bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Was it less painful for knights? Influence of appearance on pain perception
Authors: Weeth A. , Mühlberger A. , Shiban Y.
Published: July 2017

Background

Pain perception is a subjective experience shaped by different factors. In this study, we investigated the influence of a visually manipulated appearance of a virtual arm on pain perception. Specifically, we investigated how pain perception and vegetative skin responses were modified by inducing a virtual protection on the right arm by a virtual armour.

Methods

Participants (n = 32) immersed in virtual reality embodied a virtual arm, which appeared in three different versions (uncovered, neutral or protected). During the virtual reality simulation, the participants received electrical stimulations of varying intensities. Skin conductance level (SCL) was analysed for the phase anticipation (from the moment the arm appeared until the electric stimulation) and perception of pain (after the electric stimulation). Pain ratings were acquired after the painful stimuli occurred.

Results

The sense of embodiment was positive for the unprotected and neutral condition and lower for the protected than for the neutral arm. Pain ratings were significantly decreased in the protected arm condition compared with both the unprotected arm and the neutral arm conditions. The SCL measurements showed no significant differences for the three arm types.

Conclusions

According to the pain ratings, participants felt significantly less pain in the covered arm condition compared with the unprotected and the neutral arm condition. Subjective pain perception was decreased by a virtual protection of the arm in VR. The simplicity of the manipulation suggests possible practical uses in pain therapy by strengthening the patients’ own capacities to influence their pain using simple cognitive manipulations via virtual reality.

Significance

A virtual, covered arm causes differences in reported pain ratings. Physiological measurements do not confirm the findings. Visual information about body protection can have an impact on pain perception.
Polymethacrylate‐based monoliths as stationary phases for separation of biopolymers and immobilization of enzymes
Authors: Martinović Tamara , Josić Djuro
Published: July 2017

The experiences in the production and application of polymethacrylate‐based monolithic supports, since their development almost thirty years ago, are presented. The main driving force for the development of new chromatographic supports was the necessity for the isolation and separation of physiologically active biopolymers and their use for therapeutic purposes. For this sake, a development of a method for fast separation, preventing denaturation and preserving their biological activity was necessary. Development of polysaccharide‐based supports, followed by the introduction of polymer‐based chromatographic media, is shortly described. This development was followed by the advances in monolithic media that are now used for both large‐ and small‐scale separation of biopolymers and nanoparticles. Finally, a short overview is given about the applications of monoliths for sample displacement chromatography, resulting in isolation of physiologically active biomolecules, such as proteins, protein complexes, and nucleic acid, as well as high‐throughput sample preparation for proteomic investigations.
MiR‐15a/16 deficiency enhances anti‐tumor immunity of glioma‐infiltrating CD8+ T cells through targeting mTOR
Authors: Yang Jiao , Liu Ronghua , Deng Yuting , Qian Jiawen , Lu Zhou , Wang Yuedi , Zhang Dan , Luo Feifei , Chu Yiwei
Published: July 2017

MiR‐15a/16, a miRNA cluster located at chromosome 13q14, has been reported to act as an immune regulator in inflammatory disorders besides its aberrant expression in cancers. However, little is known about its regulation in tumor‐infiltrating immune cells. In our study, using an orthotropic GL261 mouse glioma model, we found that miR‐15a/16 deficiency in host inhibited tumor growth and prolonged mice survival, which might be associated with the accumulation of tumor‐infiltrating CD8+ T cells. More importantly, tumor‐infiltrating CD8+ T cells without miR‐15a/16 showed lower expression of PD‐1, Tim‐3 and LAG‐3, and stronger secretion of IFN‐γ, IL‐2 and TNF‐α than WT tumor‐infiltrating CD8+ T cells. Also, our in vitro experiments further confirmed that miR‐15a/16−/− CD8+ T displayed higher active phenotypes, more cytokines secretion and faster expansion, compared to WT CD8+ T cells. Mechanismly, mTOR was identified as a target gene of miR‐15a/16 to negatively regulate the activation of CD8+ T cells. Taken together, these data suggest that miR‐15a/16 deficiency resists the exhaustion and maintains the activation of glioma‐infiltrating CD8+ T cells to alleviate glioma progression via targeting mTOR. Our findings provide evidence for the potential immunotherapy through targeting miR‐15a/16 in tumor‐infiltrating immune cells.
Zinc as an Imaging Biomarker of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lo Su‐Tang , Martins André F. , Jordan Veronica Clavijo , Sherry A. Dean
Published: July 2017

Zinc has long been the focus of many biological investigations because of its essential role in biology including a catalytic role in many enzymes, a structural role in the many zinc finger proteins, and a physiological role in many secretory cell processes. Divalent zinc is known to be highly abundant in healthy prostate tissues and lower in prostate cancer (PCa). Given the need for newer diagnostic methods for detection of prostate cancer, zinc‐responsive probes of various types have been considered as imaging tools for detecting tissue levels of zinc. Among them, recent zinc‐responsive MRI probes show great promise for non‐invasive detection of zinc ion secretion from the prostate and other tissues in vivo. In this review, we summarize the need for new diagnostic tools and demonstrate how responsive zinc probes and MRI could satisfy this unmet need.
The impact of traditionality/modernity on identification‐ and calculus‐based trust
Authors: Zhao Na , Shi Yuanyuan , Xin Ziqiang , Zhang Jianxin
Published: July 2017

We conducted three studies to explore how trust is perceived, displayed or changed by participants in China, which as a country has undergone substantial cultural and historical transition. Traditionality showed a significant positive correlation with identification‐based trust (IBT) and modernity was significantly associated with calculus‐based trust (CBT; Study 1). Compared to those primed with modern Chinese culture stimuli, participants primed with traditional icons exhibited a higher level of IBT and a lower level of CBT (Study 2). The study further demonstrated more trust behaviour based on identification with traditional culture priming and more trust behaviour based on calculus when primed with modern culture (Study 3). In sum, the present findings suggest that, along with substantial social changes and economic development, people exhibit their trust differently depending on cultural context, shedding light on the trust crisis in contemporary China.
Characterization of PVA/glutaraldehyde hydrogels obtained using Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD)
Authors: Morandim‐Giannetti Andreia de Araújo , Rubio Samantha Regina , Nogueira Regina Freitas , Ortega Fernando dos Santos , Magalhães Junior Octaviano , Schor Paulo , Bersanetti Patrícia Alessandra
Published: July 2017

Hydrogels are made from natural or synthetic polymers and, currently, they have many biomedical applications. In this work, the conditions for obtaining a hydrogel with similar physicochemical characteristics to the vitreous humor were defined using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and glutaraldehyde (GLUT) as cross‐linker. The concentration of PVA and GLUT were modified, and their effect was analyzed in terms of the refractive index, density, and dynamic viscosity. The hydrogel which was obtained using 3.98% (w/V) of PVA, 3.13 mL (1.57 g) of GLUT in 100 mL, and the initial pH of 7.2 showed similar characteristics to the vitreous humor (density = 1.0174 ± 0.0050 g mL−1, dynamic viscosity = 3.7425 ± 0.1800 mPa s and refractive index = 1.3410 ± 0.0010). The hydrogels were further investigated by rheological measurements, infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction and determination of swelling degree. The reticulation with GLUT promoted an increase in viscosity and glass transition temperature. On the other hand, it stimulated a decrease in the swelling degree, crystallinity, melting temperature, and intensity of the band related to the ‐OH bond, compared with the PVA without reticulation. The reticulated hydrogel displayed Newtonian behavior and a higher apparent viscosity than the PVA. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1558–1566, 2018.
Protective effect of proanthocyanidins against doxorubicin‐induced nephrotoxicity in rats
Authors: El‐Sayed El‐Sayed M. , Mansour Ahmed M. , El‐Sawy Waleed S.
Published: July 2017

Doxorubicin (DOX) exerts toxic effects in several organs particularly kidney. The present study aimed to assess the protective effect of proanthocyanidins (PAs) against DOX‐induced nephrotoxicity in rats. A single dose of DOX (7.5 mg/kg, i.v.) significantly increased kidney weight, kidney/body weight ratio, serum urea, creatinine, tumor necrosis factor alpha levels, and kidney contents of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase‐2, and caspase‐3 activity with significant reduction in final body weight, serum albumin, kidney contents of reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase activity as compared with control group. In contrast, pretreatment with PAs (200 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 days before DOX and for 7 days after DOX ameliorated kidney function and oxidative stress parameters. Histopathological evidence confirmed the protective effects of PAs from the tissue damage induced by DOX. In conclusion, PAs have a multi‐nephroprotective effect that might be attributed to its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptoic activities.
MNE microfoundations and routines for building a legitimate and sustainable position in emerging markets
Authors: Elg Ulf , Ghauri Pervez N. , Child John , Collinson Simon
Published: July 2017

A number of studies have analysed how multinational enterprises (MNEs) develop appropriate strategies for managing the institutionally different contexts of various markets. However, we still know rather little about how MNEs manage different institutional pressures when they operate in emerging markets. These markets have a higher level of uncertainty as their values and structures undergo change. This paper investigates the microfoundations and routines that can be part of developing a firm's capability to achieve a legitimate and environmentally sustainable position in emerging markets. We focus upon the microfoundations and routines for managing regulative, normative, and cultural–cognitive pressures. The paper utilizes an extensive qualitative case study approach. It reports a study at corporate and subsidiary levels of 3 Swedish MNEs in the in 4 markets: Brazil, Russia, India and China. The study identifies a set of routines for managing each of the 3 institutional forces and supporting microfoundations at individual, interactive, and structural levels. We are thus able to offer new insights on how the institutional context interacts with MNE strategies and identify more generic routines and microfoundations behind the capability for developing a sustainable market position.
Use of observed temperature statistics in rankingCMIP5model performance over the Western Himalayan Region of India
Authors: Das Lalu , Dutta Monami , Mezghani Abdelkader , Benestad Rasmus E.
Published: July 2017

Assessing warming over the Western Himalayan Region (WHR) of India is challenging due to its limited station data availability and poor data quality. The missing values in the station data were replaced using the Multiple Imputation Chained Equation technique. Finally, 16 stations having continuous records during 1969–2009 were considered as the ‘reference stations’ for assessing the warming/cooling trends in addition to evaluate the Coupled Model Intercomparison, phase 5 (CMIP5), Global Circulation Model (GCM). Station data indicates winter (DJF) warming is higher and rapid (1.41 °C) than the other seasons and less warming was observed in the post‐monsoon (0.31 °C) season. Overall mean annual warming overWHRis ∼0.84 °C during 1969–2009. The performance of 34CMIP5models was evaluated based on three different criteria namely (1) mean seasonal cycle, (2) temporal trends and (3) spatial correlation between simulated and observed signals for common available period of 1969–2003 over the study area. Models are provided a final rank on the basis of the cumulative rank obtained in each of three approaches.CMCC‐CM,GISS‐E2‐HandMIROC 5are three top‐ranked models whileMIROC‐ESM,MIROC‐ESM‐CHEMand bcc‐csm1‐1 are three bottom‐ranked models over theWHR. The study also extended to judge whether the selected top‐ranked models perform well through two alternative data sources namely European Reanalysis (ERA)‐interim and Climate Research Unit (CRU), which have not used in the process of model evaluation. The spatial patterns of top‐rankedGCMare similar to the spatial pattern obtained throughERA‐interim andCRUwhile zoomed in toWHRbut bottom‐ranked models fail to reproduce such spatial patterns indicating the top‐rankedGCMswould offer more reliability for projecting future climate overWHR.
In vitro methane and gas production with inocula from cows and goats fed an identical diet
Authors: Mengistu Genet , Hendriks Wouter H , Pellikaan Wilbert F
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Fermentative capacity among ruminants can differ depending on the type of ruminant species and the substrate fermented. The aim was to compare in vitro cow and goat rumen inocula in terms of methane (CH4) and gas production (GP), fermentation kinetics and 72 h volatile fatty acids (VFA) production using the browse species Acacia etbaica, Capparis tomentosa, Dichrostachys cinerea, Rhus natalensis, freeze‐dried maize silage and grass silage, and a concentrate as substrates.

RESULTS

Total GP, CH4 and VFA were higher (P ≤ 0.008) in goat inoculum than cows across substrates. The half‐time for asymptotic GP was lower (P < 0.0001) in phase 1 and higher (P < 0.012) in phase 2, and the maximum rate of GP was higher (P < 0.0001) in phase 1 and phase 3 (P < 0.0001) in goats compared to cows. Methane production and as a percentage of total GP was higher (P < 0.0001) and the half‐time tended (P = 0.059) to be at a later time for goats compared to cows.

CONCLUSION

Goat inoculum showed higher fermentative activity with a concomitant higher CH4 production compared to cows. This difference highlights the ability of goats to better utilise browse species and other roughage types. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Sequential extraction of flavonoids and pectin from yellow passion fruit rind using pressurized solvent or ultrasound
Authors: de Souza Caroline G , Rodrigues Tigressa HS , e Silva Lorena MA , Ribeiro Paulo RV , de Brito Edy S
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Passion fruit rind (PFR) represents 90% of the total fruit weight and is wasted during juice processing. Passion fruit rind is known to contain flavonoids and pectin. An alternative use for this fruit juice industrial residue is to obtain these compounds. This study aimed to verify the influence of pressurized solvent extraction (PSE) or ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) of flavonoid and pectin in a sequential process.

RESULTS

The PSE using ethanol at 60:40 (v/v) yielded a total polyphenol content of 4.67 g GAE kg−1 PFR, orientin‐7‐O‐glucoside (1.57 g kg−1 PFR) and luteolin‐6‐C‐glucoside (2.44 g kg−1 PFR). Pectin yield was 165 g kg−1 PFR, either in PSE or UAE. Pectin characterization indicates that the pectic structure has basically homogalacturonans and galacturonate followed by a galacturonic acid ester unit, with methylation degree of 70%.

CONCLUSION

With this study it can be concluded that mixtures of alcohols with water favor the extraction of bioactive compounds of passion fruit peel. Both PSE and UAE were effective in sequentially extracting flavonoids and pectin. The preferred solvent is ethanol due to its lower toxicity. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Regulation of fluid flow through the mammary gland of dairy cows and its effect on milk production: a systematic review
Authors: Cai Jie , Wang Diming , Liu Jianxin
Published: July 2017

Dairy milk consists of more than 85% water. Therefore, understanding the regulation of fluid absorption in the mammary gland is relevant to improving milk production. In recent decades, studies using different approaches, including blood flow, transmembrane fluid flow, tight junction, fluid flow of the paracellular pathway and functional mammary epithelial cell state, have been conducted aiming to investigate how mammary gland fluid absorption is regulated. However, the relationship between regulation mechanisms of fluid flow and milk production has not been studied systematically. The present review summarizes a series of key milk yield regulatory factors mediated by whole‐mammary fluid flow, including milk, mammary blood flow, blood/tissue fluid–cell fluid flow and cell–alveolus fluid flow. Whole‐mammary fluid flow regulates milk production by altering transporter activity, ion channels, local microcirculation‐related factors, driving force of fluid transport (osmotic pressure or electrochemical gradient), cellular connection state and a cell volume sensitive mechanism. In addition, whole‐mammary fluid flow plays important roles in milk synthesis and secretion. Knowledge gained from fluid flow‐mediated regulatory mechanisms of the dairy mammary gland will lead to a fundamental understanding of lactation biology and will be beneficial for the improvement of dairy productivity. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
How are arbuscular mycorrhizal associations related to maize growth performance during short‐term cover crop rotation?
Authors: Higo Masao , Takahashi Yuichi , Gunji Kento , Isobe Katsunori
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Better cover crop management options aiming to maximize the benefits of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to subsequent crops are largely unknown. We investigated the impact of cover crop management methods on maize growth performance and assemblages of AMF colonizing maize roots in a field trial. The cover crop treatments comprised Italian ryegrass, wheat, brown mustard and fallow in rotation with maize.

RESULTS

The diversity of AMF communities among cover crops used for maize management was significantly influenced by the cover crop and time course. Cover crops did not affect grain yield and aboveground biomass of subsequent maize but affected early growth. A structural equation model indicated that the root colonization, AMF diversity and maize phosphorus uptake had direct strong positive effects on yield performance.

CONCLUSION

AMF variables and maize performance were related directly or indirectly to maize grain yield, whereas root colonization had a positive effect on maize performance. AMF may be an essential factor that determines the success of cover crop rotational systems. Encouraging AMF associations can potentially benefit cover cropping systems. Therefore, it is imperative to consider AMF associations and crop phenology when making management decisions. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
On generically non‐reduced components of Hilbert schemes of smooth curves
Authors: Dan Ananyo
Published: July 2017

A classical example of Mumford gives a generically non‐reduced component of the Hilbert scheme of smooth curves in such that a general element of the component is contained in a smooth cubic surface in . In this article we use techniques from Hodge theory to give further examples of such (generically non‐reduced) components of Hilbert schemes of smooth curves without any restriction on the degree of the surface containing it. As a byproduct we also obtain generically non‐reduced components of certain Hodge loci.
The Cesàro operator in weighted ℓ1 spaces
Authors: Albanese Angela A. , Bonet José , Ricker Werner J.
Published: July 2017

Unlike for , , the discrete Cesàro operator does not map ℓ1 into itself. We identify precisely those weights w such that does map continuously into itself. For these weights a complete description of the eigenvalues and the spectrum of are presented. It is also possible to identify all w such that is a compact operator in . The final section investigates the mean ergodic properties of in . Many examples are presented in order to supplement the results and to illustrate the phenomena that occur.
Tensor products of regularly varying sequences
Authors: Pietsch Albrecht
Published: July 2017

We investigate how asymptotic properties of real sequences and are passed on to their tensor product . The main result concerns sequences of the form
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201700083:mana201700083-math-0004This problem is closely related to tensor stability of operator ideals on the Hilbert space.
A Four‐Armed Unsymmetrical Cryptand: From Two Different Host–Guest Interactions to Responsive Supramolecular Polymer
Authors: Yao Chenhao , Zhang Jing , Cheng Ming , Sun Qiang , Pan Yi , Jiang Juli , Wang Leyong
Published: July 2017

By linking BMP32C10 and DB24C8 motifs together, a four‐armed cryptand 1 is synthesized successfully, in which BMP32C10 motif can bind paraquat 2 while DB24C8 motif can complex dibenzylammonium salt 3 in spite of the electrostatic repulsion between guests 2 and 3. The base/acid‐responsive supramolecular polymer is constructed further via two kinds of host–guest interactions between cryptand 1 and two homoditopic paraquat 4 and dibenzylammonium salt 5 similar to guests 2 and 3.

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Recent advances in uveal melanoma treatment
Authors: Álvarez‐Rodríguez Beatriz , Latorre Alfonso , Posch Christian , Somoza Álvaro
Published: July 2017

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults. Recent advances in the understanding of molecular characteristics helped to determine which tumors are most likely to progress. About 50% of patients carrying genetic alterations such as chromosomal aberrations and mutations are at significant risk for metastatic disease of which the majority will succumb to UM within few months. Currently, there is no effective treatment for metastatic uveal melanoma, and we hope this review will encourage researchers and clinicians to work to find a better standard of care. In this article we provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular framework of UM, highlighting the most common mutations involved in this kind of cancer. It also covers the most recent treatments from basic research to clinical trials, including small molecules, nucleic acids or immunotherapy, among others. It is intended to serve as a key reference for clinicians and researchers working in this field.
Large‐time behavior of solutions to a 1D liquid crystal system
Authors: Qin Yuming , Feng Baowei
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we prove the large‐time behavior, as time tends to infinity, of solutions in
and
for a system modeling the nematic liquid crystal flow, which consists of a subsystem of the compressible Navier‐Stokes equations coupling with a subsystem including a heat flow equation for harmonic maps.
Fast digestive, leucine‐rich, soluble milk proteins improve muscle protein anabolism, and mitochondrial function in undernourished old rats
Authors: Salles Jérôme , Chanet Audrey , Berry Alexandre , Giraudet Christophe , Patrac Véronique , Domingues‐Faria Carla , Rocher Christophe , Guillet Christelle , Denis Philippe , Pouyet Corinne , Bonhomme Cécile , Le Ruyet Pascale , Rolland Yves , Boirie Yves , Walrand Stéphane
Published: July 2017

Scope

One strategy to manage malnutrition in older patients is to increase protein and energy intake. Here, we evaluate the influence of protein quality during refeeding on improvement in muscle protein and energy metabolism.

Methods and results

Twenty‐month‐old male rats (n = 40) were fed 50% of their spontaneous intake for 12 weeks to induce malnutrition, then refed ad libitum with a standard diet enriched with casein or soluble milk proteins (22%) for 4 weeks. A 13C‐valine was infused to measure muscle protein synthesis and expression of MuRF1, and MAFbx was measured to evaluate muscle proteolysis. mTOR pathway activation and mitochondrial function were assessed in muscle. Malnutrition was associated with a decrease in body weight, fat mass, and lean mass, particularly muscle mass. Malnutrition decreased muscle mTOR pathway activation and protein FSR associated with increased MuRF1 mRNA levels, and decreased mitochondrial function. The refeeding period partially restored fat mass and lean mass. Unlike the casein diet, the soluble milk protein diet improved muscle protein metabolism and mitochondrial function in old malnourished rats.

Conclusions

These results suggest that providing better‐quality proteins during refeeding may improve efficacy of renutrition in malnourished older patients.
In vivo phase imaging of human epiphyseal cartilage at 7 T
Authors: Dymerska Barbara , Bohndorf Klaus , Schennach Paul , Rauscher Alexander , Trattnig Siegfried , Robinson Simon D.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To assess the potential clinical utility of in vivo susceptibility‐weighted imaging and quantitative susceptibility mapping of growth cartilage in the juvenile human knee at 7 T.

Methods

High‐resolution gradient‐echo images of the knees of six healthy children and adolescents aged 6 to 15 were acquired with a 28‐channel coil at 7 T. Phase images from the coils were combined using a short echo‐time reference scan method (COMPOSER).

Results

Veins oriented perpendicular to the static B0 field appeared doubled in susceptibility‐weighted imaging, but not quantitative susceptibility mapping. Veins and layers in the cartilage were visible in all children up to the age of 13.

Conclusions

Phase imaging using susceptibility‐weighted imaging and quantitative susceptibility mapping allows the in vivo visualization of veins and layers in human growth cartilage. Magn Reson Med 79:2149–2155, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Stochastic modelling of crack propagation in materials with random properties using isometric mapping for dimensionality reduction of nonlinear data sets
Authors: Mousavi Nezhad M. , Gironacci E. , Rezania M. , Khalili N.
Published: July 2017

Fractures tend to propagate along the least resistance paths, and homogeneous‐based models may not be able to reliably predict the true crack paths, as they are not capable of capturing nonlinearities and local damage induced by local inhomogeneity. This paper presents a stochastic numerical modelling framework for simulating fracturing in natural heterogeneous materials. Fracture propagation is modelled using Francfort and Marigo's variational theory, and randomness in the material properties is introduced by random field principle. A computational strategy on the basis of nonlinear dimensionality reduction framework is developed that maps domain of spatially variable properties of the materials to a low‐dimensional space. This strategy allows us to predict the most probable fracture patterns leading to failure by an optimisation algorithm. The reliability and performance of the developed methodology are examined through simulation of experimental case studies and comparison of predictions with measured data.
Metabolomic Profiling of Long‐Term Weight Change: Role of Oxidative Stress and Urate Levels in Weight Gain
Authors: Menni Cristina , Migaud Marie , Kastenmüller Gabi , Pallister Tess , Zierer Jonas , Peters Annette , Mohney Robert P. , Spector Tim D. , Bagnardi Vincenzo , Gieger Christian , Moore Steve C. , Valdes Ana M.
Published: July 2017

Objective

To investigate the association between long‐term weight change and blood metabolites.

Methods

Change in BMI over 8.6 ± 3.79 years was assessed in 3,176 females from the TwinsUK cohort (age range: 18.3‐79.6, baseline BMI: 25.11 ± 4.35) measured for 280 metabolites at follow‐up. Statistically significant metabolites (adjusting for covariates) were included in a multivariable least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) model. Findings were replicated in the Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg (KORA) study (n = 1,760; age range: 25‐70, baseline BMI: 27.72 ± 4.53). The study examined whether the metabolites identified could prospectively predict weight change in KORA and in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer (PLCO) study (n = 471; age range: 55‐74, baseline BMI: 27.24 ± 5.37).

Results

Thirty metabolites were significantly associated with change in BMI per year in TwinsUK using Bonferroni correction. Four were independently associated with weight change in the multivariable LASSO model and replicated in KORA: namely, urate (meta‐analysis β [95% CI] = 0.05 [0.040 to 0.063]; P = 1.37 × 10−19), gamma‐glutamyl valine (β [95% CI] = 0.06 [0.046 to 0.070]; P = 1.23 × 10−20), butyrylcarnitine (β [95% CI] = 0.04 [0.028 to 0.051]; P = 6.72 × 10−12), and 3‐phenylpropionate (β [95% CI] = −0.03 [−0.041 to −0.019]; P = 9.8 × 10−8), all involved in oxidative stress. Higher levels of urate at baseline were associated with weight gain in KORA and PLCO.

Conclusions

Metabolites linked to higher oxidative stress are associated with increased long‐term weight gain.
Mechanical, dielectric, and thermal properties of polyarylene ether nitrile and boron nitride nanosheets composites
Authors: Xiao Qian , Han Weihua , Yang Ruiqi , You Yong , Wei Renbo , Liu Xiaobo
Published: July 2017

The thermal conductivity of polyarylene ether nitrile (PEN) is effectively improved by the incorporation of boron nitride nanosheet (BNNS). BNNS is obtained via sonication exfoliation of commercial available hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) microplatelets in N‐methylpyrrolidone solvent. The BNNS, which is in 1–3 layers, is characterized by Atomic Force Microscopy measurement, Transmission electron microscopy observation and Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrum. The BNNS is incorporated into the PEN matrix to fabricate BNNS/PEN nanocomposites by using the solution‐casting method. The micromorphologies, thermal, mechanical, dielectric, and thermal conductivity properties of the obtained BNNS/PEN nanocomposites are investigated in detail. Scanning electron microscopy observation shows that the BNNS is homogeneously dispersed in the PEN matrix. The obtained BNNS/PEN nanocomposites show good thermal stability as the glass transition temperatures and initial decomposition temperatures of them are higher than 200 and 490°C. The coefficients of thermal expansion decreases with the increasing of BNNS, and is as low as 0.33 µm/°C when 5.0 wt% of BNNS is incorporated. The thermal conductivity increases with 64% at 5.0 wt% content of BNNS. The incorporation of the BNNS makes these BNNS/PEN composites as potential candidates to be used at high temperature with small thermal deformation. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1598–E1605, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Fabrication and reinforcement of ternary composites based on polypropylene matrix with bamboo particle/ultrafine bamboo‐char
Authors: Zhang Huanhuan , Yao Wenchao , Qian Shaoping , Sheng Kuichuan
Published: July 2017

In this study, ultrafine bamboo‐char (UFBC) with different particle size was introduced into polypropylene (PP)/bamboo particle (BP) composites to improve the mechanical, thermal, and moisture resistant properties. PP/BP/UFBC ternary composites of different weight ratio were fabricated by melt blending and hot compression molding. Results showed that with UFBC content increasing, mechanical properties of composites gradually increased, and the good tensile strength of 29.12MPa and 34.15MPa was obtained when the ratio was 70/5/25 and 70/0/30, respectively, which improved by 141% and 182% than that of pure PP. Further, especially for finer UFBC, there was an obvious enhancement in flexural strength from 33.71 MPa to 54.14 MPa corresponding to the ratio of 70/20/10 to 70/5/25. The improvement related to matrix‐filler adhesion was also demonstrated by SEM. Crystallization temperature and melting temperature exhibited 8.7°C and 4.6°C higher than PP/BP composites, respectively. Moisture resistance was significantly improved when over 20 wt% UFBC was added. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4364–4371, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Changes in misuse and abuse of prescription opioids following implementation of Extended‐Release and Long‐Acting Opioid Analgesic Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy
Authors: Bucher Bartelson Becki , Le Lait M. Claire , Green Jody L. , Cepeda M. Soledad , Coplan Paul M. , Maziere Jean‐Yves , Wedin Gregory P. , Dart Richard C.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

An unintended consequence of extended‐release (ER) and long‐acting (LA) prescription opioids is that these formulations can be more attractive to abusers than immediate‐release (IR) formulations. The US Food and Drug Administration recognized these risks and approved the ER/LA Opioid Analgesic Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (ER/LA REMS), which has a goal of reducing opioid misuse and abuse and their associated consequences. The primary objective of this analysis is to determine whether ER/LA REMS implementation was associated with decreased reports of misuse and abuse.

Methods

Data from the Researched Abuse, Diversion and Addiction‐Related Surveillance (RADARS(R)) System Poison Center Program were utilized. Poison center cases are assigned a reason for exposure, a medical outcome, and a level of health care received. Rates adjusted for population and drug utilization were analyzed over time.

Results

RADARS System Poison Center Program data indicate a notable decrease in ER/LA opioid rates of intentional abuse and misuse as well as major medical outcomes or hospitalizations following implementation of the ER/LA REMS.

Conclusions

While similar decreases were observed for the IR prescription opioid group, the decreasing rate for the ER/LA opioids exceeded the decreasing rates for the IR prescription opioids and was distinctly different than that for the prescription stimulants, indicating that the ER/LA REMS program may have had an additional effect on decreases in opioid abuse and intentional misuse beyond secular trends.
Pregnancy and infant outcomes including major congenital malformations among women with chronic inflammatory arthritis or psoriasis, with and without etanercept use
Authors: Carman Wendy J. , Accortt Neil A. , Anthony Mary S. , Iles Janet , Enger Cheryl
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Objectives were to quantify prevalence estimates of pregnancy and infant outcomes including major congenital malformations (MCMs) by etanercept (ETN) exposure among infants born to women with chronic inflammatory arthritis (cIA) or psoriasis (PsO).

Methods

Claims‐based data delineated pregnancy exposures and outcomes of live or nonlive births among women with cIA and PsO (ETN exposed, unexposed) and general population (GP) comparators. Infant outcomes were determined for live‐born infants covered by the mother's insurer. Medical records were obtained from all accessible mother‐infant pairs with claims for MCMs and a random sample of mothers. Multivariable logistic regression estimated the odds ratios (ORs) of having at least one algorithm‐defined MCM in the ETN‐exposed cohorts versus unexposed comparators.

Results

Prevalence estimates for pregnancy outcomes were comparable across cIA and PsO cohorts. Algorithm‐defined prevalence estimates of having at least one MCM were 6.1% (ETN exposed), 5.5% (unexposed), and 5.7% (GP cohort) for the cIA cohort; PsO cohort estimates were 2.0%, 4.2%, and 4.7%, respectively. The ETN‐exposure ORs for having at least one algorithm‐defined MCM among infants of cIA mothers was 1.03 (95%CI: 0.51‐2.10) and 0.39 (95%CI: 0.05‐2.98) among infants of PsO mothers. Logistic regression with inverse probability of treatment weighting that included disease state resulted in an OR of 0.65 (0.24, 1.72).

Conclusions

Overall, this study did not identify any new safety concerns associated with the use of etanercept during pregnancy. Etanercept, along with the other TNFis, remains a treatment without well‐controlled clinical trials in pregnant women. Patients should continue to consult their doctor regarding benefit risk decisions of TNFi therapy during pregnancy.
New oral anticoagulant prescription rate and risk of bleeding in an Italian region
Authors: Valent Francesca
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to measure the prescription rate of new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and to investigate whether there is an increased risk of bleeding associated with these medications in the 1 220 000‐inhabitant Italian region Friuli Venezia Giulia.

Methods

The administrative data of the Regional Health Information System, linkable with each other at the individual patient level through an anonymous stochastic key, were used as the source of information. Prescription rates for rivaroxaban, dabigatran, and apixaban were calculated in the regional population in 2014 and 2015, also stratified by age class and gender. A case‐crossover analysis with pair‐matched interval approach and a case‐time‐control analysis were conducted to assess the risk of hospitalization with a diagnosis of bleeding and prescription of NOACs.

Results

In the regional population ≥18 years of age, 1626 NOACs prescriptions per 100 000 population‐years were filled in 2014 and 3370 in 2015. Prescription rate increased with age and was greater in males than in females. Overall, being a current NOACs user was not associated with the risk of hospitalization for bleeding compared to being a nonuser. A nonsignificant increase in risk was observed among patients with low prescription intensity.

Conclusions

This study showed an increasing time trend in NOACs prescriptions NOACs in Friuli Venezia Giulia. In this Italian population, NOACs users had no significantly increased risk of bleeding events as compared with nonusers.
Temperature effects on spreading of water nano‐droplet on poly(methyl methacrylate): A molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: Foroutan Masumeh , Zahedi Hojat , Esmaeilian Farshad
Published: July 2017

In this article, the effect of temperature on the spreading behavior of a water nano‐droplet on poly(methyl methacrylate) substrate is investigated. The contact angle analysis illustrates that the spreading process occurs in a stage‐like manner and the increase in temperature causes a regime change from partial to total wetting. The interaction energy distributions show that there exist sites on the surface which could trap water molecules and provide a better path for other molecules to overcome the asperities. Estimations of the coefficients of self‐diffusivity suggest that temperature has a major effect in the reorientation stage, which results in the formation of the interfacial layer. In the second stage of spreading, temperature affects the process by providing sufficient energy for water molecules to overcome the interactions with the substrate. Therefore, this stage is controlled by the movement of water molecules on the surface and is highly influenced by their interaction with the surface asperities, strong interaction sites, and the carbonyl groups. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 1532–1541
mTOR‐Notch3 signaling mediates pulmonary hypertension in hypoxia‐exposed neonatal rats independent of changes in autophagy
Authors: Ivanovska Julijana , Shah Sparsh , Wong Mathew J. , Kantores Crystal , Jain Amish , Post Martin , Yeganeh Behzad , Jankov Robert P.
Published: July 2017

Background/Aim

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a pivotal regulator of cell proliferation, survival, and autophagy. Autophagy is increased in adult experimental chronic pulmonary hypertension (PHT), but its contributory role to pulmonary vascular disease remains uncertain and has yet to be explored in the neonatal animal. Notch is a major pro‐proliferative pathway activated by mTOR. A direct relationship between autophagy and Notch signaling has not been previously explored. Our aim was to examine changes in mTOR‐, Notch‐, and autophagy‐related pathways and the therapeutic effects of autophagy modulators in experimental chronic neonatal PHT secondary to chronic hypoxia.

Methods

Rat pups were exposed to normoxia or hypoxia (13% O2) from postnatal days 1‐21, while receiving treatment with temsirolimus (mTOR inhibitor), DAPT (Notch inhibitor), or chloroquine (inhibitor of autophagic flux).

Results

Exposure to hypoxia up‐regulated autophagy and Notch3 signaling markers in lung, pulmonary artery (PA), and PA‐derived smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Temsirolimus prevented chronic PHT and attenuated PA and SMC signaling secondary to hypoxia. These effects were replicated by DAPT. mTOR or Notch inhibition also down‐regulated smooth muscle content of platelet‐derived growth factor β‐receptor, a known contributor to vascular remodeling. In contrast, chloroquine had no modifying effects on markers of chronic PHT. Knockdown of Beclin‐1 in SMCs had no effect on hypoxia‐stimulated Notch3 signaling.

Conclusions

mTOR‐Notch3 signaling plays a critical role in experimental chronic neonatal PHT. Inhibition of autophagy did not suppress Notch signaling and had no effect on markers of chronic PHT.
Structure and dimerization of the catalytic domain of the protein phosphatase Cdc14p, a key regulator of mitotic exit in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Kobayashi Junya , Matsuura Yoshiyuki
Published: July 2017

In the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the protein phosphatase Cdc14p orchestrates various events essential for mitotic exit. We have determined the X‐ray crystal structures at 1.85 Å resolution of the catalytic domain of Cdc14p in both the apo state, and as a complex with S160‐phosphorylated Swi6p peptide. Each asymmetric unit contains two Cdc14p chains arranged in an intimately associated homodimer, consistent with its oligomeric state in solution. The dimerization interface is located on the backside of the substrate‐binding cleft. Structure‐based mutational analyses indicate that the dimerization of Cdc14p is required for normal growth of yeast cells.
Causes and treatment of nausea and vomiting
Authors: Bhakta Aaron , Goel Rishi
Published: July 2017

Nausea and vomiting are associated with a range of underlying causes, and a full history and clinical examination are essential in order to yield a diagnosis and commence appropriate treatment. This article discusses the various causes of nausea and vomiting and the treatment options available.
A novel optimal coordinated control strategy for the updated robot system for single port surgery
Authors: Bai Weibang , Cao Qixin , Leng Chuntao , Cao Yang , Fujie Masakatsu G. , Pan Tiewen
Published: July 2017

Background

Research into robotic systems for single port surgery (SPS) has become widespread around the world in recent years. A new robot arm system for SPS was developed, but its positioning platform and other hardware components were not efficient. Special features of the developed surgical robot system make good teleoperation with safety and efficiency difficult.

Methods

A robot arm is combined and used as new positioning platform, and the remote center motion is realized by a new method using active motion control. A new mapping strategy based on kinematics computation and a novel optimal coordinated control strategy based on real‐time approaching to a defined anthropopathic criterion configuration that is referred to the customary ease state of human arms and especially the configuration of boxers' habitual preparation posture are developed.

Results

The hardware components, control architecture, control system, and mapping strategy of the robotic system has been updated. A novel optimal coordinated control strategy is proposed and tested.

Conclusions

The new robot system can be more dexterous, intelligent, convenient and safer for preoperative positioning and intraoperative adjustment. The mapping strategy can achieve good following and representation for the slave manipulator arms. And the proposed novel control strategy can enable them to complete tasks with higher maneuverability, lower possibility of self‐interference and singularity free while teleoperating.
How much professional development is needed with educative curriculum materials? It depends upon the intended student learning outcomes
Authors: Schuchardt Anita M. , Tekkumru‐Kisa Miray , Schunn Christian D. , Stein Mary Kay , Reynolds Birdy
Published: July 2017

There is little consensus on the kinds and amounts of teacher support needed to achieve desired student learning outcomes when mathematics is inserted into science classrooms. When supported by educative curriculum materials (ECM) and heavy investment in professional development (PD), teachers implementing a unit designed around mathematical modeling of scientific mechanisms substantially increased students’ ability to make both qualitative and quantitative predictions (Schuchardt & Schunn, 2016). Because of concerns about equitable access to support resources, we investigated whether variations in PD support while retaining ECM could differentially affect two student learning outcomes: Quantitative Predictions and Qualitative Predictions. Two contrasts were performed examining: (1) the effect of reducing PD and (2) whether eliminating PD entirely caused further harm to student learning. Reducing and eliminating PD had no significant effect on student gains in Qualitative Predictions, suggesting ECM can be sufficient for teachers to support student learning of conceptual science content. However, student gains in Quantitative Predictions decreased significantly upon reducing PD; eliminating PD did not cause significant additional decreases. Combined, these findings suggest that amount of face‐to face PD support necessary to achieve student‐learning gains can vary depending on whether the practice requires application of qualitative science content or quantitative reasoning.
Highly Fluorescent and Stable Ruthenium Unit/Layered Double Hydroxide Composite with Sensitive Detection of Cr2O72−
Authors: Li Lina , Wang Sasa , Xu Yingying , Zhao Sangen , Sun Zhihua , Ji Chengmin , Asghar Muhammad Adnan , Luo Junhua
Published: July 2017

A highly stable and intensely fluorescent composite was assembled by incorporating ruthenium functional unit (Ru unit) into layered double hydroxide matrices. This composite inherits the photoluminescence property of Ru unit but exhibits enhanced photoluminescence with a long lifetime. Importantly, it acts as an excellent chemosensor for sensitive detection on Cr2O72−. Such detection resulted in visible photoluminecence quenching. Furthermore, the composite is remarkably stable in the detection conditions without Ru unit leaking out. Therefore, these results provide us a simple, sensitive, and effective approach to detect Cr2O72−.