bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prooxidative Effects of Ambient Pollutant Chemicals Are Inhibited by HDL
Authors: Yin Fen , Ramanathan Gajalakshmi , Zhang Min , Araujo Jesus A.
Published: February 2013

Exposure to air pollution leads to adverse pulmonary and systemic vascular effects. High levels of plasma high‐density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol reduce cardiovascular risk. We explored whether HDL could protect against the prooxidative effects of an organic extract of diesel exhaust particles (DEP) in vascular cells. We used a cell‐free fluorescent assay to evaluate DEP oxidation by air, estimated by the degree of dichlorofluorescein (DCF) fluorescence and tested the ability of HDL to inhibit it. We also evaluated DEP prooxidative effects in bovine aortic endothelial cells and RAW264.7 macrophages by DCF fluorescence. DEP oxidation and prooxidative cellular effects occurred in concentration‐ and time‐dependent manners. Normal HDL inhibited DEP oxidation and prooxidative cellular effects, whereas dysfunctional HDL failed to inhibit DEP oxidation and instead, it promoted further oxidation. In conclusion, DEP prooxidative effects in endothelial cells and macrophages are inhibited by normal HDL. Therefore, HDL may protect against air pollution mediated adverse vascular effects. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J BiochemMol Toxicol 27:172‐183, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21475
RGD‐based PET tracers for imaging receptor integrin αvβ3 expression
Authors: Cai Hancheng , Conti Peter S
Published: February 2013

Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of receptor integrin αvβ3 expression may play a key role in the early detection of cancer and cardiovascular diseases, monitoring disease progression, evaluating therapeutic response, and aiding anti‐angiogenic drugs discovery and development. The last decade has seen the development of new PET tracers for in vivo imaging of integrin αvβ3 expression along with advances in PET chemistry. In this review, we will focus on the radiochemistry development of PET tracers based on arginine–glycine–aspartic acid (RGD) peptide, present an overview of general strategies for preparing RGD‐based PET tracers, and review the recent advances in preparations of 18F‐labeled, 64Cu‐labeled, and 68Ga‐labeled RGD tracers, RGD‐based PET multivalent probes, and RGD‐based PET multimodality probes for imaging receptor integrin αvβ3 expression.
Synthesis of C‐13‐labeled atrazine
Authors: Chen Shuo , Lin Dejie , Jiang Zhifu , Zhao Jian , Gao Beibei , Mei Xiangdong , Ning Jun , She Dongmei
Published: February 2013

Atrazine is a long‐lasting herbicide that has been shown to affect hormone levels in amphibians. Using the C‐13 labeled atrazine to detect its residue is effective and essential. This study presents three steps for the synthesis of [13C3]atrazine, which starts from [13C]urea, and results in the incorporation of C‐13 atoms at the 1, 3 and 5 positions of the S‐triazine ring of atrazine. The method prepares the product in an overall yield of 57.6% and chemical purity of 98.6%, for use as an internal standard. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of ximelagatran, melagatran, hydroxymelagatran, and ethylmelagatran in H‐3 labeled form
Authors: Simonsson Roger , Stenhagen Gunnar , Ericsson Cecilia , Elmore Charles S.
Published: February 2013

In support of a study designed to better understand the liver toxicity of ximelagatran, ximelagatran, and melagatran, hydroxymelagatran and ethylmelagatran were prepared in tritium labeled form. Incorporation of tritium was achieved by hydrogen isotope exchange using Crabtree's catalyst and later with N‐heterocyclic containing Ir catalyst. The tritiated product was then converted into the four target compounds to afford them in high purity and specific activity.
Possibilities for human skin characterization based on strongly reduced Raman spectroscopic information
Authors: Baclig A. C. , Bakker Schut T. C. , O'Regan G. M. , Irvine A. D. , McLean W. H. I. , Puppels G. J. , Caspers P. J.
Published: February 2013

Loss‐of‐function mutations in the gene coding for filaggrin are the single most important risk factor for development of atopic dermatitis and associated allergic rhinitis and asthma. Filaggrin is enzymatically degraded to natural moisturizing factor (NMF) in the stratum corneum (SC). In vivo Raman spectra of human skin can be used to quantify the NMF concentration in SC and thereby identify carriers of a loss‐of‐function mutation in the gene coding for filaggrin, which results in decreased NMF content. Here, we demonstrate that strongly reduced Raman spectral information is sufficient to make this differentiation. This is an important step towards development of a dedicated diagnostic device of reduced complexity, size and cost as compared to current state‐of‐the‐art Raman equipment. A genetic algorithm was used to select the spectral regions needed to classify skin based on normal or reduced NMF content in SC. Using the NMF content based on full spectral information as gold standard, only four Raman regions were required to create a linear discriminant analysis model that can differentiate between skin with low NMF and skin with normal NMF with a prediction accuracy of 93 %. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Revealing the secondary structural changes of amyloid β peptide by probing the spectral fingerprint characters
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Yuanmin , Lu H. Peter
Published: February 2013

The misfolding and aggregation of amyloid β (1‐42) peptide is crucial for a mechanical understanding of the formation of Alzheimer's disease. To investigate the detailed aggregation pathway and mechanism, it is important to identify the secondary structures of different aggregation forms. Here, we report probing different amyloid β aggregations in real time by using correlated approaches such as shell‐isolated surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy, thioflavin T fluorescence assay, and atomic force microscopy imaging. Our experimental results of Raman shifts have been further demonstrated by theoretical calculation, which indicates that the Raman spectral fingerprint changes are originated from the amyloid β secondary structure changes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian meta‐analysis of coefficient alpha
Authors: Brannick Michael T. , Zhang Nanhua
Published: February 2013

The current paper describes and illustrates a Bayesian approach to the meta‐analysis of coefficient alpha. Alpha is the most commonly used estimate of the reliability or consistency (freedom from measurement error) for educational and psychological measures. The conventional approach to meta‐analysis uses inverse variance weights to combine information from independent studies to provide an overall estimate. The Bayesian approach provides similar estimates to the conventional approach if a diffuse prior is used. However, the Bayesian approach also provides ‘shrunken’ local estimates of reliability in each context. The amount of shrinkage depends upon both the variability in the underlying populations and the sampling variance of the local estimates. Advantages of the approach are the estimation of individual studies adjusted for sampling error and the application of meta‐analytic results to new local studies in which the local study ‘borrows strength’ from the meta‐analysis. The ability to borrow strength for the new local studies is particularly useful in applied work in which the estimate of the local parameter is of primary interest. The approach is illustrated by the analysis of studies of the reliability of the General Ethnicity Questionnaire – Abridged, a measure of identification with the culture of one's heritage and the culture of one's host country. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of Multiple Interpersonal Traumas on Psychological Maladjustment of Sexually Abused Children in Korea
Authors: Choi Ji Young , Oh Kyung Ja
Published: February 2013

The purpose of the present study was to explore the effects of multiple interpersonal traumas on psychiatric diagnosis and behavior problems of sexually abused children in Korea. With 495 children (ages 4–13 years) referred to a public counseling center for sexual abuse in Korea, we found significant differences in the rate of psychiatric diagnoses (r = .23) and severity of behavioral problems (internalizing d = 0.49, externalizing d = 0.40, total d = 0.52) between children who were victims of sexual abuse only (n = 362) and youth who were victims of interpersonal trauma experiences in addition to sexual abuse (n = 133). The effects of multiple interpersonal trauma experiences on single versus multiple diagnoses remained significant in the logistic regression analysis where demographic variables, family environmental factors, sexual abuse characteristics, and postincident factors were considered together, odds ratio (OR) = 0.44, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [0.25, 0.77], p < .01. Similarly, multiple regression analyses revealed a significant effect of multiple interpersonal trauma experiences on severity of behavioral problems above and beyond all aforementioned variables (internalizing β =.12, p = .019, externalizing β = .11, p = .036, total β = .14, p =.008). The results suggested that children with multiple interpersonal traumas are clearly at a greater risk for negative consequences following sexual abuse.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognostic Factors of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Authors: Choi Yunsuk , Kim Sung‐Bae , Yoon Dok Hyun , Kim Ji Youn , Lee Sang‐wook , Cho Kyung‐Ja
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

This study was intended to evaluate prognostic factors and the role of postoperative radiotherapy (RT) in patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the head and neck (ACCHN).

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Eighty‐eight patients with ACCHN who underwent curative intent surgery with or without RT between 1991 and 2009 at a single institute were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Patients with ACC of the sinonasal area (P=.005) and those with diabetes mellitus (DM; P=.027) showed a significantly higher risk of local recurrence. Age (<40 or >60 years, P=.028) and tumor stage III or IV (P=.022) were significant adverse factors predicting distant metastasis. High‐grade histology (P=.014) and DM (P=.027) were independently associated with shorter disease‐free survival (DFS). In addition, postoperative RT (≥59 Gy) significantly enhanced local control (P=.025) and DFS (P=.001) in both univariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusions

Age, DM, tumor site, histologic grade, and stage were independently significant prognostic factors for ACCHN. In addition, an adequate dose of postoperative radiotherapy can improve local control and DFS of patients with ACCHN.

Level of Evidence

2b.
Evaluating Endoscopic and Endoscopic‐Assisted Access to the Infratemporal Fossa
Authors: Devaiah Anand K. , Reiersen David , Hoagland Todd
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Endoscopic infratemporal fossa (ITF) surgery is a growing clinical interest. This study presents a method of analyzing approach access and visualization, identifies relevant anatomy in an endoscopic approach to the ITF, and compares endoscopic medial maxillectomy (MMA) and endoscopic‐assisted sublabial transmaxillary (SLT) approaches to the ITF as a model for this paradigm.

Study Design

Human cadaver anatomic study.

Methods

Five human cadaver heads (10 ITF dissections) were used. An SLT and MMA were performed on each side. For endoscopic dissections of the ITF, 0° and 30° endoscopes were used. Key landmarks were the posterior maxillary sinus wall, temporomandibular joint, pterygoid plates, foramen spinosum, and foramen ovale. Open dissection was used to confirm ITF landmarks. A novel measurement method using angles of approach and visualization was used to compare approaches.

Results

Visualization and mobility in SLT and MMA were significantly different. The lateral extent and greatest average depth for dissection was 7.9 cm in MMA and 6.1 cm for SLT. The average angle of mobility in approach was 36.3° for MMA and 57.9° for SLT. Average visualization was 40.2° for MMA and 126.5° for SLT. Despite these differences, both surgical approaches allowed access and visualization to all targeted landmarks.

Conclusions

This evaluation paradigm provides useful data in evaluating an endoscopic or endoscopic‐assisted approach to the ITF. Using this paradigm, the SLT and MMA were analyzed. Each provided adequate access to the ITF, but visualization and maneuverability were better in SLT. Laryngoscope, 2013
Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Monroe Marcus M. , McLean Max , Sautter Nathan , Wax Mark K. , Andersen Peter E. , Smith Timothy L. , Gross Neil D.
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Document a 15‐year experience with 29 cases of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFR) and evaluate factors predictive of disease clearance and overall survival.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Methods

Patients were identified by review of department billing records between 1995 and 2010. Medical records were reviewed for patient demographics, disease characteristics, clinical course including surgical and medical therapy, treatment outcomes, and long‐term survival.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients with AIFR were identified. Causes of immunosuppression included hematologic malignancy (n=16), diabetes (n=12), medication (n=10), and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (n=1), with 10 patients having multiple causes of immunosuppression. Facial pain, swelling and orbital symptoms were the most common presenting symptoms. Fungal organisms included Mucor (n=18) and Aspergillus (n=10) species, with one patient infected with both. Disease‐specific survival (DSS) from AIFR was 57%. Intracranial (P=.01) and ethmoid sinus (P=.05) involvement were significantly linked with short‐term disease‐related mortality. Overall survival (OS) at 6 months was 18%. For OS, intracranial involvement (hazard ratio [HR], 4.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.51–13.22) and cranial neuropathy at presentation (HR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.3–8.2) were significantly associated with shortened survival. Of the five patients surviving >6 months, two developed long‐term major sinonasal complications.

Conclusions

DSS and OS remain low for patients with AIFR. Extensive surgical resection in patients with these poor prognostic signs should be considered carefully in light of their poor survival. Long‐term survivors are at significant risk of sinonasal complications and should be followed closely.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 2012
Multidimensional Voice Outcomes After Type I Gore‐Tex Thyroplasty in Patients With Nonparalytic Glottic Incompetence
Authors: Shah Rupali N. , Deal Allison M. , Buckmire Robert A.
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Nonparalytic glottic incompetence (GI) encompasses a variety of laryngeal pathologies, and vocal outcome data for this group is limited. We report a subgroup analysis of validated, subjective, and perceptual voice outcome measures: voice‐related quality of life (VRQOL), Glottal Function Index (GFI), and GRBAS (grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain), after type I Gore‐Tex thyroplasty (GTP) in patients with vocal fold paresis (VFP), hypomobility, scar, and atrophy.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Forty‐eight patients with nonparalytic GI treated with GTP were reviewed. Patients were grouped according to primary diagnosis: VFP (n=12), hypomobility (n=20), scar (n=7), and atrophy (n=9). Voice outcome measures (VRQOL, GFI, and GRBAS) obtained during the initial evaluation and the most recent follow‐up were collected and analyzed.

Results

The median change in VRQOL was significant for each subgroup (all P<.03). Hypomobility and VFP patients demonstrated significantly improved GFI scores postoperatively (P=.0002 and .008, respectively); atrophy and scar groups did not. All groups, with the exception of scar patients (P=.13), showed significant improvement in perceptual scores. Increases in VRQOL moderately correlated with decreases in GFI (rho=−0.52).

Conclusions

Regardless of etiology, patients with nonparalytic GI demonstrated improved subjective and perceptual measures following GTP. Although showing trends toward improvement, vocal fold scar patients performed worse than all other subgroups across all three voice outcome measures.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 2013
Clinical characteristics of patients with narrow bony cochlear nerve canal
Authors: Cho Sung‐Woo , Kang Seong Il , Park Sung Joon , Kim Ah Reum , Koo Ja Won , Kim Chong Sun , Lee Jun Ho , Chang Sun O , Oh Seung‐Ha , Choi Byung Yoon
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate whether there is a genetic contribution to the development of narrow bony cochlear nerve canal and analyze the differences between unilateral and bilateral narrow bony cochlear nerve canal.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with unilateral (n=44) or bilateral (n=13) sensorineural hearing loss with narrow bony cochlear nerve canals from October 2004 to July 2011 were evaluated. The segregation ratio of hearing loss among siblings of probands was calculated. The differences in segregation ratio and other clinical characteristics were also compared.

Results

The segregation ratio of hearing loss in siblings of patients with unilateral narrow bony cochlear nerve canal was close to zero, whereas the ratio in siblings of patients with bilateral canals was 20%. Internal auditory canal narrowing was significantly more frequently combined in unilateral than bilateral narrow bony cochlear nerve canal cases. Cochlear nerve deficiency based on magnetic resonance imaging was found in 63.6% of bilateral narrow bony cochlear nerve canal cases. Milder hearing loss was exclusively detected in bilateral cases.

Conclusions

Narrow bony cochlear nerve canal is not likely to have a simple Mendelian inheritance pattern, especially in unilateral cases. The contribution of a Mendelian genetic etiology to bilateral narrow bony cochlear nerve canals remains elusive. More frequent coexistence of internal auditory canal narrowing among unilateral narrow bony cochlear nerve canal cases suggests that bilateral narrow bony cochlear nerve canals are not just a duplicate of the unilateral narrow bony cochlear nerve canal.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:1996–2000, 2013
Comparison of antiallergic effects of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine in a murine model of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Kim Boo‐Young , Shin Ji‐Hyeon , Park Hyang Rim , Kim Sung Won , Kim Soo Whan
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Pneumococcal vaccines have been widely used, and Streptococcus pneumoniae has been suggested to be an effective therapeutic agent in allergic disease.

Objectives

The present study was performed to evaluate the effects of pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PV) and pneumococcal protein conjugate vaccine (PCV), and to examine differences between the vaccines in a murine model of allergic rhinitis.

Study Design

In vivo study using an animal model.

Setting

Catholic Research Institutes of Medical Science.

Methods

Allergic rhinitis was induced in 40 BALB/c mice by intraperitoneal sensitization and intranasal challenge with Dermatophagoides farinae (Derf). The animals were divided into four groups: control, Derf, PV, and PCV. Interferon‐γ, interleukin‐13, and interleukin‐10 levels in nasal lavage fluid and Derf‐specific immunoglobulin E levels in serum were measured. The levels of T‐bet, GATA‐3, and Foxp3 mRNA expression in splenic mononuclear cells were determined. The number of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in splenic mononuclear cells was compared between groups by flow cytometry.

Results

Allergic symptom scores, T‐bet and GATA‐3 mRNA levels, serum Derf‐specific immunoglobulin E levels, and tissue eosinophil counts were lower in the PV and PCV groups than the Derf group (P < 0.05). The regulatory T (Treg) cell indicators, Foxp3 mRNA, and percentages of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells were increased in the PV and PCV groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Both PV and PCV suppressed the allergen‐specific T helper 2 response and induced regulatory T cells in a murine model of allergic rhinitis. However, PV and PCV may activate Treg cells via different mechanisms.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2371–2377, 2013
Polymers for the Cell‐Specific Immobilisation of Megakaryocytic Cell Lines
Authors: Hansen Anne , Corless Samuel , Cleland Alexander , Petrik Juraj , Gilbert Nick , Bradley Mark
Published: February 2013

Primary human megakaryocytes, the precursor cells of platelets, are difficult to collect and cultivate. Polymers that enrich these cells without affecting their regulation or function are of interest for basic research as well as for cord blood transplantation purposes since co‐transplantation of enriched megakaryocyte concentrates increase the success of stem cell therapy. Herein, polymer microarrays were used for the discovery of substrates for MEG‐01 cells, with five polymers identified which selectively bound cells of the megakaryocytic lineage. Flow cytometry and miRNA profiling revealed that immobilisation had only a minor effect on the cellular maturation status, making the identified substrates potential candidates for concentrating megakaryocytes from patients prior to transplantation.

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Bilateral substantia nigra and pyramidal tract changes following experimental intracerebral hemorrhage: an MR diffusion tensor imaging study
Authors: Fan Shu‐Juan , Lee Frank Y. , Cheung Matthew M. , Ding Abby Y. , Yang Jian , Ma Samantha J. , Khong Pek‐Lan , Wu Ed X.
Published: February 2013

The amelioration of secondary neurological damage is among the most important therapeutic goals for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Secondary injury of the ipsilateral substantia nigra (SN) and pyramidal tract (PY) is common after cerebral stroke. Such injury has been characterized previously by anatomical or diffusion MRI, but not in a comprehensive manner, and the knowledge regarding the contralateral changes is relatively poor. This study examined longitudinally both contralateral and ipsilateral SN and PY changes following experimental ICH with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and histology. ICH was induced in 14 Sprague‐Dawley rats by the infusion of collagenase into the right striatum. Four‐shot, spin‐echo, echo‐planar DTI was performed at 7 T with a b value of 1000 s/mm2 and 30 diffusion gradient directions at 3.5 h and days 1, 3, 7, 14, 42 and 120 after ICH. Fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (λ//) and radial diffusivity (λ┴) were measured in SN and PY accordingly. Two to three rats were sacrificed at days 3, 7, 42 and 120 for histology. The contralateral SN showed an increase in λ// with perivascular enlargement during the first 3 days after ICH. The ipsilateral SN showed increases in FA, λ//, λ┴ and MD at day 1, dramatic decreases at day 3 with neuronal degeneration and neuropil vacuolation, and subsequent gradual normalization. The contralateral PY showed diffusivity decreases at day 1. The ipsilateral PY showed early decreases and then late increases in MD and λ┴, and continuously decreasing FA and λ// with progressive axonal loss and demyelination. In summary, DTI revealed early bilateral changes in SN and PY following ICH. The evolution of the ipsilateral parameters correlated with the histological findings. In the ipsilateral PY, λ// and λ┴ changes indicated evolving and complex pathological processes underlying the monotonic FA decrease. These results support the use of quantitative multiparametric DTI for the evaluation of SN and PY injuries in clinical and preclinical investigations of ICH. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterisation of mobile lipid resonances in tissue biopsies from patients with cervical cancer and correlation with cytoplasmic lipid droplets
Authors: Zietkowski D. , deSouza N. M. , Davidson R. L. , Payne G. S.
Published: February 2013

The aims of this study were to characterise the major saturated and unsaturated lipid peaks in histologically normal cervical epithelium and stroma, dysplastic epithelium (low‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, CIN) and cancer‐containing tissue samples from patients with cervical cancer using diffusion‐weighted 1H high‐resolution magic angle spinning MRS, to determine whether mobile lipid resonances (MLRs) distinguish tissue types and to test for a correlation between MLRs and the number of cytoplasmic lipid droplets. Diffusion‐weighted spectra of tissue biopsies were acquired using a stimulated echo sequence with bipolar gradients. Major saturated and unsaturated MLRs were identified and multivariate analysis of peak combinations was used to determine the best separation between tissue classes. Lipid droplets were visualised with Nile red staining and fluorescence microscopy. Correlations of saturated lipid resonances (0.9 and 1.3 ppm), polyunsaturated resonances (2.8 ppm), triglycerides (4.3 ppm) and unsaturated resonances (5.3 ppm) with average droplet number (per image) were investigated using a Spearman rank test. A large heterogeneity in lipid content among samples was observed, resulting in no significant differences in MLR intensities of individual peaks between the three tissue classes. Linear discriminant analysis separated ‘no cancer’ from ‘cancer’ based on the intensities at 0.9, 1.3, 2.2 and 2.8 ppm [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.939, p < 0.001], ‘low‐grade CIN’ from ‘cancer’ based on the intensities at 0.9, 4.1, 4.3 and 5.3 ppm (AUC = 0.987, p < 0.001) and ‘no cancer’ from ‘low‐grade CIN’ based on intensities at 0.9, 2.2 and 4.3 ppm (AUC = 0.984, p < 0.001). The distribution of cytoplasmic lipid droplets was nonuniform and was not related to the presence of epithelial or stromal components. On average, there were more droplets visible in low‐grade CIN and cancer‐containing tissues. Significant correlations between MLR peaks and lipid droplet number were seen for 0.9 (p = 0.002), 1.3 (p = 0.003) and 2.8 ppm (p = 0.018). MLR combinations indicative of average lipid structure efficiently separated tissue classes. Increased lipid resonances correlated with increased numbers of cytoplasmic lipid droplets. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Free fatty acid flux in African‐American and caucasian adults—effect of sex and race
Authors: Nielsen S⊘ren , Sumner Anne E. , Miller Bernard V. , Turkova Hana , Klein Samuel , Jensen Michael D.
Published: February 2013

Objective

Obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes disproportionately affect African‐American (AA) women. Abnormal adipose tissue free fatty acid (FFA) release is associated with these conditions. Resting energy expenditure (REE) and sex predict FFA release in Caucasians, but whether this is true in AA is unknown. The sex‐specific relationships between FFA release, REE, and race was compared.

Design and Methods

100 adults (47% AA, 50% male, age 32 ± 8 years [mean ± SD]) from three different centers underwent duplicate measures of FFA release ([U‐13C] palmitate) and REE (indirect calorimetry). Body composition was determined by DXA and abdominal imaging.

Results

AA participants had lower REE, but similar FFA concentrations and flux compared with Caucasian participants. The significant predictors of palmitate release were REE, sex, and race. REE and FFA flux were correlated in both sexes and both races. In a multiple linear regression analysis with palmitate flux as the dependent variable and REE, sex, race, total fat mass, fat‐free mass, and insulin as independent variables, REE was the only independent predictor of FFA release in men. Both REE and race predicted palmitate flux in women.

Conclusions

FFA flux is related to REE, but the relationship differs in AA and Caucasian women.
Interactions of allelic variance of PNPLA3 with nongenetic factors in predicting nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and nonhepatic complications of severe obesity
Authors: Guichelaar M.M.J. , Gawrieh S. , Olivier M. , Viker K. , Krishnan A. , Sanderson S. , Malinchoc M. , Watt K.D. , Swain J.M. , Sarr M. , Charlton M.R.
Published: February 2013

Objective: Allelic variation (rs738409C→G) in adiponutrin (patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing protein 3, PNPLA3) has been associated with hepatic steatosis and liver fibrosis. The physiologic impact of the PNPLA3 G allele may be exacerbated in patients with severe obesity. In this study, we investigated the interactions of PNPLA3 rs738409 with a broad panel of metabolic and histologic characteristics of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in patients with medically complicated obesity.

Design and Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing bariatric surgery were selected for a prospective study. They underwent extensive laboratory and histologic (liver biopsy) assessment, as well as evaluation of rs738409 polymorphism by TaqMan assay.

Results: Only 12 (8.3%) of the 144 patients had normal liver histology, with 72 (50%) NASH, of whom 15 (10.4% of total patients) had fibrosis stage 2‐3. PNPLA3 GG genotype correlated positively (P < 0.05) with serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), asparate aminotransferase (AST), glucose, fibrinogen, and insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus, homeostasis model assessment—insulin resistance, and presence of NASH. Multivariate analysis indicated that PNPLA3 rs738409 G versus C allele remained an (independent) risk factor for NASH, in addition to CK‐18 >145 IU/l, glucose >100 mg/dl, and C‐reactive protein (CRP) >0.8 mg/dl. The probability of NASH increased from 9% (no risk factor) to 82% if all four risk factors were present.

Conclusions: In this cohort of patients with medically complicated obesity, PNPLA3 rs738409 G allelic expression is associated with hepatic (NASH) and nonhepatic complications of obesity, such as insulin resistance. These novel findings may be related to a greater impact of PNPLA3 variant in magnitude and scope in patients with severe obesity than in less obese populations. Further studies are needed to characterize the nature of these associations.
Dynamic poverty experiences and development of overweight in a prospective cohort of US children aged 4‐14 years
Authors: Margerison‐Zilko Clarie E. , Cubbin C.
Published: February 2013

Objective

To examine the associations between poverty dynamics and the long‐term risk of developing overweight or obesity.

Design and Methods

Our data are a representative sample of US children from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 Child and Young Adult Survey (1986‐2008). We used survival analysis to compare risk of developing overweight or obesity among 5,613 children aged 4‐14 years from never poor households, transient poor households (those that became poor only once), recurrent poor households (those that became poor more than once), and persistent poor households (those that became poor and remained poor for at least 4 consecutive years) and examined interactions by race/ethnicity, gender, and age.

Results

Compared with children from never poor households, children from transient poor households (HR 0.79, 95% CI: 0.68‐0.92), recurrent poor households (HR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.62‐0.87), and persistently poor households (HR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.51‐0.74) had significantly reduced risks of becoming overweight or obese. These associations did not vary by race/ethnicity, gender, or age.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that poverty experiences are associated with reduced risk of becoming overweight or obese among children of 4‐14 years.
Satiety, but not total PYY, Is increased with continuous and intermittent exercise
Authors: Holmstrup M. E. , Fairchild T. J. , Keslacy S. , Weinstock R. S. , Kanaley J. A.
Published: February 2013

Objective

This study determined the hormonal and subjective appetite responses to exercise (1‐h continuous versus intermittent exercise throughout the day) in obese individuals.

Design and Methods

Eleven obese subjects (>30 kg/m2) underwent three 12‐h study days: control condition [sedentary behavior (SED)], continuous exercise condition [(EX) 1‐h exercise], and intermittent exercise condition [(INT) 12 hourly, 5‐min bouts]. Blood samples (every 10 min) were measured for serum insulin and total peptide YY (PYY) concentrations, with ratings of appetite (visual analog scale [VAS): every 20 min]. Both total area under the curve (AUC), and subjective appetite ratings were calculated.

Results

No differences were observed in total PYY AUC between conditions, but hunger was reduced with INT (INT < EX; P < 0.05), and satiety was increased with both SED and INT conditions (INT > EX and SED > EX; P < 0.05). A correlation existed between the change in total PYY and insulin levels (r = −0.81; P < 0.05), and total PYY and satiety (r = 0.80; P < 0.05) with the EX condition, not the SED and INT conditions.

Conclusions

The total PYY response to meals is not altered over the course of a 12‐h day with either intermittent or continuous exercise; however, intermittent exercise increased satiety and reduced hunger to a greater extent than continuous exercise in obese individuals.
Simple technique for the simultaneous determination of solvent diffusion coefficient in polymer by Quantum Resistive Sensors and FT‐IR spectroscopy
Authors: Kumar S. K. , Castro M. , Pillin I. , Feller J. F. , Thomas S. , Grohens Y.
Published: February 2013

A simple, quick and novel method for the determination of diffusion properties through polymer films, based on Quantum Resistive Sensors made of Conductive Polymer nanoComposites is presented. The integral time lag method is employed for the calculation of diffusion coefficient, and the results are compared simultaneously with that of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and sorption method. Two model polymers, a semi‐crystalline poly(lactic acid) and an amorphous poly(isobutylene‐co‐isoprene), are used to validate the study. A good correlation is established between the diffusion coefficient values derived from all techniques demonstrating the interest of such reliable, simple and cheap nanosensors for the quick determination (several minutes) of diffusion properties in polymer films. Our first results suggest that this technique is meaningful for the determination of barrier properties in nanocomposite membranes filled with platelets of graphene or clay. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monitoring of small‐scale anionic polymerization of caprolactam; a method to be used in an additive manufacturing process
Authors: Khodabakhshi Khosrow , Gilbert Marianne , Dickens Philip
Published: February 2013

The anionic polymerization of caprolactam using small quantities of reactants was investigated as part of a project aimed at producing polyamide parts by additive manufacturing. Various methods were used to monitor the polymerization and crystallization processes. Drop on drop small‐scale polymerization was carried out on a hot surface and monitored by Fourier transform infrared, which showed that PA6 had been polymerized successfully. PA6 synthesis was carried out in a differential scanning calorimetry cell to monitor the exothermic and endothermic processes during polymerization, and the processes were also observed by hot stage microscopy. It was found that polymerization and crystallization occurred simultaneously at slow heating rates. The amount of crystallinity produced during polymerization decreased as the heating rate increased. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simple physical model for chemomechanics
Authors: Shemesh A. , Stolyarova S. , Nemirovsky Y. , Eichen Y.
Published: February 2013

We present a simple model linking chemical interactions with macroscopic mechanical deformations for polymer‐coated microcantilever devices. The chemo‐mechanical process is treated in terms of Fickian diffusion followed by a structural relaxation of the polymer‐guest complex. The model is tested on a series of microcantilever bending experiments, in the presence of different isotopologues, and at different incident guest fluxes. In many cases, a nontrivial behavior, expressed by the appearance of an overshoot, is observed. The new model provides insight into the ways chemical interactions and reorganization processes manifest themselves in mechanical processes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys., 2013
Can mindfulness‐based interventions help adolescents with cancer?
Authors: Jones Paul , Blunda Megan , Biegel Gina , Carlson Linda E. , Biel Matthew , Wiener Lori
Published: February 2013

During the past 30 years, there has been an increase in the incidence of cancer in adolescents. While recent studies have illustrated remarkable resilience in youth living with cancer, they can also face daunting acute and chronic adjustment struggles, cognitive and school problems, family and peer relational difficulties, depression, post‐traumatic stress symptoms, and other anxiety disorders. Mindfulness‐based interventions (MBIs), increasingly shown to be effective in a variety of medical and mental health settings, may be particularly beneficial for adolescents with cancer. This paper reviews evidence from clinical trials of MBIs showing a variety of benefits for adult cancer patients, adolescents with anxiety disorders and chronic pain, and clinically healthy teenagers, which collectively point to likely benefits of MBIs for teen cancer patients. The authors also explore ways that the particular psychological problems often faced by teen cancer patients, including anxiety about the future, may be especially well suited to mindfulness approaches such as learning to observe physical sensations, thoughts, and emotions, as well as cultivating compassion towards themselves and others. The paper concludes with an exploration of unanswered and potential research questions regarding the future use of MBIs with adolescents with cancer, and potentially with teenagers with other chronic diseases. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Particle Size on Silver Nanoparticle Deposition onto Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) Plasma Functionalized Polyamide Fabric
Authors: Vu Nguyen Khanh , Zille Andrea , Oliveira Fernando Ribeiro , Carneiro Noémia , Souto Antonio Pedro
Published: February 2013

The effect on the deposition of three different size silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) onto a polyamide 6,6 (PA) fabric pre‐treated using air dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma was investigated. The SEM, EDS, and XPS analysis confirm that the smaller is the diameter of AgNPs, the higher the amount of adsorbed NPs on the PA. The DBD treatment on PA induces a threefold increase in Ag adsorption. The result confirms a dual effect on the wettability of the plasma treated PA substrate. AgNPs slightly enhance hydrophobicity of the PA surface and, at the same time, protect it against the plasma aging effect.

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Exploring Links between Internal and International Migration in Albania: a View from Internal Migrants
Authors: Çaro Erka , Bailey Ajay , Van Wissen Leo J. G.
Published: February 2013

Over the last 20 years, Albania has experienced sweeping economic and social changes, caused in part by increasing internal and international migration flows. Migration trajectories of Albanians represent a combination of internal, international, and return migration. Whereas scholars have previously focused mainly on international migration, the current research explores the dynamics between internal and international migration. Typically, the internal migration of a family is supported, psychologically and financially, by the international migration of other household members. This paper reports on the influence that social and economic remittances have on the livelihoods of internal migrants. Using an ethnographic approach, financial and social remittances were shown to improve internal migrants' quality of life, assisting their adjustment process. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards a wireless sensor system for real‐time H2O2 monitoring in aseptic food processes
Authors: Kirchner Patrick , Oberländer Jan , Suso Henri‐Pierre , Rysstad Gunnar , Keusgen Michael , Schöning Michael J.
Published: February 2013

A wireless sensor system based on the industrial ZigBee standard for low‐rate wireless networking was developed that enables real‐time monitoring of gaseous H2O2 during the package sterilization in aseptic food processes. The sensor system consists of a remote unit connected to a calorimetric gas sensor, which was already established in former works, and an external base unit connected to a laptop computer. The remote unit was built up by an XBee radio frequency (RF) module for data communication and a programmable system‐on‐chip controller to read out the sensor signal and process the sensor data, whereas the base unit is a second XBee RF module. For the rapid H2O2 detection on various locations inside the package that has to be sterilized, a novel read‐out strategy of the calorimetric gas sensor was established, wherein the sensor response is measured within the short sterilization time and correlated with the present H2O2 concentration. In an exemplary measurement application in an aseptic filling machinery, the suitability of the new, wireless sensor system was demonstrated, wherein the influence of the gas velocity on the H2O2 distribution inside a package was determined and verified with microbiological tests.
Charge transport in nanoparticle chains influenced by stabilizer molecules
Authors: Govor Leonid V. , Bauer Gottfried H. , Reiter Günter , Parisi Jürgen
Published: February 2013

We have bridged a pair of gold electrodes through chains and arrays of gold nanoparticles (NPs), which were stabilized by a coating of citrate molecules. We performed a systematic and comparative analysis of current–voltage (I–V) characteristics for chains of NPs having variable lengths and configurations. Besides stochastic current fluctuations at a constant bias voltage and quasi‐periodic fluctuations of the differential conductance arising from conformational changes of citrate molecules, we also observed that the arrangement and distribution of NPs can be changed by the applied electric field, contributing to conductance fluctuations and leading to irreversible changes and finally rupture of the conducting bridge. Although in all cases gold is bridged by the same citrate molecules, a significantly higher resistance between gold electrodes and the citrate coated gold NPs was found as compared to the resistance between identical NPs. This difference is attributed to the fact that citrate molecules are chemically attached to the NPs, but are only physically interacting with the electrodes. Thus, the resistance of the bridge is not only a function of the number of molecular contacts but also depends on the strength of the individual interactions between metal conductor and molecules.
Thermodynamic investigations in the precursor region of FeGe
Authors: Cevey L. , Wilhelm H. , Schmidt M. , Lortz R.
Published: February 2013

High‐resolution DC magnetization and AC‐specific‐heat data of the cubic helimagnet FeGe have been measured as function of temperature and magnetic field. The magnetization data as well as the isothermal susceptibility data confirm the complexity of the magnetic phase diagram in the vicinity of the onset of long‐range magnetic order (Tc = 278.5 K) and the existence of a segmented A‐phase region. Moreover, these data revealed independent and clear indications of phase boundaries and crossovers within the A‐phase region. Together with the anomalies in the specific‐heat data around Tc and at small magnetic fields (H < 600 Oe) a complex magnetic phase diagram of FeGe is obtained.
Search for a quantum critical point in CeRhSi3 via electrical resistivity
Authors: Iida Hiroki , Sugawara Tetsuya , Aoki Haruyoshi , Kimura Noriaki
Published: February 2013

We have verified an existence of a quantum critical point (QCP) in heavy‐fermion superconductor CeRhSi3 under magnetic fields and pressures by using the electrical resistivity measurements. Firstly, we revealed magnetic field–temperature (H–T) phase diagrams at several pressures: below and above the pressure where the antiferromagnetic (AFM) order disappears in zero magnetic field. In a higher pressure, we determined the quantum‐phase‐transition field HM where the AFM transition temperature drops to zero. Recovery to Fermi liquid state is not clearly observed above HM. Therefore, HM is not conclusively determined as the QCP.
Temperature–field phase diagram of quantum critical CeAuSb2
Authors: Lorenzer K.‐A. , Strydom A. M. , Thamizhavel A. , Paschen S.
Published: February 2013

CeAuSb2 has previously been classified as an antiferromagnet with moderately enhanced electron masses. As the magnetic order is suppressed by a magnetic field, non‐Fermi liquid behaviour has been shown to emerge, suggesting the presence of a quantum critical point (QCP). Within the ordered phase a metamagnetic transition was detected. Here we investigate the material by isothermal magnetization M(H), transverse magnetoresistivity ρt(H) and Hall resistivity ρH(H) measurements. We show that the metamagnetic transition splits into two first order transitions below 2 K. Pronounced anomalies in ρt(H) and ρH(H) are not only observed at the QCP and the metamagnetic transitions but also at a new characteristic field above the QCP.
Thermodynamics of field‐tuned quantum critical point in CeAgSb2
Authors: Zou Yang , Logg Peter , Barber Mark , Feng Zhuo , Ebihara Takao , Grosche F. Malte
Published: February 2013

The intermetallic compound CeAgSb2 is a rare example of a ferromagnetically ordered Kondo lattice system. The transition temperature of 9.6 K in zero field is sensitive to the application of magnetic fields perpendicular to the easy axis. Therefore transverse field tuning could be used as an effective way to investigate quantum critical behaviour. In this work we present combined measurements of the specific heat and the magnetocaloric effect which allows a comprehensive thermodynamical study of the system. The entropy landscape is constructed as a function of temperature and field tuning.
Magnetic properties of Yb(Rh0.42Co0.58)2Si2
Authors: Hannaske Ariane , Stockert Oliver , Klingner Christoph , Krellner Cornelius , Matas Slavomir , Pedrero Luis , Brando Manuel , Geibel Christoph , Steglich Frank
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we present a comprehensive study of heat capacity, resistivity, neutron diffraction and magnetization measurements on Yb(Rh0.42Co0.58)2Si2. Heat capacity and resistivity measurements revealed one phase transition at Tm ≈ 820 mK into the magnetically ordered phase, but in neutron diffraction experiments the magnetic intensity at the commensurate position $\tau = (\matrix{ {0.25 } & {0.75 } & {0} \cr } )$ vanished already at a lower TL ≈ 700 mK. From magnetization measurements we could derive the existence of two magnetic phases, an antiferromagnetic phase below TL ≈ 700 mK and an intermediate phase in the temperature range $T_{{\rm L}} < T < T_{{\rm m}} $, which shows surprisingly ferromagnetic properties when applying magnetic fields along the [001] direction.
GaN‐based high voltage transistors for efficient power switching
Authors: Waltereit Patrick , Reiner Richard , Czap Heiko , Peschel Detlef , Müller Stefan , Quay Rüdiger , Mikulla Michael , Ambacher Oliver
Published: February 2013

We present results from GaN‐based high voltage transistors used for power switching applications. The static and dynamic properties of transistors on SiC and Si substrates are determined. Overall, this technology is capable to deliver 1000 V breakdown and 95 A output current as well as a lower product of on‐resistance and gate charge than conventional Si‐based structures. Areas of further improvement in epitaxial growth and device processing are outlined in order to combine these high currents and high voltages in a single device. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)