bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bedside, Benchtop, and Bioengineering: Physicochemical Imaging Techniques in Biomineralization
Authors: Eisenstein Neil M. , Cox Sophie C. , Williams Richard L. , Stapley Sarah A. , Grover Liam M.
Published: January 2016

The need to quantify physicochemical properties of mineralization spans many fields. Clinicians, mineralization researchers, and bone tissue bioengineers need to be able to measure the distribution, quantity, and the mechanical and chemical properties of mineralization within a wide variety of substrates from injured muscle to electrospun polymer scaffolds and everything in between. The techniques available to measure these properties are highly diverse in terms of their complexity and utility. Therefore it is of the utmost importance that those who intend to use them have a clear understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each technique and its appropriateness to their specific application. This review provides all of this information for each technique and uses heterotopic ossification and engineered bone substitutes as examples to illustrate how these techniques have been applied. In addition, we provide novel data using advanced techniques to analyze human samples of combat related heterotopic ossification.
A female newborn having mosaicism with near‐tetraploidy and trisomy 18
Authors: Wada Yuka , Kakiuchi Satsuki , Mizuguchi Koichi , Nakamura Tomoo , Ito Yushi , Sago Haruhiko , Kosaki Rika
Published: January 2016

Tetraploidy is characterized by the presence of four complete sets of chromosomes in an individual. Full tetraploidy is usually considered lethal. To date, only ten live‐births with the condition have been reported. Trisomy 18 without neonatal intensive treatment is also known to be fatal. We report a female newborn who had mosaicism with near‐tetraploidy and trisomy 18 (94,XXXX,+18,+18/47,XX,+18). She had features of conditions. The most plausible mechanism of the formation was a failure of cytoplasmic cleavage at the first division of the zygote. The longer survival of the patient compared with the 10 previously reported live‐births with non‐mosaic tetraploidy may be due to the dominance of the trisomy cells. We suggest that non‐tetraploid cells, even when trisomic for chromosome 18, might contribute to longer survival in comparison to non‐mosaic tetrapolid patients. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical and laboratory outcomes after umbilical cord blood transplantation in a patient with mucolipidosis II alpha/beta
Authors: Shibazaki Takumi , Hirabayashi Koichi , Saito Shoji , Shigemura Tomonari , Nakazawa Yozo , Sakashita Kazuo , Takagi Mineo , Shiohara Masaaki , Adachi Kaori , Nanba Eiji , Sakai Norio , Koike Kenichi
Published: January 2016

Mucolipidosis (ML) II alpha/beta is an autosomal recessive disease caused by reduced enzyme activity of N‐acetylglucosamine‐1‐phosphotransferase. Clinical symptoms of ML II are severe psychomotor delay and dysostosis multiplex; death usually occurs by 5–8 years of age from cardiopulmonary complications. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been attempted for ML; however, few reports have documented the detailed outcomes of HSCT for ML. A 26‐month‐old girl received a human leukocyte antigen 3/6‐allele‐matched transplant from cord blood. The preparative regimen consisted of fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, 6‐Gy total body irradiation, and rabbit antithymocyte globulin. Although comparing before and after cord blood transplantation results, we observed that lysosomal enzyme activities in the plasma decreased by approximately 20–40%. Low serum levels of immunoglobulin A, G2, and G4 were also observed before HSCT; however, these values normalized after transplantation. Despite undergoing HSCT, she was treated twice for bacterial pneumonia with acute respiratory distress syndrome at ages 37 and 38 months. Although HSCT effects on the clinical manifestations were limited, laboratory data including plasma lysosomal enzyme activities and serum levels of immunoglobulin showed improvement. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fabrication and structural tuning of novel composite hollow fiber membranes for pervaporation
Authors: Zhu Jia Ming , Li Ge , Jiang Lan Ying
Published: January 2016

A series of polysiloxaneimide (PSI)/polyetherimide (PEI) composite hollow fibers were fabricated by coextrusion and phase inversion. The hydrophobic PSI outer layer was set as the selective layer which was supported by the PEI inner layer. The PSI was synthesized by polycondensation of 3,3′,4,4′‐Biphenyltetracarboxylic Dianhydride (BPDA) with amino siloxane X‐22‐161A and a chain extender, 1,3‐Bis (3‐aminopropyl) −1,1,3,3‐tertramethyldisiloxane (BATS). It was found that the macroscopic uniformity of PSI layer was dependent on the dope formulation, coagulant composition and dope flow rate: (1) the higher similarity degree of the solvent(s) for different layers in terms of solubility parameters, (2) the utilization of surfactant as a component in the water coagulant, and (3) higher flow rates of the outer layer dopes, led to the formation of more uniform and smoother PSI outer layer. The maximum outer layer thickness was around 2 μm. The bulk of the PEI layers were porous with finger like macrovoids. The outer surface of the inner PEI layer for some batches of the hollow fibers was confirmed to be porous. The original dual‐layer hollow fibers showed poor pervaporation performance. Post treatment was applied to cure the hollow fiber, delivering composite membranes with performance dominated by the coating material of PDMS. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43324.
Meta‐analysis and association of two common polymorphisms of the human oxytocin receptor gene in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Kranz Thorsten M. , Kopp Marnie , Waltes Regina , Sachse Michael , Duketis Eftichia , Jarczok Tomasz A. , Degenhardt Franziska , Görgen Katharina , Meyer Jobst , Freitag Christine M. , Chiocchetti Andreas G.
Published: January 2016

Neuropeptides such as oxytocin (OXT) are known facilitators of social behavior across species. Variants of the OXT receptor gene (OXTR) have been tested for association with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across manifold ethnicities, yielding both positive and negative findings. A recent meta‐analysis, comprising 16 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), has corroborated the implication of OXTR in the etiology of ASD. Here, we genotyped and tested two additional variants (rs237889 and rs237897) for association with ASD in two German predominantly high‐functioning ASD samples. We found nominal over‐transmission (OR = 1.48, CI95 = 1.06‐2.08, P = 0.022) for the minor A allele of variant rs237889G>A in sample 1 (N = 135 complete parent‐offspring trios, 29 parent child duos), but not in sample 2 (362 trios, 69 duos). Still, in a meta‐analysis comprising four different studies including the two unreported German data sets (N = 542 families), this finding was confirmed (OR = 1.12; CI95 = 1.01–1.24, random effects P = 0.012). In addition, carriers of the minor risk allele rs237889‐A showed significantly increased severity scores, as assessed through the autism diagnostic interview – revised (ADI‐R), with highly significant increases in social interaction deficits. Our results corroborate the implication of common OXTR variants in the etiology of ASD. There is a need for functional studies to delineate the neurobiological implications of this and other association findings. (172/250). Autism Res 2016, 9: 1036–1045. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of body worlds on adult visitors’ knowledge on human anatomy: A preliminary study
Authors: Fonseca Guilherme R.B.C. , Finn Gabrielle M.
Published: January 2016

Body Worlds is an anatomical exhibition that shows human remains to the public. It has been considered controversial since it raises ethical tensions and issues. However, organizers and supporters of Body Worlds have claimed the exhibition is intended to promote visitors’ understanding over the human body. Despite these claims, no studies were found that support or refute the hypothesis that a visit to Body Worlds increases the public's objective knowledge on human anatomy. Consequently, the objective of this study was to determine the impact of Body Worlds on anatomical knowledge. We constructed and delivered a questionnaire to both a previsit random sample and a postvisit random sample of visitors of Body Worlds’ event Facets of Life, in Berlin. The questionnaire was available in both English and German languages and contained (a) basic sociodemographic questions and (b) a valid and reliable anatomy quiz. The quiz consisted of 16 multiple‐choice questions that assessed the ability to identify the location of major anatomical structures on the human body. Average scores achieved on the quiz by the postvisit sample (X¯= 9.08, s = 2.48, n = 164) were significantly higher (unpaired t = 3.3957, P = 0.0008) than those achieved by the previsit sample (X¯= 8.11, s = 2.69, n = 167). Our results suggest that a visit to Body Worlds’ event Facets of Life may have a beneficial effect in anatomical knowledge. However, further studies with better empirical designs and fewer limitations are needed to confirm our results. Clin. Anat. 29:439–445, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Composite Titanium Silicon Carbide as a Promising Catalyst Support for High‐Temperature Proton‐Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Electrodes
Authors: Lobato Justo , Zamora Hector , Plaza Jorge , Rodrigo Manuel A.
Published: January 2016

This manuscript focuses on the assessment of a composite titanium silicon carbide (SiCTiC) as a catalyst support for high‐temperature proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (HT‐PEMFCs). The support showed very high thermal and electrochemical resistances under harsh conditions (phosphoric acid). Pt nanoparticles were successfully deposited on the new SiCTiC support and it demonstrated a higher stability (lower agglomeration of the nanoparticles) than the more conventional Vulcan carbon‐based catalyst, both in a commercial formulation and as prepared in the lab, with the same procedure as that used for the novel carbide material under very harsh conditions.
Organoselenium‐Catalyzed Oxidative Ring Expansion of Methylenecyclopropanes with Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Yu Lei , Chen Fenglin , Ding Yuanhua
Published: January 2016

Catalyst screening and optimization of reaction conditions allowed control of the organoselenium‐catalyzed oxidative ring expansion of highly active methylenecyclopropanes to give substituted cyclobutanones selectively. This protocol employs H2O2 as a clean oxidant and generates no waste and, therefore, provides green access to useful, but not readily available, substituted cyclobutanones under mild conditions.
Alkyl Substitution Effect on Oxidation Stability of Sulfone‐Based Electrolytes
Authors: Su Chi‐Cheung , He Meinan , Redfern Paul , Curtiss Larry A. , Liao Chen , Zhang Lu , Burrell Anthony K. , Zhang Zhengcheng
Published: January 2016

Organic sulfone compounds have been widely used as high‐voltage electrolytes for lithium‐ion batteries for decades. However, owing to the complexity of the synthesis of new sulfones, only a few commercially available sulfones have been studied. In this paper, we report the synthesis of new sulfone compounds with various substituent groups and the impact of the substituent group on the oxidation stability of sulfones. Electrochemical floating tests using a 5 V LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 spinel cathode and density functional theory calculations showed that the cyclopentyl‐substituted sulfone McPS suffered from oxidation instability, starting from 4.9 V versus Li+/Li, as observed by the large leakage currents. On the other hand, the isopropyl‐substituted sulfone MiPS and tetramethylene substituted sulfone TMS showed much improved oxidation stability under identical testing conditions. The substitution structure of the sulfone plays a significant role in the determination of its oxidative stability and should first be considered for the development of new sulfone‐based electrolytes for high‐voltage, high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Indanes and Indenes
Authors: Gabriele Bartolo , Mancuso Raffaella , Veltri Lucia
Published: January 2016

Indanes and indenes are among the most important carbocycles. Many indane and indene derivatives have shown important pharmacological activities, and the indane and indene nuclei are structural motifs present in several natural products of biological relevance. In spite of their importance, only a few reviews on their preparation methods have appeared so far in the literature, the most recent ones being published about ten years ago. The present Review is aimed at filling this gap, presenting some of the most important and innovative approaches to indanes and indenes that have been published in the course of the last ten years (coverage: from 2005 to May, 2015).
Extending the Row of Lanthanide Tetrafluorides: A Combined Matrix‐Isolation and Quantum‐Chemical Study
Authors: Vent‐Schmidt Thomas , Fang Zongtang , Lee Zachary , Dixon David , Riedel Sebastian
Published: January 2016

Only the neutral tetrafluorides of Ce, Pr, and Tb as well as the [LnF7]3− anions of Dy and Nd, with the metal in the +IV oxidation state, have been previously reported. We report our attempts to extend the row of neutral lanthanide tetrafluorides through the reaction of laser‐ablated metal atoms with fluorine and their stabilization and characterization by matrix‐isolation IR spectroscopy. In addition to the above three tetrafluorides, we found two new tetrafluorides, 3NdF4 and 7DyF4, both of which are in the +IV oxidation state, which extends this lanthanide oxidation state to two new metals. Our experimental results are supported by quantum‐chemical calculations and the role of the lanthanide oxidation state is discussed for both the LnF4 and [LnF4]− species. Most of the LnF4 species are predicted to be in the +IV oxidation state and all of the [LnF4]− anions are predicted to be in the +III oxidation state. The LnF4 species are predicted to be strong oxidizing agents and the LnF3 species are predicted to be moderate to strong Lewis acids.
An Iron(III) Catalyst with Unusually Broad Substrate Scope in Regioselective Alkylation of Diols and Polyols
Authors: Ren Bo , Ramström Olof , Zhang Qiang , Ge Jiantao , Dong Hai
Published: January 2016

In this study, [Fe(dibm)3] (dibm=diisobutyrylmethane) is shown to have unusually broad scope as a catalyst for the selective monoalkylation of a diverse set of 1,2‐ and 1,3‐diol‐containing structures. The mechanism is proposed to proceed via a cyclic dioxolane‐type intermediate, formed between the iron(III) species and two adjacent hydroxyl groups. This approach represents the first transition‐metal catalysts that are able to replace stoichiometric amounts of organotin reagents in regioselective alkylation. The reactions generally lead to very high regioselectivities and high yields, on par with, or better than, previous methods used for regioselective alkylation.
Generation of an N→B Ladder‐type Structure by Regioselective Hydroboration of an Alkenyl‐Functionalized Quaterpyridine
Authors: Grandl Markus , Sun Yu , Pammer Frank
Published: January 2016

An unusual reactivity of 2‐(1‐alkenyl)‐pyridines towards hydroboration with 9H‐borabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane (9H‐BBN) has been employed to selectively introduce two borane groups into a conjugated quaterpyridine. Quantitative conversion of the substrate was observed with exclusive regioselectivity. A molecular structure that allows intramolecular N→B coordination was generated. The effect of the ladder formation on the molecular structure and the electronic properties of the conjugated system have been investigated. The synthetic strategy demonstrated herein offers a facile access to N→B ladder‐type structures from readily available substrates, and allows to simultaneously introduce several boron centers under mild conditions.
Chemical Immobilization of Lead, Cadmium, Copper, and Nickel in Contaminated Soils by Phosphate Amendments
Authors: Valipour Mahnoosh , Shahbazi Karim , Khanmirzaei Ali
Published: January 2016

Introducing phosphorus amendments to contaminated acid and neutral soils result in pH increment, formation of insoluble phosphorus—metals compounds and subsequent decrease in heavy metals availability. Little is known, however, on the performance of various phosphorus amendments in reducing heavy metals availability in carbonated soils. This experiment was conducted to evaluate effectiveness of two phosphorus amendments, triple superphosphate (TSP) and phosphate rock (PR), to change Pb, Cd, Ni, and Cu status in four artificially contaminated, mainly calcareous, soils. Addition of TSP substantially decreased Pb and Cd availability through the modification of the metals partitioning from non‐residual to residual forms. In contrast, Ni availability was increased in the presence of TSP amendments. PR was relatively ineffective in metals immobilization likely due to the lower activity of apatite in calcareous soils. The greenhouse experiment well indicated the effectiveness of TSP amendment for reducing Pb and Cd mobility and phytoavailability, which may contribute to the formation of minerals semi‐pyromorphite in soil and plants cell walls, but in subject of Ni, TSP may in fact have adverse effects on immobilization.
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease and mortality events in adults with type 2 diabetes — a 10‐year follow‐up: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Afsharian Sheila , Akbarpour Samaneh , Abdi Hengameh , Sheikholeslami Farhad , Moeini Ali Siamak , Khalili Davood , Momenan Amir Abbas , Azizi Fereidoun , Hadaegh Farzad
Published: January 2016

Background

To identify risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality events in patients with type 2 diabetes and to calculate their population attributable fraction among a representative Iranian population.

Methods

A total of 1198 patients with type 2 diabetes (504 men and 694 women), aged ≥30 years, without prevalent CVD, with a median follow‐up of 10 years were included in current study. To examine the association between risk factors and their outcomes, multivariate sex‐adjusted Cox proportional hazard regression models were used.

Results

During the study, 281 and 172 participants experienced CVD and all‐cause mortality events, respectively. Regarding CVD events, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) level of 7.22–<10 mmol/L [hazard ratio (HR): 1.46, 95% CI 1.12–1.96], FPG level ≥10 mmol/L (HR 2.04, 1.53–2.72), hypertension (HR 1.65, 1.28–2.13), hypercholesterolaemia (HR 1.96, 1.40–2.75) and high waist to hip ratio (HR 1.30, 0.99–1.70; p = 0.051) were significant predictors, and corresponding population attributable fractions were 9.76, 17.84, 23.26, 41.63 and 14.76%, respectively. Considering all‐cause mortality events, hypertension (HR 1.70, 1.23–2.36), FPG level ≥10 mmol/L (HR 2.31, 1.55–3.20) and smoking (HR 1.45, 1.03–2.04) were significant predictors, and corresponding population attributable fractions were 25.81, 20.88 and 11.18%, respectively. Meanwhile, being overweight or obese was associated with lower all‐cause and CVD mortality events.

Conclusions

Among modifiable risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes, hypercholesterolaemia and central adiposity for CVD, smoking for mortality events and hypertension and poor glycaemic control for both outcomes need to be paid most attention by healthcare professionals. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dominant male song performance reflects current immune state in a cooperatively breeding songbird
Authors: York Jenny E. , Radford Andrew N. , Groothuis Ton G. , Young Andrew J.
Published: January 2016

Conspicuous displays are thought to have evolved as signals of individual “quality”, though precisely what they encode remains a focus of debate. While high quality signals may be produced by high quality individuals due to “good genes” or favourable early‐life conditions, whether current immune state also impacts signalling performance remains poorly understood, particularly in social species. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that male song performance is impaired by immune system activation in the cooperatively breeding white‐browed sparrow weaver (Plocepasser mahali). We experimentally activated the immune system of free‐living dominant males via subcutaneous injection of phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and contrasted its effects with those of a control (phosphate buffered saline) injection. PHA‐challenged males showed significant reductions in both the duration and the rate of their song performance, relative to controls, and this could not be readily attributed to effects of the challenge on body mass, as no such effects were detected. Furthermore, male song performance prior to immune‐challenge predicted the scale of the inflammatory response to the challenge. Our findings suggest that song performance characteristics are impacted by current immune state. This link between current state and signal performance might therefore contribute to enforcing the honesty of signal performance characteristics. Impacts of current state on signaling may be of particular importance in social species, where subordinates may benefit from an ability to identify and subsequently challenge same‐sex dominants in a weakened state.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor‐driven signals inhibit collagen synthesis in the gut
Authors: Monteleone Ivan , Zorzi Francesca , Marafini Irene , Di Fusco Davide , Dinallo Vincenzo , Caruso Roberta , Izzo Roberta , Franzè Eleonora , Colantoni Alfredo , Pallone Francesco , Monteleone Giovanni
Published: January 2016

Fibrostrictures (FS) are a major complication of Crohn's disease (CD). Pathogenesis of FS is not fully understood, but activation of fibroblasts and excessive collagen deposition are crucial in the development of FS. Here, we investigated the role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in intestinal fibrosis. AhR RNA and protein expression were evaluated in intestinal fibroblasts of CD patients and controls. CD fibroblasts were stimulated with TGF‐β1 or TNF‐α in the presence or absence of the AhR activator Ficz, an AhR antagonist CH223191, or a specific AhR‐silencing RNA. In CD fibroblasts, TGF‐β1 and TNF‐α increased Col1A1, Col3A1 and α‐SMA transcripts and collagen secretion and this effect was reduced by Ficz and upregulated by CH22319. TGF‐β1 or TNF‐α induced activation of p38 and ERK1/2 MAP kinases was decreased by Ficz and increased by CH223191. The inhibitory effect of Ficz on Map kinase activation and collagen induction was abolished by AhR silencing. To assess the role of AhR in vivo, mice with trinitrobenzene‐sulfonic‐acid induced colonic fibrosis were given Ficz or CH223191. Mice given either Ficz or CH223191 produced less or more collagen respectively as compared with control mice. Our results indicate that AhR is a negative regulator of profibrotic signals in the gut.
Carrageenan‐induced inflammation promotes ROS generation and neutrophil extracellular trap formation in a mouse model of peritonitis
Authors: Barth Cristiane R. , Funchal Giselle A. , Luft Carolina , de Oliveira Jarbas R. , Porto Bárbara N. , Donadio Márcio V. F.
Published: January 2016

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are a combination of DNA fibers and granular proteins, such as neutrophil elastase (NE). NETs are released in the extracellular space in response to different stimuli. Carrageenan is a sulfated polysaccharide extracted from Chondrus crispus, a marine algae, used for decades in research for its potential to induce inflammation in different animal models. In this study, we show for the first time that carrageenan injection can induce NET release in a mouse model of acute peritonitis. Carrageenan induced NET release by viable neutrophils with NE and myeloperoxidase (MPO) expressed on DNA fibers. Furthermore, although this polysaccharide was able to stimulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by peritoneal neutrophils, NADPH oxidase derived ROS were dispensable for NET formation by carrageenan. In conclusion, our results show that carrageenan‐induced inflammation in the peritoneum of mice can induce NET formation in an ROS‐independent manner. These results may add important information to the field of inflammation and potentially lead to novel anti‐inflammatory agents targeting the production of NETs.
OSCAR‐collagen signaling in monocytes plays a proinflammatory role and may contribute to the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Schultz Heidi S. , Guo Li , Keller Pernille , Fleetwood Andrew J. , Sun Mingyi , Guo Wei , Ma Chunyan , Hamilton John A. , Bjørkdahl Olle , Berchtold Martin W. , Panina Svetlana
Published: January 2016

Osteoclast‐associated receptor (OSCAR) is an activating receptor expressed by human myeloid cells. Collagen type I (ColI) and collagen type II (ColII) serve as ligands for OSCAR. OSCAR‐collagen interaction stimulates RANK‐dependent osteoclastogenesis. We have recently reported that OSCAR promotes functional maturation of monocyte‐derived dendritic cells. OSCAR is upregulated on monocytes from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with active disease, and these monocytes show an increased proosteoclastogenic potential. In the current study, we have addressed a functional role for an OSCAR–collagen interaction on monocytes. We show that OSCAR‐ColII signaling promoted the survival of monocytes. Moreover, ColII stimulated the release of proinflammatory cytokines by monocytes from healthy donors, which could be completely blocked by an anti‐OSCAR monoclonal antibody. Mononuclear cells from the synovial fluid of RA patients plated on ColII secreted TNF‐α and IL‐8 in an OSCAR‐dependent manner. Global RNA profiling showed that components of multiple signaling pathways relevant to RA pathogenesis are regulated at the transcriptional level by OSCAR in monocytes. Thus, OSCAR can play a proinflammatory role in monocyte‐derived cells and may contribute crucially on multiple levels to RA pathogenesis.
Bifidobacterially produced, C18:3 and C18:4 conjugated fatty acids exhibit in vitro anti‐carcinogenic and anti‐microbial activity
Authors: Hennessy Alan A. , Ross Paul , Devery Rosaleen , Stanton Catherine
Published: January 2016

Conjugated fatty acid (CFA)s have shown a range of in vitro and in vivo bioactivities prompting increased endeavours both to identify novel sources and to characterize their properties. Strains of bifidobacteria possess the capacity to produce a range of CFAs including conjugated α‐linolenic acid (CLNA), conjugated γ‐linolenic acid (CGLA), and conjugated stearidonic acid (CSA), and in the current study these CFA were assessed for anti‐proliferative activity using the SW480 colon cancer cell line. Additionally, these fatty acids were also assessed for inhibitory activity against select gastro‐intestinal pathogens and potential probiotic CFA producers. The results demonstrated that the CFA displayed greater inhibitory activity against the SW480 cells than a normal fetal human colonic cell line (FHC), suggesting selective anti‐proliferative potential in vitro. Studies into the mechanism behind this inhibitory activity indicated potential roles for increased cellular lipid peroxidation, altered cellular phospholipid composition, and reductions in the cellular content of Bcl‐2. Microbiological studies also demonstrated that the CFA displayed inhibitory activity against selected pathogens, while CFA producing bifodobacteria remained unaffected. CFAs were particularly effective in the inhibition of the methicillin resistant strain Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 43300.

Practical applications: We have demonstrated that bifidobacterially produced C18:3 and C18:4 CFAs may have potential in the control of colon cancer. Additionally, their inhibitory properties against common gastrointestinal pathogens (particularly the methicillin resistant strain S. aureus ATCC 43300) and not potential probiotic CFA producing bifidobacteria may indicate further therapeutic potential or a metabolic process that gives CFA producing microbes a competitive advantage in the complex environment that is the gastrointestinal tract.

Strains of bifidobacteria such as Bifidobacterium breve DPC 6330 possess the capacity to bioconvert α‐linolenic, γ‐linolenic, and stearidonic acids to their conjugated derivatives under fermentative conditions. In vitro bioassays have indicated that these conjugated derivatives possess anti‐microbial activity, particularly against microbial pathogens including Staphyloccus aureus, and anti‐carcinogenic properties against colonic cancer cell lines such as SW480.
Lead (II) adsorption from aqueous solutions onto modified ag nanoparticles: Modeling and optimization
Authors: Hosseini S.J. , Aghaie H. , Ghaedi M. , Dashtian K. , Purkait M.K.
Published: January 2016

Silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) were synthesized viz. a green method in the presence of trisodium citrate as reducing agent and L‐cysteine as acceptor and capping agent for removal of Pb2+ ion. Central composite design (CCD) under response surface methodology (RSM) was applied for simultaneous optimization of the importance variables for synthesis of Ag‐NPs and its applicability for Pb2+ ion removal. The effects of the variables, such as pH, amount of reagent (such as L‐cysteine concentration) and contact time on the Pb2+ ion removal and subsequent elution steps were efficiently examined. The maximum of Pb2+ ion removal was obtained while concentration of sodium citrate, silver nitrate, lead nitrate and L‐cysteine was 0.05 M, 0.005 M, 27.78 mg L−1 and 0.25 M, respectively. The optimized resulting of Ag‐NP were applicable for removal of a large content of Pb2+ ion (105.4 mg g−1) from samples with high Pb2+ ion concentration in short reasonable time. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 743–749, 2016
Phytoremediation potential of chromium and lead by Alnus acuminata subsp. acuminata
Authors: Escobar María Paula , Dussán Jenny
Published: January 2016

Metals are non‐biodegradable pollutants, with high environmental persistence that have great toxic effects for the environment and humans. Lead and chromium can be found in the banks of rivers contaminated by domestic and industrial discharges. A number of plants are able to remove metals from the ground and accumulate them in their inner tissues without producing phytotoxic effects. Alnus acuminata ssp. acuminata is a native tree species that can be found on the banks of the contaminated Bogota River and whose phytoremediation capacity for Pb and Cr is unknown. In the study, tree seedlings were irrigated with water from the upper, middle, and lower basin of the river for 4 months. Metal accumulation was measured in the roots, stem, leaves, and soil, and plant parameters such as height, number of leaves, and chlorophyll percentage were recorded. Pb was mainly accumulated in roots (135 mg/kg from upper basin treatment), whereas Cr was found in stems (71 mg/kg). There were no significant differences between treatment and control for any of the three parameters, meaning no toxicity effects were found. Therefore, A. acuminata ssp. acuminata is suggested as a suitable tree for metal phytoremediation along the banks of polluted rivers. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 942–948, 2016
The Author Replies
Authors: Gambino Matthew
Published: January 2016

A response to “Fever of the Tuskegee Study,” by Robert White.
Single‐cell profiling approaches to probing tumor heterogeneity
Authors: Khoo Bee Luan , Chaudhuri Parthiv Kant , Ramalingam Naveen , Tan Daniel Shao Weng , Lim Chwee Teck , Warkiani Majid Ebrahimi
Published: January 2016

Tumor heterogeneity is a major hindrance in cancer classification, diagnosis and treatment. Recent technological advances have begun to reveal the true extent of its heterogeneity. Single‐cell analysis (SCA) is emerging as an important approach to detect variations in morphology, genetic or proteomic expression. In this review, we revisit the issue of inter‐ and intra‐tumor heterogeneity, and list various modes of SCA techniques (cell‐based, nucleic acid‐based, protein‐based, metabolite‐based and lipid‐based) presently used for cancer characterization. We further discuss the advantages of SCA over pooled cell analysis, as well as the limitations of conventional techniques. Emerging trends, such as high‐throughput sequencing, are also mentioned as improved means for cancer profiling. Collectively, these applications have the potential for breakthroughs in cancer treatment.
Maximizing Production and Irrigation Water Productivity of Canola Crop (Brassica Napus L.) Under Arid Land Conditions
Authors: Ismail Saleh M.
Published: January 2016

A field experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Experimental Research Station of King Abdulaziz University to study the effect of irrigation level, row spacing and inter‐row spacing on productivity and irrigation water productivity (IWP) of Canola. Two irrigation levels, IFull (100% of field capacity) and Imin (65% of IFull), were investigated. Three row spacing, S1, S2 and S3, represented by 20, 40 and 60 cm between rows were studied under each irrigation level. Three inter‐row spacing, IRS1, IRS2 and IRS3, represented by 5, 10 and 20 cm between plants, were investigated for each row spacing. Results indicated that Imin reduced seed yield per plant, total seed yield and oil percentage but increased IWP. Decreasing row and inter‐row spacing decreased seed yield per plant but increased total seed yield and IWP. The highest oil percentage (36.1%) was obtained from S2 during both growing seasons. The triple interaction optimized total seed yield, IWP and oil production. The best combination was IFull–S1–IRS2 with average production of 8430 kg ha−1 seed yield which is expected to produce 2990 kg of oil, followed by Imin–S1–IRS1 which produced 6750 kg ha−1seed yield with about 2270 kg ha−1of oil. Application of this combination saves 35% of water but reduces oil production by 24%. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proton solvation in protic and aprotic solvents
Authors: Rossini Emanuele , Knapp Ernst‐Walter
Published: January 2016

Protonation pattern strongly affects the properties of molecular systems. To determine protonation equilibria, proton solvation free energy, which is a central quantity in solution chemistry, needs to be known. In this study, proton affinities (PAs), electrostatic energies of solvation, and pKA values were computed in protic and aprotic solvents. The proton solvation energy in acetonitrile (MeCN), methanol (MeOH), water, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was determined from computed and measured pKA values for a specially selected set of organic compounds. pKA values were computed with high accuracy using a combination of quantum chemical and electrostatic approaches. Quantum chemical density functional theory computations were performed evaluating PA in the gas‐phase. The electrostatic contributions of solvation were computed solving the Poisson equation. The computations yield proton solvation free energies with high accuracy, which are in MeCN, MeOH, water, and DMSO −255.1, −265.9, −266.3, and −266.4 kcal/mol, respectively, where the value for water is close to the consensus value of −265.9 kcal/mol. The pKA values of MeCN, MeOH, and DMSO in water correlates well with the corresponding proton solvation energies in these liquids, indicating that the solvated proton was attached to a single solvent molecule. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Image distortion correction for micromanipulation system based on SLM microscopic vision
Authors: Wang Yuezong , Jin Yan , Wang Lika
Published: January 2016

Stereo light microscope (SLM) simulates stereo imaging principle of human eyes. Microscopic vision system based on SLM has become an important visual tool for micro measurement, micromanipulation, and microinjection. We develop a micromanipulation system based on SLM and present an image distortion correction method. We mainly correct two kinds of image distortions: lateral and vertical distortion. Distortion correction consists of two steps. First, a linear fitting algorithm for each row or column of target points is developed, and the fitting errors are calculated. If the fitting errors are smaller than a given threshold, the linear fitting results are kept and used. Otherwise polynomial fitting procedure will be used. Second, the parallelism of straight lines is corrected. The results show that a line in world coordinate frame (WCF) is not necessarily a straight line in image coordinate frame (ICF), or two parallel lines in WCF may be not parallel in ICF. Distortion correction can restore the parallel and linear relationship. For distorted left and right images, the magnitude of distortion exceeds 6 pixels and 4 pixels in the horizontal direction, and 1.2 pixels and 1.7 pixels in the vertical direction, respectively. After corrected, for left and right image, distortion can be reduced to 0.8 pixels and 0.7 pixels in the horizontal direction, and 0.96 pixels and 1.3 pixels in the vertical direction, respectively. The results show that distortion parameters obtained from the proposed method can effectively correct distorted images. Microsc. Res. Tech. 79:162–177, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new year, new opportunities for growth
Authors: Gaffey Ann D.
Published: January 2016

Reflecting back on my 20 years in risk management, I wonder at times how I got this far. In my first risk position, to my great fortune, my boss Melinda felt it important that I attend the American Society for Healthcare Risk Management (ASHRM) Annual Conference. Flying out of San Francisco in 1996 after the conference ended, I was in awe of the wealth of information available to me through this venue. I was grateful for those in our industry willing to share their expertise and engage me in conversation at an event where I didn't know a soul. I was hooked, and have missed just a few Annual Conferences since then.
Compressed sensing cine imaging with high spatial or high temporal resolution for analysis of left ventricular function
Authors: Goebel Juliane , Nensa Felix , Schemuth Haemi P. , Maderwald Stefan , Gratz Marcel , Quick Harald H. , Schlosser Thomas , Nassenstein Kai
Published: January 2016

Purpose

To assess two compressed sensing cine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences with high spatial or high temporal resolution in comparison to a reference steady‐state free precession cine (SSFP) sequence for reliable quantification of left ventricular (LV) volumes.

Materials and Methods

LV short axis stacks of two compressed sensing breath‐hold cine sequences with high spatial resolution (SPARSE‐SENSE HS: temporal resolution: 40 msec, in‐plane resolution: 1.0 × 1.0 mm2) and high temporal resolution (SPARSE‐SENSE HT: temporal resolution: 11 msec, in‐plane resolution: 1.7 × 1.7 mm2) and of a reference cine SSFP sequence (standard SSFP: temporal resolution: 40 msec, in‐plane resolution: 1.7 × 1.7 mm2) were acquired in 16 healthy volunteers on a 1.5T MR system. LV parameters were analyzed semiautomatically twice by one reader and once by a second reader. The volumetric agreement between sequences was analyzed using paired t‐test, Bland–Altman plots, and Passing–Bablock regression.

Results

Small differences were observed between standard SSFP and SPARSE‐SENSE HS for stroke volume (SV; −7 ± 11 ml; P = 0.024), ejection fraction (EF; −2 ± 3%; P = 0.019), and myocardial mass (9 ± 9 g; P = 0.001), but not for end‐diastolic volume (EDV; P = 0.079) and end‐systolic volume (ESV; P = 0.266). No significant differences were observed between standard SSFP and SPARSE‐SENSE HT regarding EDV (P = 0.956), SV (P = 0.088), and EF (P = 0.103), but for ESV (3 ± 5 ml; P = 0.039) and myocardial mass (8 ± 10 ml; P = 0.007). Bland–Altman analysis showed good agreement between the sequences (maximum bias ≤ −8%).

Conclusion

Two compressed sensing cine sequences, one with high spatial resolution and one with high temporal resolution, showed good agreement with standard SSFP for LV volume assessment. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:366–374.
Rewarding reviewers – sense or sensibility? A Wiley study explained
Authors: Warne Verity
Published: January 2016

In July 2015, Wiley surveyed over 170,000 researchers in order to explore peer reviewing experience; attitudes towards recognition and reward for reviewers; and training requirements. The survey received 2,982 usable responses (a response rate of 1.7%). Respondents from all markets indicated similar levels of review activity. However, analysis of reviewer and corresponding author data suggests that US researchers in fact bear a disproportionate burden of review, while Chinese authors publish twice as much as they review. Results show that while reviewers choose to review in order to give back to the community, there is more perceived benefit in interacting with the community of a top‐ranking journal than a low‐ranking one. The majority of peer review training received by respondents has come either in the form of journal guidelines or informally as advice from supervisors or colleagues. Seventy‐seven per cent show an interest in receiving further reviewer training. Reviewers strongly believe that reviewing is inadequately acknowledged at present and should carry more weight in their institutions' evaluation process. Respondents value recognition initiatives related to receiving feedback from the journal over monetary rewards and payment in kind. Questions raised include how to evenly expand the reviewer pool, provide training throughout the researcher career arc, and deliver consistent evaluation and recognition for reviewers.
Effect of damaging exercise on electromechanical delay
Authors: Lacourpaille Lilian , Nordez Antoine , Doguet Valentin , Hug FranÇois , Guilhem GaËL
Published: January 2016

Introduction

In this study we aimed to quantify the effect of exercise‐induced muscle damage on both the electrochemical and mechanical components of electromechanical delay using very‐high‐frame‐rate ultrasound.

Methods

Fifteen participants underwent electrically evoked contractions of the medial gastrocnemius muscle with an ultrasound transducer on the muscle belly and on the myotendinous junction, before, 1 hour, and 48 hours after eccentric exercise of the plantar flexor muscles.

Results

Maximal isometric plantar flexor torque was significantly lower at 1 hour (–41.1 ± 14.9%; P = 0.0001) and 48 hours (–11.9 ± 14.9%; P = 0.038) post‐exercise compared with pre‐exercise. However, the delay between electrical stimulation and the onset of muscle activation, the delay between electrical stimulation and myotendinous junction motion, and the electromechanical delay were not altered significantly by eccentric exercise (P = 0.063).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that moderate muscle damage does not affect the time for the electrochemical or mechanical components of electromechanical delay. Muscle Nerve 54: 136–141, 2016
Distribution Of fasciculations in healthy adults after exercise: An ultrasound study
Authors: Czell David , Goldman Beatrice , Weber Markus
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Ultrasound has become a reliable method to detect fasciculations. There is disagreement as to whether fasciculations above the knee should raise the suspicion of a disorder even if there are no other signs of lower motor neuron abnormality. Methods: Using ultrasonography, 3 arm and 3 leg muscles were investigated for 120 s, 45 min after 90‐min handball training or a 5,000 meter run in a group of 25 men and 25 women handball players and 7 men who are amateur runners. Results: All athletes had fasciculations in muscles above the knee. There were no fasciculations in the upper limb muscles in the runner group. In 21 men and 18 women handball players between 1 to 17 fasciculations in 2 min were detected. The number of fasciculations in the rectus femoris was 4‐fold higher in the runners compared with the handball players (ratio 0.24; P = 0.037). Conclusions: Fasciculations may occur in muscles above the knee in healthy subjects. The distribution of fasciculations primarily depends on the exercised muscles. Muscle Nerve, 2016 Muscle Nerve 54: 132–135, 2016 Muscle Nerve 54: 132–135, 2016
Impact of genetic variation on synaptic protein levels in genetically diverse mice
Authors: Loos Maarten , Li Ka Wan , van der Schors Roel , Gouwenberg Yvonne , van der Loo Rolinka , Williams Robert W. , Smit August B. , Spijker Sabine
Published: January 2016

The relative abundance of synaptic proteins shapes protein complex formation and is essential for synapse function and behavioral fitness. Here, we have used a panel of highly diverse inbred strains of mice—NOD/LtJ, A/J, 129S1/SvImJ, FVB/NJ, C57BL/6J, WSB/EiJ, PWK/PhJ, and CAST/EiJ—to quantify the effects of genetic variation on the synaptic proteome between strains. Using iTRAQ‐based quantitative proteome analyses, we detected significant differences in ∼20% of 400 core synaptic proteins. Surprisingly, the differentially abundant proteins showed a modest range of variation across strains, averaging about 1.3‐fold. Analysis of protein abundance covariation across the eight strains identified known protein–protein relations (proteins of Arp2/3 complex), as well as novel relations (e.g. Dlg family, Fscn1). Moreover, covariation of synaptic proteins was substantially tighter (∼fourfold more dense than chance level) than corresponding networks of synaptic transcripts (∼twofold more dense than chance). The tight stoichiometry and coherent synaptic protein covariation networks suggest more intense evolutionary selection at this level of molecular organization. In conclusion, genetic diversity in the mouse genome differentially affects the transcriptome and proteome, and only partially penetrates the synaptic proteome. Protein abundance correlation analyses in genetically divergent strains can complement protein–protein interaction network analyses, to provide insight into protein interactomes.
Biocompatible stimuli‐responsive nanogels for controlled antitumor drug delivery
Authors: Aguirre Garbiñe , Villar‐Alvarez Eva , González Adrián , Ramos Jose , Taboada Pablo , Forcada Jacqueline
Published: January 2016

Herein, the synthesis and potential application as cargo delivery systems of thermo‐responsive poly(N‐vinylcaprolactam) (PVCL)‐based, pH‐responsive poly(2‐(diethylamino)ethyl) methacrylate (PDEAEMA)‐based, and thermo‐, and pH‐responsive PDEAEMA/PVCL‐based core–shell nanogels are reported. All the nanogels have been synthesized using different dextran‐methacrylates (Dex‐MAs) as macro‐cross‐linkers. Doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOXO), an anticancer drug, has been effectively loaded into nanogels via hydrogen‐bonding interactions between OH groups of DOXO and OH groups of Dex‐MA chains. Drug‐release profiles at various pHs, and the cytocompatibility of the DOXO‐loaded nanogels have been assessed in vitro using cervical cancer HeLa and breast cancer MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines. In all the cases, the DOXO release is controlled by Fickian diffusion and case‐II transport, being the diffusional process dominant. In addition, DOXO‐loaded nanogels are efficiently internalized by HeLa and MDA‐MB‐231 cells and DOXO is progressively released in time. Therefore, nanogels synthesized could be suitable and potentially useful as nanocarriers for antitumor drug delivery. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 1694–1705