bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro‐EDXRF study of Chalcolithic copper‐based artefacts from Southern Portugal
Authors: Orestes Vidigal R. , Valério P. , Araújo M. F. , Soares A. M. M. , Mataloto R.
Published: August 2015

A collection of 39 metallic artefacts recovered in archaeological sites of Southern Portugal was studied by micro‐EDXRF to identify their compositions and the use of metal among ancient communities. Artefacts presented different typologies such as tools (e.g. awls, chisels and a saw) and weapons (e.g. daggers and arrowheads) mostly belonging to 2500–2000 BC. The results show copper with variable amounts of As and very low content of other impurities, such as Fe, Pb or Sb. Moreover, nearly half of the collection is composed by arsenical copper alloys, and an association was found between arsenic content and typology because the weapons group (mostly daggers) present higher values than tools (mostly awls). These results suggest some criteria in the selection of arsenic‐rich copper ores or smelting products. Finally, the compositions were compared to those of other collections from neighbouring regions and different chronology to determine metallurgical parallels. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coordination of Nickel(II) by 3‐(2‐(Diphenylphosphanyl)phenyl)‐1H‐pyrazole
Authors: Schmidt Alexandra D. , Sun Yu , Thiel Werner R.
Published: August 2015

Starting from easily accessible 3‐[2‐(diphenylphosphanyl)phenyl]‐1H‐pyrazole a series of four‐ and five‐coordinate diamagnetic nickel(II) complexes were synthesized and structurally characterized. The resulting complexes show dynamic NMR spectra reflecting a high degree of flexibility in the ligand backbone. Protonation and deprotonation of the pyrazole moiety allows interconversion of the nickel(II) complexes.
Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism Following Laparoscopic Surgery for Gastrointestinal Cancer: A Single‐Center, Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kimura Yasue , Oki Eiji , Ando Koji , Saeki Hiroshi , Kusumoto Tetsuya , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: August 2015

Background

The occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE), manifesting as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, after gastric and colorectal cancer surgery remains poorly characterized. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of VTE following laparoscopic surgery in Japanese patients with gastric and colorectal cancer and identify the associated risk factors.

Methods

We prospectively analyzed VTE events after laparoscopic surgery for gastric and colorectal cancer from April 2012 to March 2013 in our institute. Deep vein thrombosis was diagnosed with Doppler ultrasound sonography of the lower limb. Thromboprophylaxis, graduated compression stockings, and intermittent pneumatic compression were used in all patients. Fondaparinux sodium was used in several patients. We examined all patients’ plasma D‐dimer levels throughout the perioperative period.

Results

In total, 101 patients were enrolled in this study; 71 who underwent laparoscopic surgery for gastrointestinal cancer were finally analyzed. Thirteen patients (18.3 %) developed asymptomatic VTE. There were no relationships between the development of VTE and perioperative factors such as cardiovascular disease, operation time, blood loss, postoperative complications, and fondaparinux administration. Neoadjuvant treatment (chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy) was significantly associated with VTE (p < 0.05). Plasma D‐dimer levels were higher 7 days after surgery in patients with than without VTE, although the levels remained high after surgery in all patients.

Conclusions

The incidence of VTE among Japanese patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for gastrointestinal cancer was not low. In particular, clinicians should consider the higher risk of VTE in patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy.
Through the Looking Glass: Real‐Time Video Using ‘Smart’ Technology Provides Enhanced Intraoperative Logistics
Authors: Baldwin Andrew C. W. , Mallidi Hari R. , Baldwin John C. , Sandoval Elena , Cohn William E. , Frazier O. H. , Singh Steve K.
Published: August 2015

Introduction

In the setting of increasingly complex medical therapies and limited physician resources, the recent emergence of ‘smart’ technology offers tremendous potential for improved logistics, efficiency, and communication between medical team members. In an effort to harness these capabilities, we sought to evaluate the utility of this technology in surgical practice through the employment of a wearable camera device during cardiothoracic organ recovery.

Methods

A single procurement surgeon was trained for use of an Explorer Edition Google Glass™ (Google Inc., Mountain View, CA) during the recovery process. Live video feed of each procedure was securely broadcast to allow for members of the home transplant team to remotely participate in organ assessment. Primary outcomes involved demonstration of technological feasibility and validation of quality assurance through group assessment.

Results

The device was employed for the recovery of four organs: a right single lung, a left single lung, and two bilateral lung harvests. Live video of the visualization process was remotely accessed by the home transplant team, and supplemented final verification of organ quality. In each case, the organs were accepted for transplant without disruption of standard procurement protocols. Media files generated during the procedures were stored in a secure drive for future documentation, evaluation, and education purposes without preservation of patient identifiers.

Conclusions

Live video streaming can improve quality assurance measures by allowing off‐site members of the transplant team to participate in the final assessment of donor organ quality. While further studies are needed, this project suggests that the application of mobile ‘smart’ technology offers not just immediate value, but the potential to transform our approach to the practice of medicine.
Liver Resection for De Novo Hepatocellular Carcinoma Complicated by Pyogenic Liver Abscess: A Clinical Challenge
Authors: Chok Kenneth S. H. , Cheung Tan To , Chan Albert C. Y. , Dai Wing Chiu , Chan See Ching , Lo Chung Mau
Published: August 2015

Background

De novo hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) complicated by pyogenic liver abscess is rare, and the standard of care for this disease has yet been defined. This study assesses whether liver resection can be recommended as its standard treatment.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed the prospectively collected data of the 1725 patients who underwent primary liver resection for HCC at our hospital during the period from December 1989 to December 2012. Outcomes were compared between patients with and without liver abscess.

Results

Twenty‐two (1.28 %) patients had HCC and liver abscess. Fourteen of them received preoperative drainage. Patients with and without abscess had similar tumor characteristics, but patients with abscess had more operative blood loss (2.2 vs. 0.8 L; p < 0.0001) and more of them needed blood transfusion (63.6 vs. 23.1 %; p < 0.0001). They also had a longer hospital stay (38.5 vs. 10 days; p < 0.0001), a higher hospital mortality (40.9 vs. 2.8 %; p < 0.001), a higher postoperative complication rate (100 vs. 25.9 %; p < 0.0001), and poorer 1, 3, and 5‐years disease‐free survival rates (p = 0.023).

Conclusions

The post‐resection mortality of the patients with de novo HCC complicated by pyogenic liver abscess was so high that liver resection is not recommended as the standard treatment. More research is needed to determine the best therapy for this rare disease.
Reproductive Health CHOICES for Young Adults with Sickle Cell Disease or Trait: Randomized Controlled Trial Outcomes over Two Years
Authors: Gallo Agatha M. , Wilkie Diana J. , Yao Yingwei , Molokie Robert E. , Stahl Christiane , Hershberger Patricia E. , Zhao Zhongsheng , Suarez Marie L. , Johnson Bonnye , Angulo Rigoberto , Carrasco Jesus , Angulo Veronica , Thompson Alexis A.
Published: August 2015

Interventions to assist reproductive health decision‐making in populations affected by sickle cell disease (SCD) or trait (SCT) lack proven efficacy over time. Our aim was to compare effects of CHOICES, a Web‐based multimedia education program on implementing informed reproductive plans, and usual care education (e‐Book) on reproductive knowledge, intention, and behavior over 24 months. We randomized 234 participants with SCD (n = 138) or SCT (n = 96) (age 18–35 years, 35 % male, 94 % African American) to CHOICES and e‐Book groups. Participants completed a sickle cell‐specific reproductive measure before and four times after the intervention (6, 12, 18 and 24 months). Compared to the e‐Book group the CHOICES group had significantly more improvement in knowledge over time (p = .004) but not intention (p = .18) or behavior (p = .69). At baseline, 114 (48.7 %) participants reported having partners who would not put the couple at risk for their children inheriting SCD. Of the 116 (49.6 %) at‐risk participants, a higher poroportion of those who were in the CHOICES group chose partners that reduced their risk by the last visit than the e‐Book group (p = .04). Study findings provide important insights for designing a national trial of the CHOICES intervention focusing on subjects whose partner status puts them at risk for having a child with SCD.
Electronic monitoring of orthopedic brace compliance
Authors: Rahman Tariq , Sample Whitney , Yorgova Petya , Neiss Geraldine , Rogers Kenneth , Shah Suken , Gabos Peter , Kritzer Dan , Bowen J. Richard
Published: August 2015

Purpose

Brace compliance measurement in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has been the subject of a few recent studies. Various sensors have been developed to measure compliance. We have developed a temperature-based data logger—the Cricket—specifically for scoliosis braces, with associated custom software, that is embedded directly in the brace. The purpose of this study was to analyze patterns of brace wear and patient compliance among children with AIS using the Cricket.

Methods

Fifty-five AIS patients prescribed various brace-time regimens were monitored using the Cricket. All subjects were treated with the Wilmington brace. The compliance rate for each group was determined.

Results

Overall compliance among subjects was 69.9 ± 31.5 %. Only 14.5 % met or exceeded prescribed brace time. This is consistent with previous compliance monitoring results.

Conclusion

The results of this study objectively show the difference between prescribed and actual brace wear time and reaffirm the Cricket sensor as an accurate and comfortable brace-monitoring device.
Buying Groceries in Brick and Click Stores: Category Allocation Decisions and the Moderating Effect of Online Buying Experience
Authors: Campo Katia , Breugelmans Els
Published: August 2015

The large majority of online grocery shoppers are multichannel shoppers who keep visiting offline grocery stores to combine convenience advantages of online shopping with self-service advantages of offline stores. An important retail management question, therefore, is how these consumers divide grocery purchases across the retailer's online and offline channel. We provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of category characteristics on the allocation pattern of multichannel grocery shoppers and find that category allocation decisions are affected not only by marketing mix differences between the online and offline channel, but also by intrinsic category characteristics like perceived purchase risk and shopping convenience. In addition, we examine the effect of online buying experience. In line with expectations, we find that it can affect allocation patterns in different ways: (i) it attenuates the perceived risk of buying sensory categories online, thereby reducing differences in online category share, (ii) it reinforces marketing mix (assortment) effects, thereby making online category share differences more pronounced, and (iii) it has no effect for factors such as promotions that are easy to evaluate without experience, thereby leaving the online category share stable. In addition to different experience effects across allocation factors, we also observe variations in experience effects across consumer segments.
An investigation into enlarging and reducing the size of mirror reflections of the hand on experimentally-induced cold-pressor pain in healthy human participants
Authors: Johnson Mark I , Gohil Manish
Published: August 2015

Background and aims

Mirror visual feedback may be a useful clinical tool for reducing pain. Research suggests that reducing the size of a non-painful reflected hand can alleviate complex regional pain syndrome in the affected hand that is out of view. In contrast, research on healthy humans exposed to experimentally induced pain suggests that reducing the appearance of the size of a reflected body part can increase pain. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of enlarging and reducing the visual appearance of the size of a hand using mirror visual feedback on pain threshold, intensity and tolerance in healthy human participants exposed to cold-pressor pain.

Methods

Participants were a convenience sample of 20 unpaid, healthy pain free volunteers aged 18 years or above. Each participant took part in one experiment where they completed cold-pressor pain tests whilst observing normal, enlarged and reduced size reflections of a hand congruent to a hand immersed in the ice cold water. A 4 × 2 factorial repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed on time to pain threshold and pain tolerance, and pain intensity with Condition (four levels: no reflection, reduced reflection, normal reflection, enlarged reflection) being the within-subject factors and Sex (two levels: female, male) between-subject factors.

Results

There were no significant effects for Condition, Sex, or Condition × Sex interaction for pain threshold, intensity or tolerance (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences between the 3 mirror reflection conditions for agreement with the statements: “It felt like I was looking directly at my hand rather than at a mirror image”; “It felt like the hand I was looking at was my hand”; and “Did it seem like the hand you saw was a right hand or a left hand?”.

Conclusion

Enlarging or reducing the size of a hand using mirror visual feedback did not alter pain perception in healthy human participants exposed to cold-pressor pain. The different sizes of hands generated by mirror visual feedback created an illusion of looking at their own hand but this was not as strong as looking directly at the hand.

Implications

In future, investigators and clinicians using mirror visual feedback may consider including an adaptive phase to ensure the reflection has been perceptually embodied. Reasons for the lack of effects are explored to inspire further research in the field.
A high-power narrow-linewidth 1018 nm fiber laser based on a single-mode–few-mode–single-mode structure
Authors: Jiang Man , Zhou Pu , Xiao Hu , Ma Pengfei
Published: August 2015

We demonstrate an all-fiber high-power Yb-doped 1018 nm fiber laser with a Gaussian-shaped output beam profile based on a mismatched structure, which consists of a pair of single-mode fiber Bragg gratings and a section of few-mode double-cladding gain fiber. The output power is up to 107.5 W with an optical-to-optical efficiency of 63%, and the 3 dB band is 0.26 nm at this power level. Such a structure of single-mode–few-mode–single-mode fiber oscillator can be used to generate high-power narrow-linewidth lasing with excellent beam quality in other spectral ranges.
Vitamin D supplementation for the prevention of childhood acute respiratory infections: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Xiao Limin , Xing Chao , Yang Zhongrong , Xu Shaojun , Wang Min , Du Huarong , Liu Kai , Huang Zhaohui
Published: August 2015

Results from recent trials assessing the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the prevention of childhood acute respiratory infections (ARI) have been inconsistent. In the present study, we determined whether vitamin D supplementation prevents ARI in healthy children and repeated infections in children with previous ARI. We conducted a systematic literature search using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The search included only randomised controlled clinical trials (RCT) comparing vitamin D supplementation with either placebo or no intervention in children younger than 18 years of age. We identified seven RCT and found that the summary estimates were not statistically significantly associated with a reduction in the risk of ARI (relative risk (RR) 0·79, 95 % CI 0·55, 1·13), all-cause mortality (RR 1·18, 95 % CI 0·71, 1·94), or the rate of hospital admission due to respiratory infection in healthy children (RR 0·95, 95 % CI 0·72, 1·26). However, in children previously diagnosed with asthma, vitamin D supplementation resulted in a 74 % reduction in the risk of asthma exacerbation (RR 0·26, 95 % CI 0·11, 0·59; test of heterogeneity, I2= 0·0 %). Our findings indicate a lack of evidence supporting the routine use of vitamin D supplementation for the prevention of ARI in healthy children; however, they suggest that such supplementation may benefit children previously diagnosed with asthma. Due to the heterogeneity of the included studies and possible publication biases related to this field, these results should be interpreted with caution.
Black elderberry extract attenuates inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in diet-induced obese mice
Authors: Farrell Nicholas J. , Norris Gregory H. , Ryan Julia , Porter Caitlin M. , Jiang Christina , Blesso Christopher N.
Published: August 2015

Dietary anthocyanins have been shown to reduce inflammation in animal models and may ameliorate obesity-related complications. Black elderberry is one of the richest sources of anthocyanins. We investigated the metabolic effects of anthocyanin-rich black elderberry extract (BEE) in a diet-induced obese C57BL/6J mouse model. Mice were fed either a low-fat diet (n 8), high-fat lard-based diet (HFD; n 16), HFD+0·25 % (w/w) BEE (0·25 %-BEE; n 16) or HFD+1·25 % BEE (1·25 %-BEE; n 16) for 16 weeks. The 0·25 % BEE (0·034 % anthocyanin, w/w) and 1·25 % BEE (0·17 % anthocyanin, w/w) diets corresponded to estimated anthocyanin doses of 20–40 mg and 100–200 mg per kg of body weight, respectively. After 16 weeks, both BEE groups had significantly lower liver weights, serum TAG, homoeostasis model assessment and serum monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 compared with HFD. The 0·25 %-BEE also had lower serum insulin and TNFα compared with HFD. Hepatic fatty acid synthase mRNA was lower in both BEE groups, whereas PPARγ2 mRNA and liver cholesterol were lower in 1·25 %-BEE, suggesting decreased hepatic lipid synthesis. Higher adipose PPARγ mRNA, transforming growth factor β mRNA and adipose tissue histology suggested a pro-fibrogenic phenotype that was less inflammatory in 1·25 %-BEE. Skeletal muscle mRNA expression of the myokine IL-6 was higher in 0·25 %-BEE relative to HFD. These results suggest that BEE may have improved some metabolic disturbances present in this mouse model of obesity by lowering serum TAG, inflammatory markers and insulin resistance.
Technical Change, Non-Tariff Barriers, and the Development of the Italian Locomotive Industry, 1850–1913
Authors: Ciccarelli Carlo , Nuvolari Alessandro
Published: August 2015

The locomotive industry was one of the relatively sophisticated “high tech” sectors in which Italy, a late industrializer, was successful before 1913. Using technical data on the performance of different vintages of locomotives, we construct a new industry-level index of technical change. We also study the impact of different policy instruments (import duties, non-tariff trade barriers, and other discretionary interventions) in shaping the development of the industry. Our reassessment reveals not only the sound technological performance of Italian locomotives and successful industry growth, but also the critical role played by non-tariff barriers for the development of the industry.
The Rise of Effective States in Europe
Authors: Dincecco Mark
Published: August 2015

This review article examines the development of state capacity—the extractive and productive power of states— in European history. To explain the historical evolution of state capacity, I focus on the role of political innovations. I relate state capacity improvements to long-run economic growth and the establishment of twentieth-century welfare states. The article concludes with historical lessons for developing nations today.

“In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this: you must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself.”

James Madison (1788, p. 257)
Loneliness among older people as a social problem: the perspectives of medicine, religion and economy
Authors: SCHIRMER WERNER , MICHAILAKIS DIMITRIS
Published: August 2015

This article offers a theoretical framework for studying loneliness among older people from a social problems perspective. The framework combines the constructionist approach to social problems (Spector and Kitsuse) and systems theory (Luhmann). Based on the first approach, we understand the social problem of loneliness among older people to be the result of claims-making activities by different key actors. These activities are guided by underlying moralities, causalities and solutions. With the second approach, we can explain how social problems are framed differently within different social systems. The proposed framework is primarily aimed at researchers studying social (in contrast to bio-medical or psychological) aspects of loneliness among older people. It helps not only to guide research designs in order to address conflicting perspectives, rationalities and interests but also to enable researchers to grasp fully how ‘loneliness among older people’ is attributed (potentially shifting) meanings through communicative acts by influential stakeholders in the ‘social problems industry‘. Combining constructionism and Luhmann's theory also helps to interpret and explain concrete claims-making concerning loneliness as a social problem. The argument in this article is illustrated via three different social systems: medicine, religion and economy. Loneliness among older people appears to be something different from each of these perspectives: as a matter of health and illness, of spirituality, and of incentives and commodities, respectively.
Fruit and seed traits of the elephant-dispersed African savanna plantBalanites maughamii
Authors: Midgley J. J. , Kruger L. M. , Viljoen S. , Bijl A. , Steenhuisen S.-L.
Published: August 2015

Balanites maughamiiappears to be an obligate elephant-dispersed species. Its fruits are strongly scented and produce a large range of volatiles, particularly aliphatic acids such as hexanoic and isovaleric acid. The seed coat can resist a compression force of >1.5 kN. Seeds removed from the seed coat, and those from compressed seeds or from elephant dung, have better germination than seeds enclosed by undamaged seed-coats, which largely failed to germinate over a 2-mo period. Mastication by elephants may be necessary to split the seed coat to allow germination and the germinant to emerge from the seed coat. We identify four traits of elephant-dispersed fruits; they are dull-coloured, presented on the ground, strongly scented and have exceptionally strong seed coats.
Clarifying the anatomy of hearts with concordant ventriculo-arterial connections but abnormally related arterial trunks
Authors: Gupta Saurabh K. , Ramakrishnan Sivasubramanian , Gulati Gurpreet S. , Henry G. William , Spicer Diane E. , Backer Carl L. , Anderson Robert H.
Published: August 2015

Hearts in which the arterial trunks arise from the morphologically appropriate ventricles, but in a parallel manner, rather than the usual spiralling arrangement, have long fascinated anatomists. These rare entities, for quite some time, were considered embryological impossibilities, but ongoing experience has shown that they can be found in various segmental combinations. Problems still exist about how best to describe them, as the different variants are often described with esoteric terms, such as anatomically corrected malposition or isolated ventricular inversion. In this review, based on our combined clinical and morphological experience, we demonstrate that the essential feature of all hearts described in this manner is a parallel arrangement of the arterial trunks as they exit from the ventricular mass. We show that the relationship of the arterial roots needs to be described in terms of the underlying ventricular topology, rather than according to the arrangement of the atrial chambers. We then discuss the importance of determining atrial arrangement on the basis of the morphology of the appendages, following the precepts as set out in the so-called “morphological method” and distinguished according to the extent of the pectinate muscles relative to the atrioventricular junctions as opposed to basing diagnosis on the venoatrial connections. We show that, when approached in this manner, the various combinations can be readily diagnosed in the clinical setting and described in straightforward way.
PERTURBATION OF THE SEMICLASSICAL SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION ON NEGATIVELY CURVED SURFACES
Authors: Eswarathasan Suresh , Rivière Gabriel
Published: August 2015

We consider the semiclassical Schrödinger equation on a compact negatively curved surface. For any sequence of initial data microlocalized on the unit cotangent bundle, we look at the quantum evolution (below the Ehrenfest time) under small perturbations of the Schrödinger equation, and we prove that, in the semiclassical limit, and for typical perturbations, the solutions become equidistributed on the unit cotangent bundle.
THE LIBERAL ORIGINS OF JOHN UPDIKE’S LITERARY IMAGINATION
Authors: FROMER YOAV
Published: August 2015

This article, through a close engagement with John Updike's work, explores the manner in which the postwar liberal temper shaped American fiction. By contextualizing the novelist's early writings within the changing intellectual climate of the period, it demonstrates how his liberal sensibilities deeply informed his literary imagination. The essay employs new archival material about Updike's Harvard education and sketches his political biography—the first of its kind—to offer a fresh and more nuanced understanding of Updike as not only a gifted writer but also a political thinker. Although he chose the less traveled road of fiction to do so, Updike expressed a particular temperament pervasive among many liberal intellectuals at the time. By challenging the widely held view of him as an apolitical writer, the article also enriches our understanding of the meanings and complexities of postwar liberalism while illuminating the often overlooked link between literature and politics.
Accurate and efficient study of substrate-integrated waveguide devices using iterative wave method
Authors: Ben Romdhan Hajri Jamel , Hrizi Hafedh , Sboui Noureddine
Published: August 2015

This paper proposes an efficient and fast analysis of substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) components using a new approach of the iterative method called WCIP, i.e. “Wave Concept Iterative Process”. This method is based on the iterative resolution of waves between two domains. The first is the spectral domain. We use the Floquet–Bloch decomposition to describe all modes in the spectral domain. The second describes the configuration of the circuit in the spatial domain. It allows taking the exact structure according to the appropriate boundary conditions. This method permits to reduce numerical complexity. The convergence of this approach is always guaranteed. The theoretical suggested study is validated by the simulation of two different examples of SIW circuits. The obtained results are in good agreement with those of measurement and with software HFSS simulations, which prove the advantage of this method.
Hepatic IGF1 DNA methylation is influenced by gender but not by intrauterine growth restriction in the young lamb
Authors: Carr D. J. , Milne J. S. , Aitken R. P. , Adam C. L. , Wallace J. M.
Published: August 2015

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and postnatal catch-up growth confer an increased risk of adult-onset disease. Overnourishment of adolescent ewes generates IUGR in ∼50% of lambs, which subsequently exhibit increased fractional growth rates. We investigated putative epigenetic changes underlying this early postnatal phenotype by quantifying gene-specific methylation at cytosine:guanine (CpG) dinucleotides. Hepatic DNA/RNA was extracted from IUGR [eight male (M)/nine female (F)] and normal birth weight (12 M/9 F) lambs. Polymerase chain reaction was performed using primers targeting CpG islands in 10 genes: insulin, growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)1, IGF2, H19, insulin receptor, growth hormone receptor, IGF receptors 1 and 2, and the glucocorticoid receptor. Using pyrosequencing, methylation status was determined by quantifying cytosine:thymine ratios at 57 CpG sites. Messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of IGF system genes and plasma IGF1/insulin were determined. DNA methylation was independent of IUGR status but sexual dimorphism in IGF1 methylation was evident (MF (both P<0.001). IGF1 mRNA expression correlated negatively with IGF1 methylation (r=−0.507, P=0.002) and positively with plasma IGF1 (r=0.884, P<0.001). Carcass and empty body weights were greater in males (P=0.002–0.014) and this gender difference in early body conformation was mirrored by sexual dimorphism in hepatic IGF1 DNA methylation, mRNA expression and plasma IGF1 concentrations.
The efficacy and acceptability of psychological interventions for depression: where we are now and where we are going
Authors: Hollon Steven. D.
Published: August 2015

Depression is an eminently treatable disorder, although estimates of treatment efficacy have been inflated by publication bias. Patients with less severe depressions respond to even nonspecific interventions, whereas patients with more severe depressions require treatments that mobilize specific mechanisms. The cognitive and behavior therapies can be as efficacious as medications in the treatment of severe depression and have an enduring effect that medications lack. Medications may interfere with those enduring effects when added in combination and may prolong the life of the underlying episode when used alone. Thus the cognitive behavioral interventions might be the optimal first-line treatments for depression.
Das Schulprogramm als Instrument
Authors: Nies Christoph Sebastian
Published: August 2015

Zusammenfassung. Ein Schulprogramm ist ein Steuerungsinstrument der Qualitätsentwicklung in Bildungseinrichtungen und wird in den meisten der Schulen in Deutschland erfolgreich eingesetzt. In Pflegebildungseinrichtungen ist dieses Instrument, trotz immenser aktueller und zukünftiger Entwicklungsbedarfe, kaum zu finden. Dieser Artikel und die zugrunde liegende Forschungsarbeit gehen der Frage nach, welche Strategien in der Umsetzung im Pflegebildungsbereich sinnvoll erscheinen und welche Entwicklungspotentiale identifiziert werden können.
Schwierige Schüler/innen und ihre Lehrer/innen
Authors: Oelke Uta
Published: August 2015

Zusammenfassung. Aus dem Seminar „Lehrerhaltung“ hat sich das Thema „Schwierige Schüler/innen und ihre Lehrer/innen“ entwickelt. Der erste, eher allgemeine Teil konzentriert sich auf „Empirische Befunde und Empfehlungen für die pädagogische Praxis“. In einem zweiten, eher pflegespezifischen Teil (Heft 5/2015) werden unter der Überschrift „Schülerporträts von Pflegelehrenden“ typische Muster schwierigen Schülerverhaltens vorgestellt und in ihren Auswirkungen auf die Lehrenden interpretiert.
Risikokompetenz in der Pflege
Authors: Drube Patricia
Published: August 2015

Zusammenfassung. Steht eine hohe 5-Jahres-Überlebensrate für eine hohe Qualität der Gesundheitsversorgung? Ist ein positiver Testbefund gleichbedeutend mit einer sicheren Diagnose? Dieser Artikel stellt vier systematische Täuschungen vor, die im Zusammenhang mit Gesundheitsinformationen häufig vorkommen. Er zeigt auf, welche Kompetenzen Pflegefachpersonen erwerben sollten, um ihre Rolle als Berater und Fürsprecher adäquat wahrnehmen zu können.
HMGB1 in the pathogenesis of ultraviolet-induced ocular surface inflammation
Authors: Han S J , Min H J , Yoon S C , Ko E A , Park S J , Yoon J-H , Shin J-S , Seo K Y
Published: August 2015

High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) functions as a transcription-enhancing nuclear protein as well as a crucial cytokine that regulates inflammation. This study demonstrated that secretion of HMGB1 due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation inducing ocular surface inflammation-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. After treating conjunctival epithelial cells with UV radiation, HMGB1 was translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and then eventually to the extracellular space. HMGB1 played a crucial role in UV-induced conjunctival neutrophil infiltration, which subsided when mice were pretreated with the HMGB1 inhibitors soluble receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (sRAGEs) and HMGB1 A box protein. In case of using ROS quencher, there was decrease in UV-induced HMGB1 secretion in conjunctival epithelial cells and mice. Considering that UV-induced chronic inflammation causes ocular surface change as pterygium, we have confirmed high HMGB1 translocation and ROS expression in human pterygium. Our findings therefore revealed a previously unknown mechanism of UV-induced ocular inflammation related to ROS and HMGB1 suggesting a new medical therapeutic target.
The novel protective role of P27 in MLN4924-treated gastric cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Q , Hou D , Luo Z , Chen P , Lv B , Wu L , Ma Y , Chu Y , Liu H , Liu F , Yu S , Zhang J , Yang D , Liu J
Published: August 2015

The tumor-suppressor gene cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (P27) is downregulated in gastric cancer cells mainly through proteolytic degradation mediated by the SKP-Cullin1-F-Box (SCF) complex. But the correlation between its downregulation and gastric cancer prognosis still remains indefinite. MLN4924, an anti-tumor agent, which suppresses the SCF complex by inhibiting Cullin1 neddylation, emerges as a promising tool to elucidate its functions in gastric cancer cells. In this study, MLN4924 induced significant growth inhibition of gastric cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner, along with the simultaneous accumulation of P27 and cell cycle abnormalities such as G2/M arrest. Importantly, we found that P27 silencing in MLN4924-treated cells resulted in an enhancement of growth inhibition both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanism analysis revealed the antagonism effects of antioxidants to this excess apoptosis, suggesting reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction especially in the mitochondria was the principal cause of the augmentation. Moreover, the robust ROS attacked the mitochondria to initiate collapse of the mitochondrial membrane permeability and the exportation of apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), IAP-binding mitochondrial protein (SMAC/DIABLO) and cytochrome c. Finally, we also found that P27 knockdown affected the expression profile of several critical BH3 family members to amplify the mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. In summary, our findings unveiled a protective role of P27 by maintaining mitochondrial membrane permeability in MLN4924-treated gastric cancer cells, and therefore highlighted the potential combination of MLN4924 with P27 inhibition to improve its therapeutic efficacy.
CD40 ligand induces RIP1-dependent, necroptosis-like cell death in low-grade serous but not serous borderline ovarian tumor cells
Authors: Qiu X , Klausen C , Cheng J-C , Leung P C K
Published: August 2015

Ovarian high-grade serous carcinomas (HGSCs) and invasive low-grade serous carcinomas (LGSCs) are considered to be distinct entities. In particular, LGSCs are thought to arise from non-invasive serous borderline ovarian tumors (SBOTs) and show poor responsiveness to conventional chemotherapy. The pro-apoptotic effects of CD40 ligand (CD40L) have been demonstrated in HGSC, though the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Conversely, the therapeutic potential of the CD40L-CD40 system has yet to be evaluated in LGSC. We now show that CD40 protein is focally expressed on tumor cells in two of five primary LGSCs compared with no expression in eight primary SBOTs. Treatment with CD40L or agonistic CD40 antibody decreased the viability of LGSC-derived MPSC1 and VOA1312 cells, but not SBOT3.1 cells. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting CD40 was used to show that it is required for these reductions in cell viability. CD40L treatment increased cleaved caspase-3 levels in MPSC1 cells though, surprisingly, neither pan-caspase inhibitor nor caspase-3 siRNA reversed or even attenuated CD40L-induced cell death. In addition, CD40-induced cell death was not affected by knockdown of the mitochondrial proteins apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) and endonuclease G (EndoG). Interestingly, CD40L-induced cell death was blocked by necrostatin-1, an inhibitor of receptor-interacting protein 1 (RIP1), and attenuated by inhibitors of RIP3 (GSK’872) or MLKL (mixed lineage kinase domain-like; necrosulfonamide). Our results indicate that the upregulation of CD40 may be relatively common in LGSC and that CD40 activation induces RIP1-dependent, necroptosis-like cell death in LGSC cells.
Transglutaminase 2—a novel inhibitor of adipogenesis
Authors: Myneni V D , Melino G , Kaartinen M T
Published: August 2015

Differentiation of preadipocytes to lipid storing adipocytes involves extracellular signaling pathways, matrix remodeling and cytoskeletal changes. A number of factors have been implicated in maintaining the preadipocyte state and preventing their differentiation to adipocytes. We have previously reported that a multifunctional and protein crosslinking enzyme, transglutaminase 2 (TG2) is present in white adipose tissue. In this study, we have investigated TG2 function during adipocyte differentiation. We show that TG2 deficient mouse embryonic fibroblasts (Tgm2−/− MEFs) display increased and accelerated lipid accumulation due to increased expression of major adipogenic transcription factors, PPARγ and C/EBPα. Examination of Pref-1/Dlk1, an early negative regulator of adipogenesis, showed that the Pref-1/Dlk1 protein was completely absent in Tgm2−/− MEFs during early differentiation. Similarly, Tgm2−/− MEFs displayed defective canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling with reduced β-catenin nuclear translocation. TG2 deficiency also resulted in reduced ROCK kinase activity, actin stress fiber formation and increased Akt phosphorylation in MEFs, but did not alter fibronectin matrix levels or solubility. TG2 protein levels were unaltered during adipogenic differentiation, and was found predominantly in the extracellular compartment of MEFs and mouse WAT. Addition of exogenous TG2 to Tgm2+/+ and Tgm2−/− MEFs significantly inhibited lipid accumulation, reduced expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα, promoted the nuclear accumulation of β-catenin, and recovered Pref-1/Dlk1 protein levels. Our study identifies TG2 as a novel negative regulator of adipogenesis.
Lipid-bilayer-assisted two-dimensional self-assembly of DNA origami nanostructures
Authors: Suzuki Yuki , Endo Masayuki , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: August 2015

Self-assembly is a ubiquitous approach to the design and fabrication of novel supermolecular architectures. Here we report a strategy termed ‘lipid-bilayer-assisted self-assembly’ that is used to assemble DNA origami nanostructures into two-dimensional lattices. DNA origami structures are electrostatically adsorbed onto a mica-supported zwitterionic lipid bilayer in the presence of divalent cations. We demonstrate that the bilayer-adsorbed origami units are mobile on the surface and self-assembled into large micrometre-sized lattices in their lateral dimensions. Using high-speed atomic force microscopy imaging, a variety of dynamic processes involved in the formation of the lattice, such as fusion, reorganization and defect filling, are successfully visualized. The surface modifiability of the assembled lattice is also demonstrated by in situ decoration with streptavidin molecules. Our approach provides a new strategy for preparing versatile scaffolds for nanofabrication and paves the way for organizing functional nanodevices in a micrometer space.
Optical control of NMDA receptors with a diffusible photoswitch
Authors: Laprell Laura , Repak Emilienne , Franckevicius Vilius , Hartrampf Felix , Terhag Jan , Hollmann Michael , Sumser Martin , Rebola Nelson , DiGregorio David A. , Trauner Dirk
Published: August 2015

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) play a central role in synaptic plasticity, learning and memory, and are implicated in various neuronal disorders. We synthesized a diffusible photochromic glutamate analogue, azobenzene-triazole-glutamate (ATG), which is specific for NMDARs and functions as a photoswitchable agonist. ATG is inactive in its dark-adapted trans-isoform, but can be converted into its active cis-isoform using one-photon (near UV) or two-photon (740 nm) excitation. Irradiation with violet light photo-inactivates ATG within milliseconds, allowing agonist removal on the timescale of NMDAR deactivation. ATG is compatible with Ca2+ imaging and can be used to optically mimic synaptic coincidence detection protocols. Thus, ATG can be used like traditional caged glutamate compounds, but with the added advantages of NMDAR specificity, low antagonism of GABAR-mediated currents, and precise temporal control of agonist delivery.
PAQR3 modulates cholesterol homeostasis by anchoring Scap/SREBP complex to the Golgi apparatus
Authors: Xu Daqian , Wang Zheng , Zhang Yuxue , Jiang Wei , Pan Yi , Song Bao-Liang , Chen Yan
Published: August 2015

Cholesterol biosynthesis is regulated by transcription factors SREBPs and their escort protein Scap. On sterol depletion, Scap/SREBP complex is transported from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi apparatus where SREBP is activated. Under cholesterol sufficient condition, Insigs act as anchor proteins to retain Scap/SREBP in the ER. However, the anchor protein of Scap/SREBP in the Golgi is unknown. Here we report that a Golgi-localized membrane protein progestin and adipoQ receptors 3 (PAQR3) interacts with Scap and SREBP and tethers them to the Golgi. PAQR3 promotes Scap/SREBP complex formation, potentiates SREBP processing and enhances lipid synthesis. The mutually exclusive interaction between Scap and PAQR3 or Insig-1 is regulated by cholesterol level. PAQR3 knockdown in liver blunts SREBP pathway and decreases hepatic cholesterol content. Disrupting the interaction of PAQR3 with Scap/SREBP by a synthetic peptide inhibits SREBP processing and activation. Thus, PAQR3 regulates cholesterol homeostasis by anchoring Scap/SREBP to the Golgi and disruption of such function reduces cholesterol biosynthesis.
Fracture Mechanism and Toughness Optimization of Macroscopic Thick Graphene Oxide Film
Authors: Ye Shibing , Chen Bin , Feng Jiachun
Published: August 2015

Combined high strength and toughness of film materials are rather important for their industrial applications. As a new class of films, graphene oxide films (GOFs) attract intense attention in many applications but are frequently divergent, inconsistent and poorly reproducible in their mechanical properties. In this study, we first demonstrate that different chemical compositions and assembly structures probably are responsible for the difference in elongations between cast GOFs and filtration GOFs. Comprehensive analysis of the morphologies and mechanical properties indicates that the enhanced elongation of the thick cast GOFs is mainly attributed to the presence of a unique skin-wrinkles-skin structure, which more easily forms in cast GOFs than in filtration counterparts. On the basis of this finding, we attempt to optimize the strength-toughness performance of the cast GOFs by adjusting their structures. With an appropriate thickness of 12.5 μm, the GOFs can achieve an ultrahigh toughness up to 4.37 MJ m−3, which is even comparable to the polymer-toughening graphene/GO-based paper-like materials. Such an optimization of the mechanical properties from the perspective of skin-wrinkles-skin structure appears to be a universal approach that could be extended to a variety of other film materials.
Overexpression Of Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor-1beta Predicting Poor Prognosis Is Associated With Biliary Phenotype In Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yu Dan-Dan , Jing Ying-Ying , Guo Shi-Wei , Ye Fei , Lu Wen , Li Quan , Dong Yu-Long , Gao Lu , Yang Yu-Ting , Yang Yang , Wu Meng-Chao , Wei Li-Xin
Published: August 2015

Hepatocyte nuclear factor-1beta (HNF-1B) is involved in the hepatobiliary specification of hepatoblasts to cholangiocytes during liver development and is strongly expressed throughout adult biliary epithelium. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of HNF-1B in different pathologic subtypes of primary liver cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and the relationship between HNF-1B expression, clinicopathological features and prognosis. We retrospectively investigated 2 cohorts of patients, including 183 HCCs and 69 ICCs. The expression of HNF-1B was examined by immunohistochemistry. We found that HNF-1B expression was associated with pathological subtype of primary tumor and HNF-1B expression in HCC tissue may be associated with the change of phenotype on recurrence. The HNF-1B expression was positively correlated with biliary/HPC (hepatic progenitor cell) markers expression. Further, multivariable analysis showed that HNF-1B expression was an independent prognostic factor for both overall survival and disease-free survival of HCC patients. However, no correlation between HNF-1B expression and survival was found in ICC patients. In summary, HCC with high HNF-1B expression displayed biliary phenotype and tended to show poorer prognosis. HNF-1B-positive malignant cells could be bipotential cells and give rise to both hepatocytic and cholangiocytic lineages during tumorigenesis.
An equation to estimate the difference between theoretically predicted and SDS PAGE-displayed molecular weights for an acidic peptide
Authors: Guan Yihong , Zhu Qinfang , Huang Delai , Zhao Shuyi , Jan Lo Li , Peng Jinrong
Published: August 2015

The molecular weight (MW) of a protein can be predicted based on its amino acids (AA) composition. However, in many cases a non-chemically modified protein shows an SDS PAGE-displayed MW larger than its predicted size. Some reports linked this fact to high content of acidic AA in the protein. However, the exact relationship between the acidic AA composition and the SDS PAGE-displayed MW is not established. Zebrafish nucleolar protein Def is composed of 753 AA and shows an SDS PAGE-displayed MW approximately 13 kDa larger than its predicted MW. The first 188 AA in Def is defined by a glutamate-rich region containing ~35.6% of acidic AA. In this report, we analyzed the relationship between the SDS PAGE-displayed MW of thirteen peptides derived from Def and the AA composition in each peptide. We found that the difference between the predicted and SDS PAGE-displayed MW showed a linear correlation with the percentage of acidic AA that fits the equation y = 276.5x − 31.33 (x represents the percentage of acidic AA, 11.4% ≤ x ≤ 51.1%; y represents the average ΔMW per AA). We demonstrated that this equation could be applied to predict the SDS PAGE-displayed MW for thirteen different natural acidic proteins.