bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strength variation of gas cooling turbine blade pin‐fin with different array
Authors: Zhao Z. , Hu W. , Li L. , Yue Z. , Gao W.
Published: January 2015

As an important measure of cooling, the pin fin array has been widely used in the cooling blade of turbine. However, most of the cracks in turbine blade are found near the pin fin due to stress concentration. In order to study the strength variations of pin fin in various shapes and with various longitudinal and transverse pitches, this paper establishes 10 rectangular, 3 elliptical and 1 diamond‐shaped slab models of pin fin array. The results indicate the existence of high stress area and low stress area around the pin fin. In the rectangular pin fin model, the maximum equivalent stress is detected on the side perpendicular to the load applied, the low stress area is on the side parallel to the load applied, and the high and low stress areas are semi‐elliptically distributed along their own track. For a rectangular pin fin array, the equivalent stress along each side of the bottom first increases and then decreases, with the maximum equivalent stress at the corners and the minimum at mid‐point of each side; along the height direction, the minimum equivalent stress of a rectangular pin fin array is near the ends while that of a square pin fin array is at the mid‐points. Under the same conditions, the stress of the rectangular pin fin array decreases with the decrease of the aspect ratio (h1/b). The position of the maximum stress around the elliptical pin fin array varies from the two axis ratio (a/b). When a/b is 2, the maximum equivalent stress around the bottom is at the positions with a horizontal angle of 75°/120°/255°/300°; when a/b is 1, the maximum equivalent stress is at the positions with a horizontal angle of 60°/135°/240°/315°; and when a/b is 0.5, the maximum equivalent stress is at the positions with a horizontal angle of 45°/150°/220°/330°. Under the same conditions, the stress of a round pin fin array is smaller than that of a square one. In all the analytical models, the diamond‐shaped pin fin array presents the largest equivalent stress and the highest stress concentration.
Effect of the surface treatment in polyurethane and natural leather for the footwear industry
Authors: Paiva R. M. M. , Marques E. A. S. , da Silva L. F. M. , António C. A. C.
Published: January 2015

This aim of this paper is to analyse the peel strength of an adhesive joint with various types of surface treatments in order to contribute to the research and development of adhesives for the footwear industry. In the shoe industry, the adhesive properties are very important to ensure the quality of manufacture of the shoe. To better understand the behaviour of the adhesive joint, it is important to measure the peel resistance of the adhesive and use it to adjust the manufacturing process. For this work, joints were manufactured using natural leather, polyurethane (PU) and a solvent based polyurethane non structural adhesive. The influences of the application of physical surface treatments and/or primer on substrates in the peel strength of a T joint were analyzed. Several tests were used to characterize the surfaces of the substrates, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and contact angle measurements. It was found that certain surface treatments are required to obtain an adhesive joint capable of satisfying the minimum requirements of the shoes manufacturing sector.
Diffusion bonding of TiAl based alloy to Ti–6Al–4V alloy using amorphous interlayer
Authors: Xue Z. , Yang Q. , Gu L. , Hao X. , Ren Y. , Geng Y.
Published: January 2015

Powder metallurgical TiAl based alloy and Ti–6Al–4V (TC4) alloy were diffusion bonded at 915 °C for 1 h under a pressure of 80 MPa. Single Ti‐based amorphous or Ni‐based amorphous foil was utilized as an interlayer during diffusion bonding process. The tensile mechanical properties of the diffusion bonded joints between TiAl based alloy and TC4 alloy were tested. The fracture surface and microstructure characteristic of these joints were also observed carefully by scanning electron microscope. The TiAl based alloy with a fully lamellar microstructure is more suitable for diffusion bonding to TC4 alloy. Adding a Ti‐based amorphous interlayer is more conducive to the element diffusion, giving rise to the improvement in the mechanical properties of the diffusion bonded joints. Results also show that the diffusion bonded joints form a metallurgical bond and fracture in a brittle manner.
PAC exhibits potent anti‐colon cancer properties through targeting cyclin D1 and suppressing epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition
Authors: Al‐Qasem Abeer , Al‐Howail Huda A. , Al‐Swailem Mashael , Al‐Mazrou Amer , Al‐Otaibi Basem , Al‐Jammaz Ibrahim , Al‐Khalaf Huda H. , Aboussekhra Abdelilah
Published: January 2015

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although response rates and overall survival have been improved in recent years, resistance to multiple drug combinations is inevitable. Therefore, the development of more efficient drugs, with fewer side effects is urgently needed. To this end, we have investigated in the present report the effect of PAC, a novel cucumin analogue, on CRC cells both in vitro and in vivo. We have shown that PAC induces apoptosis, mainly via the internal mitochondrial route, and inhibits cell proliferation through delaying the cell cycle at G2/M phase. Interestingly, the pro‐apoptotic effect was mediated through STAT3‐dependent down‐regulation of cyclin D1 and its downstream target survivin. Indeed, change in the expression level of cyclin D1 modulated the expression of survivin and the response of CRC cells to PAC. Furthermore, using the ChIP assay, we have shown PAC‐dependent reduction in the binding of STAT3 to the cyclin D1 promoter in vivo. Additionally, PAC suppressed the epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal process through down‐regulating the mesenchymal markers (N‐cadherin, vimentin and Twist1) and inhibiting the invasion/migration abilities of the CRC cells via repressing the pro‐migration/invasion protein kinases AKT and ERK1/2. In addition, PAC inhibited tumor growth and repressed the JAK2/STAT3, AKT/mTOR and MEK/ERK pathways as well as their common downstream effectors cyclin D1 and survivin in humanized CRC xenografts. Collectively, these results indicate that PAC has potent anti‐CRC effects, and therefore could constitute an effective alternative chemotherapeutic agent, which may consolidate the adjuvant treatment of colon cancer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Krüppel‐like factor 9 was down‐regulated in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and negatively regulated beta‐catenin/TCF signaling
Authors: Qiao Fan , Yao Feng , Chen Ling , Lu Chengjun , Ni Yiqian , Fang Wentao , Jin Hai
Published: January 2015

Krüppel‐like factor 9 (KLF9) has been found to play suppressive roles in several types of tumor. However, the expression pattern and biological functions of KLF9 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) are still unknown. In this study, it was found that the expression of KLF9 was significantly down‐regulated in ESCC compared to their adjacent normal esophageal tissues. Meanwhile, the expression of KLF9 was inversely correlated with the clinical features of ESCC patients. Moreover, in the biological function study, KLF9 was further validated to inhibit the growth, migration, and metastasis of ESCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, KLF9 bind with TCF4 and suppressed the beta‐catenin/TCF signaling as well as the expression of its target gene Cyr61. Collectively, our study clarified the function of KLF9 in both ESCC progression and the regulation of beta‐catenin/TCF signaling. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and bacterial pneumonia in patients with Parkinson disease
Authors: Wang Han‐Cheng , Lin Che‐Chen , Lau Chi‐Ieong , Chang Anna , Kao Chia‐Hung
Published: January 2015

Background

To evaluate the association of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers with pneumonia development in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

The study cohort consisted of patients aged 50 years or older who were initially diagnosed with PD and had hypertension. We assessed the patients' exposure statuses and accumulated doses of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers. We then evaluated the risk of pneumonia development in the patients who were exposed to these drugs and those who were not.

Results

We examined 2,310 patients. During the observation period, 608 patients developed pneumonia. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors were associated with a lower risk of pneumonia. This association was dose‐dependent.

Conclusion

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor use was associated with a dose‐dependent reduction in the risk of pneumonia in patients with PD and hypertension. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Systems Approaches and Big Data in Molecular Informatics
Authors: Baumann Knut , Becker Gerhard F. , Mestres Jordi , Schneider Gisbert
Published: January 2015

System Approaches and Big Data in Molecular Informatics
Investigation of enzymatic C–P bond formation using multiple quantum HCP nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Hu Kaifeng , Werner Williard J. , Allen Kylie D. , Wang Susan C.
Published: January 2015

The biochemical mechanism for the formation of the C–P–C bond sequence found in l‐phosphinothricin, a natural product with antibiotic and herbicidal activity, remains unclear. To obtain further insight into the catalytic mechanism of PhpK, the P‐methyltransferase responsible for the formation of the second C–P bond in l‐phosphinothricin, we utilized a combination of stable isotopes and two‐dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Exploiting the newly emerged Bruker QCI probe (Bruker Corp.), we specifically designed and ran a 13C‐31P multiple quantum 1H‐13C‐31P (HCP) experiment in 1H‐31P two‐dimensional mode directly on a PhpK‐catalyzed reaction mixture using 13CH3‐labeled methylcobalamin as the methyl group donor. This method is particularly advantageous because minimal sample purification is needed to maximize product visualization. The observed 3:1:1:3 multiplet specifically and unequivocally illustrates direct bond formation between 13CH3 and 31P. Related nuclear magnetic resonance experiments based upon these principles may be designed for the study of enzymatic and/or synthetic chemical reaction mechanisms. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of high fructose and salt feeding on systematic metabonome probed via 1H NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Yongxia , Zheng Lingyun , Wang Linlin , Wang Shumei , Wang Yaling , Han Zhihui
Published: January 2015

Diets rich in high fructose and salt are increasingly popular in our daily life. A combination consumption of excessive fructose and salt can induce insulin resistance (IR) and hypertension (HT), which are major public health problems around the world. However, the effects of high fructose and salt on systematic metabonome remain unknown, which is very important for revealing the molecular mechanism of IR and HT induced by this dietary pattern. The metabolic profiling in urine, plasma, and fecal extracts from high fructose and salt‐fed rats was investigated by use of 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)‐based metabonomics approach in this study. Multivariate analysis of NMR data showed the effects of high fructose and salt on the global metabonome. The metabolite analysis in urine and fecal extracts showed the time‐dependent metabolic changes, which displayed metabonomic progression axes from normal to IR and HT status. The changes of 2‐oxoglutarate, creatine and creatinine, citrate, hippurate, trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO), and betaine in urine, together with gut microbiota disorder in feces, were observed at the preliminary formation stage of IR and HT (fourth week). At the severe stage (eighth week), the previously mentioned metabolic changes were aggravated, and the changes of lipid and choline metabolism in plasma suggested the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. These findings provide an overview of biochemistry consequences of high fructose and salt feeding and comprehensive insights into the progression of systematic metabonome for IR and HT induced by this dietary pattern. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and properties of UV curable polyvinylsilazane as a precursor for micro‐structuring
Authors: Li Yi‐He , Ahn Kwang‐Duk , Kim Dong‐Pyo
Published: January 2015

Photosensitive acrylated polyvinylsilazanes were prepared by reacting a diacrylate containing compound, 1,1‐bis (acryloyloxyethyl) ethyl isocyanate (BAEI), with polyvinylsilazane (PVSZ) and utilized as an inorganic photoresist for generating SiCN‐based ceramic microstructures. The acrylate‐modified polymers (m‐PVSZ) were characterized by 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR and FT‐IR methods to determine the chemical reaction mechanism. Differential photo‐calorimeter and FT‐IR analysis were employed to examine its photosensitive properties. Line patterns were fabricated by a UV nano‐imprinting method; multi‐layered octagon structures were fabricated by a two‐photon absorption stereolithography process. The results indicate that m‐PVSZ is quite a novel inorganic photoresist for the fabrication of micro ceramic structures. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Astrocytes facilitate melanoma brain metastasis via secretion of IL‐23
Authors: Klein Anat , Schwartz Hila , Sagi‐Assif Orit , Meshel Tsipi , Izraely Sivan , Ben Menachem Shlomit , Bengaiev Roman , Ben‐Shmuel Amir , Nahmias Clara , Couraud Pierre‐Olivier , Witz Isaac P , Erez Neta
Published: January 2015

Melanoma is the leading cause of skin cancer mortality. The major cause of melanoma mortality is metastasis to distant organs, frequently to the brain. The microenvironment plays a critical role in tumourigenesis and metastasis. In order to treat or prevent metastasis, the interactions of disseminated tumour cells with the microenvironment at the metastatic organ have to be elucidated. However, the role of brain stromal cells in facilitating metastatic growth is poorly understood. Astrocytes are glial cells that function in repair and scarring of the brain following injury, in part via mediating neuroinflammation, but the role of astrocytes in melanoma brain metastasis is largely unresolved. Here we show that astrocytes can be reprogrammed by human brain‐metastasizing melanoma cells to express pro‐inflammatory factors, including the cytokine IL‐23, which was highly expressed by metastases‐associated astrocytes in vivo. Moreover, we show that the interactions between astrocytes and melanoma cells are reciprocal: paracrine signalling from astrocytes up‐regulates the secretion of the matrix metalloproteinase MMP2 and enhances the invasiveness of brain‐metastasizing melanoma cells. IL‐23 was sufficient to increase melanoma cell invasion, and neutralizing antibodies to IL‐23 could block this enhanced migration, implying a functional role for astrocyte‐derived IL‐23 in facilitating the progression of melanoma brain metastasis. Knocking down the expression of MMP2 in melanoma cells resulted in inhibition of IL‐23‐induced invasiveness. Thus, our study demonstrates that bidirectional signalling between melanoma cells and astrocytes results in the formation of a pro‐inflammatory milieu in the brain, and in functional enhancement of the metastatic potential of disseminated melanoma cells. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of imaging technology in the assessment of the fetal inflammatory response syndrome—imaging of the fetal thymus
Authors: Sciaky‐Tamir Yael , Hershkovitz Reli , Mazor Moshe , Shelef Ilan , Erez Offer
Published: January 2015

The fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS) describes a state of extensive fetal multi organ involvement during chorioamnionitis, and is associated with grave implications on perinatal outcome. The syndrome has been linked to the preterm parturition syndrome and is associated with inflammation/infection processes in most of the fetal organs. The fetal thymus, a major organ in the developing immune system involutes during severe neonatal disease and has been shown to be smaller in fetuses with FIRS. Various methods for imaging of the fetal thymus and measurement are described. Currently the only method to diagnose FIRS prenatally is through amniocentesis. We suggest that women who are admitted with preterm labor with intact membranes and those with PPROM should have a detailed sonographic examination of the fetal thymus as a surrogate marker of fetal involvement in intrauterine infection/inflammation processes. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ion mobility–mass spectrometry reveals conformational flexibility in the deubiquitinating enzyme USP5
Authors: Scott Daniel , Layfield Robert , Oldham Neil J.
Published: January 2015

Many proteins exhibit conformation flexibility as part of their biological function, whether through the presence of a series of well‐defined states or by the existence of intrinsic disorder. Ion mobility spectrometry, in combination with MS (IM–MS), offers a rapid and sensitive means of probing ensembles of protein structures through measurement of gas‐phase collisional cross sections. We have applied IM–MS analysis to the multidomain deubiquitinating enzyme ubiquitin specific protease 5 (USP5), which is believed to exhibit significant conformational flexibility. Native ESI–MS measurement of the 94‐kDa USP5 revealed two distinct charge‐state distributions: [M + 17H]+ to [M + 21H]+ and [M + 24H]+ to [M + 29H]+. The collisional cross sections of these ions revealed clear groupings of 52 ± 4 nm2 for the lower charges and 66 ± 6 nm2 for the higher charges. Molecular dynamics simulation of a compact form of USP5, based on a crystal structure, produced structures of 53–54 nm2 following 2 ns in the gas phase, while simulation of an extended form (based on small‐angle X‐ray scattering data) led to structures of 64 nm2. These data demonstrate that IM–MS is a valuable tool in studying proteins with different discrete conformational states.
Oncology staff: burnout, job satisfaction and coping with stress
Authors: Guveli Hulya , Anuk Dilek , Oflaz Serap , Guveli Murat Emin , Yildirim Nazmiye Kocaman , Ozkan Mine , Ozkan Sedat
Published: January 2015

Objective

The oncology staff is at high risk for developing psychological disorders and burnout. In this study, we aimed to evaluate their burnout levels, job satisfaction, psychological statement and ways of coping with stress and the relationship between these variables and their sociodemographic and occupational characteristics.

Methods

Among all health workers at the Istanbul University Institute, of Oncology, 159 were included in the study. A sociodemographic data form, the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the Styles of Coping Inventory‐Short Form were used to evaluate burnout and its contributing factors.

Results

High levels of ‘emotional exhaustion’, ‘depersonalization’ and ‘low sense of personal accomplishment’ were determined in 30.2%, 8.2% and 44% of all participants, respectively. The variables that affected emotional exhaustion were assessed by logistic regression analysis. Accordingly, the ratio of emotional exhaustion was approximately 10 times higher in those for whom job stress was the most important stress factor compared with those who indicated nonjob stress for each one point increase on the GHQ and depersonalization scores, which were other predictors, with odds ratio (OR) : 1.23, p = 0.006 and OR : 1.67, p < 0.001, respectively. A negative correlation was detected between adaptive coping styles and ‘burnout,’ and a positive correlation was found between maladaptive coping strategies and exhaustion.

Conclusions

It is necessary to monitor the psychological status of employees in oncology units with scanning tools such as GHQ to understand their job stress perceptions and to help them develop adaptive coping methods. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Loss of MyD88 leads to more aggressive TRAMP prostate cancer and influences tumor infiltrating lymphocytes
Authors: Peek Elizabeth M. , Song Wang , Zhang Hanwei , Huang Jiaoti , Chin Arnold I.
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

The influence of pattern recognition receptor (PRR) signaling in the prostate tumor microenvironment remains unclear. Although there may be a role for PRR agonists as adjuvants to therapy, prior evidence suggests tumor promoting as well as tumor inhibiting mechanisms. The purpose of this study is to examine the role of the key Toll‐like receptor (TLR) signaling adaptor protein myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88) in prostate cancer development.

METHODS

MyD88‐/‐ mice in a C57Bl6 background were crossed with transgenic adenocarcinomas of the mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice to create MyD88‐/‐ TRAMPTg+/− animals, which were compared to MyD88+/+ TRAMPTg+/− animals and their non‐transgenic counterparts at 30 weeks. Prostates were examined histologically, by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining, and by qPCR, to characterize tumor‐infiltrating immune populations as well as activation of the downstream NF‐κB pathway and androgen receptor (AR) expression. Splenocytes were examined for development of distinct immune cell populations.

RESULTS

Absence of MyD88 led to increased prostatic intraepithelial neoplasm (PIN) and areas of well‐differentiated adenocarcinoma in TRAMP transgenic mice. Analysis of infiltrating immune populations revealed an increase in CD11b+ Gr1+ myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), as evidenced by increased expression of prostatic arginase‐1 and iNOS as well as the cytokine IL‐10, and a deficiency in NK cells in prostates from MyD88‐/‐ TRAMPTg+/− compared to MyD88+/+ TRAMPTg+/− mice, whereas a decrease in splenocytic NK cell differentiation was observed in MyD88‐/‐ mice. Prostate tumors revealed no significant differences in NF‐κB or AR expression in MyD88+/+ TRAMPTg+/− compared to MyD88‐/‐ TRAMPTg+/− mice.

CONCLUSIONS

During prostate cancer development in the TRAMP model, MyD88 may play a role in limiting prostate tumorigenesis by altering tumor‐infiltrating immune populations. This suggests that in the context of specific cancers, distinct PRRs and signaling pathways of innate immune signaling may influence the tumor microenvironment and represent a novel therapeutic strategy. Prostate 75: 463–473, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prostate atypia: Does repeat biopsy detect clinically significant prostate cancer?
Authors: Dorin Ryan P. , Wiener Scott , Harris Cory D. , Wagner Joseph R.
Published: January 2015

Background

While the treatment pathway in response to benign or malignant prostate biopsies is well established, there is uncertainty regarding the risk of subsequently diagnosing prostate cancer when an initial diagnosis of prostate atypia is made. As such, we investigated the likelihood of a repeat biopsy diagnosing prostate cancer (PCa) in patients in which an initial biopsy diagnosed prostate atypia.

METHODS

We reviewed our prospectively maintained prostate biopsy database to identify patients who underwent a repeat prostate biopsy within one year of atypia (atypical small acinar proliferation; ASAP) diagnosis between November 1987 and March 2011. Patients with a history of PCa were excluded. Chart review identified patients who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP), radiotherapy (RT), or active surveillance (AS). For some analyses, patients were divided into two subgroups based on their date of service.

RESULTS

Ten thousand seven hundred and twenty patients underwent 13,595 biopsies during November 1987‐March 2011. Five hundred and sixty seven patients (5.3%) had ASAP on initial biopsy, and 287 (50.1%) of these patients underwent a repeat biopsy within one year. Of these, 122 (42.5%) were negative, 44 (15.3%) had atypia, 19 (6.6%) had prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, and 102 (35.6%) contained PCa. Using modified Epstein's criteria, 27/53 (51%) patients with PCa on repeat biopsy were determined to have clinically significant tumors. 37 (36.3%) proceeded to RP, 25 (24.5%) underwent RT, and 40 (39.2%) received no immediate treatment. In patients who underwent surgery, Gleason grade on final pathology was upgraded in 11 (35.5%), and downgraded 1 (3.2%) patient.

CONCLUSIONS

ASAP on initial biopsy was associated with a significant risk of PCa on repeat biopsy in patients who subsequently underwent definitive local therapy. Patients with ASAP should be counseled on the probability of harboring both clinically significant and insignificant prostate cancer. Prostate 75:673–678, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantification of Anthocyanins in Elderberry and Chokeberry Dietary Supplements
Authors: Vlachojannis Christian , Zimmermann Benno F. , Chrubasik‐Hausmann Sigrun
Published: January 2015

Elderberry and chokeberry food supplements may be ‘functional food’ in patients with metabolic syndrome or influenza but, for this, adequate amounts of co‐active ingredients must be consumed in the daily dose. This study aimed to quantify the anthocyanin content in three elderberry and six chokeberry products to assess their usefulness as functional food. Analyses were carried out using an established HPLC procedure. The minimum anthocyanin doses for the treatment of metabolic syndrome disorders were estimated as 110 mg per day and 3.5 g per day for influenza. Three products were inappropriate for clinical use. The lowest liquid supplies were achieved with a proprietary elderberry concentrate (11 mL) and a proprietary chokeberry mother juice (100 mL). Clinical studies are now required to prove the effectiveness and adapt the doses according to the clinical symptoms. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of the Flavanone combination Hesperetin‐Naringenin, and Orange and Grapefruit Juices, on Airway inflammation and Remodeling in a murine asthma model
Authors: Seyedrezazadeh Ensiyeh , Kolahian Saeed , Shahbazfar Amir‐Ali , Ansarin Khalil , Pour Moghaddam Masoud , Sakhinia Masoud , Sakhinia Ebrahim , Vafa Mohammadreza
Published: January 2015

We investigated whether flavanones, hesperetin–naringenin, orange, and grapefruit juices reduce airway inflammation and remodeling in murine chronic asthma model. To establish chronic asthma, mice received house dust mite (HDM) for 3 days in 2 weeks, followed by twice per week for 4 weeks. Concurrently, during the last 4 weeks, mice received hesperetin plus naringenin (HN), orange plus grapefruit juice (OGJ), orange juice (OJ), or grapefruit juice (GJ); whereas the asthmatic control (AC) group and non‐asthmatic control (NC) group consumed water ad libitum. In histopathological examination, no goblet cells metaplasia was observed in the HN, OJ, and GJ groups; also, intra‐alveolar macrophages decreased compared with those of the AC group. Hesperetin plus naringenin significantly decreased subepithelial fibrosis, smooth muscle hypertrophy in airways, and lung atelectasis compared with the AC group. Also, there was a reduction of subepithelial fibrosis in airways in OJ and GJ groups compared with AC group, but it was not noticed in OGJ group. In bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, macrophages numbers decreased in OJ and OGJ groups, whereas eosinophil numbers were increased in OJ group compared with NC group. Our finding revealed that hesperetin plus naringenin ameliorate airway structural remodeling more than orange juice and grapefruit juice in murine model of HDM‐induced asthma. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seasonal forecasting of tropical storms using the Met Office GloSea5 seasonal forecast system
Authors: Camp J. , Roberts M. , MacLachlan C. , Wallace E. , Hermanson L. , Brookshaw A. , Arribas A. , Scaife A. A.
Published: January 2015

The variability and predictability of tropical storm activity in the Met Office fully coupled atmosphere–ocean Global Seasonal Forecast System 5 (GloSea5) is assessed. GloSea5 is a high‐resolution seasonal forecast system with an atmospheric horizontal grid of 0.83° longitude × 0.55° latitude (∼53 km at 55°N) and 0.25° in the global ocean. The performance of the system is assessed in terms of its ability to retrospectively predict the observed tropical storm climatology and its response to the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Results are compared to the predecessor system GloSea4 (∼120 km atmospheric horizontal resolution) and observational analyses over the common period of the operational hindcast for both systems: 1996–2009. A supplementary assessment of GloSea5 for the period 1992–2013 is then performed to evaluate skill of tropical storm predictions in the Northern Hemisphere as well as landfall frequency along two regions, the US coast and the Caribbean, over a longer period. GloSea5 is able to reproduce key tropical storm characteristics, such as their geographical distribution, seasonal cycle and interannual variability, as well as spatial changes in storm track density with ENSO. GloSea5 shows statistically significant skill for predictions of tropical storm numbers and accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) index in the North Atlantic, western Pacific, Australian region and South Pacific. Statistically significant skill is also found for predictions of landfall frequency along the Caribbean coastline. Skill is similar using either the direct counting of landfalling storms in the model, or by inferring landfall rates from the Atlantic basin‐wide storm count. We find no skill for predictions of landfall along the US coast. Results suggest the potential for operational seasonal tropical storm forecasts throughout the Tropics.
How to improve acquisition performance: The role of a dedicated M&A function, M&A learning process, and M&A capability
Authors: Trichterborn Anja , Zu Knyphausen‐Aufseß Dodo , Schweizer Lars
Published: January 2015

How to improve the performance of mergers & acquisitions (M&A) continues to be a confounding issue. We show that a dedicated M&A function is a new phenomenon that is positively related to a firm's M&A performance and M&A learning process. Moreover, we find that an M&A learning process (involving articulation, codification, sharing, and internalization) helps build up an M&A capability, which in turn is positively related to a firm's overall M&A performance. We use survey data from a sample drawn from the M&A activities of German firms to test our arguments. Ltd. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrasmall Cu2‐xS Nanodots for Highly Efficient Photoacoustic Imaging‐Guided Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Mou Juan , Li Pei , Liu Chengbo , Xu Huixiong , Song Liang , Wang Jin , Zhang Kun , Chen Yu , Shi Jianlin , Chen Hangrong
Published: January 2015

Monodisperse, ultrasmall (<5 nm) Cu2−xS nanodots (u‐Cu2−xS NDs) with significantly strong near‐infrared absorption and conversion are successfully demonstrated for effective deep‐tissue photoacoustic imaging‐guided photothermal therapy both in vitro and in vivo. Owing to ultrasmall nanoparticle size and high water dispersibility as well as long stability, such nanodots possess a prolonged circulation in blood and good passive accumulation within tumors through the enhanced permeability and retention effect. These u‐Cu2−xS NDs have negligible side effects to both blood and normal tissues according to in vivo toxicity evaluations for up to 3 months, showing excellent hemo/histocompatibility. Furthermore, these u‐Cu2−xS NDs can be thoroughly cleared through feces and urine within 5 days, showing high biosafety for further potential clinical translation. This novel photoacoustic imaging‐guided photothermal therapy based on u‐Cu2−xS NDs composed of a single component shows great prospects as a multifunctional nanoplatform with integration and multifunction for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Role of Muscle Stem Cells During Skeletal Regeneration
Authors: Abou-Khalil Rana , Yang Frank , Lieu Shirley , Julien Anais , Perry Jaselle , Pereira Catia , Relaix Frédéric , Miclau Theodore , Marcucio Ralph , Colnot Céline
Published: January 2015

Although the importance of muscle in skeletal regeneration is well recognized clinically, the mechanisms by which muscle supports bone repair have remained elusive. Muscle flaps are often used to cover the damaged bone after traumatic injury yet their contribution to bone healing is not known. Here, we show that direct bone-muscle interactions are required for periosteum activation and callus formation, and that muscle grafts provide a source of stem cells for skeletal regeneration. We investigated the role of satellite cells, the muscle stem cells. Satellite cells loss in Pax7−/− mice and satellite cell ablation in Pax7CreERT2/+;DTAf/f mice impaired bone regeneration. Although satellite cells did not contribute as a large source of cells endogenously, they exhibited a potential to contribute to bone repair after transplantation. The fracture healing phenotype in Pax7CreERT2/+;DTAf/f mice was associated with decreased bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), insulin-like growth factor 1, and fibroblast growth factor 2 expression that are normally upregulated in response to fracture in satellite cells. Exogenous rhBMP2 improved bone healing in Pax7CreERT2/+;DTAf/f mice further supporting the role of satellite cells as a source of growth factors. These results provide the first functional evidence for a direct contribution of muscle to bone regeneration with important clinical implications as it may impact the use of muscle flaps, muscle stem cells, and growth factors in orthopedic applications. Stem Cells  2015;33:1501–1511
The managing director wants 100% automated testing. A case history
Authors: Fewster Mark
Published: January 2015

Manual testing was taking 38 man weeks for every release on every platform. With more hardware platforms coming onto the market and increasing commercial pressure to ship more products sooner, the ability to survive by manual testing alone came into question. Effort was expended on automating integration testing as a trial. The results were good but not as spectacular as had been hoped for. Nonetheless, automated system test was investigated whilst retaining the same test coverage achieved by manual testing. Many changes were made, and many problems encountered with the non‐technical problems having an unexpectedly large impact – some of them almost destroyed the attempt at automation. Test automation has been successful, although the benefits are only now becoming apparent. More products are being released in less time than had ever been achieved before.
Software testing tools: A new classification scheme
Authors: Graham Dorothy R.
Published: January 2015

Software testing tools have proliferated in recent years, and a number of tool classification schemes have been published. In order to provide common reference points for potential purchasers and tool vendors, to ease the comparison of tools with similar functionality, and to assist future research into tool‐supportable software testing, a new classification scheme for testing tools is proposed. The scheme uses six major categories: Test Management, Test Design, Non‐Execution Evaluation, Test Execution. Test Analysis, and Test Quality Evaluation. Other classification schemes are reviewed and compared with the new scheme, and predictions are made concerning future trends in the area of software testing tools. It is hoped that the proposed classification, which is founded on the combination of two current schemes, will provide a basis for discussions that will lead eventually to an international standardisation of tool descriptions.
Engage campus in strategic planning with a focus on students
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: January 2015

At one time, officials at Johnson County Community College could take an “If we build it, they will come” approach to recruiting students. In fact, the college didn't have a recruiter until 2007, said Paul Kyle, dean of student services and success.
A participatory systems approach to understanding climate adaptation needs
Authors: Ross Helen , Shaw Sylvie , Rissik David , Cliffe Neil , Chapman Susie , Hounsell Vanessa , Udy James , Trinh Nghia Trong , Schoeman Jess
Published: January 2015

Emerging literature on climate adaptation suggests the need for effective ways of engaging or activating communities and supporting community roles, coupled with whole-of-system approaches to understanding climate change and adaptation needs. We have developed and evaluated a participatory approach to elicit community and stakeholder understanding of climate change adaptation needs, and connect diverse community members and local office bearers towards potential action. The approach was trialed in a series of connected social-ecological systems along a transect from a rural area to the coast and islands of ecologically sensitive Moreton Bay in Queensland, Australia. We conducted ‘climate roundtables’ in each of three areas along the transect, then a fourth roundtable reviewed and extended the results to the region as a whole. Influence diagrams produced through the process show how each climate variable forecast to affect this region (heat, storm, flood, sea-level rise, fire, drought) affects the natural environment, infrastructure, economic and social behaviour patterns, and psychosocial responses, and how sets of people, species and ecosystems are affected, and act, differentially. The participatory process proved effective as a way of building local empathy, a local knowledge base and empowering participants to join towards future climate adaptation action. Key principles are highlighted to assist in adapting the process for use elsewhere.
Effects on cognitive and clinical insight with the use of Guided Self-Determination in outpatients with schizophrenia: A randomized open trial
Authors: Jørgensen R. , Licht R.W. , Lysaker P.H. , Munk-Jørgensen P. , Buck K.D. , Jensen S.O.W. , Hansson L. , Zoffmann V.
Published: January 2015

Poor insight has a negative impact on the outcome in schizophrenia; consequently, poor insight is a logical target for treatment. However, neither medication nor psychosocial interventions have been demonstrated to improve poor insight. A method originally designed for diabetes patients to improve their illness management, Guided Self-Determination (GSD), has been adapted for use in patients with schizophrenia (GSD-SZ). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect on insight of GSD-SZ as a supplement to treatment as usual (TAU) as compared to TAU alone in outpatients diagnosed with schizophrenia. The design was an open randomized trial. The primary hypothesis was cognitive insight would improve in those patients who received GSD-SZ + TAU as assessed by the BCIS. We additionally explored whether the intervention led to changes in clinical insight, self-perceived recovery, self-esteem, social functioning and symptom severity. Assessments were conducted at baseline, and at 3-, 6- and 12-month follow-up. Analysis was based on the principles of intention to treat and potential confounders were taken into account through applying a multivariate approach. A total of 101 participants were randomized to GSD-SZ + TAU (n = 50) or to TAU alone (n = 51). No statistically significant differences were found on the cognitive insight. However, at 12-month follow-up, clinical insight (measured by G12 from the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale), symptom severity, and social functioning had statistically significantly improved in the intervention group as compared to the control group. “Improving insight in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia”, NCT01282307, http://clinicaltrials.gov/.
Give me your self: Gifts are liked more when they match the giver's characteristics
Authors: Paolacci Gabriele , Straeter Laura M. , de Hooge Ilona E.
Published: January 2015

Research on gift giving has devoted considerable attention to understanding whether and how givers succeed in choosing gifts that match recipients' tastes. On the contrary, this article focuses on how recipients' appreciation for a gift depends on the match between the gift and the giver. Four studies demonstrate that recipients are particularly appreciative when they receive gifts that figuratively match the giver, i.e., that contain references to the giver's characteristics, because they perceive such gifts as more congruent with the giver's identity. This effect is not conditional on inferences recipients might make about the giver's motivations or on whether recipients have a good relationship with the giver, but relies on the match concerning core rather than peripheral characteristics of the giver. Importantly for our understanding of identity‐based motivation, these findings demonstrate in a gift‐giving context that identity‐congruence not only drives consumer behavior, but is also appreciated in other people.
Usefulness of admission hematologic parameters as diagnostic tools in acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Celik Ahmet , Ozcan Ismail Türkay , Gündes Ahmet , Topuz Mustafa , Pektas Idris , Yesil Emrah , Ayhan Selcuk , Kose Ataman , Camsari Ahmet , Cin Veli Gokhan
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine the role of red cell distribution width (RDW), neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in the diagnostic phase of acute pulmonary embolism (PE). We screened 248 consecutive patients who were admitted to the emergency service with PE foremost in the differential diagnosis. Based on spiral computed chest tomography, the patients were divided into two groups. There were 112 confirmed cases of acute PE and 138 patients without PE. Blood samples were obtained within 2 hours of presentation and before starting any medication. There were no significant differences between the PE and the non‐PE groups with respect to sex, age, frequency of disease, serum creatinine, sodium, and potassium (p > 0.05 for all). NLR, RDW, and PLR were higher in patients with PE than those without PE. High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, d‐dimer, and troponin levels were also higher in patients with PE. RDW values were positively correlated with troponin levels (r = 0.147, p = 0.021). There were no correlations between RDW and NLR, PLR, or d‐dimer. NLR had a highly positive correlation with PLR (r = 0.488, p < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, troponin I, d‐dimer, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, and RDW were found to be independent predictors of PE [odds ratio (95% confidence interval) respectively: 5.208 (2.534–10.704), 1.242 (1.094–1.409), 1.005 (1.000–1.010), 1.175 (1.052–1.312)]. In receiver operating characteristic analysis of the patients in the study, RDW >18.9 predicted acute PE with a sensitivity of 20.7% and a specificity of 93.4%. In conclusion, RDW can be considered useful as a diagnostic measure for patients with suspected acute PE.
Modulation of the tumor microenvironment and inhibition of EGF/EGFR pathway: Novel anti‐tumor mechanisms of Cannabidiol in breast cancer
Authors: Elbaz Mohamad , Nasser Mohd W. , Ravi Janani , Wani Nissar A. , Ahirwar Dinesh K. , Zhao Helong , Oghumu Steve , Satoskar Abhay R. , Shilo Konstantin , Carson William E. , Ganju Ramesh K.
Published: January 2015

The anti‐tumor role and mechanisms of Cannabidiol (CBD), a non‐psychotropic cannabinoid compound, are not well studied especially in triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). In the present study, we analyzed CBD's anti‐tumorigenic activity against highly aggressive breast cancer cell lines including TNBC subtype. We show here ‐for the first time‐that CBD significantly inhibits epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐induced proliferation and chemotaxis of breast cancer cells. Further studies revealed that CBD inhibits EGF‐induced activation of EGFR, ERK, AKT and NF‐kB signaling pathways as well as MMP2 and MMP9 secretion. In addition, we demonstrated that CBD inhibits tumor growth and metastasis in different mouse model systems. Analysis of molecular mechanisms revealed that CBD significantly inhibits the recruitment of tumor‐associated macrophages in primary tumor stroma and secondary lung metastases. Similarly, our in vitro studies showed a significant reduction in the number of migrated RAW 264.7 cells towards the conditioned medium of CBD‐treated cancer cells. The conditioned medium of CBD‐treated cancer cells also showed lower levels of GM‐CSF and CCL3 cytokines which are important for macrophage recruitment and activation. In summary, our study shows ‐for the first time‐that CBD inhibits breast cancer growth and metastasis through novel mechanisms by inhibiting EGF/EGFR signaling and modulating the tumor microenvironment. These results also indicate that CBD can be used as a novel therapeutic option to inhibit growth and metastasis of highly aggressive breast cancer subtypes including TNBC, which currently have limited therapeutic options and are associated with poor prognosis and low survival rates.
EIGENVALUES AND LINEAR QUASIRANDOM HYPERGRAPHS
Authors: LENZ JOHN , MUBAYI DHRUV
Published: January 2015

Let$p(k)$denote the partition function of$k$. For each$k\geqslant 2$, we describe a list of$p(k)-1$quasirandom properties that a$k$-uniform hypergraph can have. Our work connects previous notions on linear hypergraph quasirandomness by Kohayakawa, Rödl, and Skokan, and by Conlon, Hàn, Person, and Schacht, and the spectral approach of Friedman and Wigderson. For each of the quasirandom properties that is described, we define the largest and the second largest eigenvalues. We show that a hypergraph satisfies these quasirandom properties if and only if it has a large spectral gap. This answers a question of Conlon, Hàn, Person, and Schacht. Our work can be viewed as a partial extension to hypergraphs of the seminal spectral results of Chung, Graham, and Wilson for graphs.
The Criminal Corpse, Anatomists, and the Criminal Law: Parliamentary Attempts to Extend the Dissection of Offenders in Late Eighteenth-Century England
Authors: Ward Richard
Published: January 2015

In the later eighteenth century, two schemes were introduced in Parliament for extending the practice of handing over the bodies of executed offenders to anatomists for dissection. Both measures were motivated by the needs of the field of anatomy, including the improvement of surgical skill, the development of medical teaching in the provinces, and public anatomical demonstrations. Yet both failed to pass into law due to concerns about the possibly damaging effects in terms of criminal justice. Through a detailed analysis of the origins and progress of these two parliamentary measures—a moment when the competing claims of anatomy and criminal justice vied for supremacy over the criminal corpse—the article sheds light on judicial attitudes to dissection as a method of punishment and adds to our understanding of the reasons why, in the nineteenth century, the dread of dissection would come to fall upon the dead poor rather than executed offenders.
Joseph Chamberlain and the Third Reform Act: A Reassessment of the “Unauthorized Programme” of 1885
Authors: Blaxill Luke
Published: January 2015

This article provides the first major analysis of the impact of Joseph Chamberlain's “Unauthorized Programme” on the General Election of 1885 in sixty-five years. Instead of focusing on high politics, it investigates the constituencies. Using quantitative analysis of linguistic data, it contends that historians have underestimated the program's impact on the speaking campaign, especially in the countryside, where its proposals of land reform, church disestablishment, and free education emerged as the dominant issues. That the “Unauthorized Programme” became so important so quickly in rural regions such as East Anglia, where radicalism had historically been weak, owed much to the underestimated importance of the enfranchisement of the agricultural laborer in 1884. Chamberlain's remarkable success in immediately setting the post-reform political agenda and in being seen as the chief threat by Conservative opponents fearful of the recently expanded democracy, arguably placed him in a significantly stronger position in the immediate aftermath of the 1885 election than historians—and perhaps he himself—imagined.