bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topography and landmarks for the nerve supply to the levator ani and its relevance to pelvic floor pathologies
Authors: Loukas Marios , Joseph Shamfa , Etienne Denzil , Linganna Sanjay , Hallner Barry , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was to explore the anatomical variations of the nerve to the levator ani (LA) and to relate these findings to LA dysfunction. One hundred fixed human female cadavers were dissected using transabdominal, gluteal, and perineal approaches, resulting in two hundred dissections of the sacral plexus. The pudendal nerve and the sacral nerve roots were traced from their origin at the sacral foramina to their termination. All nerves contributing to the innervation of the LA were considered to be the nerve to the LA. Based on the spinal nerve components, the nerve to the LA was classified into the following categories: 50% (n = 100) originated from S4 and S5 (type I); 19% (n = 38) originated from S5 (type II); 16% (n = 32) originated from S4 (type III); 11% (n = 22) originated from S3 and S4 (type IV); 4% (n = 8) originated from S3, S4, and S5 (type V). Two patterns of nerve termination were observed. In 42% of specimens, the nerve to the LA penetrated the coccygeus muscle and assumed an external position along the inferior surface of the LA muscle. In the remaining 58% of specimens, the nerve crossed the superior surface of the coccygeus muscle and continued along the superior surface of the iliococcygeus muscle. Damage to the nerve to LA has been associated with various pathologies. In order to minimize injuries during surgical procedures, a thorough understanding of the course and variations of the nerve to the LA is extremely important. Clin. Anat. 29:516–523, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of vinculin in cellular mechanotransduction
Authors: Goldmann Wolfgang H.
Published: November 2015

Cell–matrix adhesion and cell–cell contacts are essential for the metabolism, protein synthesis, survival, and cancer metastasis of cells. Major transmembrane receptors are the integrins, which are responsible for cell–matrix adhesions, and the cadherins, which are important for cell–cell adhesions. Adherent cells anchor via focal adhesion proteins to the extracellular matrix, whereas cell–cell contacts connect via focal adherens junction proteins. The temporal formation of these connections is greatly strengthened either through externally applied stresses on the cell or by myosin‐driven cell contractility. The mechanism by which protein(s) within these connections sense, transmit, and respond to mechanochemical signaling is currently strongly debated and various candidates have been named. Vinculin has been described as one of the key players in cell–matrix and cell–cell adhesions that build a strong physical connection for transmitting forces between the cytoskeleton, the extracellular matrix, and cell–cell connections.
Poor mobility independently predicts mortality in TAVI: Are we closer to a universal definition for frailty?
Authors: Chandrasekhar Jaya , Mehran Roxana
Published: November 2015

Key Points

Frailty assessment aids appropriate patient selection for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). An uncumbersome and easy to use evaluation tool is needed to facilitate wider uptake among TAVI teams.

Mobility assessment by the euroSCORE definition can be utilized as a one‐point measure and may be indicative of short‐ and long‐term outcomes post TAVI.

Frailty is an evolving concept and further data are warranted, with validation across regions to determine a gold standard.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Characterization of N‐Substituted 2‐Hydroxypyrrolidine/Piperidine Derivatives Using Cerium Chloride as Catalyst.
Authors: Suresh M. , Khader K. K. Abdul , Chandrasekaran T. , Padusha M. Syed Ali
Published: November 2015

The title derivatives are obtained by a highly efficient one‐pot domino reaction via C—N cross‐coupling reaction starting from various heterocyclic amines and dihydrofuran or dihydropyran.
Verteilungsgleichgewichte von Liganden in mizellaren Lösungsmittelsystemen
Authors: Schmidt Marcel , Pogrezba Tobias , Stehl Dmitrij , Sachse René , Schwarze Michael , von Klitzing Regine , Schomäcker Reinhard
Published: November 2015

Im Rahmen des Sonderforschungsbereichs SFB/TRR 63 „InPROMPT”︁ (Integrierte chemische Prozesse in flüssigen Mehrphasensystemen) wird der Einsatz mizellarer Lösungsmittelsysteme als schaltbare mehrphasige Reaktionsmedien für die homogene Katalyse untersucht. In diesem Beitrag wird das Verteilungsgleichgewicht von vier repräsentativen Liganden in unterschiedlichen wässrig‐mizellaren Systemen analysiert und die Abhängigkeit ihrer Verteilung – und damit auch der eines homogen gelösten Katalysators – in den einzelnen Phasen dieser Mehrphasensysteme diskutiert. Die Kenntnis der Verteilungskoeffizienten ist von entscheidender Bedeutung für eine effiziente und quantitative Katalysatorrückführung in wässrig‐mizellaren Systemen.
Impaired cortical neurogenesis in plexin‐B1 and ‐B2 double deletion mutant
Authors: Daviaud Nicolas , Chen Karen , Huang Yong , Friedel Roland H. , Zou Hongyan
Published: November 2015

Mammalian cortical expansion is tightly controlled by fine‐tuning of proliferation and differentiation of neural progenitors in a region‐specific manner. How extrinsic cues interface with cell‐intrinsic programs to balance proliferative versus neurogenic decisions remains an unsolved question. We examined the function of Semaphorin receptors Plexin‐B1 and ‐B2 in corticogenesis by generating double mutants, whereby Plexin‐B2 was conditionally ablated in the developing brain in a Plexin‐B1 null mutant background. Absence of both Plexin‐Bs resulted in cortical thinning, particularly in the caudomedial cortex. Plexin‐B1/B2 double, but not single, mutants exhibited a reduced neural progenitor pool, attributable to decreased proliferation and an altered division mode favoring cell cycle exit. This resulted in deficient production of neurons throughout the neurogenic period, proportionally affecting all cortical laminae. Consistent with the in vivo data, cultured neural progenitors lacking both Plexin‐B1 and ‐B2 displayed decreased proliferative capacity and increased spontaneous differentiation. Our study therefore defines a novel function of Plexin‐B1 and ‐B2 in transmitting extrinsic signals to maintain proliferative and undifferentiated states of neural progenitors. As single mutants displayed no apparent cortical defects, we conclude that Plexin‐B1 and ‐B2 play redundant or compensatory roles during forebrain development to ensure proper neuronal production and neocortical expansion. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 76: 882–899, 2016
Lmo4 and Other LIM domain only factors are necessary and sufficient for multiple retinal cell type development
Authors: Jin Kangxin , Xiao Dongchang , Andersen Bogi , Xiang Mengqing
Published: November 2015

Understanding the molecular basis by which distinct cell types are specified is a central issue in retinogenesis and retinal disease development. Here we examined the role of LIM domain only 4 (Lmo4) in retinal development using both gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function approaches. By immunostaining, Lmo4 was found to be expressed in mouse retina from E10.5 to mature stages. Retroviral delivery of Lmo4 into retinal progenitor cells could promote the amacrine, bipolar and Müller cell fates at the expense of photoreceptors. It also inhibited the fate of early‐born retinal ganglion cells. Using a dominant‐negative form of Lmo4 which suppresses transcriptional activities of all LIM domain only factors, we demonstrated that LIM domain only factors are both necessary and sufficient for promoting amacrine and bipolar cell development, but not for the differentiation of ganglion, horizontal, Müller, or photoreceptor cells. Taken together, our study uncovers multiple roles of Lmo4 during retinal development and demonstrates the importance of LIM domain only factors in ensuring proper retinal cell specification and differentiation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 76: 900–915, 2016
Drought and shade deplete nonstructural carbohydrate reserves in seedlings of five temperate tree species
Authors: Maguire Andrea J. , Kobe Richard K.
Published: November 2015

Plants that store nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) may rely on carbon reserves to survive carbon‐limiting stress, assuming that reserves can be mobilized. We asked whether carbon reserves decrease in resource stressed seedlings, and ifNSCallocation is related to species' relative stress tolerances. We tested the effects of stress (shade, drought, and defoliation) onNSCin seedlings of five temperate tree species (Acer rubrumMarsh.,Betula papyriferaMarsh.,Fraxinus americanaL.,Quercus rubraL., andQuercus velutinaLam.). In a greenhouse experiment, seedlings were subjected to combinations of shade, drought, and defoliation. We harvested seedlings over 32–97 days and measured biomass andNSCconcentrations in stems and roots to estimate depletion rates. For all species and treatments, except for defoliation, seedling growth andNSCaccumulation ceased. Shade and drought combined caused totalNSCdecreases in all species. For shade or drought alone, only some species experienced decreases. Starch followed similar patterns as totalNSC, but soluble sugars increased under drought for drought‐tolerant species. These results provide evidence that species deplete stored carbon in response to carbon limiting stress and that species differences inNSCresponse may be important for understanding carbon depletion as a buffer against shade‐ and drought‐induced mortality.
Portable Microfluidic System for Rapid Genetic Testing
Authors: NAGAI HIDENORI , FUCHIWAKI YUSUKE
Published: November 2015

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a key technology of genetic testing, but the long thermal cycling time has been a problem in achieving rapid diagnosis of pathogenic organisms and cancer. We describe a simple, portable, and rapid genetic testing system based on ultrafast segment flow and fluorescent detection. In particular, we improved the flow‐through PCR to accelerate the thermal cycling time and simplify the operation for practical use. The PCR solution was injected in a small volume of about several microliters by an air syringe, and flowed as segment flow. The segment of PCR solution was moved in a serpentine microchannel on a microfluidic device over two temperature zones for denaturation and annealing/extension reactions. The base plate formed upon the serpentine microchannel pattern was made of cyclo‐olefin polymer (COP) and covered with a thin transparent film. Furthermore, a specialized portable system was developed for the microfluidic device of a segment‐flow PCR. Heater units, a syringe pump, a fluorescence detector, and PC were integrated in a suitcase for portable use. Using this portable system, a microorganism modeling anthrax and a point mutation of FGFR3 gene were successfully detected within 6.5 min.
Self‐Align Fabrication of Narrow‐Gapped Dual AFM Tip Using Si Trench Refilling with SOG and Magnetostrictive Film Stacked Dual Cantilever Formation
Authors: KAWASHIMA KENTA , MINETA TAKASHI , MAKINO EIJI , KAWASHIMA TAKAHIRO , SHIBATA TAKAYUKI
Published: November 2015

This paper reports on a novel self‐align fabrication process of narrow‐gapped dual AFM (atomic force microscope) tip. The dual AFM tip was fabricated on (100) orientated Si substrate by using narrow trench etching, trench refilling with SOG (spin‐on‐glass), CMP (chemical–mechanical polishing), and Si crystalline anisotropic etching. Through the process, a sharp dual AFM tip with a gap of 500 nm, which was defined only by the etched trench width, was successfully fabricated. Although another fabrication process using an acrylic‐nitrile‐styrene‐epoxy resin refilling was also attempted, a dual tip was not obtained due to the poor adhesion of the resin in the silicon etching process. In addition, a dual AFM cantilever (magnetostrictive film/Si 2.0 μm) was formed by MEMS fabrication. The fabricated FePd 0.4 μm/Si 2.0 μm and Ni 1.3 μm/Si 2.0 μm cantilever were individually deflected to 1.4 μm at 300 Gauss and 0.4 μm at 240 Gauss due to effects of magnetic flux and negative magnetostriction, respectively.
Comparison of One‐ and Zero‐Dimensional Reaction Models of Liquid‐Phase Radicals for Plasma Generated on Gas–Liquid Interface
Authors: TAKEUCHI NOZOMI
Published: November 2015

One‐ and zero‐dimensional (0D) numerical models of plasma generated over a solution were established. Gas‐ and liquid‐phase reactions and mass transfer through a gas–liquid interface for OH radical, hydrogen peroxide, and HO2 radical were considered, and the decomposition of acetic acid in water was evaluated. In a 1D model with a small diffusion coefficient (10−9 m2/s) in liquid phase, the diffusion rate was the rate‐limiting factor of the decomposition of acetic acid. With such a small diffusion coefficient, the concentrations of OH radical and acetic acid in the 0D model showed large differences from those in the 1D model. When the time scale of diffusion in the liquid phase was shorter than that of the decomposition reaction between OH radical and acetic acid, reasonable results were obtained in the 0D model.
Determination of Adjacent Nodes for Power‐Efficient Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: KAMIMURA KOHEI , HAYASHI HITOSHI , HATAUCHI TAKAAKI
Published: November 2015

This paper proposes a method for determination of adjacent nodes to facilitate the formation of power‐efficient wireless sensor networks that are robust to channel variations caused by movement in the surrounding communication environment. Whereas conventional methods determine adjacent nodes in wireless sensor networks using one ID packet, our proposed method uses several ID packets that are collected in link investigation cycles. This method improves the battery life of the overall network system and thereby facilitates highly‐reliable communication networks.
Characteristics of an Underwater Plasma Source with a Porous Glass Membrane
Authors: SHIOMITSU EIICHI , SAKODA TATSUYA
Published: November 2015

The advanced oxidation process (AOP) with hydroxyl radicals (OH) is considered to be useful for water purification through oxidation; therefore, we proposed an underwater plasma source with a porous glass membrane which performed the functions of bubble supply and the formation of microdischarges. We observed bubble formation and light emission from discharges on the surface of the membrane using a high‐speed camera and a spectroscope, respectively. In addition, the dependence of gas pressure on the generation of OH radical and the decomposition of recalcitrant organic matter were examined. The obtained results showed that AOP may be more effective when the operating gas pressure is set higher than a pressure which could form bubbles.
A High‐Performance Supercapacitor with Well‐Dispersed Bi2O3 Nanospheres and Active‐Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Li Jiangfeng , Wu Qingsheng , Zan Guangtao
Published: November 2015

A simple and low‐cost method to fabricate Bi2O3/active‐carbon nanocomposites with high capacitive properties was explored. In particular, the composites synthesized at a bismuth nitrate/active carbon weight ratio of 2:1 exhibited a maximum specific capacitance of 466 F g–1 at a current density of 1 A g–1 and retained up to 335 F g–1 even at a current density of 5 A g–1. In addition, these composites also showed good capacity over 3000 cycles. The excellent electrochemical properties could be due to their high specific surface area, abundant pore volume, and proper loading of Bi2O3 nanospheres.
Capsaicin 8% patch versus oral pregabalin in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain
Authors: Haanpää M. , Cruccu G. , Nurmikko T.J. , McBride W.T. , Docu Axelarad A. , Bosilkov A. , Chambers C. , Ernault E. , Abdulahad A.K.
Published: November 2015

Background

Clinical trials have not yet compared the efficacy of capsaicin 8% patch with current standard therapy in peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP).

Objectives

Head‐to‐head efficacy and safety trial comparing the capsaicin patch with pregabalin in PNP.

Methods

Open‐label, randomized, multicentre, non‐inferiority trial. Patients with PNP, aged 18–80 years, were randomly assigned to either the capsaicin 8% patch (n = 282) or an optimised dose of oral pregabalin (n = 277), and assessed for a ≥30% mean decrease in Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) score from baseline to Week 8. Secondary endpoints included optimal therapeutic effect (OTE), time‐to‐onset of pain relief and treatment satisfaction.

Results

The capsaicin 8% patch was non‐inferior to pregabalin in achievement of a ≥30% mean decrease in NPRS score from baseline to Week 8 (55.7% vs. 54.5%, respectively; Odds ratio: 1.03 [95% CI: 0.72, 1.50]). The proportion of patients achieving OTE at Week 8 was 52.1% for the capsaicin 8% patch versus 44.8% for pregabalin (difference: 7.3%; 95% CI: −0.9%, 15.6%). The median time‐to‐onset of pain relief was significantly shorter for capsaicin 8% patch versus pregabalin (7.5 vs. 36.0 days; Hazard ratio: 1.68 [95% CI: 1.35, 2.08]; p < 0.0001). Treatment satisfaction was also significantly greater with the capsaicin 8% patch versus pregabalin. TEAEs were mild‐to‐moderate in severity, and resulted in treatment discontinuation only with pregabalin (n = 24). Systemic adverse drug reactions ranged from 0 to 1.1% with capsaicin 8% patch and 2.5 to 18.4% with pregabalin.

Conclusions

The capsaicin 8% patch provided non‐inferior pain relief to an optimized dose of pregabalin in PNP, with a faster onset of action, fewer systemic side effects and greater treatment satisfaction.
Hybrid RSS/AOA hypothesis test for NLOS/LOS base station discrimination and location error mitigation
Authors: Gazzah Leïla , Najjar Leïla , Besbes Hichem
Published: November 2015

We address the problem of line of sight/no line of sight (LOS/NLOS) identification in a hybrid context where received signal strength and angle of arrival (RSS/AOA) measurements are combined. Two approaches are proposed, which aim to mitigate the range bias introduced by NLOS propagation. First, a hybrid hypothesis test (HHT) is proposed whose aim is to identify the most probable two Base Stations (BSs) to be LOS. The HHT considers an error function incorporating both RSS and AOA measurements. If the HHT succeeds in identifying two LOS BSs, then it directly proceeds to localisation. Otherwise, the HHT identifies, the two least probable BSs to be NLOS, over which a weighting approach will be applied. The weighting indeed serves to attenuate at a some degree, the NLOS propagation effect and then correct the location. In the first scenario, NLOS are completely discarded, whereas in the second one, their effect is attenuated, thus improving the location accuracy in both cases. Simulations results corroborate the expected performance enhancement. Fundamental performance limits for the localisation accuracy based on such hybrid measurements are evaluated through the corresponding Cramer–Rao lower bound. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of conventional milling on the nutritional value and antioxidant capacity of wheat types common in Ethiopia and a recovery attempt with bran supplementation in bread
Authors: Heshe Genet Gebremedhin , Haki Gulelat Desse , Woldegiorgis Ashagrie Zewdu , Gemede Habtamu Fekadu
Published: November 2015

The effect of wheat flour refined milling on nutritional and antioxidant quality of hard and soft grown in Ethiopia was evaluated. Bread was prepared with the supplementation of the white wheat flour with different levels (0%, 10%, 20%, and 25%) of wheat bran. Whole (100% extraction) and white wheat (68% extraction) flours were analyzed for proximates, minerals, and antioxidants. Results indicated that at a low extraction rate (68%), the protein, fat, fiber, ash, iron, zinc, phosphorous, and antioxidant contents of the samples significantly (P < 0.05) decreased by milling. The TPC (total phenolic content) of the white wheat flours, which ranged from 3.34 to 3.49 mg GAE (gallic acid equivalent)/g, was significantly (P < 0.005) lower than those of the whole wheat flours, whose TPC ranged from 7.66 to 8.20 GAE/g). At 50 mg/mL, the DPPH (2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) scavenging effect of the wheat extracts decreased in the order of soft whole, hard whole, soft white, and hard white wheat flour, which was 90.39, 89.89, 75.80, and 57.57%, respectively. Moreover, the proximate and mineral contents of the bran‐supplemented breads increased significantly (P < 0.05) with the bran level of the bread, and the highest values (protein, 12.0 g/100 g; fat, 2.6 g/100 g; fiber, 2.5 g/100 g; ash, 3.3 g/100 g; iron, 4.8 mg/100 g and zinc, 2.33 mg/100 g) were found in 25% bran supplemented bread. The sensory evaluation of bread showed that all the supplementation levels had a mean score above 4 for all preferences on a 7‐ point hedonic scale. The results indicated that refined milling at 68% extraction significantly reduces the nutritional and antioxidant activity of the wheat flours. Bread of good nutritional and sensory qualities can be produced from 10% and 20% bran supplementations.
Development of neural basis for chinese orthographic neighborhood size effect
Authors: Zhao Jing , Li Qing‐Lin , Ding Guo‐Sheng , Bi Hong‐Yan
Published: November 2015

The brain activity of orthographic neighborhood size (N size) effect in Chinese character naming has been studied in adults, meanwhile behavioral studies have revealed a developmental trend of Chinese N‐size effect in developing readers. However, it is unclear whether and how the neural mechanism of N‐size effect changes in Chinese children along with development. Here we address this issue using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Forty‐four students from the 3rd, 5th, and 7th grades were scanned during silent naming of Chinese characters. After scanning, all participants took part in an overt naming test outside the scanner, and results of the naming task showed that the 3rd graders named characters from large neighborhoods faster than those from small neighborhoods, revealing a facilitatory N‐size effect; the 5th graders showed null N‐size effect while the 7th graders showed an inhibitory N‐size effect. Neuroimaging results revealed that only the 3rd graders exhibited a significant N‐size effect in the left middle occipital activity, with greater activation for large N‐size characters. Results of 5th and 7th graders showed significant N‐size effects in the left middle frontal gyrus, in which 5th graders induced greater activation in large N‐size condition than in small N‐size condition, while 7th graders exhibited an opposite effect which was similar to the adult pattern reported in a previous study. The current findings suggested the transition from broadly tuned to finely tuned orthographic representation with reading development, and the inhibition from neighbors' phonology for higher graders. Hum Brain Mapp 37:632–647, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictions interact with missing sensory evidence in semantic processing areas
Authors: Scharinger Mathias , Bendixen Alexandra , Herrmann Björn , Henry Molly J. , Mildner Toralf , Obleser Jonas
Published: November 2015

Human brain function draws on predictive mechanisms that exploit higher‐level context during lower‐level perception. These mechanisms are particularly relevant for situations in which sensory information is compromised or incomplete, as for example in natural speech where speech segments may be omitted due to sluggish articulation. Here, we investigate which brain areas support the processing of incomplete words that were predictable from semantic context, compared with incomplete words that were unpredictable. During functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), participants heard sentences that orthogonally varied in predictability (semantically predictable vs. unpredictable) and completeness (complete vs. incomplete, i.e. missing their final consonant cluster). The effects of predictability and completeness interacted in heteromodal semantic processing areas, including left angular gyrus and left precuneus, where activity did not differ between complete and incomplete words when they were predictable. The same regions showed stronger activity for incomplete than for complete words when they were unpredictable. The interaction pattern suggests that for highly predictable words, the speech signal does not need to be complete for neural processing in semantic processing areas. Hum Brain Mapp 37:704–716, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Synthesis of New Organoselenium Heterocyclic Compounds: 2‐aryl‐4‐phenyl‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro‐4H‐selenochromenes
Authors: Yurievich Direnko Dmitriy , Borisovich Drevko Yaroslav , Ivanovich Drevko Boris
Published: November 2015

We have explored the reactions of 2‐(3‐oxo‐1‐aryl‐3‐phenylpropyl)cyclohexanone (1–3) with hydrogen selenide in situ in conditions of acid catalysis, and synthesized new 2‐aryl‐4‐phenyl‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro‐4H‐selenochromenes (4–6).
Magnesium Deficiency and Proton‐Pump Inhibitor Use: A Clinical Review
Authors: William Jeffrey H. , Danziger John
Published: November 2015

The association of proton‐pump inhibitor (PPI) use and hypomagnesemia has garnered much attention over the last 5 years. A large body of observational data has linked chronic PPI use with hypomagnesemia, presumably due to decreased intestinal absorption and consequent magnesium deficiency. However, despite the increasing prevalence of this highly popular class of medicine, and despite potential significant risks associated with magnesium depletion, including cardiac arrhythmias and seizures, there are no well‐designed studies to delineate the nature of this observed association. Consequently, providers must use best judgment to inform clinical decision making. This review summarizes the current body of evidence linking PPI use with hypomagnesemia, acknowledges the possibility of significant residual confounding in the observational data, explains potential physiologic mechanisms, and offers clinical recommendations.
Aqueous Polymer Self‐Assembly Based on Cucurbit[n]uril‐Mediated Host‐Guest Interactions
Authors: Liu Ji , Tan Cindy Soo Yun , Lan Yang , Scherman Oren A.
Published: November 2015

In recent years, cucurbit[n]urils (CB[n]) have attracted considerable attentions on account of their unique structure and host–guest binding properties. In this review, recent research progress in the Scherman group, on aqueous polymeric self‐assembly via CB[n]‐mediated host–guest interactions, is summarized. It covers the research achievements of CB[n]‐mediated host–guest complexation on the construction of/application in (1) supramolecular macromolecular engineering and corresponding self‐assemblies, (2) supramolecular polymerization, (3) single polymer chain nanoparticles, (4) supramolecular polymer microcapsules, (5) supramolecular polymer hydrogels, (6) colloidal clusters, and (7) surface engineering.

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“Click” Incorporation of Radical/Ionic Sites into a Reactive Block Copolymer: A Facile and On‐Demand Domain Functionalization Approach toward Organic Resistive Memory
Authors: Suga Takeo , Aoki Kohei , Yashiro Toshiaki , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: November 2015

Reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization yields reactive block copolymers bearing the pentafluorophenyl ester (PFPA) group, and subsequent Click amidation using 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐N‐oxyl‐ and imidazolium‐functionalized primary amines produces the corresponding functional block copolymers, leading to installation of statistical radical‐ and ionic sites into the PFPA segment. The monolayered thin film devices fabricated using the obtained block copolymers exhibit repeatable switching of electric conductivity (on/off ratio > 103) under a bias voltage, which reveals that the coexistence of radicals and ions in the same spherical domain of the copolymer layer is a prerequisite for repeatable switching memory.

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The role of base excision repair in pathogenesis of breast cancer in the Polish population
Authors: Cuchra Magda , Mucha Bartosz , Markiewicz Lukasz , Przybylowska‐Sygut Karolina , Pytel Dariusz , Jeziorski Arkadiusz , Kordek Radzisław , Majsterek Ireneusz
Published: November 2015

Breast cancer (BC) is leading type of cancer among group of women, which determines almost 23% of invasive cancers. It has been reported repeatedly that the level of oxidative stress is higher for BC in comparison to cancer‐free woman. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the role of base excision repair (BER) pathway in the development of BC. One‐hundred seventy‐one women with confirmed BC and 222 healthy controls were enrolled in presented study. The level of oxidative DNA damage and the kinetic of their repair were analyzed by the modified alkaline comet assay. The efficiency of BER pathway was evaluated by BER assay. The presence of the 326Cys/Cys genotype and 326Cys allele of OGG1 gene and the 324His/His of MUTYH gene are associated with increased risk of BC development. Moreover, correlation between clinical parameter with selected genes has shown increased risk of BC progression. The survival analysis has shown a significant lower DFS for individuals with the 762Ala/Ala genotype compared to 762Val/Vla carriers and the 762Val/Ala genotype in relation to concomitant chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In subgroup of patients with alone chemotherapy and alone radiotherapy, the 762Val/Val genotype was significantly associated with lower overall survival. Furthermore, we also elevated the level of basal and oxidative DNA damage in a group of patients with BC in relation to healthy controls. We also observed the difference in effectiveness of DNA damage repair. The results of present studies suggested the important role of BER pathway in BC development. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Weather impacts on electric power load: partial phase synchronization analysis
Authors: Hong Jinkyu , Kim Won Sup
Published: November 2015

Electricity demand is influenced by atmospheric conditions, and, therefore it is important to quantify their relationships suitably for accurate electricity demand forecasting and the implementation of power‐saving policies. However, interdependencies and characteristics of covariance among meteorological variables within the same periodicities hinder the quantification of their direct and indirect impacts on electric power load. To investigate the strength of the direct correlation between atmospheric conditions and electric power load, this study harnessed a new partialization analysis method based on a partial phase synchronization index combined with wavelet transformation. The advantage of the proposed method is that it can be used to evaluate the degree of independent contribution of the variables over different spatiotemporal scales. Compared with traditional statistical analyses, this new partialization analysis shows that air temperature is the principal variable associated directly with electricity demand, but that the strength of the relationship varies with season and time scale. Relative humidity and wind speed have strong direct correlations with electricity in summer and winter, respectively. Insolation is directly coupled to the electric power load only on sub‐diurnal time scales. This investigation indicates that for accurate forecasting of electricity demand, changes in the coupling strengths of different atmospheric variables should be incorporated into the electric power load forecasting process. The study shows that a partial phase synchronization index, combined with wavelet transformation, is a useful tool that could be used in other studies to assess complex interacting atmospheric oscillations that cannot be assessed properly by traditional approaches.
Stachyose increases absorption and hepatoprotective effect of tea polyphenols in high fructose‐fed mice
Authors: Li Wenfeng , Huang Di , Gao Anning , Yang Xingbin
Published: November 2015

Scope

The consumption of tea polyphenols (TP) and stachyose contributes to preventive effects on hepatic injury. This study examined the effects of stachyose on absorption and hepatoprotective effects of TP in mice.

Methods and results

GC‐MS measurement showed that stachyose significantly increased serum total phenolic, ECG and EGCG contents in mice. The mice fed with high fructose (HF)‐diet for 56 days exhibited oxidative stress observed by an increase in hepatic MDA levels and decreases in GSH‐Px and SOD activities. Serum TC, TG, LDL‐C and CRP levels, and ALT and AST activities were increased, while HDL‐C concentrations were decreased following HF diet. Co‐supplementation of stachyose and TP more effectively improved all parameters mentioned above when compared to administration of stachyose or TP alone. Histological observations of hepatic tissues also confirmed the beneficial effects of co‐administration of stachyose and TP.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that stachyose enhances absorption and hepatoprotective effects of TP, and combined ingestion of stachyose and TP is a novel strategy for alleviating HF diet‐induced hepatic injury.
Fabrication of robust multiwalled carbon nanotube buckypapers through crosslinking reaction of epoxy chains with its curing agent
Authors: Moaseri Ehsan , Bazubandi Behnaz , Karimi Majid , Baniadam Majid , Maghrebi Morteza
Published: November 2015

Vacuum filtration method was used to fabricate robust multiwalled carbon nanotube buckypapers (MWCNT‐BPs). MWCNTs were functionalized by epoxy resin (diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A) to enhance their dispersibility. Fabricated BPs were immersed in epoxy hardner to covalently attach functional groups of MWCNTs to each other. Functionalization of MWCNTs was characterized qualitatively by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and quantitatively using thermogravimetric analysis. The morphology study of BPs was studied using scanning electron microscopy. Functionalization of MWCNTs resulted in more uniform and homogeneous BPs. Moreover, considerable improvements were achieved in the mechanical and electrical properties of BPs. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2727–2733, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Association of social support, functional status, and psychological variables with changes in health‐related quality of life outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Gonzalez‐Saenz de Tejada M. , Bilbao A. , Baré M. , Briones E. , Sarasqueta C. , Quintana J.M. , Escobar A.
Published: November 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to explore the association of social support received, and functional and psychological status of colorectal cancer patients before surgery with changes in health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes measured by EORTC QLQ‐C30 at 1‐year post‐intervention.

Methods

Consecutive patients that were because of undergo therapeutic surgery for the first time for colon or rectum cancer in nine hospitals in Spain were eligible for the study. Patients completed questionnaires before surgery and 12 months afterwards: one HRQoL instrument, the EORTC QLQ‐C30; a social network and social support questionnaire, the Duke‐UNC Functional Social Support Questionnaire; the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, to assess anxiety and depression; and the Barthel Index, to assess functional status; as well as questions about sociodemographic information. General linear models were built to explore the association of social support, functional status, and psychological variables with changes in HRQoL 12 months after intervention.

Results

A total of 972 patients with colorectal cancer took part in the study. Patients' functional status, social support, and anxiety and depression were associated with changes in at least one HRQoL domain. The higher functional status, and the higher social support, the more they improved in HRQoL domains. Regarding anxiety and depression, the more anxiety and depression patients have at baseline, less they improve in HRQoL domains.

Conclusions

Patients with colorectal cancer who have more social support and no psychological distress may have better results in HRQoL domains at 1 year after surgery. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Initial experience with a new biodegradable airway stent in children: Is this the stent we were waiting for?
Authors: Antón‐Pacheco Juan L. , Luna Carmen , García Enrique , López María , Morante Rocío , Tordable Cristina , Palacios Alba , de Miguel Mónica , Benavent Isabel , Gómez Andrés
Published: November 2015

Objective

To report our experience with a new type of biodegradable airway stent in the setting of severe tracheobronchial obstruction in children.

Design and Methodology

We conducted a retrospective and prospective (since June 2014) study of pediatric patients with severe airway obstruction treated with biodegradable stents in our institution between 2012 and 2015. The following data were collected: demographics, indication for stenting, bronchoscopic findings, insertion technique complications, clinical outcome, stent related complications, re‐stenting, and time of follow‐up.

Results

Thirteen custom‐made polydioxanone stents were placed in four infants (mean age, 4 months) with severe tracheobronchial obstruction: tracheomalacia (two patients), bronchomalacia (1), and diffuse tracheal stenosis (1). All the stents were bronchoscopically inserted uneventfully. Immediate and maintained clinical improvement was observed in every case. No major stent related complications have occurred and only mild or moderate granulation tissue was observed during surveillance bronchoscopy. Two patients required repeated stenting as expected. All the patients are alive and in a good respiratory condition with a follow‐up ranging from 5 to 40 months.

Conclusions

Biodegradable airway stents seem to be safe, effective, and cause fewer complications than other types of stents. They can be an alternative to the classic metallic or plastic stents for severe tracheal stenosis or malacia in small children. More experience is needed in order to establish the definite clinical criteria for their use in pediatric patients. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:607–612. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adherence pattern to study drugs in clinical trials by patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Pugatsch Thea , Shoseyov David , Cohen‐Cymberknoh Malena , Hayut Batya , Armoni Shoshana , Griese Matthias , Kerem Eitan
Published: November 2015

Background

Clinical trials are all based on the assumption that patients are adherent to the study protocol. Many reports indicate that general adherence of patients with CF to their daily routine therapies is poor. However, no data exists on adherence to study drug regimens.

Methods

All clinical trials carried out at the Hadassah CF Center from 2008 to 2013 were reviewed. Actual adherence as determined by counted drugs was analyzed according to drug administration mode, study lengths and number of study visits. A subset of patients answered a two‐part questionnaire covering study specific and general treatment specific issues.

Results

Eight studies including 118 patients, with patient numbers varying between 4 and 32 per trial were analyzed. For 7/8 studies mean adherence was between 78% to 100%. Comparison with administration mode showed that adherence decreased substantially if the drugs were not provided as “ready to be used” (63%). Study length influenced adherence, the longer the study the poorer the adherence (82% trial beginning, 44% post 36 months [two combined studies with identical drug]). A substantial decrease was noted over Holiday periods and during the summer vacation months. No correlation was found between number of study visits and adherence to study drug.

Conclusion

Adherence to study drug is generally higher than that for regular treatment. Study length, mode of administration, and timing according to Holidays and vacations adversely affect adherence. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:143–146. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High susceptibility and low resistance allele frequency of Chrysodeixis includens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) field populations to Cry1Ac in Brazil
Authors: Yano Silvia AC , Specht Alexandre , Moscardi Flávio , Carvalho Renato A , Dourado Patrick M , Martinelli Samuel , Head Graham P , Sosa‐Gómez Daniel R
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND

The soybean looper (SBL), Chrysodeixis includens (Walker), is one of the most important soybean pests in Brazil. MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean expressing Cry1Ac has been recently deployed in Brazil, providing high levels of control against the primary lepidopteran pests. To support insect resistance management (IRM) programmes, the baseline susceptibility of SBL to Cry1Ac was assessed, and the resistance allele frequency was estimated on the basis of an F2 screen.

RESULTS

The toxicity (LC50) of Cry1Ac ranged from 0.39 to 2.01 µg mL−1 diet among all SBL field populations collected from crop seasons 2008/09 to 2012/13, which indicated approximately fivefold variation. Cry1Ac diagnostic concentrations of 5.6 and 18 µg mL−1 diet were established for monitoring purposes, and no shift in mortality was observed. A total of 626 F2 family lines derived from SBL collected from locations across Brazil during crop season 2014/15 were screened for the presence of Cry1Ac resistance alleles. None of the 626 families survived on MON 87701 × MON 89788 soybean leaf tissue (joint frequency 0.0004).

CONCLUSIONS

SBL showed high susceptibility and low resistance allele frequency to Cry1Ac across the main soybean‐producing regions in Brazil. These findings meet important criteria for effective IRM strategy. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of Surfactant Bilayers on the Refractive Index Sensitivity and Catalytic Properties of Anisotropic Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Martinsson Erik , Shahjamali Mohammad M. , Large Nicolas , Zaraee Negin , Zhou Yu , Schatz George C. , Mirkin Chad A. , Aili Daniel
Published: November 2015

Shape‐controlled synthesis of gold nanoparticles generally involves the use of surfactants, typically cetyltrimethylammonium (CTAX, X = Cl−, Br−), to regulate the nucleation growth process and to obtain colloidally stable nanoparticles. The surfactants adsorb on the nanoparticle surface making further functionalization difficult and therefore limit their use in many applications. Herein, the influence of CTAX on nanoparticle sensitivity to local dielectric environment changes is reported. It is shown, both experimentally and theoretically, that the CTAX bilayer significantly reduces the refractive index (RI) sensitivity of anisotropic gold nanoparticles such as nanocubes and concave nanocubes, nanorods, and nanoprisms. The RI sensitivity can be increased by up to 40% by removing the surfactant layer from nanoparticles immobilized on a solid substrate using oxygen plasma treatment. This increase compensates for the otherwise problematic decrease in RI sensitivity caused by the substrate effect. Moreover, the removal of the surfactants both facilitates nanoparticle biofunctionalization and significantly improves their catalytic properties. The strategy presented herein is a simple yet effective universal method for enhancing the RI sensitivity of CTAX‐stabilized gold nanoparticles and increasing their potential as transducers in nanoplasmonic sensors, as well as in catalytic and biomedical applications.
Maternal serum placental growth factor at 12, 22, 32 and 36 weeks' gestation in screening for pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Tsiakkas A. , Cazacu R. , Wright A. , Wright D. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: November 2015

Objective

To examine the distribution of maternal serum placental growth factor (PlGF) at 12, 22, 32 and 36 weeks' gestation in singleton pregnancies which develop pre‐eclampsia (PE) and examine the performance of this biomarker in screening for PE.

Methods

Serum PlGF was measured in 40 212 cases at 11–13 weeks, in 10 282 cases at 19–24 weeks, in 10 400 at 30–34 weeks and 4043 at 35–37 weeks. Bayes' theorem was used to combine the a‐priori risk from maternal characteristics and medical history with serum PlGF. The performance of screening for PE requiring delivery < 32, at 32 + 0 to 36 + 6 and ≥ 37 weeks' gestation was estimated.

Results

In pregnancies that developed PE, serum PlGF was decreased and the separation in multiples of the median (MoM) values from normal was greater with earlier, compared to later, gestational age at which delivery for PE became necessary. Additionally, the slope of the regression lines of PlGF MoM with gestational age at delivery in pregnancies that developed PE increased with advancing gestational age at screening. The detection rates (DRs), at a false‐positive rate (FPR) of 10%, for PE delivering < 32 weeks were 79% and 97% with screening at 12 and 22 weeks, respectively. The DRs for PE delivering at 32 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks were 57%, 65% and 90% with screening at 12, 22 and 32 weeks. The DRs for PE delivering ≥ 37 weeks were 40%, 37%, 54% and 64% with screening at 12, 22, 32 and 36 weeks, respectively.

Conclusions

The performance of combined screening with maternal factors, medical history and PlGF is superior in screening for early, compared to late, PE and improves with advancing gestational age at screening. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Maternal serum soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 at 12, 22, 32 and 36 weeks' gestation in screening for pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Tsiakkas A. , Mendez O. , Wright A. , Wright D. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: November 2015

Objective

To examine the distribution of maternal serum soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFlt‐1) at 12, 22, 32 and 36 weeks' gestation in singleton pregnancies that develop pre‐eclampsia (PE) and examine the performance of this biomarker in screening for PE.

Methods

Serum sFlt‐1 was measured in 7066 cases at 11–13 weeks, 8079 cases at 19–24 weeks, 8472 at 30–34 weeks and 4043 at 35–37 weeks. Bayes' theorem was used to combine the a‐priori risk from maternal characteristics and medical history with serum levels of sFlt‐1. The performance of screening for PE in women requiring delivery < 32, between 32 + 0 and 36 + 6 and ≥ 37 weeks' gestation was estimated.

Results

In pregnancies that developed PE, serum sFlt‐1 was increased and the separation in multiples of the median (MoM) values from normal was greater with earlier, compared to later, gestational age at which delivery for PE became necessary. In pregnancies that developed PE, the slope of the regression lines of sFlt‐1 MoM with gestational age at delivery increased with advancing gestational age at screening. Measurement of sFlt‐1 at 11–13 weeks did not improve the prediction of PE achieved by maternal factors alone, sFlt‐1 at 19–24 weeks improved the prediction of PE delivering < 37 weeks but not for PE delivering ≥ 37 weeks, sFlt‐1 at 30–34 weeks improved the prediction of PE delivering < 37 and PE delivering ≥ 37 weeks and sFlt‐1 at 35–37 weeks improved the prediction of PE delivering ≥ 37 weeks. The detection rates (DRs), at a false‐positive rate (FPR) of 10%, of PE delivering < 32 weeks were 52% and 65% with screening at 12 and 22 weeks, respectively. The DRs for PE delivering between 32 + 0 and 36 + 6 weeks were 44%, 44% and 93% with screening at 12, 22 and 32 weeks. The DR for PE delivering ≥ 37 weeks were 37%, 37%, 52% and 69% with screening at 12, 22, 32 and 36 weeks, respectively.

Conclusions

The performance of combined screening with maternal factors, medical history and serum sFlt‐1 is superior for detection of early, compared to late, PE and improves with advancing gestational age at screening. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.