bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrative Analysis of Micro‐RNA, Gene Expression, and Survival of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Huang Yen‐Tsung , Hsu Thomas , Kelsey Karl T. , Lin Chien‐Ling
Published: December 2014

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common type of malignant brain tumor, is highly fatal. Limited understanding of its rapid progression necessitates additional approaches that integrate what is known about the genomics of this cancer. Using a discovery set (n= 348) and a validation set (n= 174) of GBM patients, we performed genome‐wide analyses that integrated mRNA and micro‐RNA expression data from GBM as well as associated survival information, assessing coordinated variability in each as this reflects their known mechanistic functions. Cox proportional hazards models were used for the survival analyses, and nonparametric permutation tests were performed for the micro‐RNAs to investigate the association between the number of associated genes and its prognostication. We also utilized mediation analyses for micro‐RNA‐gene pairs to identify their mediation effects. Genome‐wide analyses revealed a novel pattern: micro‐RNAs related to more gene expressions are more likely to be associated with GBM survival (P= 4.8 × 10−5). Genome‐wide mediation analyses for the 32,660 micro‐RNA‐gene pairs with strong association (false discovery rate [FDR] < 0.01%) identified 51 validated pairs with significant mediation effect. Of the 51 pairs, miR‐223 had 16 mediation genes. These 16 mediation genes of miR‐223 were also highly associated with various other micro‐RNAs and mediated their prognostic effects as well. We further constructed a gene signature using the 16 genes, which was highly associated with GBM survival in both the discovery and validation sets (P= 9.8 × 10−6). This comprehensive study discovered mediation effects of micro‐RNA to gene expression and GBM survival and provided a new analytic framework for integrative genomics.
Principal Component Regression and Linear Mixed Model in Association Analysis of Structured Samples: Competitors or Complements?
Authors: Zhang Yiwei , Pan Wei
Published: December 2014

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have been established as a major tool to identify genetic variants associated with complex traits, such as common diseases. However, GWAS may suffer from false positives and false negatives due to confounding population structures, including known or unknown relatedness. Another important issue is unmeasured environmental risk factors. Among many methods for adjusting for population structures, two approaches stand out: one is principal component regression (PCR) based on principal component analysis, which is perhaps the most popular due to its early appearance, simplicity, and general effectiveness; the other is based on a linear mixed model (LMM) that has emerged recently as perhaps the most flexible and effective, especially for samples with complex structures as in model organisms. As shown previously, the PCR approach can be regarded as an approximation to an LMM; such an approximation depends on the number of the top principal components (PCs) used, the choice of which is often difficult in practice. Hence, in the presence of population structure, the LMM appears to outperform the PCR method. However, due to the different treatments of fixed vs. random effects in the two approaches, we show an advantage of PCR over LMM: in the presence of an unknown but spatially confined environmental confounder (e.g., environmental pollution or lifestyle), the PCs may be able to implicitly and effectively adjust for the confounder whereas the LMM cannot. Accordingly, to adjust for both population structures and nongenetic confounders, we propose a hybrid method combining the use and, thus, strengths of PCR and LMM. We use real genotype data and simulated phenotypes to confirm the above points, and establish the superior performance of the hybrid method across all scenarios.
Treatment outcomes of intensity‐modulated radiotherapy versus 3D conformal radiotherapy for patients with maxillary sinus cancer in the postoperative setting
Authors: Suh Yang‐Gun , Lee Chang Geol , Kim Hyunju , Choi Eun Chang , Kim Se Hun , Kim Chang‐Hoon , Keum Ki Chang
Published: December 2014

Background

In this study, we compared the treatment outcomes of postoperative 3D conformal radiotherapy (RT) and intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for patients with maxillary sinus carcinoma.

Methods

Fifty‐four patients underwent surgery and postoperative RT, of whom 27 (50%) had squamous cell carcinoma and 14 (26%) had adenoid cystic carcinoma. Nineteen patients (35%) were treated with IMRT and 35 patients (65%) received 3D conformal RT. The median radiation dose for 3D conformal RT and IMRT were 62.1 and 63 Gy, respectively.

Results

IMRT produced significantly superior radiation dose distribution to planning target volumes (PTVs) than 3D conformal RT. Over a median follow‐up of 60 months, IMRT provided better 3‐year locoregional recurrence‐free survival (89.2% vs 59.5%; p = .035) and distant metastasis‐free survival (94.7% vs 55.3%; p = .042) rates than 3D conformal RT.

Conclusion

Postoperative IMRT for patients with maxillary sinus carcinoma resulted in excellent disease control, and should be considered as the first treatment option in these cases. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E207–E213, 2016
Hospital readmission and 30‐day mortality after surgery for oral cavity cancer: Analysis of 21,681 cases
Authors: Luryi Alexander L. , Chen Michelle M. , Mehra Saral , Roman Sanziana A. , Sosa Julie A. , Judson Benjamin L.
Published: December 2014

Background

Oral cavity squamous cell cancer (SCC) is treated primarily with surgery. Rates of 30‐day hospital readmission and mortality after surgery for oral cavity SCC are unknown.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of postoperative 30‐day unplanned readmission and mortality in patients with oral cavity SCC in the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB).

Results

Among 21,681 cases, the 30‐day unplanned readmission rate was 3.2%, and the 30‐day mortality rate was 1.0%. Male sex (odds ratio [OR] = 1.23; p = .02), stage T3 (OR = 1.55; p = .007), or T4 (OR = 1.52; p = .002), and neck dissection (OR = 1.37; p = .04) were independently associated with readmission. Age 76 to 85 years (OR = 4.80; p < .001), age >85 years (OR = 10.24; p < .001), comorbidity index ≥1 (OR = 2.31; p < .001), and stage T3 (OR = 3.02; p < .001) or T4 (OR = 3.24; p < .001) were associated with 30‐day mortality.

Conclusion

Interventions aimed at decreasing hospital readmissions should target high‐risk patients identified here. Factors associated with 30‐day mortality reflect risk factors for overall mortality. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E221–E226, 2016
A three‐plane architectonic atlas of the rat hippocampal region
Authors: Boccara Charlotte N. , Kjonigsen Lisa J. , Hammer Ingvild M. , Bjaalie Jan G. , Leergaard Trygve B. , Witter Menno P.
Published: December 2014

The hippocampal region, comprising the hippocampal formation and the parahippocampal region, has been one of the most intensively studied parts of the brain for decades. Better understanding of its functional diversity and complexity has led to an increased demand for specificity in experimental procedures and manipulations. In view of the complex 3D structure of the hippocampal region, precisely positioned experimental approaches require a fine‐grained architectural description that is available and readable to experimentalists lacking detailed anatomical experience. In this paper, we provide the first cyto‐ and chemoarchitectural description of the hippocampal formation and parahippocampal region in the rat at high resolution and in the three standard sectional planes: coronal, horizontal and sagittal. The atlas uses a series of adjacent sections stained for neurons and for a number of chemical marker substances, particularly parvalbumin and calbindin. All the borders defined in one plane have been cross‐checked against their counterparts in the other two planes. The entire dataset will be made available as a web‐based interactive application through the Rodent Brain WorkBench (http://www.rbwb.org) which, together with this paper, provides a unique atlas resource. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adiponectin Prevents Reduction of Lipid‐Induced Mitochondrial Biogenesis via AMPK/ACC2 Pathway in Chicken Adipocyte
Authors: Gan Lu , Yan Jun , Liu Zhenjiang , Feng Min , Sun Chao
Published: December 2014

Adiponectin (APN) stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis and reduces lipid content in human and animal adipocytes. However, the mechanism of adiponectin in regulating mitochondrial biogenesis in chicken adipocytes has never been reported. The objective of this study is to examine the mechanism that adiponectin plays in lipid‐induced mitochondrial biogenesis and mitochondrial function in chicken adipocytes. We found that the overexpression of adiponectin reduced the membrane DAG content and elevated the membrane translocation of PKCθ. In contrast to control groups, the overexpression of adiponectin increased mitochondrial density and mitochondrial DNA contents and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor αcoactivator 1α (PGC1‐α) expression. Mitochondrial membrane potential and cytochrome C (Cyt C) content were detected by JC‐1 fluorescent staining and immunofluorescence which indicated that overexpression of adiponectin enhanced mitochondrial ATP synthesis. Moreover, AMPK/ACC2 signaling pathway was activated along with the elevation of PGC1‐α and TFAM by the overexpression of adiponectin, meanwhile the lipid transcription marker genes were down‐regulated. This effect was alleviated by reducing adiponectin and a specific inhibitor of AMPK pathway. We concluded that adiponectin could prevent reduction of lipid‐induced mitochondrial biogenesis via AMPK/ACC2 pathway in chicken adipocytes. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 1090–1100, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Isolation, Characterization and Cardiac Differentiation of Human Thymus Tissue Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Lin Ze Bang , Qian Bo , Yang Yu Zhong , Zhou Kai , Sun Jian , Mo Xu Ming , Wu Kai Hong
Published: December 2014

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are promising candidate donor cells for replacement of cardiomyocyte loss during ischemia and in vitro generation of myocardial tissue. We have successfully isolated MSCs from the discarded neonatal thymus gland during cardiac surgery. The thymus MSCs were characterized by cell‐surface antigen expression. These cells have high ability for proliferation and are able to differentiate into osteoblasts and adipocytes in vitro. For cardiac differentiation, the cells were divided into 3 groups: untreated control; 5‐azacytidine group and sequential exposure to 5‐azacytidine, bone morphogenetic protein 4, and basic fibroblast growth factor. Thymus MSCs showed a fibrolast‐like morphology and some differentiated cells increased in size, formed a ball‐like appearance over time and spontaneously contracting cells were observed in sequential exposure group. Immunostaining studies, cardiac specific genes/protein expression confirmed the cardiomyocyte phenotype of the differentiated cells. These results demonstrate that thymus MSCs can be a promising cellular source for cardiac cell therapy and tissue engineering. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 1205–1212, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Change in delay discounting and substance reward value following a brief alcohol and drug use intervention
Authors: Dennhardt Ashley A. , Yurasek Ali M. , Murphy James G.
Published: December 2014

The present study examined (1) the impact of a brief substance use intervention on delay discounting and indices of substance reward value (RV), and (2) whether baseline values and posttreatment change in these behavioral economic variables predict substance use outcomes. Participants were 97 heavy drinking college students (58.8% female, 41.2% male) who completed a brief motivational intervention (BMI) and then were randomized to one of two conditions: a supplemental behavioral economic intervention that attempted to increase engagement in substance‐free activities associated with delayed rewards (SFAS) or an Education control (EDU). Demand intensity, and Omax, decreased and elasticity significantly increased after treatment, but there was no effect for condition. Both baseline values and change in RV, but not discounting, predicted substance use outcomes at 6‐month follow‐up. Students with high RV who used marijuana were more likely to reduce their use after the SFAS intervention. These results suggest that brief interventions may reduce substance reward value, and that changes in reward value are associated with subsequent drinking and drug use reductions. High RV marijuana users may benefit from intervention elements that enhance future time orientation and substance‐free activity participation.
The effect of response rate on reward value in a self‐control task
Authors: Fortes Inês , Vasconcelos Marco , Machado Armando
Published: December 2014

To understand how effort, defined by number of responses required to obtain a reward, affects reward value, five pigeons were exposed to a self‐control task. They chose between two alternatives, 2 s of access to food after a delay of 10 s, and 6 s of access to food after an adjusting delay. The adjusting delay increased or decreased depending on the pigeons' choices. The delay at which the two alternatives were equally chosen defined the indifference point. To determine whether requiring responses during the delay led to more impulsive (smaller–sooner rewards) or self‐controlled (larger–later rewards) choices, we varied the number of required pecks during the 10‐s delay to the 2‐s reinforcer, and assessed how the requirement affected the indifference points. In the High Rate Phase, they had to peck at least 10 times during the delay; in the Low Rate Phase, they could peck at most 5 times during the delay. For four pigeons the indifference point increased with the response requirement; for one pigeon it decreased. The results suggest that, in general, reward value varies inversely with effort.
A Note on Circular Chromatic Number of Graphs with Large Girth and Similar Problems
Authors: Nešetřil Jaroslav , Ossona de Mendez Patrice
Published: December 2014

In this short note, we extend the result of Galluccio, Goddyn, and Hell, which states that graphs of large girth excluding a minor are nearly bipartite. We also prove a similar result for the oriented chromatic number, from which follows in particular that graphs of large girth excluding a minor have oriented chromatic number at most 5, and for the pth chromatic number , from which follows in particular that graphs G of large girth excluding a minor have .
How can two soft bodied animals be precisely connected? a miniature quick‐connect system in the slugs, Arion lusitanicus and Arion rufus
Authors: Allgaier Christoph
Published: December 2014

Among stylommatophoran gastropods, many species have simplified or reduced their copulatory organs, for example, within the Arionidae, many species lack penes. In this study, I ask two questions 1) How are soft bodied slugs which do not possess a penis connected during copulation? and 2) Is there a mechanical isolating barrier between related sympatric slug species? Observations on the mating behavior and the functional morphology of the distal genital apparatus were made in a mixed population of Arion lusitanicus and Arion rufus. The investigated Arion species exhibit an elaborate copulation process with a quick genital coupling. Prior to full eversion of the distal genitalia, the genital coupling proceeds inside the atrium cavity of one of the partners. This is in contrast to the symmetrical mutual eversion in penis‐bearing species. The donor–recipient channels are tightly connected to one after another and fit precisely. During copulation, the jelly‐coated spermatophore of the donor is pressed out into the connected channel of the partner, where it is implanted only with its frontal part. In the field, successful interspecific matings in terms of spermatophore transfer were rarely observed. The observations presented indicate a mechanical barrier which may profoundly influence the intraspecific and interspecific mating success. J. Morphol. 276:631–648, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sino‐French Partnership Casts Light on Dealing With Culture and Conflict in International Joint Ventures
Authors: Anglès Valérie
Published: December 2014

Conflicts that arise between international teams often are attributed to mistakes that stem from national or cultural differences. Tajfel and Turner's Social Identification Theory (SIT), however, provides an approach to analyzing conflict that does not rely on identifying and explaining country‐specific differences. Instead, SIT shows how the perceptions of these cultural differences are part of a psycho‐sociological process of identification with a national group that systematically leads to conflict. An analysis of this process and the conditions that favored it during negotiations between the French and Chinese teams in an industrial partnership offers recommendations for counteracting it and avoiding sources of conflict between groups, regardless of the national cultures involved. These suggestions include avoiding time and place for comparison between the two groups, improving communications, avoiding causes of stress and anxiety, and hiring a mediator or facilitator. ©2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Resolution of protein structure by mass spectrometry
Authors: Vandermarliere Elien , Stes Elisabeth , Gevaert Kris , Martens Lennart
Published: December 2014

Typically, mass spectrometry is used to identify the peptides present in a complex peptide mixture and subsequently the precursor proteins. As such, mass spectrometry focuses mainly on the primary structure, the (modified) amino acid sequence of peptides and proteins. In contrast, the three‐dimensional structure of a protein is typically determined with protein X‐ray crystallography or NMR. Despite the close relationship between these two aspects of protein studies (sequence and structure), mass spectrometry and structure determination are not frequently combined. Nevertheless, this combination of approaches, dubbed conformational proteomics, can offer insight into the function, working mechanism, and conformational status of a protein. In this review, we will discuss the developments at the intersection of mass spectrometry‐based proteomics and protein structure determination and start from a brief overview of the classic approaches to identify protein structure along with their advantages and disadvantages. We will subsequently discuss the ability of mass spectrometry to overcome some of the hurdles of these classic methods. Finally, we will provide an outlook on the interplay of mass spectrometry and protein structure determination, and highlight several recent experiments in which mass spectrometry was successfully used to either aid or complement structure elucidation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 35:653–665, 2016
Quantification of sperm specific mRNA transcripts (PRM1, PRM2, and TNP2) in teratozoospermia and normozoospermia: New correlations between mRNA content and morphology of sperm
Authors: Savadi‐Shiraz Elham , Edalatkhah Haleh , Talebi Saeed , Heidari‐Vala Hamed , Zandemami Mahdi , Pahlavan Somayeh , Modarressi Mohammad Hossein , Akhondi Mohammad Mehdi , Paradowska‐Dogan Agnieszka , Sadeghi Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2014

Sperm mRNAs could be used as a predictor of fertilization capacity since the transcriptional profile of a gamete is critical for the production of viable human sperm. The aim of this study was to determine if PRM1, PRM2, and TNP2 transcripts in spermatozoa from normozoospermic and teratozoospermic men correlate with sperm morphology and/or assisted‐reproduction outcomes. Human ejaculates were collected from 138 men referred to an infertility clinic, and were separated in two groups, teratozoospermic (n = 72) and normozoospermic (n = 66), based on World Health Organization criteria (2010). Chromomycin A3 and analine blue staining were used to evaluate protamination and chromatin integrity, respectively. Quantitative reverse‐transcriptase PCR was performed for PRM1, PRM2, and TNP2. This analysis revealed significantly higher PRM1 and PRM2 mRNA copy numbers in normozoospermic versus teratozoospermic samples (P < 0.001). In contrast, TNP2 transcript abundance was significantly higher in teratozoospermic versus normozoospermic samples (P < 0.001) and positively correlated with sperm‐head defects (P < 0.05). Sperm‐tail defects negatively correlated (P < 0.05) with both PRM1 and PRM2 transcripts in normozoospermic samples. No significant differences were observed between the two groups when comparing transcript levels to the outcome of intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles (P > 0.05), and a normal PRM1/PRM2 mRNA ratio (∼1) was observed in more than 70% of successful cycles. Thus, the quantity of PRM1, PRM2, and TNP2 transcripts and the PRM1/PRM2 mRNA ratio affect spermiogenesis, sperm morphology, and the function of mature human sperm. These mRNAs could therefore be used as biomarkers for the diagnosis of male infertility. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 26–35, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selective magnetic resonance imaging of magnetic nanoparticles by acoustically induced rotary saturation
Authors: Zhu Bo , Witzel Thomas , Jiang Shan , Huang Susie Y. , Rosen Bruce R. , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: December 2014

Purpose

The goal of this study was to introduce a new method to selectively detect iron oxide contrast agents using an acoustic wave to perturb the spin‐locked water signal in the vicinity of the magnetic particles. The acoustic drive can be modulated externally to turn the effect on and off, allowing sensitive and quantitative statistical comparison and removal of confounding image background variations.

Methods

We demonstrated the effect in spin‐locking experiments using piezoelectric actuators to generate vibrational displacements of iron oxide samples. We observed a resonant behavior of the signal changes with respect to the acoustic frequency where iron oxide is present. We characterized the effect as a function of actuator displacement and contrast agent concentration.

Results

The resonant effect allowed us to generate block‐design “modulation response maps” indicating the contrast agent's location, as well as positive contrast images with suppressed background signal. We found that the acoustically induced rotary saturation (AIRS) effect stayed approximately constant across acoustic frequency and behaved monotonically over actuator displacement and contrast agent concentration.

Conclusion

AIRS is a promising method capable of using acoustic vibrations to modulate the contrast from iron oxide nanoparticles and thus perform selective detection of the contrast agents, potentially enabling more accurate visualization of contrast agents in clinical and research settings. Magn Reson Med 75:97–106, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Six fucose‐α(1–2) sugars and α‐fucose assigned in the human brain using in vivo two‐dimensional MRS
Authors: Mountford Carolyn , Quadrelli Scott , Lin Alexander , Ramadan Saadallah
Published: December 2014

A growing body of literature has indicated that fucose‐α(1–2)‐galactose sugars are implicated in the molecular mechanisms that underlie neuronal development, learning and memory in the human brain. An understanding of the in vivo roles played by these terminal fucose residues has been hampered by the lack of technology to non‐invasively monitor their levels in the human brain. We have implemented in vivo two‐dimensional MRS technology to examine the human brain in a 3‐T clinical MR scanner, and report that six fucose‐α(1–2)‐galactose residues and free α‐fucose are available for inspection. Fucose‐α(1–3)‐galactose residues cannot yet be assigned using this technology as they resonate under the water resonance. This new application offers an unprecedented insight into the molecular mechanisms by which fucosylated sugars contribute to neuronal processes and how they alter during development, ageing and disease. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A nonlinear parametric model reduction method for efficient gear contact simulations
Authors: Blockmans B. , Tamarozzi T. , Naets F. , Desmet W.
Published: December 2014

A novel nonlinear parametric model order reduction technique for the solution of contact problems in flexible multibody dynamics is presented. These problems are characterized by significant variations in the location and size of the contact area and typically require high‐dimensional finite element models having multiple inputs and outputs to be solved. The presented technique draws from the fields of nonlinear and parametric model reduction to construct a reduced‐order model whose dimensions are insensitive to the dimensions of the full‐order model. The solution of interest is approximated in a lower‐dimensional subspace spanned by a constant set of eigenvectors augmented with a parameter‐dependent set of global contact shapes. The latter represent deformation patterns of the interacting bodies obtained from a series of static contact analyses. The set of global contact shapes is parameterized with respect to the system configuration and therefore continuously varies in time. An energy‐consistent formulation is assured by explicitly taking into account the dynamic parameter variability in the derivation of the equations of motion. The performance of the novel technique is demonstrated by simulating a dynamic gear contact problem and comparing results against traditional model reduction techniques as well as commercial nonlinear finite element software. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental analysis and theoretical modeling of the mechanical behavior of short glass fiber and short carbon fiber reinforced polycarbonate hybrid composites
Authors: Law T.T. , Phua Y.J. , Senawi R. , Hassan A. , Mohd Ishak Z.A.
Published: December 2014

In this research, polycarbonate (PC) composites with short glass fiber (SGF) and short carbon fiber (SCF) hybrid fiber reinforcements were compounded by single screw extruder and specimens were prepared by injection molding machine. This article aims to investigate the mechanical properties of PC hybrid composites, by means of the experimental and the theoretical methods. The composites were subjected to tensile test. Experimental results showed the improvements in tensile strength and modulus by increasing the SCF content of the hybrid composite. The theoretical tensile strength was predicted based on Kelly–Tyson model and rule of hybrid mixture. Kelly–Tyson model showed to be a good approximation to predict the tensile strength of composite. When the SCF was replaced by milled carbon fiber (MCF) to form a PC/SGF/MCF hybrid system, poorer mechanical properties are reported due to the weaker interfacial adhesion between MCF and PC, as proven by the scanning electron microscopy. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1238–1248, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation of multiscale graphene oxide‐carbon fabric and its effect on mechanical properties of hierarchical epoxy resin composite
Authors: He Pingge , Huang Boyun , Liu Lei , Huang Qun , Chen Tengfei
Published: December 2014

Graphene oxide (GO) was used to modify the surface of carbon fiber layers through electrophoretic deposition, forming a multiscale reinforcement fabric. By adjusting the experimental parameters, the resulting GO‐carbon fabric showed productive and homogenous distribution of thin and less‐agglomerate GO platelets on carbon fiber surface, remarkably enlarging the surface area and roughness of carbon fabric. To investigate the effect of GO sheets on composites, GO‐carbon fabric and carbon fabric‐reinforced hierarchical epoxy resin composites were respectively manufactured. Mechanical tests demonstrated that after introducing GO flakes on carbon fabric, both the flexural strength and interlaminar shear strength of composite had achieved an increase, especially the interlaminar shear strength rising by 34%. Through fractography analysis, it was found that in pure carbon fabric‐reinforced epoxy composite, the fiber/matrix debonding fracture mechanism predominated, while after the GO decoration on carbon fiber surface, the composite featured a stronger interfacial bonding, leading to the enhancement in mechanical properties of hierarchical epoxy resin composite. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1515–1522, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Experimental investigation on mechanical properties of extruded foamed PVC‐wood composites reinforced with continuous glass fibers
Authors: Kargar Mahmoud , Behravesh Amir Hossein , Mohammad Taheri Hossein
Published: December 2014

In this study, mechanical performances of extruded foamed and unfoamed PVC‐wood composites, reinforced with continuous glass fibers, were investigated. A specially designed die was used to incorporate the continuous glass rovings into the extruded rectangular shaped profiles. The experimental variables were the number of continuous glass rovings (0–2‐4) and the presence or absence of the chemical foaming agent. Three point bending tests as well as density measurements were conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties and density reduction upon foaming. The results showed that the flexural strength of the reinforced profiles was significantly increased, as 58% increase in flexural strength was noticed for wood plastic composites (WPCs) reinforced with four glass rovings. The highest density reduction (14%) was observed upon foaming for profiles reinforced with four glass rovings, while resulting in strength deterioration. Moreover, results revealed the remarkable effect of reinforcement on preserving mechanical performance of the foamed samples, as 88% increase in flexural strength of the foamed samples reinforced with four glass rovings was observed compared with the unreinforced foamed ones. For the foamed WPCs reinforced with even two glass rovings, the higher specific strength values were also noticed compared to the unreinforced and unfoamed samples. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1674–1680, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of nanostructures of modified clay–carbon black on physico‐mechanical, electrical, and acoustic properties of elastomer‐based composites
Authors: Annadurai P. , Kumar S. , Mukundan T. , Joseph Rani , Sarkar P. , Chattopadhyay S.
Published: December 2014

Elastomeric composites based on nitrile rubber (NBR), carbon black (CB), and organically modified nanoclay (NC) were prepared using a laboratory two‐roll mixing mill. Influences of the hybrid filler system (CB+NC) on various properties of NBR compound were analyzed. It was found that the addition of hybrid filler (CB+NC) over only carbon black enhances various properties. It was also found that the addition of nanoclay to the rubber matrix effectively improved key properties. Acoustics and electrical properties were modified with reduced water absorption because of layered clay platelets. The lower volume resistivity of NBR composites reflected better electrical conductivity attributed to the presence of nanoclay leading to effective filler connectivity. X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy measurements revealed that nanoclays were mostly intercalated and were uniformly dispersed. Use of calcium stearate facilitated dispersion of nanoclay in the rubber matrix which was observed through the formation of nanostructures including “nano” and “halo” units. Time temperature superposition in dynamic mechanical analysis test of the composites indicated lower mechanical loss in the frequency range of interest. The advantages accruing due to overall property enhancement, including lower water absorption, and better electrical and excellent acoustic properties of NBR composites make it suitable as underwater acoustic transparent materials for transducer encapsulation application. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:1786–1796, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effective quantum electrodynamics hamiltonians: A tutorial review
Authors: Liu Wenjian
Published: December 2014

A “with‐pair, no‐retardation” relativistic many‐electron Hamiltonian, that is, effective quantum electrodynamics (eQED) Hamiltonian, can be constructed both algebraically and diagrammatically, in a bottom‐up fashion without recourse to QED itself. It describes all virtual pair effects due to the instantaneous Coulomb/Gaunt/Breit interaction and is compatible with all wave function or density functional based correlation methods. As such, it serves as the basis for “with‐pair relativistic quantum chemistry”, which is an extension of the traditional “no‐pair relativistic quantum chemistry.” Regardless of the numerical significance of the (nonradiative) virtual pair effects, such an extension represents a conceptually important step for going beyond the no‐pair approximation that has been prevailing in relativistic electronic structure calculations of molecular systems. Due to the short range nature, the effective potential Q describing electron vacuum polarization (EVP) and self‐energy (ESE) can be fitted into a model operator, which can be included in variational self‐consistent field calculations. The subsequent treatments of electron correlation and properties can then be simplified greatly. That is, the major QED effects, including EVP and ESE as well as the Coulomb/Gaunt/Breit screenings of them, can be obtained with little overhead over standard no‐pair calculations. It can hence be envisaged that “molecular QED” will soon emerge as a new and exciting field for ultrahigh precision calculations of molecular spectroscopies and dynamics. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of Oxidizing Slag on Cleanliness of IF Steel during Ladle Holding Process
Authors: Qin Yiming , Wang Xinhua , Li Linping , Huang Fuxiang
Published: December 2014

The effect of oxidizing slag on cleanliness of IF steel produced by ShouGang during ladle holding process was investigated by comparing the differences of slag composition, steel composition and inclusion morphology between two processes of different slag oxidability(Process‐A < Process‐B). The results showed that, the reoxidation of slag to steel was observed during holding process, and Process‐A with the lower slag oxidability was more helpful to improve the cleanliness of molten steel during holding process by comparing the T.O of the two processes. Due to the slag reoxidation during holding process, the large petal shaped and dendritic Al2O3 inclusions generated for Process‐A, and both the numbers of Al2O3 and Al2O3‐TixO inclusions increased significantly for Process‐B. In order to slow down reoxidation rate and improve the ability of slag to absorb inclusions, (FeO) content should be reduced and (CaO)/(Al2O3) should be increased in the case of liquid slag. In conclusion, whether prolonging ladle holding time should depend on (FeO) content, (CaO)/(Al2O3) etc. parameters of slag and initial T.O of molten steel.
MicroRNA-199b Modulates Vascular Cell Fate During iPS Cell Differentiation by Targeting the Notch Ligand Jagged1 and Enhancing VEGF Signaling
Authors: Chen Ting , Margariti Andriana , Kelaini Sophia , Cochrane Amy , Guha Shaunta T. , Hu Yanhua , Stitt Alan W. , Zhang Li , Xu Qingbo
Published: December 2014

Aims: Recent ability to derive endothelial cells (ECs) from induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells holds a great therapeutic potential for personalized medicine and stem cell therapy. We aimed that better understanding of the complex molecular signals that are evoked during iPS cell differentiation toward ECs may allow specific targeting of their activities to enhance cell differentiation and promote tissue regeneration. Methods and Results: In this study, we have generated mouse iPS cells from fibroblasts using established protocol. When iPS cells were cultivated on type IV mouse collagen-coated dishes in differentiation medium, cell differentiation toward vascular lineages were observed. To study the molecular mechanisms of iPS cell differentiation, we found that miR-199b is involved in EC differentiation. A step-wise increase in expression of miR-199 was detected during EC differentiation. Notably, miR-199b targeted the Notch ligand JAG1, resulting in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) transcriptional activation and secretion through the transcription factor STAT3. Upon shRNA-mediated knockdown of the Notch ligand JAG1, the regulatory effect of miR-199b was ablated and there was robust induction of STAT3 and VEGF during EC differentiation. Knockdown of JAG1 also inhibited miR-199b-mediated inhibition of iPS cell differentiation toward smooth muscle markers. Using the in vitro tube formation assay and implanted Matrigel plugs, in vivo, miR-199b also regulated VEGF expression and angiogenesis. Conclusions: This study indicates a novel role for miR-199b as a regulator of the phenotypic switch during vascular cell differentiation derived from iPS cells by regulating critical signaling angiogenic responses. Stem Cells  2015;33:1405–1418
Vitamin C Facilitates Dopamine Neuron Differentiation in Fetal Midbrain Through TET1- and JMJD3-Dependent Epigenetic Control Manner
Authors: He Xi-Biao , Kim Mirang , Kim Seon-Young , Yi Sang-Hoon , Rhee Yong-Hee , Kim Taeho , Lee Eun-Hye , Park Chang-Hwan , Dixit Shilpy , Harrison Fiona E. , Lee Sang-Hun
Published: December 2014

Intracellular Vitamin C (VC) is maintained at high levels in the developing brain by the activity of sodium-dependent VC transporter 2 (Svct2), suggesting specific VC functions in brain development. A role of VC as a cofactor for Fe(II)-2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases has recently been suggested. We show that VC supplementation in neural stem cell cultures derived from embryonic midbrains greatly enhanced differentiation toward midbrain-type dopamine (mDA) neurons, the neuronal subtype associated with Parkinson's disease. VC induced gain of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) and loss of H3K27m3 in DA phenotype gene promoters, which are catalyzed by Tet1 and Jmjd3, respectively. Consequently, VC enhanced DA phenotype gene transcriptions in the progenitors by Nurr1, a transcription factor critical for mDA neuron development, to be more accessible to the gene promoters. Further mechanism studies including Tet1 and Jmjd3 knockdown/inhibition experiments revealed that both the 5hmC and H3K27m3 changes, specifically in the progenitor cells, are indispensible for the VC-mediated mDA neuron differentiation. We finally show that in Svct2 knockout mouse embryos, mDA neuron formation in the developing midbrain decreased along with the 5hmC/H3k27m3 changes. These findings together indicate an epigenetic role of VC in midbrain DA neuron development. Stem Cells  2015;33:1320–1332
Computational challenges, tools, and resources for analyzing co‐ and post‐transcriptional events in high throughput
Authors: Bahrami‐Samani Emad , Vo Dat T. , de Araujo Patricia Rosa , Vogel Christine , Smith Andrew D. , Penalva Luiz O. F. , Uren Philip J.
Published: December 2014

Co‐ and post‐transcriptional regulation of gene expression is complex and multifaceted, spanning the complete RNA lifecycle from genesis to decay. High‐throughput profiling of the constituent events and processes is achieved through a range of technologies that continue to expand and evolve. Fully leveraging the resulting data is nontrivial, and requires the use of computational methods and tools carefully crafted for specific data sources and often intended to probe particular biological processes. Drawing upon databases of information pre‐compiled by other researchers can further elevate analyses. Within this review, we describe the major co‐ and post‐transcriptional events in the RNA lifecycle that are amenable to high‐throughput profiling. We place specific emphasis on the analysis of the resulting data, in particular the computational tools and resources available, as well as looking toward future challenges that remain to be addressed. WIREs RNA 2015, 6:291–310. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1274

This article is categorized under:

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA
Distance-dependent switching of anti-predator behavior of frogs from immobility to fleeing
Authors: Nishiumi Nozomi , Mori Akira
Published: December 2014

To avoid predation, many animals are required to appropriately switch between immobility for crypsis and fleeing for escape. We conducted two staged-encounter experiments using a frog and a snake to examine factors that affect the occurrence of immobility and fleeing, and to evaluate the efficiency of them. The first experiment demonstrated that frogs initially exhibit immobility, when snakes are moving at a long distance, and then switch from immobility to fleeing at a shorter distance even when snakes have not detected them. The second experiment demonstrated that snakes at 400–800 mm distance detect only fleeing frogs, whereas snakes at 100 mm or closer detect both immobile and fleeing frogs. Thus, the ability of snakes to detect motionless frogs depends on the distance, and the distance-dependent switching can be considered an adaptive strategy of the frog. However, a previous model predicts that cryptic prey should flee immediately on seeing a predator or not flee until being detected by the predator. To explain this discordance, we propose two factors: engagement of intensive searching mode by predator at short distance and effects of sudden fleeing at close distance. We suggest incorporating them in future theory for better understanding of anti-predator strategy.
Solitary, Adult-Onset, Intraosseous Myofibroma of the Finger: Report of a Case and Review of Literature
Authors: Ma Yihong , Siegal Gene P. , Wei Shi
Published: December 2014

Myofibroma is a rare benign neoplasm of myofibroblastic origin. It typically occurs in the skin and subcutaneous tissues of the head and neck in infants and young children as multicentric lesions known as infantile myofibromatosis. Intraosseous myofibromas are very rare and are typically destructive lesions that predominantly affect craniofacial bones in the setting of myofibromatosis. Solitary, intraosseous myofibromas in adults are exceedingly rare. Herein, we report a myofibroma involving the middle phalanx of the right index finger in a 58-year-old man who presented with a pathologic fracture. Twelve other cases of adult-onset, intraosseous myofibroma were compiled from the English language literature and integrated with this report.
Acquisition of the pulmonary venous and left atrial anatomy with non‐contrast‐enhanced MRI for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation: Usefulness of two‐dimensional balanced steady‐state free precession
Authors: Shigenaga Yutaka , Kiuchi Kunihiko , Okajima Katsunori , Ikeuchi Kazushi , Ikeda Takayuki , Shimane Akira , Yokoi Kiminobu , Teranishi Jin , Aoki Kousuke , Chimura Misato , Masai Hideyuki , Yamada Shinichiro , Taniguchi Yasuyo , Yasaka Yoshinori , Kawai Hiroya
Published: December 2014

Background

Usually, the pulmonary venous and left atrial (PV–LA) anatomy is assessed with contrast‐enhanced computed tomographic imaging for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). A non‐contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging method has not been established. Three‐dimensional balanced steady‐state free precession (3D b‐SSFP) sequences cannot visualize the PV–LA anatomy simultaneously because of the signal intensity defect of pulmonary veins. We compared two‐dimensional (2D) b‐SSFP sequences with 3D b‐SSFP sequences in depicting the PV–LA anatomy with non‐contrast‐enhanced MR imaging for AF ablation.

Methods

Eleven healthy volunteers underwent non‐contrast‐enhanced MR imaging with 3D b‐SSFP and 2D b‐SSFP sequences. The MR images were reconstructed on the 3D PV–LA surface image. Two experienced radiological technicians independently scored the multiplanar reformatted (MPR) images on a scale of 1–4 (from 1, not visualized, to 4, excellent definition). The overall score was a sum of 5 segments (LA and 4 PVs).

Results

In the 2D b‐SSFP method, MR imaging was successfully performed, and the 3D PV–LA surface image was precisely reconstructed in all healthy volunteers. The image score was significantly higher in the 2D b‐SSFP method compared to the 3D b‐SSFP method (19 [19; 20] vs. 12 [11; 15], p=0.004, for both observers). No PV signal intensity defects occurred in the 2D b‐SSFP method.

Conclusions

The 2D b‐SSFP sequence was more useful than the 3D b‐SSFP sequence in adequately depicting the PV–LA anatomy.
Energy and nutrient intakes in a sample of 136 Edinburgh 7–8 year olds: a comparison with United Kingdom dietary reference values
Authors: Ruxton C. H. S. , Kirk T. R. , Belton N. R.
Published: December 2014

Energy and nutrient intakes were assessed in 136 children, aged 7–8 years and living in and around Edinburgh, using the 7 d weighed inventory technique. The results were compared with UK dietary reference values (DRV) for energy, macronutrients and micronutrients. NSP intakes were compared with a calculated reference value (CRV). Mean energy intakes were close to the estimated average requirement for both boys and girls. Mean percentages of food energy derived from fat and saturated fat were high in relation to DRV (37 and 14 compared with 35 and 11 respectively). Mean percentage of food energy derived from total carbohydrate was close to the DRV of 50 but intakes of starch appeared to be low and intakes of total sugars high (23 and 26% food energy respectively). Superficially, this suggests that there is a need to alter the balance of carbohydrate in favour of increasing starch and lowering total sugar. There was, however, a clear ‘fat-sugar seesaw’, i.e. children with a high percentage energy from total sugars had a low percentage energy from fat, and vice versa. In view of this finding, it is possible that efforts to reduce total sugar intake in children may result in a further increase in percentage energy from fat. Mean intakes of NSP were only 50% of the CRV, but this guideline may be set too high. Mean intakes of most micronutrients were above reference nutrient intakes. Reported low intakes of Zn and Se were treated with caution due to the perceived incompleteness of the data for these in the nutrient database. The authors concluded that targeting high intakes of total fat and saturated fat should be the health priorities in this age-group.
Metabolic and endocrine changes induced by chronic heatexposure in broiler chickens: growth performance, body composition and energy retention
Authors: Geraert P. A. , Padilha J. C. F. , Guillaumin S.
Published: December 2014

The present study was performed in order to investigate the effect of chronic heat exposure (32",constant) on growth, body composition and energy retention of broiler chickens in relation to age. At 2and 4 weeks of age, fifty-four male Shaver broiler chickens were allocated to three treatments accordingto the following design: 22", ad lib. feeding (22AL); 32", ad lib. feeding (32AL); and 22", pair-feeding with the 32" group (22PF). Ambient temperature was kept constant at either 22 or 32" for 2 weeks. Heatexposure decreased feed intake by 14% YO between 2 and 4 weeks and by 24% YO between 4 and 6 weeks of age. Even with the same feed intake, chicks gained less weight at 32" than at 22", 55% less in young chickens and 22% less in older ones. Hot environmental conditions thus resulted in decreased feed efficiency; the feed:gain ratio was 2·85 at 32" compared with 2·06 at 22" in 22AL birds for the period4—6 weeks. Body composition appeared significantly affected by high ambient temperature. Feathering was reduced at 32" in absolute weight but not as a proportion of body weight. Heat-exposed birds showed a decrease in body protein content, protein gain and protein retention. Group 32AL birds were fatter than the pair-fed (22PF) or ad fib.-fed (22AL) groups at 22". The percentage of energy retained as fat was 79 in heat-exposed chickens compared with 64 in the control groups. The energy retained as protein:energy retained as fat for groups maintained at 22" (0·56) was twice that forthose maintained at 32" (0·28). These modifications should be investigated further in relation to metabolic and endocrinological changes.