bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bayesian prediction of monthly precipitation on a fine grid using covariates based on a regional meteorological model
Authors: Sigurdarson A. N. , Hrafnkelsson B.
Published: November 2015

In this article a Bayesian hierarchical model (BHM) for observed monthly precipitation is proposed. This BHM incorporates covariates based on an output on a fine grid from a regional meteorological model. At the data level of the BHM, the observed monthly precipitation is transformed using the Box–Cox transformation, and each month is modeled separately. To capture spatial correlation at the data level, a Gaussian field with Matérn correlation function is used. It is assumed that the data are subject to measurement error. The location and log‐scale parameters at the latent level are also modeled with Gaussian fields with Matérn correlation functions. An output from a regional meteorological model on a fine grid is used to construct spatial covariates for the latent parameters of the BHM for each month of the year. These covariates are then projected onto each of the observed sites for each month and incorporated into the BHM. Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation is used for posterior inference and Bayesian kriging is used to predict the latent parameters on the grid. This BHM was applied to observed data on monthly precipitation, which come from forty sites across Iceland from the years 1958 to 2006. The data were corrected for wind, wetting, and evaporation loss. An output from a linear model of orographic precipitation defined on a 1 km by 1 km grid over Iceland was used to construct the covariates for the BHM. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acute embryotoxic effects but no long-term reproductive effects of in ovo methylmercury exposure in zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata)
Authors: Yu Maria S. , Eng Margaret L. , Williams Tony D. , Basu Niladri , Elliott John E.
Published: November 2015

Mercury bioaccumulates in terrestrial ecosystems as methylmercury (MeHg), yet little is known about its effects on terrestrial organisms, including songbirds. The authors used a model songbird species, the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata), to assess short-term embryotoxic effects of in ovo MeHg exposure on hatching success and posthatching growth and nestling survival, as well as longer-term effects on mating behavior and reproduction. Egg treatment groups included a low-MeHg dose of 0.2 μg Hg g−1 egg (n = 36), a high-MeHg dose of 3.2 μg Hg g−1 egg (n = 49), and a control (n = 34). Doses were dissolved in nanopure filtered water and injected into the albumen on the day eggs showed signs of viability (3 d incubation). In ovo exposure to MeHg significantly reduced hatching success (53% in the high-MeHg dose group vs 94% in vehicle controls). Among hatched chicks, however, no effects of MeHg on growth, hematological variables, or nestling survival were detected. While the in ovo injection method resulted in a dose-dependent pattern of MeHg concentrations in blood of surviving chicks at 15 d and 30 d posthatching, there was evidence of rapid excretion of MeHg with nestling age during that growth period. At reproductive maturity (90 d of age), no long-term effects of in ovo exposure to MeHg on female mating behavior, reproductive effort (egg or clutch size), or growth and survivorship of offspring were observed. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1534–1540. © 2015 SETAC
Seasonal and flow-driven dynamics of particulate and dissolved mercury and methylmercury in a stream impacted by an industrial mercury source
Authors: Riscassi Ami , Miller Carrie , Brooks Scott
Published: November 2015

Sediments and floodplain soils in the East Fork Poplar Creek watershed (Oak Ridge, TN, USA) are contaminated with high levels of mercury (Hg) from an industrial source at the headwaters. Although baseflow conditions have been monitored, concentrations of Hg and methylmercury (MeHg) during high-flow storm events, when the stream is more hydrologically connected to the floodplain, have yet to be assessed. The present study evaluated baseflow and event-driven Hg and MeHg dynamics in East Fork Poplar Creek, 5 km upstream of the confluence with Poplar Creek, to determine the importance of hydrology to in-stream concentrations and downstream loads and to ascertain whether the dynamics are comparable to those of systems without an industrial Hg source. Particulate Hg and MeHg were positively correlated with discharge (r2 = 0.64 and 0.58, respectively) and total suspended sediment (r2 = 0.97 and 0.89, respectively), and dissolved Hg also increased with increasing flow (r2 = 0.18) and was associated with increases in dissolved organic carbon (r2 = 0.65), similar to the dynamics observed in uncontaminated systems. Dissolved MeHg decreased with increases in discharge (r2 = 0.23) and was not related to dissolved organic carbon concentrations (p = 0.56), dynamics comparable to relatively uncontaminated watersheds with a small percentage of wetlands (<10%). Although stormflows exert a dominant control on particulate Hg, particulate MeHg, and dissolved Hg concentrations and loads, baseflows were associated with the highest dissolved MeHg concentration (0.38 ng/L) and represented the majority of the annual dissolved MeHg load. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1386–1400. Published 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US Government work, and as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Volumetric optoacoustic imaging feedback during endovenous laser therapy – an ex vivo investigation
Authors: Fehm Thomas Felix , Deán‐Ben Xosé Luís , Schaur Peter , Sroka Ronald , Razansky Daniel
Published: November 2015

Endovenous laser therapy (ELT) was introduced in clinical practice for treating incompetent veins about fifteen years ago. Despite the considerable clinical evidence collected so far, no rigorous guidelines are yet available regarding the optimal energy deposition protocols while incidence of recanalization, lack of vessel occlusion and collateral damage remains variable among patients. Online monitoring and feedback‐based control over the lesion progression may improve clinical outcomes. Yet the currently employed monitoring tools, such as Doppler ultrasound, often do not provide sufficient contrast as well as three‐dimensional imaging capacity for accurate lesion assessment during thermal treatments. Here we investigate on the utility of volumetric optoacoustic tomography for real‐time monitoring of the ELT procedures. Experiments performed in subcutaneous veins of an ox foot model revealed the accurate spatio‐temporal maps of the lesion progression and characteristics of the vessel wall. Optoacoustic images further correlated with the temperature elevation measured in the area adjacent to the coagulation spot and made it possible to track the position of the fiber tip during its pull back in real time and in all three dimensions. Overall, we showcase that volumetric optoacoustic tomography is a promising tool for providing online feedback during endovenous laser therapy.

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Relationship of Height to Site-Specific Fracture Risk in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Armstrong Miranda EG , Kirichek Oksana , Cairns Benjamin J , Green Jane , Reeves Gillian K ,   Valerie Beral for the Million Women Study Collaborators
Published: November 2015

Height has been associated with increased risk of fracture of the neck of femur. However, information on the association of height with fractures at other sites is limited and conflicting. A total of 796,081 postmenopausal women, who reported on health and lifestyle factors including a history of previous fractures and osteoporosis, were followed for 8 years for incident fracture at various sites by record linkage to National Health Service hospital admission data. Adjusted relative risks of fracture at different sites per 10-cm increase in height were estimated using Cox regression. Numbers with site-specific fractures were: humerus (3036 cases), radius and/or ulna (1775), wrist (9684), neck of femur (5734), femur (not neck) (713), patella (649), tibia and/or fibula (1811), ankle (5523), and clavicle/spine/rib (2174). The risk of fracture of the neck of femur increased with increasing height (relative risk [RR] = 1.48 per 10-cm increase, 99% confidence interval [CI] 1.39–1.57) and the proportional increase in risk was significantly greater than for all other fracture sites (pheterogeneity < 0.001). For the other sites, fracture risk also increased with height (RR = 1.15 per 10 cm, CI 1.12–1.18), but there was only very weak evidence of a possible difference in risk between the sites (pheterogeneity = 0.03). In conclusion, taller women are at increased risk of fracture, especially of the neck of femur. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Genetic Risk Scores Implicated in Adult Bone Fragility Associate With Pediatric Bone Density
Authors: Mitchell Jonathan A , Chesi Alessandra , Elci Okan , McCormack Shana E , Roy Sani M , Kalkwarf Heidi J , Lappe Joan M , Gilsanz Vicente , Oberfield Sharon E , Shepherd John A , Kelly Andrea , Grant Struan FA , Zemel Babette S
Published: November 2015

Using adult identified bone mineral density (BMD) loci, we calculated genetic risk scores (GRS) to determine if they were associated with changes in BMD during childhood. Longitudinal data from the Bone Mineral Density in Childhood Study were analyzed (N = 798, 54% female, all European ancestry). Participants had up to 6 annual dual energy X-ray scans, from which areal BMD (aBMD) Z-scores for the spine, total hip, and femoral neck were estimated, as well as total body less head bone mineral content (TBLH-BMC) Z-scores. Sixty-three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped, and the percentage of BMD-lowering alleles carried was calculated (overall adult GRS). Subtype GRS that include SNPs associated with fracture risk, pediatric BMD, WNT signaling, RANK-RANKL-OPG, and mesenchymal stem cell differentiation were also calculated. Linear mixed effects models were used to test associations between each GRS and bone Z-scores, and if any association differed by sex and/or chronological age. The overall adult, fracture, and WNT signaling GRS were associated with lower Z-scores (eg, spine aBMD Z-score: βadult = –0.04, p = 3.4 × 10−7; βfracture = –0.02, p = 8.9 × 10−6; βWNT = –0.01, p = 3.9 × 10−4). The overall adult GRS was more strongly associated with lower Z-scores in females (p-interaction ≤ 0.05 for all sites). The fracture GRS was more strongly associated with lower Z-scores with increasing age (p-interaction ≤ 0.05 for all sites). The WNT GRS associations remained consistent for both sexes and all ages (p-interaction > 0.05 for all sites). The RANK-RANKL-OPG GRS was more strongly associated in females with increasing age (p-interaction < 0.05 for all sites). The mesenchymal stem cell GRS was associated with lower total hip and femoral neck Z-scores, in both boys and girls, across all ages. No associations were observed between the pediatric GRS and bone Z-scores. In conclusion, adult identified BMD loci associated with BMD and BMC in the pediatric setting, especially in females and in loci involved in fracture risk and WNT signaling. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Dietary Restriction-Induced Alterations in Bone Phenotype: Effects of Lifelong Versus Short-Term Caloric Restriction on Femoral and Vertebral Bone in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Behrendt Ann-Kathrin , Kuhla Angela , Osterberg Anja , Polley Christian , Herlyn Philipp , Fischer Dagmar-Christiane , Scotland Maike , Wree Andreas , Histing Tina , Menger Michael D , Müller-Hilke Brigitte , Mittlmeier Thomas , Vollmar Brigitte
Published: November 2015

Caloric restriction (CR) is a well-described dietary intervention that delays the onset of aging-associated biochemical and physiological changes, thereby extending the life span of rodents. The influence of CR on metabolism, strength, and morphology of bone has been controversially discussed in literature. Thus, the present study evaluated whether lifelong CR versus short-term late-onset dietary intervention differentially affects the development of senile osteoporosis in C57BL/6 mice. Two different dietary regimens with 40% food restriction were performed: lifelong CR starting in 4-week-old mice was maintained for 4, 20, or 74 weeks. In contrast, short-term late-onset CR lasting a period of 12 weeks was commenced at 48 or 68 weeks of age. Control mice were fed ad libitum (AL). Bone specimens were assessed using microcomputed tomography (μCT, femur and lumbar vertebral body) and biomechanical testing (femur). Adverse effects of CR, including reduced cortical bone mineral density (Ct.BMD) and thickness (Ct.Th), were detected to some extent in senile mice (68+12w) but in particular in cortical bone of young growing mice (4+4w), associated with reduced femoral failure force (F). However, we observed a profound capacity of bone to compensate these deleterious changes of minor nutrition with increasing age presumably via reorganization of trabecular bone. Especially in lumbar vertebrae, lifelong CR lasting 20 or 74 weeks had beneficial effects on trabecular bone mineral density (Tb.BMD), bone volume fraction (BV/TV), and trabecular number (Tb.N). In parallel, lifelong CR groups showed reduced structure model index values compared to age-matched controls indicating a transformation of vertebral trabecular bone microarchitecture toward a platelike geometry. This effect was not visible in senile mice after short-term 12-week CR. In summary, CR has differential effects on cortical and trabecular bone dependent on bone localization and starting age. Our study underlines that bone compartments possess a lifelong capability to cope with changing nutritional influences. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Corncob to value‐added chemical transformation by metal/beta zeolite and metal/mesoporous SBA‐15 catalytic pyrolysis
Authors: Jeenpadiphat Sirima , Kasiban Chomalee , Tungasmita Duangamol Nuntasri
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND

Although the pyrolysis of biomass has been investigated by many researchers, there are no data available regarding conversion to value added ester compounds from catalytic corncob pyrolysis at low temperature. In this present research thermal and catalytic cracking of residue corncob was performed at 250 to 600 °C under N2. The performance of two acidic porous catalysts, metal‐beta zeolite and mesoporous SBA‐15, with different metal (Al, Pd and Ni) loadings, were compared with the non‐catalytic reaction.

RESULTS

The cracking products were classified into gases, liquid and char. Methane, C5+ and CO2 were the main gas products, while light ester derivatives were the main components in the liquid fraction and these can be important intermediate chemicals. The phenolic compounds were obtained when using low thermal pyrolysis. A reaction temperature of 300 °C with the Al‐SBA‐15 catalyst at a SiO2/Al2O3 mole ratio of 20 was found to be optimal in terms of producing the highest biomass conversion with a high proportion of light esters.

CONCLUSION

The Al‐SBA‐15 (20) catalyst was selective towards producing the light ester 2‐methoxy phenyl acetate (59.4%), which is an important intermediate chemical for production of sweet fruity aromas in the food industry. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Impact of postoperative changes in sarcopenic factors on outcomes after hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kobayashi Atsushi , Kaido Toshimi , Hamaguchi Yuhei , Okumura Shinya , Taura Kojiro , Hatano Etsuro , Okajima Hideaki , Uemoto Shinji
Published: November 2015

Background

We have reported that preoperative low skeletal muscle quality was an independent risk factor for poor outcomes after hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, postoperative changes of quality as well as quantity of skeletal muscle after hepatectomy for HCC and their impact on postoperative outcomes have not been fully investigated.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 241 patients undergoing primary hepatectomy for HCC between January 2007 and September 2012. The quality and quantity of skeletal muscle were evaluated by intramuscular adipose tissue content (IMAC) and the psoas muscle mass index (PMI) using computed tomography imaging at the umbilical level, respectively. We evaluated postoperative changes in IMAC and PMI in patients according to preoperative sarcopenia, sex, and surgical procedure. We also investigated the impact of ΔIMAC and ΔPMI on HCC recurrence in patients with preoperative normal IMAC.

Results

On multivariate analysis, indocyanine green retention test at 15 min ≥ 15% (odds ratio [OR] = 3.156; P = 0.041) and high ΔIMAC at 6 months after hepatectomy (OR = 3.713; P = 0.024) were the risk factors for HCC recurrence in patients with preoperative normal IMAC.

Conclusion

Postoperative depletion of skeletal muscle quality is closely involved with HCC recurrence after hepatectomy for HCC.
Elucidating collision induced dissociation products and reaction mechanisms of protonated uracil by coupling chemical dynamics simulations with tandem mass spectrometry experiments
Authors: Molina Estefanía Rossich , Ortiz Daniel , Salpin Jean‐Yves , Spezia Riccardo
Published: November 2015

In this study we have coupled mixed quantum‐classical (quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics) direct chemical dynamics simulations with electrospray ionization/tandem mass spectrometry experiments in order to achieve a deeper understanding of the fragmentation mechanisms occurring during the collision induced dissociation of gaseous protonated uracil. Using this approach, we were able to successfully characterize the fragmentation pathways corresponding to ammonia loss (m/z 96), water loss (m/z 95) and cyanic or isocyanic acid loss (m/z 70). Furthermore, we also performed experiments with isotopic labeling completing the fragmentation picture. Remarkably, fragmentation mechanisms obtained from chemical dynamics simulations are consistent with those deduced from isotopic labeling. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of dehydroascorbate‐mediated modification of glutaredoxin by mass spectrometry
Authors: Flandrin Aurore , Allouche Sebastien , Rolland Yoann , McDuff François‐Olivier , Richard Wagner J. , Klarskov Klaus
Published: November 2015

Ascorbate is as a potent antioxidant in vivo protecting the organism against oxidative stress. In this process, ascorbate is oxidized in two steps to dehydroascorbate (DHA), which if not efficiently reduced back to ascorbate decomposes irreversibly to a complex mixture of products. We demonstrate that a component of this mixture specifically reacts with the thiol group of cysteine residues at physiological pH to give a protein adduct involving the addition of a 5‐carbon fragment of DHA (+112 Da). Incubations of glutaredoxin‐1 expressed in Escherichia coli and dehydroascorbate revealed abundant adducts of +112, +224 and +336 Da due to the addition of one, two and three conjugation products of DHA, respectively. ESI–MS of carbamidomethylated glutaredoxin‐1 before incubation with DHA, deuterium exchange together with tandem mass spectrometry analysis and LC–ESIMS/MS of modified peptides confirmed structure and sites of modification in the protein. Modification of protein thiols by a DHA‐derived product can be involved in oxidative stress‐mediated cellular toxicity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental and simulation investigation of ion transfer in different sampling capillaries
Authors: Yu Quan , Jiang Tao , Ni Kai , Qian Xiang , Tang Fei , Wang Xiaohao
Published: November 2015

Atmospheric pressure interfaces were a fundamental structure for transferring air generated ions into the vacuum manifold of a mass spectrometer. This work is devoted to the characterization of ion transfer in metal capillaries through both experimental and simulated investigations. The impact of capillary configurations on ion transmission efficiency was evaluated using an electrospray mass spectrometer with various bent capillaries as the transfer devices. In addition, a numerical model has been set up by coupling the SIMION 8.0 and the computational flow dynamics for simulation study of ion migration in the complex atmospheric system. The transfer efficiency was found to be highly affected by the variation in electric field and the capillary geometry, revealing that the hydrodynamic and electric force were both dominant and interactional during the transmission process. The consistency of the results from the experimental analysis and simulation modeling proved the validity of the model, which was helpful for understanding ion activity in transfer capillaries. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new approach to live reaction monitoring using active flow technology in ultra‐high‐speed HPLC with mass spectral detection
Authors: Kocic Danijela , Andrew Shalliker R.
Published: November 2015

A new type of chromatography column referred to as a parallel segmented flow (PSF) column enables ultra‐high‐speed high‐performance liquid chromatography‐MS to be undertaken. This occurs because the separation efficiency obtained on PSF columns has been shown in prior studies to be superior to conventional columns, and the flow stream is split radially inside the outlet end fitting of the column, rather than in an axial post‐column flow stream split. As a result, the flow through the column can be five times higher than the flow through the MS. In this work, the degradation of amino acids in dilute nitric acid was used to illustrate the process. Separations were obtained in less than 12 s, although the reinjection process was initiated 6 s after the previous injection. The degradation rate constant of tryptophan, in the presence of tyrosine and phenylalanine, was determined. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Creation of a simple distal femur morphology classification system
Authors: Everhart Joshua S. , Chaudhari Ajit M. W. , Flanigan David C.
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this study is to propose a binary classification system based on simple measurements that summarizes individual, race, and sex‐specific differences in distal femur shape. Surface models of 165 distal femurs (79 female, 86 male; 85 African–American, 80 Caucasian, 28.8 ± 7.6 years) were created with a 3‐dimensional laser scanner. Surface area, width, length, curvature, and angulation were measured. Knees were classified as either type A or B within five distinct categories: (i) aspect ratio, (ii) trochlear‐intercondylar width ratio, (iii) trochlear tilt, (iv) medial‐lateral trochlear width ratio, and (v) trochlear sulcus shape. Correlations between these measures and surface area were calculated, and receiver‐operator curves were used to select cutoff values between type A and B knees to improve differentiation of femur shapes by sex or race. The cutoff values between type A and B knees for the five categories are as follows: Category I: 0.90, Category II: 0.51, Category III: 1.02, Category IV: 0.67, and Category V: 128.7°. Other than category IV (medial‐lateral trochlear width ratio) (p = 0.004, R = 0.22), no categories were correlated with surface area (p > 0.25). Category I (aspect ratio, cutoff = 0.90) best differentiated femurs by sex (p < 0.001, AUC = 0.80), and Category V (sulcus shape) best differentiated femurs by race (p < 0.001, AUC = 0.73). This system uses simple measurements to summarize important individual, race, and sex‐specific differences in distal femur shape. It can be used in a clinical setting to provide insight into the relationship between sex or race differences in knee shape and mechanically influenced knee disorders. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:924–931, 2016.
A larger critical shoulder angle requires more rotator cuff activity to preserve joint stability
Authors: Viehöfer Arnd F. , Gerber Christian , Favre Philippe , Bachmann Elias , Snedeker Jess G.
Published: November 2015

Shoulders with rotator cuff tears (RCT) tears are associated with significantly larger critical shoulder angles (CSA) (RCT CSA = 38.2°) than shoulders without RCT (CSA = 32.9°). We hypothesized that larger CSAs increase the ratio of glenohumeral joint shear to joint compression forces, requiring substantially increased compensatory supraspinatus loads to stabilize the arm in abduction. A previously established three dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) model was used. Two acromion shapes mimicked the mean CSA of 38.2° found in patients with RCT and that of a normal CSA (32.9°). In a first step, the moment arms for each muscle segment were obtained for 21 different thoracohumeral abduction angles to simulate a quasi‐static abduction in the scapular plane. In a second step, the muscle forces were calculated by minimizing the range of muscle stresses able to compensate an external joint moment caused by the arm weight. If the joint became unstable, additional force was applied by the rotator cuff muscles to restore joint stability. The model showed a higher joint shear to joint compressive force for the RCT CSA (38.2°) for thoracohumeral abduction angles between 40° and 90° with a peak difference of 23% at 50° of abduction. To achieve stability in this case additional rotator cuff forces exceeding physiological values were required. Our results document that a higher CSA tends to destabilize the glenohumeral joint such that higher than normal supraspinatus forces are required to maintain modeled stability during active abduction. This lends strong support to the concept that a high CSA can induce supraspinatus (SSP) overload. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:961–968, 2016.
Entrepreneurial Characteristics in SMEs: A Rural and Remote Rural Perspective of Lincolnshire Businesses, Part 2
Authors: Blanchard Kevin
Published: November 2015

Businesses in remote rural locations have sustained greater levels of growth and have suffered less within the period of the recession.
A Comparative Study of Strategic Planning Practices of SMEs and Large‐Sized Business Organizations in Emerging Economies: The Case of UAE
Authors: Muhammad Siddique C.
Published: November 2015

While SMEs in the emerging economy of UAE have begun to use strategic planning tools such as financial analysis, PEST analysis, cost–benefit analysis, and core and distinctive competency analysis, they are still far behind large‐sized business organizations.
Effect of steam explosion‐assisted extraction on phenolic acid profiles and antioxidant properties of wheat bran
Authors: Liu Liya , Zhao Mengli , Liu Xingxun , Zhong Kui , Tong Litao , Zhou Xianrong , Zhou Sumei
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND

The majority of phenolic acids in wheat bran are bound to the cell walls. Hence, a high proportion of phenolic acids cannot be extracted with conventional extraction methods. This study aimed to investigate the efficiency of steam explosion pre‐treatment in increasing the extractability of phenolic compounds from wheat bran.

RESULTS

Bound phenolic acids (BPA) can be released by steam explosion‐assisted extraction. Within the experimental range, soluble free phenolic acids (FPA) and soluble conjugated phenolic acids (CPA) increased gradually with residence time and temperature. After steam explosion at 215 °C for 120 s, the total FPA and CPA reached 6671.8 and 2578.6 µg GAE g−1 bran, respectively, which was about 39‐fold and seven‐fold higher than that of the untreated sample. Ferulic acid, the major individual phenolic acids in bran, increased from 55.7 to 586.3 µg g−1 for FPA, and from 44.9 to 1108.4 µg g−1 for CPA. The antioxidant properties of FPA and CPA extracts were significantly improved after treated. Correlation analysis indicated that the antioxidant capacity was in close relationship with phenolic content in FPA and CPA.

CONCLUSION

Steam explosion pre‐treatment could be effectively used to release of BPA and enhance the antioxidant capacity of wheat bran. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Using MALDI MS for rapid analysis of food lipids
Authors: Shinn Sara E. , Liyanage Rohana , Lay Jackson O. , Proctor Andrew
Published: November 2015

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) is an ionization method that produces intact lipid molecule species that can be separated and characterized by mass spectrometry. Recent research has concentrated on using rapid MALDI MS lipid analysis that employs little sample cleanup, simple sample preparation, no chemical derivatization, and minimal chromatography. This article takes a look at selected MALDI MS applications for edible oils and lipid rich foods, such as meat and eggs, and explores potential uses in food and lipid science.
Dietary fats and mood disorders – translating research into practice
Authors: McNamara Robert K.
Published: November 2015

Over the last three decades a body of evidence has emerged which suggests that the fatty acid composition of the habitual diet may represent a modifiable risk factor for mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder. Specifically, evidence suggests that diets low in omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids including oleic acid, and high in omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids may increase risk of developing mood disorders. This review provides a brief overview of this scientific evidence and then discusses how this knowledge may be translated into clinical practice to optimize treatment algorithms and improve long‐term health outcomes for patients.
PEG‐Biscyanoacrylate Crosslinker for Octyl Cyanoacrylate Bioadhesive
Authors: Basu Arijit , Veprinsky‐Zuzulia Ilana , Levinman Mira , Barkan Yoav , Golenser Jacob , Domb Abraham J.
Published: November 2015

PEG400 (polyethylene glycol, MW 400) biscyanoacrylate is synthesized and copolymerized with 2‐octyl cyanoacrylate for potential use as bioadhesive. PEG400 biscyanoacrylate is synthesized from the esterification of anthracenyl cyanoacrylic acid where the anthracene unit serves as vinyl‐protecting group. Copolymerization increases the plasticity, mechanical strength, and resilience of the resulted polymer as determined by dynamic mechanical analysis. Peeling test confirms its superior bioadhesive properties. Surface morphology is characterized by SEM imaging. The formulations are cytocompatible and safe. This cyanoacrylate composition may provide improved bioadhesive cyanoacrylates.

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Local administration of Mitomycin‐C‐Treated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) prolongs allograft survival in vascularized composite allotransplantation
Authors: Radu Christian Andreas , Kiefer Jurij , Gebhard Martha Maria , Bigdeli Amir Khosrow , Schmidt Volker Jürgen , Germann Guenter , Lehnhardt Marcus , Terness Peter , Kneser Ulrich , Kremer Thomas
Published: November 2015

Background

VCA offers a potential treatment for extensive tissue defects. First results of systemic administration of Mitomycin C‐treated PBMCs in VCA demonstrated a significant prolongation of allograft survival. The aim of this study is to evaluate if local administration of MMC‐PBMCs prolongs allograft survival in allogeneic hind limb transplantations of the rat.

Methods

Sixty allogeneic hind limb transplantations in the rat were performed in six groups. Lewis rats (LEW) were used as hind limb donors and Brown–Norway rats (BN) as recipients. Animals in group A received donor‐derived MMC‐treated PBMCs locally (i.m.). Group B received no immunosuppressive therapy, group C received a standard immunosuppressive regime consisting of FK506 and Prednisolon, group D (BN to BN) comprised isograft transplantations without immunosuppressive treatment, group E received non‐treated PBMCs (i.m.) and group F received phosphate buffered saline (PBS) without cells. The transplanted hind limbs were assessed for color, edema, skin, hair condition, and consistency of the thigh every 8 hours.

Results

Rejection in group A was delayed to an average of 7.2 ± 0.6 days. Survival times were significantly prolonged (P < 0.01) compared to control groups B, E, and F (5.5 ± 0.7, 5.8 ± 0.7, and 5.7 ± 0.5 days). Control groups C and D showed no signs of rejection.

Conclusion

The findings of this study show that local administration of MMC‐PBMCs has no side effects and significantly extends allograft survival. Further experiments with MMC‐PBMCs treatments repeated at different time‐points and being added to low dose immunosuppressive protocols need to be performed to improve experimental and eventually clinical outcome after VCA. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:417–425, 2016.
Dose‐dependent effects of isoflavone exposure during early lifetime on development and androgen sensitivity in male Wistar rats
Authors: Müller Dennis R. , Basso Fabian , Kurrat Anne , Soukup Sebastian T. , Niehoff Anja , Kulling Sabine E. , Diel Patrick
Published: November 2015

Scope

The aim of our study was to investigate dose‐dependent effects of isoflavone (ISO) exposure during adolescence on the androgen sensitivity of various physiological end points in male Wistar rats.

Methods and results

During embryogenesis and adolescence, rats were exposed to an ISO‐depleted diet (IDD) or one of two diets enriched with different concentrations of a soy‐based ISO extract causing plasma concentrations observed averagely (ISO‐rich diet [IRD]low) and maximally (IRDhigh) in Asian men. Most of the rats were orchiectomized at postnatal day (PND) 81 and were treated with testosterone propionate (TP) or vehicle from PND 89 to 99. In intact rats (PND 99) body weight, food intake, and fat mass were not influenced by ISO, but serum triglycerides and hepatic fatty acid synthase expression were decreased. Trabecular bone mineral density (BMD) was reduced in IRDlow, but not in IRDhigh rats. Orchiectomy (ORX) induced loss of BMD, which was antagonized by IRDhigh. ISO increased androgen sensitivity of seminal vesicle and levator ani. Besides, ISO plasma levels were reduced by ORX compared to intact and TP‐treated rats.

Conclusion

In summary, the results of this study indicate that exposure to ISO during adolescence affects bone homeostasis, lipid metabolism, and modulates androgen sensitivity in young adult male rats.
Holding Children for Clinical Procedures: Perseverance in Spite of or Persevering to be Child‐Centered
Authors: Bray Lucy , Carter Bernie , Snodin Jill
Published: November 2015

Children in acute care often need procedures and interventions, and they are frequently held, often against their wishes, to enable these procedures to be completed. This report is from a qualitative investigation in which we sought to explore what happens when children undergo clinical procedures within an acute hospital, with a focus on the use of holding for procedures. Qualitative data were generated through non‐participant observation of clinical procedures (n = 31) and semi‐structured interviews with health professionals (n = 22), parents (n = 21), and children (n = 4) to explore the event from the participants’ perspective. Data were analyzed using constant comparison. Through the central theoretical concept of perseverance, we examined the actions, inactions and interactions of health professionals, parents and children during a clinical procedure. Two broad trajectories were noted: “perseverance in spite of,” when the procedure was completed despite a child's upset and lack of co‐operation; and “perseverance to be child‐centered,” which was characterized by a purposeful plan of action focused on a child who had been prepared and informed, and which was facilitated by a “window of opportunity” at the start of the procedure when the child was calm and engaged. Our findings highlight that professionals need to be clear about their boundaries when starting or continuing with a procedure when a child is distressed, and support preparation and engagement activities with children and parents before, during, and after clinical procedures. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Maternal body mass index and adverse pregnancy outcomes: A ghanaian cohort study
Authors: Van Der Linden Eva L. , Browne Joyce L. , Vissers Karin M. , Antwi Edward , Agyepong Irene A. , Grobbee Diederick E. , Klipstein‐Grobusch Kerstin
Published: November 2015

Objective

To examine the association between maternal weight at <17 weeks gestation and maternal and infant outcomes of pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period in pregnant Ghanaian women.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of 1,000 women in Accra, Ghana (2012‐2014), was conducted. Women were classified as having overweight (BMI 25‐30) and obesity (BMI ≥ 30), and their obstetric and infant outcomes were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The analysis included 824 women, average 28 years (SD 5.1); 313 (31.3%) had overweight and 169 (16.9%) obesity. Women with obesity had a two‐fold increased risk for cesarean sections (RR 2.20, 95% CI 1.21‐4.02) and more than a six‐fold higher risk for pregnancy‐induced hypertension (RR 6.17, 95% CI 2.90‐13.13) and chronic hypertension (RR 6.00, 95% CI 1.40‐25.76). Infants of women with overweight or obesity were more likely to be macrosomic (RR 2.37, 95% CI 1.13‐4.97).

Conclusions

The global obesity epidemic has reached women in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) with important adverse consequences for maternal and infant health. Antenatal care in LMIC will need to anticipate this potential expansion of complications, including the development of guidelines for optimal maternity care for pregnant women with overweight and obesity.
Maternal obesity and gestational weight gain are risk factors for infant death
Authors: Bodnar Lisa M. , Siminerio Lara L. , Himes Katherine P. , Hutcheon Jennifer A. , Lash Timothy L. , Parisi Sara M. , Abrams Barbara
Published: November 2015

Objective

Assessment of the joint and independent relationships of gestational weight gain and prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) on risk of infant mortality was performed.

Methods

This study used Pennsylvania linked birth‐infant death records (2003‐2011) from infants without anomalies born to mothers with prepregnancy BMI categorized as underweight (n = 58,973), normal weight (n = 610,118), overweight (n = 296,630), grade 1 obesity (n = 147,608), grade 2 obesity (n = 71,740), and grade 3 obesity (n = 47,277). Multivariable logistic regression models stratified by BMI category were used to estimate dose‐response associations between z scores of gestational weight gain and infant death after confounder adjustment.

Results

Infant mortality risk was lowest among normal‐weight women and increased with rising BMI category. For all BMI groups except for grade 3 obesity, there were U‐shaped associations between gestational weight gain and risk of infant death. Weight loss and very low weight gain among women with grades 1 and 2 obesity were associated with high risks of infant mortality. However, even when gestational weight gain in women with obesity was optimized, the predicted risk of infant death remained higher than that of normal‐weight women.

Conclusions

Interventions aimed at substantially reducing preconception weight among women with obesity and avoiding very low or very high gestational weight gain may reduce risk of infant death.
Markedly High Plasma Thrombopoietin (TPO) Level is a Predictor of Poor Response to Immunosuppressive Therapy in Children With Acquired Severe Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Elmahdi Shaimaa , Muramatsu Hideki , Narita Atsushi , Ismael Olfat , Hama Asahito , Nishio Nobuhiru , Okuno Yusuke , Xu Yinyan , Wang Xinan , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Kojima Seiji
Published: November 2015

Background

Immunosuppressive therapy (IST) is commonly used for patients with acquired severe aplastic anemia (SAA). Because the clinical response rate and therapeutic outcome for individual patients to IST varies, an in vitro test that identifies potential responders would be desirable.

Methods

We evaluated the relationship between thrombopoietin (TPO) levels at the time of diagnosis and the response to IST at 6 months in 85 children (median age, 9.0 years; range, 1.0–15.5 years) with acquired SAA using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Thirty‐one age‐matched healthy individuals were used as controls. All patients received antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine.

Results

Overall, 39 patients (45.9%) responded to IST at 6 months. TPO plasma levels were significantly higher in nonresponders than in responders (1,555.8 vs. 1,284.7 pg/ml, respectively; P = 0.031). Multivariate analysis identified the TPO levels of >1,796.7 pg/ml (TPO‐high group, 20 patients; odds ratio (OR), 8.285; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.114–32.904; P = 0.002) as independent poor predictors of IST response at 6 months. Moreover, the TPO‐high group was associated with lower 5‐year failure‐free survival rates (30% vs. 68%, P = 0.012) compared with the TPO‐low group.

Conclusion

The measurement of TPO levels at diagnosis is useful for predicting the response to IST in children with SAA and may help in decision making.
Characterization of MHC Class I and β‐2‐Microglobulin Expression in Pediatric Solid Malignancies to Guide Selection of Immune‐Based Therapeutic Trials
Authors: Haworth Kellie B. , Arnold Michael A. , Pierson Christopher R. , Leddon Jennifer L. , Kurmashev Dias K. , Swain Hayley M. , Hutzen Brian J. , Roberts Ryan D. , Cripe Timothy P.
Published: November 2015

Background

Over 10,000 US children are diagnosed with cancer yearly. Though outcomes have improved by optimizing conventional therapies, recent immunotherapeutic successes in adult cancers are emerging. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) are the primary executioners of adaptive antitumor immunity and require antigenic presentation in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and the associated β‐2‐microglobulin (B2M). Loss of MHC I expression is a common immune escape mechanism in adult malignancies, but pediatric cancers have not been thoroughly characterized. The essential nature of MHC I expression in CTL‐mediated cell death may dictate the success of immunotherapies, which rely on eliciting an adaptive response.

Procedure

We queried pediatric tumor microarray databases for MHC I and B2M gene expression. We detected MHC I in pediatric tumor cell lines by flow cytometry and characterized MHC I and B2M expression in patient samples by immunohistochemistry. To determine whether therapeutic approaches might enhance MHC I expression in selected models in vitro, we tested effects of exposure to IFN‐γ and histone deacetylase inhibitors.

Results

Pediatric tumors overall, as well as samples within select individual tumor subtypes, exhibit wide ranges of MHC I and B2M gene and protein expression. For most cell lines tested, MHC I was inducible in vitro.

Conclusions

MHC I and B2M expression vary among pediatric tumor types and should be evaluated as potential biomarkers, which might identify patients most likely to benefit from MHC I dependent immunotherapies. Modulation of MHC I expression may be a promising mechanism for enhancing MHC I dependent immunotherapeutic efficacy.
Prospective influenza vaccine safety surveillance using fresh data in the Sentinel System
Authors: Yih Weiling Katherine , Kulldorff Martin , Sandhu Sukhminder K. , Zichittella Lauren , Maro Judith C. , Cole David V. , Jin Robert , Kawai Alison Tse , Baker Meghan A. , Liu Chunfu , McMahill‐Walraven Cheryl N. , Selvan Mano S. , Platt Richard , Nguyen Michael D. , Lee Grace M.
Published: November 2015

Purpose

To develop the infrastructure to conduct timely active surveillance for safety of influenza vaccines and other medical countermeasures in the Sentinel System (formerly the Mini‐Sentinel Pilot), a Food and Drug Administration‐sponsored national surveillance system that typically relies on data that are mature, settled, and updated quarterly.

Methods

Three Data Partners provided their earliest available (“fresh”) cumulative claims data on influenza vaccination and health outcomes 3–4 times on a staggered basis during the 2013–2014 influenza season, collectively producing 10 data updates. We monitored anaphylaxis in the entire population using a cohort design and seizures in children ≤4 years of age using both a self‐controlled risk interval design (primary) and a cohort design (secondary). After each data update, we conducted sequential analysis for inactivated (IIV) and live (LAIV) influenza vaccines using the Maximized Sequential Probability Ratio Test, adjusting for data‐lag.

Results

Most of the 10 sequential analyses were conducted within 6 weeks of the last care‐date in the cumulative dataset. A total of 6 682 336 doses of IIV and 782 125 doses of LAIV were captured. The primary analyses did not identify any statistical signals following IIV or LAIV. In secondary analysis, the risk of seizures was higher following concomitant IIV and PCV13 than historically after IIV in 6‐ to 23‐month‐olds (relative risk = 2.7), which requires further investigation.

Conclusions

The Sentinel System can implement a sequential analysis system that uses fresh data for medical product safety surveillance. Active surveillance using sequential analysis of fresh data holds promise for detecting clinically significant health risks early. Limitations of employing fresh data for surveillance include cost and the need for careful scrutiny of signals. © 2015 The Authors. Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Preparation and evaluation of alginate/chitosan microspheres containing pheromones for pest control of Megaplatypus mutatus Chapuis (Platypodinae: Platypodidae)
Authors: Valladares Gabriela A , González Audino Paola , Strumia Miriam C
Published: November 2015

This work describes the optimization of an alginate/chitosan microsphere preparation for the encapsulation of a sexual pheromone, 6‐methyl‐5‐hepten‐2‐ol (sulcatol), to realize a slow‐release device for the biological control of the Megaplatypus mutatus pest. To evaluate and select the best encapsulation/release conditions three parameters were studied: alginate concentration, pH of gelling solution and Ca2+/COO− ratio. The preparation was optimized using biopolymers with improved mechanical properties and swelling behavior. The obtained microspheres were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron and optical microscopies, swelling degree, mechanical properties and in vitro release of encapsulated pheromone. The microspheres performed best when they were synthesized using an alginate concentration of 4% w/v, at pH = 9 and with a Ca2+/COO− ratio of 3.5. The attractiveness of the alginate/chitosan microspheres towards M. mutatus was demonstrated by behavioral bioassay with the completed pheromonal blend of the species (sulcatol, sulcatone and 3‐pentanol). The formulation can be considered as an efficient slow‐release biological control system, with no negative environmental impact. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of the effect of a novel therapeutic for type 2 diabetes on the proteome of a muscle cell line
Authors: Young Pamela A. , Leonard Siobhán , Martin Darren S. D. , Findlay John B. C.
Published: November 2015

Elevated serum retinol‐binding protein (RBP) concentration has been implicated in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Two series of small molecules have been designed to lower serum levels by reducing secretion of the transthyretin–RBP complex from the liver and enhancing RBP clearance through the kidney. These small molecules were seen to improve glucose and insulin tolerance tests and to reduce body weight gain in mice rendered diabetic through a high fat diet. A proteomics study was conducted to better understand the effects of these compounds in muscle cells, muscle being the primary site for energy expenditure. One lead compound, RTC‐15, is seen to have a significant effect on proteins involved in fat and glucose metabolism. This could indicate that the compound is having a direct effect on muscle tissue to improve energy homeostasis as well as a whole body effect on circulating RBP levels. This newly characterized group of antidiabetic compounds may prove useful in the treatment and prevention of insulin resistance and obesity.