bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sprouting and seed production may promote persistence of green ash in the presence of the emerald ash borer
Authors: Kashian Daniel M.
Published: June 2016

Invasive insects and pathogens have had major impacts on many forest tree species in North America that often affect forest structure and composition. Despite these effects, variation exists in the likelihood that some native species may persist following outbreaks and establishment of exotic insects and pathogens. Emerald ash borer (EAB; Agrilus planipennis) has killed millions of trees near its introduction point in southeastern Michigan, and several recent studies in the area have predicted functional elimination of green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) from the landscape. Intensive management in yet unaffected stands that results from such predictions, however, demands data that examine the potential for persistence of the host species in the presence of the invasive. This study examined the potential for persistence of green ash in the presence of EAB by measuring surviving trees, regeneration, and seed rain characteristics in 17 small, near‐pure stands of green ash in five consecutive growing seasons. Live trees experienced 58% mortality due to EAB, significantly less than that reported for ash in mixed stands. Approximately 20% of surviving trees exhibited signs of EAB, confirming that EAB mortality has slowed significantly but is ongoing. Sprouting was the dominant mode of ash regeneration in every year, and 27% of large sprouts produced seeds during a mast year in 2011. Advanced regeneration and new seedling establishment resulted in a sizable level of ash regeneration over the five years of the study even when sapling and seedling mortality was taken into account. Seed production was reduced considerably following EAB‐caused mortality, but there was no evidence that seed dispersal limited seedling recruitment. These results suggest that the seed‐producing ability of small trees and basal sprouts, as well as continued low‐level mortality that will retain reduced host density, may allow green ash to persist in the presence of EAB. Although green ash populations and individual trees are unlikely to ever resemble the stature of those prior to EAB, their presence will continue to be an important component of forests on the landscape.
Solidago gigantea plants from nonnative ranges compensate more in response to damage than plants from the native range
Authors: Liao Huixuan , Gurgel Priscila C. S. , Pal Robert W. , Hooper David , Callaway Ragan M.
Published: June 2016

Resistance and tolerance are two ways that plants cope with herbivory. Tolerance, the ability of a plant to regrow or reproduce after being consumed, has been studied less than resistance, but this trait varies widely among species and has considerable potential to affect the ecology of plant species. One particular aspect of tolerance, compensatory responses, can evolve rapidly in plant species; providing insight into interactions between consumers and plants. However, compensation by invasive species has rarely been explored. We compared compensatory responses to the effects of simulated herbivory expressed by plants from seven Solidago gigantea populations from the native North American range to that expressed by plants from nine populations from the nonnative European range. Populations were also collected along elevational gradients to compare ecotypic variation within and between ranges. Solidago plants from the nonnative range of Europe were more tolerant to herbivory than plants from the native range of North America. Furthermore, plants from European populations increased in total biomass and growth rate with elevation, but decreased in compensatory response. There were no relationships between elevation and growth or compensation for North American populations. Our results suggest that Solidago gigantea may have evolved to better compensate for herbivory damage in Europe, perhaps in response to a shift to greater proportion of attack from generalists. Our results also suggest a possible trade‐off between rapid growth and compensation to damage in European populations but not in North American populations.
Nanocrystalline Manganese Iron Oxide as a Charge Storage Electrode
Authors: Soni Disha , Pal Rahul
Published: June 2016

Phase pure nanocrystalline manganese iron oxide [(Mn0.37Fe0.63)2O3] was synthesized by combustion technique based on propellant chemistry principle employing citric acid as fuel. The synthesized powder was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), BET, BJH analysis and electrochemical studies for possible application as a charge storage electrode. The average crystallite size was found to be 18.6 nm from XRD analysis. BET analysis yielded the surface area and specific pore volume of the powder to be 22.96 m2 g−1 and 0.0098 cm3 g−1 respectively. The specific capacitance from cyclic voltammetric studies at scan rate 5 mV s−1 was found to be about 30 F g−1 cm−2 while from charge discharge studies was found to be 27±1 F g−1 cm−2. In addition, the material showed appreciable stability during charge‐discharge cycling.
Development of Electrochemical Immunosensors towards Point‐of‐care Cancer Diagnostics: Clinically Relevant Studies
Authors: Laocharoensuk Rawiwan
Published: June 2016

Development of electrochemical biosensors towards cancer biomarker detection has been in the spot light for several decades. Electrochemical detection holds great promise for clinical applications because it offers several advantages including sensitive, fast, simple and low‐cost. In addition, multiplexing capability for simultaneous detection of multiple biomarkers is feasible. Unfortunately, transition of biosensors from laboratories to the market is challenging. This review intends to summarize recent advances in the development of electrochemical immunosensors for the next generation cancer diagnostic devices. Clinically relevant details of cancer biomarkers such as threshold value and their diagnosis/prognosis application will be given in conjunction with the electrochemical detection platforms that have been validated using clinical samples. Finally, the critical aspects that require great attention in order to fulfill the criteria of biomedical diagnostics will be covered.
Does the scientific underpinning of regulatory tools to estimate bioavailability of nickel in freshwaters matter? The European-wide environmental quality standard for nickel
Authors: Peters Adam , Schlekat Christian E. , Merrington Graham
Published: June 2016

A bioavailability-based environmental quality standard (EQS) was established for nickel in freshwaters under the European Union's Water Framework Directive. Bioavailability correction based on pH, water hardness, and dissolved organic carbon is a demonstrable improvement on existing hardness-based quality standards, which may be underprotective in high-hardness waters. The present study compares several simplified bioavailability tools developed to implement the Ni EQS (biomet, M-BAT, and PNECPro) against the full bioavailability normalization procedure on which the EQS was based. Generally, all tools correctly distinguished sensitive waters from insensitive waters, although with varying degrees of accuracy compared with full normalization. Biomet and M-BAT predictions were consistent with, but less accurate than, full bioavailability normalization results, whereas PNECpro results were generally more conservative. The comparisons revealed important differences in tools in development, which results in differences in the predictions. Importantly, the models used for the development of PNECpro use a different ecotoxicity dataset, and a different bioavailability normalization approach using fewer biotic ligand models (BLMs) than that used for the derivation of the Ni EQS. The failure to include all of the available toxicity data, and all of the appropriate NiBLMs, has led to some significant differences between the predictions provided by PNECpro and those calculated using the process agreed to in Europe under the Water Framework Directive and other chemicals management programs (such as REACH). These considerable differences mean that PNECpro does not reflect the behavior, fate, and ecotoxicity of nickel, and raises concerns about its applicability for checking compliance against the Ni EQS. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2397–2404. © 2016 SETAC
Effect of dietary selenium source (organic vs. mineral) and muscle pH on meat quality characteristics of pigs
Authors: Calvo Luis , Toldrá Fidel , Rodríguez Ana I. , López‐Bote Clemente , Rey Ana I.
Published: June 2016

This study evaluates the effect of organic (Se‐enriched yeast; SeY) versus inorganic selenium (sodium selenite; SeS) supplementation and the different response of selenium source according to muscle pH on pork meat quality characteristics. Pigs (n = 30) were fed the Se‐supplemented diets (0.3 mg/kg) for 65 days. Neither electric conductivity (EC) nor drip loss were affected by the selenium source. The SeY group had lower TBARS in muscle samples after day 7 of refrigerated storage and higher a* values on days 1 and 7 than the SeS group. The effect of dietary selenium source on some meat quality characteristics was affected by muscle pH. Hence, as the muscle pH increases, the drip loss decreases but this effect is more marked with the dietary organic Se enrichment. Muscle pH seems to modulate the action of selenium in pork, especially some meat characteristics such as drip loss.
Cross‐Hedging Ambiguous Exchange Rate Risk
Authors: Wong Kit Pong
Published: June 2016

This paper examines the behavior of an exporting firm that sells its output to two foreign countries, only one of which has futures and options available for its currency. The firm possesses smooth ambiguity preferences and faces multiple sources of ambiguous exchange rate risk. We show that the separation theorem fails to hold in that the firm's production and export decisions depend on the firm's attitude toward ambiguity and on the incident to the underlying ambiguity. Given that the random spot exchange rates are first‐order independent with respect to each plausible subjective distribution, we derive necessary and sufficient conditions under which the full‐hedging theorem applies to the firm's cross‐hedging decisions. When these conditions are violated, we show that the firm includes options in its optimal hedge position. This paper as such offers a rationale for the hedging role of options under smooth ambiguity preferences and cross‐hedging of ambiguous exchange rate risk. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 37:132–147, 2017
Sedimentary response to ignimbrite emplacement across a fluvial–shallow‐marine transition: Ordovician Mweelrea Formation, South Mayo Trough, Western Ireland
Authors: Riggs Nancy , McConnell Brian
Published: June 2016

The Ordovician Mweelrea Formation is part of the basin fill of the South Mayo Trough in western Ireland and records progradation of alluvial facies northwestward across shallow‐ and marginal‐marine Mweelrea ‘passage beds’ to marine Glenummera Formation facies. Early in Mweelrea Formation sedimentation, the first of a series of ignimbrites was emplaced, causing a disruption in this progradation. The preserved thickness of the ignimbrite is up to ca. 12 m, and the sedimentary response varied depending on the environment that was affected. Eastern exposures of the Mweelrea Formation are coarse grained and represent fluvial facies. Emplacement of the ignimbrite caused overlying sediment to become richer in feldspar as well as coarser grained; heavy‐mineral laminations are common here and in many supra‐ignimbrite exposures, but the depositional style was unchanged. The ignimbrite overlies decreasing thickness of fluvial sandstone towards the west to where it directly overlies shoreline and shallow‐marine passage beds. Here, sandstone that overlies the ignimbrite is fluvial, indicating that emplacement of the ignimbrite brought about an abrupt progradation. At the westernmost outcrops of Mweelrea Formation, the ignimbrite lies at the contact with the underlying marine Glenummera Formation. Marine sedimentation continued after emplacement of the ignimbrite, although a coarse conglomerate horizon immediately overlying the ignimbrite together with development of a delta suggests that sediment input was vastly increased. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epidemiology of dementia and its burden in the city of Kolkata, India
Authors: Banerjee Tapas Kumar , Dutta Saunak , Das Sujata , Ghosal Malay , Ray Biman Kanti , Biswas Atanu , Hazra Avijit , Chaudhuri Arijit , Paul Neelanjana , Das Shyamal Kumar
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Increase in aging population is expected to lead to increasing prevalence of dementia in India. In this study, we aimed to determine prevalence, incidence, and mortality of dementia and its subtypes and assess dementia burden in terms of disability‐adjusted life years (DALY).

Methods

A community study was conducted over 5 years (2003–2008) in Kolkata, India, on 100,802 (males 53,209) randomly selected subjects to assess prevalence and capture data on incident cases and deaths. Standard case definitions were used. The data were used to estimate years of life lost (YLL) due to premature mortality, years of life lived with disability (YLD), and DALY, based on Global Burden of Disease 2010 approach.

Results

During 2003–2004, there were 103 (men 55) cases of dementia. The prevalence was 1.53% (age adjusted 1.12%) at age ≥65 years. In those ≥55 years age, average annual incidence rate of dementia was 72.57 per 100,000. All‐cause standardized mortality ratio in dementia cases was 4.74 (men 6.19, women 3.03). The burden of dementia in 2007–2008 revealed that overall YLL was 47.13 per 100,000 and YLD ranged from 1.87 to 16.95 per 100,000 depending on the clinical severity of dementia. The overall DALY lost per 100,000 due to dementia for the year 2007–2008 was 74.19.

Conclusions

This community study revealed a low prevalence and incidence of dementia with consequent low DALY‐derived burden of illness compared with many industrialized nations. YLL formed major component of DALY indicating premature mortality to be an outcome of dementia burden. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oncologic outcomes of patients with positive margins after laser cordectomy for T1 and T2 glottic squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Charbonnier Quentin , Thisse Anne‐Sophie , Sleghem Laurent , Mouawad François , Chevalier Dominique , Page Cyril , Mortuaire Geoffrey
Published: June 2016

Background

The oncologic impact of surgical margins after transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) for T1 and T2 glottic carcinoma is controversial. The purpose of this study was to assess the prognostic value of margin status in terms of local control.

Methods

Records of 266 patients treated from 1990 to 2013 were evaluated. Patients with previous cordectomy or without preoperative CT scan were excluded from the study.

Results

A total 110 patients (85 T1a, 8 T1b, and 17 T2) were enrolled. A local recurrence was observed in 23 patients. Five‐year disease‐free survival was significantly impaired in patients with positive margins (p = .009) and in patients with deep involvement of the vocal muscle (p = .004).

Conclusion

The present study shows that invaded margin is a factor of poor local control even though laser vaporization was systematically applied after resection. In case of deep vocal fold involvement, TLM should be extended beyond the vocal muscle to improve local control. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1804–1809, 2016
Effect of vildagliptin and pravastatin combination on cholesterol efflux in adipocytes
Authors: Mostafa Ahmed M. , Hamdy Nadia M. , Abdel‐Rahman Sherif Z. , El‐Mesallamy Hala O.
Published: June 2016

Many reports suggested that some statins are almost ineffective in reducing triglycerides or enhancing HDL‐C plasma levels, although statin treatment was still efficacious in reducing LDL‐C. In diabetic dyslipidemic patients, it may therefore be necessary to use a combination therapy with other drugs to achieve either LDL‐C‐ and triglyceride‐lowering or HDL‐C‐enhancing goals. Such ineffectiveness of statins can be attributed to their effect on the liver X receptor (LXR) which regulates the expression of the ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters ABCA1 and ABCG1. A decrease in the expression of these transporters eventually leads to decreased cholesterol efflux from peripheral tissues leading to low levels of HDL‐C. Although manipulating the LXR pathway may complement the effects of statins, LXR synthetic ligands as T091317 have shown significant hypertriglyceridemic action which limits their use. We recently found that the antidiabetic drug vildagliptin stimulates LXR expression leading to increased ABCB1/ABCG1 expression which improves cholesterol efflux from adipocytes. Therefore, a combination of vildagliptin and statin may provide a solution without the hypertriglyceridemic action observed with LXR agonist. We hypothesize that a combination of vildagliptin and pravastatin will improve cholesterol efflux in adipocytes. Statin‐treated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were treated with vildagliptin, and the expression of LXR‐ABCA1/ABCG1 cascade and the cholesterol efflux were then determined. Our data indicate that a combination of vildagliptin and pravastatin significantly induces the expression of LXR‐ABCA1/ABCG1 cascade and improves cholesterol efflux (P > 0.05) in adipocytes. Our data may explain, at least in part, the improvement in HDL‐C levels observed in patients receiving both medications. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 68(7):535–543, 2016
Low Lean Mass Predicts Incident Fractures Independently From FRAX: a Prospective Cohort Study of Recent Retirees
Authors: Hars Mélany , Biver Emmanuel , Chevalley Thierry , Herrmann François , Rizzoli René , Ferrari Serge , Trombetti Andrea
Published: June 2016

Whether low muscle mass predisposes to fracture is still poorly understood. In the diagnosis of sarcopenia, different thresholds for low lean mass have been proposed but comparative data for these criteria against hard outcomes such as fractures are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of low lean mass according to different thresholds used in operational definitions of sarcopenia and their association with 3-year fracture incidence in a cohort of healthy 63- to 67-year-old community dwellers. In a longitudinal analysis of 913 participants (mean age 65.0 ± 1.4 years) enrolled in the Geneva Retirees Cohort (GERICO) study, lean mass was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and low trauma clinical fracture incidence was recorded over a 3-year period. Prevalence of low lean mass ranged from 3.5% to 20.2% according to the threshold applied. During a follow-up of 3.4 ± 0.9 years, 40 (4.4%) participants sustained at least one low trauma fracture. After multivariate adjustment including Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) probability with femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD), low lean mass, as defined by Baumgartner thresholds, was associated with higher fracture risk (odds ratio [OR], 2.32; 95% CI, 1.04 to 5.18; p = 0.040). It also added significant predictive value beyond FRAX (likelihood ratio test for nested models, 4.28; p < 0.039). No significant association was found for other definition thresholds. The coexistence of sarcopenia and a T-score <–2.5 at spine or hip was associated with a 3.39-fold (95% CI, 1.54 to 7.46; p = 0.002) increase in low trauma fracture risk. In conclusion, low lean mass, as defined by the Baumgartner thresholds, is a predictor of incident fractures in a large cohort of healthy 65-year-old community dwellers, independently of FRAX probability. The increased risk is related to the threshold for low lean mass selected. These findings suggest that identification of sarcopenia should be considered in fracture risk assessment beyond usual risk factors. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Clinical epidemiology of acute hepatitis C in South America
Authors: Dirchwolf Melisa , Marciano Sebastián , Mauro Ezequiel , Ruf Andrés Eduardo , Rezzonico Lucrecia , Anders Margarita , Chiodi Daniela , Petta Néstor Gill , Borzi Silvia , Tanno Federico , Ridruejo Ezequiel , Barreyro Fernando , Shulman Carolina , Plaza Pablo , Carbonetti Rodolfo , Tadey Luciana , Schroder Teresa , Fainboim Hugo
Published: June 2016

There is scarce data pertaining to acute hepatitis C (aHC) infection in South America. We aimed to describe clinical characteristics and evolution of aHC in a South American cohort. A retrospective survey was conducted at 13 hepatology units. All patients ≥16 years old with aHC diagnosis were included. Demographic, clinical and outcome information were registered in a standardized ad hoc questionnaire. Sixty‐four patients were included. The majority were middle‐aged (median age: 46 years) and female (65.6%); most of them were symptomatic at diagnosis (79.6%). HCV‐1 was the most prevalent genotype (69.2%). Five patients had liver failure: three cases of severe acute hepatitis, one case of fulminant hepatitis and one case of acute‐on‐chronic liver failure. Nosocomial exposure was the most prevalent risk factor. Evolution was assessed in 46 patients. In the untreated cohort, spontaneous resolution occurred in 45.8% and was associated with higher values of AST/ALT and with the absence of intermittent HCV RNA viremia (P = 0.01, 0.05, and 0.01, respectively). In the treated cohort, sustained virological response was associated with nosocomial transmission and early treatment initiation (P = 0.04 each). The prevalence of nosocomial transmission in this South‐American cohort of aHC stresses the importance of following universal precautions to prevent HCV infection. J. Med. Virol. 89:276–283, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Numerical simulation and a parametric study of inorganic nanowire solar cells
Authors: Ali Nouran M. , Abdel Haleem Ashraf M. , Allam Nageh K. , Rafat Nadia H.
Published: June 2016

Radial junction nanorods (nanowires) are mainly used to improve the carrier collection efficiency and accordingly the conversion efficiency of solar cells. In this work, a numerical simulator has been produced for a cylindrical p–n junction solar cell based on a finite difference discretization of semiconductor, Poisson's, drift–diffusion transport and charge continuity equations. It can be applied to estimate the photogenerated current density, open circuit voltage, fill factor and conversion efficiency of inorganic radial p–n and p–i–n junction nanowires. Additionally, the simulator can produce the spatial distribution of the carriers' densities, electric field and energy bands of the nanowires. The simulator results show a good matching with previously published ones. Finally, the simulator is used in a parametric study to optimize the geometry and the junction depth of cylindrical silicon solar cells. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exposure to Violence During Ferguson Protests: Mental Health Effects for Law Enforcement and Community Members
Authors: Galovski Tara E. , Peterson Zoë D. , Beagley Marin C. , Strasshofer David R. , Held Philip , Fletcher Thomas D.
Published: June 2016

There is little information available on the mental health effects of exposure to shared community violence such as the August 2014 violence that occurred in Ferguson, Missouri. This study sought to examine the relationship between proximity to community violence and mental health in both community members and police officers. We recruited 565 adults (community, n = 304, and police, n = 261) exposed to the violence in Ferguson to complete measures of proximity to violence, posttraumatic stress, depression, and anger. Using structural equation modeling, we assessed aspects of proximity to violence—connectedness, direct exposure, fear from exposure, media exposure, reactions to media, and life interruption—as correlates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depression, and anger. The final model yielded (n = 432), χ2(d = 12) = 7.4, p = .830; comparative fit index = 1.0, root mean square error of approximation = 0 [0, .04]. All aspects of proximity except direct exposure were associated with mental health outcomes. There was no moderation as a function of community versus police. Race moderated the relationship between life interruptions and negative outcomes; interruption was related to distress for White, but not Black community members. Based on group comparisons, community members reported more symptoms of PTSD and depression than law enforcement (ηp2 = .06 and .02, respectively). Black community members reported more PTSD and depression than White community members (ηp2 = .05 and .02, respectively). Overall, distress was high, and mental health interventions are likely indicated for some individuals exposed to the Ferguson events.
Stability of integral operators on a space of homogeneous type
Authors: Fang Qiquan , Eon Shin Chang
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we consider integral operators T on compact spaces of homogeneous type with finite diameter, whose kernels have certain Hölder regularity and mild singularity near the diagonal. We show that given any , the ‐stability of the operator is equivalent for different , where I stands for the identity operator.
Identification of pigmented Serratia marcescens symbiotically associated with Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Scrascia Maria , Pazzani Carlo , Valentini Franco , Oliva Marta , Russo Valentina , D'Addabbo Pietro , Porcelli Francesco
Published: June 2016

To characterize red pigment‐producing bacteria (RPPB) regularly released during oviposition by red palm weevil (RPW), RPPB were recovered from eggs deposited in apples supplied as substrate for oviposition. The presence of RPPB was also detected from gut, the reproductive apparatus of dissected adult and virgin insects and from pupal cases collected within infested palms. RPPB were also identified all along the tissue of these palms. Analysis of the 16S rDNA, gyrB, rpoB, recA, and groEL sequences assigned RPPB to the species Serratia marcescens. RPPB exhibited an antimicrobial activity assessed by the agar well diffusion method against a number of gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. In this study, we first report the identification of a red pigment‐producing S. marcescens as extracellular symbiont of RPW. Route of transmission, detection within different organs, and a wide spread along the infested palm tissue, suggested S. marcescens is present as extracellular symbiont in different developmental stages of the RPW. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity exhibited versus Bacillus spp., Paenibacillus spp., and Lysinibacillus spp., reported as insect pathogens and potential candidates for biocontrol agents, could ascribe for S. marcescens a potential protective role.
Genome‐wide identification of blood DNA methylation patterns associated with early‐onset hepatocellular carcinoma development in hepatitis B carriers
Authors: Kao Wei‐Yi , Yang Shu‐Han , Liu Wen‐Jie , Yeh Meng‐Yin , Lin Chih‐Lin , Liu Chun‐Jen , Huang Chi‐Jung , Lin Shi‐Ming , Lee Shou‐Dong , Chen Pei‐Jer , Yu Ming‐Whei
Published: June 2016

The etiology of early‐onset hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers remains unclear. DNA methylation levels in peripheral leukocytes have been associated with different environmental exposures and immune or inflammatory response. We aimed to identify methylation signatures of peripheral leukocytes that could track hepatitis B progression to HCC, especially for early‐onset HCC. We first performed an epigenome‐wide association analysis on 48 matched case‐control pairs in a nested case‐control study within a 22‐yr follow‐up cohort of HBV carriers. Through this analysis we found that progression to early‐onset HCC involved methylation variable positions across the genome, in which a substantial proportion displayed significant variation due to HBV viral load, chronic hepatitis status, and/or leukocyte subtype composition, and these associations were significantly enriched among genes in immune pathways. Methylation at probes cg00300879, cg06872964, and cg07080864, that are located within the proximal promoter of CNKSR1, IFI44L, and PENK, respectively, was validated by bisulfite pyrosequencing and findings were replicated in a case‐sibling study of early‐onset HCC (134 cases vs. 174 sibling controls). Furthermore, a high methylation score, constructed using the three probes, was predictive for the risk of early‐onset HCC in two datasets (adjusted‐odds ratios = 0.21–0.32, P ≤ 0.0206). This association was also observed for late‐onset HCC (adjusted‐odds ratio = 0.42–0.47, P ≤ 0.0194) in a nested case‐control study (120 cases vs. 178 controls). In prospective analysis, change in the score was detected 5–9 yr before HCC onset. Blood‐based methylation profiling provides new insights into the complexity of virus‐host interaction underlying HBV‐related HCC, holding promise for the disease risk management. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cinnamon extract reduces VEGF expression via suppressing HIF‐1α gene expression and inhibits tumor growth in mice
Authors: Zhang Keqiang , Han Ernest S. , Dellinger Thanh H. , Lu Jianming , Nam Sangkil , Anderson Richard A. , Yim John H. , Wen Wei
Published: June 2016

Although many anti‐VEGF agents are available for cancer treatment, side effects of these agents limit their application for cancer treatment and prevention. Here we studied the potential use of a diet‐based agent as an inhibitor for VEGF production. Using a VEGF reporter assay, our data showed that an extract from cinnamon (CE) was a potent inhibitor of VEGF production in human cancer cells and suggested inhibition might be mediated through the suppression of HIF‐1α gene expression and protein synthesis. Furthermore, CE treatment was found to inhibit expression and phosphorylation of STAT3 and AKT, which are key factors in the regulation of HIF‐1α expression, and significantly reduce angiogenesis potential of cancer cells by migration assay. Consistent with these results, we observed significant suppression of VEGF expression, blood vessel formation, and tumor growth in a human ovarian tumor model in mice treated with CE. Cinnamaldehyde, a major component in cinnamon, was identified as one active component in CE that inhibits VEGF expression. Taken together, our findings provide a novel mechanism underlying anti‐angiogenic and anti‐tumor actions of CE and support the potential use of CE in cancer prevention and treatment. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Influence of a Mexican Cultural Immersion Experience on Personal and Professional Healthcare Practices
Authors: Crowe Terry , Sanchez Victoria , Weber Allison , Murtagh Amy
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this study was to understand the influence of a cultural immersion experience on personal and professional healthcare practices of occupational therapists. The experience, a 10‐day course in Oaxaca, Mexico, exposed participants to alternative and complementary medicine through interactive sessions with Mexican indigenous traditional healers. The literature indicates that cultural immersion experiences can increase the perceived cultural effectiveness of healthcare professionals. Three focus groups were conducted with eight occupational therapists and two occupational therapy fieldwork students who had participated in the course. Themes were coded based on responses to each question by two graduate students and a qualitative researcher. Four major themes emerged regarding the influence of a cultural immersion experience on personal and professional healthcare practices of occupational therapists: (1) Natural Remedies; (2) Mind, Body, Spirit Connection; (3) Increased Openness; and (4) Challenges of Integrating Traditional and Western Medicine. The themes derived from this study confirmed the advantages of a cultural immersion experience on both the personal and professional views and practices of occupational therapists. Cultural immersion courses can assist occupational therapists to better understand different cultural views of health, disability and healing in order to provide quality occupational therapy care in a multicultural society. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The psychosocial experiences of breast cancer amongst Black, South Asian and White survivors: do differences exist between ethnic groups?
Authors: Patel‐Kerai Geeta , Harcourt Diana , Rumsey Nichola , Naqvi Habib , White Paul
Published: June 2016

Background

Very little UK‐based research has examined breast cancer‐related experiences of Black and Minority Ethnic populations, and we do not know whether the psychosocial impact of diagnosis and treatment in this group is any different to that of White women. Therefore, this study examined similarities and differences amongst Black, South Asian and White breast cancer survivors.

Methods

A quantitative, cross‐sectional survey was conducted; 173 breast cancer survivors (80 White, 53 South Asian and 40 Black) completed a questionnaire, which assessed psychological functioning, social support, body image and beliefs about cancer.

Results

Significant differences (p < 0.05) were reported between White and South Asian participants: compared with White women, South Asian participants reported higher levels of anxiety and depression, poorer quality of life and held higher levels of internal and fatalistic beliefs pertaining to cancer. Black and South Asian women reported higher levels of body image concerns than White women, and held stronger beliefs that God was in control of their cancer. South Asian women turned to religion as a source of support more than Black and White women.

Conclusion

This study enhances current understanding of the experience and impact of breast cancer amongst Black and South Asian women, and demonstrates similarities and differences between the ethnic groups. The findings highlight implications for healthcare professionals, particularly in relation to providing culturally sensitive care and support to their patients. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MSIAC – Supporting the Insensitive Munitions Community
Authors: Sharp Michael W.
Published: June 2016

The NATO Munitions Safety Information Analysis Center (MSIAC) is a multinational collaboration that collects, stores, and analyses technical information related to Munitions Safety (MS) and Insensitive Munitions (IM). MSIAC supports its member nations through a variety of products and services. In addition to a core responsibility of addressing technical questions related to Munitions Safety posed by members, MSIAC has a diverse programme of work aimed at developing and sharing the related underpinning scientific knowledge. This is applied to support munition safety policy development and implementation. This article provides an overview of some of the current and future areas of work which MSIAC is involved in, with a focus on IM and energetic materials.
Research trends in social network sites’ educational use: a review of publications in all SSCI journals to 2015
Authors: Akçayır Gökçe , Akçayır Murat
Published: June 2016

In the current study, 247 articles dealing with the use of SNSs (social network sites) in education and published in Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI) journals up to 2015 were analysed. The articles’ demographic (year, learner type, used SNS, major contributing countries, and academic discipline) and topic trends were determined. As a result of the analyses that were conducted, the research topics were classified into nine groups (learner outcomes, instructional approaches, contributions to education, dispositions, demographics, interaction, comparison, support and others). These nine topics were subsequently divided into relevant sub‐topics. The findings demonstrate that the number of studies dealing with the educational use of SNSs is increasing each year. Significant numbers of research studies have investigated higher education. The topic of learner outcomes has also become a trend topic. Other findings obtained are discussed in detail, the existing gaps in the literature are determined and several suggestions are made regarding future research.
Asynchronously compensated synchronization algorithm for multiple harmonic oscillators with communication delay
Authors: Liu Cheng‐Lin , Xie Lihua , Liu Shuai , Liu Fei
Published: June 2016

Synchronization problem is investigated for multiple harmonic oscillators with identical communication delay in this paper. We propose a new distributed control algorithm in asynchronously compensated form and a corresponding reduced‐order observer‐based distributed control algorithm. By using frequency‐domain analysis, delay‐dependent and delay‐independent convergence conditions are obtained for our proposed algorithms under leader‐following and leaderless coordination control structures, respectively, and the results can be directly extended to the observer‐based algorithm based on the separation principle. Numerical examples illustrate the validity of the theoretical findings. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reduced Graphene Oxide‐GelMA Hybrid Hydrogels as Scaffolds for Cardiac Tissue Engineering
Authors: Shin Su Ryon , Zihlmann Claudio , Akbari Mohsen , Assawes Pribpandao , Cheung Louis , Zhang Kaizhen , Manoharan Vijayan , Zhang Yu Shrike , Yüksekkaya Mehmet , Wan Kai‐tak , Nikkhah Mehdi , Dokmeci Mehmet R. , Tang Xiaowu (Shirley) , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: June 2016

Biomaterials currently used in cardiac tissue engineering have certain limitations, such as lack of electrical conductivity and appropriate mechanical properties, which are two parameters playing a key role in regulating cardiac cell behavior. Here, the myocardial tissue constructs are engineered based on reduced graphene oxide (rGO)‐incorporated gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hybrid hydrogels. The incorporation of rGO into the GelMA matrix significantly enhances the electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of the material. Moreover, cells cultured on composite rGO‐GelMA scaffolds exhibit better biological activities such as cell viability, proliferation, and maturation compared to ones cultured on GelMA hydrogels. Cardiomyocytes show stronger contractility and faster spontaneous beating rate on rGO‐GelMA hydrogel sheets compared to those on pristine GelMA hydrogels, as well as GO‐GelMA hydrogel sheets with similar mechanical property and particle concentration. Our strategy of integrating rGO within a biocompatible hydrogel is expected to be broadly applicable for future biomaterial designs to improve tissue engineering outcomes. The engineered cardiac tissue constructs using rGO incorporated hybrid hydrogels can potentially provide high‐fidelity tissue models for drug studies and the investigations of cardiac tissue development and/or disease processes in vitro.
Hypoxia and Reactive Oxygen Species Homeostasis in Mesenchymal Progenitor Cells Define a Molecular Mechanism for Fracture Nonunion
Authors: Muinos-López Emma , Ripalda-Cemboráin Purificación , López-Martínez Tania , González-Gil Ana B. , Lamo-Espinosa José M. , Valentí Andrés , Mortlock Douglas P. , Valentí Juan R. , Prósper Felipe , Granero-Moltó Froilán
Published: June 2016

Fracture nonunion is a major complication of bone fracture regeneration and repair. The molecular mechanisms that result in fracture nonunion appearance are not fully determined. We hypothesized that fracture nonunion results from the failure of hypoxia and hematoma, the primary signals in response to bone injury, to trigger Bmp2 expression by mesenchymal progenitor cells (MSCs). Using a model of nonstabilized fracture healing in transgenic 5′Bmp2BAC mice we determined that Bmp2 expression appears in close association with hypoxic tissue and hematoma during the early phases of fracture healing. In addition, BMP2 expression is induced when human periosteum explants are exposed to hypoxia ex vivo. Transient interference of hypoxia signaling in vivo with PX-12, a thioredoxin inhibitor, results in reduced Bmp2 expression, impaired fracture callus formation and atrophic-like nonunion by a HIF-1α independent mechanism. In isolated human periosteum-derived MSCs, BMP2 expression could be induced with the addition of platelets concentrate lysate but not with hypoxia treatment, confirming HIF-1α-independent BMP2 expression. Interestingly, in isolated human periosteum-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells, inhibition of BMP2 expression by PX-12 is accomplished only under hypoxic conditions seemingly through dis-regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. In conclusion, we provide evidence of a molecular mechanism of hypoxia-dependent BMP2 expression in MSCs where interference with ROS homeostasis specifies fracture nonunion-like appearance in vivo through inhibition of Bmp2 expression.
Concise Review: Application of In Vitro Transcribed Messenger RNA for Cellular Engineering and Reprogramming: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Steinle Heidrun , Behring Andreas , Schlensak Christian , Wendel Hans Peter , Avci-Adali Meltem
Published: June 2016

Several diseases are caused by missing or defective synthesis of proteins due to genetic or acquired disorders. In recent years, in vitro transcribed (IVT) messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapy for de novo protein expression in cells has increased in importance. Thereby, desired proteins can be produced in cells by exogenous delivery of IVT mRNA, which does not integrate into the host genome and results in transient production of target proteins. Due to the lack of genomic integration, the risk of mutation and tumor development is minimized. Different approaches using IVT mRNA have been applied to alter the expression profiles of cells by the production of proteins. IVT mRNAs encoding transcription factors have led to the highly efficient induction of pluripotency in somatic cells and generated induced pluripotent stem cells that are free of viral vector components. Furthermore, specific IVT mRNA cocktails containing more than one specific IVT mRNA can be used to directly induce the differentiation into a desired cell type. In theory, every desired mRNA can be produced in vitro and used to enable extrinsic biosynthesis of target proteins in each cell type. Cells can be engineered by IVT mRNA to express antigens on dendritic cells for vaccination and tumor treatment, surface receptors on stem cells for increased homing to distinct areas, and to produce industrial grade human growth factors. In this review, we focus on the progress and challenges in mRNA-based cell engineering approaches.
Concise Review: One Stone for Multiple Birds: Generating Universally Compatible Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Zheng Dejin , Wang Xiaofang , Xu Ren-He
Published: June 2016

With ongoing clinical trials, human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have shown substantial potential for regenerative medicine. However, due to the mismatch of human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) between hESC-derived allografts and recipients, immunosuppressant regimens must be used to prevent immune rejection of the grafts. Considerable efforts have been devoted to overcoming this hurdle via the derivation and banking of human nuclear transfer ESCs, parthenogenetic ESCs, and induced pluripotent stem cells. However, ethical and safety concerns remain, hindering the application of these types of pluripotent cells. Other approaches have recently been explored to generate universally compatible hESCs through the silencing or deletion of HLAs or genes essential for HLA expression, including β-2-microglobulin and class-II MHC transactivator, as well as the induction of immunosuppression via the ectopic expression of non-classical HLAs (e.g., HLA-E and -G), cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 fused with immunoglobulin, and programmed death ligand-1. In this review, we introduce developments in this line of research and discuss strategies to reduce the tumorigenic concerns regarding hESCs, especially after they acquire the capability to escape immune surveillance. Stem Cells  2016;34:2269–2275
Advances in Transition‐Metal‐Catalysed Alkyne Hydroarylations
Authors: Biffis Andrea , Tubaro Cristina , Baron Marco
Published: June 2016

We present herein a personal account of our achievements in the development of novel catalytic systems based on late‐transition‐metal complexes for the hydroarylation of alkynes. In particular, our targets were intermolecular hydroarylation reactions with arene or heteroarene substrates devoid of directing groups. We have shown that complexes of palladium, platinum or gold with N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands can be particularly useful catalysts for this reaction; the NHC ligand imparts greater stability to the complex and renders the catalytic system more productive. Furthermore, we have identified promoters and reaction media that allow to significantly improve the catalytic activity under mild conditions, to control the reaction chemoselectivity and to steer it towards more complex products; thus making this reaction considerably more attractive for the synthetic chemist.

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Carbon Monoxide: A Mild and Efficient Reducing Agent towards Atomically Precise Gold Nanoclusters
Authors: Chen Tiankai , Xie Jianping
Published: June 2016

In recent years, thiolate‐protected gold nanoclusters (or thiolated Au NCs) with a core size below 2 nm have emerged as a new class of multifunctional nanoparticles because of their unique molecular‐like properties and the potential to use these properties in many practical applications. A general synthesis of Au NCs may involve the use of a strong reducing agent (e.g., sodium borohydride (NaBH4)), which often leads to the formation of mix‐sized Au NCs if no delicate control is applied. To obtain atomically precise Au NCs, additional physical or chemical selection processes (e.g., high‐resolution separation or size‐focusing) are required, which are difficult to be scaled up or are limited to only thermodynamically stable products. By introducing a milder reducing agent – carbon monoxide (CO) – both stable and metastable thiolated Au NCs, including Au10–12, Au15, Au18, Au25, and Au29, can be synthesized in a one‐pot manner. In addition, CO reduction also enables the synthesis of a highly luminescent Au22(SG)18 NC. Furthermore, the intermediates of Au NC growth can be tracked in the CO‐reduction system due to the mild and readily stoppable nature of CO reduction. Therefore, the use of CO reduction may bring new flexibilities in designing synthetic strategies and understanding the growth mechanism of atomically precise Au NCs, which could contribute to a better design of functional Au NCs, further paving their way towards practical applications in various fields.