bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pericardial covered stent for coronary perforations
Authors: Chen Shmuel , Lotan Chaim , Jaffe Ronen , Rubinshtein Ronen , Ben‐Assa Eyal , Roguin Ariel , Varshitzsky Boris , Danenberg Haim D.
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To evaluate initial and long term results of coronary perforation treatment with pericardial covered stent.

Background

Iatrogenic coronary perforation is a rare life threatening complication of percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) occurring in 0.1–0.8% of cases. Covered stents are the mainstay of therapy for coronary perforation. However, polytetrafluoroethylene covered stents are bulky with limited flexibility and thus may not be easy to deliver in difficult anatomy. Therefore, they are reserved to perforations in proximal or mid straight segments where their delivery is relatively easy. The pericardial covered stent is a highly deliverable fully covered stent that may be used to treat coronary perforations. Only a single case has been reported of the use of this stent in its previous version for the treatment of coronary perforation.

Methods

The electronic databases of four tertiary medical centers were retrospectively reviewed for cases of coronary perforations in which PCS was used. During a five years period, between 2008 and 2013, 18,364 patients underwent PCI in these centers. Nine cases of perforations for which balloon dilatation was not sufficient and pericardial covered stent was used were recorded.

Results

All nine cases were successfully treated with pericardial covered stent. Six of the patients underwent repeated angiography at 2–15 months, and in two of them instent restenosis that warranted repeated angioplasty was observed. One of them was catheterized for NSTEMI 3 months after the covered stent implantation, and stent thrombosis was demonstrated.

Conclusions

Pericardial covered stents offer a safe and effective therapy for coronary perforation when balloon inflation and reversal of anticoagulation are insufficient. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ST‐segment elevation on intracoronary electrocardiogram after percutaneous coronary intervention is associated with worse outcome in patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Hishikari Keiichi , Kakuta Tsunekazu , Lee Tetsumin , Murai Tadashi , Yonetsu Taishi , Isobe Mitsuaki
Published: July 2015

Objectives

We sought to examine whether intracoronary electrocardiogram (IC‐ECG) assessment in patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) can predict cardiac outcomes.

Background

There has been no data correlating myocardial damage and cardiac events with an IC‐ECG ST‐segment change after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in NSTEMI patients.

Methods

We examined 111 NSTEMI patients undergoing PCI with an IC‐ECG recording. IC‐ECG ST‐segment elevation (STE) was defined as >0.1 mV in the risk area, located by placing the guidewire distal to the culprit lesion. Clinical characteristics and in‐hospital and long‐term follow‐up adverse cardiac event rates were compared between IC‐ECG STE and non‐IC‐ECG STE groups at the completion of PCI.

Results

IC‐ECG STE was observed in 36 patients (32.4%) immediately after PCI. Peak cardiac biomarkers were significantly elevated in patients with IC‐ECG STE versus those without (cardiac troponin I 31.9 ng/mL (18.0–104.5) vs. 8.2 ng/mL (1.8‐21.4); P < 0.001). At a median follow‐up of 35 months, the cardiac event free rate was significantly worse in patients with IC‐ECG STE than in those without (long‐rank test χ2 = 10.9; P = 0.001). Cox proportional hazards analysis showed IC‐ECG STE (hazard ratio, 2.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.38–4.70; P = 0.003) was an independent predictors of cardiac events.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that presence of IC‐ECG STE might help identify high‐risk NSTEMI patients with greater myocardial injury leading to adverse cardiac events. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Utility of rotational atherectomy and outcomes over an eight‐year period
Authors: Couper Lachlan T. , Loane Philippa , Andrianopoulos Nick , Brennan Angela , Nanayakkara Shane , Nerlekar Nitesh , Scott Peter , Walton Anthony S. , Clark David J. , Duffy Stephen J. , Ajani Andrew E , Reid Chris , Shaw James A. ,   on behalf of the Melbourne Interventional Group (MIG) Investigators
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To evaluate outcomes of patients undergoing rotational atherectomy (RA) in a multicenter percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) registry.

Background

RA remains an important technique for plaque modification in PCI, particularly with complex calcification.

Methods

The study population consisted of consecutive patients undergoing PCI in nine major Australian hospitals, who were treated over an 8‐year period (June 2004 to June 2012).

Results

Of 16,577 PCI's, 1.0% of patients n = 167 (214 lesions) underwent RA. Patients undergoing RA were more likely to be older (71.0 ± 9.7 vs. 64.4 ±11.9 years, P < 0.01), with greater incidence of diabetes (37.7% vs. 23.8%, P < 0.01) and renal impairment. There was no significant difference in procedural success (94.6% vs. 95.5%, P = 0.57), dissection (6.1% vs. 4.8%, P = 0.39), transient no reflow (4.4% vs. 2.8%, P = 0.23), or persistent no reflow (0% RA vs. 0.7% non‐RA, P = 0.23). Those undergoing RA had a low but increased risk of death at 12 months (6.6 vs. 3.6%, P = 0.04). There was no significant difference in 12 month major adverse cardiovascular outcomes (MACE) between groups following adjustment for univariate predictors (OR 1.00, 95%CI; 0.93–1.08). Additionally, there was no significant difference in 30‐day MACE (6.0% vs. 5.1%, P = 0.62) or 30‐day mortality (2.4% vs. 1.8%, P = 0.54) between groups.

Conclusions

In this large multicenter registry, RA continues to be used to treat complex lesions with low procedural complications and MACE rates. It is essential for interventional cardiologists to maintain skills in RA to enable effective percutaneous treatment of certain complex lesions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Contained rupture of patched right ventricular outflow tracts during balloon sizing for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation
Authors: Boe Brian A. , Bocks Martin L. , Armstrong Aimee K.
Published: July 2015

Transcatheter pulmonary valves are being used off‐label to treat pulmonary insufficiency in patched right ventricular outflow tracts (RVOTs). We describe the first reported cases of patched RVOT rupture, during balloon sizing for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation, in two patients with tetralogy of Fallot status post repair. Both RVOTs were too large for subsequent catheter‐based intervention. The ruptures remained stable over time, and both patients were managed conservatively with follow‐up imaging. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In vitro study of endogenous CEST agents at 3 T and 7 T
Authors: Lee Jae‐Seung , Xia Ding , Jerschow Alexej , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: July 2015

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) has been an intensive research area in MRI, providing contrast mechanisms for the amplified detection and monitoring of biomarkers and physiologically active molecules. In biological tissues and organs, many endogenous CEST agents coexist, and their CEST effects may overlap. The interpretation of such overlapped CEST effects can be addressed when the individual CEST effects originating from various metabolites are characterized. In this work, we present the in vitro measurements of the CEST effects from endogenous CEST agents that are commonly found in biological tissues and organs, at the external magnetic fields of 3 T and 7 T and under various pH conditions. Together with the proton NMR spectra measured at 11.7 T, these CEST effects have been evaluated in consideration of the chemical exchange rates, chemical shifts, and acidities of the labile protons. Amine protons of small metabolites might not be visible at 3 T, but some of them can be probed at 7 T, wherein their CEST effects may overlap with those from coexisting amide and hydroxyl protons.
The Role of Gender Differences in the Impact of CSR Perceptions on Corporate Marketing Outcomes
Authors: Hur Won‐Moo , Kim Hanna , Jang Joon Hyo
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate gender differences in corporate social responsibility (CSR) perceptions regarding business sustainability. Another important objective of this study was to explore the moderating role of gender on the relationship between CSR perception and three corporate marketing outcomes (i.e., corporate brand equity, corporate distrust, and corporate hypocrisy). Using a sample of 867 consumers in South Korea, at‐test and hierarchical moderated regression analysis were employed to test four hypotheses. The results of this study showed that female consumers have a higher perception toward CSR than male consumers. The results also revealed that the positive relationship between CSR perception and corporate brand equity was stronger among men than women. In addition, the negative relationships between CSR perception and corporate distrust and between CSR perception and corporate hypocrisy were both stronger among men than women. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Compact CMOS active quenching/recharge circuit for SPAD arrays
Authors: Vornicu Ion , Carmona‐Galán Ricardo , Pérez‐Verdú Belén , Rodríguez‐Vázquez Ángel
Published: July 2015

Avalanche diodes operating in Geiger mode are able to detect single photon events. They can be employed to photon counting and time‐of‐flight estimation. In order to ensure proper operation of these devices, the avalanche current must be rapidly quenched, and, later on, the initial equilibrium must be restored. In this paper, we present an active quenching/recharge circuit specially designed to be integrated in the form of an array of single‐photon avalanche diode (SPAD) detectors. Active quenching and recharge provide benefits like an accurately controllable pulse width and afterpulsing reduction. In addition, this circuit yields one of the lowest reported area occupations and power consumptions. The quenching mechanism employed is based on a positive feedback loop that accelerates quenching right after sensing the avalanche current. We have employed a current starved inverter for the regulation of the hold‐off time, which is more compact than other reported controllable delay implementations. This circuit has been fabricated in a standard 0.18 µm complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) technology. The SPAD has a quasi‐circular shape of 12 µm diameter active area. The fill factor is about 11%. The measured time resolution of the detector is 187 ps. The photon‐detection efficiency (PDE) at 540 nm wavelength is about 5% at an excess voltage of 900 mV. The break‐down voltage is 10.3 V. A dark count rate of 19 kHz is measured at room temperature. Worst case post‐layout simulations show a 117 ps quenching and 280 ps restoring times. The dead time can be accurately tuned from 5 to 500 ns. The pulse‐width jitter is below 1.8 ns when dead time is set to 40 ns. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wide‐locking range divide‐by‐4 injection‐locked frequency divider using injection MOSFET DC‐biased above threshold region
Authors: Jang Sheng‐Lyang , Chang Yu–Tai , Hsue Ching‐Wen , Juang Miin‐Horng
Published: July 2015

A novel wide locking range divide‐by‐4 injection‐locked frequency divider (ILFD) is proposed in the paper and was implemented in the TSMC 0.18 µm 1P6M CMOS process. The divide‐by‐4 ILFD uses two injection transistors in series and DC‐biased above threshold voltage and a frequency doubler to enhance the function of linear mixers. At the drain‐source bias of 0.9 V and at the incident power of 0 dBm, the locking range of the divide‐by‐4 is 2.6 GHz; from the incident frequency 12.2 to 14.8 GHz, the percentage is 19.26%. The core power consumption is 10.35 mW. The die area of ILFD is 1.026 × 0.943 mm2. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Naturally occurring variation in tadpole morphology and performance linked to predator regime
Authors: Johnson James B. , Saenz Daniel , Adams Cory K. , Hibbitts Toby J.
Published: July 2015

Divergent natural selection drives a considerable amount of the phenotypic and genetic variation observed in natural populations. For example, variation in the predator community can generate conflicting selection on behavioral, life‐history, morphological, and performance traits. Differences in predator regime can subsequently increase phenotypic and genetic variations in the population and result in the evolution of reproductive barriers (ecological speciation) or phenotypic plasticity. We evaluated morphology and swimming performance in field collected Bronze Frog larvae (Lithobates clamitans) in ponds dominated by predatory fish and those dominated by invertebrate predators. Based on previous experimental findings, we hypothesized that tadpoles from fish‐dominated ponds would have small bodies, long tails, and large tail muscles and that these features would facilitate fast‐start speed. We also expected to see increased tail fin depth (i.e., the tail‐lure morphology) in tadpoles from invertebrate‐dominated ponds. Our results support our expectations with respect to morphology in affecting swimming performance of tadpoles in fish‐dominated ponds. Furthermore, it is likely that divergent natural selection is playing a role in the diversification on morphology and locomotor performance in this system.
Production and Photoelectric Activity of P and Al Co‐Doped ZnO Nanomaterials
Authors: Deng Ya‐Juan , Lu Yi , Liu Jin‐Ku , Yang Xiao‐Hong
Published: July 2015

Materials that have both conductivity and photocatalytic activity are widely applied in electrical devices and as environmental pollution handles. Based on such requirements, phosphorus and aluminium co‐doped conductive zinc oxide nanocrystals (PAZO NCs) with novel visible‐light catalytic activities have been mass produced by the combustion method. The PAZO NCs have diameters of 30–100 nm and BET specific surface areas of 15.27–18.99 m2 g–1. These PAZO NCs exhibited novel photocatalytic activity and good conductivity [the powder conductivity was (0.98–1.76) ×10–4 S cm–1], the reason being mainly attributed to the increase in carrier concentration and defects through P and Al co‐doping. In addition, we found that the 3PAZO NCs, in which the molar ratio of Zn to P atoms is 100:3, had the best visible‐light catalytic efficiency of the PAZO NCs, and the size of PAZO NCs decreased with increasing doping of phosphorus and aluminium. This study is useful as a reference for the mass production of modified ZnO NCs and its applications, such as in environmental management, photocatalysis, and anti‐static electricity.
Silver‐Based 4A Zeolite Composite Catalyst for Styrene Epoxidation by One‐Pot Hydrothermal Synthesis
Authors: Hu Xiaosong , Bai Jie , Li Chunping , Liang Haiou , Sun Weiyan
Published: July 2015

A silver‐based 4A zeolite composite catalyst had been successfully synthesized by a facile one‐pot hydrothermal method. Silver ions were fully mixed with the zeolite crystal nucleus and formed silver nanoparticles in the process of zeolite crystallization. The catalyst was characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, diffuse‐reflectance UV/Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), field‐emission SEM (FESEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The distribution of the silver nanoparticles is relatively homogeneous inside and outside of the 4A zeolite. Furthermore, the catalytic performance for the epoxidation of styrene was tested, and the prepared catalyst showed excellent catalytic activity. The catalyst amount, reaction time, and different solvents were comprehensively investigated, and the catalytic activity of the silver‐based 4A zeolite composite catalyst was displayed fully in acetonitrile. The conversion of styrene was 80.8 %, and the selectivity of styrene oxide (SO) reached 89.2 %.
A Hierarchical MoO2/Au/MnO2 Hetero­structure with Enhanced Electrochemical Performance for Application as Supercapacitor
Authors: Zhang Xia , Xu Yuandong , Ma Ying , Yang Min , Qi Yanxing
Published: July 2015

A hierarchical MoO2/Au/MnO2 heterostructure was prepared by a two‐step electrodeposition method. The ion‐diffusion and charge‐collection capacity improved after spraying a Au layer. Electrochemical tests show that the areal specific capacitance for MoO2/Au/MnO2 is up to 112 mF cm–2 at a scan rate of 5 mV s–1. Furthermore, the obtained MoO2/Au/MnO2 heterostructure also displays an excellent rate capability and remarkable cycling stability.
Formulation of bio‐based epoxy foams from epoxidized cardanol and vegetable oil amine
Authors: Dworakowska Sylwia , Cornille Adrien , Bogdał Dariusz , Boutevin Bernard , Caillol Sylvain
Published: July 2015

This article deals with the synthesis of new bio‐based epoxy foams from the reaction between cardanol‐derived epoxy compounds and vegetable oil‐derived diamines. Cardanol is a natural alkylphenol obtained from Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL), an abundant non‐edible by‐product of the cashew nutshell industry. Curing of epoxy monomers proceeded by reaction with Priamine 1073 diamine. Poly(methylhydrogenosiloxane) was used as blowing agent in order to expand epoxy material. Bio‐based epoxy foams were formulated with different amounts of blowing agent and were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis, thermal analysis, and by measurement of their apparent density. The foams exhibited good thermal stability above 210°C and glass transition temperatures around 20°C. Obtained materials can be considered as promising low cost and environmentally friendly foams for structural applications.

Practical applications: The reactant described in this article, i.e., epoxidized cardanol from CNSL, provides bio‐based aromatic building blocks for further epoxy foam syntheses by reaction with vegetable oil‐derived amine and blowing agent. The obtained rigid epoxy foams are partially bio‐based and may be applied as shock, thermal and vibration insulation, and for the production of lightweight materials for the transportation industry such as aircraft‐interior panels and crash pads.

This paper proposes new epoxy foams from cardanol epoxy and fatty amines.
Building and Sharing Knowledge Key Practice: What Do You Know, What Don't You Know, What Did You Learn?
Authors: O'Reilly Tenaha , Deane Paul , Sabatini John
Published: July 2015

In this paper we provide the rationale and foundation for the building and sharing knowledge key practice for the CBAL™ English language arts competency model. Building and sharing knowledge is a foundational literacy activity that enables students to learn and communicate what they read in texts. It is a strategic process that involves the integration of five key components or phases. Before reading, students activate their relevant background knowledge to help set learning goals, identify relevant information, and ask guiding questions that set the context for learning. During reading, students understand the text by using a host of strategies to construct a coherent mental model of the text content that is consistent with their background knowledge. Students clarify meanings of unknown words and concepts as they engage in metacognitive and self‐regulated learning. After reading, students consolidate what they have read by using a variety of reading strategies that strengthen the representation in long‐term memory. Finally, students convey what they have read in writing, speaking, or other representational formats to reflect communication goals and the intended audience. Collectively, the building and sharing knowledge key practice is intended to both model skilled performance and help identify component skill weakness. In this paper we outline the major features of the key practice as well as address potential advantages and challenges of the approach.
Adsorption‐induced changes of intramolecular optical transitions:PTCDA/NaCl and PTCDA/KCl
Authors: Hochheim Manuel , Bredow Thomas
Published: July 2015

Structural and optical properties of isolated perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride molecules adsorbed on (100) oriented NaCl and KCl surfaces were studied theoretically to analyze the recently observed red‐shift of the optical excitation spectrum after adsorption (Müller et al., Phys. Rev.B, 2011, 83, 241203; Paulheim et al. Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2013, 15, 4906). The ground‐state structures were obtained by periodic dispersion‐corrected density functional theory (DFT) calculations. For the excited‐state calculations, nonperiodic time‐dependent DFT methods were applied for a cluster model embedded in point charges. The range‐separated hybrid functional CAM‐B3LYP was used. Correlation‐consistent basis sets were used and the calculated excitation energies were extrapolated to the complete basis set limit. The shift of the first optical excitation energy was analyzed in terms of electronic and geometric contributions. It was found that both the distortion of the molecule due to the interaction with the surface and the electrostatic potential of the surface play an important role. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrochemical Detection of Rutin on Mg2Al‐Cl Layered Double Hydroxide Modified Carbon Ionic Liquid Electrode
Authors: Lou Jin , Yan Lijun , Wang Wencheng , Ruan Chengxiang , Hu Anhui , Sun Wei
Published: July 2015

In this paper a Mg2Al‐Cl layered double hydroxide (Mg2Al‐LDH) modified carbon ionic liquid electrode (CILE) was prepared and further used for the electrochemical detection of rutin. Cyclic voltammograms of rutin on Mg2Al‐LDH/CILE were recorded with a pair of well‐defined redox peaks appeared in pH 2.5 phosphate buffer solution, which was ascribed to the electrochemical reaction of rutin. Due to the presence of Mg2Al‐LDH on the electrode surface, the redox peak currents increased greatly and the electrochemical parameters were calculated. Under the optimal conditions the oxidation peak current was proportional to rutin concentration in the range from 0.08 μmol L‐1 to 800.0 μmol L‐1 with the detection limit on 0.0255 μmol L‐1 (3σ). The fabricated electrode showed good reproducibility and stability, which was successfully applied to rutin tablet samples determination.
Effect of the specific proteasome inhibitor bortezomib on cancer‐related muscle wasting
Authors: Penna Fabio , Bonetto Andrea , Aversa Zaira , Minero Valerio Giacomo , Rossi Fanelli Filippo , Costelli Paola , Muscaritoli Maurizio
Published: July 2015

Background

Muscle wasting, a prominent feature of cancer cachexia, is mainly caused by sustained protein hypercatabolism. The enhanced muscle protein degradation rates rely on the activity of different proteolytic systems, although the Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐ubiquitin‐proteasome‐dependent pathway and autophagy have been shown to play a pivotal role. Bortezomib is a potent reversible and selective proteasome and NF‐κB inhibitor approved for the clinical use, which has been shown to be effective in preventing muscle wasting in different catabolic conditions. The aim of the present study has been to investigate whether pharmacological inhibition of proteasome by bortezomib may prevent skeletal muscle wasting in experimental cancer cachexia.

Methods

Cancer cachexia was induced in rats by intraperitoneal injection of Yoshida AH‐130 ascites hepatoma cells and in mice by subcutaneous inoculation of C26 carcinoma cells. Animals were then further randomized to receive bortezomib. The AH‐130 hosts were weighted and sacrificed under anaesthesia, on Days 3, 4, 5, and 7 after tumour inoculation, while C26‐bearing mice were weighted and sacrificed under anaesthesia 12 days after tumour transplantation. NF‐κB and proteasome activation, MuRF1 and atrogin‐1 mRNA expression and beclin‐1 protein levels were evaluated in the gastrocnemius of controls and AH‐130 hosts.

Results

Bortezomib administration in the AH‐130 hosts, although able to reduce proteasome and NF‐κB DNA‐binding activity in the skeletal muscle on Day 7 after tumour transplantation, did not prevent body weight loss and muscle wasting. In addition, bortezomib exerted a transient toxicity, as evidenced by the reduced food intake and by the increase in NF‐κB DNA‐binding activity in the AH‐130 hosts 3 days after tumour transplantation. Beclin‐1 protein levels were increased by bortezomib treatment in Day 3 controls but were unchanged on both Days 3 and 7 in the AH‐130 hosts, suggesting that an early compensatory induction of autophagy may exist in healthy but not in tumour‐bearing animals. Regarding C26‐bearing mice, bortezomib did not prevent as well body and muscle weight loss 12 days after tumour implantation.

Conclusions

The results obtained suggest that proteasome inhibition by bortezomib is not able to prevent muscle wasting in experimental cancer cachexia. Further studies are needed to address the issue whether a different dosage of bortezomib alone or in combination with other drugs modulating different molecular pathways may effectively prevent muscle wasting during cancer cachexia.
Quercetin improves the activity of the ubiquitin‐proteasomal system in 150Q mutated huntingtin‐expressing cells but exerts detrimental effects on neuronal survivability
Authors: Chakraborty J. , Rajamma U. , Jana N. , Mohanakumar K.P.
Published: July 2015

Quercetin, a strong free radical scavenger, is investigated for neuroprotective effects in a Neuro 2a cell line conditionally transfected with 16Qhuntingtin(Htt) and 150QHtt, which express the protein upon stimulation. Cells were protected from death by a 20‐µM dose of quercetin on the second day ofHttinduction, but 30–100‐µM doses of the drug caused further toxicity in both 16Q and 150Q cells, as indicated by MTT assay and by significant reductions in the number of cells bearing neurites on the second day. A significant decrease in the number of cells containing aggregate was seen in induced 150Q cells treated with 20 µM but not for those treated with 40 or 50 µM quercetin up to 4 days of induction. Mutated Htt (mHtt)‐induced reduction in proteasomal activity of the ubiquitin‐proteasomal system (UPS) was significantly attenuated by 20 µM quercetin. However, neither mitochondrial membrane potential loss nor colocalization of 20S proteasome with mHtt aggregate was corrected by quercetin treatment. Our results imply that the neuroprotective effect of quercetin arises out of the upregulation of UPS activity, which causes a decrease in the number of mHtt aggregate‐harboring cells. The increased neurotoxicity could result from the continued association of mHtt with 20S proteasome and the failure of quercetin to correct mitochondrial membrane potential loss. These results suggest that, although quercetin at a low dose protects against mHtt‐mediated cell death, higher doses are toxic to the cells, clearly demarcating a narrow therapeutic window for this dietary flavonoid. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Alkaline pH sensor molecules
Authors: Murayama Takashi , Maruyama Ichiro N.
Published: July 2015

Animals can survive only within a narrow pH range. This requires continual monitoring of environmental and body‐fluid pH. Although a variety of acidic pH sensor molecules have been reported, alkaline pH sensor function is not well understood. This Review describes neuronal alkaline pH sensors, grouped according to whether they monitor extracellular or intracellular alkaline pH. Extracellular sensors include the receptor‐type guanylyl cyclase, the insulin receptor‐related receptor, ligand‐gated Cl– channels, connexin hemichannels, two‐pore‐domain K+ channels, and transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. Intracellular sensors include TRP channels and gap junction channels. Identification of molecular mechanisms underlying alkaline pH sensing is crucial for understanding how animals respond to environmental alkaline pH and how body‐fluid pH is maintained within a narrow range. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in temperature and precipitation extreme indices over China: analysis of a high‐resolution grid dataset
Authors: Zhou Botao , Xu Ying , Wu Jia , Dong Siyan , Shi Ying
Published: July 2015

Based on the high‐resolution gridding data (CN05) from 2416 station observations, a grid dataset of temperature and precipitation extreme indices with the resolution of 0.5° × 0.5° for China region was developed using the approach recommended by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices. This article comprehensively presents temporal and spatial changes of these indices for the time period 1961–2010. Results showed widespread significant changes in temperature extremes consistent with warming, for instance, decreases in cold extremes and increases in warm extremes over China. The warming in the coldest day and night is larger than the warmest day and night, respectively, which is concurrent with the coldest night larger than the coldest day and the warmest night larger than the warmest day. Changes in the number of the cold and warm nights are more remarkable than the cold and warm days. Changes in precipitation extremes are, in general, spatially more complex and exhibit a less widespread spatial coverage than the temperature indices, for instance, the patterns of annual total precipitation amount, average daily precipitation rate, and the proportion of heavy precipitation in total annual precipitation are similar with negative trends in a southwest–northeast belt from Southwest China to Northeast China while positive trends in eastern China and northwestern China. The consistency of changes in climate extremes from the CN05 with other datasets based on the stations and reanalyses is also analysed.
Approximate chemical analysis of volcanic glasses using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Di Genova Danilo , Morgavi Daniele , Hess Kai‐Uwe , Neuville Daniel R. , Borovkov Nikita , Perugini Diego , Dingwell Donald B.
Published: July 2015

The effect of chemical composition on the Raman spectra of a series of natural calcalkaline silicate glasses has been quantified by performing electron microprobe analyses and obtaining Raman spectra on glassy filaments (~450 µm) derived from a magma mingling experiment. The results provide a robust compositionally‐dependent database for the Raman spectra of natural silicate glasses along the calcalkaline series. An empirical model based on both the acquired Raman spectra and an ideal mixing equation between calcalkaline basaltic and rhyolitic end‐members is constructed enabling the estimation of the chemical composition and degree of polymerization of silicate glasses using Raman spectra. The model is relatively insensitive to acquisition conditions and has been validated using the MPI‐DING geochemical standard glasses as well as further samples. The methods and model developed here offer several advantages compared with other analytical and spectroscopic methods such as infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy, electron and ion microprobe analyses, inasmuch as Raman spectroscopy can be performed with a high spatial resolution (1 µm2) without the need for any sample preparation as a nondestructive technique. This study represents an advance in efforts to provide the first database of Raman spectra for natural silicate glasses and yields a new approach for the treatment of Raman spectra, which allows us to extract approximate information about the chemical composition of natural silicate glasses using Raman spectroscopy. We anticipate its application in handheld in situ terrestrial field studies of silicate glasses under extreme conditions (e.g. extraterrestrial and submarine environments). © 2015 The Authors Journal of Raman Spectroscopy Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Carnosic acid inhibits STAT3 signaling and induces apoptosis through generation of ROS in human colon cancer HCT116 cells
Authors: Kim Do‐Hee , Park Ki‐Woong , Chae In Gyeong , Kundu Juthika , Kim Eun‐Hee , Kundu Joydeb Kumar , Chun Kyung‐Soo
Published: July 2015

Carnosic acid (CA), the main antioxidant compound of Rosmarinus officinalis L., has been reported to possess anticancer activity. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of CA remain poorly understood. Our study revealed that CA treatment significantly reduced the viability of human colon cancer HCT116, SW480, and HT‐29 cells. Treatment with CA induced apoptosis, which was associated with the induction of p53 and Bax, inhibition of Mdm2, Bcl‐2, and Bcl‐xl expression, activation of caspase‐9, and ‐3, and the cleavage of PARP in HCT116 cells. CA inhibited the constitutive phosphorylation, the DNA binding and the reporter gene activity of STAT3 in HCT116 cells by blocking the phosphorylation of upstream JAK2 and Src kinases. Moreover, CA attenuated the expression of STAT3 target gene products, such as survivin, cyclin D1, D2, and D3. In STAT3‐overexpressed HCT116 cells, CA inhibited cell viability and the expression of cyclin D1 and survivin. Furthermore, CA treatment induced the generation of ROS in these colon cancer cells. Pretreatment of cells with ROS scavenger N‐acetyl cysteine abrogated the inhibitory effect of CA on the JAK2‐STAT3/Src‐STAT3 signaling and rescued cells from CA‐induced apoptosis by blocking the induction of p53 and the cleavage of caspase‐3 and PARP in HCT116 cells. However, L‐buthionine‐sulfoximine, a pharmacological inhibitor of GSH synthesis, increased CA‐induced ROS production, thereby potentiating apoptotic effect of CA. In conclusion, our study provides the first report that CA induced apoptosis in HCT116 cells via generation of ROS, induction of p53, activation of caspases, and inhibition of STAT3 signaling pathway. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Colon carcinogenesis in wild type and immune compromised mice after treatment with azoxymethane, and azoxymethane with dextran sodium sulfate
Authors: Whetstone Ryan D. , Wittel Uwe A. , Michels Nicole M. , Gulizia James M. , Gold Barry
Published: July 2015

The association between inflammation and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) is well documented in animal models and in humans, but the mechanistic role of inflammation in CRC is less well understood. To address this question, the induction of colon tumors was evaluated in (i) wild type (WT) and athymic BALB/c mice treated with the colon carcinogen azoxymethane (AOM) as a single agent, and (ii) in an inflammation model of colon cancer employing AOM and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in WT, athymic, TCRβ−/−, TCRδ−/− and TCRβ−/− TCRδ−/− C57Bl/6 mice. The athymic BALB/c mice treated with only AOM developed 90% fewer tumors than the WT mice. The difference in response was not due to metabolic activation of AOM or repair of DNA adducts. In the inflammation model using a standard sequential exposure to AOM followed by DSS treatment, the tumor incidence in WT mice was 58% with 7 adenomas and 6 adenocarcinomas. In contrast, the TCRβ−/−, TCRδ−/− and TCRβ−/−TCRδ−/− C57Bl/6 mice showed adenoma incidences of 10, 33, and 11%, respectively, and none of the immune compromised mice developed adenocarcinomas. When the DSS exposure was increased and the AOM lowered, no difference was observed between WT and TCRβ−/− mice due to an increase in the incidence in the TCR null mice without concomitant increase in the WT mice. No tumors were observed in mice treated with AOM or DSS alone. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fine singularity analysis of solutions to the Laplace equation: Berg's effect
Authors: Kubica Adam , Rybka Piotr
Published: July 2015

J. Banasiak We study Berg's effect on special domains. This effect is understood as a monotonicity of a harmonic function (with respect to the distance from the center of a flat part of the boundary) restricted to the boundary. The harmonic function must satisfy piecewise constant Neumann boundary conditions. We show that Berg's effect is a rare and fragile phenomenon. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Laplace equation in 3D domains with cracks: dual singularities with log terms and extraction of corresponding edge flux intensity functions
Authors: Shannon Samuel , Peron Victor , Yosibash Zohar
Published: July 2015

The singular solution of the Laplace equation with a straight crack is represented by a series of eigenpairs, shadows, and their associated edge flux intensity functions (EFIFs). We address the computation of the EFIFs associated with the integer eigenvalues by the quasi‐dual function method (QDFM). The QDFM is based on the dual eigenpairs and shadows, and we exhibit the presence of logarithmic terms in the dual singularities associated with the integer eigenvalues. These are then used with the QDFM to extract EFIFs from p‐version finite element solutions. Numerical examples are provided. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design of TiO2@graphene nanosheets with rough surface and its reinforcement to polyarylene ether nitriles
Authors: Huang Xu , Wang Kai , Jia Kun , Liu Xiaobo
Published: July 2015

The interfacial interaction is extremely important when dealing with filler‐reinforced polymer materials. Herein, in order to improve the interfacial interaction with the polyarylene ether nitriles (PEN) matrix, a three‐dimensional rough structure was designed. First, needle‐like TiO2 nanocrystals were grown on each surface of the graphene. Morphology analysis proved that rough TiO2 nanocrystals were coated on the graphene nanosheets. Then, TiO2@graphene/PEN composites were fabricated to investigate the filler–matrix interaction. Thereafter, the different polymer chains could be interlocked by the TiO2 “needles” when the rough TiO2@graphene was embedded into the polymer resin. The surrounding PEN polymer chains (work as ropes) could tie to the “needles” (work as wood pile). That is to say, the effective polymer chain length was greatly lengthened, resulting in the improvement of interfacial interactions and mechanical properties. Most importantly, the morphology, mechanical and rheological tests of the composites also proved the improvement of interfacial interactions and mechanical properties. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Absolute continuity and singularity of Palm measures of the Ginibre point process
Authors: Osada Hirofumi , Shirai Tomoyuki
Published: July 2015

We prove a dichotomy between absolute continuity and singularity of the Ginibre point process$$\mathsf {G}$$Gand its reduced Palm measures$$\{\mathsf {G}_{\mathbf {x}}, \mathbf {x} \in \mathbb {C}^{\ell }, \ell = 0,1,2\ldots \}$${Gx,x∈Cℓ,ℓ=0,1,2…}, namely, reduced Palm measures$$\mathsf {G}_{\mathbf {x}}$$Gxand$$\mathsf {G}_{\mathbf {y}}$$Gyfor$$\mathbf {x} \in \mathbb {C}^{\ell }$$x∈Cℓand$$\mathbf {y} \in \mathbb {C}^{n}$$y∈Cnare mutually absolutely continuous if and only if$$\ell = n$$ℓ=n; they are singular each other if and only if$$\ell \not = n$$ℓ≠n. Furthermore, we give an explicit expression of the Radon–Nikodym density$$d\mathsf {G}_{\mathbf {x}}/d \mathsf {G}_{\mathbf {y}}$$dGx/dGyfor$$\mathbf {x}, \mathbf {y} \in \mathbb {C}^{\ell }$$x,y∈Cℓ.
Detection of respiratory viral and bacterial pathogens causing pediatric community‐acquired pneumonia in Beijing using real‐time PCR
Authors: Zhang Tie‐Gang , Li Ai‐Hua , Lyu Min , Chen Meng , Huang Fang , Wu Jiang
Published: July 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the etiology and prevalence of pediatric CAP in Beijing using a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique.

Methods

Between February 15, 2011 and January 18, 2012, 371 pediatric patients with CAP were enrolled at Beijing Children's Hospital. Sixteen respiratory viruses and two bacteria were detected from tracheal aspirate specimens using commercially available multiplex real‐time reverse transcription PCR (RT‐PCR) kits.

Results

A single viral pathogen was detected in 35.3% of enrolled patients, multiple viruses in 11.6%, and virus/bacteria coinfection in 17.8%. In contrast, only 6.5% of patients had a single bacterial pathogen and 2.2% were infected with multiple bacteria. The etiological agent was unknown for 26.7% of patients. The most common viruses were respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (43.9%), rhinovirus (14.8%), parainﬂuenza virus (9.4%), and adenovirus (8.6%). In patients under three years of age, RSV (44.6%), rhinovirus (12.8%), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (9.9%) were the most frequent pathogens. In children aged 3–7 years, S. pneumoniae (38.9%), RSV (30.6%), Haemophilus inﬂuenzae (19.4%), and adenovirus (19.4%) were most prevalent. Finally in children over seven years, RSV (47.3%), S. pneumoniae (41.9%), and rhinovirus (21.5%) infections were most frequent.

Conclusions

Viral pathogens, specifically RSV, were responsible for the majority of CAP in pediatric patients. However, both S. pneumoniae and H. inﬂuenzae contributed as major causes of disease. Commercially available multiplexing real‐time PCR allowed for rapid detection of the etiological agent.
Mindfulness and relaxation treatment reduce depressive symptoms in individuals with psychosis
Authors: Moritz S. , Cludius B. , Hottenrott B. , Schneider B.C. , Saathoff K. , Kuelz A.K. , Gallinat J.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Self-help is increasingly accepted for the treatment of mental disorders, including psychosis, as both a provisional first step and a way to bridge the large treatment gap. Though mindfulness-based interventions do not belong to first line treatment strategies in psychosis and randomized controlled trials are lacking, encouraging preliminary findings speak for the usefulness of this approach. For the present study, we examined whether patients with psychosis benefit from mindfulness bibliotherapy.

Methods

A sample of 90 patients with psychosis (including a subsample with a verified diagnosis of schizophrenia) took part in the study via the Internet. Following baseline assessment, participants were randomized to either a mindfulness group or a Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) control group and received the respective self-help manual including accompanying audio files. Symptom change was measured six weeks after the baseline assessment with self-rating scales including the Paranoia Checklist. The retention rate was 71%. The quality of the online dataset was confirmed by various strategies (e.g., psychosis lie scale; examination of response biases). The trial was registered at the ISRCTN registry (ISRCTN86762253).

Results

No changes across time or between groups were noted for the Paranoia Checklist. Both conditions showed a decline in depressive and obsessive-compulsive symptoms at a medium effect size (per protocol and intention to treat analyses).

Discussion/conclusion

The study provided partial support for the effectiveness of self-help mindfulness and PMR for depression in psychosis. Whether mindfulness delivered by a licensed therapist might lead to improved treatment adherence and a superior outcome relative to PMR remains to be established. The results underscore that bibliotherapy is a worthwhile approach to narrow the large treatment gap seen in psychosis.
The Effect of Yoga on Balance and Fear of Falling in Older Adults
Authors: Nick Narjes , Petramfar Peyman , Ghodsbin Fariba , Keshavarzi Sareh , Jahanbin Iran
Published: July 2015

Objective

To determine the effect of yoga on balance and fear of falling in older adults.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Jahandidegan Center in Shiraz, southern Iran.

Participants

Forty persons (17 men and 23 women) between the ages of 60‐74 years with a Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES) score <8 and a Berg Balance Scale (BBS) score <45. After completing the MFES questionnaire and BBS measurement, the participants were divided into intervention and control groups. BBS measurement and the MFES questionnaire were completed again immediately after the intervention.

Intervention

The intervention group participated in 2 yoga practice sessions per week for 8 weeks. The control group received no intervention.

Main Outcome Measurements

Fear of falling was measured with the MFES and balance was measured with the BBS.

Results

We found significant changes in both variables (P < .0001). Mean differences before and after the intervention for the BBS for yoga and control groups were 10.19 and –1.16, respectively. Mean differences before and after the intervention for the MFES for yoga and control groups were 1.62 and –0.21, respectively.

Conclusion

Yoga is a potential intervention to reduce fear of falling and improve balance in older adults.
Health Information Seeking and Technology Use Among Veterans With Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders
Authors: Hogan Timothy P. , Hill Jennifer N. , Locatelli Sara M. , Weaver Frances M. , Thomas Florian P. , Nazi Kim M. , Goldstein Barry , Smith Bridget M.
Published: July 2015

Background

Access to health information is crucial to persons living with a spinal cord injury or disorder (SCI/D). Although previous research has provided insights on computer and Internet use among persons with SCI/D, as well as how and where persons with SCI/D gather health information, few studies have focused on U.S. veterans with SCI/D.

Objective

To characterize health information seeking among veterans with SCI/D and to examine the association between technology use and the characteristics of veterans with SCI/D.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Participants

Sample of 290 veterans with SCI/D who utilize services at 2 VHA SCI/D Centers.

Methods

Postal mail survey.

Main Outcome Measurements

Extent of computer, Internet, and text messaging use, information source use, and e‐Health literacy rates.

Results

The survey response rate was 38%. The majority of respondents were male (97.2%), younger than 65 years (71.0%), and white (71.7%). Of the respondents, 64.8% indicated that they use a computer, 62.9% reported use of the Internet, and 26.2% reported use of text messaging. The mean overall e‐Health Literacy Scale score was 27.3 (standard deviation = 7.2). Similar to findings reported in studies focused outside the veteran population, the most frequent source that veterans turned to for information about SCI/D was a health professional (85.1%); this was also the most frequent source that veterans indicated they would turn to first to get information about SCI/D (75.9%). Other frequently reported sources of information included other persons with SCI/D (41.0%), Internet resources (31.0%), and family and friends (27.9%).

Conclusions

Fairly high levels of computer and Internet use exist among veterans with SCI/D. Veterans with SCI/D also have a strong preference for people—particularly health professionals, and to a lesser extent peers and family and friends—as sources of information about SCI/D. These findings highlight the importance of combining technology and human interaction to meet the information needs of this population.
Elusive Proteus: A study in the ideological morphology of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists
Authors: Gomza Ivan
Published: July 2015

This article studies the ideology of Ukrainian nationalism applying a model of “ideological morphology” to the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN). Using nationalist press and archival materials, the author analyzes core and peripheral concepts of OUN’s ideology. The findings reveal that in 1930s — early 1940s the morphological structure of OUN’s ideology was fascist. However, after 1943 some peripheral concepts came to substitute the fascist core, which led to a splinter within the OUN and subsequent democratization of the one on its factions. The study offers theoretical explanations of ideological metamorphosis applying a constructivist approach.