bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Video Image Size Interacts with Evidence Strength, Defendant Emotion, and the Defendant–Victim Relationship to Alter Perceptions of the Defendant
Authors: Heath Wendy P. , Grannemann Bruce D.
Published: April 2014

Courtroom video presentations can range from images on small screens installed in the jury box to images on courtroom video monitors or projection screens. Does video image size affect jurors' perceptions of information presented during trials? To investigate this we manipulated video image size as well as defendant emotion level presented during testimony (low, moderate), the defendant–victim relationship (spouses, strangers), and the strength of the evidence (weak, strong). Participants (N = 263) read a case and trial summary, watched video of defendant testimony, and then answered a questionnaire. Larger screens generally accentuated what was presented (e.g., made stronger evidence seem stronger and weaker evidence seem weaker), acting mainly upon trial outcome variables (e.g., verdict). Non‐trial outcomes (e.g., defendant credibility) were generally affected by defendant emotion level and the defendant–victim relationship. Researchers and attorneys presenting video images need to recognize that respondents may evaluate videotaped trial evidence differently as a function of how video evidence is presented. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pretreatment vitamin D level and response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in women with breast cancer on the I‐SPY trial (CALGB 150007/150015/ACRIN6657)
Authors: Clark Amy S. , Chen Jinbo , Kapoor Shiv , Friedman Claire , Mies Carolyn , Esserman Laura , DeMichele Angela ,   I‐SPY1 Investigators
Published: April 2014

Laboratory studies suggest that vitamin D (vitD) enhances chemotherapy‐induced cell death. The objective of this study was to determine whether pretreatment vitD levels were associated with response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in women with breast cancer. Study patients (n = 82) were enrolled on the I‐SPY TRIAL, had HER2‐negative tumors, and available pretreatment serum. VitD levels were measured via DiaSorin radioimmunoassay. The primary outcome was pathologic residual cancer burden (RCB; dichotomized 0/1 vs. 2/3). Secondary outcomes included biomarkers of proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis (Ki67, grade, Bcl2, respectively) and 3‐year relapse‐free survival (RFS). Mean and median vitD values were 22.7 ng/mL (SD 11.9) and 23.1 ng/mL, respectively; 72% of patients had levels deemed “insufficient” (<30 ng/mL) by the Institute of Medicine (IOM). VitD level was not associated with attaining RCB 0/1 after NACT (univariate odds ratio [OR], 1.01; 95% CI, 0.96–1.05) even after adjustment for hormone receptor status (HR), grade, Ki67, or body mass index (BMI). Lower vitD levels were associated with higher tumor Ki67 adjusting for race (OR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.90–0.99). VitD level was not associated with 3‐year RFS, either alone (hazard ratio [HzR], 0.98; 95% CI, 0.95–1.02) or after adjustment for HR, grade, Ki‐67, BMI, or response. VitD insufficiency was common at the time of breast cancer diagnosis among women who were candidates for NACT and was associated with a more proliferative phenotype. However, vitD levels had no impact on tumor response to NACT or short‐term prognosis.
Cellular Scent of Influenza Virus Infection.
Authors: Aksenov Alexander A. , Sandrock Christian E. , Zhao Weixiang , Sankaran Shankar , Schivo Michael , Harper Richart , Cardona Carol J. , Xing Zheng , Davis Cristina E.
Published: April 2014

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emanating from humans have the potential to revolutionize non‐invasive diagnostics. Yet, little is known about how these compounds are generated by complex biological systems, and even less is known about how these compounds are reflective of a particular physiological state. In this proof‐of‐concept study, we examined VOCs produced directly at the cellular level from B lymphoblastoid cells upon infection with three live influenza virus subtypes: H9N2 (avian), H6N2 (avian), and H1N1 (human). Using a single cell line helped to alleviate some of the complexity and variability when studying VOC production by an entire organism, and it allowed us to discern marked differences in VOC production upon infection of the cells. The patterns of VOCs produced in response to infection were unique for each virus subtype, while several other non‐specific VOCs were produced after infections with all three strains. Also, there was a specific time course of VOC release post infection. Among emitted VOCs, production of esters and other oxygenated compounds was particularly notable, and these may be attributed to increased oxidative stress resulting from infection. Elucidating VOC signatures that result from the host cells response to infection may yield an avenue for non‐invasive diagnostics and therapy of influenza and other viral infections.
Rational Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Modular Fluorogenic Substrates with High Affinity and Selectivity for PTP1B
Authors: Sanchini Silvano , Perruccio Francesca , Piizzi Grazia
Published: April 2014

Protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is a key regulatory enzyme in several signal transduction pathways, and its upregulation has been associated with type‐2 diabetes, obesity and cancer. Selective determination of the functional significance of PTP1B remains a major challenge because the activity of this crucial enzyme is currently evaluated through the use of fluorescent probes that lack selectivity and are limited to biochemical assays. Here we describe the rational design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new modular PTP1B fluorogenic substrates. The self‐immolative 4‐hydroxybenzyl alcohol has been used as a key component for the design of phosphotyrosine mimics linked to a latent chromophore, which is released through an enzyme‐initiated domino reaction. Preliminary biological investigations showed that, by optimising the stereoelectronic properties and the binding interactions at the enzyme active site, it is possible to achieve substrates with high affinity and promising selectivity. Due to their modular nature, the synthesised fluorogenic probes represent versatile tools; customisation of the different subunits could widen the scope of these probes to a broader range of in vitro assays. Finally, these studies elucidate the critical role played by Asp181 in the PTP1B‐catalysed dephosphorylation mechanism: disruption of the native conformation of this key amino acid residue on the WDP loop yields fluorogenic inhibitors, rather than substrates. For this reason, our studies also represent a step forward for the development of improved PTP1B noncovalent inhibitors.
Supramolecular Systems in Biomedical Fields. Edited by Hans‐Jörg Schneider.
Authors: Brunsveld Luc
Published: April 2014

RSC, Cambridge 2013, XVI+531 pp., hardcover, £ 159.99.—ISBN 978‐1‐84973‐658‐9
Utility of Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography as Part of the Pre‐Liver Transplant Evaluation: An Evaluation of Its Efficacy
Authors: Snipelisky David , Levy Michael , Shapiro Brian
Published: April 2014

Background

Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) is commonly used to risk stratify patients in the cardiac evaluation prior to orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Data remain limited regarding the accuracy to predict obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) using this approach.

Hypothesis

We hypothesize that DSE may have limitations in the investigation of underlying CAD in patients with end‐stage liver disease.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent OLT at Mayo Clinic in Florida between 1998 and 2010 was performed. Sixty‐six underwent invasive coronary angiography (ICA) within 1 year of DSE and were included in our study. Based on DSE results, patients were stratified into 1 of 3 groups: nonischemic, ischemic, and indeterminate. The relationship between DSE, ICA, and death from all cause and cardiac‐related cause with a minimum 3‐year follow‐up period were analyzed.

Results

A total of 66 patients were included in our cohort. There was no difference in age, gender, severity of liver disease, and echocardiographic findings among the groups. Forty‐three percent of patients (n = 12) with an abnormal result on DSE were found to have moderate or severe obstructive CAD on cardiac catheterization, whereas 49% of patients (n = 17) with a normal finding on DSE had moderate or severe CAD. Of 5 patients who died from a documented cardiac etiology, 3 had normal stress test results, 1 had abnormal findings, and 1 had an indeterminate DSE result. When compared with ICA, our study demonstrated that DSE has a sensitivity of 41.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.24‐0.61), specificity of 47.1% (95% CI: 0.30‐0.65), positive predictive value of 40.0% (95% CI: 0.23‐0.59), and negative predictive value of 48.0% (95% CI: 0.31‐0.66) in identification of underlying CAD.

Conclusions

Although widely used, DSE may not always accurately reflect the severity of obstructive CAD in patients undergoing OLT.
Does Low Vitamin D Amplify the Association of COPD With Total and Cardiovascular Disease Mortality?
Authors: Lee Hwa Mu , Liu Michael , Lee Katherine , Luo Yanting , Wong Nathan D.
Published: April 2014

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been shown to be associated with lower levels of vitamin D, and the latter has been associated with total and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that lower vitamin D levels will further enhance the association of COPD and its severity with total and CVD mortality.

Methods

We studied 7746 US adults age ≥40 years without known CVD (mean age, 59.8 years) and followed up through 2006 (8.2 ± 2.5 years) for total and CVD mortality. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels were categorized as tertiles: first tertile, <50.9 nm/L; second tertile, 50.9 to 73.6 nm/L; and third tertile, >73.6 nm/L. Severity of COPD was classified on the basis of forced expiratory volume per second (FEV1): mild COPD (FEV1 ≥80%) and moderate or severe COPD (FEV1 <80%), and requires a FEV1/forced vital capacity ratio <70%. With Cox regression, we examined the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for total and CVD mortality according to COPD/vitamin D category, using those with no COPD in the first tertile of vitamin D as the reference group.

Results

From Cox regression, unadjusted HRs increased successively with increasing COPD severity and decreasing vitamin D group to 4.5 (95% CI: 3.3‐6.1) for total and 3.4 (95% CI: 2.2‐5.3) for CVD mortality among those with moderate/severe COPD who were in the first tertile of vitamin D. After adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity, and other risk factors, these associations were attenuated but remained increased.

Conclusions

Lower levels of vitamin D may be associated with further increases in total and CVD mortality associated with COPD; however, age and cardiovascular risk factors appear to explain much of this association.
GABAergic and glutamatergic efferents of the mouse ventral tegmental area
Authors: Taylor Seth R. , Badurek Sylvia , Dileone Ralph J. , Nashmi Raad , Minichiello Liliana , Picciotto Marina R.
Published: April 2014

The role of dopaminergic (DA) projections from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in appetitive and rewarding behavior has been widely studied, but the VTA also has documented DA‐independent functions. Several drugs of abuse, act on VTA GABAergic neurons, and most studies have focused on local inhibitory connections. Relatively little is known about VTA GABA projection neurons and their connections to brain sites outside the VTA. This study employed viral‐vector‐mediated cell‐type‐specific anterograde tracing, classical retrograde tracing, and immunohistochemistry to characterize VTA GABA efferents throughout the brain. We found that VTA GABA neurons project widely to forebrain and brainstem targets, including the ventral pallidum, lateral and magnocellular preoptic nuclei, lateral hypothalamus, and lateral habenula. Minor projections also go to central amygdala, mediodorsal thalamus, dorsal raphe, and deep mesencephalic nuclei, and sparse projections go to prefrontal cortical regions and to nucleus accumbens shell and core. These projections differ from the major VTA DA target regions. Retrograde tracing studies confirmed results from the anterograde experiments and differences in projections from VTA subnuclei. Retrogradely labeled GABA neurons were not numerous, and most non‐tyrosine hydroxylase/retrogradely labeled cells lacked GABAergic markers. Many non‐TH/retrogradely labeled cells projecting to several areas expressed VGluT2. VTA GABA and glutamate neurons project throughout the brain, most prominently to regions with reciprocal connections to the VTA. These data indicate that VTA GABA and glutamate neurons may have more DA‐independent functions than previously recognized. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:3308–3334, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Induction of early neural precursors and derivation of tripotent neural stem cells from human pluripotent stem cells under xeno‐free conditions
Authors: Nguyen Hal X. , Nekanti Usha , Haus Daniel L. , Funes Gabrielle , Moreno Denisse , Kamei Noriko , Cummings Brian J. , Anderson Aileen J.
Published: April 2014

Human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) can differentiate into many cell types and are important for regenerative medicine; however, further work is needed to reliably differentiate hESC and hiPSC into neural‐restricted multipotent derivatives or specialized cell types under conditions that are free from animal products. Toward this goal, we tested the transition of hESC and hiPSC lines onto xeno‐free (XF) / feeder‐free conditions and evaluated XF substrate preference, pluripotency, and karyotype. Critically, XF transitioned H9 hESC, Shef4 hESC, and iPS6‐9 retained pluripotency (Oct‐4 and NANOG), proliferation (MKI67 and PCNA), and normal karyotype. Subsequently, XF transitioned hESC and hiPSC were induced with epidermal growth factor (EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) to generate neuralized spheres containing primitive neural precursors, which could differentiate into astrocytes and neurons, but not oligoprogenitors. Further neuralization of spheres via LIF supplementation and attachment selection on CELLstart substrate generated adherent human neural stem cells (hNSC) with normal karyotype and high proliferation potential under XF conditions. Interestingly, adherent hNSC derived from H9, Shef4, and iPS6‐9 differentiated into significant numbers of O4+ oligoprogenitors (∼20–30%) with robust proliferation; however, very few GalC+ cells were observed (∼2–4%), indicative of early oligodendrocytic lineage commitment. Overall, these data demonstrate the transition of multiple hESC and hiPSC lines onto XF substrate and media conditions, and a reproducible neuralization method that generated neural derivatives with multipotent cell fate potential and normal karyotype. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:2767–2783, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Syntheses, Structures, and Luminescence Properties of Lanthanide Coordination Polymers with a Polycarboxylic Terpyridyl Derivative Ligand
Authors: Xie Juan , Shu Hui‐Ming , Hu Huai‐Ming , Han Zhong‐Xi , Shen Sa‐Sa , Yuan Fei , Yang Meng‐Lin , Dong Fa‐Xin , Xue Gang‐Lin
Published: April 2014

Solvothermal reactions of lanthanide chloride with a new ligand, H3L, 4′‐(3‐carboxylpyridyl)‐2,2′:6′,2“‐terpyridine‐6,6”‐dicarboxylic acid, yields seven new lanthanide–organic frameworks: {[Ln2L2]⋅H2O}n (Ln=Pr (1), Nd (2), Sm (3), Eu (4)), {[Ln5L4(COO)3(H2O)4]⋅10 H2O}n (Ln=Tb (5), Dy (6)), and [Yb2L2(H2O)2]⋅2 H2O (7). Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction reveals that these complexes belong to three structural types. Type I (1–4) consists of lanthanide–carboxyl group layers pillared by L3− to form a three‐dimensional network. Type II (5 and 6) comprises a right‐handed helical chain and a left‐handed helical chain linked through L3− anions into a three‐dimensional framework. Type III (7) is a discrete dinuclear structure. The structural change is due to the decrease in the metal coordination number from nine for the large ions to seven for the small ions; this demonstrates the effect of lanthanide contraction. These materials exhibit high thermal stability. In addition, the luminescent properties of these complexes are discussed.
Regulated recruitment: native and alien fish responses to widespread floodplain inundation in the Macquarie Marshes, arid Australia
Authors: Rayner Thomas S. , Kingsford Richard T. , Suthers Iain M. , Cruz Derrick O.
Published: April 2014

Rivers and wetland ecosystems are degraded by diversions of water upstream. In response, governments have reallocated water to flood wetlands, mimicking natural inundation of habitats known to drive booms in native freshwater fish production. Individual flow events allow the ecological outcomes of restoration efforts to be evaluated, in order to improve ongoing adaptive management. This study investigated the population size and recruitment responses of seven native and three alien fish species to widespread floodplain inundation at 15 sites across the Macquarie Marshes, a regulated wetland in Australia's Murray–Darling Basin. Flooding during the late winter, when water temperatures were 4 to 12.6 °C below the spawning threshold for native fish species present in the system, promoted reproduction and recruitment by alien species, which were significantly more abundant than native species after flooding. Fish assemblage structure also differed significantly between main channel and floodplain habitats, with macrophytes, pH, emergent vegetation, flow velocity and small wood debris accounting for 59% of spatiotemporal variation in fish assemblage structure. Strong correlations were identified between the length of spawning window and post‐flood abundance of young‐of‐year and recruit size classes in the most abundant alien and native fish species. Future environmental flows, particularly those that inundate floodplain habitats, need to be delivered in light of the confounding effects of flow–temperature coupling and the lower spawning temperature thresholds of alien species. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixed‐Valence Biferrocenium Salts of Xn–TCNQ (X = F, Cl; n = 1, 2): Correlation between Molecular Structures and Assembled Structures
Authors: Mochida Tomoyuki , Funasako Yusuke , Yamazaki Shizue , Mori Hatsumi
Published: April 2014

Charge‐transfer salts composed of biferrocene derivatives and Xn–TCNQ (X = F, Cl; n = 1, 2; TCNQ = tetracyanoquinodimethane) were prepared and crystallographically characterized. All nine salts exhibited a 1:2 donor/acceptor (D/A) ratio consisting of mixed‐valence biferrocenium cations and anions with acceptor dimers. The packing patterns were correlated to the donor substituents. On the basis of the π–π interactions of the cations, the observed structures were classified into three categories: segregated‐stack structures for the biferrocenium and dibromo‐biferrocenium salts, mixed‐stack structures [···(DA2)n···] for the diiodo‐biferrocenium salts, and intermediate structures [···(DDA2A2)n···] for the bromo‐biferrocenium salts.
Routines and Challenges in Clinical Application of Electrochemical Ion‐Sensors
Authors: Lewenstam Andrzej
Published: April 2014

This review provides information on application of potentiometric ion‐sensors in routine clinical analysis. The text comprises sensor design, way‐of‐use, conventions and practical recommendations, and elements of IS response theory. An instrument producer point of view, based on direct industrial involvement of the author, is emphasized.
Deutschland wird Weltmeister!?
Authors: Tolan Metin
Published: April 2014

„Entscheidend is auf'm Platz”︁, wussten schon Adi Preißler und Otto Rehagel. Zumindest im Zahlenspiel der Fußballstatistik aber hat Jogi Löws Team eine 6,5 Mal höhere Wahrscheinlichkeit als ein „Durchschnittsteam”︁, endlich einmal wieder den Titel zu holen. Eine WM‐Prognose der wissenschaftlichen Art mit mathematischen Kniffen und Computersimulationen.
Multi‐institutional retrospective study for the evaluation of ocular function–preservation rates in maxillary sinus squamous cell carcinomas with orbital invasion
Authors: Sakashita Tomohiro , Hayashi Ryuichi , Homma Akihiro , Matsuura Kazuto , Kato Kengo , Kawabata Kazuyoshi , Monden Nobuya , Hasegawa Yasuhisa , Onitsuka Tetsuro , Fujimoto Yasushi , Iwae Shigemichi , Okami Kenji , Matsuzuka Takashi , Yoshino Kunitoshi , Fujii Masato
Published: April 2014

Background

The purpose of this retrospective analysis was to evaluate ocular function and survival rates among treatment modalities in patients with maxillary sinus cancer with orbital invasion.

Methods

Eighty‐seven patients were classified according to the main treatment modality. Ocular function preservation rates and survival rates were evaluated for each therapeutic modality.

Results

The 5‐year overall survival rate for the en bloc resection, conservative surgery, superselective intra‐arterial chemotherapy, and radiotherapy (RADPLAT), intravenous chemoradiotherapy (IV‐CRT) was 70%, 35%, 49%, and 31%, respectively. The ocular function preservation rate for each group was 15%, 27%, 30%, and 17%, respectively. In the en bloc resection group, there was no significant difference in the 5‐year overall survival rate between patients with orbital exenteration and those without orbital exenteration (72% vs 71%; p = .9321).

Conclusion

The en bloc resection group showed a favorable survival rate but a low preservation rate. Preservation of orbital contents did not reduce the survival rate. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 537–542, 2015
Tephrosia toxicaria Pers. reduces temporomandibular joint inflammatory hypernociception: The involvement of the HO‐1 pathway
Authors: do Val D.R. , Bezerra M.M. , Silva A.A.R. , Pereira K.M.A. , Rios L.C. , Lemos J.C. , Arriaga N.C. , Vasconcelos J.N. , Benevides N.M.B. , Pinto V.P.T. , Cristino‐Filho G. , Brito G.A.C. , Silva F.R.L. , Santiago G.M.P. , Arriaga A.M.C. , Chaves H.V.
Published: April 2014

Background

We investigated both the efficacy and the sub‐chronic toxicity of Tephrosia toxicaria Pers. in the zymosan‐induced temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammatory hypernociception in rats evaluating the possible role of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1).

Methods

Rats were pretreated with T. toxicaria (0.2, 2.0 or 20 mg/kg) 60 min before the intra‐articular injection of zymosan (2 mg, 40 μL) in the left TMJ. In another series of experiments, rats were treated with ZnPP‐IX (3 mg/kg), a specific HO‐1 inhibitor, before T. toxicaria (20 mg/kg). Von Frey test was used to evaluate inflammatory hypernociception (g) 4 h after zymosan injection. Six hours after zymosan injection, the synovial lavage was collected for total cell count and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and joint tissue for histopathological analysis and immunohistochemistry for HO‐1. To evaluate the sub‐chronic toxicity, mice received T. toxicaria (20 mg/kg) or saline once a day for 14 days to analyse body mass, organ weight and biochemical parameters.

Results

T. toxicaria partially reversed the zymosan‐induced head withdrawal threshold, the number of cells and the MPO activity. T. toxicaria reduced the inflammatory cell influx in the synovial membrane. TMJ immunohistochemical analyses treated with T. toxicaria showed increased HO‐1 expression. These effects of T. toxicaria were not observed in the presence of ZnPP‐IX. T. toxicaria treatment for 14 days did not show significant signs of toxicity when administrated to mice.

Conclusions

T. toxicaria did not produce any signs of toxicity and effectively decreased zymosan‐induced TMJ inflammatory hypernociception dependent, at least in part, upon the HO‐1 pathway integrity.
Low Serum Thyrotropin Level and Duration of Suppression as a Predictor of Major Osteoporotic Fractures—The OPENTHYRO Register Cohort
Authors: Abrahamsen Bo , Jørgensen Henrik L , Laulund Anne Sofie , Nybo Mads , Brix Thomas H , Hegedüs Laszlo
Published: April 2014

The relationship between thyrotoxicosis and osteoporotic fractures remains controversial, particularly in men. Register-based cohort study including all patients with a serum thyrotropin (TSH) measurement in the region of Funen 1996–2010. All TSH determinations were done in the same lab, which served all hospitals and General Practice (GP) practices in the region. Persons with raised TSH or a history of thyroid/pituitary disease or use of thyroid medications were excluded. The study population consisted of 222,138 (96%) persons with normal and 9217 (4%) with low TSH (<0.3 mIU/L). A single low TSH at baseline was associated with increased risk of hip fractures (adj HR 1.16, 95% CI 1.07–1.26, p < 0.001) but not major osteoporotic fractures (MOF, adj HR 1.06, 95% CI 0.99–1.12, p = 0.058) over a median follow-up of 7.5 years. When men were analyzed separately, results did not reach statistical significance. We found a significant association between duration of thyrotoxicosis and fracture. For each 6 months in which the mean TSH value was decreased (<0.3 mIU/L), hip fracture risk increased by a factor 1.07 (adj HR, 95% CI 1.04–1.10, p < 0.001) and MOF by 1.05 (adj HR, 95% CI 1.03–1.07, p < 0.001). Overt thyrotoxicosis was associated with an increased risk of hip fractures but not MOF. In euthyroid patients, the risk of fractures increased significantly with each SD unit of TSH decrease: Hip fracture (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.22–1.71, p < 0.001) and MOF (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.19–1.46, p < 0.001). In a population-based cohort, a single, first measurement of decreased TSH in patients without known thyroid disease was associated with an increased long-term risk of hip fracture, which remained significant in women but not in men after adjusting for confounders. Moreover, the risk of both hip fracture and MOF increased exponentially by the length of time during which TSH had remained low. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Tracking of Environmental Determinants of Bone Structure and Strength Development in Healthy Boys: An Eight-Year Follow Up Study on the Positive Interaction Between Physical Activity and Protein Intake From Prepuberty to Mid-Late Adolescence
Authors: Chevalley Thierry , Bonjour Jean-Philippe , van Rietbergen Bert , Ferrari Serge , Rizzoli René
Published: April 2014

High protein (> median:Hprot) vs. moderate (< median:MProt) intake was shown to enhance the positive impact of high physical activity (HPA) on proximal femur BMC/aBMD/Area in healthy prepubertal boys. We tested the hypothesis that this synergistic effect would track and influence bone structure and strength until mid-adolescence. BMC/aBMD/Area was measured at femoral neck (FN) and total hip (TotHip) by DXA in 176 boys at 7.4 ± 0.4 and 15.2 ± 0.5 years (± SD). Distal tibia (DistTib) microstructure and strength were also assessed at 15.2 years by high-resolution peripheral computerized tomography (HR-pQCT) and micro-finite element analysis (µFEA). The positive impact of HProt vs. MProt on FN and TotHip BMC/aBMD/Area, recorded at 7.4 years remained unabated at 15.2 years. At this age, at DistTib, HProt-HPA vs. MProt-HPA was associated (p < 0.001) with larger cross-sectional area (CSA, mm2), trabecular number (Tb.N, mm−1) and lower trabecular separation (Tb.Sp, µm). The interaction between physical activity and protein intake was significant for CSA (p = 0.012) and Tb.N (p = 0.043). Under MProt (38.0 ± 6.9 g.d−1), a difference in PA from 168 ± 40 to 303 ± 54 kcal.d−1 was associated with greater stiffness (kN/mm) and failure load (N) of +0.16 and +0.14 Z-score, respectively. In contrast, under HProt (56.2 ± 9.5 g.d−1), a difference in PA of similar magnitude, from 167 ± 33 to 324 ± 80 kcal.d−1, was associated with a larger difference in stiffness and failure load of +0.50 and +0.57 Z-score, respectively. In conclusion, the positive influence of relatively HProt on the impact of HPA on proximal femur macrostructure tracks from prepuberty to mid-late puberty. At this stage, the impact of HProt on HPA is also associated with microstructural changes that should confer greater mechanical resistance to weight-bearing bones. These results underscore the importance of protein intake and exercise synergistic interaction in the early prevention of adult osteoporosis. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Major Depressive Disorder and Bone Mass in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Calarge Chadi A , Butcher Brandon D , Burns Trudy L , Coryell William H , Schlechte Janet A , Zemel Babette S
Published: April 2014

Depression has been associated with reduced bone mass in adults, but the mechanisms remain unclear. In addition, little is known about the association between depression and bone health during growth and development. To address this knowledge gap, we examined bone density and structure in 222 adolescents and young adults (69% females, mean ± SD age: 19.0 ± 1.5 years), enrolled within 1 month of starting a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or unmedicated. Psychiatric functioning was assessed with self-report and researcher-administered instruments, including the Longitudinal Interval Follow-up Evaluation for Adolescents (A-LIFE). Anthropometric and laboratory measures included dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and peripheral quantitative computed tomography scans. Linear multivariable regression analysis tested the association between depression and bone mass, after accounting for relevant confounders. The presence of current depression was associated with a significant reduction in age-sex-height-race-specific bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC) of total body less head and lumbar spine. The findings varied by assessment method with self-report scales, capturing symptom severity over the prior week or two, yielding the weakest associations. Depression was also associated with reduced cortical thickness and a trend for increased endosteal circumference. In contrast, generalized anxiety disorder was not associated with bone deficits. In sum, depressive illness is associated with significantly lower bone mass in youths. Future investigations must examine whether bone recovery is possible following depression remission or whether remedial interventions are warranted to optimize bone mass in order to minimize the long-term risk of osteoporosis. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The Effect of Latitude on the Risk and Seasonal Variation in Hip Fracture in Sweden
Authors: Odén Anders , Kanis John A , McCloskey Eugene V , Johansson Helena
Published: April 2014

Although the optimal requirement of vitamin D for skeletal health in the general community is controversial, vitamin D deficiency impairs bone mineralization and increases bone turnover via secondary hyperparathyroidism, thus accelerating bone loss and increasing fracture risk. Support for a role of vitamin D deficiency in the epidemiology of hip fracture is found in the seasonal variation of hip fracture incidence that is reported in several studies. If the association were causal, then the incidence and amplitude of the seasonal variation in hip fracture risk should vary by latitude. We addressed this hypothesis by examining the incidence of hip fracture in men and women aged 50 years or more from Sweden (latitudes 55 to 69°) between 1987 and 2009. In order to reduce double counting, only one fracture in a period of a year was counted per individual. Men contributed 104,888 fractures in 33,313,065 person years and women 264,362 fractures in 38,387,660 person years. The effects of season and latitude were examined by Poisson regression. As expected, hip fracture rates were higher in women than in men. After adjustment for age, season and population density, hip fracture incidence increased by 3.0% (95% CI: 2.7–3.2%) per degree increase in latitude for men and by 1.9% (95% CI: 1.8–2.1%) for women. There was a marked seasonal variation of hip fracture with the highest risk in February and lower by 37.5% in men and by 23.5% women during the summer. There were significant interactions of amplitude of the seasonal variation with latitude (p < 0.001 for both men and women), indicating that seasonal variation during the year was more pronounced in the north of Sweden than in the south. The associations found with latitude and season is consistent with a role of vitamin D in hip fracture causation. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Hyperkyphosis, Kyphosis Progression, and Risk of Non-Spine Fractures in Older Community Dwelling Women: The Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF)
Authors: Kado Deborah M , Miller-Martinez Dana , Lui Li-Yung , Cawthon Peggy , Katzman Wendy B , Hillier Teresa A , Fink Howard A , Ensrud Kristine E
Published: April 2014

While accentuated kyphosis is associated with osteoporosis, it is unknown whether it increases risk of future fractures, independent of bone mineral density (BMD) and vertebral fractures. We examined the associations of baseline Cobb angle kyphosis and 15 year change in kyphosis with incident non-spine fractures using data from the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures. A total of 994 predominantly white women, aged 65 or older, were randomly sampled from 9704 original participants to have repeated Cobb angle measurements of kyphosis measured from lateral spine radiographs at baseline and an average of 15 years later. Non-spine fractures, confirmed by radiographic report, were assessed every 4 months for up to 21.3 years. Compared with women in the lower three quartiles of kyphosis, women with kyphosis greater than 53° (top quartile) had a 50% increased risk of non-spine fracture (95% CI, 1.10–2.06 after adjusting for BMD, prevalent vertebral fractures, prior history of fractures, and other fracture risk factors. Cobb angle kyphosis progressed an average of 7° (SD = 6.8) over 15 years. Per 1 SD increase in kyphosis change, there was a multivariable adjusted 28% increased risk of fracture (95% CI, 1.06–1.55) that was attenuated by further adjustment for baseline BMD (HR per SD increase in kyphosis change, 1.19; 95% CI 0.99–1.44). Greater kyphosis is associated with an elevated non-spine fracture risk independent of traditional fracture risk factors in older women. Furthermore, worsening kyphosis is also associated with increased fracture risk that is partially mediated by low baseline BMD that itself is a risk factor for kyphosis progression. These results suggest that randomized controlled fracture intervention trials should consider implementing kyphosis measures to the following: (1) further study kyphosis and kyphosis change as an additional fracture risk factor; and (2) test whether therapies may improve or delay its progression. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Passive temperature control of an outdoor photobioreactor by phase change materials
Authors: Uyar Basar , Kapucu Nurcan
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Photobioreactors operated under sunlight require a temperature control system. Proposed cooling/heating systems increase the cost of the bioprocess due to their intensive energy utilization or the decrease in bioprocess efficiency they cause. In this study, a novel solar photobioreactor was developed in which phase change materials are employed for controlling the temperature without using external energy. The system was tested in outdoor conditions using Rhodobacter capsulatus as a model photosynthetic microorganism.

RESULTS

Tests showed the considerable heat generation by bacteria in the photobioreactor, which makes the cooling system a must during the day. Compared with an uncontrolled photobioreactor, this design decreased the maximum temperature reached in the photobioreactor by 10°C, in addition to decreasing the rate of temperature increase by 26%, the energy required for cooling by 52%, and the duration of the cooling by 9%. The design also decreased the heating requirements during the night slightly.

CONCLUSION

This research suggests that phase change materials such as capric acid and Glauber's salt can be utilized for controlling the temperature of photobioreactors that operate under sunlight to obtain significant energy savings by decreasing the requirements for both active cooling and heating. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Sonoelectrochemical oxidation of carbamazepine in waters: optimization using response surface methodology
Authors: Tran Nam , Drogui Patrick , Brar Satinder K.
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

The decomposition of carbamazepine (CBZ) in synthetic solution and in municipal effluent was investigated using a sono‐electrochemical reactor. Sono‐electrolysis was conducted using two concentrical electrodes installed in a cylindrical reactor containing a ceramic transducer.

RESULTS

CBZ concentration (C0=10 mg L−1) optimally diminished up to 90% by applying a current intensity of 4.86 A for 177 min and by imposing an ultrasound power of 38.29 W. The optimal conditions were subsequently applied for tertiary treatment of municipal wastewater effluent contaminated with 10 µg CBZ L−1. The reported removal efficiencies of CBZ, TOC, COD and colour were 93%, 60%, 93% and 86%, respectively. Likewise, the toxicity was completely removed (bacterium Vibrio fisheri) from the municipal wastewater effluent (>96%).

CONCLUSIONS

The advantages of coupling ultrasonication and electrooxidation (US‐EO) treatment for CBZ removal were demonstrated. An experimental design methodology based on response surface methodology was applied to determine the optimal experimental conditions in terms of cost/effectiveness of removal. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Epigenetics, plasticity, and evolution: How do we link epigenetic change to phenotype?
Authors: Duncan Elizabeth J. , Gluckman Peter D. , Dearden Peter K.
Published: April 2014

Epigenetic mechanisms are proposed as an important way in which the genome responds to the environment. Epigenetic marks, including DNA methylation and Histone modifications, can be triggered by environmental effects, and lead to permanent changes in gene expression, affecting the phenotype of an organism. Epigenetic mechanisms have been proposed as key in plasticity, allowing environmental exposure to shape future gene expression. While we are beginning to understand how these mechanisms have roles in human biology and disease, we have little understanding of their roles and impacts on ecology and evolution. In this review, we discuss different types of epigenetic marks, their roles in gene expression and plasticity, methods for assaying epigenetic changes, and point out the future advances we require to understand fully the impact of this field. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 208–220, 2014. © 2014 The Authors. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Talonavicular joint coverage and bone morphology between different foot types
Authors: Louie Philip K. , Sangeorzan Bruce J. , Fassbind Michael J. , Ledoux William R.
Published: April 2014

This study explored three dimensional (3D) talonavicular joint (TNJ) coverage/orientation and bone morphology to reveal parameters that could classify and identify predispositions to cavus and planus feet. 3D models of 65 feet from 40 subjects were generated from computed tomography images classified as pes cavus, neutrally aligned, or asymptomatic/symptomatic pes planus. We calculated the talar and navicular overlap (TNJ coverage). We also measured orientation of the navicular, morphological parameters of the talus and navicular, and angular position of the talar head to body. Pes cavus showed significantly less talonavicular coverage (58 ± 2% talus and 86 ± 2% navicular) compared to asymptomatic pes planus (63 ± 2% and 95 ± 2%) and neutrally aligned feet (98 ± 2% navicular), and significantly more navicular dorsiflexion and adduction relative to the talus (p < 0.0083). The talar head in cavus feet was inverted relative to the body compared to planus feet (p < 0.0083). For symptomatic pes planus, significant abduction was measured for the navicular relative to the talus and the talar head was plantar flexed relative to the body (p < 0.0083). The talar head in planus feet was everted relative to the body compared to neutrally aligned feet. Both intrinsic (bone morphology) and extrinsic (bone position) differences exist in groups of feet described as cavus and planus. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:958–966, 2014.
Back‐channel‐etched thin‐film transistor using c‐axis‐aligned crystal In–Ga–Zn oxide
Authors: Yamazaki Shunpei , Hirohashi Takuya , Takahashi Masahiro , Adachi Shunsuke , Tsubuku Masashi , Koezuka Junichi , Okazaki Kenichi , Kanzaki Yohsuke , Matsukizono Hiroshi , Kaneko Seiji , Mori Shigeyasu , Matsuo Takuya
Published: April 2014

Our crystalline In–Ga–Zn oxide (IGZO) thin film has a c‐axis‐aligned crystal (CAAC) structure and maintains crystallinity even on an amorphous base layer. Although the crystal has c‐axis alignment, its a‐axis and b‐axis have random arrangement; moreover, a clear grain boundary is not observed. We fabricated a back‐channel‐etched thin‐film transistor (TFT) using the CAAC‐IGZO film. Using the CAAC‐IGZO film, more stable TFT characteristics, even with a short channel length, can be obtained, and the instability of the back channel, which is one of the biggest problems of IGZO TFTs, is solved. As a result, we improved the process of manufacturing back‐channel‐etched TFTs.
A rabbit vocal fold laser scarring model for testing lamina propria tissue‐engineering therapies
Authors: Mau Ted , Du Mindy , Xu Chet C.
Published: April 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To develop a vocal fold scarring model using an ablative laser in the rabbit as a platform for testing bioengineered therapies for missing or damaged lamina propria.

Study Design

Prospective controlled animal study.

Methods

An optimal laser energy level was first determined by assessing the depths of vocal fold injury created by a Holmium:YAG laser at various energy levels on fresh cadaveric rabbit larynges. The selected energy level was then used to create controlled unilateral injuries in vocal folds of New Zealand white rabbits, with the contralateral folds serving as uninjured controls. After 4 weeks, the larynges were harvested and subjected to excised‐larynx phonation with high‐speed imaging and immunohistochemical staining for collagen types I and III, elastin, and hyaluronic acid (HA) with quantitative histological analysis.

Results

A total of 1.8 joules produced full‐thickness injury of the lamina propria without extensive muscle injury. After 4 weeks, the injured vocal folds vibrated with reduced amplitude (P = 0.036) in excised‐larynx phonation compared to normal vocal folds. The injured vocal folds contained a higher relative density of collagen type I (P = 0.004), higher elastin (P = 0.022), and lower HA (P = 0.030) compared to normal controls. Collagen type III was unchanged.

Conclusions

With its potential for higher precision of injury, this laser vocal fold scarring model may serve as an alternative to scarring produced by cold instruments for studying the effects of vocal fold lamina propria bioengineered therapies.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope 124:2321–2326, 2014
The prevalence of bacterial infection in acute rhinosinusitis: A Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Smith Stephanie S. , Ference Elisabeth H. , Evans Charlesnika T. , Tan Bruce K. , Kern Robert C. , Chandra Rakesh K.
Published: April 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To systematically assess the prevalence of bacterial infection in adults with acute rhinosinusitis (ARS).

Methods

Electronic databases were systematically searched for relevant studies published up to June 2012.

Results

Twenty‐nine articles, evaluating a total of 9,595 patients with a clinical diagnosis of ARS, were included in the study. Of these, 14 (48%) studies required radiographic confirmation of sinusitis, one study (3%) required evidence of purulence, 10 studies (35%) required both for inclusion in the study population, and four studies (14%) required neither. The random effects model estimate of prevalence of bacterial growth on all cultures was 53.7% (CI 48.4%–59.0%), ranging from 52.5% (CI 46.7%–58.3%) in studies requiring radiographic confirmation of sinusitis to 61.1% (CI 54.0%–68.1%) in studies requiring neither radiographic evidence nor purulence on exam. Studies that obtained cultures from antral swab had a prevalence of bacterial growth of 61.0% (CI 54.7%–67.2%), whereas those utilizing endoscopic meatal sampling had a prevalence of 32.9% (CI 19.0%–46.8%).

Conclusions

Few studies evaluate the recovery of bacteria via culture in adults with a diagnosis of ABRS or ARS based on clinical criteria alone. With radiographic and/or endoscopic confirmation, antral puncture and endoscopically guided cultures produce positive bacterial cultures in approximately one‐half of patients. Opportunities exist to improve diagnostic accuracy for bacterial infection in ARS. Laryngoscope, 125:57–69, 2015
Competitive Molecular‐/Ion‐Recognition Responsive Characteristics of Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐benzo‐12‐crown‐4‐acrylamide) Copolymers with Benzo‐12‐crown‐4 as Both Guest and Host Units
Authors: Wang Yin‐Mei , Ju Xiao‐Jie , Liu Zhuang , Xie Rui , Wang Wei , Wu Jiang‐Feng , Zhang Yan‐Qiong , Chu Liang‐Yin
Published: April 2014

Novel dual molecular‐ and ion‐recognition responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐benzo‐12‐crown‐4‐acrylamide) (PNB12C4) linear copolymers with benzo‐12‐crown‐4 (B12C4) as both guest and host units are prepared. The copolymers exhibit highly selective sensitivities toward γ‐cyclodextrin (γ‐CD) and Na+. The presence of γ‐CD induces the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of PNB12C4 copolymer to shift to a higher value due to the formation of 1:1 γ‐CD/B12C4 host‐guest inclusion complexes, while Na+ causes a negative shift in LCST due to the formation of 2:1 “sandwich” B12C4/Na+ host‐guest complexes. Regardless of the complexation order, when γ‐CD and Na+ coexist with PNB12C4, competitive complexation actions of B12C4 as both guest and host units toward γ‐CD and Na+ finally form equilibrium 2:2:1 γ‐CD/B12C4/Na+ composite complexes, and the final LCST values of PNB12C4 copolymer reach almost the same level. The results provide valuable guidance for designing and applying PNB12C4‐based smart materials in various applications.

image
Polymer Nanoparticles for Controlled Release Stimulated by Visible Light and pH
Authors: Dong Jie , Zhang Ruichen , Wu Hao , Zhan Xiaowei , Yang Huai , Zhu Siquan , Wang Guojie
Published: April 2014

Polymer nanoparticles are prepared by self‐assembly of visible light and pH sensitive perylene‐functionalized copolymers which are synthesized by quaternization between 1‐(bromomethyl)perylene and the dimethylaminoethyl units of poly(dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA). The perylene‐containing polymethacrylate segments afford the system visible light responsiveness and the unquaternized PDMAEMA segments afford the system pH responsiveness. The self‐assembled nanoparticles exhibit a unique dual stimuli response. They can be photocleaved under visible light irradiation, shrunken to smaller nanoparticles at high pH, and swollen at low pH. The structural change endows the nanoparticle with great potential as a sensitive nanocarrier for controlled release of Nile Red and lysozyme under this stimulation. The visible light responsiveness and synergistic effect on the release of loaded molecules with the dual stimulation may obviate the need for harsh conditions such as UV light or extreme pH stimulation, rendering the system more applicable under mild conditions.

image