloid with erythrocyte membrane long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in older adults with subjective memory complaints
Authors: Hooper Claudie , De Souto Barreto Philipe , Payoux Pierre , Salabert Anne Sophie , Guyonnet Sophie , Andrieu Sandrine , Vellas Bruno ,   the MAPT/DSA study group
Published: May 2017

Omega‐3 (n‐3) and 6 (n‐6) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been associated with reduced cognitive decline in observational studies. Hence, we examined the cross‐sectional associations between cortical β‐amyloid (Aβ) and erythrocyte membrane PUFAs in 61 non‐demented elderly individuals reporting subjective memory complaints from the Multidomain Alzheimer Preventive Trial placebo arm. Cortical‐to‐cerebellar standard uptake value ratios were obtained using [18F] florbetapir positron emission tomography. Fatty acids were measured in erythrocyte membranes by gas chromatography. Associations were explored using adjusted multiple linear regression models and were considered significant at p ≤ 0.005 after correction for multiple testing (10 comparisons). We found no significant associations between cortical Aβ and erythrocyte membrane PUFAs. The associations closest to significance after adjustment were those between Aβ and erythrocyte membrane arachidonic acid (without apolipoprotein E status adjustment: B‐coefficient, 0.03; CI, 0.01, 0.05; p = 0.02. Including Apolipoprotein E adjustment: B‐coefficient, 0.03; CI, 0.00, 0.06; p = 0.04) and Aβ and erythrocyte membrane linoleic acid (without apolipoprotein E status adjustment: B‐coefficient, −0.02; CI, −0.04, 0.00; p = 0.02. Including Apolipoprotein E adjustment: B‐coefficient, −0.02; CI, −0.04, 0.00; p = 0.09). Furthermore, the association between Aβ and erythrocyte membrane arachidonic acid seemed to be specific to Apolipoprotein E ε4 non‐carriers (B‐coefficient 0.03, CI: 0.00, 0.06, p = 0.03, n = 36). In contrast, no association was found between Aβ and erythrocyte membrane linoleic acid in Apolipoprotein E ε4 stratified analysis. Investigating the relationships between Aβ and PUFAs longitudinally would provide further evidence as to whether fatty acids, particularly arachidonic acid and linoleic acid, might modulate cognition through Aβ‐dependent mechanisms.

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Hyperfibrinolysis and Hypofibrinogenemia Diagnosed With Rotational Thromboelastometry in Dogs Naturally Infected With Angiostrongylus vasorum
Authors: Sigrist N.E. , Hofer‐Inteeworn N. , Jud Schefer R. , Kuemmerle‐Fraune C. , Schnyder M. , Kutter A.P.N.
Published: May 2017

Background

The pathomechanism of Angiostrongylus vasorum infection‐associated bleeding diathesis in dogs is not fully understood.

Objective

To describe rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) parameters in dogs naturally infected with A. vasorum and to compare ROTEM parameters between infected dogs with and without clinical signs of bleeding.

Animals

A total of 21 dogs presented between 2013 and 2016.

Methods

Dogs with A. vasorum infection and ROTEM evaluation were retrospectively identified. Thrombocyte counts, ROTEM parameters, clinical signs of bleeding, therapy, and survival to discharge were retrospectively retrieved from patient records and compared between dogs with and without clinical signs of bleeding.

Results

Evaluation by ROTEM showed hyperfibrinolysis in 8 of 12 (67%; 95% CI, 40–86%) dogs with and 1 of 9 (11%; 95% CI, 2–44%) dogs without clinical signs of bleeding (P = .016). Hyperfibrinolysis was associated with severe hypofibrinogenemia in 6 of 10 (60%; 95% CI, 31–83%) of the cases. Hyperfibrinolysis decreased or resolved after treatment with 10–80 mg/kg tranexamic acid. Fresh frozen plasma (range, 14–60 mL/kg) normalized follow‐up fibrinogen function ROTEM (FIBTEM) maximal clot firmness in 6 of 8 dogs (75%; 95% CI, 41–93%). Survival to discharge was 67% (14/21 dogs; 95% CI, 46–83%) and was not different between dogs with and without clinical signs of bleeding (P = .379).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Hyperfibrinolysis and hypofibrinogenemia were identified as an important pathomechanism in angiostrongylosis‐associated bleeding in dogs. Hyperfibrinolysis and hypofibrinogenemia were normalized by treatment with tranexamic acid and plasma transfusions, respectively.
Effect of smoking on survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kolly Philippe , Knöpfli Marina , Dufour Jean‐François
Published: May 2017

Background & Aims

Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity and physical activity have gained interest in the field of hepatocellular carcinoma. These factors play a significant role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Several studies revealed the impact of tobacco consumption on the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and its synergistic effects with viral etiologies (hepatitis B and C). The effects of smoking on survival in patients with a diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma have not yet been investigated in a Western cohort where hepatitis C infection is a major risk factor.

Methods

Using data from a prospective cohort of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who were followed at the University Hospital of Bern, Switzerland, survival was compared by Kaplan–Meier analysis in smokers and nonsmokers, and multivariate Cox regression was applied to control for confounding variables.

Results

Of 238 eligible hepatocellular carcinoma patients, 64 were smokers at the time of inclusion and 174 were nonsmokers. Smokers had a significant worse overall survival than nonsmokers (hazard ratio 1.77, 95% confidence interval: 1.22‐2.58, P=.003). Analysis of patients according to their underlying liver disease, revealed that smoking, and not nonsmoking, affected survival of hepatitis B virus and C virus‐infected patients only. In this subgroup, smoking was an independent predictor for survival (hazard ratio 2.99, 95% confidence interval: 1.7‐5.23, P<.001) and remained independently predictive when adjusted for confounding variables.

Conclusions

This study shows that smoking is an independent predictor of survival in hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus‐infected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.
An Investigation of Stackelberg Mixed Oligopoly with Advertising Competition
Authors: Pi Jiancai , Zhang Pengqing , Chen Xuyang
Published: May 2017

This paper conducts a comprehensive investigation of Stackelberg mixed oligopoly with advertising competition. We focus our attention on misleading advertising, and at the same time derive some results that are closely related to profit‐raising entry. Different from Matsumura and Sunada (Economics Letters, Vol. 119 (2013), pp. 183–185), we find that it is the leadership of the public firm in the advertising stage that may lead to the negative advertising level of the public firm and make the profit of each private firm decrease in the number of the private firms. In addition, we also find that the public leadership in the advertising stage may lead to the negative aggregate advertising level.
Crystal structure refinement of chromites from two achondrites, their T‐f(O2) conditions, and implications
Authors: Lenaz Davide , Schmitz Birger
Published: May 2017

Six Cr‐spinel grains from NWA 6077 brachinite‐like and NWA 725 winonaite achondrites have been studied by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and structural refinement. From a chemical point of view, spinels from NWA 6077 show Cr/(Cr + Al) (i.e., Cr#) and Mg/(Mg + Fe2+) (i.e., Mg#) values similar to other brachinites, while the Cr# of NWA 725 is lower than that of literature winonaites. Spinels from NWA 6077 and NWA 725 meteorites show similar cell edges, while the oxygen positional parameter is rather different being about 0.2629 for NWA 6077 and 0.2622 for NWA 725. Considering both parameters, NWA 725 shows structural features that are close to some terrestrial spinel occurrences as in komatiites, kimberlites, or included in diamonds; those from NWA 6077 show values that have no terrestrial analogs. Olivine‐chromite closure temperature ranges from ~737 to ~765° C for NWA 725, being similar to that of literature winonaites and ~846 to ~884° C for NWA 6077. The logfO2 ranges from −19.8 to −20.5 and −17.0 to −17.9 for the two meteorites, respectively. The u values for terrestrial samples can give information about the cooling history of the samples. For the extraterrestrial samples, it seems that it can give information about the cooling only for spinels where it is lower than 0.2625. For higher values, it appears related only to the chemistry of the spinels.
Fsr1, a striatin homologue, forms an endomembrane‐associated complex that regulates virulence in the maize pathogen Fusarium verticillioides
Authors: Zhang Huan , Mukherjee Mala , Kim Jung‐Eun , Yu Wenying , Shim Won‐Bo
Published: May 2017

Fsr1, a homologue of mammalian striatin, containing multiple protein‐binding domains and a coiled‐coil (CC) domain, is critical for Fusarium verticillioides virulence. In mammals, striatin interacts with multiple proteins to form a STRIPAK (striatin‐interacting phosphatase and kinase) complex that regulates a variety of developmental processes and cellular mechanisms. In this study, we identified the homologue of a key mammalian STRIPAK component STRIP1/2 (striatin‐interacting proteins 1 and 2) in F. verticillioides, FvStp1, which interacts with Fsr1 in vivo. Gene deletion analysis indicates that FvStp1 is critical for F. verticillioides stalk rot virulence. In addition, we identified three proteins, designated FvCyp1, FvScp1 and FvSel1, which interact with the Fsr1 CC domain via a yeast two‐hybrid screen. Importantly, FvCyp1, FvScp1 and FvSel1 co‐localize to endomembrane structures, each having a preferred localization in the cell, and they are all required for F. verticillioides stalk rot virulence. Moreover, these proteins are necessary for the correct localization of Fsr1 to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and nuclear envelope. Thus, we identified several novel components in the STRIPAK complex that regulates F. verticillioides virulence, and propose that the correct organization and localization of Fsr1 are critical for STRIPAK complex function.
Professional nutrition journals from Arabic‐speaking countries: A regional status
Authors: Aboul‐Enein B. H. , Bernstein J. , Kruk J.
Published: May 2017

The Arabic‐speaking region is affected by a public health nutrition crisis characterised by both under‐ and overnutrition. Previous studies have described the full spectrum of medical, biomedical and public health journals within the Arabic‐speaking region. The aim of this brief communication is to highlight the current status of professional nutrition journals in the Arabic‐speaking region and demonstrate a gap between need and availability. An electronic search examined five databases to identify nutrition journals published in the Arabic‐speaking region. Journal sites were evaluated for primary scope, publication history, current status, available formats and language. The search revealed 12 nutrition journals associated with Arabic‐speaking countries. Two journals have a current publication history of 20 or more consecutive years. The majority were discontinued or interrupted at the time data were collected; five have done so within the last 10 years. The high prevalence of under‐ and overnutrition in Arabic‐speaking countries is not reflected by the nutrition journals currently available, which are required to communicate relevant research to health professional and policymakers working in the area of public health nutrition.