bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computer Programming Competencies Required by Computer Education Graduates for Sustainable Employment
Authors: Ekpereka Ibezim, Nnenna , Chibuogwu Chukwujekwu Ijeoma
Published: April 2017

This study identified the computer programming competencies required of computer education graduates for sustainable employment in Enugu metropolis, Enugu state, Nigeria. Three research questions and one null hypothesis guided the study. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The population for the study was 95, which comprised of 74 computing lecturers, 6 IT programming instructors, and 15 programmers. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The instrument was face validated by three experts in computer programming. Cronbach Alpha statistic was used to determine the internal consistency of the instrument, yielding reliability co-efficient of 0.83. Mean and Standard deviation were used to answer the research questions while ANOVA statistic was used to test the hypothesis. The study found out that 25 hard competencies, 18 business competencies, and 19 soft competencies are required by computer education graduates for sustainable employment in programming jobs. These competencies identified include among others, ability to code, test and debug programs quickly and efficiently; ability to explore and evaluate application design considerations for multiple technologies, ability to analyze users’ needs and specifications then design, test, and develop software to meet those needs, ability to recommend software upgrades for clients’ existing programs and systems, proficiency in data mining, confidence in personal ideas but open to feedbacks, adapting to changes while remaining focused on project with topmost priority and good sense of judgment. It was therefore recommended that the identified competencies should be incorporated in the curriculum for training Computer Education graduates for sustainability in programming jobs.
Fabricating and robust artificial neural network modeling nanoscale polyurethane fiber using electrospinning method
Authors: Hosaini‐Alvand Ebrahim , Mirshekar Hamed , Taghi Khorasani Mohammad , Parvazinia Mahmoud , Joorabloo Alireza
Published: April 2017

With regard to the fact that currently there is no comprehensive method to predict diameter of polyurethane/solvent fiber from electrospinning, in this study, diameter prediction of polyurethane/solvent fiber was conducted using neural networks and an error of 166 nm was observed. This error shows that artificial neural networks (ANNs) can predict diameter of electrospinning polyurethane fibers well. Then, considering weak repeatability nature of electrospinning in fabricating fibers with desired diameter, least mean square is used to improve stability of neural network model that shows an error of 113 nm, which represented better results compared to common ANN. To investigate the effect of each one of parameters affecting fiber diameter, sensitivity analysis was conducted. Along with this predicting model, sensitivity analysis can be used to reduce parameters space before conducting future studies. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45116.
Reproductive Morphology of Oarfish (Regalecus russellii)
Authors: Forsgren Kristy L. , Jamal Homam , Barrios Andrew , Paig‐Tran E.W. Misty
Published: April 2017

Reproduction is a critical aspect of understanding the biology of fishes. Relatively little is known about oarfish (Regalecus russellii) reproduction; however, strandings of dead animals have provided a rare opportunity to investigate the gonadal morphology of four fish: two females and two males. A female collected in June 2015 (4.32 m TL) had bifurcated ovaries 2.14 m in length and 2.14 kg. The gonadosomatic index (GSI) was 11.8% and the fish was determined to be spawning capable/spawning reproductive phase. A female that stranded in Sept. 2015 (5.20 m TL) had bifurcated ovaries 1.43 m in length and 1.28 kg with a GSI of 1.55%. The Sept. female was in a regressing phase of reproduction. A male collected in Aug. 2015 (4.30 m TL) had 64.7‐cm‐long testes that weighed 40.1 g. The GSI was 0.05% representing a regressing phase of reproduction. A male collected in Nov. 2015 (4.10 m TL) had testes 104.0 cm in length and 467.0 g with a GSI of 0.59%. The Nov. male was in a spawning/spawning capable phase of reproduction. We described ovarian follicles and sperm cells based on size classes and cytological characteristics. We concluded that oarfish are likely batch spawners that undergo periods of regression after a spawning event or season. While this study is not complete with respect to the annual reproductive cycle of oarfish, it markedly contributes to our overall understanding of this rare, mesopelagic fish. Anat Rec, 300:1695–1704, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Four New Nanaomycins Produced by Streptomyces hebeiensis Derived from Lichen
Authors: Liu Chengbin , Jiang Yi , Lei Hui , Chen Xiu , Ma Qingjuan , Han Li , Huang Xueshi
Published: April 2017

Four new nanaomycins (1 – 4), together with two known compounds, nanaomycin αA (5) and nanaomycin βA (6) were isolated from a fermentation broth of Streptomyces hebeiensis derived from lichen. The structures of the new nanaomycins 1 – 4 were established using comprehensive NMR spectroscopic data analysis as well as UV, IR, and MS data. The antimicrobial activities of 1 – 6 were evaluated against Gram‐positive bacteria and fungus. Compounds 5 and 6 showed antimicrobial activities against the test microorganisms, while 1 – 4 were inactive at 100 μg/ml.
On the Fine‐Tuning of the Excited‐State Intramolecular Proton Transfer (ESIPT) Process in 2‐(2′‐Hydroxybenzofuran)benzazole (HBBX) Dyes
Authors: Heyer Elodie , Benelhadj Karima , Budzák Simon , Jacquemin Denis , Massue Julien , Ulrich Gilles
Published: April 2017

Herein, a full investigation of the optical properties and first‐principles calculations of a large series of original 2‐(2′‐hydroxybenzofuran)benzazole (HBBX) dyes is described. The electronic substitution on the π‐conjugated core of the fluorophores and the nature of the heteroatom (O, S, N) was varied extensively to assess the necessary parameters to trigger a partial frustration of the excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) process, which results in the emission of both tautomers, that is, enol and keto (E* and K*). The optical properties, studied in solution and in the solid state, revealed the appearance of either an intense single K* or a dual E*/K* emission; a feature that is highly dependent on the electronic substitution (donating or accepting), the heteroelement, and the close environment. Subtle modifications of these parameters allowed the establishment of structure–property relationships that were successfully rationalized by first‐principles calculations. In particular, the E*/K* emission intensity ratio was shown to be directly related to the free energies of the two emissive tautomers in the excited state.
Removal of nickel ions on residue of alginate extraction from Sargassum filipendula seaweed in packed bed
Authors: Moino Bárbara P. , Costa Camila S. D. , da Silva Meuris G. C. , Vieira Melissa G. A.
Published: April 2017

The residue of the alginate extraction, which has been shown as a good alternative material in the removal of toxic metals from industrial wastewater, is little explored as a biosorbent material. This study evaluated the removal of nickel ion in a fixed bed onto the residue of alginate extraction from Sargassum filipendula seaweed. The biosorption process in a dynamic fixed‐bed system evaluated the influence of flow rate and feed concentration, by mass transfer zone (MTZ) and the total removal percentage (%Remt). In order to assess the metal recovery potential and the lifetime of the column, two cycles of adsorption/desorption were performed. The continuous adsorption process was simulated using different dynamic models such as Bohart and Adams, Clark, Thomas, Yan et al., and Yoon and Nelson models. The best predictive model was Yan et al. Techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray (SEM‐EDX), helium gas picnometry, mercury porosimetry, and N2 physisorption (BET) were performed in order to compare the residue before adsorption with the material after the process. The results showed that the residue can be used to treat toxic metal contaminated effluents by biosorption processes efficiently.
Enhanced polymer flooding using a novel nano‐scale smart polymer: Experimental investigation
Authors: Ashrafizadeh Marjan , S. A. Ahmad Ramazani , Sadeghnejad Saeid
Published: April 2017

Polymer flooding is a well‐known commercial method among enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods. Despite its successful development, this method could still be improved considerably by utilizing new polymeric materials and systems. The main objective of this study is the implementation of smart‐covered polymer particles (SCPP) prepared by multistep inverse emulsion polymerization, to improve polymer flooding efficiency. Successive to the average molecular weight determination of the core polymer using the dilute solution method, the dissolution behaviour of SCPPs is examined at reservoir temperature in a specific setup. In addition to investigating the efficiency of SCPP flooding, polymer flooding experiments in a micromodel setup are examined. The flooding efficiency of conventional polyacrylamide and the newly developed SCPP solutions are compared with the water flooding process. Our results provide new insight into the ability of coated polymers to enhance the recovery efficiency of polymer flooding processes.
Improving Gold (Bio)Leaching Efficiency Through Pretreatment Using Hydrogen Peroxide Assisted Sulfuric Acid
Authors: Das Subhabrata , Ting Yen‐Peng
Published: April 2017

Compared to conventional recycling methods, the recovery of gold from electronic waste (e‐waste) using bioleaching is more environmentally friendly and sustainable. E‐wastes contain large amounts of copper that forms stable complexes with cyanide and competes with gold during bioleaching. To overcome this, e‐waste from printed circuit boards was pretreated with sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide to remove copper from the waste. The kinetics of the copper removal process was examined by varying sulfuric acid concentrations, hydrogen peroxide concentrations, e‐waste particle sizes, and temperature. Both sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide showed a significant effect on pretreatment; copper removal from the e‐waste was found to fit the diffusion‐controlled model. Under optimal pretreatment conditions (5 M H2SO4, 5 M H2O2, T = 313 K, and do = 50–75 μm, 85.5% of copper was removed from the e‐waste. Two‐step bioleaching (where e‐waste was added only after the bacteria has grown and produced significant lixiviant) and spent medium leaching (i.e., using cell‐free medium containing the lixiviant) were examined using the metabolically engineered Chromobacterium violaceum pBAD strain for extraction of gold from e‐waste. Spent medium leaching achieved a gold recovery of 36.4% as compared to 24.7% under two‐step bioleaching for pretreated e‐waste.
Effect of US Food and Drug Administration's Cardiovascular Safety Guidance on Diabetes Drug Development
Authors: Hwang TJ , Franklin JM , Kesselheim AS
Published: April 2017

In 2008, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued guidance on the need for cardiovascular outcome trials to assess the safety of new diabetes medications. Using two large commercial databases, we evaluated the effect of the FDA's cardiovascular safety guidance on drug development for type 2 diabetes as well as a comparison group of drugs intended to treat other alimentary and metabolic conditions. The FDA's guidance was associated with a 31% differential decrease in the rate of diabetes drugs entering phase II trials, but the remaining drugs were significantly more likely to target novel biological pathways (72% of drugs had novel mechanisms after the guidance vs. 49% before the guidance). No differential changes were observed for phase I and phase III trials. There was no measurable improvement during the study period in glycemic efficacy among investigational products entering phase III trials. This research highlights how regulatory actions can impact pharmaceutical innovation.
Electronic Medical Record‐Integrated Pharmacogenomics and Related Clinical Decision Support Concepts
Authors: Caraballo PJ , Bielinski SJ , St. Sauver JL , Weinshilboum RM
Published: April 2017

Advances in pharmacogenomics (PGx) have the potential to transform healthcare by allowing precision medicine to become a reality. However, PGx knowledge is new, complex, and evolving, and relying on the cognition of clinicians alone is insufficient for clinical implementation. Integrating clinical decision support (CDS) tools in the electronic health record (EHR) is critical for translating PGx into clinical practice. Herein, we review current strategies to implement PGx using EHR‐CDS functionalities.
Blue‐Emitting Electron‐Donor/Acceptor Dyads for Naked‐Eye Fluorescence Detection of Singlet Oxygen
Authors: Kohara Reiko , Yuyama Ken‐ichi , Shigeri Yasushi , Biju Vasudevanpillai
Published: April 2017

Singlet oxygen (1O2) and other reactive oxygen species receive great attention in chemistry and biology. Fluorescence sensing is one of the most promising and widely used techniques in the detection of 1O2. Nonetheless, the selectivity and sensitivity of 1O2 detection are highly depended on the structure, absorption band, stability and emission color of the fluorogenic sensor. We introduce novel and simple intramolecular electron donor–acceptor dyads that selectively and sensitively emit intense blue light in response to 1O2. The systematic changes in the emission intensity of the sensors allow detection of 1O2 by the naked‐eye. Furthermore, the blue‐shifted absorption and blue emission bands of the sensors ensure selective excitation of common photosensitizers using visible light. The sensors are synthesized by a simple and single‐step reaction, which when combined with the exceptionally high stability of the sensors against visible‐light irradiation, makes them promising tools for 1O2 detection in chemistry, biochemistry, materials science and the life sciences.
The role of small GTPases of the Rho/Rac family in TGF‐β‐induced EMT and cell motility in cancer
Authors: Ungefroren Hendrik , Witte David , Lehnert Hendrik
Published: April 2017

This article focuses on the role of Rho family GTPases, particularly Rac1 and Rac1b in TGF‐β‐induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and EMT‐associated responses such as cell migration, invasion, and metastasis in cancer. EMT is considered a prerequisite for cells to adopt a motile and invasive phenotype and eventually become metastatic. A major regulator of EMT and metastasis in cancer is TGF‐β, and its specific functions on tumor cells are mediated beside Smad proteins and mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) by small GTPases of the Rho/Rac1 family. Available data point to extensive signaling crosstalk between TGF‐β and various Rho GTPases, and in particular a synergistic role of Rho and Rac1 during EMT and cell motility in normal and neoplastic epithelial cells. In contrast, the Rac1‐related isoform, Rac1b, emerges as an endogenous inhibitor of Rac1 in TGF‐β signaling, at least in pancreatic carcinoma cells. Given the tumor‐promoting role of TGF‐β in late‐stage carcinomas and the intimate crosstalk of Rho/Rac1/Rac1b and TGF‐β signaling in various tumor cell responses, targeting specific Rho GTPases may allow for selective interference with prooncogenic TGF‐β responses to aid in anticancer treatments. Developmental Dynamics 247:451–461, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Historical and projected trends in landscape drivers affecting carbon dynamics in Alaska
Authors: Pastick Neal J. , Duffy Paul , Genet Hélène , Rupp T. Scott , Wylie Bruce K. , Johnson Kristofer D. , Jorgenson M. Torre , Bliss Norman , McGuire A. David , Jafarov Elchin E. , Knight Joseph F.
Published: April 2017

Modern climate change in Alaska has resulted in widespread thawing of permafrost, increased fire activity, and extensive changes in vegetation characteristics that have significant consequences for socioecological systems. Despite observations of the heightened sensitivity of these systems to change, there has not been a comprehensive assessment of factors that drive ecosystem changes throughout Alaska. Here we present research that improves our understanding of the main drivers of the spatiotemporal patterns of carbon dynamics using in situ observations, remote sensing data, and an array of modeling techniques. In the last 60 yr, Alaska has seen a large increase in mean annual air temperature (1.7°C), with the greatest warming occurring over winter and spring. Warming trends are projected to continue throughout the 21st century and will likely result in landscape‐level changes to ecosystem structure and function. Wetlands, mainly bogs and fens, which are currently estimated to cover 12.5% of the landscape, strongly influence exchange of methane between Alaska's ecosystems and the atmosphere and are expected to be affected by thawing permafrost and shifts in hydrology. Simulations suggest the current proportion of near‐surface (within 1 m) and deep (within 5 m) permafrost extent will be reduced by 9–74% and 33–55% by the end of the 21st century, respectively. Since 2000, an average of 678 595 ha/yr was burned, more than twice the annual average during 1950–1999. The largest increase in fire activity is projected for the boreal forest, which could result in a reduction in late‐successional spruce forest (8–44%) and an increase in early‐successional deciduous forest (25–113%) that would mediate future fire activity and weaken permafrost stability in the region. Climate warming will also affect vegetation communities across arctic regions, where the coverage of deciduous forest could increase (223–620%), shrub tundra may increase (4–21%), and graminoid tundra might decrease (10–24%). This study sheds light on the sensitivity of Alaska's ecosystems to change that has the potential to significantly affect local and regional carbon balance, but more research is needed to improve estimates of land‐surface and subsurface properties, and to better account for ecosystem dynamics affected by a myriad of biophysical factors and interactions.
Mapping and exploring variation in post‐fire vegetation recovery following mixed severity wildfire using airborne LiDAR
Authors: Gordon Christopher E. , Price Owen F. , Tasker Elizabeth M.
Published: April 2017

There is a public perception that large high‐severity wildfires decrease biodiversity and increase fire hazard by homogenizing vegetation composition and increasing the cover of mid‐story vegetation. But a growing literature suggests that vegetation responses are nuanced. LiDARtechnology provides a promising remote sensing tool to test hypotheses about post‐fire vegetation regrowth because vegetation cover can be quantified within different height strata at fine scales over large areas. We assess the usefulness of airborne LiDARdata for measuring post‐fire mid‐story vegetation regrowth over a range of spatial resolutions (10 × 10 m, 30 × 30 m, 50 × 50 m, 100 × 100 m cell size) and investigate the effect of fire severity on regrowth amount and spatial pattern following a mixed severity wildfire in Warrumbungle National Park, Australia. We predicted that recovery would be more vigorous in areas of high fire severity, because park managers observed dense post‐fire regrowth in these areas. Moderate to strong positive associations were observed between LiDARand field surveys of mid‐story vegetation cover between 0.5–3.0 m. Thus our LiDARsurvey was an apt representation of on‐ground vegetation cover. LiDAR‐derived mid‐story vegetation cover was 22–40% lower in areas of low and moderate than high fire severity. Linear mixed‐effects models showed that fire severity was among the strongest biophysical predictors of mid‐story vegetation cover irrespective of spatial resolution. However much of the variance associated with these models was unexplained, presumably because soil seed banks varied at finer scales than our LiDARmaps. Dense patches of mid‐story vegetation regrowth were small (median size 0.01 ha) and evenly distributed between areas of low, moderate and high fire severity, demonstrating that high‐severity fires do not homogenize vegetation cover. Our results are relevant for ecosystem conservation and fire management because they: indicate that native vegetation are responsive and resilient to high‐severity fire, and show the usefulness of remote sensing tools such as LiDARto monitor post‐fire vegetation recovery over large areas in situ.
Crystal Structure and Magnetic and Magnetocaloric Properties of Cobalt Hydroxychlorides Co2(OH)4–xClx
Authors: Song Sang‐Hoon , Alonso José Antonio , Fernández‐Díaz María Teresa , Lim Sang Ho
Published: April 2017

A series of isostructural cobalt hydroxychloride salts with the formula Co2(OH)4–xClx were fabricated by using a precipitation method from aqueous solutions of CoCl2 and NaOH with different mixing ratios. The crystal structure was resolved from neutron powder diffraction data, including the location of H atoms of the hydroxide groups. The structure (space group R3m) consists of an open network of edge‐sharing CoO6 and CoO6–2xCl2x octahedra, forming intercrossed 1D channels where the hydrogen atoms reside. Unusually high values of the magnetic entropy change were observed for all samples, probably due to the geometrically frustrated magnetic structure; for example, the magnetic entropy change was 8.3 J/kg K for the sample with Co/Cl > 2.5 at 10 K in a magnetic field change of 20 kOe.
The natural history of primary sclerosing cholangitis in 781 children: A multicenter, international collaboration
Authors: Deneau Mark R. , El‐Matary Wael , Valentino Pamela L. , Abdou Reham , Alqoaer Khaled , Amin Mansi , Amir Achiya Z. , Auth Marcus , Bazerbachi Fateh , Broderick Annemarie , Chan Albert , Cotter Jillian , Doan Sylvia , El‐Youssef Mounif , Ferrari Federica , Furuya Katryn N. , Gottrand Madeleine , Gottrand Frederic , Gupta Nitika , Homan Matjaz , Kamath Binita M. , Kim Kyung Mo , Kolho Kaija‐Leena , Konidari Anastasia , Koot Bart , Iorio Raffaele , Ledder Oren , Mack Cara , Martinez Mercedes , Miloh Tamir , Mohan Parvathi , O'Cathain Niamh , Papadopoulou Alexandra , Ricciuto Amanda , Saubermann Lawrence , Sathya Pushpa , Shteyer Eyal , Smolka Vratislav , Tanaka Atushi , Varier Raghu , Venkat Veena , Vitola Bernadette , Vos Miriam B. , Woynarowski Marek , Yap Jason , Jensen M. Kyle
Published: April 2017

There are limited data on the natural history of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) in children. We aimed to describe the disease characteristics and long‐term outcomes of pediatric PSC. We retrospectively collected all pediatric PSC cases from 36 participating institutions and conducted a survival analysis from the date of PSC diagnosis to dates of diagnosis of portal hypertensive or biliary complications, cholangiocarcinoma, liver transplantation, or death. We analyzed patients grouped by disease phenotype and laboratory studies at diagnosis to identify objective predictors of long‐term outcome. We identified 781 patients, median age 12 years, with 4,277 person‐years of follow‐up; 33% with autoimmune hepatitis, 76% with inflammatory bowel disease, and 13% with small duct PSC. Portal hypertensive and biliary complications developed in 38% and 25%, respectively, after 10 years of disease. Once these complications developed, median survival with native liver was 2.8 and 3.5 years, respectively. Cholangiocarcinoma occurred in 1%. Overall event‐free survival was 70% at 5 years and 53% at 10 years. Patient groups with the most elevated total bilirubin, gamma‐glutamyltransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐platelet ratio index at diagnosis had the worst outcomes. In multivariate analysis PSC–inflammatory bowel disease and small duct phenotypes were associated with favorable prognosis (hazard ratios 0.6, 95% confidence interval 0.5‐0.9, and 0.7, 95% confidence interval 0.5‐0.96, respectively). Age, gender, and autoimmune hepatitis overlap did not impact long‐term outcome. Conclusion: PSC has a chronic, progressive course in children, and nearly half of patients develop an adverse liver outcome after 10 years of disease; elevations in bilirubin, gamma‐glutamyltransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐platelet ratio index at diagnosis can identify patients at highest risk; small duct PSC and PSC–inflammatory bowel disease are more favorable disease phenotypes. (Hepatology 2017;66:518–527).
Cytocompatibility assessment of Ti‐Zr‐Pd‐Si‐(Nb) alloys with low Young's modulus, increased hardness, and enhanced osteoblast differentiation for biomedical applications
Authors: Blanquer Andreu , Musilkova Jana , Barrios Leonardo , Ibáñez Elena , Vandrovcova Marta , Pellicer Eva , Sort Jordi , Bacakova Lucie , Nogués Carme
Published: April 2017

Ti‐based alloys have increased importance for biomedical applications due to their excellent properties. In particular, the two recently developed TiZrPdSi(Nb) alloys, with a predominant β‐Ti phase microstructure, have good mechanical properties, such as a relatively low Young's modulus and high hardness. In the present work, the cytocompatibility of these alloys was assessed using human osteoblast‐like Saos‐2 cells. Cells grown on the alloys showed larger spreading areas (more than twice) and higher vinculin content (nearly 40% increment) when compared with cells grown on glass control surfaces, indicating a better cell adhesion. Moreover, cell proliferation was 18% higher for cells growing on both alloys than for cells growing on glass and polystyrene control surfaces. Osteogenic differentiation was evaluated by quantifying the expression of four osteogenic genes (osteonectin, osteocalcin, osteopontin, and bone sialoprotein), the presence of three osteogenic proteins (alkaline phosphatase, collagen I, and osteocalcin) and the activity of alkaline phosphatase at different time‐points. The results demonstrated that TiZrPdSi and TiZrPdSiNb alloys enhance osteoblast differentiation, and that cells grown on TiZrPdSiNb alloy present higher levels of some late osteogenic markers during the first week in culture. These results suggest that the TiZrPdSi(Nb) alloys can be considered as excellent candidates for orthopaedical uses. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 834–842, 2018.
Retracted: Suppression of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Expression by Antisense Oligonucleotides Inhibits Neural Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation in Rat models With Focal Cerebral Infarction
Authors: Li Chao , Che Li‐He , Shi Lei , Yu Jin‐Lu
Published: April 2017

This study is designed to investigate the role of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) antisense oligonucleotide (ASODN) on the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) in rat models with focal cerebral infarction (CI). Seventy‐five Sprague‐Dawlay (SD) rats were randomly divided into the control, sham, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), MCAO + nonsense oligonucleotide (NODN), and MCAO + ASODN groups. Proliferation and differentiation of NSCs were detected by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. ELISA was performed to detect the expressions of endogenous factors that include insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1), glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), transforming growth factor‐α1 (TGF‐α1), bFGF, and nerve growth factor (NGF). Results show significant neurological deficits and focal CI in the MCAO and MCAO + NODN groups. An obvious increase of NSC proliferation, reactive proliferation of astrocytes in CI areas, differentiation of newly proliferated NSCs into mature neuronal cells, and expressions of endogenous growth factors exhibited in the MCAO, MCAO + NODN and MCAO + ASODN groups. Compared to the MCAO and MACO + NODN groups, the MCAO + ASODN group showed a significant decrease NSC proliferation and differentiation in CI areas as well as decrease expressions of endogenous growth factors. These findings may offer insight to help us understand more as to how bFGF ASODN can effectively suppress the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs. These findings are expected to help contribute to research for new targets in the treatment of focal CI. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3875–3882, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Non‐Peptide Vasopressin V1b Receptor Antagonist, SSR149415, Ameliorates Spermatogenesis Function in a Mouse Model of Chronic Social Defeat Stress
Authors: Wang Bin , Zhou Jian , Zhuang Yan‐Yan , Wang Liang‐Liang , Pu Jin‐Xian , Huang Yu‐Hua , Xia Fei , Lv Jin‐Xing
Published: April 2017

To determine the effects of SSR149415 on testis and spermatogenesis in male mice subjected to chronic social defeat stress, C57BL/6 male mice were divided into two groups: Control and Stress. Then Stress group was subdivided into four subgroups administered water, SSR149415 (1 mg/kg/day), SSR149415 (10 mg/kg/day), SSR149415 (30 mg/kg/day), respectively. The behavioral alterations revealed by social interaction test and open field test were measured. The physical indices, including body weight and gonad weight (testis and epididymis) as well as testis/body weight and cauda epididymis/body weight were detected. Serum hormones, including testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) were determined. Sperm count and abnormality as well as testicular histology structure were assessed. The germ cells apoptosis were also evaluated. Chronic social defeat stress‐induced behavioral abnormality, as well as gonad atrophy (testis and epididymis) was significantly alleviated in stressed male mice exposed to SSR149415. Regressed serum testosterone levels and elevated serum FSH and LH levels exhibited by stressed male mice were observably reversed following SSR149415 administration. Chronic social defeat stress‐induced damage in testicular histology structure and semen quality were also improved after SSR149415 administration. In addition, SSR149415 significantly reversed chronic social defeat stress‐induced germ cells apoptosis. Overall, we provide clear evidence indicating the amelioration of chronic social defeat stress‐induced behavioral abnormality and testicular dysfunction via SSR149415, promoting the development of drug‐directed therapy against this disease. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3891–3898, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Runt‐Related Transcription Factor 2 (Runx2) Is Responsible for Galectin‐3 Overexpression in Human Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Kaptan Engin , Sancar Bas Serap , Sancakli Aylin , Aktas Hatice Gumushan , Bayrak Bertan Boran , Yanardag Refiye , Bolkent Sehnaz
Published: April 2017

Runx2 promotes metastatic ability of cancer cells by directly activating some of the mediators regarding malignancy. Galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) extensively expressed in normal and transformed cells and it is responsible for many cellular processes. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether there is any relationship between runx2 transcription factor and regulation of galectin‐3 expression in different human thyroid carcinoma cell lines. To show effects of runx2 transcription factor on gal‐3 expression, we developed runx2 knockdown model in the thyroid carcinoma cell lines; anaplastic 8505C and 8305C and, papillary TPC‐1 and follicular FTC‐133 by using siRNA transfection. We analyzed the protein expressions and mRNA levels of gal‐3 and MMP2/9 in the runx2‐silenced cell lines using Western blotting, qPCR, and fluorescent microscopy. Our results showed that mRNA expression levels of gal‐3 and MMP2/9 were downregulated in runx2‐silenced cell lines. In this investigation, we revealed that regulation of gal‐3 expression was strongly correlated with runx2 transcription factor in human thyroid carcinoma. Considering the contribution of human gal‐3 in collaboration with MMP2/9 to the malignant characters of many cancers, regulation of their expressions through runx2 seems like one of the key regulatory mechanism for malignant potential of human thyroid carcinoma. Accordingly, runx2 transcription factor inhibitors can be a potential target in order to prevent gal‐3 mediated malignancy of human thyroid carcinoma. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3911–3919, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Valve mediated hemodynamics and their association with distal ascending aortic diameter in bicuspid aortic valve subjects
Authors: Raghav Vrishank , Barker Alex J. , Mangiameli Daniel , Mirabella Lucia , Markl Michael , Yoganathan Ajit P.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Valve mediated hemodynamics have been postulated to contribute to pathology of the ascending aorta (AAo). The objective of this study is to assess the association of aortic valve morphology and hemodynamics with downstream AAo size in subjects with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) disease.

Materials and Methods

Four‐dimensional flow MRI at 1.5 or 3 Tesla was used to evaluate the hemodynamics in the proximal AAo of 52 subjects: size‐matched controls with tricuspid aortic valves (n = 24, mid ascending aorta [MAA] diameter = 38.0 ± 4.9 mm) and BAV patients with aortic dilatation (n = 14 right and left coronary leaflet fusion [RL]‐BAV, MAA diameter = 38.1 ± 5.3 mm; n = 14 right and noncoronary leaflet fusion [RN]‐BAV, MAA diameter = 36.5 ± 6.6 mm). A validated semi‐automated technique was used to evaluate hemodynamic metrics (flow angle, flow displacement, and jet quadrant) and valve morphology (orifice circularity) for all subjects. Regression analysis of these metrics to AAo diameter was performed.

Results

RN‐BAV subjects displayed a stronger correlation between hemodynamic metrics in the proximal AAo with diameter in the distal AAo compared with size‐matched tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) controls and RL‐BAV subjects. The distal AAo diameter was found to be strongly correlated to the upstream flow displacement (R2adjusted = 0.75) and flow angle (R2adjusted = 0.66) measured at the sino‐tubular junction (STJ). Orifice circularity was also strongly correlated (R2adjusted = 0.53) to the distal AAo diameter in RN‐BAV subjects. For TAV controls and RL‐BAV subjects, correlations were weaker (R2adjusted < 0.2).

Conclusion

Hemodynamics in the STJ were strongly correlated to the distal AAo diameter for the RN‐BAV subjects. Hemodynamic metrics were more strongly correlated to the downstream aortic size when compared with valve morphology metrics.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:246–254.
Concordance of HPV‐DNA in cervical dysplasia or genital warts in women and their monogamous long‐term male partners
Authors: Rob Filip , Tachezy Ruth , Pichlík Tomáš , Škapa Petr , Rob Lukáš , Hamšíková Eva , Šmahelová Jana , Hercogová Jana
Published: April 2017

Transmission of human papillomavirus (HPV) is a premise for development of cervical dysplasia and genital warts (GWs). This cross‐sectional study assesses concordance of HPV types present in GWs or cervical dysplasia in women and genital infection of their monogamous male partners in conjunction with seroprevalence of HPV‐6, ‐11, ‐16, and ‐18 antibodies. Blood was taken from both women and men, as well a smear of the urogenital area of men. HPV DNA detection in women was done in fixed paraffin embedded tissues under histological control. Of 143 couples who agreed to participate in the study, 68 met inclusion criteria. Type‐specific concordance was observed in 32.5% (13/40) of couples in which women had genital warts and in 32.1% (9/28) of couples in which women had cervical dysplasia. In multivariate analysis only smoking in women was associated with concordance (P < 0.05). Prevalence of HPV‐specific antibodies was high in male partners, but was not associated with presence of the same HPV type on their genitals. The same type‐specific HPV antibodies were detected in 81.8% of men in couples with HPV‐6 concordant genital warts, but only in 14.3% of men in couples with HPV‐16 concordant cervical dysplasia (P < 0.01). These results suggest that type‐specific HPV concordance in genital warts and cervical dysplasia lesions of women and genital infection of their male partners is common and similar. Higher seroconversion in couples with HPV‐6 concordant genital warts compared with couples with HPV‐16 concordant cervical dysplasia may be explained by viral load exposure.
Genotypic diversity of anogenital human papillomavirus in women attending cervical cancer screening in Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Dube Mandishora Racheal S. , Christiansen Irene K. , Chin'ombe Nyasha , Duri Kerina , Ngara Bernard , Rounge Trine B. , Meisal Roger , Ambur Ole H. , Palefsky Joel M. , Stray‐Pedersen Babill , Chirenje Zvavahera M.
Published: April 2017

Although anogenital cancers have been on a gradual rise in developing countries in the past few decades, they have been understudied. The objective was to investigate genotypic diversity of anogenital HPV amongst women reporting for routine cervical cancer screening in Harare in Zimbabwe. A cross‐sectional study that enrolled 144 women ≥18 years from a cervical cancer‐screening clinic was performed. Each woman provided a self‐collected cervico‐vaginal swab (VS) and a clinician‐collected anal swab (CCAS). HIV testing was offered and cervical cytology was performed. Both VS and CCAS samples were HPV genotyped, using amplicon sequencing of the L1 gene region with Illumina technology. Mean age of the women was 39.9 (range 18‐83 years, SD ± 11.0). HPV prevalence was 72% (104/144) in VS and 48% (69/144) in CCAS. The most common genotypes detected in both VS and CCAS were HPV18, HPV52, and HPV16. Sixty two percent of the subjects had multiple genotypic HPV infections. The odds of being HPV‐positive among HIV‐infected women were higher than in HIV‐negative women in both the vagina and the anus (CCAS OR = 4.8; CI 2.4‐9.8,P < 0.001) and (VS OR = 2.9; CI 1.3‐6.4,P = 0.005). High HPV prevalence and diverse genotypes were detected in both the vagina and anus. Anal oncogenic HPV infection was common. HPV 52 was one of the most common oncogenic genotypes in both the vagina and anus. HIV co‐infection played a significant role in the prevalence of HPV. These data have implications for design of primary and secondary programs for prevention of anogenital cancer in Zimbabwe.
Acute flaccid paralysis surveillance in bosnia and herzegovina: Recent isolation of two sabin like type 2 poliovirus
Authors: Fontana Stefano , Buttinelli Gabriele , Fiore Stefano , Mulaomerovic Mirsada , Aćimović Jela , Amato Concetta , Delogu Roberto , Rezza Giovanni , Stefanelli Paola
Published: April 2017

The WHO Regional Commission for the Certification of Poliomyelitis Eradication has recently indicated Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) as a high risk country for transmission, following importation, of wild poliovirus (WPV) or circulating vaccine‐derived poliovirus (cVDPV). We analyzed data on Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance between 2007 to 2016, and the trend of polio immunization coverage in B&H. The majority of AFP cases was recorded in 2016 suggesting an enhancement of the AFP surveillance activities. However, the decline in the immunization coverage, around 74%, and the isolation of two Sabin‐like poliovirus type 2 strains, one of them close to a VDPV, require a particular attention in the area. Although B&H has successfully maintained its polio‐free status since 2002 several challenges need to be addressed.
Prediction of normal bone anatomy for the planning of corrective osteotomies of malunited forearm bones using a three‐dimensional statistical shape model
Authors: Mauler Flavien , Langguth Christoph , Schweizer Andreas , Vlachopoulos Lazaros , Gass Tobias , Lüthi Marcel , Fürnstahl Philipp
Published: April 2017

Corrective osteotomies of the forearm based on 3D computer simulation using contralateral anatomy as a reconstruction template is an approved method. Limitations are existing considerable differences between left and right forearms, and that a healthy contralateral anatomy is required. We evaluated if a computer model, not relying on the contralateral anatomy, may replace the current method by predicting the pre‐traumatic healthy shape. A statistical shape model (SSM) was generated from a set of 59 CT scans of healthy forearms, encoding the normal anatomical variations. Three different configurations were simulated to predict the pre‐traumatic shape with the SSM (cross‐validation). In the first two, only the distal or proximal 50% of the radius were considered as pathological. In a third configuration, the entire radius was assumed to be pathological, only the ulna being intact. Corresponding experiments were performed with the ulna. Accuracy of the prediction was assessed by comparing the predicted bone with the healthy model. For the radius, mean rotation accuracy of the prediction between 2.9 ± 2.2° and 4.0 ± 3.1° in pronation/supination, 0.4 ± 0.3° and 0.6 ± 0.5° in flexion/extension, between 0.5 ± 0.3° and 0.5 ± 0.4° in radial‐/ulnarduction. Mean translation accuracy along the same axes between 0.8 ± 0.7 and 1.0 ± 0.8 mm, 0.5 ± 0.4 and 0.6 ± 0.4 mm, 0.6 ± 0.4 and 0.6 ± 0.5 mm, respectively. For the ulna, mean rotation accuracy between 2.4 ± 1.9° and 4.7 ± 3.8° in pronation/supination, 0.3 ± 0.3° and 0.8 ± 0.6° in flexion/extension, 0.3 ± 0.2° and 0.7 ± 0.6° in radial‐/ulnarduction. Mean translation accuracy between 0.6 ± 0.4 mm and 1.3 ± 0.9 mm, 0.4 ± 0.4 mm and 0.7 ± 0.5 mm, 0.5 ± 0.4 mm and 0.8 ± 0.6 mm, respectively. This technique provided high accuracy, and may replace the current method, if validated in clinical studies. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2630–2636, 2017.
Functional amino acids in the development of the pig placenta
Authors: Wu Guoyao , Bazer Fuller W. , Johnson Gregory A. , Herring Cassandra , Seo Heewon , Dai Zhaolai , Wang Junjun , Wu Zhenlong , Wang Xiaolong
Published: April 2017

The mammalian placenta is essential for supplying nutrients (e.g., amino acids and water) and oxygen from the mother to fetus and for removing fetal metabolites (e.g., ammonia and CO2) from fetus to mother. Thus, placental growth and development are determinants of fetal survival, growth, and development. Indeed, low birth weight is closely associated with reduced placental growth. Providing gestating gilts or sows with dietary supplementation of arginine and glutamine, increases placental growth (including vascular growth), improves embryonic/fetal growth and survival, and reduces the large variation in birth weight among litters. These two amino acids serve as building blocks for tissue protein as well as substrates for the production of polyamines and nitric oxide, which stimulate DNA and protein synthesis and angiogenesis and vascular growth in the placenta. These recent findings not only greatly advance the field of mammalian amino acid metabolism and nutrition, but also provide practical, mechanism‐based methods to enhance reproductive efficiency in swine. These results may also help improve embryonic/fetal survival and growth in other livestock species (e.g., sheep and cattle) and in humans.
Prediction of male fertility using capacitation‐associated proteins in spermatozoa
Authors: Rahman Md Saidur , Kwon Woo‐Sung , Pang Myung‐Geol
Published: April 2017

Infertility and subfertility account for huge economic losses in the animal industry; indeed, 50% of animal breeding failure is associated with male infertility. Approximately 70% of cattle and 90% of pig livestock are currently produced by artificial insemination. Therefore, breeding‐male selection is extremely important for the genetic benefits of progeny. Although conventional semen analysis provides an initial measure of male fertility, its clinical value is questionable. Proteomics approaches recently identified candidate protein markers in spermatozoa for evaluating male fertility. Fertility‐related proteins in capacitated boar spermatozoa were shown to predict boar fertility more precisely then those detected in ejaculated spermatozoa, which motivated the development of more accurate and sensitive tools for the assessment of male fertility in relation to sperm function and fertilization. Although protein markers in spermatozoa are capable of discriminating fertile and infertile males, clinical trials are required to validate their predictive utility. This review outlines recent findings regarding the capacitation‐related proteome of spermatozoa, and discusses how these proteins may be utilized to better understand the fertility of domestic animals.
Gene editing as applied to prevention of reproductive porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome
Authors: Whitworth Kristin M. , Prather Randall S.
Published: April 2017

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) causes severe reproductive failure in sows as well as transplacental transfer of PRRS virus (PRRSV) to late‐gestation fetuses, resulting in abortions, early farrowing, increased number of stillborn piglets, and weak neonatal piglets. PRRSV‐infected boars present with anorexia and lethargy, and have decreased sperm quality. The gene for the cellular receptor that the PRRSV uses, Cluster of differentiation 163 (CD163), was edited using Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 gene‐editing technology to create biallelic DNA edits to theCD163gene in 100% of the offspring.CD163‐null pigs challenged with virus were completely resistant to both Type 1 and Type 2 PRRSV isolates, as measured by clinical signs, viremia, antibody response, and lung histopathology. In vitro studies showed that CD163‐null alveolar macrophages were also not permissive to infection by a panel of six Type 1 and nine Type 2 viral isolates. Thus, DNA editing of the CD163 gene prevented PRRSV infection and reproductive losses associated with infection.
A parameterized approximation algorithm for the mixed and windy capacitated arc routing problem: Theory and experiments
Authors: van Bevern René , Komusiewicz Christian , Sorge Manuel
Published: April 2017

We prove that any polynomial‐time‐approximation algorithm for then‐vertex metric asymmetric Traveling Salesperson Problem yields a polynomial‐time‐approximation algorithm for the mixed and windy Capacitated Arc Routing Problem, whereis the number of weakly connected components in the subgraph induced by the positive‐demand arcs—a small number in many applications. In conjunction with known results, we obtain constant‐factor approximations forand‐approximations in general. Experiments show that our algorithm, together with several heuristic enhancements, outperforms many previous polynomial‐time heuristics. Finally, since the solution quality achievable in polynomial time appears to mainly depend onCand sinceC = 1 in almost all benchmark instances, we propose the Ob benchmark set, simulating cities that are divided into several components by a river. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 70(3), 262–278 2017