bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease impairs expression of the type II inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor
Authors: Khamphaya Tanaporn , Chukijrungroat Natsasi , Saengsirisuwan Vitoon , Mitchell‐Richards Kisha A. , Robert Marie E. , Mennone Albert , Ananthanarayanan Meenakshisundaram , Nathanson Michael H. , Weerachayaphorn Jittima
Published: October 2017

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent liver disease worldwide. It may result in several types of liver problems, including impaired liver regeneration (LR), but the mechanism for this is unknown. Because LR depends on calcium signaling, we examined the effects of NAFLD on expression of the type II inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor (ITPR2), the principle calcium release channel in hepatocytes. ITPR2 promoter activity was measured in Huh7 and HepG2 cells. ITPR2 and c‐Jun protein levels were evaluated in Huh7 cells, in liver tissue from a rat model of NAFLD, and in liver biopsy specimens of patients with simple steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). LR was assessed in wild‐type and Itpr2 knockout (Itpr2–/–
) mice following 67% hepatectomy. Cell proliferation was examined in ITPR2‐knockout HepG2 cells generated by the CRISPR/Cas9 system. c‐Jun dose dependently decreased activity of the human ITPR2 promoter. c‐Jun expression was increased and ITPR2 was decreased in fat‐loaded Huh7 cells and in livers of rats fed a high‐fat, high‐fructose diet. Overexpression of c‐Jun reduced protein and mRNA expression of ITPR2 in Huh7 cells, whereas knockdown of c‐Jun prevented the decrease of ITPR2 in fat‐loaded Huh7 cells. ITPR2 expression was decreased and c‐Jun was increased in liver biopsies of patients with steatosis and NASH compared to controls. ITPR2‐knockout cells exhibited less nuclear calcium signaling and cell proliferation than control cells. LR assessed by Ki‐67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen was markedly decreased in Itpr2–/–
mice. Conclusion: Fatty liver induces a c‐Jun‐mediated decrease in ITPR2 in hepatocytes. This may account for the impaired LR that occurs in NAFLD. (Hepatology 2018;67:560‐574).
Determinants of bed net policy implementation: A case study of Southern Benin
Authors: Danhoundo Georges , Wiktorowicz Mary E. , Premji Shahirose Sadrudin , Nasiri Khalidha
Published: October 2017

Background

Malaria is a major global health challenge. This study aims to clarify the manner in which contextual factors determine the use and maintenance of bed nets and the extent to which malaria prevention policy is responsive to them in Southern Benin.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews and direct observations were undertaken with 30 pregnant women in the municipality of So‐Ava from June to August 2015. Key informants in the Ministry of Health and local community health workers were also interviewed regarding malaria prevention policy formation, and the monitoring and evaluation of bed net interventions, respectively. Data were analyzed through categorical content analysis and grouped into themes.

Results

The majority of pregnant women participants (80%) declared non‐adherence to instructions for hanging and maintaining insecticide‐treated nets (ITNs). The distributed bed nets were washed like clothes, which affected their bio‐efficacy, and were in poor condition (ie, torn or had holes). Multiple factors contributed to the poor condition of ITNs: Pregnant women's limited understanding of risk including their inability to connect the key environmental factors to personal risk, gendered responsibility for installing bed nets, and lack of public measures that would enable women to re‐treat or access new bed nets as needed. Poverty that determined structural aspects of housing such as the size and quality of homes and access to bed nets exacerbated the challenges.

Conclusion

Institutionalizing an iterative process of monitoring, review, and responsive adaptation throughout the entire policymaking cycle would better support malaria preventive policy implementation in Benin.
Protective effect of metoclopramide against organophosphate‐induced apoptosis in the murine skin fibroblast L929
Authors: Jaber Basem M. , Petroianu Georg A. , Rizvi Syed A. , Borai Anwar , Saleh Nada A. , Hala Sharif M. , Saleh Ayman M.
Published: October 2017

This study was performed to evaluate the protective efficacy of metoclopramide (MCP) against the organophosphates paraoxon (POX)‐ and malathion (MLT)‐induced apoptosis in the murine L929 skin fibroblasts. L929 cells were exposed to either POX (10 nm) or 1.0 μm MLT in the absence and presence of increased concentrations of MCP. The protective effect of MCP on these organophosphate‐stimulated apoptotic events was evaluated by flow cytometry analysis after staining with annexin‐V/propidium iodide, processing and activation of the executioner caspase‐3, cleavage of the poly‐ADP ribose polymerase, fragmentation of the nucleosomal DNA and disruption of the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψ). Our results showed that increased doses of MCP alone (≥10 μm) did not induce apoptosis or activation of caspase‐3. Pretreatment of the cells with MCP attenuated all the apoptotic events triggered by the organophosphate compounds in a dose‐dependent manner reaching ~70–80% protection when they were preincubated at 1 and 5 μm of the drug before the addition of POX and MLT, respectively. Interestingly, MCP did not offer a significant protective effect against the cytotoxicity of tumor necrosis factor‐α, cisplatinum, etoposide or paclitaxel, which stimulate apoptosis by various mechanisms, suggesting that the anti‐apoptotic effect of the drug is specific to organophosphates. The strong and specific anti‐apoptotic activity of subclinical doses of MCP against the cytotoxicity of organophosphate compounds suggests its potential clinical application in treating their poisoning.
Compressed sensing approach for wrist vein biometrics
Authors: Lantsov Aleksey , Ryabko Maxim , Shchekin Aleksey
Published: October 2017

The work describes features of the compressed sensing (CS) approach utilized for development of a wearable system for wrist vein recognition with single‐pixel detection; we consider this system useful for biometrics authentication purposes. The CS approach implies use of a spatial light modulation (SLM) which, in our case, can be performed differently—with a liquid crystal display or diffusely scattering medium. We show that compressed sensing combined with above‐mentioned means of SLM allows us to avoid using an optical system—a limiting factor for wearable devices. The trade‐off between the 2 different SLM approaches regarding issues of practical implementation of CS approach for wrist vein recognition purposes is discussed. A possible solution of a misalignment problem—a typical issue for imaging systems based upon 2D arrays of photodiodes—is also proposed. Proposed design of the wearable device for wrist vein recognition is based upon single‐pixel detection.
Evaluation of short‐ and long‐term efficacy of chemoradiotherapy for advanced cervical cancer using HSP70 protein combined with multimodal MRI
Authors: Qi Yun‐Xiang , Liu Kun , Yin Jun , Li Lu
Published: October 2017

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of chemoradiotherapy for advanced cervical cancer using heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) combined with multimodal MRI. The protein expressions of HSP70 in biopsy specimens obtained from 101 patients with cervical cancer were detected by immunohistochemistry. Plain MRI scan, DWI, DCE‐MR, and MRS were performed before and after a period of 6 months of chemoradiotherapy. All patients were assigned into the complete response (CR) and partial response (PR) groups. HSP70 protein expression, tumor diameter, and tumor volume were lower in the CR group than in the PR group. The rate of tumor shrinkage, relative positive enhancement integral (rPEI), relative maximum slope of decrease (rMSD), relative signal enhancement ratio at 60 s (rSER60) and maximum SER (rSERmax), mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADCmean) and minimum ADC value (ADCmin) values in the CR group were higher than those in the PR group. Tumor diameter and volume, rSER15 and rSER30 were reduced after chemoradiotherapy, while rMSD, rSERmax, time to peak (TTP), ADCmean and ADCmin were higher after the treatment. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves indicated that HSP70 expression, tumor diameter, rPEI, ADCmean and Cho peak showed the better chemoradiotherapy efficacy. Our data demonstrates that HSP70 protein combined with multimodal MRI may accurately evaluate the chemoradiotherapy efficacy of patients with advanced cervical cancer. The recurrence of cervical cancer significantly decreased in patients with negative expression of HSP70 and HSP70 protein detection provides potential therapy for the prevention, diagnosis, and prognosis of cervical cancer.
Hydrodynamic simulations and biological modelling of an Anammox reactor
Authors: Vilà‐Rovira Albert , Ruscalleda Maël , Balaguer M Dolors , Colprim Jesús
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

The design of anammox process reactors should be addressed to obtain maximum sludge retention and maximum removal efficiency, and also prevent the inhibition of microorganisms. The conventional biological models (activated sludge models, ASM) are only focused to test the influence of operational parameters on the biological performance. This study integrated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and biological modelling (ASM) for the description of a novel anammox reactor configuration.

RESULTS

A full description of the hydrodynamics, the mixing degree of the system and biological performance within the overall reactor domain was obtained. The strong recirculation of the system and the internal plates favoured correct mixing of the overall system, despite a particular point having a preferred flow in the inlet stream of the reactor. From the removal rates distributions calculated with the model, it was feasible to demonstrate that 45% of the domain had a zero reaction order with respect to the ammonium substrate (nitrite was in excess).

CONCLUSIONS

Model integration was demonstrated to be a powerful tool for the design of an anammox reactor. It was useful to obtain information about the overall mixing in the system, determine death zones of flow, and points of maximum and minimum removal efficiency. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The effect of different thermal treatment on the physical properties of PGA/PCL copolymer suture material
Authors: El‐Farahaty K. A. , El‐Bakary M. A. , El‐Sayed N. M.
Published: October 2017

Samples of polyglycolic acid PGA/polycaprolactone PCL copolymer absorbable suture materials, which is called Poliglecaprone PGC copolymer suture, were thermally treated by two different processes. The first method is the direct heat exposure, from 20 to 38 °C, in the surrounding medium. Which is an environmental study. The other method is the annealing process at temperatures ranged from 65, 80, 100, 120, and 140 °C, for two different duration periods 60 and 120 min. This is an extensive technical study. The refractive indices of thermally treated PGA/PCL copolymer sutures were measured using multiple‐beam Fizeau fringes. The birefringence profiles across the suture cross‐sections were studied for different annealing conditions. The effect of heat on the polarizabilty per unit volume, dielectric properties, and suture diameter were investigated. The activation energy for the heating processes was calculated using Arrhenius equation. Microinterferograms are given for illustration.
Uncertainties of gridded precipitation observations in characterizing spatio‐temporal drought and wetness over Vietnam
Authors: Vu Tue M. , Raghavan Srivatsan V. , Liong Shie‐Yui , Mishra Ashok K.
Published: October 2017

Precipitation is an important climate variable to investigate extreme events (e.g. drought and flood) as well as to develop robust strategies for water resources planning and management. Lack of adequate and robust information on precipitation poses great difficulties in understanding the observed climate as well as to validate climate model outputs. To overcome this limitation gridded precipitation data sets have been constructed to supplement the lack of in situ data. This study compares five popular gridded precipitation data sets to evaluate their performance in terms of drought and wetness over Vietnam. These five gridded data sets include: (1) Asian Precipitation Highly Resolved Observational Data Integration Towards the Evaluation of Water Resources (APHRODITE), (2) Climate Precipitation Center (CPC), (3) Climate Research Unit (CRU), (4) Global Precipitation Climatology Center (GPCC) and (5) University of Delaware (UDEL). The recently developed gridded precipitation observational data ‘VnGP’ from Vietnam is used as the reference data set to assess the performance of these five gridded precipitation products. The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) is used to quantify drought and wetness. GPCC and APHRODITE performed reasonably well in reproducing spatial and temporal precipitation patterns. GPCC performs consistently better than APHRODITE in all the statistical tests. Except for UDEL, other gridded data sets able to exhibit the characteristics of drought/wetness (e.g. the percentage of drought events and severity) during strong El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. However, higher uncertainty exists to quantify drought inter‐arrival time in most of the data sets. Furthermore, trend analysis was performed to evaluate the comparative performance of gridded data sets to quantify drought (wet) spells at annual and seasonal time scales. Although the gauge‐based and hybrid satellite–gauge merged products use partly ground truth data, the different interpolation techniques and merging algorithms may contribute to large uncertainties.
Effects of dietary hop (Humulus lupulus L.) β‐acids on quality attributes, composition and oxidative stability of pork meat
Authors: Sbardella Maicon , Racanicci Aline MC , Gois Franz D , de Lima Cristiane B , Migotto Dannielle L , Costa Leandro B , Miyada Valdomiro S
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

The effects of dietary levels of hop β‐acids on physical attributes, lipid oxidation and chemical composition of pork meat were evaluated. Thirty‐two castrated male pigs obtained from a complete block design feeding experiment (6.23 ± 0.42 kg initial body weight (BW) to 20.45 ± 0.95 kg final BW) and fed diets supplemented with 0, 120, 240 or 360 mg kg−1 hop β‐acids during 35 days were slaughtered to sample longissimus dorsi muscle for meat analysis.

RESULTS

No effects (P > 0.05) of dietary hop β‐acids were observed on meat physical attributes. Quadratic effects (P < 0.05) of hop β‐acids were observed on lipid and protein contents and on thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substance (TBARS) values of meatballs, whose equations allowed the estimation of dietary hop β‐acid levels of 176, 169 and 181 mg kg−1 to provide up to 16.20% lipid reduction, 1.95% protein accretion and 23.31% TBARS reduction respectively.

CONCLUSION

Dietary hop β‐acids fed to pigs might reduce lipid, increase protein and reduce lipid oxidation without affecting physical attributes of the pork meat. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of genotype and crop year in the chemometrics of almond and pistachio oils
Authors: Rabadán Adrián , Álvarez‐Ortí Manuel , Gómez Ricardo , de Miguel Concepción , Pardo José E
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Almond and pistachio oils can be considered as interesting products to produce and commercialize owing to their health‐promoting properties. However, these properties are not consistent because of the differences that appear in oils as a result of the genotype and the crop year. The analysis of these variations and their origin is decisive in ensuring the commercial future prospects of these nut oils.

RESULTS

Although significant variability has been reported in almond and pistachio oils as a result of the crop year and the interaction between crop year and genotype, the genotype itself remains the main factor determining oil chemometrics. Oil fatty acid profile has been mainly determined by the genotype, with the exception of palmitic fatty acid in pistachio oil. However, the crop year affects the concentration of some minor components of crucial nutritional interest as total polyphenols and phytosterols.

CONCLUSION

Regarding reported differences in oil, some almond and pistachio genotypes should be prioritized for oil extraction. Breeding programmes focused on the improvement of specific characteristics of almond and pistachio oils should focus on chemical parameters mainly determined by the genotype. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative Study of Abdominal Muscle Thickness on Ultrasonography in Healthy Adolescents and Patients With Low Back Pain
Authors: Rahmani Nahid , Mohseni‐Bandpei Mohammad Ali , Salavati Mahyar , Vameghi Roshanak , Abdollahi Iraj
Published: October 2017

Objectives

Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal disorder among different age groups, including adolescents. The purpose of this study was to compare the abdominal muscle thickness between healthy adolescents and those with LBP.

Methods

One hundred sixty healthy high school adolescents and 80 high school adolescents with LBP participated in the study. All participants were asked to complete a demographic questionnaire and also a visual analog scale and the Oswestry Disability Questionnaire to evaluate the pain intensity and functional disability. Then abdominal muscle thickness was examined with ultrasonography.

Results

The healthy high adolescents included 80 boys and 80 girls, and the adolescents with LBP included 40 boys and 40 girls. The results showed a significant difference between healthy adolescents and those with LBP in terms of abdominal muscle thickness (P < .05). Patients with LBP had smaller abdominal muscles compared with healthy adolescents. No significant difference was found between the groups in terms of the subcutaneous fat dimension (P > .05).

Conclusions

The thickness of abdominal muscles was lower in adolescents with LBP. Future studies with a larger sample and a wider age range are recommended to support the results of this study.
Ultrasound‐Guided Posterior Femoral Cutaneous Nerve Block: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Johnson Christopher S. , Johnson Rebecca L. , Niesen Adam D. , Stoike David E. , Pawlina Wojciech
Published: October 2017

Objectives

To identify any anatomic barriers to local anesthetic spread between the sciatic nerve (SN) and the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve (PFCN) at the level of the infragluteal crease and to describe a potential technique for an ultrasound (US)‐guided subgluteal PFCN block in a cadaveric model.

Methods

Bilateral US‐guided subgluteal injections of a colored latex solution were performed around the SN (15 mL) and PFCN (10 mL) in 4 unembalmed cadavers, for a total of 8 cadaver thighs. The specimens were dissected after latex polymerization to observe the spread of the latex solutions.

Results

With US guidance, the PFCN was visualized deep to the gluteus maximus and slightly superficial or lateral to the SN at the level of the infragluteal crease. The SN and PFCN were found on dissection to be coated with their respective colored latex in all 8 thighs. The SN and PFCN were consistently separated by the deep investing muscular fascia of the thigh, with only 2 thighs showing substantial mixing of latex injectates.

Conclusions

The deep investing muscular fascia of the thigh appears to impede the spread of injectate between the SN and PFCN in a most unembalmed cadaver specimens. A US‐guided subgluteal PFCN blockade may be a feasible technique to complement an SN block when complete anesthesia of the posterior thigh is required.
Ultrasound‐Guided Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomies in 2 Difficult Airways
Authors: Valencia José A. , Romero David J. , Arango Enrique , Cubillos Javier E. , Mantilla Hugo A. , García‐Herreros Luis G.
Published: October 2017

Ultrasound has become a rapid, safe, and easy‐to‐use tool for anesthesiologists. It reduces complications, morbidity, and mortality, especially in patients with anatomic abnormalities in whom a traditional approach may be both difficult and risky. We report 2 cases of symptomatic patients with a difficult airway due to displacement of the trachea by a neck mass. Real‐time ultrasound imaging was performed for percutaneous dilatational tracheostomies, identifying important structures, without any complications.
Combined liver‐kidney perfusion enhances protective effects of normothermic perfusion on liver grafts from donation after cardiac death
Authors: He Xiaoshun , Ji Fei , Zhang Zhiheng , Tang Yunhua , Yang Lu , Huang Shanzhou , Li Wenwen , Su Qiao , Xiong Wei , Zhu Zebin , Wang Linhe , Lv Lei , Yao Jiyou , Zhang Linan , Zhang Longjuan , Guo Zhiyong
Published: October 2017

It has been shown that combined liver‐kidney normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) is able to better maintain the circuit's biochemical milieu. Nevertheless, whether the combined perfusion is superior to liver perfusion alone in protecting livers from donation after circulatory death (DCD) is unclear. We aimed to test the hypothesis and explored the mechanisms. Livers from 15 DCD pig donors were subjected to either static cold storage (group A), liver‐alone NMP (group B), or combined liver‐kidney NMP (group C). Livers were preserved for 6 hours and reperfused ex vivo for 2 hours to simulate transplantation or were transplanted in situ. During perfusion, group C showed an improved acid‐base and biochemical environment in the circuit over group B. After reperfusion, the architecture of the liver grafts was best preserved in group C, followed by group B, then group A, as shown by the histology and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick‐end labeling staining of both hepatocytes and biliary epithelium. Ki‐67 staining showed substantial hepatocyte proliferation and biliary epithelial regeneration after perfusion in group B and group C. Group C produced more bile in the reperfusion phase than those in group A and group B, with more physiological bile composition and less severe biliary epithelium injury. Von Willebrand factor–positive endothelial cells and E‐selectin expression decreased in both group B and group C. Combined liver‐kidney NMP not only produced more adenosine triphosphate, protected the nitric oxide signaling pathway, but also diminished oxidative stress (high mobility group box‐1 protein and 8‐hydroxy‐2‐deoxy guanosine levels) and inflammatory cytokine (IL6 and IL8) release when compared with liver‐alone NMP and CS. In addition, the 7‐day survival rate of liver transplant recipients was higher in group C than that in groups A and B. In conclusion, combined liver‐kidney NMP can better protect DCD livers from warm ischemia and reperfusion injury probably by maintaining the stability of the internal environment and by abolishing oxidative stress injury. Liver Transplantation 24 67–79 2018 AASLD.
Comparing Crystallization Kinetics between Polyamide 6 and Polyketone via Chip‐Calorimeter Measurement
Authors: He Yucheng , Luo Ruiqi , Li Zhaolei , Lv Ruihua , Zhou Dongshan , Lim Soonho , Ren Xiaoning , Gao Hongxu , Hu Wenbing
Published: October 2017

Polyamide 6 and aliphatic polyketone exhibit similar melting points and heats of fusion, which expose the kinetic effects of intermolecular interactions on their crystallization kinetics. The commercial chip‐calorimeter Flash DSC1 is employed to measure their crystallization rates in a broad temperature range. The results show that polyamide crystallizes faster than polyketone at high temperatures, but slower at low temperatures. The faster crystallization is attributed to a lower lateral‐surface free energy for crystal nucleation at high temperatures on account of the sheet‐like hydrogen bonding in polyamide crystals. The slower crystallization is attributed to the lower molecular mobility for crystal nucleation at low temperatures on account of the higher glass transition temperature of polyamide.
Polydopamine Particles Reinforced Poly(vinyl alcohol) Hydrogel with NIR Light Triggered Shape Memory and Self‐Healing Capability
Authors: Yang Li , Wang Zhanhua , Fei Guoxia , Xia Hesheng
Published: October 2017

This study focuses on developing a facile approach to prepare biocompatible poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composite hydrogels containing polydopamine particles (PDAPs) with ultrafast near‐infrared (NIR) light‐triggered shape memory and self‐healing capability. The PVA‐PDAPs composite hydrogels with excellent mechanical properties can be achieved after freezing/thawing treatment, and the formation of physically cross‐linked networks from the hydrogen bonding (H‐bonding) between PVA and PDAPs. Due to the excellent photothermal effect of polydopamine, the composited hydrogel can achieve rapid shape recovery and efficient self‐healing properties under NIR light exposure in a short time. With the excellent shape memory performance, good biocompatibility, and self‐healing property, this hydrogel should have great potential in biomedical fields such as tissue engineering, arthrodial cartilage, and artificial skin.
Monomer Protonation‐Dependent Surface Polymerization to Achieve One‐Step Grafting Cross‐Linked Poly(4‐Vinylpyridine) Onto Core–Shell Fe3O4@SiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Tian Kesong , Li Ruifei , Wang Haiyan , Chen Yan , Guo Wanchun , Wang Yaqi , Xu Zhaopeng
Published: October 2017

Functional polymer‐grafting silica nanoparticles hold great promise in diverse applications such as molecule recognition, drug delivery, and heterogeneous catalysis due to high density and uniform distribution of functional groups and their tunable spatial distance. However, conventional grafting methods from monomers mainly consist of one or more extra surface modification steps and a subsequent surface polymerization step. A monomer protonation‐dependent surface polymerization strategy is proposed to achieve one‐step uniform surface grafting of cross‐linked poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (P4VP) onto core–shell Fe3O4@SiO2 nanostructures. At an approximate pH, partially protonated 4VP sites in aqueous solution can be strongly adsorbed onto deprotonated silanol groups (SiO−) onto Fe3O4@SiO2 nanospheres to ensure prior polymerization of these protonated 4VP sites exclusively onto Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles and subsequent polymerization of other 4VP and divinylbenzene monomers harvested by these protonated 4VP monomers onto Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles, thereby achieving direct grafting of cross‐linked P4VP macromolecules onto Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles.
Conjugated Polymers Via Direct Arylation Polymerization in Continuous Flow: Minimizing the Cost and Batch‐to‐Batch Variations for High‐Throughput Energy Conversion
Authors: Gobalasingham Nemal S. , Carlé Jon E. , Krebs Frederik C. , Thompson Barry C. , Bundgaard Eva , Helgesen Martin
Published: October 2017

Continuous flow methods are utilized in conjunction with direct arylation polymerization (DArP) for the scaled synthesis of the roll‐to‐roll compatible polymer, poly[(2,5‐bis(2‐hexyldecyloxy)phenylene)‐alt‐(4,7‐di(thiophen‐2‐yl)‐benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole)] (PPDTBT). PPDTBT is based on simple, inexpensive, and scalable monomers using thienyl‐flanked benzothiadiazole as the acceptor, which is the first β‐unprotected substrate to be used in continuous flow via DArP, enabling critical evaluation of the suitability of this emerging synthetic method for minimizing defects and for the scaled synthesis of high‐performance materials. To demonstrate the usefulness of the method, DArP‐prepared PPDTBT via continuous flow synthesis is employed for the preparation of indium tin oxide (ITO)‐free and flexible roll‐coated solar cells to achieve a power conversion efficiency of 3.5% for 1 cm2 devices, which is comparable to the performance of PPDTBT polymerized through Stille cross coupling. These efforts demonstrate the distinct advantages of the continuous flow protocol with DArP avoiding use of toxic tin chemicals, reducing the associated costs of polymer upscaling, and minimizing batch‐to‐batch variations for high‐quality material.
When do investors reward acquisitions and divestitures? The contrasting implications of normative and behavioral economic theories
Authors: Golder Peter N. , Markovitch Dmitri G. , O'Brien Jonathan P.
Published: October 2017

We evaluate whether a contingency theory that combines a signaling hypothesis with behavioral economic theory can elucidate the discrepancy between positive expected returns to acquisitions and divestitures and the mixed‐to‐negative investor reactions observed in practice. We argue that, because of bounded rationality, uncertainty avoidance, and inertia, major organizational change is generally motivated by the detection of problems in an organization. Accordingly, although investors may view acquisitions and divestitures as positive corrective measures for low performers, such initiatives by high performers often signal problems that were heretofore unknown to the market. We contrast our results with predictions based on normative theories.
Contract duration and contractual learning: Evidence from franchising networks
Authors: Perdreau Frédéric , Chaudey Magali , Chanut Odile , Fadairo Muriel
Published: October 2017

Contract duration in franchising has generally been studied in frameworks where agents are assumed to have a high level of foresight. We complement existing studies by adopting a dynamic perspective that allows us to introduce a learning process in choice and adjustment of contract duration. On the basis of French panel data (1995–2003), collected from the yearbooks of the French Federation of Franchising, results of dynamic models are consistent with the existence of a learning process in the capacity to design appropriate contracts. Our study shows that certain factors, in particular too much franchising, may hinder the achievement of such a capability.
Patient experiences with care across various types of mental health care: Questionnaire development, measurement invariance, and patients' reports
Authors: Bruyneel Luk , Van Houdt Sabine , Coeckelberghs Ellen , Sermeus Walter , Tambuyzer Else , Cosemans Peter , Peeters Gert , Van den Broeck Kris , Weeghmans Ilse , Vanhaecht Kris
Published: October 2017

To describe the development, validation, and findings of a patient experience questionnaire across 7 types of residential and ambulatory mental health care services. Thirty‐five items were hypothesized to cover information, participation, therapeutic relationship, personalized care, organization and collaboration, safety, patient rights, outcomes of care, and discharge preparation and after‐care. Also included were 2 overall rating items (scoring and recommending the organization). This Dutch questionnaire was applied in 79 organizations in Belgium (N patients = 5,168). Exploratory structural equation modelling was conducted on a random split‐half sample to examine dimensionality. Confirmatory factor analysis and multiple group confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on the holdout sample to confirm dimensionality and assess measurement invariance across type of service and patient characteristics. Multilevel logistic regression models linking subscale top box scores to overall rating items were used to assess criterion validity. The hypothesized dimensionality was partly confirmed, and configural and scalar invariance were demonstrated across types of organizations and patient characteristics. Subscale scores were significantly associated with overall ratings. Process evaluation showed that participating organizations strongly support continued use of this questionnaire. This validated patient experience questionnaire supports comparison across organizations from different types of services to improve the quality of mental health care.
Maximum norm stability and error estimates for the evolving surface finite element method
Authors: Kovács Balázs , Power Guerra Christian Andreas
Published: October 2017

We show convergence in the natural and norm for a semidiscretization with linear finite elements of a linear parabolic partial differential equations on evolving surfaces. To prove this, we show error estimates for a Ritz map, error estimates for the material derivative of a Ritz map and a weak discrete maximum principle.
Numerical solution for high‐order linear complex differential equations with variable coefficients
Authors: Düşünceli Faruk , Çelik Ercan
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we have obtained the numerical solutions of complex differential equations with variable coefficients by using the Legendre Polynomials and we have performed it on two test problems. Then, we applied with different technical of error analysis to the test problems. When we compared exact solutions and numerical solutions of tables and graphs, we realized that our method is reliable, practical, and functional.
Challenges of post‐authorization safety studies: Lessons learned and results of a French study of fentanyl buccal tablet
Authors: Gavrielov‐Yusim Natalie , Bidollari Ilda , Kaplan Sigal , Bartov Netta
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Recruiting and retaining participants in real‐world studies that collect primary data are challenging. This article illustrates these challenges using a post‐authorization safety study (PASS) to assess adverse events (AEs) experienced with fentanyl buccal tablet (FBT) over 3 months of treatment.

Methods

This was an observational, prospective, multicenter study in France conducted over 1 year. The study employed primary data collection in FBT‐treated patients and their treating physicians via a site qualification questionnaire and patient log completed by physicians and a questionnaire and pain diary completed by patients. Strategies to increase participation included reminders, newsletters, frequent follow‐up telephone calls, and reducing the extent of data collected.

Results

Of the 1118 physicians contacted who returned the participation form or responded to a telephone call, only 128 expressed willingness to participate. Key reasons for non‐participation were lack of interest (69.7%) and FBT not being used in practice by the contacted physician (25.1%). Overall, 224 patients were screened by 31 physicians, and 97 were enrolled. Key reasons for patient non‐inclusion were unwillingness or inability to complete the patient AE diary or questionnaire (40.9% [52/127]) and patients' decision (33.9% [43/127]).

Conclusions

Despite efforts to increase participation, enrollment in this study was low. Recruitment and retention methods are limited in their capacity to optimally execute a primary data collection in a PASS. For a PASS to provide reliable and valid information on medication use, involvement from health care agencies, regulators, and pharmaceutical companies is needed to establish their importance, drive study participation, and reduce patient withdrawal.
Quantification of solvent water and hydration dynamic of thermo‐sensitive microgel by dielectric spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Man , Su Wenjuan , Zhao Kongshuang
Published: October 2017

The hydration of natural or synthetic macromolecules is of fundamental importance in our understanding of their structure and stability. Quantification of hydration water can promote the understanding to many complex biological mechanisms such as protein folding, as well as the dynamics and conformation of polymers. An approach to quantification of solvent water was developed by dielectric spectroscopy. Dielectric behaviors of PNIPAM microgels with different crosslink density distribution were measured in the range of 0.5–40 GHz and 15–50. An obvious relaxation process caused by free and bound water was found. Dielectric parameters of free and bound water show that the crosslink density distribution does not affect the volume phase transition temperature of microgels, but significantly influence the orientation dynamics of the solvent water. We found that the three kinds of microgel can be distinguished by the dielectric parameters of the bound water. In addition, the number of water in and outside microgel during the volume phase transition process was quantitatively calculated for the first time. This study provides the possibility for the quantification of water in complex biological process. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 1859–1864
Surface modification of polysulfone hollow fiber membrane for extracorporeal membrane oxygenator using low‐temperature plasma treatment
Authors: Zheng Zhi , Wang Weiping , Huang Xin , Fan Wenling , Li Lei
Published: October 2017

The surface of polysulfone (PSF) hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) was modified to improve the hemocompatibility of pristine PSF membrane for use in extracorporeal membrane oxygenators using low‐temperature plasma treatment. Acrylic acid (AA) with heparin, 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC), and collagen were grafted on the PSF surface to prepare PSF‐AA‐Hep, PSF‐MPC, and PSF‐Col membranes, respectively. The surface‐modified membranes were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV‐visible spectrophotometry (UVS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), critical water permeability pressure (CWPP), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Protein adsorption and platelet adhesion experiments showed that the hemocompatibility of surface‐modified PSF membranes was significantly improved. Additionally, O2 and CO2 gas permeation experiments indicated that the excellent gas transmission properties of PSF membrane had been preserved. Thus, the modified membrane materials can meet the requirement for commercial respiratory assist devices.
Characterization of UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase genes and their possible roles in multi‐insecticide resistance in Plutella xylostella (L.)
Authors: Li Xiuxia , Shi Haiyan , Gao Xiwu , Liang Pei
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Uridine diphosphate‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs), as multifunctional detoxification enzymes, play important roles in the biotransformation of various compounds. However, their roles in insecticide resistance are still unclear. This study presents a genome‐wide identification of the UGTs in diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), a notorious insect pest of cruciferous crops worldwide. The possible roles of these UGTs in insecticide resistance were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 21 putative UGTs in P. xylostella were identified. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based analyses showed that all the UGT genes were expressed in all tested developmental stages and tissues. Bioassay results indicated that a field‐collected population (BL) was resistant to 9 of 10 commonly used insecticides, and 10 of 21 UGT mRNAs were upregulated in the BL population. Exposure to the LC50 of each insecticide affected the expression of most UGT genes. Among these, the expression levels of UGT40V1, UGT45B1 and UGT33AA4 were induced by more than five insecticides, whereas indoxacarb and metaflumizone significantly repressed the expression of most UGT genes.

CONCLUSION

UGTs may play important roles in the metabolism of commonly used insecticides in P. xylostella. These findings provide valuable information for further research on the physiological and toxicological functions of specific UGT genes in P. xylostella. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Natural Compound Licochalcone B Induced Extrinsic and Intrinsic Apoptosis in Human Skin Melanoma (A375) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (A431) Cells
Authors: Kang Tae‐Ho , Yoon Goo , Kang In‐A , Oh Ha‐Na , Chae Jung‐Il , Shim Jung‐Hyun
Published: October 2017

Licochalcone B (Lico B), which is normally isolated from the roots of Glycyrrhiza inflata (Chinese Licorice), generally classified into organic compounds including retrochalcones. Potential pharmacological properties of Lico B include anti‐inflammatory, anti‐bacterial, anti‐oxidant, and anti‐cancer activities. However, its biological effects on melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are unknown. Based on these known facts, this study investigated the role of Lico B in apoptosis, through the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways and additional regulation of specificity protein 1 in human skin cancer cell lines. Annexin V/7‐aminoactinomycin D staining, western blot analysis, mitochondrial membrane potential assay, and an anchorage‐independent cell transformation assay demonstrated that Lico B treatment of human melanoma and SCC cells significantly inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptotic cell death. More specifically, Lico B induced apoptosis through the regulation of specificity protein 1 and apoptosis‐related proteins including CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein homologous protein, death receptors, and poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase. These results indicate that Lico B has apoptotic effect on A375 and A431 skin cancer cells, suggesting the potential value of Lico B for the treatment of human melanoma and SCC. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of Rosa (L. Rosa canina) on the incidence of urinary tract infection in the puerperium: A randomized placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Seifi Mahdieh , Abbasalizadeh Shamsi , Mohammad‐Alizadeh‐Charandabi Sakineh , Khodaie Laleh , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: October 2017

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any area of the urinary tract which is characterized by a positive urine culture (U/C). The risk of UTI following cesarean section (CS) increases due to procedures such as catheterization. In vitro studies have demonstrated the effect of Rosa canina fruit in preventing Escherichia coli growth. This study was conducted to determine the effect of R. canina fruit in preventing the incidence of UTI in women following CS. This triple‐blind randomized clinical trial was conducted in 2016 on 400 women following CS with negative U/C in Alzahra and Taleghani educational hospitals in the city of Tabriz‐Iran. Participants were assigned into two groups of 200 women using block randomization. Each group received a twice daily dose of 500 mg capsules containing R. canina or placebo from the second day after CS for 20 days. Women were assessed by U/C on the 7th–10th and 20th days following CS. UTI was significantly lower in the intervention group compared with the control in the follow‐ups conducted on the 7th–10th days (odds ratio = 0.22; confidence interval 95% [0.07, 0.67]; p = .006) and 20th day (odds ratio = 0.32; confidence interval 95% [0.14, 0.75]; p = .008). But the incidence of cystitis in the two groups was not statistically significant (p > .05). R. canina fruit capsules were able to reduce the incidence of UTI after CS. Thus, it is likely that administration of this medication can promote maternal health following CS.
Identification of gelsemine metabolites in rat liver S9 by high‐performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Yang Kun , Huang Ya‐Jun , Xiao Sa , Liu Yan‐Chun , Sun Zhi‐Liang , Liu Yi‐Song , Tang Qi , Liu Zhao‐Ying
Published: October 2017

Rationale

Gelsemine has been extensively studied because of its anti‐tumor, immunomodulatory, insecticidal itching and other significant effects. However, limited information on the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of gelsemine has been reported. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the in vitro metabolism of gelsemine in rat liver S9 by using rapid and accurate high‐performance liquid chromatography/ quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (HPLC/QqTOF‐MS).

Methods

The incubation mixture was processed with 15% trichloroacetic acid. Multiple scans of gelsemine metabolites and accurate mass measurements were automatically performed simultaneously through data‐dependent acquisition in only 30 min. The structural elucidations of these metabolites were performed by comparing their changes in accurate molecular masses and product ions with those of the parent drug.

Results

Five metabolites of gelsemine were identified in rat liver S9. Of these, four metabolites of gelsemine were identified for the first time. The present results showed that the metabolic pathways of gelsemine are oxidation, demethylation, and dehydrogenation in rat liver S9.

Conclusions

In this study, metabolites of gelsemine in liver S9 were identified and elucidated firstly using the HPLC/QqTOF‐MS method. The proposed metabolic pathways of gelsemine in liver S9 will provide a basis for further studies of the in vivo metabolism of gelsemine in animals and humans.
The magnitude and significance of sediment oxygen demand in gravel spawning beds for the incubation of salmonid embryos
Authors: Sear D. A. , Pattison I. , Collins A. L. , Smallman D. J. , Jones J. I. , Naden P. S.
Published: October 2017

Globally, salmon populations are under pressure and in those where numbers are severely depleted, density independent factors such as the accumulation of fine sediment and subsequent mortality of incubating embryos are critical factors in their conservation. Although progress has been made in identifying the processes by which fine sediment can lead to embryo mortality, this has focussed on the physical blockage of gravel pores. This paper presents new knowledge on the role of sediment‐associated organic matter in controlling the supply of dissolved oxygen to incubating salmon embryos within gravel river beds. We report a new approach to the measurement of sediment oxygen demand (SOD) from interstitial sediments accumulated within salmon redds and demonstrate this across a range of salmon river types. The effects of varying SOD on dissolved oxygen supply to incubating salmon embryos are quantified for the first time, using the physically based Sediment Intrusion and Dissolved Oxygen (SIDO‐UK) model. The results reveal the importance of the mass of accumulating sediment and sediment consumption rates (sediment oxygen consumption [SOC]), which constitute the overall SOD over time for a particular sediment sample. Higher SOC result in reductions in dissolved oxygen that are deleterious to salmonids; however, these are subordinate to the effects of sediment mass. Larger quantities of sediment accumulating within the redd not only create a higher SOD but also physically block the pores within the gravels, leading to a more drastic decline in oxygen supply through the combined effects of reduced seepage velocity and dissolved oxygen concentration. We seek to generalize the results by exploring the influence of catchment characteristics on field measures of SOD and SOC. This work makes a significant and novel contribution to improving our fundamental understanding of hyporheic processes within salmonid spawning gravels whilst providing resource managers with evidence of the deleterious effects of sediment‐associated organic matter on salmon recruitment.
A review of tensor‐based methods and their application to hospital care data
Authors: Giordani Paolo , Kiers Henk A.L.
Published: October 2017

In many situations, a researcher is interested in the analysis of the scores of a set of observation units on a set of variables. However, in medicine, it is very frequent that the information is replicated at different occasions. The occasions can be time‐varying or refer to different conditions. In such cases, the data can be stored in a 3‐way array or tensor. The Candecomp/Parafac and Tucker3 methods represent the most common methods for analyzing 3‐way tensors. In this work, a review of these methods is provided, and then this class of methods is applied to a 3‐way data set concerning hospital care data for a hospital in Rome (Italy) during 15 years distinguished in 3 groups of consecutive years (1892–1896, 1940–1944, 1968–1972). The analysis reveals some peculiar aspects about the use of health services and its evolution along the time.