bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
QCT Volumetric Bone Mineral Density and Vascular and Valvular Calcification: The Framingham Study
Authors: Chan Jimmy J , Cupples L Adrienne , Kiel Douglas P , O'Donnell Christopher J , Hoffmann Udo , Samelson Elizabeth J
Published: April 2015

There is increasing evidence that bone and vascular calcification share common pathogenesis. Little is known about potential links between bone and valvular calcification. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between spine bone mineral density (BMD) and vascular and valvular calcification. Participants included 1317 participants (689 women, 628 men) in the Framingham Offspring Study (mean age 60 years). Integral, trabecular, and cortical volumetric bone density (vBMD) and arterial and valvular calcification were measured from computed tomography (CT) scans and categorized by sex-specific quartiles (Q4 = high vBMD). Calcification of the coronary arteries (CAC), abdominal aorta (AAC), aortic valve (AVC), and mitral valve (MVC) were quantified using the Agatston Score (AS). Prevalence of any calcium (AS >0) was 69% for CAC, 81% for AAC, 39% for AVC, and 20% for MVC. In women, CAC increased with decreasing quartile of trabecular vBMD: adjusted mean CAC = 2.1 (Q4), 2.2 (Q3), 2.5 (Q2), 2.6 (Q1); trend p = 0.04. However, there was no inverse trend between CAC and trabecular vBMD in men: CAC = 4.3 (Q4), 4.3 (Q3), 4.2 (Q2), 4.3 (Q1); trend p = 0.92. AAC increased with decreasing quartile of trabecular vBMD in both women (AAC = 4.5 [Q4], 4.8 [Q3], 5.4 [Q2], 5.1 [Q1]; trend p = 0.01) and men (AAC = 5.5 [Q4], 5.8 [Q3], 5.9 [Q2], 6.2 [Q1]; trend p = 0.01). We observed no association between trabecular vBMD and AVC or MVC in women or men. Finally, cortical vBMD was unrelated to vascular calcification and valvular calcification in women and men. Women and men with low spine vBMD have greater severity of vascular calcification, particularly at the abdominal aorta. The inverse relation between AAC and spine vBMD in women and men may be attributable to shared etiology and may be an important link on which to focus treatment efforts that can target individuals at high risk of both fracture and cardiovascular events. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Reproducibility of Serum Potassium Values in Serum From Blood Samples Stored for Increasing Times Prior to Centrifugation and Analysis
Authors: Harper Aaron , Lu Chuanyong , Sun Yi , Garcia Rafael , Rets Anton , Alexis Herol , Saad Heba , Eid Ikram , Harris Loretta , Marshall Barbara , Tafani Edlira , Pincus Matthew R.
Published: April 2015

Goals

The goal of this work was to determine if immediate versus postponed centrifugation of samples affects the levels of serum potassium.

Methods

Twenty participants donated normal venous blood that was collected in four serum separator tubes per donor, each of which was analyzed at 0, 1, 2, or 4 hr on the Siemens Advia 1800 autoanalyzer.

Results

Coefficients of variation (CVs) for potassium levels ranged from 0% to 7.6% with a mean of 3 ± 2%. ANOVA testing of the means for all 20 samples showed a P‐value of 0.72 (>0.05) indicating that there was no statistically significant difference between the means of the samples at the four time points. Sixteen samples were found to have CVs that were ≤5%. Two samples showed increases of potassium from the reference range to levels higher than the upper reference limit, one of which had a 4‐hr value that was within the reference or normal range (3.5–5 mEq/l). Overall, most samples were found to have reproducible levels of serum potassium.

Conclusions

Serum potassium levels from stored whole blood collected in serum separator tubes are, for the most part, stable at room temperature for at least 4 hr prior to analysis. However, some samples can exhibit significant fluctuations of values.
A Pilot Study of Maudsley Family Therapy With Group Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Training in an Intensive Outpatient Program for Adolescent Eating Disorders
Authors: Johnston Jennifer A. Y. , O'Gara Jesine S. X. , Koman Stuart L. , Baker Christina Wood , Anderson Drew A.
Published: April 2015

Objective

The goal of this study was to provide pilot clinical data on the effectiveness of an intensive outpatient treatment model for adolescent eating disorders that combines Maudsley‐based family therapy and group dialectical behavior therapy skills training.

Method

Measures of physical and psychological status were gathered upon admission, discharge, and at 3 follow‐up intervals.

Results

Adolescents who completed the program gained a significant amount of weight and experienced a significant decrease in eating disorder psychopathology. At the 1‐year follow‐up, 64% of adolescents were weight restored and menstruating normally. Measures of eating disorder psychopathology continued to improve up to a year after treatment.

Conclusions

This pilot, multimodal program warrants further investigation and may be an effective intermediate level of care treatment option for adolescent eating disorders.
NATURAL MENTORING IN THE LIVES OF SEXUAL MINORITY YOUTH
Authors: Johnson Dominique , Gastic Billie
Published: April 2015

This retrospective, mixed method study examined the natural mentoring experiences of a national sample of lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Sexual minority youth were found to be less likely than heterosexual youth to have family members as mentors, but more likely to be mentored by school adults. A paradox was noted wherein sexual minority youth, while more likely to be mentored, miss out on the cumulative benefit of mentoring since they meet their mentors almost a year later than heterosexual youth. Findings also suggest that the prevailing same‐sex pairing of mentors and mentees in formal mentoring programs warrants re‐examination for sexual minority youth, as male sexual minority youth were found to be more likely to have female natural mentors than heterosexual male youth. Implications for mentoring programs with a particular focus on positive youth development for sexual minority youth were also discussed.
RACIAL DISCRIMINATION AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG CAMBODIAN AMERICAN ADOLESCENTS: THE ROLE OF GENDER
Authors: Sangalang Cindy C. , Gee Gilbert C.
Published: April 2015

Despite the considerable growth of research examining discrimination's contribution to adolescent development and well‐being, relatively few studies to date have explored gendered patterns in the experience and effect of discrimination among youth. Applying intersectionality as a guiding theoretical framework, this study investigates gender differences in the reporting of racial discrimination and its relation with depressive symptoms. Data come from a survey of Cambodian American adolescents between 13 and 19 years of age (n = 466). Discrimination was considered across the domains of school and peers, from police, and overall. Results indicated that males were more likely than females to report racial discrimination overall and across specific contexts. Racial discrimination overall as well as discrimination from police and peers were related to increased depressive symptoms. However, although males reported more discrimination from police than females, the association between police discrimination and depressive symptoms was stronger among females than males.
HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS of brain neurotransmitter modulator lobeline and related piperidine alkaloids in Lobelia inflata L
Authors: Kursinszki László , Szőke Éva
Published: April 2015

There is a renewed interest in lobelia alkaloids because of their activity on the central nervous system. Lobeline, the most active of them, a nicotinic receptor ligand and neurotransmitter transporter inhibitor, is a candidate pharmacotherapy for metamphetamine abuse. In the present work, high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry in positive ion mode was used for investigating the alkaloid profile in Lobelia inflata L. Chromatographic separations were achieved on a Gemini C6‐phenyl reversed‐phase column providing good peak shape and improved selectivity. Being mostly 2,6‐disubstituted piperidines, lobelia alkaloids presented abundant [M + H]+ ions with typical fragmentation. Identification was possible from a few specific ions, especially those resulting from excision of one of the substituents.

Based on fragmentation pattern of lobeline as reference compound, 52 alkaloids were identified in the aqueous methanolic extract of L. inflata in contrast to the previously known some 20. Structural variability of these alkaloids identified arises basically from their substituents which can be phenyl‐2‐ketoethyl‐ or phenyl‐2‐hydroxyethyl units as well as their methyl‐, ethyl‐ or propyl‐ homologues attached in different combinations. Several propyl homologue lobelia alkaloids and five hydroxypiperidine derivatives were found in the plant at the first time. In addition to 8‐O‐esters of 2‐monosubstituted piperidine alkaloids previously reported by us in L. inflata, a 3‐hydroxy‐3‐phenylpropanoic acid ester of hydroxyallosedamine ring‐substituted was also identified as a new natural product. High‐performance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry can be successfully applied to Lobeliacae plant samples in the routine screening for new and known bioactive constituents, quality control of the crude drug, lobelia herba, alkaloid production studies, breeding and chemotaxonomy. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phosphatase activity and its relationship with physical and chemical parameters during vermicomposting of filter cake and cattle manure
Authors: Busato Jader Galba , Papa Gabriella , Canellas Luciano Pasqualoto , Adani Fabrizio , de Oliveira Aline Lima , Leão Tairone Paiva
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Recycling of phosphorus (P) from organic residues (ORs) is important to develop environmentally friendly agriculture. The use of this P source depends on phosphatase enzymes, which can be affected by a chain of parameters during maturation of ORs. In this study the phosphatase activity levels throughout vermicomposting of filter cake (FC) and cattle manure (CM) were correlated with different physical and chemical parameters in an effort to increase the knowledge about recycling of P from ORs.

RESULTS

FC presented higher total nitrogen content (TNC), total organic carbon (TOC), humic acid (HA) content, water‐soluble P (WSP), phosphatase activities and nanopore volume than CM during vermicomposting. Decreases in TOC of CM resulted from carbohydrate mineralization, which was not observed for FC. CM showed increased hydrophobic index during vermicomposting while FC showed a slight decrease.

CONCLUSION

Phosphatase activities correlated positively with TOC, pH and WSP and negatively with HA content for both vermicomposts. Nanopore volume was negatively correlated with phosphatase activities for FC but not for CM. No correlations between hydrophobicity and phosphatase activities were found for FC. Increased hydrophobicity throughout vermicomposting of CM could be partially associated with decreases in phosphatase levels. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Multistimuli‐Responsive Luminescence of Naphthalazine Based on Aggregation‐Induced Emission
Authors: Yao Xiang , Ru Jia‐Xi , Xu Cong , Liu Ya‐Ming , Dou Wei , Tang Xiao‐Liang , Zhang Guo‐Lin , Liu Wei‐Sheng
Published: April 2015

Stimuli‐responsive luminescent materials, which are dependent on changes in physical molecular packing modes, have attracted more and more interest over the past ten years. In this study, 2,2‐dihydroxy‐1,1‐naphthalazine was synthesized and shown to exhibit different fluorescence emission in solution and solid states with characteristic aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) properties. A remarkable change in the fluorescence of 2,2‐dihydroxy‐1,1‐naphthalazine occurred upon mechanical grinding, heating, or exposure to solvents. According to the characterization by solid‐state fluorescence spectroscopy, X‐ray crystallography, differential scanning calorimetry, and X‐ray powder diffraction, the fluorescence change could be attributed to transitions between two structurally different polymorphs. These significant properties could also give 2,2‐dihydroxy‐1,1‐naphthalazine more potential applications as a multifunctional material.
New Imaging Techniques on the RISE
Authors: Hollricher Olaf , Schmidt Ute , Breuninger Sonja
Published: April 2015

The implementation of correlative microscopy techniques for materials and surface analysis has grown steadily in recent years. This trend is being driven by the increasing demands placed on analytical methods for detailed and comprehensive sample investigations. WITec's Raman Imaging and Scanning Electron (RISE) microscope is the latest advance in this field.
Count on Your Images
Authors: Briggs Stephan , McCall Brian
Published: April 2015

The history of microscopy is the story of the quest to obtain ever more reliable information about a world that is invisible to the naked eye. The development of stains introduced the ability to distinguish distinct cells, then distinct cellular organelles; the design of optically corrected multi‐element objectives enhanced the fidelity of microscopic imaging; the introduction of phase contrast microscopy enhanced the ability to isolate different features in a sample. Fluorescence microscopy is one approach — almost inarguably the most promising and the most valuable — to extending the quality of information available from an image.
Exploring the Micro, Nano and Quantum World
Authors: Neuhaus Rudolf , Paasch‐Colberg Tim
Published: April 2015

The continuously tunable laser CTL enables mode‐hop‐free wavelength tuning up to 100 nm with narrow line‐width and highest accuracy. It will improve measurements on small structures and in the quantum regime that rely on mode‐hop‐free laser operation.
Rapid Microstructure Analysis of Polar Ice Cores
Authors: Krischke Anja , Oechsner Ulrich , Kipfstuhl Sepp
Published: April 2015

With climate change and its implications for society and the Earth being a frequent topic in both politics and science, measureable data on the influence of mankind on current and past climate has become essential information for making predictions and decisions about future climate. The polar ice sheet provides information about temperature, precipitation as well as gas and aerosol concentration as a unique depiction of climate throughout hundreds of thousands of years. The information obtained from ice cores enables future climatic events as well as general material properties of ice to be better understood. The longest ice core drilled in Antarctica has a length of 3270 m and contains climate information dating back more than 800,000 years. The rapid analysis (minimum scan time 3 s) provided by the large area scan macroscope (LASM; Fig. 1) with a resolution of 5 μm has proven to be an essential tool for analyzing the microstructures of ice cores, both in the field and in the laboratory. A stratigraphic image that supports dating the ice cores can be obtained using Intermediate Layer Core Scanner.
Skin‐core debonding in resin‐infused sandwich structures
Authors: Jishi Hassan Z. , Umer Rehan , Cantwell Wesley J.
Published: April 2015

Techniques for enhancing the interfacial fracture properties of foam‐based sandwich structures are investigated. Prior to manufacture, holes were drilled into a PET foam core in order to facilitate resin flow during the subsequent resin‐infusion process. Glass fibers were then inserted into the perforations in an attempt to increase the interfacial fracture toughness of the sandwich structure. The results from these tests are compared to data generated from similar tests on a plain PET core, as well as on samples in which no fiber reinforcement was incorporated into the vertical holes. The inclusion of fibers in the through‐thickness holes served to increase the skin‐core interfacial fracture toughness of the sandwich structures. Here, it was noted the highest values of fracture toughness were more than three times the value measured on the plain foam system. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:2974–2981, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Thermomechanical characteristics of basalt hybrid and nonhybrid woven fabric–reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Jamshaid Hafsa , Mishra Rajesh
Published: April 2015

In this study, experimental investigations are performed to check the thermal and mechanical behavior of woven Basalt/PP and Basalt/Jute fiber hybrid and nonhybrid woven fabrics and their composite laminates with epoxy. Three types of weaves are used for both hybrid and nonhybrid structures. Tensile testing of all the woven fabrics is performed. The thermal properties of the fabrics, that is, thermal resistance, diffusivity, and thermal conductivity, etc. are also studied vis‐a‐vis physiological behavior. Results are discussed in terms of fiber composition, woven geometry, and the fiber : resin ratio. Fabricated composite samples are subjected to dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). The thermophysiological properties are also studied in reference to yarn and fabric structure. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:2982–2994, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Determination of triglycidyl isocyanurate from air samples by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with coordination ion spray mass spectrometry
Authors: Gagné Sébastien , Carrier Marielle , Aubin Simon
Published: April 2015

Rationale

Ultra‐performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled with coordination ion spray tandem mass spectrometry was used for the analysis of air samples containing triglycidyl isocyanurate. The method is not affected by any chromatographic interference and the filter extract is compatible with the UPLC system, as opposed to approaches using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultraviolet detection and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.

Methods

Accu‐cap™ filters that had sampled triglycidyl isocyanurate were extracted using a mixture of acetonitrile/acetone (95/5) diluted with 3 volumes of water and were then analyzed. The mass spectrometry method uses sodium as the alkali adduct complexing with the triglycidyl isocyanurate in positive mode, and this complex is then analyzed using the survivor mode where the same ion is monitored in the first and third quadrupoles of a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer.

Results

The method has a limit of detection and limit of quantitation of 50 and 170 ng/filter, respectively. The dynamic range was between 480 and 24,000 ng/sample, which is equivalent to 2 µg/m3 and 100 µg/m3 based on a sampling volume of 240 L. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions were both <4% and the overall accuracy was 97 ± 3%. The method was tested with personal breathing zone random samples collected from workers using triglycidyl isocyanurate in their tasks, and all the random samples were easily quantified.

Conclusions

A new method by UPLC coupled with coordination ion spray tandem mass spectrometry using sodium as the alkali adduct is now available for industrial hygienists who want to evaluate exposures of workers to triglycidyl isocyanurate in workplaces. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantifying non‐covalent binding affinity using mass spectrometry: A systematic study on complexes of cyclodextrins with alkali metal cations
Authors: Wei Wanghui , Chu Yanqiu , Wang Rizhi , He Xiaodan , Ding Chuanfan
Published: April 2015

Rationale

To date, the quantification of binding affinities for non‐covalent complexes between cyclodextrin (CD) and alkali cations including Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+ has not been investigated in detail by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) due to the unknown ionization efficiencies of the different species. In this study, the binding constants of CD‐Cs+ complexes were determined by an improved mass spectrometric titration methodology, which was based only on the peak intensities of equilibrium CD. Hence, the discrepancy of ionization efficiencies of CD, alkaline cation and their complex would not affect the measurement. Then the obtained lgKa values were provided as references for competitive ESI‐MS. The binding constants for complexes of α‐, β‐ or γ‐CD with Li+, Na+, K+ and Rb+ could be derived directly and quickly.

Methods

The lgKa values between α‐, β‐ or γ‐CD and Cs+ data were processed by curve fitting. These lgKa values were provided as references for competitive ESI‐MS. In addition, linear fit equations for complexes of α‐, β‐ or γ‐CD with Cs+ were derived. Through the linear fit equations of competitive ESI‐MS, the binding constants for complexes of Li+, Na+, K+ and Rb+ with α‐, β‐ or γ‐CD were acquired.

Results

Results showed that the binding constant (lgKa) values for the complexes of Cs+ with α‐, β‐ and γ‐cyclodextrins were 3.94, 3.88 and 3.80, respectively, revealing that the binding strength decreased with the increase in diameter of cyclodextrins. The competitive ESI‐MS results showed a clear trend of decreasing affinity for complexes of cyclodextrins in the order of Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+.

Conclusions

The binding constants of non‐covalent cyclodextrin‐alkali cation complexes have been systematically studied by an improved mass spectrometric titration and competitive ESI‐MS. Also, the structural features of the complexes were discussed. Our results are valuable for better understanding of mechanisms driving inclusion chemistry under well‐defined conditions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of interglycosidic linkages in O‐glycosyl flavones by high‐performance liquid chromatography/photodiode‐array detection coupled to electrospray ionization ion trap mass spectrometry. Its application to Tetragonula carbonaria honey from Australia
Authors: Truchado Pilar , Vit Patricia , Heard Tim A. , Tomás‐Barberán Francisco A. , Ferreres Federico
Published: April 2015

Rationale

Tetragonula carbonaria pot‐honeys are highly valued as a food source and for their biological activities in Australia, and there is a growing interest to know its composition. Phenolic metabolites, which could be related to their beneficial properties, have not been studied in depth yet.

Methods

Mass spectrometry (MS) coupled to liquid chromatography (LC) is an advanced technique for the study of complex flavonoids present in difficult food matrices that hampers their isolation and purification. This allows the tentative characterization of diglycosides/triglycosides establishing the position of the O‐glycosylation on the sugar moiety by the study of the MS data in T. carbonaria pot‐honeys from Australia.

Results

Their spectra obtained by high‐performance liquid chromatography/photodiode‐array detection/electrospray ionization ion trap mass spectrometry (HPLC/DAD/ESI‐MSn) revealed for the first time 19 quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin O‐glycosides. These compounds were clustered in flavonoid triglycosides, diglycosides and monoglycosides. The first cluster contained one flavonoid trihexoside, two −3‐O‐(2‐hexosyl, 6‐rhamnosyl)hexosides and their isomers and two −3‐O‐(2,6‐di‐rhamnosyl)hexosides. In the second cluster, eleven flavonoid diglycosides such as three −3‐O‐(2‐hexosyl)hexosides, four −3‐O‐(2‐rhamnosyl)hexosides and one −3‐O‐(6‐rhamnosyl)hexoside as well as two −3‐O‐(2‐pentosyl)hexosides and one tentative −3‐O‐(3‐pentosyl)hexoside were detected. In the monoglycoside group, only one flavonoid −3‐O‐hexoside was identified.

Conclusions

The occurrence of this large number of flavonoid glycosides could be due to the low glucosidase activity previously reported in stingless bee honey. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification and relative quantification of phosphopeptides by a combination of multi‐protease digestion and isobaric labeling
Authors: Linke Dennis , Koudelka Tomas , Becker Alexander , Tholey Andreas
Published: April 2015

Rationale

The identification and the determination of the extent of protein phosphorylation are major prerequisites for the comparative analysis of this important posttranslational modification of proteins in different biological situations. High sequence coverages and the availability of straightforward quantification methods are necessary to achieve these goals.

Methods

Phosphoproteins and non‐phosphorylated analogues separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) were digested using four different proteases (trypsin, chymotrypsin, elastase and GluC) and the digests were isobarically labeled using eight‐plex iTRAQ. The combined labeled digests were subsequently enriched using titanium dioxide and both the phosphorylated and non‐phosphorylated fractions were analyzed by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS). The influence of different data analysis algorithms (Percolator or False Discovery Rate) on the outcome of analysis was investigated.

Results

Almost complete sequence coverage could be achieved upon application of a multi‐protease approach. The formation of peptides of different lengths and physicochemical properties allowed the identification and the mapping of all phosphorylation sites in the investigated model proteins. The introduction of isobaric labels allowed quantification of different peptides of the same phosphorylation site with more than one peptide, leading to significantly improved statistical confidence.

Conclusions

A workflow for the straightforward comparative analysis of protein phosphorylation in samples of low complexity, e.g. isolated proteins, was developed. The workflow is transferable to other posttranslational modifications. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective reduction in complicated monochorionic twins: prediction of obstetric outcome and comparison of techniques
Authors: Yinon Y. , Ashwal E. , Weisz B. , Chayen B. , Schiff E. , Lipitz S.
Published: April 2015

Objectives

To compare the outcomes of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and bipolar cord coagulation (BPC) methods for selective feticide in complicated monochorionic (MC) twin gestations and to determine risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcome.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of all patients with complicated MC twin pregnancy who underwent selective reduction in a single tertiary care center between 2000 and 2014. We compared the two methods with respect to various demographic, obstetric and perinatal outcome variables.

Results

Fifty‐three selective terminations in complicated MC twin gestations were performed, 36 by RFA and 17 by BPC. Each technique resulted in a similar overall survival rate of the remaining twin (88.9% vs 76.5%, P = 0.25). Likewise, the mean procedure‐to‐delivery interval, the rate of spontaneous preterm delivery < 37, < 34, < 32 and < 28 weeks and the rate of preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes did not differ between the groups. However, among patients in the BPC group, there was a trend towards earlier gestational age at delivery (31.3 vs 35.0 weeks, P = 0.09) compared with in the RFA group. There was selective reduction by RFA due to selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR) in 19 cases, 17 (89.5%) of which survived perinatally, with delivery at a median gestational age of 37 weeks. There were no significant differences in perinatal outcome, irrespective of whether the procedure was performed pre‐ or post‐viability. All post‐viability reductions, most of which were by RFA, resulted in perinatal survival.

Conclusions

Perinatal outcome of complicated MC twin gestations undergoing selective feticide seems to be similar regardless of whether termination is by BPC or RFA. Nevertheless, RFA appears to be particularly useful in MC twins complicated by sIUGR and in cases requiring selective reduction beyond the age of viability. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Efficient production and evaluation of lignocellulolytic enzymes using a constitutive protein expression system in Penicillium oxalicum
Authors: Hu Yibo , Xue Haizhao , Liu Guodong , Song Xin , Qu Yinbo
Published: April 2015

Native lignocellulolytic enzyme systems secreted by filamentous fungi can be further optimized by protein engineering or supplementation of exogenous enzyme components. We developed a protein production and evaluation system in cellulase-producing fungus Penicillium oxalicum. First, by deleting the major amylase gene amy15A, a strain Δ15A producing few extracellular proteins on starch was constructed. Then, three lignocellulolytic enzymes (BGL4, Xyn10B, and Cel12A) with originally low expression levels were successfully expressed with selected constitutive promoters in strain Δ15A. BGL4 and Cel12A overexpression resulted in increased specific filter paper activity (FPA), while the overexpression of Xyn10B improved volumetric FPA but not specific FPA. By switching the culture medium, this platform is convenient to produce originally low-expressed lignocellulolytic enzymes in relatively high purities on starch and to evaluate the effect of their supplementation on the performance of a complex cellulase system on cellulose.
Clinical, morphological, biochemical, imaging and outcome parameters in 21 individuals with mitochondrial maintenance defect related to FBXL4 mutations
Authors: Huemer Martina , Karall Daniela , Schossig Anna , Abdenur Jose E. , Al Jasmi Fatma , Biagosch Caroline , Distelmaier Felix , Freisinger Peter , Graham Brett H. , Haack Tobias B. , Hauser Natalie , Hertecant Jozef , Ebrahimi‐Fakhari Darius , Konstantopoulou Vassiliki , Leydiker Karen , Lourenco Charles M. , Scholl‐Bürgi Sabine , Wilichowski Ekkehard , Wolf Nicole I. , Wortmann Saskia B. , Taylor Robert W. , Mayr Johannes A. , Bonnen Penelope E. , Sperl Wolfgang , Prokisch Holger , McFarland Robert
Published: April 2015

FBXL4 deficiency is a recently described disorder of mitochondrial maintenance associated with a loss of mitochondrial DNA in cells. To date, the genetic diagnosis of FBXL4 deficiency has been established in 28 individuals. This paper retrospectively reviews proxy‐reported clinical and biochemical findings and evaluates brain imaging, morphological and genetic data in 21 of those patients. Neonatal/early‐onset severe lactic acidosis, muscular hypotonia, feeding problems and failure to thrive is the characteristic pattern at first presentation. Facial dysmorphic features are present in 67 % of cases. Seven children died (mean age 37 months); 11 children were alive (mean age at follow‐up 46 months), three children were lost to follow‐up. All survivors developed severe psychomotor retardation. Brain imaging was non‐specific in neonates but a later‐onset, rapidly progressive brain atrophy was noted. Elevated blood lactate and metabolic acidosis were observed in all individuals; creatine kinase was elevated in 45 % of measurements. Diagnostic workup in patient tissues and cells revealed a severe combined respiratory chain defect with a general decrease of enzymes associated with mitochondrial energy metabolism and a relative depletion of mitochondrial DNA content. Mutations were detected throughout the FBXL4 gene albeit with no clear delineation of a genotype‐phenotype correlation. Treatment with “mitochondrial medications” did not prove effective. In conclusion, a clinical pattern of early‐onset encephalopathy, persistent lactic acidosis, profound muscular hypotonia and typical facial dysmorphism should prompt initiation of molecular genetic analysis of FBXL4. Establishment of the diagnosis permits genetic counselling, prevents patients undergoing unhelpful diagnostic procedures and allows for accurate prognosis.
‘From scared to prepared’: targeted structured induction training during the transition from medical school to foundation doctor
Authors: Blencowe Natalie S. , Van Hamel Clare , Bethune Rob , Aspinall Rebecca
Published: April 2015

The risks to patients at August handover time are well known, yet there is no national consensus on the best way to deliver induction programmes for Foundation Year One (F1). The aim of this study was to design, deliver and assess a targeted structured induction programme for new F1 doctors. The induction training programme was designed using educational models of topic analysis informed by results of a survey of F1s and medical students, and the F1 curriculum. Data regarding serious untoward incidents and self-reported preparedness were collected between 2008 and 2010, and rates were compared between those receiving optional (2008) and compulsory (2009 and 2010) training. By delivering targeted education and spending time with the outgoing F1 doctors, 97 % of our new doctors felt adequately prepared for practice. The incidence of self-reported mistakes made by F1s in the first 4 months of their practice fell by 45 % and serious untoward incidents also decreased. Targeted structured induction training addresses final-year medical students’ concerns about their preparedness for practice as junior doctors, and improves patient safety. This study supports the General Medical Council recommendation that targeted structured induction training should be mandatory for all new doctors.
Coved‐type ST‐elevation during ablation of ischemic ventricular tachycardia
Authors: Hori Yuichi , Nakahara Shiro , Tsukada Naofumi , Nakagawa Ayako , Hayashi Akiko , Komatsu Takaaki , Kobayashi Sayuki , Sakai Yoshihiko , Taguchi Isao
Published: April 2015

A coved‐type electrocardiogram (ECG) change in Brugada syndrome is suggested to be the result of abnormally delayed depolarization over the right ventricular outflow tract; however, ischemia of the conus branch of the right coronary artery presents the same ECG change. A 63‐year‐old man with a history of myocardial infarction demonstrated a transient coved‐type ECG change during catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia. The ECG change appeared during left ventricular mapping without any chest symptoms, and recovered spontaneously. A pilsicainide test was negative and a coved‐type ECG did not appear during the perioperative or follow‐up period.
PRODUCER PARTICIPATION IN BIOMASS MARKETS: FARM FACTORS, MARKET FACTORS, AND CORRELATED CHOICES
Authors: HOQUE MOHAMMAD MAINUL , ARTZ GEORGEANNE M. , JARBOE DARREN H. , MARTENS BOBBY J.
Published: April 2015

This study evaluates attitudes toward production of three major types of biomass—corncobs, corn stover, and dedicated energy grass—using responses to a mail survey of 2,250 Iowa farmers. We examine how factors influencing willingness to supply biomass vary across biomass types and analyze the presence of potential correlations across interest in growing various types of biomass. We find that correlation in choices across biomass types is strong and statistically significant. Farmers consider corn stover and corncobs as complementary, but dedicated energy grasses and corncobs or stover as substitutes. Factors affecting farmer choices also vary significantly by type of biomass.
Rigorous computation of invariant measures and fractal dimension for maps with contracting fibers: 2D Lorenz-like maps
Authors: GALATOLO STEFANO , NISOLI ISAIA
Published: April 2015

We consider a class of maps from the unit square to itself preserving a contracting foliation and inducing a one-dimensional map having an absolutely continuous invariant measure. We show how the physical measure of those systems can be rigorously approximated with an explicitly given bound on the error with respect to the Wasserstein distance. We present a rigorous implementation of our algorithm using interval arithmetics, and the result of the computation on a non-trivial example of a Lorenz-like two-dimensional map and its attractor, obtaining a statement on its local dimension.
Modal and non-modal stability analysis of electrohydrodynamic flow with and without cross-flow
Authors: Zhang Mengqi , Martinelli Fulvio , Wu Jian , Schmid Peter J. , Quadrio Maurizio
Published: April 2015

We report the results of a complete modal and non-modal linear stability analysis of the electrohydrodynamic flow for the problem of electroconvection in the strong-injection region. Convective cells are formed by the Coulomb force in an insulating liquid residing between two plane electrodes subject to unipolar injection. Besides pure electroconvection, we also consider the case where a cross-flow is present, generated by a streamwise pressure gradient, in the form of a laminar Poiseuille flow. The effect of charge diffusion, often neglected in previous linear stability analyses, is included in the present study and a transient growth analysis, rarely considered in electrohydrodynamics, is carried out. In the case without cross-flow, a non-zero charge diffusion leads to a lower linear stability threshold and thus to a more unstable flow. The transient growth, though enhanced by increasing charge diffusion, remains small and hence cannot fully account for the discrepancy of the linear stability threshold between theoretical and experimental results. When a cross-flow is present, increasing the strength of the electric field in the high-$\mathit{Re}$Poiseuille flow yields a more unstable flow in both modal and non-modal stability analyses. Even though the energy analysis and the input–output analysis both indicate that the energy growth directly related to the electric field is small, the electric effect enhances the lift-up mechanism. The symmetry of channel flow with respect to the centreline is broken due to the additional electric field acting in the wall-normal direction. As a result, the centres of the streamwise rolls are shifted towards the injector electrode, and the optimal spanwise wavenumber achieving maximum transient energy growth increases with the strength of the electric field.
Early Childhood Education at the Cultural Interface
Authors: Maher Marguerite , Buxton Lisa
Published: April 2015

The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia emphasises that children's own identity is constructed within their given context of family and community. This article presents the findings of a multiple case study project undertaken within five remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory, Australia. Community Elders were concerned that while their children had a positive sense of self during their prior-to-school years, on entry into formal schooling they experienced a disjuncture between those experiences and the expectations of a Western curriculum. The project involved partnering one university academic to work with each community, exploring ways of improving 4-year-old children's pre-reading and numeracy skills to enhance their capacity to engage with expectations on entry into formal schooling. Elders were determined to have the children be successful at school and saw success there as inextricably interwoven with their sense of efficacy to explore and to learn. Outcomes included positives such as children demonstrating increased pre-reading and numeracy skills and, importantly, the engagement of the whole community in the project. Foundational to the success was making Aboriginal ways of knowing, being and doing key components of learning opportunities provided to the children, supporting awareness of their social and cultural heritage.
Meanings and Dimensions of Organizational Justice in China: An Inductive Investigation
Authors: Guo Chun , Giacobbe-Miller Jane K.
Published: April 2015

Taking an inductive approach followed by validation techniques, we analyzed the meaning and dimensionality of the organizational justice construct in the People's Republic of China (China). By using qualitative and quantitative methods, we found that organizational justice involves a higher level of subjectivity in the Chinese context. Interpretation and organizational justice judgments depend on the specific situation and social relations involved. The findings revealed similarities with the Western conceptualization with one important exception, suggesting both cultural values and institutional environment shape justice judgments and managerial practices in China. The article concludes with a discussion of the findings and implications for management theory, research, and practice.
Editorial Statement for MOR Dialogue, Debate, and Discussion
Authors: Välikangas Liisa
Published: April 2015

I am honored to join the MOR editorial team as the editor for Dialogue, Debate, and Discussion. My commitment is to facilitate dialogue, debate, and discussion on management and organization theory that is rooted in practice in emerging economies yet has implications beyond. Let us learn ‘slowly’ (cf. Levinthal & March, 1993) and resist too fast convergence to Western management methods before we have a chance to better understand and assimilate the divergence around the world.
A high-cholesterol diet enriched with polyphenols from Oriental plums (Prunus salicina) improves cognitive function and lowers brain cholesterol levels and neurodegenerative-related protein expression in mice
Authors: Kuo Ping-Hui , Lin Ching-I , Chen Yue-Hwa , Chiu Wan-Chun , Lin Shyh-Hsiang
Published: April 2015

Ageing accompanied by a decline in cognitive performance may be a result of the long-term effects of oxidative stress on neurologic processes. It has been shown that high-cholesterol contents in the blood and brain may lead to the deposition of the β-amyloid (Aβ) protein in the brain, which damages brain cells. The present study was designed to observe the effect of polyphenol-rich Oriental plums on cognitive function and cerebral neurodegeneration-related protein expression in mice that were fed a high-cholesterol diet for 5 months. The study consisted of four groups: the control (Ctrl) group, which was fed the American Institute of Nutrition (AIN)-93M diet; the high cholesterol (HC) group, which was fed the AIN-93M diet with 5 % cholesterol; the high cholesterol+low Oriental plum (LOP) group, which was fed the AIN-93M diet with 5 % cholesterol and 2 % Oriental plum powder; and the high cholesterol+high Oriental plum (HOP) group, which was fed the AIN-93M diet with 5 % cholesterol and 5 % Oriental plum powder. Measurements of cognitive function were assessed using the Morris water maze, and the mRNA expression of cholesterol hydroxylase (Cyp46),Aβand β-secretase 1 (BACE1) were analysed. The results showed that cholesterol concentrations in both the blood and the brain were significantly higher in the HC group than in the Ctrl and HOP groups at the end of the trial. The high-cholesterol dietper seproduced significant cognitive deficits, which were accompanied by a significantly increased mRNA expression ofCyp46,BACE1,Aβand 24-hydroxycholesterol in the brain cortex and hippocampus. However, all of these variables were non-significantly increased in the HOP group as compared to the Ctrl group. In conclusion, incorporating polyphenol-enriched Oriental plum into a high-cholesterol diet can ameliorate some of the symptoms of neurodegenerative conditions.
Food consumption of adults in Germany: results of the German National Nutrition Survey II based on diet history interviews
Authors: Heuer Thorsten , Krems Carolin , Moon Kilson , Brombach Christine , Hoffmann Ingrid
Published: April 2015

The second German National Nutrition Survey (NVS II) aimed to evaluate food consumption and other aspects of nutritional behaviour of a representative sample of the German population, using a modular design with three different dietary assessment methods. To assess usual food consumption, 15 371 German speaking subjects 14–80 years of age completed a diet history interview between November 2005 and November 2006. With reference to the guidelines of the German Nutrition Society (DGE), NVS II observed that the German population did not eat enough foods of plant origin, especially vegetables and consumed too much of meat and meat products. While generally similar food consumption is observed in other European countries, consumption of bread, fruit juices/nectars and beer is higher in Germany. On average, men consumed two times more meat and soft drinks as well as six times more beer than women did, whereas the consumption of vegetables, fruit as well as herbal/fruit tea was higher in women. Older participants showed a lower consumption of meat, fruit juice/nectars, soft drinks and spirits as well as a higher consumption of fish, vegetables, fruit, and herbal/fruit tea than adolescents and younger adults did. There are also differences in food consumption with regard to socio-economic status (SES). Persons with higher SES consumed more vegetables, fruit, fish, water, coffee/tea and wine, while persons with lower SES consumed more meat and meat products, soft drinks and beer. In general, the food consumption of women, the elderly and the higher SES group tends to be closer to the official dietary guidelines in Germany.
Prediction of metabolisable energy concentrations of fresh-cut grass using digestibility data measured with non-pregnant non-lactating cows
Authors: Stergiadis Sokratis , Allen Michelle , Chen Xianjiang , Wills David , Yan Tianhai
Published: April 2015

Pasture-based ruminant production systems are common in certain areas of the world, but energy evaluation in grazing cattle is performed with equations developed, in their majority, with sheep or cattle fed total mixed rations. The aim of the current study was to develop predictions of metabolisable energy (ME) concentrations in fresh-cut grass offered to non-pregnant non-lactating cows at maintenance energy level, which may be more suitable for grazing cattle. Data were collected from three digestibility trials performed over consecutive grazing seasons. In order to cover a range of commercial conditions and data availability in pasture-based systems, thirty-eight equations for the prediction of energy concentrations and ratios were developed. An internal validation was performed for all equations and also for existing predictions of grass ME. Prediction error for ME using nutrient digestibility was lowest when gross energy (GE) or organic matter digestibilities were used as sole predictors, while the addition of grass nutrient contents reduced the difference between predicted and actual values, and explained more variation. Addition of N, GE and diethyl ether extract (EE) contents improved accuracy when digestible organic matter in DM was the primary predictor. When digestible energy was the primary explanatory variable, prediction error was relatively low, but addition of water-soluble carbohydrates, EE and acid-detergent fibre contents of grass decreased prediction error. Equations developed in the current study showed lower prediction errors when compared with those of existing equations, and may thus allow for an improved prediction of ME in practice, which is critical for the sustainability of pasture-based systems.
Low BMI is inversely associated with arterial stiffness in Africans
Authors: Huisman Hugo Willem , Schutte Rudolph , Venter Herman Louwrens , van Rooyen Johannes Marthinus
Published: April 2015

In low socio-economic status communities in South Africa, African men showed a low BMI. Data on the effect of low BMI on cardiovascular function are scant. The present study aimed to assess the associations between low BMI and markers of cardiovascular function such as pulse wave velocity (PWV) and blood pressure in Africans aged 35–65 years, with low socio-economic status. The study population (n 496) was stratified into a low-BMI group with BMI ≤ 20 kg/m2 and a normal-BMI group with BMI >20 kg/m2 and ≤ 25 kg/m2. Blood pressure (Omron HEM-757) and PWV (Complior SP; Artech-Medical) was determined. Africans with low BMI showed an increased arterial stiffness with significantly higher PWV compared with the normal-BMI group (men: P= 0·001; women: P= 0·026), which remained after adjustment. In men with low BMI, PWV correlated negatively with BMI before (r − 0·204; P= 0·012) and after (r − 0·200; P= 0·020) adjustment. Forward stepwise regression analyses indicated a negative association between PWV and BMI in African men. A J-curve was evident suggesting a detrimental effect of low BMI on cardiovascular function in Africans. A low BMI may contribute to the high prevalence of cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality within a developing country.