bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deficiency of Sef Is Associated With Increased Postnatal Cortical Bone Mass by Regulating Runx2 Activity
Authors: He Qing , Yang Xuehui , Gong Yan , Kovalenko Dmitry , Canalis Ernesto , Rosen Clifford J , Friesel Robert E
Published: October 2013

Sef (similar expression to fgf genes) is a feedback inhibitor of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling and functions in part by binding to FGF receptors and inhibiting their activation. Genetic studies in mice and humans indicate an important role for fibroblast growth factor signaling in bone growth and homeostasis. We, therefore, investigated whether Sef had a function role in skeletal acquisition and remodeling. Sef expression is increased during osteoblast differentiation in vitro, and LacZ staining of Sef+/− mice showed high expression of Sef in the periosteum and chondro-osseous junction of neonatal and adult mice. Mice with a global deletion of Sef showed increased cortical bone thickness, bone volume, and increased periosteal perimeter by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Histomorphometric analysis of cortical bone revealed a significant increase in osteoblast number. Interestingly, Sef−/− mice showed very little difference in trabecular bone by micro-CT and histomorphometry compared with wild-type mice. Bone marrow cells from Sef−/− mice grown in osteogenic medium showed increased proliferation and increased osteoblast differentiation compared with wild-type bone marrow cells. Bone marrow cells from Sef−/− mice showed enhanced FGF2-induced activation of the ERK pathway, whereas bone marrow cells from Sef transgenic mice showed decreased FGF2-induced signaling. FGF2-induced acetylation and stability of Runx2 was enhanced in Sef−/− bone marrow cells, whereas overexpression of Sef inhibited Runx2-responsive luciferase reporter activity. Bone marrow from Sef−/− mice showed enhanced hematopoietic lineage-dependent and osteoblast-dependent osteoclastogenesis and increased bone resorptive activity relative to wild-type controls in in vitro assays, whereas overexpression of Sef inhibited osteoclast differentiation. Taken together, these studies indicate that Sef has specific roles in osteoblast and osteoclast lineages and that its absence results in increased osteoblast and osteoclast activity with a net increase in cortical bone mass. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The Pivotal Role of microRNA‐155 in the Control of Cancer
Authors: Chen Zhaolin , Ma Taotao , Huang Cheng , Hu Tingting , Li Jun
Published: October 2013

microRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as important gene expression regulators linked to various biological processes at a posttranscriptional level. miRNAs have been known to play important roles in cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and apoptosis. Recently, accumulate studies indicate that up‐regulation of miR‐155 has been described in several types of human tumors. miR‐155 has been considered to act as an oncogene or a tumor suppressor, depending on tumor system. Silencing oncomiRs or gene therapy approaches could be an effective therapeutic approach against tumor. Here we review the current knowledge on the functional role of miR‐155 in the control of various cancers. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 545–550, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microwave‐assisted aqueous two‐phase extraction of phenolics from grape (Vitis vinifera) seed
Authors: Dang Yan‐Yan , Zhang Hua , Xiu Zhi‐Long
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

The wine making process produces a large quantity of grape marc, which includes grape seeds, skins, and stems. These byproducts comprise approximately 20% of the harvested grapes. Aqueous two‐phase extraction (ATPE) composed of short‐chain alcohol, inorganic salt, and water is a novel approach used to separate active constituents from fermentation broth or natural plant. A microwave‐assisted aqueous two‐phase extraction (MAATPE) method was used to obtain phenolic compounds from grape seeds. The partitioning behavior of the phenolic compounds in the MAATPE system was assessed.

RESULTS

Phenolic compounds were extracted into the top acetone‐rich phase at 32% (w/w) acetone/16% (w/w) ammonium citrate. The maximum yield of total phenolics, flavonoid, and proanthocyanidin were 82.7, 52.6, and 30.7 mg g−1, respectively. The corresponding recovery rates were 97.1%, 97.9%, and 99.3%. The antioxidant activity of seed extracts was determined by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonate) (ABTS) radical‐scavenging ability (IC50). No significant correlation was found between free radical scavenging capacity and TP content.

CONCLUSION

MAATPE required lower solvent concentration and less treatment time to extract high amounts of phenolics from grape seeds compared with the other methods. MAATPE has the potential for the extraction, clarification, and concentration of target products using a single step. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
The treatment of animal manure wastewater by coupled simultaneous methanogenesis and denitrification (SMD) and shortcut nitrification–denitrification (SND)
Authors: He Qingming , Peng Xuya , Li Zhiyang
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

The anaerobic–aerobic system is considered an efficient process for simultaneous removal of organic matter and nitrogen from animal manure wastewater. In this work, coupled simultaneous methanogenesis and denitrification (SMD) and shortcut nitrification–denitrification (SND) was investigated to treat animal manure wastewater having high concentrations of nitrogen and organic matter.

RESULTS

The best COD and NO2−‐N removal efficiency was achieved when the influent COD loading rate in the anaerobic reactor was 3 kg m‐3 d−1 and the COD/NO2−‐N ratio was above 30. It was advantageous to the treatment of high‐strength ammonia animal manure wastewater to adopt SND when the pH and free ammonia were about 8.0 and 18 mg L−1, respectively. The average efficiency of of removal COD, NH4+‐N, and total nitrogen when adopting the coupling technology was 96.7%, 94.9% and 86.5%, respectively, and the nitrite accumulation rate reached 94.55%.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that it was technically feasible to adopt SMD–SND coupling technology of to treat animal manure wastewater with high concentrations of nitrogen and organic matter. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Peroral pancreatoscopy using the SpyGlass system for the assessment of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas
Authors: Nagayoshi Yosuke , Aso Teppei , Ohtsuka Takao , Kono Hiroshi , Ideno Noboru , Igarashi Hisato , Takahata Shunichi , Oda Yoshinao , Ito Tetsuhide , Tanaka Masao
Published: October 2013

Background

Peroral pancreatoscopy (POPS) using a mother–baby endoscope system is often useful for assessment of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas with main pancreatic duct (MPD) involvement, but is not widely used for several reasons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of the SpyGlass Direct Visualization System for assessment of IPMN.

Methods

Seventeen patients diagnosed with possible IPMN with MPD dilation underwent peroral pancreatoscopy using the SpyGlass system at our institution. The quality of visualization and the sensitivities of cytological and pathological investigations for diagnosing malignant lesions were evaluated.

Results

Peroral pancreatoscopy was performed using the SpyScope in 12 patients and an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) catheter in five patients. Sufficient visualization was achieved in 92% of cases using the SpyScope and 40% of cases using the ERCP catheter. Biopsy under direct visualization was successful in seven patients. Biopsy specimens showed adenocarcinoma in one patient, benign neoplastic epithelium in five patients, and regenerative changes in one patient; and had 25% sensitivity and 100% specificity for detecting malignancy. SpyGlass pancreatoscopy with irrigation cytology had 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity for detecting malignancy. SpyGlass pancreatoscopy was useful for determining the operative excision line in three patients. There were no severe procedure‐related adverse events.

Conclusions

Peroral pancreatoscopy using the SpyGlass system seems to be feasible and useful for assessment of IPMN with a dilated MPD.
FEMINIST CHANGE REVISITED: GENDER MAINSTREAMING AS SLOW REVOLUTION
Authors: Davids Tine , van Driel Francien , Parren Franny
Published: October 2013

Within the growing body of literature on gender mainstreaming, intense and vivid discussions on an assumed loss of transformative potential and a feminist, revolutionary promise of change exist. Our analysis uses a paradigm shift in thinking on power and social relations, for analysing conceptualisations of both gender and change. We point to the necessity of rethinking this revolutionary feminist promise and its underlying subject theory. In breaking away from a utopian vision of change, we argue that gender mainstreaming can be considered part of what we will label a slow revolution. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ESCAPING THE MYTHICAL BEAST: GENDER MAINSTREAMING RECONCEPTUALISED
Authors: van Eerdewijk Anouka , Davids Tine
Published: October 2013

Abstract: Since the early 2000s, disappointment has grown about the realization of the transformative potential that was ascribed to gender mainstreaming at its launch at the Beijing conference in 1995. The critiques on gender mainstreaming tend to represent gender mainstreaming as a ‘mythical beast’, and as such take for granted the social change it is intended to produce. This special issue seeks to look both beyond and inside the mythical beast. By approaching policy making as a social practice embedded in discursive politics, we seek to advance the theoretical underpinnings of gender mainstreaming and argue for a rethinking of agency and transformation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
EXPLORING THE TRANSFORMATIVE POTENTIAL OF GENDER MAINSTREAMING IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Parpart Jane L.
Published: October 2013

Gender mainstreaming, with its promise of gender transformation, equality and empowerment, has become a central pillar of development discourse, policy and practice. Yet, the implementation of these promises has largely been disappointing. Proposed ‘solutions’ have brought little new to the table. This article suggests that we need to rethink the link between policy and implementation, recognising that both are political processes and that while policies set agendas, both policies and their implementation are deeply influenced by societal factors. Drawing on critical development analysis and feminist writings, the article explores the transformative potential of gender mainstreaming in international development organisations in an increasingly complex, unequal and gendered world. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GENDER MAINSTREAMING IN THE CONTEXT OF CHANGING AID MODALITIES: INSIGHTS FROM TWO PARIS DECLARATION CHAMPIONS
Authors: Holvoet Nathalie , Inberg Liesbeth
Published: October 2013

This article explores how gender issues have been dealt with in the context of the aid reform processes laid down in the 2005 Paris Declaration (PD). In doing this, the study draws upon evidence from the Netherlands and Tanzania, two PD champions. The article points to yet unused opportunities to promote gender mainstreaming in policies and systems as well as pressing challenges with regard to projects that are specifically targeted at gender equality and women's empowerment. It argues that the disappointing state of affairs may partly be attributed to the narrowly technocratic way in which the PD has thus far been understood and implemented. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brain anatomy of the marine tardigrade actinarctus doryphorus (arthrotardigrada)
Authors: Persson Dennis K. , Halberg Kenneth A. , Jørgensen Aslak , Møbjerg Nadja , Kristensen Reinhardt M.
Published: October 2013

Knowledge of tardigrade brain structure is important for resolving the phylogenetic relationships of Tardigrada. Here, we present new insight into the morphology of the brain in a marine arthrotardigrade, Actinarctus doryphorus, based on transmission electron microscopy, supported by scanning electron microscopy, conventional light microscopy as well as confocal laser scanning microscopy. Arthrotardigrades contain a large number of plesiomorphic characters and likely represent ancestral tardigrades. They often have segmented body outlines and each trunk segment, with its paired set of legs, may have up to five sensory appendages. Noticeably, the head carries numerous cephalic appendages that are structurally equivalent to the sensory appendages of the trunk segments. Our data reveal that the brain of A. doryphorus is partitioned into three paired lobes, and that these lobes exhibit a more pronounced separation as compared to that of eutardigrades. The first brain lobe in A. doryphorus is located anteriodorsally, with the second lobe just below it in an anterioventral position. Both of these two paired lobes are located anterior to the buccal tube. The third pair of brain lobes are situated posterioventrally to the first two lobes, and flank the buccal tube. In addition, A. doryphorus possesses a subpharyngeal ganglion, which is connected with the first of the four ventral trunk ganglia. The first and second brain lobes in A. doryphorus innervate the clavae and cirri of the head. The innervations of these structures indicate a homology between, respectively, the clavae and cirri of A. doryphorus and the temporalia and papilla cephalica of eutardigrades. The third brain lobes innervate the buccal lamella and the stylets as described for eutardigrades. Collectively, these findings suggest that the head region of extant tardigrades is the result of cephalization of multiple segments. Our results on the brain anatomy of Actinarctus doryphorus support the monophyly of Panarthropoda. J. Morphol. 275:173–190, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical performance of contrast enhanced abdominal pediatric MRI with fast combined parallel imaging compressed sensing reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Tao , Chowdhury Shilpy , Lustig Michael , Barth Richard A. , Alley Marcus T. , Grafendorfer Thomas , Calderon Paul D. , Robb Fraser J.L. , Pauly John M. , Vasanawala Shreyas S.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To deploy clinically, a combined parallel imaging compressed sensing method with coil compression that achieves a rapid image reconstruction, and assess its clinical performance in contrast‐enhanced abdominal pediatric MRI.

Materials and Methods

With Institutional Review Board approval and informed patient consent/assent, 29 consecutive pediatric patients were recruited. Dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI was acquired on a 3 Tesla scanner using a dedicated 32‐channel pediatric coil and a three‐dimensional SPGR sequence, with pseudo‐random undersampling at a high acceleration (R = 7.2). Undersampled data were reconstructed with three methods: a traditional parallel imaging method and a combined parallel imaging compressed sensing method with and without coil compression. The three sets of images were evaluated independently and blindly by two radiologists at one siting, for overall image quality and delineation of anatomical structures. Wilcoxon tests were performed to test the hypothesis that there was no significant difference in the evaluations, and interobserver agreement was analyzed.

Results

Fast reconstruction with coil compression did not deteriorate image quality. The mean score of structural delineation of the fast reconstruction was 4.1 on a 5‐point scale, significantly better (P < 0.05) than traditional parallel imaging (mean score 3.1). Fair to substantial interobserver agreement was reached in structural delineation assessment.

Conclusion

A fast combined parallel imaging compressed sensing method is feasible in a pediatric clinical setting. Preliminary results suggest it may improve structural delineation over parallel imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:13–25. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Usefulness of india ink artifact in steady‐state free precession pulse sequences for detection and quantification of intramyocardial fat
Authors: Aquaro Giovanni Donato , Todiere Giancarlo , Strata Elisabetta , Barison Andrea , Di Bella Gianluca , Lombardi Massimo
Published: October 2013

Purpose

In steady state free precession (SSFP) images acquired with a repetition time/echo time (TR/TE) ≈ 2, fat is surrounded by a black boundary, called “India Ink” artifact. Indian Ink artifact may improve detection of intramyocardial fat. Aims of this study were: (i) to assess the accuracy of SSFP technique for the detection of fat metaplasia in remote myocardial infarction (RMI); (ii) to evaluate the inter‐ and intraobserver reproducibility for the quantification of intramyocardial fat using SSFP and fast spin echo/short TI inversion recovery (FSE/STIR) techniques.

Materials and Methods

A total of 200 patients (age 64 ± 10 years) with RMI (>1000 days) underwent MRI using a 1.5 Tesla (T) scanner. SSFP images (with a TR/TE ≈2), FSE and STIR images were acquired in short and long axis views. Fat was detected in FSE/STIR and SSFP images and its extent manually measured . The inter‐ and intraobserver agreement for the quantification of fat metaplasia using both the SSFP image and the FSE images was evaluated.

Results

Left ventricle intramyocardial fat was detected in SSFP images of 95 patients (47.5%) and in FSE/STIR images of 84 patients (42%). A very good agreement was found using the SSFP technique between investigators.

Conclusion

SSFP sequence with TR/TE=2 is a valuable technique for identifying and quantifying the presence of fat tissue within the left ventricle myocardium in RMI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:126–132. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asymptomatic hematuria associated with urinary polyomavirus infection in immunocompetent patients
Authors: Lee Sung Hak , Hong Sung Hoo , Lee Ji Youl , Hwang Tae Kon , Kim Kyoung Suk , Lee Hyoungnam , Choi Yeong Jin
Published: October 2013

Unlike the case for immunodeficient patients, little is known about polyomavirus (PV) infection in immunocompetent patients. PV infection in immunocompetent individuals has been reported sporadically, but little is known about asymptomatic hematuria. To determine the clinical significance and prevalence of urinary PV infection in immunocompetent patients, a total of 95 individuals admitted to Seoul St. Mary's hospital were investigated. Sixty‐four patients were enrolled for evaluation of asymptomatic hematuria, and 31 healthy individuals served as controls. Clinical screening for PV infection was performed by urine cytology analysis by liquid‐based preparation and urine RT‐PCR for BK virus (BKV) and JC virus (JCV), respectively. The average age of the patients in the PV+‐ and PV−‐groups with asymptomatic hematuria were 60 years and 46 years, respectively. Urine cytology analysis revealed decoy cells in 37/64 hematuria patients (38.9%), but not in healthy controls. They were more prevalent in male patients. Eighty‐two patients (86.3%) had PV viruria, viz., 54/64 patients in the hematuria group and 28/31 in the control group. Interestingly, 28/31 (90.3%) cases in the healthy control group were positive for PV viruria, which exceeded the number in the hematuria group (84.4%). PV viruria was associated primarily with JCV, rather than BKV. PV viruria, including JCV viruria, correlated with urine decoy cells and increased age. In conclusion, urinary PV infection is common in immunocompetent patients with asymptomatic hematuria and is age‐related. These data may provide an insight into the pathogenesis and future treatment of asymptomatic hematuria associated with urinary PV infection in immunocompetent patients. J. Med. Virol. 86:347–353, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Large scale study of HPV genotypes in cervical cancer and different cytological cervical specimens in Thailand
Authors: Chansaenroj Jira , Junyangdikul Pairoj , Chinchai Teeraporn , Swangvaree Sukumarn , Karalak Anant , Gemma Nobuhiro , Poovorawan Yong
Published: October 2013

Identification of high‐risk HPV genotypes in patients is essential for vaccination and prevention programs while the geographic distribution of cervical cancer varies widely. HPV 16 is the major cause of cervical cancer followed by HPV 18, HPV 31, HPV 52, or HPV 58 depending on geographic area. In this study, the distribution of HPV genotypes in cervical specimens from women living in Thailand was analyzed by HPV testing with electrochemical DNA chip and PCR direct sequencing. The 716 specimens were grouped according to their cytological grades; 100 normal, 100 low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, 100 high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, and 416 specimens of cervical cancer. The results showed that HPV 16, HPV 18, HPV 52, and HPV 58 are the most common HPV genotypes in Thailand, respectively. With respect to age, women below the age of 26 years were almost negative for high‐risk HPV DNA exclusively. Conversely, high prevalence of high‐risk HPV DNA and abnormal cytology were usually found in women between 26 and 45 years while cervical cancer was detected mainly in women above the age of 45 years. To increase protection efficiency, a vaccine including HPV 52 and HPV 58 should be offered to Asian women, and primary HPV screening should start at 26–30 years of age. J. Med. Virol. 86:601–607, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Significant impact of non‐B HIV‐1 variants genetic diversity in Gabon on plasma HIV‐1 RNA quantitation
Authors: Mouinga‐Ondémé Augustin , Mabika‐Mabika Arsène , Alalade Patrick , Mongo Arnaud Delis , Sica Jeanne , Liégeois Florian , Rouet François
Published: October 2013

Evaluations of HIV‐1 RNA viral load assays are lacking in Central Africa. The main objective of our study was to assess the reliability of HIV‐1 RNA results obtained with three different assays for samples collected in Gabon. A total of 137 plasma specimens were assessed for HIV‐1 RNA using the Abbott RealTime HIV‐1® and Nuclisens HIV‐1 EasyQ® version 2.0 assays. It included HIV‐1 non‐B samples (n = 113) representing six subtypes, 10 CRFs and 18 URFs from patients infected with HIV‐1 and treated with antiretrovirals that were found HIV‐1 RNA positive (≥300 copies/ml) with the Generic HIV viral load® assay; and samples (n = 24) from untreated individuals infected with HIV‐1 but showing undetectable (<300 copies/ml) results with the Biocentric kit. For samples found positive with the Generic HIV viral load® test, correlation coefficients obtained between the three techniques were relatively low (R = 0.65 between Generic HIV viral load® and Abbott RealTime HIV‐1®, 0.50 between Generic HIV viral load® and Nuclisens HIV‐1 EasyQ®, and 0.66 between Abbott RealTime HIV‐1® and Nuclisens HIV‐1 EasyQ®). Discrepancies by at least one log10 were obtained for 19.6%, 33.7%, and 20% of samples, respectively, irrespective of genotype. Most of samples (22/24) from untreated study patients, found negative with the Biocentric kit, were also found negative with the two other techniques. In Central Africa, HIV‐1 genetic diversity remains challenging for viral load testing. Further studies are required in the same area to confirm the presence of HIV‐1 strains that are not amplified with at least two different viral load assays. J. Med. Virol. 86:52–57, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A comparison of slow, uphill and fast, level walking on lower extremity biomechanics and tibiofemoral joint loading in obese and nonobese adults
Authors: Haight Derek J. , Lerner Zachary F. , Board Wayne J. , Browning Raymond C.
Published: October 2013

We determined if slow, uphill walking (0.75 m/s, 6°) reduced tibiofemoral (TF) loading compared to faster, level walking (1.50 m/s) in obese and nonobese adults. We collected kinematic, kinetic, and electromyographic data as 9 moderately obese and 10 nonobese participants walked on a dual‐belt instrumented treadmill. We used OpenSim to scale a musculoskeletal model and calculate joint kinematics, kinetics, muscle forces, and TF forces. Compressive TF forces were greater in the obese adults during both speed/grade combinations. During level walking, obese participants walked with a straighter leg than nonobese participants, resulting in early stance vasti muscle forces that were similar in the obese and nonobese participants. Early stance peak compressive TF forces were reduced by 23% in obese (2,352 to 1,811 N) and 35% in nonobese (1,994 to 1,303 N) individuals during slow, uphill walking compared to brisk level walking. Late stance peak TF forces were similar across speeds/grades, but were greater in obese (∼2,900 N) compared to nonobese (∼1,700 N) individuals. Smaller early stance TF loads and loading rates suggest that slow, uphill walking may be appropriate exercise for obese individuals at risk for musculoskeletal pathology or pain. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:324–330, 2014.
Birth of room‐temperature magnons and Raman line enhancement in ZnO nanostructures containing cobalt oxide
Authors: Pandiyarajan T. , Karthikeyan B.
Published: October 2013

Cobalt (Co) addition and thermal annealing induced structural and vibrational properties of ZnO nanostructures were analysed. X‐ray diffraction pattern reveals that the nanostructures are in hexagonal wurtzite type and the formation of Co3O4. The Co ion induced morphology changes have been studied by high‐resolution scanning electron microscope images and energy dispersive spectroscopy measurements confirm the presence of Co ions. CoO‐related magnon excitation bands are emerged at room temperature for the Co‐added samples. There are no changes in the band positions of the Raman spectra of pure and Co‐added materials. Annealed sample exhibits the suppression of magnon bands and formation of Co3O4: ZnO composites. Raman line width and the electron phonon coupling constant are decreased with respect to the annealing temperature. The formation of Co3O4 : ZnO composite phases have further confirmed by infrared spectra. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simple and inexpensive instrument for deep‐UV Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Troyanova‐Wood M. A. , Petrov G. I. , Yakovlev V. V.
Published: October 2013

Deep‐UV Raman spectroscopy is a powerful way to collect chemically specific information about complex samples. The availability of inexpensive and reliable light sources in the spectral region below 250 nm has been always considered a major bottleneck problem on the way of a widespread of this powerful spectroscopic technique. We report on the efficient fourth‐harmonic generation of a low‐power microchip Nd:YAG laser operating at 946 nm. High‐quality deep‐UV Raman spectra were collected using a newly developed laser source. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Could marine aerosol contribute to deteriorate building materials from interior areas of lighthouses? An answer from the analytical chemistry point of view
Authors: Morillas Héctor , Maguregui Maite , Gómez‐Laserna Olivia , Trebolazabala Josu , Madariaga Juan Manuel
Published: October 2013

In this work, a multianalytical methodology based on a combination of spectroscopic techniques such as Raman spectroscopy and micro energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy, and soluble salt analysis by means of ion chromatography followed by a correlation analysis of these data was applied, in order to identify the nature of the deterioration compounds present in different building materials located on inner rooms from the ground floor of the Igueldo lighthouse (San Sebastian, Basque Country, North of Spain), and in order to prove if marine aerosol could contribute to cause deterioration processes in this kind of materials. The main deterioration compounds identified were sulfate and nitrate salts. Taking into consideration the positioning of some materials, a gypsum plaster covering them could be the sulfate source responsible of the crystallisation process of a wide variety of sulfate salts. Nevertheless, in some areas were no gypsum plaster remains are present, ammonium sulfate crystallisations were identified. The presence of this kind of sulfate could suggest a possible sulfate input coming from the migration of ammonium sulfate (among other sulfate salts) carried on marine aerosol, which can be deposited on the facade of the lighthouse and migrate to its inner areas. The possible source of nitrates that could cause the crystallisation of a wide variety of nitrate salts identified in this work could be the infiltration of ammonium nitrates coming from seagull droppings from outdoor to indoor areas. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Au@SiO2 core/shell nanoparticle assemblage used for highly sensitive SERS‐based determination of glucose and uric acid
Authors: Quyen Tran Thi Bich , Su Wei‐Nien , Chen Kuan‐Jung , Pan Chun‐Jern , Rick John , Chang Chun‐Chao , Hwang Bing‐Joe
Published: October 2013

The use of Au@SiO2 core/shell nanoparticle (NP) assemblage with highly sensitive surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) was investigated for the determination of glucose and uric acid in this study. Rhodamine 6G dye molecules were used to evaluate the SERS enhancement factor for the synthesized Au@SiO2 core/shell NPs with various silica shell thicknesses. The enhancement of SERS signal from Rhodamine 6G was found to increase with a decrease in the shell thickness. The core/shell assemblage with silica layer of 1–2 nm over a Au NP of ~36 nm showed the highest SERS signal. Our results show that the SERS technique is able to detect glucose and uric acid within wide concentration ranges, i.e. 20 ng/dL to 20 mg/dL (10−12–10−3 M) and 16.8 ng/dL to 2.9 mg/dL (10−11–1.72 × 10−4 M), respectively, with associated lower detection limits of ~20 ng/dL (~1.0 × 10−12 M) and ~16.8 ng/dL (~1.0 × 10−11 M). Our work offers a low‐cost route to the fabrication of agile sensing devices applicable to the monitoring of disease progression. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonlinear absorption and refraction in crystalline silicon in the mid‐infrared
Authors: Gai Xin , Yu Yi , Kuyken Bart , Ma Pan , Madden Steve J. , Van Campenhout Joris , Verheyen Peter , Roelkens Gunther , Baets Roel , Luther‐Davies Barry
Published: October 2013

The wavelength dependence of the nonlinear absorption and the third order nonlinear refraction of crystalline silicon between m and m as well as at m have been measured. It was found that at all wavelengths multi‐photon and free carrier absorption can be significant. In particular nonlinear absorption can affect silicon devices designed for the mid‐infrared that require strong nonlinear response, such as for the generation of a supercontinuum.
Chiral nanoemitter array: A launchpad for optical vortices
Authors: Coles Matt M. , Williams Mathew D. , Saadi Kamel , Bradshaw David S. , Andrews David L.
Published: October 2013

A chiral arrangement of molecular nanoemitters is shown to support delocalised exciton states whose spontaneous decay can generate optical vortex radiation. In contrast to techniques in which phase modification is imposed upon conventional optical beams, this exciton method enables radiation with a helical wave‐front to be produced directly. To achieve this end, a number of important polarisation and symmetry‐based criteria need to be satisfied. It emerges that the phase structure of the optical field produced by degenerate excitons in a propeller‐shaped array can exhibit precisely the sought character of an optical vortex – one with unit topological charge. Practical considerations for the further development of this technique are discussed, and potential new applications are identified.
Strategies for improved 3D small‐tip fast recovery imaging
Authors: Sun Hao , Fessler Jeffrey A. , Noll Douglas C. , Nielsen Jon‐Fredrik
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Small‐tip fast recovery (STFR) imaging is a recently proposed steady‐state sequence that has similar image contrast as balanced steady‐state free precession but has the potential to simultaneously remove banding artifacts and transient fluctuation. STFR relies on a “tip‐up” radiofrequency (RF) pulse tailored to the accumulated phase during the free precession (data acquisition) interval, designed to bring spins back to the longitudinal axis, thereby preserving transverse magnetization as longitudinal magnetization for the next pulse repetition time. We recently proposed an RF‐spoiled STFR sequence suitable for thin slab imaging, however, in many applications, e.g., functional magnetic resonance imaging or isotropic‐resolution structural imaging, three‐dimensional (3D) steady‐state imaging is desirable. Unfortunately, 3D STFR imaging is challenging due to the need for 3D tailored RF pulses. Here, we propose new strategies for improved 3D STFR imaging, based on (i) unspoiled imaging, and (ii) joint design of nonslice‐selective tip‐down/tip‐up RF pulses.

Theory and Methods

We derive an analytic signal model for the proposed unspoiled STFR sequence, and propose two strategies for designing the 3D tailored tip‐down/tip‐up RF pulses. We validate the analytic results using phantom and in vivo imaging experiments.

Results

Our analytic model and imaging experiments demonstrate that the proposed unspoiled STFR sequence is less sensitive to tip‐up excitation error compared to the corresponding spoiled sequence, and may, therefore, be an attractive candidate for 3D imaging. The proposed “joint” RF pulse design method, in which we formulate the tip‐down/tip‐up RF pulse design task as a magnitude least squares problem, produces modest improvement over a simpler “Separate” design approach. Using the proposed unspoiled sequence and joint RF pulse design, we demonstrate proof‐of‐principle 3D STFR brain images with balanced steady‐state free precession‐like signal properties but with reduced banding.

Conclusion

Using the proposed unspoiled sequence and joint RF pulse design, STFR brain images in a 3D region of interest with balanced steady‐state free precession‐like signal properties but with reduced banding can be obtained. Magn Reson Med 72:389–398, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Urologists' referral attitude for sacral neuromodulation for treating refractory idiopathic overactive bladder syndrome: Discrete choice experiment
Authors: Kessler Thomas M. , Maric Angelina , Mordasini Livio , Wöllner Jens , Pannek Jürgen , Mehnert Ulrich , van Kerrebroeck Philip E. , Bachmann Lucas M.
Published: October 2013

Aims

To investigate urologists' referral attitude for sacral neuromodulation (SNM) for treating refractory idiopathic overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) and to quantify the weight they attribute to clinical parameters to refrain from SNM referral.

Methods

We set up a vignette study using a discrete‐choice design. The questionnaires were distributed at two national urological meetings.

Results

One hundred eight urologists completed the questionnaire. Three parameters were significantly associated with the decision to refrain from referral: absolute contraindications for SNM (anatomical low bladder compliance, current urinary tract infection, progressive neurological disease, urinary tumors) had the strongest association (0.78, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.97; P < 0.001), followed by cardiac pacemaker (0.24, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.39; P = 0.003), and diabetes mellitus (0.19, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.32; P = 0.006). On the other hand, urologists considered fecal incontinence as an important parameter for referral (−0.16, 95% CI −0.29 to −0.04; P = 0.011). Current medication with antimuscarinics and polyuria played no role in the decision. Results in a subgroup of 24 neuro‐urologists/functional urologists were similar but non‐critical parameters were not associated with the decision to refrain from SNM referral.

Conclusions

Besides absolute contraindications, other non‐critical parameters such as cardiac pacemaker or diabetes mellitus influence urologists' decision to refrain from referral for SNM. We believe that the use of decision tools will help urologists identifying patients benefiting from SNM and therefore we call for broad dissemination of such tools into clinical practice. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1240–1246, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enriched isogeometric analysis of elliptic boundary value problems in domains with cracks and/or corners
Authors: Oh Hae‐Soo , Kim Hyunju , Jeong Jae Woo
Published: October 2013

The mapping method was introduced in Jeong et al. (2013) for highly accurate isogeometric analysis (IGA) of elliptic boundary value problems containing singularities. The mapping method is concerned with constructions of novel geometrical mappings by which push‐forwards of B‐splines from the parameter space into the physical space generate singular functions that resemble the singularities. In other words, the pullback of the singularity into the parameter space by the novel geometrical mapping (a non‐uniform rational basis spline (NURBS) surface mapping) becomes highly smooth. One of the merits of IGA is that it uses NURBS functions employed in designs for the finite element analysis. However, push‐forwards of rational NURBS may not be able to generate singular functions. Moreover, the mapping method is effective for neither the k‐refinement nor the h‐refinement. In this paper, highly accurate stress analysis of elastic domains with cracks and ∕ or corners are achieved by enriched IGA, in which push‐forwards of NURBS via the design mapping are combined with push‐forwards of B‐splines via the novel geometrical mapping (the mapping technique). In a similar spirit of X‐FEM (or GFEM), we propose three enrichment approaches: enriched IGA for corners, enriched IGA for cracks, and partition of unity IGA for cracks. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Existence and stability analysis of optimal control
Authors: Yu Jian , Liu Zi‐Xin , Peng Ding‐Tao , Xu Dao‐Yun , Zhou Yong‐Hui
Published: October 2013

By constructing a complete metric space and a compact set of admissible control functions, this paper investigates the existence and stability of solutions of optimal control problems with respect to the right‐hand side functions. On the basis of set‐valued mapping theory, by introducing the notion of essential solutions for optimal control problems, some sufficient and necessary criteria guaranteeing the existence and stability of solutions are established. New derived criteria show that the optimal control problems whose solutions are all essential form a dense residual set, and so every optimal control problem can be closely approximated arbitrarily by an essential optimal control problem. The example shows that not all optimal control problems are stable. However, our main result shows that, in the sense of Baire category, most of the optimal control problems are stable. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymptomatic prostatic abscess: a cause of staphylococcal bacteraemia in uncontrolled diabetes
Authors: Hunt L , Vinayagam R , Gopalan P , Bains A , Scott AR
Published: October 2013

Prostatic abscess is a rare and difficult condition to diagnose. Here we report two cases of type 2 diabetic patients with similar presenting features. Both had uncontrolled diabetes mellitus on admission and grew Staphylococcus aureus from blood cultures and aspirates. Diagnosis was made following computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Treatment was with intravenous antibiotics and no surgical intervention was required. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons.
CSII experience among higher specialist trainees: a Young Diabetologists and Endocrinologists Forum survey
Authors: Grant Paul , Cheer Kelly , Herring Roselle , Chakera Ali Jason , Brooks Augustin , Little Stuart , Wilmot Emma
Published: October 2013

Experience of the management of patients with type 1 diabetes treated with insulin pumps tends to vary significantly among clinicians in training.

The Young Diabetologists and Endocrinologists Forum (YDEF), a body representing diabetes registrars, undertook a web‐based survey of doctors to assess their familiarity, confidence and experience in dealing with the various aspects of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) given its relative technical complexity and lack of formal training.

A total of 101 trainees (24%) responded to this survey. One‐third of trainees (38%) had no formal CSII training. Of the 62% of trainees who had had some form of training, including attendance on an insulin pump course, only 45% were able to set up and prime an insulin pump; 55% and 67% of trainees were able to set up basal and bolus insulin doses respectively, and 77% understood the insulin pump sick day rules. Individual trainee experience with pump starts varied between zero and 14 patients with an average of two per trainee, which is arguably inadequate.

We conclude that the provision of CSII training varies considerably in the UK; training opportunities and exposure to pump therapy in practice vary greatly, which reflects a lack of formal detail or consideration of this in the UK curriculum. We propose a basic set of pump training competencies which diabetes registrars should be expected to work towards and fulfil prior to the completion of training. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons.
Personality and Serum Lipids: Does Lifestyle Account for Their Concurrent and Long–Term Relationships
Authors: Armon Galit
Published: October 2013

This study evaluates concurrent and over time associations of personality with measures of three serum lipids associated coronary heart disease morbidity, namely, high–density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL–C), low–density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride (TRI). Participants were individuals who underwent a health examination at two points of time, T1 (N = 3835) and T2 (N = 2283), about 2.5 years apart. Personality was assessed by the Five–Factor Model. Health, socioeconomic status and healthy lifestyle behaviours (smoking intensity, physical activity and body weight) were controlled. Regression analyses indicate that the personality factors of neuroticism, extraversion and conscientiousness are each significantly associated with HDL–C and TRI, both concurrently and over time. However, most of these associations decreased to marginal significance when adjusted for body weight or physical activity as possible mediators. Both concurrent and over time associations of the openness personality trait with HDL–C and TRI were significant and persisted after adjustment for measures of a healthy lifestyle. This study emphasizes the importance of collecting measures of a healthy lifestyle to better understand how personality might influence serum lipids. Copyright © 2013 European Association of Personality Psychology
Cholinesterase Inhibitors and Pisa Syndrome: A Pharmacovigilance Study
Authors: Zannas Anthony S. , Okuno Yasushi , Doraiswamy P. Murali
Published: October 2013

Study Objectives

Case reports suggest a relationship between cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) and Pisa syndrome (PS), also known as pleurothotonus, a form of dystonia, but this relationship has not been systematically examined. Our objective was to estimate the adjusted reporting ratios of PS with donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine in the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database.

Design

Retrospective analysis of adverse event reports in the FAERS database.

Patients

Patients with drug‐related adverse events in the FAERS database.

Measurements and Main Results

The Gamma Poisson Shrinker algorithm was used to estimate the empirical Bayes geometric mean (EBGM) along with the lower and upper 90% confidence interval (CI) limits (EB05 and EB95, respectively), as measures of the adjusted reporting ratio of PS in patients taking ChEIs. EB05 > 2.0 was used as the cutoff for significance for the signals. The EBGM (EB05) was 37.9 (30) for all ChEIs, 25.6 (17.6) for donepezil, 76.4 (50.3) for galantamine, and 33.7 (21.2) for rivastigmine. All adverse event signals were strongly significant based on the a priori set EB05 cutoff. The female:male ratio in the reported cases was 2:1. No significant signals were found between ChEIs and other dystonias. About half of the ChEI users were also taking concomitant antipsychotics.

Conclusion

Although FAERS data cannot establish causality due to reporting biases, our findings support a potential dopaminergic‐cholinergic imbalance as an underlying mechanism for PS and may help increase clinician awareness, early identification, and treatment of ChEI‐related dystonias.
Conformational development of polylactide films induced by uniaxial drawing
Authors: Oh Mi Ok , Kim Seong Hun
Published: October 2013

Uniaxially drawn polylactide (PLA) films were prepared using various draw ratios (2, 3, 4 and 4.5) at a constant draw rate and temperature. It was confirmed that the conformational structure of the PLA films prepared using the uniaxial drawing process was composed of the α′‐phase form. The conformational structure deformation of α′‐phase PLA films, according to the various draw ratios used, was investigated in terms of strain‐induced crystalline behavior and molecular orientation analysis. It is of utmost importance to confirm the α′‐phase structural deformation caused by the uniaxial drawing process because it directly relates to the characteristics of PLA films. The conformational structure deformations of the α′‐phase, created by uniaxial drawing, led to improved mechanical properties, as evident from mechanical testing and dynamic mechanical analyses results. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Pd–phosphinesulfonate bravely battles the “vinyl halide insertion copolymerization” barricade
Authors: Gaikwad Shahaji , Deshmukh Satej , Chikkali Samir H.
Published: October 2013

This overview provides insights into the current state‐of‐the‐art solutions to insertion copolymerization of functional olefinic monomers. The challenges in insertion copolymerization of functional olefinic monomers, with a special emphasis on vinyl halides, are highlighted. The crucial design of the Pd–phosphinesulfonate [Pd(PO)] enables up to 3.6 mol % incorporation of vinyl fluoride (VF) in an ethylene–VF copolymerization reaction. In a significant development, insertion copolymerization of industrially relevant functional olefin, that is, vinyl chloride (VC), was unambiguously ascertained, and a detectable amount of VC (0.4 mol %) was incorporated (at the chain end). In a detailed investigation, the in situ existence of (PO)PdH species during the polymerization was revealed, and it was demonstrated that these are indeed responsible for VC incorporation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1–6