bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived stress and cognitive function in older adults: which aspect of perceived stress is important?
Authors: Korten Nicole C.M. , Comijs Hannie C. , Penninx Brenda W.J.H. , Deeg Dorly J.H.
Published: April 2016

Objective

Few studies examined the association between perceived stress and cognitive function in older adults. This study will examine which aspects of perceived stress especially impact cognitive function.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data of 1099 older adults between 64 and 100 years from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam were used. Perceived stress and its subscales perceived helplessness and perceived self‐efficacy were measured with the Perceived Stress Scale. Cognitive function was assessed regarding memory, processing speed and executive function. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed between the stress measures and the domains of cognitive function.

Results

Perceived stress was associated with worse processing speed, direct and delayed recall, semantic fluency and digit span backwards (rangeβ = −0.10; −0.11;p < 0.01). The subscale perceived helplessness showed negative associations only with processing speed (β = −0.06,p < 0.05) and delayed recall (β = −0.06,p < 0.05), which became nonsignificant after the adjustment for depressive symptoms or sense of mastery. The subscale perceived self‐efficacy was significantly associated with better cognitive function, also after adjustment for depressive symptoms or sense of mastery (rangeβ = 0.10; 0.18;p < 0.01).

Conclusions

In older adults, especially perceived self‐efficacy showed independent associations with a broad range of cognitive functions. Perceived self‐efficacy might be an important factor in reducing stress and the prevention of cognitive decline. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alteration of the regional cerebral glucose metabolism in healthy subjects by glucose loading
Authors: Ishibashi Kenji , Wagatsuma Kei , Ishiwata Kiichi , Ishii Kenji
Published: April 2016

High plasma glucose (PG) levels can reduce fluorine‐18‐labeled fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) uptake, especially in the Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐related regions. This fact is supported by studies showing that the resting‐state activity in diabetes can be altered in the default mode network (DMN)‐related regions, which considerably overlap with the AD‐related regions. In order to expand the current knowledge, we aimed to investigate the relationship between increasing PG levels and the regional cerebral metabolic rates for glucose (CMRglc) as a direct index of brain activity. We performed dynamic 18F‐FDG positron emission tomography with arterial blood sampling once each in the fasting and glucose‐loading conditions on 12 young, healthy volunteers without cognitive impairment or insulin resistance. The absolute CMRglc values were calculated for the volume‐of‐interest (VOI) analysis, and normalized CMRglc maps were generated for the voxelwise analysis. The normalized measurement is known to have smaller intersubject variability than the absolute measurement, and may, thus, lead to greater statistical power. In VOI analysis, no regional difference in the CMRglc was found between the two conditions. In exploratory voxelwise analysis, however, significant clusters were identified in the precuneus, posterior cingulate, lateral parietotemporal, and medial prefrontal regions where the CMRglc decreased upon glucose loading (P < 0.05, corrected). These regions include the representative components of both the DMN and AD pathology. Taken together with the previous knowledge on the relationships between the DMN, AD, and diabetes, it may be inferred that glucose loading induces hypometabolism in the AD‐related and DMN‐related regions. Hum Brain Mapp 37:2823–2832, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Who Gained Insurance Coverage in 2014, the First Year of Full ACA Implementation?
Authors: Courtemanche Charles , Marton James , Yelowitz Aaron
Published: April 2016

The most significant pieces of the Affordable Care Act (exchanges, subsidies, Medicaid expansion, and individual mandate), implemented in 2014, were associated with sizable gains in coverage nationally that were divided equally between gains in Medicaid and private coverage. These national trends mask heterogeneity in gains by state Medicaid expansion status, age, income level, and source of coverage. © 2016 The Authors. Health Economics published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Concurrent cetuximab and postoperative radiation in resected high‐risk squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck: A single‐institution experience
Authors: Araki Daisuke , Redman Mary W. , Martins Renato , Eaton Keith , Baik Christina , Chow Laura , Goulart Bernardo , Lee Sylvia , Santana–Davila Rafael , Liao Jay , Parvathaneni Upendra , Laramore George , Futran Neal , Mendez Eduardo , Bhrany Amit , Rodriguez Cristina P.
Published: April 2016

Background

Postoperative cisplatin and radiation is the standard of care for high‐risk squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). We have used cetuximab and radiation in the postoperative setting for patients deemed poor candidates for cisplatin.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 40 patients who received cetuximab and radiation for resected locoregionally advanced SCCHN between 2006 and 2013 at our institution.

Results

The 2‐year Kaplan–Meier estimates were: overall survival (OS) 41%, recurrence‐free survival (RFS) 34%, locoregional control 63%, and distant metastatic control 59%. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status ≥1 predicted for inferior OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 5.43; p = .003), RFS (HR = 4.07; p = .007), and locoregional control (HR = 4.92; p = .04) in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Patients with resected high‐risk SCCHN treated with postoperative cetuximab and radiation have suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. Further study of the efficacy and cost‐effectiveness compared to radiation alone is warranted. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1318–1323, 2016
Prognostic role of the Bethesda System for conventional papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Gweon Hye Mi , Koo Hye Ryoung , Son Eun Ju , Kim Jeong‐Ah , Youk Ji Hyun , Hong Soon Won , Lim Beom Jin
Published: April 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (BSRTC) as a prognostic marker in conventional papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Methods

A total of 397 patients who underwent ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and surgery for conventional PTCs were enrolled. The association between the Bethesda category and histopathologic result was evaluated.

Results

Among the Bethesda categories, a significant difference was found in the presence of extrathyroidal extension (Bethesda category III, 3.2% [7 of 220]; category V, 19.1% [42 of 220]; and category VI, 77.7% [171 of 220]; p < .001) and lymph node metastasis (Bethesda category III, 3.8% [6 of 156]; category V, 16.7% [26 of 156]; and category VI, 79.5% [124 of 156]; p < .001). Multivariate analysis showed that the Bethesda category was independently predictive of extrathyroidal extension (p = .013) and lymph node metastasis (p = .035).

Conclusion

Conventional PTC with a higher Bethesda category at the time of cytology diagnosis would be poor prognosis. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: First–1514, 2016
Successful intraoperative electrophysiologic monitoring of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, a multidisciplinary approach: The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary monitoring collaborative protocol with experience in over 3000 cases
Authors: Macias Alvaro A. , Eappen Sunil , Malikin Ilya , Goldfarb Jeremy , Kujawa Sharon , Konowitz Paul M. , Kamani Dipti , Randolph Gregory W.
Published: April 2016

Background

Although intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) is utilized increasingly, the information on the related anesthesia technique is limited. This study presents an up‐to‐date clinical algorithm, including setup and troubleshooting of an IONM system, endotracheal tube placement, and anesthetic parameters. To our knowledge, this is the first interdisciplinary collaborative protocol for monitored neck surgery based on the published evidence and clinical experience.

Methods

The Departments of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Anesthesiology, and Audiology collaboratively developed a protocol for IONM of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) based on published evidence and our experience with 3000 patients over a 16‐year period.

Results

No complications related to monitoring or endotracheal tube placement were noted when the IONM protocol was implemented at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI). The IONM protocol has proven to be vital in standardizing care and in avoiding intraoperative errors.

Conclusion

An IONM system entails an anesthesiologist who understands the challenges posed by this technique; muscle relaxation must be minimized/eliminated to optimize IONM. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: First–1494, 2016
Clinical outcomes of patients with hypercalcitoninemia after initial treatment for medullary thyroid cancer and postoperative serum calcitonin cutoffs for predicting structural recurrence
Authors: Cho Yoon Young , Jang Hye Won , Jang Ju Young , Kim Tae Hyuk , Choe Jun‐Ho , Kim Jung‐Han , Kim Jee Soo , Kim Sun Wook , Chung Jae Hoon
Published: April 2016

Background

Persistent hypercalcitoninemia is reported in 40% to 60% of patients with medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) after initial therapy, but their clinical outcomes have not been clearly studied. We evaluated the outcomes of MTC with hypercalcitoninemia and assessed the cutoffs of postoperative serum calcitonin for predicting structural recurrence.

Methods

A dynamic risk assessment system was used to categorize clinical outcomes in this retrospective study. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to calculate the calcitonin cutoffs for predicting structural recurrence.

Results

Among 120 patients operated on, 30 (25%) had persistent hypercalcitoninemia. Of that group, 18 (60%) had biochemical persistent disease and 11 (37%) developed structural identified disease, including 1 death (3%). Postoperative calcitonin <29 pg/mL predicted structural disease with 100% sensitivity, 90.5% specificity, and 100% negative predictive value.

Conclusion

One third of the patients with MTC with hypercalcitoninemia experienced structural recurrence, and postoperative basal serum calcitonin might be a simple tumor marker to predict structural recurrence. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: First–1508, 2016
Synthesis and Solution Structure of 1H‐Benzo‐1,5‐diazepine Derivatives with a Perfluoroalkyl Side Chain
Authors: Desens Willi , Winterberg Marleen , Michalik Dirk , Langer Peter
Published: April 2016

The reaction of perfluorinated 3,5‐dioxoesters with 1,2‐diaminobenzenes or 2,3‐diaminonaphthalenes afforded two types of 1H‐benzo‐1,5‐diazepine derivatives containing a perfluorinated side chain. 2,5‐Dihydro‐1H‐benzo‐1,5‐diazepin‐2‐ones were formed by cyclocondensation via the central keto and the ester group, whereas 1H‐benzo‐1,5‐diazepines resulted from cyclocondensation via the two keto groups. The tautomerism and isomerization of these compounds have been investigated by 1H‐, 13C‐, and 19F‐NMR spectroscopy. The 1,5‐diazepines appear in CDCl3 solution as mixtures of two tautomeric forms, the enaminoimine I and diaminodiene II. In DMSO solution, besides I and II, two further species, III and IV, are formed by (E/Z) isomerization on the exocyclic C=C bond.
Expedient Approach to 6‐Bromo‐2‐isopropylidenecoumaranone, a Potential Intermediate for the Synthesis of TMC‐120B, Pseudodeflectusin, and Their Congeners
Authors: Pergomet Jorgelina L. , Kaufman Teodoro S. , Bracca Andrea B. J.
Published: April 2016

A straightforward approach toward 6‐bromo‐2‐isopropylidenecoumaranone, a potential intermediate toward alkaloid TMC 120‐B, pseudodeflectusin, and other natural products, was reported. The synthetic sequence involved the reaction of 3‐bromosalicylaldehyde with chloroacetone and cyclization of the resulting ether to a 2‐acetylcoumaranol intermediate. This was followed by sequential methyl Grignard addition and Jones’ oxidation to the corresponding coumaranone, which was dehydrated to the final product with the methanesulfonyl chloride/pyridine reagent. The protection of the coumaranol as the corresponding THP‐ether resulted in improved product yields.
Not very NICE: deviance, stigma and nutritional guidelines related to healthy weight and obesity
Authors: Hann Alison , Frawley Ashley , Spedding Gillian
Published: April 2016

This paper critically examines the current National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence and National Health Service guidelines on weight management and the avoidance of obesity (NG7). We demonstrate that the guidance is unlikely to produce the desired effect of enabling people to reduce or control their weight through the twin strategies of dieting (primarily using the calories‐in, calories‐out approach) and increasing their levels of exercise. The paper provides a critical examination of these guidelines and concludes that they are unlikely to encourage maintenance of ‘healthy’ weights or prevent obesity, are not based upon particularly strong evidence and are misguided in maintaining a persistent focus upon weight rather than other indicators of health. Moreover, we suggest their promotion may produce a number of unintended consequences, including perpetuating body‐related stigmatisation and anxieties. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Social Competence in Small Firms—Fostering Workplace Learning and Performance
Authors: Lans Thomas , Verhees Frans , Verstegen Jos
Published: April 2016

While it is widely accepted that social networks are key to small‐firm success, detailed studies on the specific contribution of owner‐managers’ social competence to learning and performance are scarce. In this article, the importance of owner‐managers’ social competence was explored in a specific, innovative small‐firm sector in the Netherlands: the agri‐food sector. This was done by means of a qualitative (n = 13) and quantitative (n = 556) study. In the qualitative study, the two social competence domains most frequently cited and employed in entrepreneurial workplace learning practices were a social learning orientation and the ability to interact with strategic social partners. The quantitative study illustrated that social competence, overall, influences small‐firm performance significantly. However, the relationships between social competence and small‐firm performance seem to depend on the specific strategies that owner‐managers pursue. In particular, this research supports the idea of social competence being an important driver of success for specific small‐firm strategies and for the ongoing development of existing and new capabilities. As such, it underlines the importance of the capability‐driven approach to HRD in the small‐firm context. This, in turn, has implications for small‐firm support programs.
Stagnation Point Flow of a Nanofluid Past a Permeable Cylinder with Chemical Reaction
Authors: Shen Ming , Wang Fei , Xiao Tianli , Chen Hui
Published: April 2016

The primary objective of the present paper is to investigate the novel aspect of nanofluid flow near the stagnation‐point past a permeable cylinder with chemical reaction. The prescribed surface heat and nanoparticle fluxes are also taken into account. The improved homotopy analysis method is introduced to obtain the recursively analytic solutions with high precision. The convergence of the obtained series solution is discussed explicitly. Besides, the effects of physically significant parameters on skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt number, local Sherwood number, as well as profiles of velocity, temperature, and nanoparticle volume fraction are examined and discussed in detail. It is found that the local Sherwood number increases when a chemical reaction occurs in the nanofluid. It is also indicated that the increase of the reaction rate parameter leads to a higher temperature and a lower nanoparticle volume fraction.
Intercomparison of soil pore water extraction methods for stable isotope analysis
Authors: Orlowski Natalie , Pratt Dyan L. , McDonnell Jeffrey J.
Published: April 2016

Measurements of δ2H and δ18O composition of pore waters in saturated and unsaturated soil samples are routinely performed in hydrological studies. A variety of in‐situ and lab‐based pore water extraction methods for the analysis of the stable isotopes of water now exist. While some have been used for decades (e.g. cryogenic vacuum extraction) others are relatively new, such as direct vapour equilibration or the microwave extraction technique. Despite their broad range of application, a formal and comprehensive intercomparison of soil water extraction methods for stable isotope analysis is lacking and long overdue. Here we present an intercomparison among five commonly used lab‐based pore water extraction techniques (high pressure mechanical squeezing, centrifugation, direct vapour equilibration, microwave extraction, and cryogenic extraction). We applied these extraction methods to two physicochemically different soil types that were dried and rewetted with water of known isotopic composition at three different water contents. Our results showed that the extraction approach can have a significant effect on pore water isotopic composition as all methods exhibited significant deviations from the spiked reference water, depending secondarily on the soil type and soil water content. Most pronounced, cryogenic water extraction showed large deviations from the spiked reference water, whereas mechanical squeezing and centrifugation provided results closest to the spiked water for both soil types. We also compared results for each extraction method – where liquid water was obtained – on both an OA‐ICOS and IRMS. Differences between these two analytical instruments were negligible for these organic compound‐free waters. We suggest that users of soil water extraction approaches carefully choose an extraction technique that is suitable for the specific research question, adapted to the dominant soil type and water content of the study. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seasonal and event‐based drivers of runoff and phosphorus export through agricultural tile drains under sandy loam soil in a cool temperate region
Authors: Lam W.V. , Macrae M.L. , English M.C. , O'Halloran I. P. , Plach J.M. , Wang Y.
Published: April 2016

Frequent algal blooms in surface water bodies caused by nutrient loading from agricultural lands are an ongoing problem in many regions globally. Tile drains beneath poorly and imperfectly drained agricultural soils have been identified as key pathways for phosphorus (P) transport. Two tile drains in an agricultural field with sandy loam soil in southern Ontario, Canada were monitored over a 28‐month period to quantify discharge and the concentrations and loads of dissolved reactive P (DRP) and total P (TP) in their effluent. This paper characterizes seasonal differences in runoff generation and P export in tile drain effluent and relates hydrologic and biogeochemical responses to precipitation inputs and antecedent soil moisture conditions. The generation of runoff in tile drains was only observed above a clear threshold soil moisture content (~0.49 m3·m−3 in the top 10 cm of the soil; above field capacity and close to saturation), indicating that tile discharge responses to precipitation inputs were governed by the available soil‐water storage capacity of the soil. Soil moisture content approached this threshold throughout the non‐growing season (October – April), leading to runoff responses to most events. Concentrations of P in effluent were variable throughout the study but were not correlated with discharge (p > 0.05). However, there were significant relationships between discharge volume (mm) and DRP and TP loads (kg ha−1) for events occurring over the study period (R2 ≥ 0.49, p ≤ 0.001). This research has shown that the hydrologic and biogeochemical responses of tile drains in a sandy loam soil can be predicted to within an order of magnitude from simple hydrometric data such as precipitation and soil moisture once baseline conditions at a site have been determined. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The identification of an appropriate Minimum Inter‐event Time (MIT) based on multifractal characterization of rainfall data series
Authors: Medina‐Cobo M. T. , García‐Marín A.P. , Estévez J. , Ayuso‐Muñoz J.L.
Published: April 2016

Different hydrological models of sediment entrainment, infiltration, overland flow production, soil loss, landslide occurrence, among others, need rainfall events data. The Minimum Inter‐event Time (MIT) used to separate rainfall events affects their properties. Therefore, it is highly important their correct definition. Various event definitions are commonly used in hydrology, and a high variety of MIT is applied. In this work, an easy method is proposed for deciding the proper MIT in a certain place when dealing with hourly rainfall data series. This new methodology is based on the scale invariance properties of rainfall, analysed with both multifractal and Self‐Organized Criticality theories. The similarity between some parameters from both analyses allows picking out the more appropriate MIT for the hourly rainfall data sets analysed, in Malaga (Southern Spain) and Bullileo (Central Chile). The method can be applied for different rainfall time resolutions according to the purpose of the model that needs the rain event information. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of a nonstationary copula to predict future bivariate low flow frequency in the Connecticut river basin
Authors: Ahn Kuk‐Hyun , Palmer Richard N.
Published: April 2016

Frequency analysis of streamflow provides an essential ingredient in our understanding of hydrologic events and provides needed guidance in the design and management of water resources infrastructure. However, traditional hydrologic approaches often fail to include important external effects that can result in unpredictable or unforeseen changes in streamflow. Moreover, previous studies investigating multiple characteristics of streamflow do not address a nonstationary approach. This study explores nonstationary frequency analysis of bivariate characteristics, including occurrence and severity, of annual low flow in the Connecticut River Basin, United States. To investigate bivariate low flow frequency, copulas and their marginal distributions are constructed by using stationary and nonstationary approaches. Our study results indicate that streamflow used in this study demonstrate significant nonstationarity. Over time, the occurrence and severity of low flows are shown to be lower with the same probability based on the results of nonstationary copulas. Bivariate low flow frequencies in the years 1970, 2000, and 2030, and their joint return periods are estimated under the nonstationary copulas. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Detection of Prosocial Lying by Children
Authors: Eskritt Michelle , Lee Kang
Published: April 2016

The purpose of the present study was to explore the detection of prosocial lying in children. Six‐ to 11‐year‐olds and adults were videotaped telling the truth or a lie about the desirability of an object, sometimes being asked a follow‐up question (i.e., elaborative trials) and other times not (i.e., regular trials). A different group of adults and children then judged the veracity of the individuals' statements in the video clips. Adults and children performed significantly better than chance at detecting lies in the youngest age group, and children's detection performance was unrelated to their age. Child lie detectors, unlike the adults, were also able to discriminate between adults' truthful and untruthful statements in the regular trials, but misidentified adults' truthful responses as lies. They appeared to be more trusting of other children. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is human herpesvirus 8 infection more common in men than in women? Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Begré Lorin , Rohner Eliane , Mbulaiteye Sam M. , Egger Matthias , Bohlius Julia
Published: April 2016

All forms of Kaposi sarcoma (KS) are more common in men than in women. It is unknown if this is due to a higher prevalence of human herpesvirus 8 (HHV‐8), the underlying cause of KS, in men compared to women. We did a systematic review and meta‐analysis to examine the association between HHV‐8 seropositivity and gender in the general population. Studies in selected populations like for example, blood donors, hospital patients and men who have sex with men were excluded. We searched Medline and Embase from January 1994 to February 2015. We included observational studies that recruited participants from the general population and reported HHV‐8 seroprevalence for men and women or boys and girls. We used random‐effects meta‐analysis to pool odds ratios (OR) of the association between HHV‐8 and gender. We used meta‐regression to identify effect modifiers, including age, geographical region and type of HHV‐8 antibody test. We included 22 studies, with 36,175 participants. Men from sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) [OR 1.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09–1.34], but not men from elsewhere (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.83–1.06), were more likely to be HHV‐8 seropositive than women (p value for interaction = 0.010). There was no difference in HHV‐8 seroprevalence between boys and girls from SSA (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.72–1.13). The type of HHV‐8 assay did not affect the overall results. A higher HHV‐8 seroprevalence in men than women in SSA may partially explain why men have a higher KS risk in this region.
Alcohol consumption and colon cancer prognosis among participants in north central cancer treatment group phase III trial N0147
Authors: Phipps Amanda I. , Shi Qian , Limburg Paul J. , Nelson Garth D. , Sargent Daniel J. , Sinicrope Frank A. , Chan Emily , Gill Sharlene , Goldberg Richard M. , Kahlenberg Morton , Nair Suresh , Shields Anthony F. , Newcomb Polly A. , Alberts Steven R. ,   for the Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology
Published: April 2016

Alcohol consumption is associated with a modest increased risk of colon cancer, but its relationship with colon cancer survival has not been elucidated. Using data from a phase III randomized adjuvant trial, we assessed the association of alcohol consumption with colon cancer outcomes. Patients completed a risk factor questionnaire before randomization to FOLFOX or FOLFOX + cetuximab (N = 1984). Information was collected on lifestyle factors, including smoking, physical activity and consumption of different types of alcohol. Cox models assessed the association between alcohol consumption and outcomes of disease‐free survival (DFS), time‐to‐recurrence (TTR) and overall survival (OS), adjusting for age, sex, study arm, body mass, smoking, physical activity and performance status. No statistically significant difference in outcomes between ever and never drinkers were noted [hazard ratio (HR)DFS = 0.86, HRTTR = 0.87, HROS = 0.86, p‐values = 0.11–0.17]. However, when considering alcohol type, ever consumers of red wine (n = 628) had significantly better outcomes than never consumers (HRDFS = 0.80, HRTTR = 0.81, HROS = 0.78, p‐values = 0.01–0.02). Favorable outcomes were confirmed in patients who consumed 1‐30 glasses/month of red wine (n = 601, HR = 0.80–0.83, p‐values = 0.03–0.049); there was a suggestion of more favorable outcomes in patients who consumed >30 glasses/month of red wine (n = 27, HR = 0.33–0.38, p‐values = 0.05–0.06). Beer and liquor consumption were not associated with outcomes. Although alcohol consumption was not associated with colon cancer outcomes overall, mild to moderate red wine consumption was suggestively associated with longer OS, DFS and TTR in stage III colon cancer patients.
The G‐JF Thermostat for Accurate Configurational Sampling in Soft‐Matter Simulations
Authors: Arad Evyatar , Farago Oded , Grønbech‐Jensen Niels
Published: April 2016

We implement the statistically sound G‐JF thermostat for Langevin dynamics simulations into the ESPResSo molecular package for large‐scale simulations of soft‐matter systems. The implemented integration method is tested against the integrator currently used by the molecular package in simulations of a fluid bilayer membrane. While the latter exhibits deviations in the sampling statistics that increase with the integration time step dt, the former reproduces near‐correct configurational statistics for all dt within the stability range of the simulations. We conclude that, with very modest revisions to existing codes, one can significantly improve the performance of statistical sampling using Langevin thermostats.
A Review of Literacy Interventions for Adults With Extensive Needs for Supports
Authors: Copeland Susan R. , McCord Jessica A. , Kruger Ashley
Published: April 2016

Literacy skills enhance opportunities for a meaningful life. Many adults with extensive support needs did not receive effective literacy instruction in school, which limits their future opportunities. We reviewed 17 research studies examining literacy interventions for these adults. We were interested in (a) who were the participants, (b) the types of literacy targets represented, (c) the types of interventions utilized, and (d) the outcomes of these interventions. Findings documented that adults with extensive support needs can and do acquire literacy skills across the lifespan. Although there is a promising trend to teach for meaning using a multi‐component approach, few studies examined transfer of learning beyond the intervention setting. We discuss the implications of findings for future research and for practice.
Absenteeism, Gender and the Morbidity–Mortality Paradox
Authors: Avdic Daniel , Johansson Per
Published: April 2016

Women are, on average, more often absent from work for health reasons than men, but live longer. This conflicting pattern suggests that the gender absenteeism gap arises partly from factors unrelated to objective health. An overlooked explanation is that men and women might have different preferences for absenteeism due to different attitudes to, for example, risk. Using detailed administrative data on absenteeism, hospitalizations, and mortality, we evaluate the existence of gender‐specific preferences for absenteeism and analyze whether these differences are socially determined. We find robust evidence of gender differences in absenteeism that cannot be explained by poorer objective health among women. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of SDF‐1α on low dose BMP‐2 mediated bone regeneration by release from heparinized mineralized collagen type I matrix scaffolds in a murine critical size bone defect model
Authors: Zwingenberger Stefan , Langanke Robert , Vater Corina , Lee Geoffrey , Niederlohmann Eik , Sensenschmidt Markus , Jacobi Angela , Bernhardt Ricardo , Muders Michael , Rammelt Stefan , Knaack Sven , Gelinsky Michael , Günther Klaus‐Peter , Goodman Stuart B. , Stiehler Maik
Published: April 2016

The treatment of critical size bone defects represents a challenge. The growth factor bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP‐2) is clinically established but has potentially adverse effects when used at high doses. The aim of this study was to evaluate if stromal derived factor‐1 alpha (SDF‐1α) and BMP‐2 released from heparinized mineralized collagen type I matrix (MCM) scaffolds have a cumulative effect on bone regeneration. MCM scaffolds were functionalized with heparin, loaded with BMP‐2 and/or SDF‐1α and implanted into a murine critical size femoral bone defect (control group, low dose BMP‐2 group, low dose BMP‐2 + SDF‐1α group, and high dose BMP‐2 group). After 6 weeks, both the low dose BMP‐2 + SDF‐1α group (5.8 ± 0.6 mm³, p = 0.0479) and the high dose BMP‐2 group (6.5 ± 0.7 mm³, p = 0.008) had a significantly increased regenerated bone volume compared to the control group (4.2 ± 0.5 mm³). There was a higher healing score in the low dose BMP‐2 + SDF‐1α group (median grade 8; Q1‐Q3 7‐9; p = 0.0357) than in the low dose BMP‐2 group (7; Q1‐Q3 5‐9) histologically. This study showed that release of BMP‐2 and SDF‐1α from heparinized MCM scaffolds allows for the reduction of the applied BMP‐2 concentration since SDF‐1α seems to enhance the osteoinductive potential of BMP‐2. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 2126–2134, 2016.
Optimization of SDS exposure on preservation of ECM characteristics in whole organ decellularization of rat kidneys
Authors: He M. , Callanan A. , Lagaras K. , Steele J. A. M. , Stevens M. M.
Published: April 2016

Renal transplantation is well established as the optimal form of renal replacement therapy but is restricted by the limited pool of organs available for transplantation. The whole organ decellularisation approach is leading the way for a regenerative medicine solution towards bioengineered organ replacements. However, systematic preoptimization of both decellularization and recellularization parameters is essential prior to any potential clinical application and should be the next stage in the evolution of whole organ decellularization as a potential strategy for bioengineered organ replacements. Here we have systematically assessed two fundamental parameters (concentration and duration of perfusion) with regards to the effects of differing exposure to the most commonly used single decellularizing agent (sodium dodecyl sulphate/SDS) in the perfusion decellularization process for whole rat kidney ECM bioscaffolds, with findings showing improved preservation of both structural and functional components of the whole kidney ECM bioscaffold. Whole kidney bioscaffolds based on our enhanced protocol were successfully recellularized with rat primary renal cells and mesenchymal stromal cells. These findings should be widely applicable to decellularized whole organ bioscaffolds and their optimization in the development of regenerated organ replacements for transplantation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 1352–1360, 2017.
ACTH Modulates PTP‐PEST Activity and Promotes Its Interaction With Paxillin
Authors: Gorostizaga Alejandra Beatriz , Mori Sequeiros Garcia M. Mercedes , Acquier Andrea B. , Lopez‐Costa Juan J. , Mendez Carlos F. , Maloberti Paula M. , Paz Cristina
Published: April 2016

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) treatment has been proven to promote paxillin dephosphorylation and increase soluble protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) activity in rat adrenal zona fasciculata (ZF). Also, in‐gel PTP assays have shown the activation of a 115‐kDa PTP (PTP115) by ACTH. In this context, the current work presents evidence that PTP115 is PTP‐PEST, a PTP that recognizes paxillin as substrate. PTP115 was partially purified from rat adrenal ZF and PTP‐PEST was detected through Western blot in bioactive samples taken in each purification step. Immunohistochemical and RT‐PCR studies revealed PTP‐PEST expression in rat ZF and Y1 adrenocortical cells. Moreover, a PTP‐PEST siRNA decreased the expression of this phosphatase. PKA phosphorylation of purified PTP115 isolated from non‐ACTH‐treated rats increased KM and VM. Finally, in‐gel PTP assays of immunoprecipitated paxillin from control and ACTH‐treated rats suggested a hormone‐mediated increase in paxillin–PTP115 interaction, while PTP‐PEST and paxillin co‐localize in Y1 cells. Taken together, these data demonstrate PTP‐PEST expression in adrenal ZF and its regulation by ACTH/PKA and also suggest an ACTH‐induced PTP–PEST–paxillin interaction. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 2170–2181, 2016. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Biochemistry Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A New Approach to Sensing H Using SBA‐15 Grafted with Fluorene di‐ammonium Groups and Theoretical study
Authors: Badiei Alireza , Yadavi Marzieh , Shayesteh Alireza , Jafari Maryam , Ziarani Ghodsi Mohammadi
Published: April 2016

Fluorene‐di‐ammonium‐functionalized mesoporous silica (FDMS) was prepared through post synthesis grafting method of SBA‐15. The obtained material was characterized by means of small and wide angle X‐ray diffraction, nitrogen adsorptiondesorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spec‐ troscopy, thermo gravimetric analysis and elemental analysis. The results showed that the original structure of SBA‐15 is preserved after the post grafting procedure. Surface area, pore size and pore volume de‐ creased by attaching functional groups to the pore surface. The grafted amount of fluorene on the surface of SBA‐15 was 0.50 mmol with yield about 40.6 %. The emission spectra of FDMS was studied in acid me‐ dia and discussed in details. Computational studies were performed in order to obtain a detailed electronic description of the mechanism of FDMS fluorescence by H+ as well as studying the structure and bonding in the (FDMS)H+. The structural change between FDMS and protonated form can serve as an effective candidate for pH‐indicator, and might be used as acid‐dependent molecular‐sensor models for advanced applications in optical sensors in the future.
Indium Trichloride (InCl3) Catalyzed Synthesis of Fused 7‐Azaindole Derivatives Using Domino Knoevenagel‐Michael Reaction
Authors: Dongare Sakharam B. , Chavan Hemant V. , Surwase Datta N. , Bhale Pravin S. , Mule Yoginath B. , Bandgar Babasaheb P.
Published: April 2016

An efficient and high yielding methodology developed for the synthesis of fused 7‐azaindole derivatives via one pot multicomponent assembly process of cyclic 1,3‐dicarbonyls with substituted aldehydes and 5‐amino‐1‐tert‐butyl‐1H‐pyrrole‐3‐carbonitrile. The transformation occurs via domino Knoevenagel‐ Michael reaction followed by intramolecular cyclization in the presence of catalytic amount of InCl3 (10 mol %). Mild reaction conditions, easy isolation of products, and good to excellent yields in a shorter period of time are the silent features of present methodology. Structures of all the newly prepared compounds have been corroborated by various spectroscopic methods.
Seasonal Variation of Blood Calcium Levels in Children Aged 1–10
Authors: Zhang Meichun , Zhai Rongrong , Liu Jie , Guang Hui , Li Benzhong , Zhang Songtao
Published: April 2016

Background

In this study, the associations of seasons with blood calcium levels in children aged 1–10 have not been evaluated.

Methods

In 2012–2014, whole blood samples were collected from 2,562 children and calcium concentrations were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The associations of seasons with calcium levels were analyzed by multivariable regression.

Results

The mean value of calcium concentrations was 1.61 ± 0.13 mmol/l and the overall deficiency was 29.3%. Overall, compared to those in winter, children in spring and summer had significant lower calcium concentrations that decreased by 1.2% (β = −0.012; 95% CI: −0.021, −0.002) and 1.4% (β = −0.014; 95% CI: −0.023, −0.005), respectively; and corresponding higher calcium deficiencies than those in spring, summer, and autumn with odds ratios (OR) were 1.93 (95% CI: 1.39, 2.66), 1.65 (95% CI: 1.21, 2.24), and 1.57 (95% CI: 1.14, 2.15), respectively. Moreover, this seasonality was more significant in girls in whom calcium concentration in summer decreased by 1.9% (β = −0.019; 95% CI: −0.036, −0.003) and OR for calcium deficiencies in summer was 2.46 (1.38–4.41), compared to the girls in winter.

Conclusions

The seasons have significant association with blood calcium levels, especially in girls. However, the impact of this seasonality on children's health is still unknown.
Reference Intervals of Routine Coagulation Assays During the Pregnancy and Puerperium Period
Authors: Gong Jiao‐Mei , Shen Yong , He Yan‐Xia
Published: April 2016

Background

Significant changes occur in the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems during pregnancy and puerperium in the plasma levels. However, reference ranges based on healthy people are not optimal for informing clinical decisions during the pregnancy and puerperium. Therefore, it is essential to explore coagulation assays’ reference ranges during the pregnancy and puerperium.

Methods

Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT), fibrinogen (Fib.), and D‐dimer were all measured according to the manufacturer's specifications and laboratory standard operating procedure of the STA‐R evolution coagulation analyzer. A total of 11,601 women were enrolled in this study.

Results

The reference ranges for PT, APTT, TT, Fib., and D‐dimer in nonpregnancy period were 10.87–13.76 s, 29.22–44.61 s, 15.39–20.15 s, 1.59–3.97 g/l, and 0–0.56 mg/l, respectively. In early‐pregnancy period, the ranges were 11.14–14.07 s, 29.97–44.69 s, 14.92–19.03 s, 1.98–4.13 g/l, and 0–1.67 mg/l, respectively. In midpregnancy period, the ranges were 9.98–12.84 s, 28.53–40.70 s, 13.51–19.82 s, 2.63–5.19 g/l, and 0–2.81 mg/l, respectively. In late‐pregnancy period, the ranges were 9.48–12.58 s, 28.61–40.80 s, 14.10–19.61 s, 2.80–5.56 g/l, and 0–27.08 mg/l, respectively. In puerperium period, the ranges were 10.85–13.72 s, 30.51–43.02 s, 15.31–19.64 s, 1.14–5.07 g/l, and 1.27–4.85 mg/l, respectively.

Conclusion

We presented reference intervals for coagulation assays from the nonpregnancy to puerperium period that can be adopted in other laboratories after further validation.
Psychological Predictors of Anxiety and Depression in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Garlovsky Jack K. , Overton Paul G. , Simpson Jane
Published: April 2016

Objectives

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder, affecting the motor system with psychological difficulties also frequently reported. While explanations for psychological difficulties are historically situated within a biomedical framework, more recently the relevance of psychological determinants has become a research focus. This review therefore examines this relationship with the two most commonly reported psychological difficulties (anxiety and depression) in people with PD.

Method

Databases were systematically searched up to December 17, 2013, identifying 24 studies meeting inclusion criteria.

Results

Significant predictors of heightened anxiety and depression included increased emotion‐focused coping; less problem‐focused coping; lower perceived control; more dominant beliefs about PD as part of a person's identity and influence on life; less social support and more avoidant personality types.

Conclusions

Relationships between some specific psychological predictors and depression and anxiety seem well supported. The complexity of relationships between these psychological determinants should be taken into consideration when delivering psychological interventions.
Are Borderline Personality Symptoms Associated With Compulsive Sexual Behaviors Among Women in Treatment for Substance Use Disorders? An Exploratory Study
Authors: Elmquist JoAnna , Shorey Ryan C. , Anderson Scott , Stuart Gregory L.
Published: April 2016

Objective

Extant literature has documented a significant relationship between borderline symptoms and substance use disorders. As supported in past work, there is a significant theoretical relationship between borderline symptoms and compulsive sexual behaviors because both disorders share common underlying behaviors and traits. There is no known research that has examined the empirical relationship between borderline symptoms and compulsive sexual behaviors in a population with substance use disorders. To fill this important gap in the literature, this relationship was examined in the current study.

Method

Medical records from 120 women admitted to a private, residential treatment program for substance use disorders were reviewed for the current study.

Results

Hierarchical multiple regression analysis demonstrated that borderline symptoms were significantly associated with compulsive sexual behaviors after controlling for alcohol use and problems, drug use and problems, age, and positive impression management.

Conclusion

Results from this study provide potentially important research and clinical implications, which could ultimately aid treatment and reduce relapse. However, continued research is needed to further examine the relationship between symptoms and compulsive sexual behaviors.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Relationships of Etravirine in HIV‐1‐Infected, Treatment‐Experienced Children and Adolescents in PIANO
Authors: Kakuda Thomas N. , Brochot Anne , Green Bruce , Nijs Steven , Vis Peter , Opsomer Magda , Tomaka Frank L. , Hoetelmans Richard M. W.
Published: April 2016

PIANO (NCT00665847) investigated etravirine pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety in children and adolescents. Treatment‐experienced, HIV‐1‐infected patients (≥6 to <18 years) received etravirine 5.2 mg/kg twice daily (maximum 200 mg twice daily) plus background antiretrovirals. A population pharmacokinetic model was developed, and etravirine C0h and AUC0‐12h were estimated. Relationships among intrinsic/extrinsic factors and etravirine pharmacokinetics and pharmacokinetics with pharmacodynamics were assessed. The best model describing etravirine pharmacokinetics consisted of a single compartment with sequential zero‐ and first‐order absorption following a lag time. Interindividual variability terms were included on clearance (CL/F) and the first‐order input rate constant (KA). The final model estimates (coefficient of variation, %) for CL/F and KA were 46.3 (11) L/h and 1.07 (34) h−1, respectively. Overall, median (range) estimated etravirine C0h and AUC0‐12h were 287 (2‐2276) ng/mL and 4560 (62‐28,865) ng · h/mL, respectively. Exposure was slightly lower in adolescents vs children. Sex and adherence did not affect etravirine pharmacokinetics. Factors significantly affecting etravirine exposure were body weight (higher with lower weight), race (lower in Asians than in white or black patients), and the use of certain HIV protease inhibitors. Virologic response (<50 copies/mL at week 48) was lower in the lowest etravirine AUC0‐12h quartile vs the upper 3 quartiles (41% vs 67% to 76%). Rash occurred more frequently in the highest quartile than in the lower 3 quartiles (52% versus 8% to 20%). Etravirine 5.2 mg/kg twice daily in treatment‐experienced, HIV‐1‐infected children and adolescents provides comparable exposure to that in adults receiving etravirine 200 mg twice daily and is the recommended dose for children and adolescents.
Magnetic adsorption separation process: an alternative method of mercury extracting from aqueous solution using modified chitosan coated Fe3O4 nanocomposites
Authors: Azari Ali , Gharibi Hamed , Kakavandi Babak , Ghanizadeh Ghader , Javid Allahbakhsh , Mahvi Amir Hossein , Sharafi Kiomars , Khosravia Touba
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND

In the present work, Hg (II) is considered as one of the most dangerous elements being released excessively into the environment from various sources. Therefore, the aim of this study is the removal of Hg (II) from wastewater effluent by synthesizing a magnetic chitosan modified with glutaraldehyde (MCS‐GA) as an adsorbent. The composite structure was characterized using SEM/EDAX, FTIR, and XRD techniques. The adsorbent was tested by a batch system to determine the optimum conditions for removing Hg (II) under real conditions.

RESULTS

The results showed that 0.5% GA effectively enhanced the removal efficiency. The maximum adsorption capacity of MCS‐GA was 96 mg g−1 at pH 5.0 and 25 °C. The adsorption isotherm data obeyed the Langmuir model (R2>0.981) and pseudo‐second‐order (R2>0.996) kinetic models. It was also found that Hg (II) adsorption on MCS‐GA is inherently exothermic and occurs spontaneously. The reusability of MCS‐GA was approved over 12 sequential cycles of adsorption–desorption. ANOVA analysis showed that the contact time has a synergistic effect on Hg (II) removal, whereas pH and initial concentration have antagonistic effects.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the synthesized adsorbent was able to remove Hg (II) efficiently under both experimental and real conditions. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry