bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CYP1A1, GSTM1 and GSTT1 genetic polymorphisms and gastric cancer risk among Japanese: A nested case–control study within a large‐scale population‐based prospective study
Authors: Hidaka Akihisa , Sasazuki Shizuka , Matsuo Keitaro , Ito Hidemi , Charvat Hadrien , Sawada Norie , Shimazu Taichi , Yamaji Taiki , Iwasaki Motoki , Inoue Manami , Tsugane Shoichiro ,   for the JPHC Study Group
Published: April 2016

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1 and glutathione S‐transferases (GST) M1 and T1 are major enzymes in the carcinogen metabolizing pathway. We examined the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CYP1A1 (rs4646421, rs4646422 and rs1048943), GSTM1 and GSTT1 and gastric cancer risk in Japan. This is a nested case–control study (457 cases and 457 matched controls) of our population‐based cohort involving 36,745 subjects who answered a baseline questionnaire and supplied blood samples. The odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using conditional logistic regression models. We found that CYP1A1 (rs4646422) variant allele was associated with a statistically significant increased risk of gastric cancer compared with the homozygous wild‐type genotype (OR = 1.65; 95% CI = 1.17–2.32). GSTM1 null, GSTT1 null and GSTM1/T1 both or either null genotypes were associated with increased risk, but not statistically significantly. Combination of the CYP1A1 (rs4646422) variant allele and GSTM1/T1 both or either null genotypes was associated with a statistically significant increased risk compared with the combination of the CYP1A1 homozygous wild‐type genotype and the GSTM1/T1 both active genotypes. In addition, compared with CYP1A1 (rs4646422) homozygous wild‐type genotypes in those who were never‐smokers, CYP1A1 variant alleles in those who smoked ≥30 pack‐years were associated with an increased risk; neither gene–gene nor gene–environment interactions were significant. The CYP1A1 (rs4646422) polymorphism might be involved in gastric carcinogenesis among the Japanese population.
A key role for galectin‐1 in sprouting angiogenesis revealed by novel rationally designed antibodies
Authors: van Beijnum Judy R. , Thijssen Victor L. , Läppchen Tilman , Wong Tse J. , Verel Iris , Engbersen Maurits , Schulkens Iris A. , Rossin Raffaella , Grüll Holger , Griffioen Arjan W. , Nowak‐Sliwinska Patrycja
Published: April 2016

Galectins are carbohydrate binding proteins that function in many key cellular processes. We have previously demonstrated that galectins are essential for tumor angiogenesis and their expression is associated with disease progression. Targeting galectins is therefore a potential anti‐angiogenic and anti‐cancer strategy. Here, we used a rational approach to generate antibodies against a specific member of this conserved protein family, i.e. galectin‐1. We characterized two novel mouse monoclonal antibodies that specifically react with galectin‐1 in human, mouse and chicken. We demonstrate that these antibodies are excellent tools to study galectin‐1 expression and function in a broad array of biological systems. In a potential diagnostic application, radiolabeled antibodies showed specific targeting of galectin‐1 positive tumors. In a therapeutic setting, the antibodies inhibited sprouting angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, underscoring the key function of galectin‐1 in this process.
Changes over time in the impact of gene‐expression profiles on the administration of adjuvant chemotherapy in estrogen receptor positive early stage breast cancer patients: A nationwide study
Authors: Kuijer A. , Drukker C.A. , Elias S.G. , Smorenburg C.H. , Th. Rutgers E.J. , Siesling S. , van Dalen Th.
Published: April 2016

Ten years ago gene‐expression profiles were introduced to aid adjuvant chemotherapy decision making in breast cancer. Since then subsequent national guidelines gradually expanded the indication area for adjuvant chemotherapy. In this nation‐wide study the evolution of the proportion of patients with estrogen‐receptor positive (ER+) tumors receiving adjuvant chemotherapy in relation to gene‐expression profile use in patient groups that became newly eligible for chemotherapy according to national guideline changes over time is assessed. Data on all surgically treated early breast cancer patients diagnosed between 2004–2006 and 2012–2014 were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. ER+/Her2− patients with tumor‐characteristics making them eligible for gene‐expression testing in both cohorts and a discordant chemotherapy recommendation over time (2004 guideline not recommending and 2012 guideline recommending chemotherapy) were identified. We identified 3,864 patients eligible for gene‐expression profile use during both periods. Gene‐expression profiles were deployed in 5% and 35% of the patients in the respective periods. In both periods the majority of patients was assigned to a low genomic risk‐profile (67% and 69%, respectively) and high adherence rates to the test result were observed (86% and 91%, respectively). Without deploying a gene‐expression profile 8% and 52% (p <0.001) of the respective cohorts received chemotherapy while 21% and 28% of these patients received chemotherapy when a gene‐expression profile was used (p 0.191). In conclusion, in ER+/Her2− early stage breast cancer patients gene‐expression profile use was associated with a consistent proportion of patients receiving chemotherapy despite an adjusted guideline‐based recommendation to administer chemotherapy.
IL17 producing γδT cells induce angiogenesis and are associated with poor survival in gallbladder cancer patients
Authors: Patil Rushikesh Sudam , Shah Sagar Umesh , Shrikhande Shailesh Vinayak , Goel Mahesh , Dikshit Rajesh Prabhakar , Chiplunkar Shubhada Vivek
Published: April 2016

Despite conventional treatment modalities, gallbladder cancer (GBC) remains a highly lethal malignancy. Prognostic biomarkers and effective adjuvant immunotherapy for GBC are not available. In the recent past, immunotherapeutic approaches targeting tumor associated inflammation have gained importance but the mediators of inflammatory circuit remain unexplored in GBC patients. In the current prospective study, we investigated the role of IL17 producing TCRγδ+ (Tγδ17), CD4+ (Th17), CD8+ (Tc17) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in pathogenesis of GBC. Analysis by multi‐color flow cytometry revealed that compared to healthy individuals (HI), Tγδ17, Th17 and Tc17 cells were increased in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) of GBC patients. Tregs were decreased in PBMCs but increased in TILs of GBC patients. The suppressive potential of Tregs from GBC patients and HI were comparable. Serum cytokines profile of GBC patients showed elevated levels of cytokines (IL6, IL23 and IL1β) required for polarization and/or stabilization of IL17 producing cells. We demonstrated that Tγδ17 cells migrate toward tumor bed using CXCL9‐CXCR3 axis. IL17 secreted by Tγδ17 induced productions of vascular endothelial growth factor and other angiogenesis related factors in GBC cells. Tγδ17 cells promote vasculogenesis as studied by chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. Survival analysis showed that Tγδ17, Th17 and Treg cells in peripheral blood were associated with poor survival of GBC patients. Our findings suggest that Tγδ17 is a protumorigenic subtype of γδT cells which induces angiogenesis. Tγδ17 may be considered as a predictive biomarker in GBC thus opening avenues for targeted therapies.
“He Didn't Add More Evidence”: Using Historical Graphic Novels to Develop Language Learners' Disciplinary Literacy
Authors: Park Jie Y.
Published: April 2016

A growing body of work has contributed to the theorizing and practice of disciplinary literacy instruction at the secondary level. However, there has been relatively little attention paid to pedagogical supports—texts and practices—that can foster historical literacy development in English learners who begin their U.S. schooling in middle or high school. Using discourse data collected from an after‐school literacy program, the author shows how a historical graphic novel can foster disciplinary literacy by helping students approach history as an account. She posits that in order for students to ponder authorial choices, question representations, and grapple with considerations of truthfulness, they have to understand that what they are reading is an account of history—a person's interpretation and construction of the past. The study's findings have implications for practitioners and researchers interested in the intersections of English learners, graphic novels, and disciplinary literacy in history.
Modulation of Osteoblastic Cell Efferocytosis by Bone Marrow Macrophages
Authors: Michalski Megan N. , Koh Amy J. , Weidner Savannah , Roca Hernan , McCauley Laurie K.
Published: April 2016

Apoptosis occurs at an extraordinary rate in the human body and the effective clearance of dead cells (efferocytosis) is necessary to maintain homeostasis and promote healing, yet the contribution and impact of this process in bone is unclear. Bone formation requires that bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) differentiate into osteoblasts which direct matrix formation and either become osteocytes, bone lining cells, or undergo apoptosis. A series of experiments were performed to identify the regulators and consequences of macrophage efferocytosis of apoptotic BMSCs (apBMSCs). Bone marrow derived macrophages treated with the anti‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) exhibited increased efferocytosis of apBMSCs compared to vehicle treated macrophages. Additionally, IL‐10 increased anti‐inflammatory M2‐like macrophages (CD206+), and further enhanced efferocytosis within the CD206+ population. Stattic, an inhibitor of STAT3 phosphorylation, reduced the IL‐10‐mediated shift in M2 macrophage polarization and diminished IL‐10‐directed efferocytosis of apBMSCs by macrophages implicating the STAT3 signaling pathway. Cell culture supernatants and RNA from macrophages co‐cultured with apoptotic bone cells showed increased secretion of monocyte chemotactic protein 1/chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 2 (MCP‐1/CCL2) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF‐β1) and increased ccl2 gene expression. In conclusion, IL‐10 increases M2 macrophage polarization and enhances macrophage‐mediated engulfment of apBMSCs in a STAT3 phosphorylation‐dependent manner. After engulfment of apoptotic bone cells, macrophages secrete TGF‐β1 and MCP‐1/CCL2, factors which fuel the remodeling process. A better understanding of the role of macrophage efferocytosis as it relates to normal and abnormal bone turnover will provide vital information for future therapeutic approaches to treat bone related diseases. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 2697–2706, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A theoretical description of charge reorganization energies in molecular organic P‐type semiconductors
Authors: Brückner Charlotte , Engels Bernd
Published: April 2016

Charge transport properties of materials composed of small organic molecules are important for numerous optoelectronic applications. A material's ability to transport charges is considerably influenced by the charge reorganization energies of the composing molecules. Hence, predictions about charge‐transport properties of organic materials deserve reliable statements about these charge reorganization energies. However, using density functional theory which is mostly used for the predictions, the computed reorganization energies depend strongly on the chosen functional. To gain insight, a benchmark of various density functionals for the accurate calculation of charge reorganization energies is presented. A correlation between the charge reorganization energies and the ionization potentials is found which suggests applying IP‐tuning to obtain reliable values for charge reorganization energies. According to benchmark investigations with IP‐EOM‐CCSD single‐point calculations, the tuned functionals provide indeed more reliable charge reorganization energies. Among the standard functionals, ωB97X‐D and SOGGA11X yield accurate charge reorganization energies in comparison with IP‐EOM‐CCSD values. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CO2 Capture in Aluminum‐Based Metal‐organic Frameworks: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Lu Yu‐Huan , Chen Hsin‐Tsung
Published: April 2016

Based on density functional theory calculations with van der Waals corrected functional, we study the in‐ teractions between CO2 and two novel Aluminum‐Based metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) with two kinds of organic linkers: 2, 5‐thiophenedicarboxylic acid (TDC), 2, 5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDC), named Al‐TDC and Al‐FDC. Our calculations show that CO2 can interact with Al‐TDC and Al‐FDC MOFs via three kinds of interactions: (1) weak hydrogen bond interactions by an OCO2 with the elec‐ tron‐deficient H atom of the linker (thiophene ring and furan ring) or of the OH ligand; (2) Lewis‐base in‐ teraction by an OCO2 with the linker (thiophene ring and furan ring); (3) lone pair interaction between OCO2 and S atom of thioph‐ene ring or O atom of furan ring. We show that a judicious modification of the organic linker increases the binding energy from −30.31∼−33.86 kcal/mol (FDC) to −33.98∼−38.92 kcal/mol (TDC). The results may provide useful information for the design of future CO2‐philes MOFs.
Relationship Between the Serum Total Bilirubin and Inflammation in Patients With Psoriasis Vulgaris
Authors: Zhou Zhen‐Xing , Chen Jian‐Kui , Hong Yan‐Ying , Zhou Ru , Zhou Dong‐Mei , Sun Li‐Yun , Qin Wen‐Li , Wang Tian‐Cheng
Published: April 2016

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic and recurrent inflammatory skin disease. Previous studies have shown that bilirubin has anti‐inflammation and antioxidant effects. However, the various roles of bilirubin in psoriasis patients are still unclear.

Objective

To investigate the serum total bilirubin (TB) level in the individuals with psoriasis vulgaris and further evaluate the relationship between serum TB concentration and C‐reactive protein (CRP) to clarify the effect of bilirubin on inflammation.

Methods

A total of 214 patients with psoriasis vulgaris and 165 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy control subjects were recruited. The peripheral leukocyte count (white blood cell, WBC) and differential, serum biochemical and immunologic indexes including serum TB, immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgA, IgM, complement C3 and C4, as well as serum CRP concentrations were measured.

Results

Results showed that the serum TB level decreased significantly and peripheral WBC, neutrophil, and serum CRP concentrations increased significantly in patients with psoriasis vulgaris. Meanwhile, the serum CRP was negatively correlated with serum TB levels but positively correlated with peripheral WBC and the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). Logistic regression analysis showed that the serum TB was a protective factor for psoriasis vulgaris.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that lower serum TB is associated with the enhancement of the inflammatory response in psoriasis vulgaris. Therefore, lower serum TB has a prognostic significance for worsening psoriasis vulgaris. Bilirubin may play a crucial role in inflammation by contributing to the inhibition of the inflammatory response.
Anti Saccharomyces cerevisiae Antibodies in Patients With Anti‐β2 Glycoprotein I Antibodies
Authors: Mankaï Amani , Layouni Skander , Ghedira Ibtissem
Published: April 2016

Background

In this study, cross‐reactive epitopes on β2 glycoprotein I and Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been described. The objective of our study was to determine the frequency of anti S. cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA) in patients with anti‐β2 glycoprotein I antibodies (aβ2GPI).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in 77 patients with aβ2GPI (aβ2GPI‐IgG or aβ2GPI‐IgA). Eighty blood donors were used as a control group. ASCA IgG and ASCA IgA were determined by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).

Results

Thirteen patients among 77 had ASCA. ASCA (IgA or IgG) was significantly more frequent in patients than in healthy subjects (16.9% vs. 3.7%, P = 0.01). The positivity of both ASCA IgG and ASCA IgA is higher in patients than in control group (6.5% vs. 0%, P = 0.02). The frequency of ASCA IgG was significantly higher in patients than in the control group (15.6% vs. 2.5%, P = 0.009). In females, the frequency of ASCA IgG was significantly higher in patients than in control group (17.5% vs. 3.7%, P = 0.03). The average titer of ASCA IgG was significantly higher in patients than in the control group (9.7 ± 23 U/ml vs. 2.2 ± 2.8 U/ml; P = 0.004). ASCA IgG was significantly more frequent than ASCA IgA in all patients (15.6% vs. 7.8%, P = 0.04).

Conclusion

The frequency of ASCA was significantly higher in patients with aβ2GPI than in the control group.
Urinary Albumin Detection: Comparison of Two Different Methods
Authors: Molinario Rossana , Pocino Krizia , Daloiso Pio Dante , Giannace Angela , Spirito Giulia , Zuppi Cecilia , Antenucci Mirca
Published: April 2016

Background

Monitoring urinary albumin is a useful method in clinical practice for the management of diabetic nephropathy, chronic kidney disease, and hypertension. Currently there are neither standardized methods nor reference material for the determination of urinary albumin; for this reason it is useful to compare different assays used in clinical laboratory.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to verify analytical performance of an immunoturbidimetric assay on Roche Cobas 8000 platform and to compare urinary albumin results with those obtained by immunonephelometry on Siemens Dade Behring BN II Nephelometer.

Results

The method comparison showed a good linear relationship, confirmed by Passing–Bablok and Bland–Altman plots. The turbidimetric assay meets the requirements of accuracy and precision for the practice of medical diagnostics and clinical use.

Conclusions

The present study can contribute to the methods standardization and harmonization of urinary albumin assay.
Semiautomated Segmentation and Measurement of Cytoplasmic Vacuoles in a Neutrophil With General‐Purpose Image Analysis Software
Authors: Mizukami Maki , Yamada Misaki , Fukui Sayaka , Fujimoto Nao , Yoshida Shigeru , Kaga Sanae , Obata Keiko , Jin Shigeki , Miwa Keiko , Masauzi Nobuo
Published: April 2016

Background

Morphological observation of blood or marrow film is still described nonquantitatively. We developed a semiautomatic method for segmenting vacuoles from the cytoplasm using Photoshop (PS) and Image‐J (IJ), called PS‐IJ, and measured the relative entire cell area (rECA) and relative areas of vacuoles (rAV) in the cytoplasm of neutrophil with PS‐IJ.

Methods

Whole‐blood samples were stored at 4°C with ethylenediaminetetraacetate and in two different preserving manners (P1 and P2). Color‐tone intensity levels of neutrophil images were semiautomatically compensated using PS, and then vacuole portions were automatically segmented by IJ. The rAV and rECA were measured by counting pixels by IJ. For evaluating the accuracy in segmentations of vacuoles with PS‐IJ, the rAV/rECA ratios calculated with results from PS‐IJ were compared with those calculated with human eye and IJ (HE‐IJ).

Results

The rECA and rAV/ in P1 significantly (P < 0.05, P < 0.05) were enlarged and increased, but did not significantly (P = 0.46, P = 0.21) change in P2. The rAV/rECA ratios by PS‐IJ were significantly correlated (r = 0.90, P < 0.01) with those by HE‐IJ.

Conclusion

PS‐IJ method can successfully segment vacuoles and measure the rAV and rECA, becoming a useful tool for quantitative description of morphological observation of blood and marrow film.
Properties of Adult Lung Stem and Progenitor Cells
Authors: Bertoncello Ivan
Published: April 2016

The last decade has seen significant progress in understanding the organisation of regenerative cells in the adult lung. Cell‐lineage tracing and in vitro clonogenic assays have enabled the identification and characterisation of endogenous lung epithelial stem and progenitor cells. Selective lung injury models, and genetically engineered mice have revealed highly conserved gene networks, factors, signalling pathways, and cellular interactions important in maintaining lung homeostasis and regulating lung regeneration and repair following injury. This review describes the current models of lung epithelial stem and progenitor cell organisation in adult mice, and the impediments encountered in translational studies aiming to identify and characterise their human homologs. J. Cell. Physiol. 231: 2582–2589, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conversion of rice husks to polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) via a three‐step process: optimized alkaline pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, and biosynthesis by Burkholderia cepaciaUSM (JCM 15050)
Authors: Heng King‐Sern , Hatti‐Kaul Rajni , Adam Farook , Fukui Toshiaki , Sudesh Kumar
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND

Rice husks (RH) are agricultural residues with abundant storage of cellulose and hemicellulose, making them a potential feedstock for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production. In this study, optimization of pretreatment with alkali under various conditions was performed before enzymatic hydrolysis using Celluclast 1.5 L (EC 3.2.1.4) and Novozyme 188 (EC 3.2.1.21). The hydrolysate was fed to two strains, Burkholderia cepacia USM (JCM 15050) and Cupriavidus necator NSDG‐GG, an engineered strain of Cupriavidus necator H16, to evaluate their PHA production.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of RH using 1.0 mol L−1 potassium hydroxide (KOH) at high temperature and pressure (HTP) (121 °C, 0.1 MPa) gave maximum sugar yield of up to 87% (per total carbohydrate content) after optimized enzymatic hydrolysis, whereby the undiluted hydrolysate contained approximately 20 g L−1 total reducing sugars (TRS). B. cepacia USM utilized the hydrolysate more efficiently compared with C. necator NSDG‐GG, with a maximum cell dry weight (CDW) of 4.9 g L−1 and 40 wt% PHA at shake‐flask scale. The CDW and PHA content of B. cepacia USM cultivated in a 5 L fermentor were 7.8 g L−1 and 50%, respectively. The decrease in total phenolics at the end of fermentation suggested that B. cepacia USM was able to metabolize phenolic compounds.

CONCLUSION

Through optimized alkali pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis, RH has the potential to be converted to PHA by B. cepacia USM, thus valorizing this agricultural by‐product. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
The Synthesis of Fipronil Derivatives via Pd‐Catalyzed Direct Alkynylation of Phenylpyrazole with Terminal Alkynes in Green Solvents
Authors: Chen Su‐Qin , Zhang Xiao‐Hong
Published: April 2016

The palladium‐catalyzed direct alkynylation of phenylpyrazole (5‐amino‐1‐[2, 6‐dichloro‐4‐trifluoromethylphenyl]‐lH‐pyrazole‐3‐carbonitrile) with terminal alkynes is being reported. The protocol utilizes EtOH/H2O as the solvents and does not require the preactivation of phenylpyrazole with halide to form its halide substrate, which exemplifies the ideal condition of green chemistry. Various terminal alkynes such as arylacetylenes and aliphatic alkynes are used in the reaction to afford a series of fipronil derivatives of 4‐alkynyl‐1‐phenylpyrazoles with potential bioactivity in good yields. All the compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS spectroscopic techniques.
Double plating in Vancouver type B1 periprosthetic proximal femur fractures: A biomechanical study
Authors: Wähnert Dirk , Grüneweller Niklas , Gehweiler Dominic , Brunn Benjamin , Raschke Michael J. , Stange Richard
Published: April 2016

Periprosthetic hip fractures are an increasing problem in modern orthopedic and trauma surgery. Many options for the operative treatment are available to the surgeon ranging from modern variable angular systems to standard plates, screws, and cerclages. However, there is no gold standard and therefore, the aim of this study, was to investigate the biomechanical characteristics of double plating versus a lateral standard plate in a Vancouver B1 fracture model. Ten 4th generation composite femora were used to implant cementless total hip prosthesis and create Vancouver B1 periprosthetic fractures. Afterwards, the osteotomies were fixed using the locking compression plate in combination with the locking attachment plate (LCP, LAP, DePuy Synthes, Solothurn, Switzerland)‐group I. Group II additionally achieved a 5‐hole 4.5/5.0 mm LCP anteriorly. Each construct was cyclically loaded to failure in axial compression. Axial construct stiffness was 50.87 N/mm (SD 1.61) for group I compared to 738.68 N/mm (SD 94.8) for group II, this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.016). The number of cycles to failure was also significant higher for group II (2,375 vs. 13,000 cycles; p = 0.016). Double plating can significantly increase construct stiffness and stability, and thus, is an option in the treatment of complex periprosthetic fractures, in revision surgery and for patients with the inability to partial weight bear. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:234–239, 2017.
Pedotransfer function to predict density of forest soils in Switzerland
Authors: Nussbaum Madlene , Papritz Andreas , Zimmermann Stephan , Walthert Lorenz
Published: April 2016

Soil density is an important soil property, but respective measurements are usually scarce. With data from 559 mineral soil horizons (134 sites) we developed a linear regression pedotransfer function (PTF) for the density of forest soils (sieved to ≤ 2 mm). The field estimate of density was the most important covariate. RMSE of 0.205 Mg m−3andR2of 0.67, calculated on independent data (131 horizons), were better than the statistics obtained by published, recalibrated PTF (RMSE 0.271–0.324 Mg m−3;R20.28–0.42).
Essential E‐Mentors’ Characteristics for Mentoring Online Doctoral Dissertations: Faculty Views
Authors: Nieto Auslyn
Published: April 2016

Effective mentoring is an integral component of the doctoral dissertation process. Prior research amply explored the triadic symbiosis of faculty mentoring skills, responsibilities, and values within the dyadic mentor–protégé relationship, but did not substantively analyze faculty views of the essential e‐mentors’ characteristics for mentoring online doctoral dissertations. As a result of the lacunae in the mentoring literature, this qualitative case study investigated these views, using purposeful sampling methodology. Mentoring characteristics within the trifold convergence of values, professional skill, and relationships were explored through the lens of online doctoral faculty. Insights were gained through a voluntary, anonymous survey distributed to 10 experienced online doctoral dissertation Chairs via e‐mail. Data were collected from electronically administrated open‐ended surveys, telephone interviews with faculty, and faculty reflective journals. NVivo 10 software was utilized for organization, management, and categorization of data, and a custom‐built database to record and analyze 8 emergent themes using a pattern‐matching coding technique congruent with case study analysis. The results of Second Cycle coding corroborated extant faculty perspectives across the three mentoring domains—professional, psychosocial, and career—and revealed supplemental traits of tenacity, innovation, and adaptability to restrictive administrative protocols. When connected to the eight emergent themes, quality review processes presented barriers to both chairs and doctoral students. The study results may be transferred to similar contexts as this proposed research should prove beneficial to e‐mentors and doctoral learners. E‐mentors will be able to utilize the recommendations to more effectively mentor their students and better manage their relationship to the university.
African American Culture
Authors: Mtambuzi Thabiti
Published: April 2016

This article summarizes a study about the convergence of influences that led African American parents and educators to decide to support Independent Black Institutions (IBIs) through registering children or accepting employment. Parents and educators (teachers, administrators, and staff) who chose to support IBIs explained the values and preferences that led to their choices. Five themes emphasized a need for acceptance of community values and experiences whose preferences differed from the dominant White culture in the United States. Understanding these preferences could shed light on the experiences of minority or subcultural communities throughout the nation. The insights have implications for social organizations of every size within the diverse population of the 21st‐century American culture.
Preparation of dummy‐imprinted polymers by Pickering emulsion polymerization for the selective determination of seven bisphenols from sediment samples
Authors: Sun Hao , Li Yun , Yang Jiajia , Sun Xiaoli , Huang Chaonan , Zhang Xiangdong , Chen Jiping
Published: April 2016

The dummy molecularly imprinted polymers were prepared by Pickering emulsion polymerization. 4,4′‐(1‐Phenylethylidene) bisphenol was selected as the dummy template to avoid the leakage of the target bisphenols. The microsphere particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and nitrogen adsorption–desorption measurements, demonstrating that the regular‐shaped and medium‐sized particles (40–70 μm) were obtained with a specific surface area of 355.759 m2/g and a total pore volume of 0.561 cm3/g. The molecular imprinting properties of the particles were evaluated by static adsorption and chromatographic evaluation experiments. The association constant and maximum adsorption amount of bisphenol A were 0.115 mmol/L and 3.327 μmol/g using Scatchard analysis. The microsphere particles were then used as a solid‐phase extraction sorbent for selective extraction of seven bisphenols. The method of dummy molecularly imprinted solid‐phase extraction coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography and diode array detection was successfully established for the extraction and determination of seven bisphenols from environmental sediment samples with method detection limits of 0.6–1.1 ng/g. Good recoveries (75.5–105.2%) for sediment samples at two spiking levels (500 and 250 ng/g) and reproducibility (RSDs < 7.7%, n = 3) were obtained.
Liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy based discovery of cytotoxic principles from Daphne tangutica Maxim
Authors: Yang Xinzhou , Huang Mi , Zheng Sijian , Ma Xinhua , Wan Dingrong , Feng Yunjiang
Published: April 2016

An ethyl acetate extract from the barks of the ethnic Chinese medicine Daphne tangutica Maxim. exhibited antihepatocellular carcinoma activity against HepG2 and Hep3B cell lines. By using high‐performance liquid chromatography based activity profiling in combination with offline liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry and NMR analysis, we rapidly identified ten major components of the extract, including seven active principles, coumarins (1–4) and biscoumarins (7, 8, 10), along with three inactive flavonoids (5, 6, 9). This study demonstrated that our combined protocol can be used as an important strategy for chemical profiling, dereplication as well as the identification of bioactive compounds from herbal medicines.
Further investigation of a peptide extraction method with mesoporous silica using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Du Yan , Wu Dapeng , Guan Yafeng
Published: April 2016

Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41 (MCM‐41) was the most frequently used mesoporous silica material to extract peptides from complex biological samples. However, there were confusing extraction conditions and large extraction efficiency variance among related reports, which resulted from unclear understanding about the interaction between the material and peptides. In this study, the extraction mechanism was investigated with one set of tryptic peptides by using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Generally, hydrophobic interaction and electrostatic attraction were two major driving forces for extraction of peptides, while electrostatic repulsion greatly weakened the interaction between the material and peptides with isoelectric points below the pH. With most peptides positively charged and MCM‐41 slightly negatively charged, most efficient extraction was obtained at pH 3, and it was proved that electrostatic and hydrophobic interaction acted in synergy for extraction of all the peptides. A mixed solution of acetonitrile with buffers of high pH or ion strength was demonstrated to be favorable for elution, which performed much better than the commonly used eluate (mixture of acetonitrile with 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid). Finally, under optimum conditions, it was found that extraction efficiency of MCM‐41 for protein digest and human serum was greatly improved.
Simultaneous detection of eight active components in Radix Tinosporae by ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Xiang Qiuyue , Hashi Yuki , Chen Zilin
Published: April 2016

A rapid and sensitive ultra high performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of eight major active components (magnoflorine, menisperine, 20‐hydroxyecdysone, cepharanthine, columbamine, jatrorrhizine, columbin, and palmatine) in Radix Tinosporae. The separation was performed on an InterSustainSwift C18 column (1.9 μm, 2.1 id × 100 mm) at 40 °C with a gradient elution. A mixture of acetonitrile and methanol (v/v = 1:1) and ammonium acetate buffer (25 mmol/L ammonium acetate with 0.2% formic acid) were used as mobile phases, and the flow rate was set at 0.4 mL/min. The recovery was tested in real samples and calculated to be 86.97–111.28%, and all the compounds showed good linearity (r > 0.998) in relatively wide concentration ranges. The developed method was applied to the determination of eight active compounds in real herb samples, which were collected from four different places. It has been demonstrated that the proposed method has great potential for the quality control of the traditional Chinese medicine Radix Tinosporae.
Automatic on‐line solid‐phase extraction with ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry for the determination of ten antipsychotics in human plasma
Authors: Zhong Qisheng , Shen Lingling , Liu Jiaqi , Yu Dianbao , Li Simin , Li Zhiru , Yao Jinting , Huang Taohong , Kawano Shin‐ichi , Hashi Yuki , Zhou Ting
Published: April 2016

An automatic on‐line solid‐phase extraction with ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry method was developed for the simultaneous determination of ten antipsychotics in human plasma. The plasma sample after filtration was injected directly into the system without any pretreatment. A Shim‐pack MAYI‐C8 (G) column was used as a solid‐phase extraction column, and all the analytes were separated on a Shim‐pack XR‐ODS III column with a mobile phase consisting of 0.1% v/v formic acid in water with 5 mM ammonium acetate and acetonitrile. The method features were systematically investigated, including extraction conditions, desorption conditions, the equilibration solution, the valve switching time, and the dilution for column‐head stacking. Under the optimized conditions, the whole analysis procedure took only 10 min. The limits of quantitation were in the range of 0.00321–2.75 μg/L and the recoveries ranged from 75.9 to 122%. Compared with the off‐line ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography and the reported methods, this validated on‐line method showed significant advantages such as minimal pretreatment, shortest analysis time, and highest sensitivity. The results indicated that this automatic on‐line method was rapid, sensitive, and reliable for the determination of antipsychotics in plasma and could be extended to other target analytes in biological samples.
Vibratory stimulus reduces in vitro biofilm formation on tracheoesophageal voice prostheses
Authors: Wannemuehler Todd J. , Lobo Brian C. , Johnson Jeffrey D. , Deig Christopher R. , Ting Jonathan Y. , Gregory Richard L.
Published: April 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Demonstrate that biofilm formation will be reduced on tracheoesophageal prostheses when vibratory stimulus is applied, compared to controls receiving no vibratory stimulus, in a dynamic in vitro model of biofilm accumulation simulating the interface across the tracheoesophageal puncture site.

Study Design

Prospective, randomized, controlled, crossover in university laboratory.

Methods

Ex vivo tracheoesophageal prostheses were obtained from university‐affiliated speech language pathologists at Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis. Prostheses demonstrating physical integrity and an absence of gross biofilm accumulation were utilized. Sixteen prostheses were cleansed and sterilized prior to random placement by length in two modified Robbins devices arranged in parallel. Each device was seeded with a polymicrobial oral flora on day 1 and received basal artificial salivary flow continuously with three growth medium meals daily. One device was randomly selected for vibratory stimulus, and 2 minutes of vibration was applied to each prosthesis before and after meals for 5 days. The prostheses were explanted and sonicated, and the biofilm cultured for enumeration. This process was repeated after study arm crossover.

Results

Tracheoesophageal prostheses in the dynamic model receiving vibratory stimulus demonstrated reduced gross biofilm accumulation and a significant biofilm colony forming unit per milliliter reduction of 5.56‐fold compared to nonvibratory controls (P < 0.001). Significant reductions were observed within length subgroups.

Conclusion

Application of vibratory stimulus around meal times significantly reduces biofilm accumulation on tracheoesophageal prostheses in a dynamic in vitro model. Further research using this vibratory stimulus method in vivo will be required to determine if reduced biofilm accumulation correlates with longer device lifespan.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 126:2752–2757, 2016
Modeling Sediment Yield in Semi‐Arid Pasture Micro‐Catchments, NW Iran
Authors: Vaezi Ali Reza , Abbasi Mohammad , Bussi Gianbattista , Keesstra Saskia
Published: April 2016

Modeling sediment yield is a complex task because of the nonlinearity of natural processes intervening at slope and basin scale. In this study slope steepness, vegetation cover, and soil properties along with sediment yield were studied in 20 pasture micro‐catchments in a semi‐arid region, NW Iran in order to understand and predict sediment yield. The micro‐catchments included only one first‐order gully and drain toward a rock check dam in the outlet. The sediment yield of each micro‐catchment was calculated using the measurement of sediment mass in the check dams for a 16‐year period (1994–2010). Relationships between sediment yield and drainage characteristics were analyzed using correlation matrix and multiple linear regression method. Based on the results, sediment yield in the micro‐catchments varied from 0.29 Mg ha−1 y−1 to 14.81 Mg ha−1 y−1, with an average of 5.04 Mg ha−1 y−1. It was significantly related to slope steepness, vegetation cover, and soil organic matter using a linear regression equation (R2 = 0.87, p < 0.001). The slope, vegetation, and soil organic matter explained about 44%, 23%, and 20% of total variance in sediment yield, respectively. The spatial validation of the model using data from eight different micro‐catchments located nearby showed that the model efficiency is 0.94. Therefore, the model can be used for predicting sediment yield in this and similar study area, with a high degree of accuracy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conuclear images of substructural logics
Authors: Frosoni Giulia
Published: April 2016

Our work proposes to study the conuclear image of a substructural logic and in particular to investigate the relationship between a substructural logic and its conuclear image. We analyze some axioms familiar to substructural logics and we check if they: (a) are preserved under conuclear images, (b) never hold in a conuclear image, or (c) are compatible with conuclear images but are not necessarily preserved under conuclear images. Moreover, we prove that the conuclear image of any substructural logic has the disjunction property. We finally give a sufficient condition in order that an inequality is preserved under conuclear images and observe that if we slightly relax this condition, we meet counterexamples of inequalities that are not preserved under conuclear images.
Modelling the compression behavior of ground tire rubber
Authors: Nadal A. , Boix M. , Parres F. , Agud L. , Crespo J. E. , Macías‐García A.
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this paper was to study elastomer powder from crushed used tires (CUTs). In particular, the behavior of the green density of elastomeric powder was analyzed by varying compaction pressure. In the Anglo‐saxon bibliography, this powder is known as ground tire rubber: ground tire rubber (GTR). The density of the tyre was made using a hydrostatic balance, the analysis of grain size using cribbing sieves, and the measures of compression parameters by means of a Universal Testing Machine. The main goal was to obtain a behavior model of ground tire rubber along different compaction pressures. This model was used to predict optimum compaction pressures in order to achieve the highest density. This was the first step to obtain recycled products when sintering processes are applied, evidently if thermal compression was used as a manufacturing process. This established model predicted the evolution of green density versus compaction pressures very accurately.
The application of dimension split method in the three‐dimensional heat equation
Authors: Zhao Jianping , Hou Yanren , Zheng Haibiao , Li Yongfei , Wang Haifeng
Published: April 2016

A dimension splitting method (DSM) with Crank–Nicolson time discrete strategy for a three‐dimensional heat equation is proposed. The basic idea is to simulate the three‐Dimensional problem by numerically solving a series of two‐dimensional problems in parallel fashion. Convergence and error estimation for the DSM scheme are derived in the paper. Numerical experiments demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of the DSM scheme. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic variations of the bitter taste receptor TAS2R38 are associated with obesity and impact on single immune traits
Authors: Ortega Francisco J. , Agüera Zaida , Sabater Mònica , Moreno‐Navarrete José M , Alonso‐Ledesma Isabel , Xifra Gemma , Botas Patricia , Delgado Elías , Jimenez‐Murcia Susana , Fernández‐García José C. , Tinahones Francisco J , Baños Rosa M. , Botella Cristina , de la Torre Rafael , Frühbeck Gema , Rodrigüez Amaia , Estivill Xavier , Casanueva Felipe , Ricart Wifredo , Fernández‐Aranda Fernando , Fernández‐Real José M.
Published: April 2016

Scope

Changes in genetic variations affecting the taste receptor, type 2, member 38 (TAS2R38) may identify the interacting mechanism leading to obesity and potential associations with proteins partaking in innate immunity, such as surfactant protein D (SPD) and mannan‐binding lectin (MBL).

Methods and results

We evaluated haplotypes of the bitter‐taste receptor TAS2R38 in an identification sample of 210 women in different weight conditions, including anorexia nervosa and obesity. The association with SPD and MBL was tested in an independent sample picturing general population (n = 534). The relationship with obesity was validated in an extended final sample of 1319 participants. In the sample comprised of women in extreme weight conditions, increased obesity was identified in AVI/AVI subjects (OR = 2.5 [1.06–6.11], p = 0.035). In the sample picturing general population, increased SPD and MBL concentrations were found in nonsmoking AVI carriers. In this cohort, smoking and obesity blunted associations between TAS2R38 haplotypes and SPD and MBL. In the extended sample, the association of AVI/AVI haplotypes with increased obesity was also identified (OR = 1.4 [0.99/1.85], p = 0.049), being more robust in subjects aged <40 years (OR = 1.9 [1.06/3.42], p = 0.031).

Conclusion

Current data reinforce the impact of TAS2R38 gene on phenotypic and clinical outputs affecting obesity, showing significant associations with extreme weight conditions (i.e., obesity and anorexia nervosa), and changes in both olfactory capacity and immune traits.
Isolated gluteal and paravertebral muscle weakness due to anti‐3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme a reductase antibody–associated necrotizing autoimmune myopathy
Authors: McGrath Nicole M. , Turner Clinton P.
Published: April 2016

Introduction: A 56‐year‐old man with a distant history of statin use presented with progressive isolated very proximal lower limb and truncal weakness. Electromyogram (EMG) showed isolated gluteal and lumbar paraspinal muscle involvement. Methods: Gluteus medius muscle biopsy was performed under general anesthesia. Results: The biopsy showed a pauci‐inflammatory necrotizing myopathy. Serum antibodies to 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) were positive. He has since partially responded to corticosteroids and methotrexate. Conclusions: Anti‐HMGCR–associated necrotizing autoimmune myopathy (NAM) can present in a restricted form after cessation of a statin. Biopsy of a symptomatic but uncommonly studied muscle is worthwhile. Muscle Nerve 54: 150–152, 2016
Nocturia as a marker of poor health: Causal associations to inform care
Authors: Bower Wendy F. , Whishaw D. Michael , Khan Fary
Published: April 2016

Aims

Nocturia is a common symptom of many conditions and is encountered in patients presenting to services across different medical specialities and health disciplines. The causal pathway of nocturia is multi‐factorial and differs between patients. There is currently no symptom‐specific clinical algorithm for all‐cause diagnosis of nocturia. The aim of this study was to investigate the interrelationships between causes of nocturia in order to inform the development of a comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment metric.

Methods

A PubMed search that identified studies reporting relationships between nocturia and a priori aetiological factors was conducted by cross referencing the term “nocturia” with “polyuria, postural hypotension, hypertension, cardiac function, heart failure, depression, anxiety, polypharmacy, sleep disturbance, sleep disorder, apnoea, and lower urinary tract symptoms.” Directed acyclic graphs (DAGS) were constructed to visually represent causal assumptions and to identify underlying relationships.

Results

This study confirmed that causality of nocturia can be expressed in a directed acyclic graph, with the key variables being cardiovascular dysfunction, polyuria, sleep disturbance, mental health, metabolic and inflammatory changes, health status and lower urinary tract symptoms. None of the variables were independently a sufficient or necessary direct cause of nocturia and multiple backdoor pathways exist to nocturnal voiding. Polypharmacy, increasing age and BMI all have confounding effects.

Conclusions

There are significant interactions between voiding at night and metabolic, cardiovascular, hormonal, mental health, sleep and inflammatory changes that flag nocturia as a likely marker of co‐morbid poor health. Patients should be comprehensively evaluated for all‐causes of nocturia since multiple aetiologies commonly co‐exist. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:697–705, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.