bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nano‐Bio Engineered Carbon Dot‐Peptide Functionalized Water Dispersible Hyperbranched Polyurethane for Bone Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Gogoi Satyabrat , Maji Somnath , Mishra Debasish , Devi K. Sanjana P. , Maiti Tapas Kumar , Karak Niranjan
Published: September 2016

The present study delves into a combined bio‐nano‐macromolecular approach for bone tissue engineering. This approach relies on the properties of an ideal scaffold material imbued with all the chemical premises required for fostering cellular growth and differentiation. A tannic acid based water dispersible hyperbranched polyurethane is fabricated with bio‐nanohybrids of carbon dot and four different peptides (viz. SVVYGLR, PRGDSGYRGDS, IPP, and CGGKVGKACCVPTKLSPISVLYK) to impart target specific in vivo bone healing ability. This polymeric bio‐nanocomposite is blended with 10 wt% of gelatin and examined as a non‐invasive delivery vehicle. In vitro assessment of the developed polymeric system reveals good osteoblast adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Aided by this panel of peptides, the polymeric bio‐nanocomposite exhibits in vivo ectopic bone formation ability. The study on in vivo mineralization and vascularization reveals the occurrence of calcification and blood vessel formation. Thus, the study demonstrates carbon dot/peptide functionalized hyperbranched polyurethane gel for bone tissue engineering application.

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Additive Manufacturing of Poly(propylene) by Means of Melt Extrusion
Authors: Hertle Sebastian , Drexler Maximilian , Drummer Dietmar
Published: September 2016

Additive manufacturing (AM) processes can provide great input for solving recently encountered challenges of the global market such as mass customization, highly dynamic environments, and the decrease of time needed from a draft to final products. This study aims at contributing to the issue of material limitations typically present in AM by researching possibilities of directly using technically relevant and commercially available polymer granules in melt extrusion processes. In order to extend the knowledge on the processing of semicrystalline polymers in melt extrusion based processes, different temperature induced influences on mechanical and morphological properties are investigated for poly(propylene). Mechanical tests are conducted to evaluate the effects and interdependencies of substrate, extrusion, and cooling temperature. Finally, based on the identified mechanical and rheological behavior of the material, a process window for the used materials is suggested.

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Covalent Bonding of an Electroconductive Hydrogel to Gold‐Coated Titanium Surfaces via Thiol‐ene Click Chemistry
Authors: Tan Guoxin , Liu Yan , Zhou Lei , Ouyang Kongyou , Wang Zhengao , Yu Peng , Ning Chengyun
Published: September 2016

In the present study, the covalent bonding of electroconductive cross‐linked hydrogel networks with both electro‐properties and hydrogel characteristics to titanium surfaces via a UV‐initiated radical thiol‐ene click reaction is investigated. The electroconductive hydrogel layers are formed by the electropolymerization of pyrrole within the titanium implant‐supported gelatin methacrylate hydrogel. Characterization of the surface morphology of the layers reveals a unique rough macroporous structure. The hydrogel coating layer on the titanium surfaces possesses the desired characteristics of high electrochemical activity and high mechanical stability due to the effects of the chemical functionalization. Bone mesenchymal stem cells cultured on the hydrogel substrates exhibit high cell viability. This study is the first to demonstrate the potential of an electroconductive hydrogel as a surface coating on titanium implants for cell growth and provides a foundation for the development of new implantable bioelectronic devices.

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Site‐specific methylation patterns of the GAL and GALR1/2 genes in head and neck cancer: Potential utility as biomarkers for prognosis
Authors: Misawa Kiyoshi , Mochizuki Daiki , Endo Shiori , Mima Masato , Misawa Yuki , Imai Atsushi , Shinmura Kazuya , Kanazawa Takeharu , Carey Thomas E. , Mineta Hiroyuki
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of the promoter methylation status of galanin (GAL) and galanin receptor 1/2 (GALR1/2) by assessing their association with disease‐free survival and known prognostic factors in head and neck cancer. We generated methylation profiles of GAL and GALR1/2 in tumor samples obtained from 202 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC); these included 43 hypopharynx, 42 larynx, 59 oral cavity, and 58 oropharynx tumor samples. CpG island hypermethylation status of the three genes was analyzed using quantitative methylation‐specific PCR (Q‐MSP). In order to determine the prognostic value of the methylation status of these genes, the associations between methylation index and various clinical characteristics, especially tumor site, were assessed for tumors from patients with HNSCC. The methylation index was positively correlated with female gender (P = 0.008) and disease recurrence (P = 0.01) in oral cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive (P = 0.004) status and disease recurrence (P = 0.005) in oropharyngeal cancer. Among patients with oral and oropharyngeal cancer, promoter hypermethylation of GAL, GALR1, or GALR2 was statistically correlated with a decrease in disease‐free survival (log‐rank test, P = 0.036 and P = 0.042, respectively). Furthermore, methylation of GAL, GALR1, or GALR2 exhibited the highest association with poor survival (log‐rank test, P = 0.018) in patients with HPV‐negative oropharyngeal cancers. As such, GAL and GALR1/2 methylation status may serve as an important site‐specific biomarker for prediction of clinical outcome in patients with HNSCC. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in HbA1c and circulating and adipose tissue androgen levels in overweight‐obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome in response to electroacupuncture
Authors: Stener‐Victorin E. , Maliqueo M. , Soligo M. , Protto V. , Manni L. , Jerlhag E. , Kokosar M. , Sazonova A. , Behre C. J. , Lind M. , Ohlsson C. , Højlund K. , Benrick A.
Published: September 2016

Aim

Insulin sensitivity is ~40% lower in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) than in controls. We tested the hypothesis that 5 weeks of electroacupuncture treatment improves glucose regulation and androgen levels in overweight/obese women with PCOS.

Material and Methods

Seventeen women with PCOS, aged 18 to 38 years, with a body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 and diagnosed with PCOS were included in this experimental and feasibility study and subjected to five weeks of electroacupuncture treatments three times/week. The primary outcome was changes in whole‐body glucose homeostasis measured by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp before and after the intervention. Secondary outcome were changes in HbA1c, circulating catecholamines, adipocyte size and adipose tissue expression of sex steroids and nerve growth factor (NGF).

Results

No significant change in glucose homeostasis was observed, but HbA1c decreased by 9.5% (p = 0.004), circulating testosterone decreased by 22% (p = 0.0007) and dihydrotestosterone decreased by 12% (p = 0.007). The two vagal activity markers of plasma serotonin levels and the dopamine metabolite homovanillic acid decreased by 21% (p = 0.027) and 20% (p = 0.011), respectively. Adipose tissue concentrations of testosterone decreased by 18% (p = 0.049), and androstenedione decreased by 13% (p = 0.035), and mature NGF/proNGF ratio, a marker of sympathetic activity, increased (p = 0.04). These changes occurred without changes in anthropometrics.

Conclusion

Five weeks of electroacupuncture treatment improves HbA1c and circulating and adipose tissue androgens in women with PCOS. This effect is mediated, at least in part, via modulation of vagal activity and adipose tissue sympathetic activity. Based on these findings, we have recently initiated a randomized controlled study (NTC02647827).
POSS‐based poly(aryl ether sulfone)s random terpolymer linked POSS to the main chain: effect of chemical structure and POSS content on properties
Authors: Wei Yanfeng , Jiang Qiyang , Hao Jinmeng , Mu Jianxin
Published: September 2016

In order to investigate the effect of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane content and the structure‐function related on the dielectric property and hydrophobicity, three kinds of poly(aryl ether sulfone)s (PAESs) random terpolymer with different chemistry structure at variable polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane content in the main chain are prepared. The structures of PAESs are characterized by infrared (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WXRD) spectra. The results show that the dielectric constant initially increases then decrease to 2.68 at 100%‐double‐decker silsesquioxane (DDSQ)‐PAES(molar content of DDSQ = 100%) at 1 MHz. The contact angle increased to 97.5° at 100%‐DDSQ‐PAES. While the chemical structure of organic chains also plays an important role on thermostability, dielectric, and hydrophobic properties. The results are discussed and interpreted in detail. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of flexible and elastic porous tubular PTMC scaffolds for vascular tissue engineering
Authors: Guo Z. , Grijpma D. W. , Poot A. A.
Published: September 2016

Vascular grafts with an inner diameter less than 6 mm are urgently needed due to the increasing prevalence of vascular disease. In this study, tubular scaffolds for vascular tissue engineering were fabricated by photo‐crosslinking of acrylate‐functionalized poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) macromers of different molecular weights in a glass mold. Porous structures were prepared by means of salt leaching. Tubular scaffolds were obtained with an inner diameter of 3 mm, a wall thickness of 1 mm, and a length of 4.5 cm. Pore sizes ranged from 0 to 290 µm, and the porosity was around 70%. The pores were homogeneously distributed and interconnected. PTMC macromers with a molecular weight of 4, 8, 13, 17, and 22 kg/mol were used. With increasing PTMC macromer molecular weight from 4 to 22 kg/mol, the E‐modulus and maximum tensile strength of the scaffolds in the radial direction increased from 0.56 to 1.12 MPa and 0.12 to 0.55 MPa, respectively. Stress–strain curves for scaffolds made of 13, 17, and 22 kg/mol PTMC macromers showed a “toe” region characteristic for native arteries, followed by a linear increase until the maximum stress was reached. The E‐moduli of the latter scaffolds are comparable to those of native arteries, whereas the maximum tensile strengths are approximately fourfold lower. This can be improved, however, by cell seeding in the porous scaffolds and subsequent mechanical stimulation in a bioreactor. It is concluded that the porous tubular scaffolds made of 13, 17, and 22 kg/mol PTMC macromers are suitable scaffolds for vascular tissue engineering. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fabricating porous, photo‐crosslinked poly(trimethylene carbonate) membranes using temperature‐induced phase separation
Authors: Pasman Thijs , Grijpma Dirk W. , Stamatialis Dimitrios F. , Poot André A.
Published: September 2016

The recent development of lungs‐on‐chips is a major advancement in lung disease research. However, the materials used for the membranes in these chips, e.g. poly(dimethyl siloxane) and silicon, are not ideal. This study uses the more biocompatible and mechanically favorable polymer poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC). Porous membranes were made of high molecular weight linear PTMC (250,000 g/mol) via temperature‐induced phase separation with ethylene carbonate, followed by ultraviolet (UV)‐light crosslinking with pentaerythritol triacrylate and Irgacure 2959. Membrane morphology and crosslinking efficacy was investigated. Membranes with micrometer‐sized pores could be made. There was variation between the different membrane sides in terms of pore size and distribution. Cooling during UV‐light crosslinking resulted in more homogeneous membrane pores, both in size and distribution, and raised the gel content from 48% to 73%, which can be further enhanced by adjustment of the UV treatment or the amount of crosslinking agents. All membranes were highly permeable to water suggesting that nutrient transport, when used with cells, is not limited by the membranes. Here, we show the development of thin and porous PTMC membranes for lungs‐on‐chips, Transwell® inserts and other cell culturing applications. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of selected process parameters on changes of the fiber orientation in unidirectional reinforced thermoplastics during a hot pressing process
Authors: Blei Rico , Möbius Teresa , Pérez Camilo , Osswald Tim A. , Modler Niels
Published: September 2016

The research described in this paper is part of SFB 639 “Textile‐reinforced composite components for function integrating multi‐material design in complex lightweight applications.” In this study, changes in fiber orientation of unidirectional (UD) aligned glass polypropylene hybrid yarn were investigated. A new model for simulating changes in fiber orientation of unidirectional reinforced thermoplastics during a hot pressing process was developed. The material observed during this study is a hybrid yarn made out of homogenous aligned glass and polypropylene filaments. The mechanistic model, which was used to simulate the fiber behavior, allows the user to define different input data, such as velocity, vorticity, and viscosity of the molten polymer as well as fiber radius, initial fiber positions and fiber stiffness to characterize material properties. To determine fiber orientations, a program was written in MATLAB. Hence, it is possible to calculate the angle of any desired segment at any point of time during the hot pressing process. Thereby, it was feasible to compare the numerical obtained changes in fiber orientation with those measured during the experiments conducted at the end of the research. The post‐processing algorithm was used to determine the effects of selected processing parameters and model parameters on the fiber behavior respectively. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2241–2249, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Maternal obesity and neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in offspring
Authors: Edlow Andrea G.
Published: September 2016

There is a growing body of evidence from both human epidemiologic and animal studies that prenatal and lactational exposure to maternal obesity and high‐fat diet are associated with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in offspring. These disorders include cognitive impairment, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, cerebral palsy, anxiety and depression, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. This review synthesizes human and animal data linking maternal obesity and high‐fat diet consumption to abnormal fetal brain development and neurodevelopmental and psychiatric morbidity in offspring. In addition, it highlights key mechanisms by which maternal obesity and maternal diet might impact fetal and offspring neurodevelopment, including neuroinflammation; increased oxidative stress, dysregulated insulin, glucose, and leptin signaling; dysregulated serotonergic and dopaminergic signaling; and perturbations in synaptic plasticity. Finally, the review summarizes available evidence regarding investigational therapeutic approaches to mitigate the harmful effects of maternal obesity on fetal and offspring neurodevelopment. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temporal evaluation of the anti‐tumor efficiency of plasma‐activated media
Authors: Mohades Soheila , Barekzi Nazir , Razavi Hamid , Maruthamuthu Venkat , Laroussi Mounir
Published: September 2016

Plasma‐activated media (PAM) can be as effective as direct plasma treatment in killing cancer cells. PAM is produced by exposing liquid cell culture media to low temperature plasma. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in the aqueous state play key role in the anti‐tumor effects of PAM. The effectiveness of PAM is highly dependent upon the dose of reactive species. The concentrations of reactive species and consequently the effectiveness of PAM decreases over time after plasma exposure. In this paper, the effect of PAM on the viability of SCaBER cells, originally obtained from a bladder squamous cell carcinoma, is shown and its efficiency at different aging times is evaluated. To investigate the selective effect of plasma on normal epithelial cells, MDCK (Madin‐Darby Canine Kidney) cells from normal epithelial tissue of a dog kidney were treated by PAM. The concentrations of hydrogen peroxide at different times after plasma exposure were measured. Our findings indicate that there is a correlation between PAM efficiency and H2O2 concentration, as both decrease over time.
Thaw Subsidence in Undisturbed Tundra Landscapes, Barrow, Alaska, 1962–2015
Authors: Streletskiy Dmitry A. , Shiklomanov Nikolay I. , Little Jonathon D. , Nelson Frederick E. , Brown Jerry , Nyland Kelsey E. , Klene Anna E.
Published: September 2016

In some regions underlain by ice‐rich permafrost, a consistent, long‐term increase in ALT under changing climatic conditions is not supported by observations. The apparent lack of ALT may be attributed to soil consolidation from thawing of the uppermost ice‐rich permafrost and subsidence of the ground surface. Four plots established in 1962 at Barrow, Alaska, were re‐instrumented in 2003 and surveyed annually using differential GPS technology, accompanied by active‐layer probing. Elevation change from 1962 to 2003 was within the interannual variability of the 2003–15 period, indicating net stability in the area. Over the 2003–15 period, however, all four plots experienced subsidence trends of 0.4–1.0 cm/year, resulting in a net elevation change of 8–15 cm. Warmer winters and increased snow depth during this period decreased the potential for frost heave. Warmer summers resulted in thaw penetration into the ice‐rich transient layer and ice wedges, leading to the net subsidence in recent years. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CD163 levels, pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokine secretion of monocytes in children with pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Aktas Cetin Esin , Pur Ozyigit Leyla , Gelmez Yusuf Metin , Cakir Erkan , Gedik Ahmet Hakan , Deniz Gunnur
Published: September 2016

Objectives

Childhood tuberculosis (TB) comprises an important part of the world's TB burden. Monocytes set up the early phase of infection because of innate immune responses. Understanding the changes in monocyte subsets during multisystem infectious diseases may be important for the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the monocyte phenotype together with the cytokine secretion profiles of children with pulmonary tuberculosis.

Study Design

Thirteen patients with pulmonary TB were enrolled as study group, and 14 healthy subjects as control group. Surface expressions of CD16, CD14, CD62L, CD163, CCR2, and HLA‐DR of monocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry. The presence of IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, IL‐10, IL‐12, IL‐23, and soluble form of CD163 (sCD163) in the antigen‐ and LPS‐stimulated whole blood culture supernatants were detected using ELISA and Luminex.

Results

Higher percentages of CD14++CD16+ and CD14+CD16++ monocyte subsets, and CCR2, CD62L and CD163 expression on circulating monocytes in children with pulmonary tuberculosis were obtained. Diminished levels of ESAT‐6/CFP‐10‐induced IL‐10 and increased levels of TB‐antigen and LPS‐stimulated sCD163 were found in childhood with pulmonary TB.

Conclusions

High expression of CD14++CD16+, CD14+CD16++, CD14+CCR2+, and CD14+CD62L+ cells in childhood TB, and monocyte‐derived cytokines reflected both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory profiles. Higher sCD163 and CD14+CD163+ monocytes might help physicians in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary TB in children. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:675–683. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intraprostatic Reflux of Urine Induces Inflammation in a Rat
Authors: Funahashi Yasuhito , Majima Tsuyoshi , Matsukawa Yoshihisa , Yamamoto Tokunori , Yoshida Masaki , Gotoh Momokazu
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

We examined whether urine reflux into the prostate can induce prostatic inflammation in a rat and evaluated the effect of α1‐adrenoreceptor antagonist.

METHODS

Experiment 1: Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were injected with 500 µl of Evans Blue through the urethral orifice. Intravesical pressure was measured, and the prostate was excised to evaluate urine reflux. Experiment 2: Rats were injected with 500 µl urine or saline (control) from the urethral orifice. Silodosin (200 µg/kg/day) was administered to the silodosin group. We evaluated histopathology, the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers of the prostate on day 7, after assessing the prostatic microcirculation and cystometrogram.

RESULTS

Experiment 1: The histopathology showed that Evans Blue instilled through the urethral orifice entered the prostatic ducts. Intravesical pressure during Evans Blue instillation was 47.7 ± 1.6 cmH2O (mean ± standard error). Experiment 2: On day 7 after urine instillation through the urethral orifice, histopathology showed infiltrated inflammatory cells in the peri‐glandular stroma. Inflammation‐associated proteins (IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNFα) were upregulated in the urine‐instilled rats but not in the silodosin group. Erythrocyte speed on the prostatic surface, immunostaining for hypoxyprobe, and quantification of oxidative stress markers (MDA and HIF‐1α) demonstrated prostatic hypoxia in the urine‐instilled rats, which was ameliorated in the silodosin group. Cystometrogram revealed a shorter intercontraction interval in the urine‐instilled rats, which was prolonged in the silodosin group.

CONCLUSIONS

Urine reflux into the prostatic duct induces abacterial prostatitis. Silodosin relieved prostatic inflammation and bladder overactivity by increasing microcirculation in the prostate. Prostate 77:164–172, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beyond Seed and Soil: Understanding and Targeting Metastatic Prostate Cancer; Report From the 2016 Coffey–Holden Prostate Cancer Academy Meeting
Authors: Miyahira Andrea K. , Roychowdhury Sameek , Goswami Sangeeta , Ippolito Joseph E. , Priceman Saul J. , Pritchard Colin C. , Sfanos Karen S. , Subudhi Sumit K. , Simons Jonathan W. , Pienta Kenneth J. , Soule Howard R.
Published: September 2016

INTRODUCTION

The 2016 Coffey–Holden Prostate Cancer Academy (CHPCA) Meeting, “Beyond Seed and Soil: Understanding and Targeting Metastatic Prostate Cancer,” was held from June 23 to June 26, 2016, in Coronado, California.

METHODS

For the 4th year in a row, the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) hosted the CHPCA Meeting, a think tank‐structured scientific conference, which focuses on a specific topic of critical unmet need on the biology and treatment of advanced prostate cancer. The 2016 CHPCA Meeting was attended by 71 investigators from prostate cancer and other fields, who discussed the biology, study methodologies, treatment strategies, and critical unmet needs concerning metastatic prostate cancer, with the ultimate goal of advancing strategies to treat and eliminate this disease.

RESULTS

The major topics of discussion included: the molecular landscape and molecular heterogeneity of metastatic prostate cancer, the role of the metastatic microenvironment, optimizing immunotherapy in metastatic prostate cancer, learning from exceptional responders and non‐responders, targeting DNA repair deficiency in advanced prostate cancer, developing and applying novel biomarkers and imaging techniques, and potential roles for the microbiome in prostate cancer.

DISCUSSION

This article reviews the topics presented and discussions held at the CHPCA Meeting, with a focus on the unknowns and next steps needed to advance our understanding of the biology and most effective treatment strategies for metastatic prostate cancer. Prostate 77:123–144, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Some practical considerations in three‐arm non‐inferiority trial design
Authors: Zhou Ming , Kundu Sudeep
Published: September 2016

Non‐inferiority trials aim to demonstrate whether an experimental therapy is not unacceptably worse than an active reference therapy already in use. When applicable, a three‐arm non‐inferiority trial, including an experiment therapy, an active reference therapy, and a placebo, is often recommended to assess assay sensitivity and internal validity of a trial. In this paper, we share some practical considerations based on our experience from a phase III three‐arm non‐inferiority trial. First, we discuss the determination of the total sample size and its optimal allocation based on the overall power of the non‐inferiority testing procedure and provide ready‐to‐use R code for implementation. Second, we consider the non‐inferiority goal of ‘capturing all possibilities’ and show that it naturally corresponds to a simple two‐step testing procedure. Finally, using this two‐step non‐inferiority testing procedure as an example, we compare extensively commonly used frequentist p ‐value methods with the Bayesian posterior probability approach. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Macroinvertebrate Functional Trait Responses to Chemical Pollution in Agricultural–Industrial Landscapes
Authors: Pallottini M. , Cappelletti D. , Fabrizi A. , Gaino E. , Goretti E. , Selvaggi R. , Céréghino R.
Published: September 2016

Both physical–chemical and biological indicators are used to assess the ecological health of ecosystems. The functional trait composition of communities has the potential to predict the impact of environmental change on ecosystems, yet, we miss evidence that information on pollution can be used to forecast the functional responses of freshwater communities. We used chemical and ecological data collected in the Nestore river basin (Central Italy) to test whether (i) there are generalities in the response of macroinvertebrate functional diversity to river pollution; (ii) water pollution filters certain functional traits and (iii) traits do better than chemical analyses at revealing ecological stress in rivers. Due to interactions with hydrology, chemical variables showed higher seasonal variation at impacted sites, so occasional water samples represented snapshots. Functional traits did well at detecting water pollution by various chemicals, and there was a clear shift of trait combinations from unimpacted to impacted sites. Anthropogenic disturbances homogenized benthic communities in terms of taxonomic and functional composition, both in space (impacted sites) and time (seasons). Traits related to feeding habits (mainly reliance on fine particulate organic matter) and tolerance to organic pollution were prevalent at impacted reaches, and functional trait compositions were more stable than water chemistry over seasons because they integrate environmental conditions over longer time periods. Functional traits can play a relevant role in the bioassessment of polluted river ecosystems, even under low to moderate disturbance. Trait‐based assessment can be complemented by chemical analyses, notably at highly polluted sites where biological diversity drops to its lowest levels. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aging behavior of dielectric barrier discharge‐modified Twaron fibers in different storage environments
Authors: Jia Caixia , Wang Qian , Chen Ping , Yu Qi , Li Dapeng
Published: September 2016

The aging behavior of air dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatment was investigated by storing the treated fibers respectively in air and in the oxidizing environment. Based on several testing methods, this study led us to the conclusion that the aging effects in the oxidizing environment were less obvious than that in air. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that the decay of fiber surface polar groups was more remarkable for fibers aged in air. The atomic force microscopy photos showed that the further oxidation generated by the oxidizing chemicals such as ozone increased fiber surface roughness. Thus, there was no obvious reduction in the wettability of the modified fibers during the aging process in the oxidizing environment. These changes in surface properties could explain the variation in interlaminar shear strength of Twaron fiber reinforced composites. After the fibers were aged in air for 48 h, interlaminar shear strength of the composites declined by 18.4% while had a decrease of only 11.4% after aging for 48 h in the case of the oxidizing environment. The results were supported by the water absorption test, which also reflected the effects of different storage conditions on the composite interfacial adhesion, and showed the inhibitory effect of the oxidizing environment on plasma aging. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A tale of two effects: Using longitudinal data to compare within‐ and between‐firm effects
Authors: Certo S. Trevis , Withers Michael C. , Semadeni Matthew
Published: September 2016

Research summary: We investigate the theoretical and empirical implications of longitudinal data in strategy research. Theoretically, longitudinal data allow strategy researchers to distinguish between relationships among constructs within versus between firms. Empirically, longitudinal data contain information about two types of relationships: within‐ and between‐firm. We describe how the hybrid approach, a technique used in other disciplines, disentangles within‐ and between‐firm relationships. We reexamine a study of research and development expenditures to illustrate the advantages of the hybrid approach. Based on our theory and reexamination, we offer a series of recommendations for researchers using longitudinal data to test theoretical perspectives.

Managerial summary: Strategy research examines two sources of variation over time: what is occurring within the firm (e.g., Do firms perform better over time when investing more in R&D?) and what is occurring between firms (e.g., Do firms investing more in R&D outperform firms investing less in R&D?). These two sources may be similar or different in both direction and magnitude, and when significant differences exist in either direction or magnitude, researchers must carefully consider the implication of these differences to their theoretical rationale and statistical testing. Our article highlights the benefits of theorizing and testing these two sources of variance, providing scholars the ability to broaden both the theoretical and empirical contribution of their research. This distinction is important to how research informs managerial decision making. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Psycho‐Educational Intervention for People with a Family History of Depression: Pilot Results
Authors: Meiser Bettina , Peate Michelle , Levitan Charlene , Mitchell Philip B , Trevena Lyndal , Barlow‐Stewart Kristine , Dobbins Timothy , Christensen Helen , Sherman Kerry A , Dunlop Kate , Schofield Peter R
Published: September 2016

We developed and pilot‐tested the first online psycho‐educational intervention that specifically targets people with a family history of depression (‘LINKS’). LINKS provides genetic risk information and evidence‐rated information on preventive strategies for depression and incorporates a risk assessment tool and several videos using professional actors. LINKS was pilot‐tested in the general practitioner (GP) setting. The patient sample included people with a family history of at least one first‐degree relative (FDR) with major depressive disorder (MDD) or bipolar disorder (BD). Patients attending participating GP practices were invited to enroll in the study by letter from their GP. Patients who self‐identified as having at least one first‐degree relative (FDR) with MDD or BD were eligible. Patients completed questionnaires, pre‐post viewing LINKS, with measures assessing satisfaction, relevance, emotional impact and perceived improvement of understanding. Six GP practices participated, and 24 patients completed both questionnaires. Of these, all reported that they were satisfied or very satisfied with LINKS, and 74 % reported that LINKS met their expectations, and 21 % that it exceeded their expectations. LINKS was judged highly acceptable by this sample of GP attendees, and results indicate that an assessment of its effectiveness in a larger controlled trial is warranted.
Synthesis of Biodegradable Pyrazole, Pyran, Pyrrole, Pyrimidine and Chromene Derivatives having Medical and Surface Activities
Authors: El‐Sayed Refat
Published: September 2016

In this research, stearic acid and propylene oxide are used to synthesize biodegradable heterocyles (pyrazole, pyran, chromene, and pyrimidine) to improve their solubility and lower their toxicity. The chemical structure of these surfactants was confirmed using IR, 1H, and 13C NMR spectra. Some of these compounds have higher activity than commercial antibiotics and may be useful in the pharmaceutical industry.
Sex biology contributions to vulnerability to Alzheimer's disease: A think tank convened by the Women's Alzheimer's Research Initiative
Authors: Snyder Heather M. , Asthana Sanjay , Bain Lisa , Brinton Roberta , Craft Suzanne , Dubal Dena B. , Espeland Mark A. , Gatz Margaret , Mielke Michelle M. , Raber Jacob , Rapp Peter R. , Yaffe Kristine , Carrillo Maria C.
Published: September 2016

More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease (AD) today, and nearly two‐thirds of Americans with AD are women. This sex difference may be due to the higher longevity women generally experience; however, increasing evidence suggests that longevity alone is not a sufficient explanation and there may be other factors at play. The Alzheimer's Association convened an expert think tank to focus on the state of the science and level of evidence around gender and biological sex differences for AD, including the knowledge gaps and areas of science that need to be more fully addressed. This article summarizes the think tank discussion, moving forward a research agenda and funding program to better understand the biological underpinnings of sex‐ and gender‐related disparities of risk for AD.
Effects of bileaflet mechanical heart valve orientation on fluid stresses and coronary flow
Authors: Haya Laura , Tavoularis Stavros
Published: September 2016

The effects of the orientation of a bileaflet mechanical heart valve on the viscous and turbulent stresses in the flow past it and on the flow rate in the right coronary artery were investigatedin vitroin a mock circulation loop, using a fluid that matched the kinematic viscosity of blood and the refractive index of the aorta model. Measurements were made past the valve mounted in three orientations at the base of an anatomical aorta model, within physiological aortic flow conditions. At peak flow, the turbulent stresses were on average 21 % higher and viscous stresses exceeding 10 Pa (namely of a level that has been associated with blood cell damage) were 30 % more frequent when the valve was oriented with its plane of symmetry normal to the aorta’s plane of curvature than when it was parallel to it. This was attributed to the impingement of a lateral jet on the concave wall of the aorta and to steeper velocity gradients resulting from the geometrical imbalance of the sinuses relative to the valve’s central jet when the valve was in the ‘normal’ orientation. Very high levels of turbulent stresses were found to occur distal to the corners of the valve’s lateral orifices. The bulk flow rate in the right coronary artery was highest when the valve was positioned with its central orifice aligned with the artery’s opening. The coronary flow rate was directly affected by the size, orientation and time evolution of the vortex in the sinus, all of which were sensitive to the valve’s orientation.
Prenatal food restriction induces poor-quality articular cartilage in female rat offspring fed a post-weaning high-fat diet and its intra-uterine programming mechanisms
Authors: Tan Yang , Wu Yunpeng , Ni Qubo , Deng Yu , Li Jing , Wang Linlong , Shen Lang , Liu Yansong , Magdalou Jacques , Wang Hui , Chen Liaobin
Published: September 2016

Epidemiological data show that osteoarthritis (OA) is significantly associated with lower birth weight, and that OA may be a type of fetal-originated adult disease. The present study aimed to investigate the prenatal food-restriction (PFR) effect on the quality of articular cartilage in female offspring to explore the underlying mechanisms of fetal-originated OA. Maternal rats were fed a restricted diet from gestational day (GD) 11 to 20 to induce intra-uterine growth retardation. Female fetuses and female adult offspring fed a post-weaning high-fat diet were killed at GD20 and postnatal week 24, respectively. Serum and knee cartilage samples from fetuses and adult female offspring were collected and examined for cholesterol metabolism and histology. Fetal serum corticosterone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in the PFR group were lower than those of the control, but the serum cholesterol level was not changed. The lower expression of IGF-1 in the PFR group lasted into adulthood. The expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) genes, including type II collagen, aggrecan and cholesterol efflux genes including liver X receptor, were significantly induced, but the ATP-binding-cassette transporter A1 was unchanged. PFR could induce a reduction in ECM synthesis and impaired cholesterol efflux in female offspring, and eventually led to poor quality of articular cartilage and OA.
Autonomy and integration in complex parasite life cycles
Authors: BENESH DANIEL P.
Published: September 2016

Complex life cycles are common in free-living and parasitic organisms alike. The adaptive decoupling hypothesis postulates that separate life cycle stages have a degree of developmental and genetic autonomy, allowing them to be independently optimized for dissimilar, competing tasks. That is, complex life cycles evolved to facilitate functional specialization. Here, I review the connections between the different stages in parasite life cycles. I first examine evolutionary connections between life stages, such as the genetic coupling of parasite performance in consecutive hosts, the interspecific correlations between traits expressed in different hosts, and the developmental and functional obstacles to stage loss. Then, I evaluate how environmental factors link life stages through carryover effects, where stressful larval conditions impact parasites even after transmission to a new host. There is evidence for both autonomy and integration across stages, so the relevant question becomes how integrated are parasite life cycles and through what mechanisms? By highlighting how genetics, development, selection and the environment can lead to interdependencies among successive life stages, I wish to promote a holistic approach to studying complex life cycle parasites and emphasize that what happens in one stage is potentially highly relevant for later stages.
‘BETTER OFF DEAD THAN DISFIGURED’? THE CHALLENGES OF FACIAL INJURY IN THE PRE-MODERN PAST
Authors: Skinner Patricia
Published: September 2016

This paper argues that facial disfigurement has been neglected in the historiography of medieval Europe, and suggests some reasons for this oversight before examining the evidence from legal and narrative texts. One reason for this may be the lack of first-person accounts of being disfigured, preventing historians from accessing the experience of being disfigured. By situating the medieval examples within a wider frame of modern responses to disfigurement, it becomes apparent that whilst medical advances have assisted in restoring the damaged face, social responses to facial difference remain largely negative.
Wayfinding by Means of Maps in Real-world Settings: A Critical Review
Authors: Bjerva Trine , Sigurjónsson Thorsteinn
Published: September 2016

This critical review addresses 26 studies of Wayfinding conducted in a real-world setting (large-scale), and with subjects using a map or an aerial photograph in their navigation. The purpose of the review is to summarise how previous surveys have been conducted and to provide some methodological advice for future research. Research design has consequently been the main priority, emphasising methods, measures, participants, context and types of map. Both qualitative and quantitative studies should be initiated, but the lack of research is significant within quantitative studies, the link between laboratory-based and real-world studies, studies where the subjects have been children with map experience and adult novices, and studies conducted in complex settings. Type of map appears to be an important determinant of performance and should be varied according to age and level of skills. Alignment of a map could be a possible source of error.
‘I Wanna See Some History’: Recent Writing on British Punk
Authors: WILKINSON DAVID , WORLEY MATTHEW , STREET JOHN
Published: September 2016

Tucked away on the b-side of the Sex Pistols’ third single, ‘Pretty Vacant’ (1977), is a cover version of The Stooges’ ‘No Fun’. The song had long been a staple of the Pistols’ live set; on record, however, Johnny Rotten chose to open the track with a diatribe against those attempting to imbue the punk culture he helped instigate with broader socio-economic, cultural or political implications. ‘Here we go now’, he snarled, ‘a sociology lecture, with a bit of psychology, a bit of neurology, a bit of fuckology’.
Successful replacement of the systemic tricuspid valve with a mechanical valve in a 3-month-old boy with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries having a dysplastic tricuspid valve
Authors: Asada Dai , Ikeda Kazuyuki , Yamagishi Masaaki
Published: September 2016

There are a few reports of successful replacement of the left-sided systemic tricuspid valve with a mechanical valve in small infants with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries having Ebstein’s anomaly. Tricuspid valve replacement is the preferred option when pulmonary artery banding, performed as a prelude to performing the double-switch operation, is not feasible because of severe heart failure caused by tricuspid regurgitation.
Zinc-Containing Restorations Create Amorphous Biogenic Apatite at the Carious Dentin Interface: A X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) Crystal Lattice Analysis
Authors: Toledano Manuel , Aguilera Fátima S. , López-López Modesto T. , Osorio Estrella , Toledano-Osorio Manuel , Osorio Raquel
Published: September 2016

The aim of this research was to assess the ability of amalgam restorations to induce amorphous mineral precipitation at the caries-affected dentin substrate. Sound and caries-affected dentin surfaces were subjected to both Zn-free and Zn-containing dental amalgam restorations. Specimens were submitted to thermocycling (100,000 cycles/5°C–55°C, 3 months). Dentin surfaces were studied by atomic force microscopy (nanoroughness), X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive analysis, for physical and morphological surface characterization. Zn-containing amalgam placement reduced crystallinity, crystallite size, and grain size of calcium phosphate crystallites at the dentin surface. Both microstrain and nanoroughness were augmented in caries-affected dentin restored with Zn-containing amalgams. Caries-affected dentin showed the shortest mineral crystallites (11.04 nm), when Zn-containing amalgams were used for restorations, probably leading to a decrease of mechanical properties which might favor crack propagation and deformation. Sound dentin restored with Zn-free amalgams exhibited a substantial increase in length of grain particles (12.44 nm) embedded into dentin crystallites. Zn-containing amalgam placement creates dentin mineralization and the resultant mineral was amorphous in nature. Amorphous calcium phosphate provides a local ion-rich environment, which is considered favorable for in situ generation of prenucleation clusters, promotong further dentin remineralization.
Integration of sheep grazing for cover crop termination into market gardens: Agronomic consequences of an ecologically based management strategy
Authors: McKenzie Sean C. , Goosey Hayes B. , O'Neill Kevin M. , Menalled Fabian D.
Published: September 2016

Cover crops are suites of non-marketable plants grown to improve soil tilth and reduce erosion. Despite these agronomic benefits, the use of cover crops is often limited because they do not provide a direct source of revenue for producers. Integrating livestock to graze cover crops could provide both an expeditious method for cover crop termination and an alternative source of revenue. However, there has been little research on the agronomic impacts of grazing for cover crop termination, especially in horticultural market-gardens. We conducted a 3-year study comparing the effects of sheep grazing to terminate a four species cover crop (buckwheat, sweetclover, peas and beets) with those of mowing on soil quality indicators, cover crop termination efficacy, and subsequent cash-crop yields. In addition, we tested the nutritional quality of the cover crop as forage. Compared with mowing, sheep grazing did not affect soil chemistry, temperature or moisture. Our study demonstrates that sheep grazing removed more cover crop biomass than mowing at termination. The assessment of nutritional indices suggests that the four-species cover crop mixture could provide high-quality forage with a potential value of US$144.00–481.80 ha−1of direct revenue as a grazing lease. Cash-crop yields did not differ between previously grazed and previously mowed plots in the subsequent growing season. We conclude that integrating sheep grazing into market vegetable garden operations could make cover crops more economically viable without having adverse effects on subsequent cash crops.
Traumatic Stress Symptoms, Forgiveness, and Meaning in Life in Four Traumatized Regions of the World
Authors: Toussaint Loren L. , Kalayjian Ani , Herman Kaley , Hein Alexandra , Maseko Njabulo , Diakonova-Curtis Daria
Published: September 2016

The present study examined self-reported levels of traumatic stress symptoms, forgiveness, and meaning in life in residents of regions experiencing ongoing violence (Middle East), recent past violence (Africa), distant past violence and disaster (Caucasus), and recent natural disaster (Caribbean). The sample included 900 individuals from Africa (Kenya n = 149; Burundi n = 104; Rwanda n = 57), the Middle East (Israel n = 34; Jordan n = 22; Palestine n = 220), the Caucasus (Armenia n = 109), and the Caribbean (Haiti n = 205). Analyses of covariance controlling for demographic factors revealed significant regional differences. Violent ongoing trauma in the Middle East and recent violent trauma in African countries were associated with higher traumatic stress symptoms than in the Caribbean where trauma was nonviolent and in the Caucasus region where trauma was quite distant. Forgiveness levels were lowest among participants in the Middle East and highest in Africa. Meaning in life was also lowest in the Middle East. There is wide diversity in the sociocultural traumatic events and calamities that befall societies; those events have unique impacts on survivors’ levels of traumatic stress symptoms, forgiveness, and meaning in life. Counselors, clergy, aid-workers, and policymakers should be apprised of the range of sociocultural traumatic experiences and associated differential outcomes.