bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Little Evidence for Usefulness of Biomarkers for Predicting Successful Dose Reduction or Discontinuation of a Biologic Agent in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tweehuysen Lieke , van den Ende Cornelia H. , Beeren Fenna M. M. , Been Evelien M. J. , van den Hoogen Frank H. J. , den Broeder Alfons A.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To systematically review studies addressing prediction of successful dose reduction or discontinuation of a biologic agent in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies that examined the predictive value of biomarkers for successful dose reduction or discontinuation of a biologic agent in RA. Two reviewers independently selected studies, and extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. A biomarker was classified as a “potential predictor” if the univariate association was either strong (odds ratio or hazard ratio >2.0 or <0.5) or statistically significant. For biomarkers that were studied multiple times, qualitative best‐evidence synthesis was performed separately for the prediction of successful dose reduction and discontinuation. Biomarkers that were defined in ≥75% of the studies as potential predictors were regarded as “predictor” for the purposes of our study.

Results

Of 3,029 nonduplicate articles initially searched, 16 articles regarding 15 cohorts were included in the present study. Overall, 17 biomarkers were studied multiple times for the prediction of successful dose reduction, and 33 for the prediction of successful discontinuation of a biologic agent. Three predictors were identified: higher adalimumab trough level for successful dose reduction and lower Sharp/van der Heijde erosion score and shorter symptom duration at the start of a biologic agent for successful discontinuation.

Conclusion

The predictive value of a wide variety of biomarkers for successful dose reduction or discontinuation of biologic treatment in RA has been investigated. We identified only 3 biomarkers as predictors, in just 2 studies. The strength of the evidence is limited by the low quality of the included studies and the likelihood of reporting bias and multiple testing.
Increased Activity of the Chondrocyte Translational Apparatus Accompanies Osteoarthritic Changes in Human and Rodent Knee Cartilage
Authors: Katsara Olga , Attur Mukundan , Ruoff Rachel , Abramson Steven B. , Kolupaeva Victoria
Published: October 2016

Objective

Degeneration of articular cartilage is central to the pathology of osteoarthritis (OA). However, the molecular mechanisms leading to these irreversible changes are still poorly understood. This study was undertaken to investigate how changes in the chondrocyte translational apparatus may contribute to the development and progression of knee OA.

Methods

Articular cartilage from the knees of normal healthy subjects and patients with OA was used to analyze the activity of different components of the translational machinery. Chondrocytes isolated from lesional and nonlesional areas of the human OA cartilage were used to estimate the relative rate of protein synthesis by metabolic labeling. Experimental OA was induced by transection of the anterior cruciate ligament of rats to investigate changes in the translational apparatus associated with OA. The role of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) signaling was assessed in vitro using rat articular chondrocytes. In human or rodent knee cartilage, messenger RNA expression was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and protein levels were determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.

Results

Several novel traits of OA chondrocytes were identified, including up‐regulation of the serine/threonine kinases Akt‐2 and Akt‐3 at the posttranscriptional level and an increased rate of total protein synthesis, likely attributable to inactivation of eukaryotic initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4E‐BP1), a known repressor of cap‐dependent translation. Inactivation of 4E‐BP1 was dependent on the activity of mechanistic target of rapamycin and was crucial for the up‐regulation of protein synthesis in general and expression of matrix metalloproteinase 13 and ADAMTS‐5 in particular. In addition, treatment of articular chondrocytes with IL‐1β led to inactivation of 4E‐BP1 and up‐regulation of protein synthesis.

Conclusion

Precise control of protein synthesis is vital for cartilage homeostasis, and its dysregulation contributes to the molecular pathology of OA. The results of this study therefore identify a novel set of potential therapeutic targets to ameliorate the effects of knee OA.
A PEGylated bovine hemoglobin as a potent hemoglobin‐based oxygen carrier
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Linli , Yu Weili , Gao Dawei , You Guoxing , Li Penglong , Zhang Shan , Zhang Jun , Hu Tao , Zhao Lian , Zhou Hong
Published: October 2016

Hemoglobin (Hb)‐based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) have been used as blood substitutes in surgery medicine and oxygen therapeutics for ischemic stroke. As a potent HBOC, the PEGylated Hb has received much attention for its oxygen delivery and plasma expanding ability. Two PEGylated Hbs, Euro‐Hb, and MP4 have been developed for clinical trials, using human adult hemoglobin (HbA) as the original substrate. However, HbA was obtained from outdated human blood and its quantity available from this source may not be sufficient for mass production of PEGylated HbA. In contrast, bovine Hb (bHb) has no quantity constraints for its ample resource. Thus, bHb is of potential to function as an alternative substrate to obtain a PEGylated bHb (bHb‐PEG). bHb‐PEG was prepared under the same reaction condition as HbA‐PEG, using maleimide chemistry. The structural, functional, solution and physiological properties of bHb‐PEG were determined and compared with those of HbA‐PEG. bHb‐PEG showed higher hydrodynamic volume, colloidal osmotic pressure, viscosity and P50 than HbA‐PEG. The high P50 of bHb can partially compensate the PEGylation‐induced perturbation in the R to T state transition of HbA. bHb‐PEG was non‐vasoactive and could efficiently recover the mean arterial pressure of mice suffering from hemorrhagic shock. Thus, bHb‐PEG is expected to function as a potent HBOC for its high oxygen delivery and strong plasma expanding ability. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:252–260, 2017
Couples' narratives of shared‐self, possessions and consumption experiences
Authors: Wong Phoebe , Hogg Margaret K. , Vanharanta Markus
Published: October 2016

How consumers use possessions and consumption to enact their shared‐self has been underexplored in earlier consumer research. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the emergence of couple‐level (or partnered) shared‐self. A narrative research method was used in Hong Kong, which allowed for an inter‐temporal narrative about the informants' important possessions. Our findings revealed key characteristics regarding the way in which informants' interpretations of shared selves developed over time. This included sharing and negotiating resources (e.g., a house or money) with their partners, integrating similar perspectives (e.g., interests and lifestyle) to their partners', and including their partners as part of the self. This study provides the basis for future research to see how these findings hold up at other stages of partnered relationships. This research provides a conceptualization – a temporal model of couples' shared‐self – that could contribute to and enhance the existing literature on the interrelationship between possessions and the extended self. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The moderating effects of financial broad‐scope trust on consumer knowledge, cognitive effort, and financial healthiness
Authors: Hansen Torben
Published: October 2016

Substantial research results suggest the global financial crisis has negatively affected consumers' trust in financial service providers. Notably, trust not only relates to consumer trust in individual companies but also relates to the broader business context in which consumers may plan and carry out their financial behavior. This latter form of trust can be referred to as “broad‐scope” trust (BST). BST is especially important in a society context because lack of BST may reduce financial market dynamism, competition, and productivity. Consequently, financial service providers assume an important social responsibility in order to develop BST. Unfortunately, not much is known about the interplay between BST and consumer financial behavior. Based on two surveys comprising 1155 bank consumers and 756 mutual fund investors, respectively, this study investigates the moderating influence of BST on relations between knowledge, cognitive effort, and financial healthiness and also examines the direct influence of BST on cognitive effort and financial healthiness. The results indicate that BST negatively moderates relations between knowledge and financial healthiness and between cognitive effort and financial healthiness. In addition, it is demonstrated that BST negatively influences cognitive effort and positively influences financial healthiness. Our results demonstrate the importance of developing BST as it may ease the burdens put on consumers' financial knowledge and processing capabilities, which in turn may facilitate their financial well‐being. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of 3‐(Substituted Aroyl)‐4‐(3,4,5‐trimethoxyphenyl)‐1H‐pyrrole Derivatives
Authors: Zhan Xiao‐Ping , Lan Lan , Wang Shuai , Zhao Kai , Xin Yu‐Xuan , Qi Qi , Wang Yao‐Lin , Mao Zhen‐Min
Published: October 2016

A series of 3‐(substituted aroyl)‐4‐(3,4,5‐trimethoxyphenyl)‐1H‐pyrrole derivatives were synthesized and determined for their anticancer activity against eleven cancer cell lines and two normal tissue cell lines using MTT assay. Among the synthesized compounds, compound 3f was the most potent compound against A375, CT‐26, HeLa, MGC80‐3, NCI‐H460 and SGC‐7901 cells (IC50 = 8.2 – 31.7 μm); 3g, 3n and 3a were the most potent compounds against CHO (IC50 = 8.2 μm), HCT‐15 (IC50 = 21 μm) and MCF‐7 cells (IC50 = 18.7 μm), respectively. Importantly, all the target compounds showed no cytotoxicity towards the normal tissue cell (IC50 > 100 μm). Thus, these compounds with the potent anticancer activity and low toxicity have potential for the development of new anticancer chemotherapy agents.
Effectively uptake arsenate from water by mesoporous sulphated zirconia: Characterization, adsorption, desorption, and uptake mechanism
Authors: Han Caiyun , Liu Hang , Zhang Liuyi , Deng Jiushuai , Luo Yongming
Published: October 2016

Mesoporous sulphated zirconia (MSZ), prepared by a facile one‐step route, was characterized and served as arsenate adsorbent. The properties of MSZ were characterized by FTIR, N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherm, XRD, and TEM. It was found that SO42− was successfully incorporated into the obtained mesoporous material. Additionally, arsenate adsorption performance was executed by batch experiments. From the results, it was found that adsorption equilibrium data were fitted well to Langmuir‐Freundlich, and the maximum adsorption capacity was 99.23 mg/g at room temperature. The adsorption process obeyed pseudo‐second‐order under the investigated temperature, which indicated that “surface reaction” was the main rate‐limiting step. The uptake performance was not influenced by initial pH for pH in the region of 2.0–10.0. Based on the results of FTIR and the value of adsorption energy, it was demonstrated that ion‐exchange between arsenate species and sulphated groups was the dominant uptake mechanism. On this theory of uptake mechanism, 1.0 mol/L H2SO4 was successfully used to regenerate the spent MSZ. Arsenate removal percentage was still over 80 % after recycling the MSZ 3 times. These results indicated that MSZ possessed a potential application in treating arsenate‐contaminated water.
Superior Activity of Isomorphously Substituted MOFs with MIL‐100(M=Al, Cr, Fe, In, Sc, V) Structure in the Prins Reaction: Impact of Metal Type
Authors: Gómez‐Pozuelo Gema , Cabello Carlos Palomino , Opanasenko Maksym , Horáček Michal , Čejka Jiří
Published: October 2016

The catalytic behavior of isomorphously substituted MIL‐100(M) (M=Al, Cr, Fe, In, Sc, V) is investigated for the synthesis of nopol through the Prins condensation of β‐pinene with paraformaldehyde. The large mesoporous cages of the metal–organic frameworks provide a sustainable confinement for the formation of the target product (100 % selectivity for nopol over all materials studied). MIL‐100(Sc) and MIL‐100(V) exhibit the highest yields (up to 90 %) of nopol after just 20 min from the beginning of the reaction, owing to their high concentrations of accessible Lewis sites possessing intermediate acidity. The high catalytic activity (reaching almost 90 % β‐pinene conversion) even upon decreasing the amount of catalyst from 100 to 25 mg (0.025 and 0.0063 gcatalyst mmolsubstrate−1, respectively), the stability of its structure, and the possibility to use it several times, make MIL‐100(V) a promising material for applications in acid‐catalyzed reactions under mild reaction conditions.
Value Relevance of Stakeholder Engagement: The Influence of National Culture
Authors: Dal Maso Lorenzo , Liberatore Giovanni , Mazzi Francesco
Published: October 2016

Our study investigates whether stakeholder engagement is associated with a firm's valuation and the value relevance of accounting earnings. Since prior literature posits that the economic consequences of such practices may depend on the specific environment in which they are adopted, we also explore whether these associations are affected by the cultural traits of the country in which a firm operates. Based on a worldwide sample of firms for the period 2002 to 2014, we document that stakeholder engagement positively influences market‐to‐book value of equity, without enhancing the value relevance of firm's accounting earnings. Drawing on Schwartz's cultural framework, we show that the results hold only in countries with a low (high) level of embeddedness and hierarchy (mastery). Our study contributes to the literature exploring the economic consequences of non‐financial information and the importance of institutional characteristics for economic outcomes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Spatially dependent biotic and abiotic factors drive survivorship and physical structure of green roof vegetation
Authors: Aloisio Jason M. , Palmer Matthew I. , Giampieri Mario A. , Tuininga Amy R. , Lewis James D.
Published: October 2016

Plant survivorship depends on biotic and abiotic factors that vary at local and regional scales. This survivorship, in turn, has cascading effects on community composition and the physical structure of vegetation. Survivorship of native plant species is variable among populations planted in environmentally stressful habitats like urban roofs, but the degree to which factors at different spatial scales affect survivorship in urban systems is not well understood. We evaluated the effects of biotic and abiotic factors on survivorship, composition, and physical structure of two native perennial species assemblages, one characterized by a mixture of C4grasses and forbs (Hempstead Plains,HP) and one characterized by a mixture of C3grasses and forbs (Rocky Summit,RS), that were initially sown at equal ratios of growth forms (5:1:4; grass, N‐fixing forb and non‐N‐fixing forb) in replicate 2‐m2plots planted on 10 roofs in New York City (New York,USA). Of 24 000 installed plants, 40% survived 23 months after planting. Within‐roof factors explained 71% of variation in survivorship, with biotic (species identity and assemblage) factors accounting for 54% of the overall variation, and abiotic (growing medium depth and plot location) factors explaining 17% of the variation. Among‐roof factors explained 29% of variation in survivorship and increased solar radiation correlated with decreased survivorship. While growing medium properties (pH, nutrients, metals) differed among roofs there was no correlation with survivorship. Percent cover and sward height increased with increasing survivorship. At low survivorship, cover of theHPassemblage was greater compared to theRSassemblage. Sward height of theHPassemblage was about two times greater compared to theRSassemblage. These results highlight the effects of local biotic and regional abiotic drivers on community composition and physical structure of green roof vegetation. As a result, initial green roof plant composition and roof microclimate may have long‐term effects on community dynamics, ecosystem function, and urban biodiversity.
Landscape‐scale GPP and carbon density inform patterns and impacts of an invasive tree across wet forests of Hawaii
Authors: Barbosa Jomar M. , Asner Gregory P. , Hughes R. Flint , Johnson M. Tracy
Published: October 2016

Plant invasion typically occurs within a landscape‐scale framework of abiotic and biotic conditions, often resulting in emergent feedbacks among environment, ecosystem functions, and the dominance of invasive species. Understanding the mechanisms underlying successful invasions is an important component of conservation and management efforts, but this has been poorly investigated in a spatially explicit manner. Knowing where and why invasion patterns change throughout the landscape enables managers to use context‐specific controls on the spread of invasive species. Using high‐resolution airborne imaging spectroscopy, we studied plant performance in growth within and across landscapes to examine the dominance and spatial distribution of an invasive tree, Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava), in heterogeneous environmental conditions of a submontane Hawaiian tropical forest. We assessed invader performance using the GPP ratio index, which is the relative difference in remotely sensed estimates of gross primary productivity between canopies of guava and canopies of the invaded plant community. In addition, we used airborne LiDAR data to evaluate the impacts of guava invasion on the forest aboveground carbon density in different environments. Structural equation modeling revealed that substrate type and elevation above sea level interact and amplify landscape‐scale differences in productivity between the invasive species and the host plant community (GPP ratio); differences that ultimately control levels of dominance of guava. We found shifts in patterns of forest carbon storage based on both gradual increase of invader dominance and changes in environmental conditions. Overall, our results demonstrate that the remotely sensed index defined as the GPP ratio provided an innovative spatially explicit approach to track and predict the success of invasive plants based in their canopy productivity, particularly within a landscape‐scale framework of varying environmental factors such as soils and elevation. This approach may help managers accurately predict where invaders of forests, scrublands, or grasslands are likely to exhibit high levels of dominance before the environment is fully invaded.
Drivers of redistribution of fishing and non‐fishing effort after the implementation of a marine protected area network
Authors: Cabral Reniel B. , Gaines Steven D. , Johnson Brett A. , Bell Tom W. , White Crow
Published: October 2016

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is increasingly utilized to sustainably manage ocean uses. Marine protected areas (MPAs), a form of spatial management in which parts of the ocean are regulated to fishing, are now a common tool in MSP for conserving marine biodiversity and managing fisheries. However, the use of MPAs in MSP often neglects, or simplifies, the redistribution of fishing and non‐fishing activities inside and outside of MPAs following their implementation. This redistribution of effort can have important implications for effective MSP. Using long‐term (14 yr) aerial surveys of boats at the California Channel Islands, we examined the spatial redistribution of fishing and non‐fishing activities and their drivers following MPA establishment. Our data represent 6 yr of information before the implementation of an MPA network and 8 yr after implementation. Different types of boats responded in different ways to the closures, ranging from behaviors by commercial dive boats that support the hypothesis of fishing‐the‐line, to behaviors by urchin, sport fishing, and recreational boats that support the theory of ideal free distribution. Additionally, we found that boats engaged in recreational activities targeted areas that are sheltered from large waves and located near their home ports, while boats engaged in fishing activities also avoided high wave areas but were not constrained by the distance to their home ports. We did not observe the expected pattern of effort concentration near MPA borders for some boat types; this can be explained by the habitat preference of certain activities (for some activities, the desired habitat attributes are not inside the MPAs), species’ biology (species such as urchins where the MPA benefit would likely come from larval export rather than adult spillover), or policy‐infraction avoidance. The diversity of boat responses reveals variance from the usual simplified assumption that all extractive boats respond similarly to MPA establishment. Our work is the first empirical study to analyze the response of both commercial and recreational boats to closure. Our results will inform MSP in better accounting for effort redistribution by ocean users in response to the implementation of MPAs and other closures.
Natural quantitative genetic variance in plant growth differs in response to ecologically relevant temperature heterogeneity
Authors: Salmela Matti J. , Ewers Brent E. , Weinig Cynthia
Published: October 2016

Adaptation to large‐scale spatial heterogeneity in the environment accounts for a major proportion of genetic diversity within species. Theory predicts the erosion of adaptive genetic variation on a within‐population level, but considerable genetic diversity is often found locally. Genetic diversity could be expected to be maintained within populations in temporally or spatially variable conditions if genotypic rank orders vary across contrasting microenvironmental settings. Taking advantage of fine‐resolution environmental data, we tested the hypothesis that temperature heterogeneity among years could be one factor maintaining quantitative genetic diversity within a natural and genetically diverse plant population. We sampled maternal families of Boechera stricta, an Arabidopsis thaliana relative, at one location in the central Rocky Mountains and grew them in three treatments that, based on records from an adjacent weather station, simulated hourly temperature changes at the native site during three summers with differing mean temperatures. Treatment had a significant effect on all traits, with 2–3‐fold increase in above‐ and belowground biomass and the highest allocation to roots observed in the treatment simulating the warmest summer on record at the site. Treatment affected bivariate associations between traits, with the weakest correlation between above‐ and belowground biomass in the warmest treatment. The magnitude of quantitative genetic variation for all traits differed across treatments: Genetic variance of biomass was 0 in the warmest treatment, while highly significant diversity was found in average conditions, resulting in broad‐sense heritability of 0.31. Significant genotype × environment interactions across all treatments were found only in root‐to‐shoot ratio. Therefore, temperature variation among summers appears unlikely to account for the observed levels of local genetic variation in size in this perennial species, but may influence family rank order in growth allocation. Our results indicate that natural environmental fluctuations can have a large impact on the magnitude of within‐population quantitative genetic variance.
Climate change increases the production of female hatchlings at a northern sea turtle rookery
Authors: Reneker J. L. , Kamel S. J.
Published: October 2016

The most recent climate change projections show a global increase in temperatures, along with major adjustments to precipitation, throughout the 21st century. Species exhibiting temperature‐dependent sex determination are highly susceptible to such changes since the incubation environment influences critical offspring characteristics such as survival and sex ratio. Here we show that the mean incubation duration of loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) nests from a high‐density nesting beach on Bald Head Island, North Carolina, USA has decreased significantly over the past 25 yr. This decrease in incubation duration is significantly positively correlated with mean air temperature and negatively correlated with mean precipitation during the nesting season. Additionally, although no change in hatching success was detected during this same period, a potentially detrimental consequence of shorter incubation durations is that they lead to the production of primarily female offspring. Given that global temperatures are predicted to increase by as much as 4°C over the next century, the mass feminization of sea turtle hatchlings is a high‐priority concern. While presently limited in number, studies using long‐term data sets to examine the temporal correlation between offspring characteristics and climatic trends are essential for understanding the scope and direction of climate change effects on species persistence.
Predicting gravel bed river response to environmental change: the strengths and limitations of a regime‐based approach
Authors: Eaton Brett , Millar Robert
Published: October 2016

Rivers respond to environmental changes such as climate shifts, land use changes and the construction of hydro‐power dams in a variety of ways. Often there are multiple potential responses to any given change. Traditionally, potential stream channel response has been assessed using simple, qualitative frameworks based largely on professional judgement and field experience, or using some form of regime theory. Regime theory represents an attempt to use a physically based approach to predict the configuration of stable channels that can transport the imposed sediment supply with the available discharge. We review the development of regime theory, and then present a specific regime model that we have created as a stand‐alone computer program, called the UBC Regime Model (UBCRM). UBCRM differs from other regime models in that it constrains its predictions using a bank stability criterion, as well as a pattern stability criterion; it predicts both the stable channel cross‐sectional dimensions as well as the number of anabranches that the stream must have in order to establish a stable channel pattern. UBCRM also differs from other models in that it can be used in a stochastic modelling mode that translates uncertainty in the input variables into uncertainty in the predicted channel characteristics. However, since regime models are fundamentally based on the concept of grade, there are circumstances in which the model does not perform well. We explore the strengths and weaknesses of the UBCRM in this paper, and we attempt to illustrate how the UBCRM can be used to augment the existing qualitative frameworks, and to help guide professionals in their assessments. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Projection‐based variational multiscale method for incompressible Navier–Stokes equations in time‐dependent domains
Authors: Pal Birupaksha , Ganesan Sashikumaar
Published: October 2016

A variational multiscale method for computations of incompressible Navier–Stokes equations in time‐dependent domains is presented. The proposed scheme is a three‐scale variational multiscale method with a projection‐based scale separation that uses an additional tensor valued space for the large scales. The resolved large and small scales are computed in a coupled way with the effects of unresolved scales confined to the resolved small scales. In particular, the Smagorinsky eddy viscosity model is used to model the effects of unresolved scales. The deforming domain is handled by the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian approach and by using an elastic mesh update technique with a mesh‐dependent stiffness. Further, the choice of orthogonal finite element basis function for the resolved large scale leads to a computationally efficient scheme. Simulations of flow around a static beam attached to a square base, around an oscillating beam and around a plunging aerofoil are presented. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heat penetration attributes of milkfish (Chanos chanos) thermal processed in flexible pouches: a comparative study between steam application and water immersion
Authors: Adepoju Mary A. , Omitoyin Bamidele O. , Mohan Chitradurga O. , Zynudheen Aliyam A.
Published: October 2016

The difference in the heating penetration characteristics of product processed in retort by steam–air application and water immersion was studied. Fresh milkfish (Chanos chanos) packed in dry pack and in oil medium, both in flexible pouches, was thermal processed to minimum F0 value of 7.77 at 121.1°C. Heat penetration values were recorded for each minute of processing with the aid Ellab (TM 9608, Denmark) temperature recorder. Retort come up time to achieve 121.1°C was observed to be less in steam–air which invariably led to a lower Ball's process time (B) and the total process time (T) observed in steam–air as compared to water immersion. Obtained data were plotted on a semi‐logarithmic paper with temperature deficit on x‐axis against time on the y‐axis.
Influence of storage temperature and low‐temperature conditioning on the levels of health‐promoting compounds in Rio Red grapefruit
Authors: Chaudhary Priyanka R. , Yu Xiang , Jayaprakasha Guddadarangavvanahally K. , Patil Bhimanagouda S.
Published: October 2016

Commercial operations use low‐temperature conditioning of citrus fruits to reduce the incidence of chilling injury (CI) during cold storage and quarantine treatments. Rio Red grapefruits (Citrus paradisi Macf) were stored for 12 weeks at 11°C or 5°C; an additional set was temperature conditioned at 16°C for 7 days before storing at 5°C (CD). Every 3 weeks, samples were assessed for chilling injury (CI) and health‐promoting compounds such as ascorbic acid, carotenoids, limonoids, flavonoids, and furocoumarins. Low‐temperature conditioning significantly reduced CI but did not affect the total soluble solids, acidity, and ripening ratio. After 12 weeks of storage, grapefruits showed no significant differences in lycopene, narirutin, poncirin, furocoumarins, and radical scavenging activity in all the three treatments. Limonin was significantly higher (p < .05) in CD fruits, nomilin was significantly higher in fruits stored at 11°C, whereas fruits stored at 5°C had lower levels of naringin, neohesperidin, and didymin after 12 weeks of storage. Low‐temperature conditioning treatment helped fruits to retain similar or higher levels of most of the health‐promoting compounds by the end of storage period while maintaining better quality than the nonconditioned fruits.
Impact of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee on riparian zone hydrology and biogeochemistry
Authors: Vidon Philippe , Marchese Sara , Rook Stephen
Published: October 2016

Although riparian zones are well known to reduce nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) runoff to streams, they also have the potential to affect greenhouse gas (CO2, N2O, and CH4) fluxes to the atmosphere. Following large storms, soil biogeochemical conditions often become more reduced, especially in oxbow depressions and side channels, which can lead to hot moments of greenhouse gas production. Here, we investigate the impact of the remnants of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee on riparian zone hydrology (water table: WT), and biogeochemistry (oxidation‐reduction potential [ORP], dissolved oxygen [DO], NO3−, PO43−, CO2, N2O, CH4). Results indicate that large storms have the potential to reset WT levels for weeks to months. Overbank flooding at our site following Irene and Lee led to the infiltration of well‐oxygenated water at depth (higher DO and ORP) while promoting the development of anoxic conditions within soil aggregates near the soil surface (increased N2O and CH4 fluxes). A short‐term increase in CO2 emission was observed following Irene at our site where aerobic respiration was water‐limited. Over a 2‐year period, an oxbow depression exhibited higher WT, higher N2O and CH4 fluxes (hot moment), higher CO2 fluxes (seasonal), and lower NO3− concentrations (seasonal) than the rest of the riparian zone. However, neither Irene, nor Lee, nor the oxbow depression significantly impacted PO43−. Dissolved organic carbon, ORP, and DO data illustrate the time‐lag (>20 years) between the creation of an oxbow depression and the development of reducing conditions despite clear differences in riparian zone and oxbow WT dynamics.
Best Practices Start With Screening: A Closer Look at Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment in Adolescent, Military, and LGBTQ Populations
Authors: Russett Jill L.
Published: October 2016

Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) is a flexible, evidence‐based approach to assessing risk and providing brief interventions for individuals with alcohol use disorders. This article identifies 3 diverse populations that could benefit from universal screening—a foundation of SBIRT—and provides resources and support for implementation across a broad range of settings.
Effect of fluid dynamic conditions on 2,3‐butanediol production by Raoultella terrigena in SBTR: oxygen transfer and uptake rates
Authors: Rodriguez Alberto , Ripoll Vanessa , Santos Victoria E , Gomez Emilio , Garcia‐Ochoa Felix
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

The fluid dynamic conditions play a key role in the development and scaling‐up of bioprocesses. In aerobic cultures, oxygen is an essential substrate for microbial growth, production and culture maintenance; an effective gas–liquid transfer must be achieved. Changes in fluid dynamics due to stirrer speed can affect the culture negatively, causing hydrodynamic stress (increasing shear stress) or oxidative stress (by an increase of available oxygen in the liquid phase).

RESULTS

Under oxygen‐limiting conditions, specific growth rate increases with stirrer speed, and several fermentation products were specifically released to the culture medium. 2,3‐butanediol production increased with stirrer speed, reaching a maximum at 400 rpm. When the agitation was increased over 550 rpm, the metabolic flux was mainly routed to increase the cell growth. Negative effects of fluid dynamic conditions on biomass production were observed at 1900 and 2000 rpm. Cellular response to shear stress conditions was also shown in the large increase of the broth viscosity over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Raoultella terrigena is able to adapt the carbon metabolic flux to the availability of oxygen, producing fermentation products, alcohols or directing microbial growth. Moreover, cells can withstand aggressive agitation conditions (up to 1600 rpm). © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Are routine ultrasound examinations helpful in the detection of bleeding complications following laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair?
Authors: Pochhammer Julius , Lang Stefanie , Scuffi Bettina , Schäffer Michael , Smaxwil Constantin A.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Intraabdominal bleeding is a dreaded complication after laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repairs. Routine postoperative sonographic (US) examination and hemoglobin measurement have been suggested to identify bleeding after surgery. We retrospectively assessed the value of these tests.

Methods

A total of 995 consecutive patients admitted for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair to a single teaching hospital were analyzed. US examinations were performed postoperatively on the operative day to identify intraabdominal bleeding. In addition, hemoglobin measurements were obtained on the first postoperative day.

Results

Postoperative US examinations were performed on 971 patients (97.6%). Of these, 945 were examined within 24 hours of surgery. Reoperation was necessary in 1.1% (11/995) of the patients because of a persistent seroma in five cases, intraabdominal or inguinal bleeding or hematomas in five cases, and a trocar hernia in one case. In none of the 11 patients requiring reoperation did US examination or hemoglobin measurement indicate acute bleeding or hematoma.

Conclusions

Routine postoperative US examination and hemoglobin measurement within the first 24 hours of surgery are not suitable for identifying patients with intraabdominal bleeding who require a reoperation. Instead, US examination and hemoglobin measurement should be part of the patient workup when there is a clinical suspicion of a postoperative complication. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:145–149, 2017
Secretory glands and microvascular systems imaged in aqueous solution by atmospheric scanning electron microscopy (ASEM)
Authors: Yamazawa Toshiko , Nakamura Naotoshi , Sato Mari , Sato Chikara
Published: October 2016

Exocrine glands, e.g., salivary and pancreatic glands, play an important role in digestive enzyme secretion, while endocrine glands, e.g., pancreatic islets, secrete hormones that regulate blood glucose levels. The dysfunction of these secretory organs immediately leads to various diseases, such as diabetes or Sjögren's syndrome, by poorly understood mechanisms. Gland‐related diseases have been studied by optical microscopy (OM), and at higher resolution by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of Epon embedded samples, which necessitates hydrophobic sample pretreatment. Here, we report the direct observation of tissue in aqueous solution by atmospheric scanning electron microscopy (ASEM). Salivary glands, lacrimal glands, and pancreas were fixed, sectioned into slabs, stained with phosphotungstic acid (PTA), and inspected in radical scavenger d‐glucose solution from below by an inverted scanning electron microscopy (SEM), guided by optical microscopy from above to target the tissue substructures. A 2‐ to 3‐µm specimen thickness was visualized by the SEM. In secretory cells, cytoplasmic vesicles and other organelles were clearly imaged at high resolution, and the former could be classified according to the degree of PTA staining. In islets of Langerhans, the microvascular system used as an outlet by the secretory cells was also clearly observed. Microvascular system is also critically involved in the onset of diabetic complications and was clearly visible in subcutaneous tissue imaged by ASEM. The results suggest the use of in‐solution ASEM for histology and to study vesicle secretion systems. Further, the high‐throughput of ASEM makes it a potential tool for the diagnosis of exocrine and endocrine‐related diseases.
Evaluation of Staphylococcus aureus DNA aptamer by enzyme‐linked aptamer assay and isothermal titration calorimetry
Authors: Bayraç Ceren , Öktem Hüseyin Avni
Published: October 2016

To monitor the specificity of Staphylococcus aureus aptamer (SA‐31) against its target cell, we used enzyme‐linked aptamer assay. In the presence of target cell, horseradish peroxidase–conjugated streptavidin bound to biotin‐labeled SA‐31 showed specific binding to S  aureus among 3 different bacteria with limit of detection of 103 colony‐forming unit per milliliter. The apparent Ka was 1.39 μM−1 ± 0.3 μM−1. The binding of SA‐31 to membrane proteins extracted from cell surface was characterized using isothermal titration calorimetry, and the effect of changes in binding temperature and salt concentrations of binding buffer was evaluated based on thermodynamic parameters (Ka, ΔH, and ΔG). Since binding of aptamer to its targets solely depends on its 3‐dimensional structure under experimental conditions used in selection process, the change in temperature and ion concentration changed the affinity of SA‐31 to its target on surface of bacteria. At 4°C, SA‐31 did not show an affinity to its target with poor heat change upon injection of membrane fraction to aptamer solution. However, the apparent association constants of SA‐31 slightly varied from Ka = 1.56 μM−1 ± 0.69 μM−1 at 25°C to Ka = 1.03 μM−1 ± 0.9 μM−1 at 37°C. At spontaneously occurring exothermic binding reactions, affinities of S aureus aptamer to its target were also 9.44 μM−1 ± 0.38 μM−1 at 50mM, 1.60 μM−1 ± 0.11 μM−1 at 137mM, and 3.28 μM−1 ± 0.46 μM−1 at 200 mM of salt concentration. In this study, it was demonstrated that enzyme‐linked aptamer assay and isothermal titration calorimetry were useful tools for studying the fundamental binding mechanism between a DNA aptamer and its target on the outer surface of S aureus.
RGD targeting of human ferritin iron oxide nanoparticles enhances in vivo MRI of vascular inflammation and angiogenesis in experimental carotid disease and abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Kitagawa Toshiro , Kosuge Hisanori , Uchida Masaki , Iida Yasunori , Dalman Ronald L. , Douglas Trevor , McConnell Michael V.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To evaluate Arg‐Gly‐Asp (RGD)‐conjugated human ferritin (HFn) iron oxide nanoparticles for in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of vascular inflammation and angiogenesis in experimental carotid disease and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

Materials and Methods

HFn was genetically engineered to express the RGD peptide and Fe3O4 nanoparticles were chemically synthesized inside the engineered HFn (RGD‐HFn). Macrophage‐rich left carotid lesions were induced by ligation in FVB mice made hyperlipidemic and diabetic (n = 14), with the contralateral right carotid serving as control. Murine AAAs were created by continuous angiotensin II infusion in ApoE‐deficient mice (n = 12), while control mice underwent saline infusion (n = 8). All mice were imaged before and after intravenous injection with either RGD‐HFn‐Fe3O4 or HFn‐Fe3O4 using a gradient‐echo sequence on a whole‐body 3T clinical scanner, followed by histological analysis. The nanoparticle accumulation was assessed by the extent of
‐induced carotid lumen reduction (% lumen loss) or aortic
‐weighted signal intensity reduction (% SI [signal intensity] loss).

Results

RGD‐HFn‐Fe3O4 was taken up more than HFn‐Fe3O4 in both the ligated left carotid arteries (% lumen loss; 69 ± 9% vs. 36 ± 7%, P = 0.01) and AAAs (% SI loss; 47 ± 6% vs. 20 ± 5%, P = 0.01). The AAA % SI loss correlated positively with AAA size (r = 0.89, P < 0.001). Histology confirmed the greater accumulation and colocalization of RGD‐HFn‐Fe3O4 to both vascular macrophages and endothelial cells.

Conclusion

RGD‐HFn‐Fe3O4 enhances in vivo MRI by targeting both vascular inflammation and angiogenesis, and provides a promising translatable MRI approach to detect high‐risk atherosclerotic and aneurysmal vascular diseases.

Level of Evidence: 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:1144–1153
T(Rho) and magnetization transfer and INvErsion recovery (TRAMINER)‐prepared imaging: A novel contrast‐enhanced flow‐independent dark‐blood technique for the evaluation of myocardial late gadolinium enhancement in patients with myocardial infarction
Authors: Muscogiuri Giuseppe , Rehwald Wolfgang G. , Schoepf U. Joseph , Suranyi Pal , Litwin Sheldon E. , De Cecco Carlo N. , Wichmann Julian L. , Mangold Stefanie , Caruso Damiano , Fuller Stephen R. , Bayer 2nd Richard R. , Varga‐Szemes Akos
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To evaluate a new dark‐blood late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) technique called “T(Rho) And Magnetization transfer and INvErsion Recovery” (TRAMINER) for the ability to detect myocardial LGE versus standard “bright‐blood” inversion recovery (SIR) imaging.

Materials and Methods

This Institutional Review Board (IRB)‐approved, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)‐compliant prospective study included 40 patients (62 ± 14 years [mean ± standard deviation (SD)], 29 males) with suspected myocardial infarction (MI) referred for the assessment of myocardial viability. The patients underwent a 1.5T cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) including postcontrast SIR and TRAMINER acquisitions. Normalized images were evaluated by two readers. Subjective (3‐point Likert scale) and objective image qualities were compared using Mann–Whitney U‐test and paired t‐test, respectively. Interobserver agreement, LGE detection rate, and level of certainty were compared using Cohen's kappa, Wilcoxon‐test, and Mann–Whitney U‐test, respectively. Results are reported as mean ± SD or mean [95% confidence interval].

Results

Overall, image quality was rated similar between TRAMINER and SIR; however, TRAMINER performed better on a visual assessment of the ability to differentiate LGE from blood (Likert scale: 3.0 [3.0–3.0] vs. 2.0 [1.7–2.2], P < 0.0001). TRAMINER provided significantly higher signal intensity range (69.8 ± 10.2 vs. 9.6 ± 7.6, P < 0.0001) and a 4‐fold higher signal intensity ratio (4.2 ± 1.9 vs. 1.1 ± 0.1, P < 0.0001) between LGE and blood signals. TRAMINER detected more patients (19/40 vs. 17/40) and segments (91/649 vs. 79/649) with LGE with higher level of certainty (2.9 [2.8–3.0] vs. 2.7 [2.5–2.8], P = 0.0185). Interobserver agreement was good to excellent for LGE detection.

Conclusion

TRAMINER provides better contrast between LGE and blood and consequently may have increased ability to discriminate thin subendocardial and papillary muscle enhancement from the blood signal, which can have an indistinct appearance using SIR.

Level of Evidence: 2

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1429–1437
Psychosocial Dynamics of College Students' Use of Mental Health Services
Authors: Rosenthal Beth Spenciner , Wilson William Cody
Published: October 2016

The authors present and empirically test a multivariate model of the use of mental health counseling services. Use of such services by 1st‐year college students is directly a result of need for these services and willingness to use them. Beliefs about mental health services and demographic characteristics are not directly related to use, but indirectly affect use by influencing willingness to use. Implications for college counseling programs are discussed.
Coping Self‐Efficacy and Academic Stress Among Hispanic First‐Year College Students: The Moderating Role of Emotional Intelligence
Authors: Watson Joshua C. , Watson April A.
Published: October 2016

In this study, the authors examined the role that emotional intelligence plays in moderating the relationship between academic stress and coping self‐efficacy among a sample of 125 Hispanic 1st‐year college students enrolled at a medium‐size, southern Hispanic‐serving institution. Results of a 2‐stage hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated that emotional intelligence was a significant moderator in the relationship for the students surveyed. Implications for counseling Hispanic 1st‐year college students and directions for future research are suggested.
The Impact of Perceived Stress and Psychosocial Factors on Missed Class and Work in College Students
Authors: Thomas Jenifer J. , Borrayo Evelinn A.
Published: October 2016

An understanding of how missed class and work are influenced by psychosocial factors is important. The authors collected data from 303 college students through self‐report questionnaires. Moderation analysis indicated that with higher perceived stress, students were more likely to miss class if they were less satisfied with social support and less likely to miss work if they engaged in avoidant coping strategies. College counselors can provide students with skills to enhance academic performance and engagement in academic life.
Irreducibility of Black Male Clients: Considerations for Culturally Competent Counseling
Authors: HANNON MICHAEL D. , VEREEN LINWOOD G.
Published: October 2016

An exploration of Black men as clients is presented. The concept of irreducibility through the humanistic lens is shared as a means of providing counselors the wherewithal to reframe the internal paradigm of clinical work with Black men. Recommendations for counselor exploration and clinical practice are offered.