bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The metabolic role of the microbiota
Authors: Barton Wiley , Shanahan Fergus , Cotter Paul D. , O'Sullivan Orla
Published: May 2015

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Is the gut microbiota disturbed in chronic liver disease?
Authors: Quigley Eamonn M.M.
Published: May 2015

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Care of the patient with cirrhosis
Authors: Yadav Anitha , Vargas Hugo E.
Published: May 2015

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Randomized trial to increase colorectal cancer screening in an ethnically diverse sample of first‐degree relatives
Authors: Bastani Roshan , Glenn Beth A. , Maxwell Annette E. , Ganz Patricia A. , Mojica Cynthia M. , Alber Susan , Crespi Catherine M. , Chang L. Cindy
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Ethnic minorities, especially African Americans and Latinos, bear a disproportionate burden of colorectal cancer (CRC), as reflected in incidence, cancer stage, and mortality statistics. In all ethnic groups, first‐degree relatives (FDRs) of CRC cases are at an elevated disease risk. However, underuse of CRC screening persists and is particularly evident among minority groups. The current study tested a stepped intervention to increase CRC screening among an ethnically diverse sample of FDRs of CRC cases.

METHODS

A statewide cancer registry was used to recruit CRC cases and through them their FDRs. Relatives who were not current on CRC screening were randomized to intervention or usual‐care control arms. The stepped intervention consisted of ethnically targeted and individually tailored print materials followed by telephone counseling for those unscreened at 6 months.

RESULTS

The study sample of 1280 individuals consisted of 403 Latino, 284 African American, 242 Asian, and 351 white FDRs. Statistically significant effects were observed for the cumulative print plus telephone intervention at 12 months (26% in the intervention vs 18% in the control group) and the print intervention alone at 6 months (15% in the intervention vs 10% in the control group). The effect of the print intervention alone versus the cumulative interventions was not statistically significantly different. Stratified analyses indicated that the intervention was effective among white, Latino, and Asian individuals, but not among African‐Americans.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the intervention was effective in increasing screening rates. Oversampling racial/ethnic minorities allowed for the examination of effects within subgroups, revealing no effect among African American individuals. This finding illustrates the importance of including sufficient numbers of participants from diverse ethnic subgroups in intervention research to enable such stratified analyses. Cancer 2015;121:2951–2959. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Business as usual is not acceptable
Authors: Cummings K. Michael , Gustafson James W. , Sales David J. , Khuri Fadlo R. , Warren Graham W.
Published: May 2015

It is time for the cigarette industry to be held accountable for the consequences of manufacturing and promoting a product that causes so much disease and death. Punitive damage awards in tobacco litigation are an important way to make the cigarette companies recognize that Business as usual is not acceptable.
A Classification of Isolated Singularities of Elliptic Monge‐Ampére Equations in Dimension Two
Authors: Gálvez José A. , Jiménez Asun , Mira Pablo
Published: May 2015

Let ℳ1 denote the space of solutions z(x,y) to an elliptic, real analytic Monge‐Ampére equation whose graphs have a non‐removable isolated singularity at the origin. We prove that ℳ1 is in one‐to‐one correspondence with ℳ2 × ℤ2, where ℳ2 is a suitable subset of the class of regular, real analytic, strictly convex Jordan curves in ℝ2. We also describe the asymptotic behavior of solutions of the Monge‐Ampére equation in the Ck‐smooth case, and a general existence theorem for isolated singularities of analytic solutions of the more general equation .© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification of new oral dosing regimens for the neuraminidase inhibitor oseltamivir in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment
Authors: Kamal Mohamed A. , Brennan Barbara J. , Subramoney Vishak , Lien Yi Ting (Kayla) , Morcos Peter N. , Frey Nicolas , Rayner Craig R.
Published: May 2015

Availability of lower‐dose oseltamivir capsules, an increased pharmacokinetic database, and a desire to align drug exposure across the spectrum of renal function prompted reassessment of oral dosing in patients with renal impairment. The data set comprised 128 subjects (71 with varying degrees of renal impairment) from 8 studies, which included single and multiple doses of 20–1000 mg. Pharmacokinetic profiles of oseltamivir phosphate (OP) and oseltamivir carboxylate (OC) were modeled simultaneously in NONMEM. Exposure metrics of OP and OC (AUC48 h, Cmax, Cmin) after administration of various dosing regimens were simulated for renal impairment subgroups and compared with exposures in patients with normal renal function receiving approved regimens. For influenza treatment, 30 mg once‐daily and twice‐daily regimens were selected for severe and moderate impairment, respectively. These regimens provided OC exposures similar or above those of the approved 75‐mg twice‐daily treatment regimen in subjects with normal renal function. For influenza prophylaxis, 30 mg once every other day and once‐daily regimens were selected for severe and moderate impairment, respectively. No dosing adjustments were required for mild impairment. This analysis supported revised labeling in the United States and Europe for oral oseltamivir dosing in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment.
Advances in the study of elementary cellular automata regular language complexity
Authors: De Oliveira Pedro P. B. , Ruivo Eurico L. P. , Costa Wander L. , Miki Fábio T. , Trafaniuc Victor V.
Published: May 2015

Cellular automata (CA) are discrete dynamical systems that, out of the fully local action of its state transition rule, are capable of generating a multitude of global patterns, from the trivial to the arbitrarily complex ones. The set of global configurations that can be obtained by iterating a one‐dimensional cellular automaton for a finite number of times can always be described by a regular language. The size of the minimum finite automaton corresponding to such a language at a given time step provides a complexity measure of the underlying rule. Here, we study the time evolution of elementary CA, in terms of such a regular language complexity. We review and expand the original results on the topic, describe an alternative method for generating the subsequent finite automata in time, and provide a method to analyze and detect patterns in the complexity growth of the rules. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 267–279, 2016
Oxygen and hydrogen profiles and electrical properties of unintentionally doped gallium nitride grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy
Authors: Garbe Valentin , Abendroth Barbara , Stöcker Hartmut , Gavrilov Arkadi , Cohen‐Elias Doron , Mehari Shlomo , Ritter Dan , Meyer Dirk C.
Published: May 2015

Commercially available hydride vapor phase epitaxy gallium nitride (GaN) is characterized with the aim to correlate the oxygen and hydrogen secondary ion mass spectrometry profiles of a GaN wafer with the electrical properties of the sample. A GaN layer model, including doping profile and mobility, is derived, utilizing electrical (capacitance–voltage, Hall), structural (high resolution X‐ray diffraction) and optical (polarized infrared spectroscopy) methods. Oxygen and hydrogen are easily incorporated during hydride vapor phase epitaxy growth of GaN. Oxygen is an n‐type dopant in GaN, whereas hydrogen may passivate some of the donors. Electrical and optical properties correlate with a low defect concentration top GaN layer and a high defect concentration GaN interlayer.
Crystal growth, characterization and Density functional theory computations of supramolecular N‐carbamothioyl acetamide
Authors: Prasad A. Aditya , Meenakshisundaram S.P.
Published: May 2015

Single crystals of N‐carbamothioylacetamide (NCTA) were grown by slow evaporation technique at constant temperature. The structure is elucidated by single crystal XRD analysis. The studies reveal that the molecule is associated with accommodating weak C–O···H, N–H···O, N–H···S, C–H···N, C···C and H···H stacking interactions which are responsible for the formation and strengthening of supramolecular assembly. Inter‐ and intramolecular hydrogen bonding interactions exhibit supramolecular architecture in the crystal packing. Two different types of architecture, i.e., a column like packing, and cluster network type of infrastructure are observed. Hirshfeld surfaces and Fingerprint plots were used to locate and analyze the percentage of hydrogen bonding interactions. The various functional groups present in the molecule are confirmed by FT‐IR analysis. Density functional theory computations of the vibrational spectrum, molecular geometry, HOMO‐LUMO energy gaps, NBO and hyperpolarizability (β) were successfully evaluated. Facts concerning with the size, shape, charge density distribution and site of chemical reactivity of the molecule have been obtained by mapping electron density with electrostatic potential (ESP).
Fluorinated Alcohols as Activators for the Solvent‐Free Chemical Fixation of Carbon Dioxide into Epoxides
Authors: Gennen Sandro , Alves Margot , Méreau Raphaël , Tassaing Thierry , Gilbert Bernard , Detrembleur Christophe , Jerome Christine , Grignard Bruno
Published: May 2015

The addition of fluorinated alcohols to onium salts provides highly efficient organocatalysts for the chemical fixation of CO2 into epoxides under mild experimental conditions. The combination of online kinetic studies, NMR titrations and DFT calculations allows understanding this synergistic effect that provides an active organocatalyst for CO2/epoxides coupling.
Quartz Crystal Microbalance Sensor for NH3 Gas with Compensation of Humidity Drift
Authors: USHIMI YOSHIMITSU , ITO YOSHIHIRO , HORIUCHI HIDEYA , KADOTA MICHIO , NOZAKI YOSHIMI , HOTTA YOSHIO , SHIRATORI SEIMEI
Published: May 2015

A quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor coated with a sensing film has been studied as a gas‐sensing device with high gas selectivity and high sensor sensitivity. One of the problems to be solved for practical applications is that the resonant frequency of a QCM sensor drifts due to the influence of humidity. We investigated a method for compensating the humidity drift of a QCM sensor for NH3 gas by using an element coated with a reference film that was prepared by modifying the phosphate group of zirconium phosphate in the sensing film with sodium hydroxide. The response characteristics of the reference element were measured. The results showed good agreement with the humidity response of the sensor element when not responding to ammonia gas. It was found that compensation of the humidity drift was successfully accomplished by calculating the frequency difference between the sensor element and the reference element. An application to small QCM (1.3 × 0.9 mm) is also presented.
Interface State Density Evaluation of p‐Type and n‐Type Ge/GeNx Structures by Conductance Technique
Authors: IWASAKI TAKURO , ONO TOSHIRO , OTANI YOHEI , FUKUDA YUKIO , OKAMOTO HIROSHI
Published: May 2015

Ge‐MIS structures have attracted attention as next‐generation CMOS devices. We have reported that a GeNx/Ge structure with a low interface state density can be made by the electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) plasma technique, and that the interface state density of Ge‐MIS structures can be evaluated through characteristic analysis in the inversion region even at room temperature. In this report, we evaluate the interface state density of p‐type and n‐type GeNx/Ge structures using the conductance technique at low temperature and characteristic analysis at room temperature, and the related process dependences. We have successfully evaluated the interface characteristics of GeNx/Ge structures. The interface state density was systematically distributed with respect to the midgap, and the density near the midgap was close to that of the GeO2/Ge structure.
Classification and Size Estimation of Wafer Defects by Using Scattered Light Distribution
Authors: SUGIHARA YOSHIHIKO , HONDA TOSHIFUMI , URANO YUTA , WATANABE MASAHIRO , NOGUCHI SO , IGARASHI HAJIME
Published: May 2015

Usually, wafer inspection is a two‐step process. The first step, which is very important, consists of detection of defects on the wafer. The second step classification of the detected defects, which is done after defect detection as necessary. Recently, it has become necessary to perform simultaneous detection and classification of wafer defects in order to reduce the wafer inspection time while maintaining high resolution of inspection. Optical wafer inspection is the most effective method for detecting and classifying defects and estimating their size in a short time. In this method, the scattered light distribution is compared with a database of previous scattered light distributions and pattern matching is used to classify defects and estimate their size. Therefore, to achieve optical wafer inspection based on scattered light distribution, it is necessary to gather scattered light distribution data for many samples of various kinds. The first aim of this study is to develop a defect classification and size estimation method utilizing the scattered light distribution. We propose a method of classifying defects on wafers and estimating their size. The proposed method is based on pattern matching utilizing a parametric eigenspace. The second aim of the paper is to validate the proposed method by applying it to scattered light distribution samples. The light scattering distribution samples were generated by discrete dipole approximation (DDA) simulation. A database of the light scattering distribution is easily created using the simulation.
Dinuclear Zinc and Cobalt Complexes with Imidazolyl and N‐Methylmidazolyl Units and Their Solution Speciation and Redox Properties
Authors: Kügler Merle , Gałęzowska Joanna , Schendzielorz Florian , Dechert Sebastian , Demeshko Serhiy , Siewert Inke
Published: May 2015

Herein, we report the synthesis of a new ligand, which is preorganised for the complexation of two metal ions and has two 1H‐imidazolyl units in the outer ligand sphere. The zinc and cobalt complexes with the ligand were synthesised and fully characterised, and their solid‐state structures were determined. The complexes show a highly symmetric [M2L2]2+ structural motif. The thermodynamic data, that is, the overall stability constants and redox potential of the Co2+/Co3+ couple, were determined. Potentiometric studies revealed the presence of mononuclear (below pH 7) and differently protonated dimeric species (above pH 7). The formation of distinct species was corroborated by ESI‐MS measurements. Similar species were obtained for the corresponding zinc complexes. Additionally, we determined the dependence of the Co2+/Co3+ redox couple on the protonation state of the complex. The studies showed that there is a considerably strong thermodynamic coupling between the NH protons of the imidazolyl units and the oxidation state of the metal ion. Upon deprotonation of all four NH units, the potential of the redox couple shifted by ca. 1.1 V. We also synthesised the analogous ligand with N‐methylimidazolyl units to investigate the influence of the NH protons on the properties of the complexes. The methylation of the NH unit has virtually no influence on the redox, magnetic and structural properties of the zinc and cobalt complexes.
The Thia‐Michael Reactivity of Zerumbone and Related Cross‐Conjugated Dienones: Disentangling Stoichiometry, Regiochemistry, and Addition Mode with an NMR‐Spectroscopy‐Based Cysteamine Assay
Authors: Appendino Giovanni , Minassi Alberto , Collado Juan A. , Pollastro Federica , Chianese Giuseppina , Taglialatela‐Scafati Orazio , Ayyari Mehdi , Garcia Victor , Muñoz Eduardo
Published: May 2015

The cross‐conjugated and electrophilic dienone system of the humulane sesquiterpene zerumbone (1a) was modified by E/Z photochemical isomerization and/or by removal of homoconjugation with the isolated endocyclic double bond of the medium‐sized ring. The site (C‐6/C‐9), mode (transient or irreversible), stoichiometry (single or twofold), and comparative rates of thiol addition were evaluated using an NMR‐spectroscopy‐based cysteamine assay. Dramatic effects were seen, and this highlights the subtleties of the reaction and the limitations of our predictive power in this field. For biological endpoints sensitive to thiol trapping, a substantial separation between Michael reactivity and biological activity was found for 1a and its analogues. This supports the view that shape complementarity plays a critical role in the covalent binding of Michael acceptors to their macromolecular target(s).
[3+2] Route to Quaternary Oxaprolinol Derivatives as Masked Precursors of Disubstituted β3,β3‐Amino Aldehyde
Authors: Shpak‐Kraievskyi Pavlo , Mankou Makaya Amelle , Beauchard Anne , Martel Arnaud , Laurent Mathieu Y. , Dujardin Gilles
Published: May 2015

Bicyclic isoxazolidines displaying one or two quaternary stereocenter(s) were formed starting from functional cyclic ketonitrones equipped with a phenyl glycinol chiral auxiliary. The products were engaged in stereocontrolled 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reactions with a range of electron‐rich and electron‐poor dipolarophiles. A new reductive removal of the phenyl glycinol chiral auxiliary was introduced and was shown to afford chemoselectively a quaternary isoxazolidine derivative (of oxaprolinol‐type) without cleaving the N–O isoxazolidine bond. Keeping the aldehyde function masked as a cyclic pseudo‐acetal, the liberated oxy‐amine function was shown to be available for a pseudo‐peptide coupling with various N‐protected amino acids. The isoxazolidine ring was opened by a reductive N–O bond cleavage, giving a pseudo‐dipeptide that was C‐terminated with an aldehyde function.
Maximum likelihood estimation of the multivariate hidden dynamic geostatistical model with application to air quality in Apulia, Italy
Authors: Calculli Crescenza , Fassò Alessandro , Finazzi Francesco , Pollice Alessio , Turnone Annarita
Published: May 2015

Multivariate spatio‐temporal statistical models are deserving for increasing attention for environmental data in general and for air quality data in particular because they can reveal dependencies and spatio‐temporal dynamics across multiple variables and can be used to obtain dynamic concentration maps over specified areas.

In this frame, we introduce a multivariate generalization of a known spatio‐temporal model referred to as the hidden dynamic geostatistical model. Maximum likelihood parameter estimates are obtained implementing the expectation maximization algorithm and suitably extending the D‐STEM software, recently introduced for alternative model specifications, allowing to handle multiple variables with heterogeneous spatial support, covariates, and missing data.

A case study illustrates some of the statistical issues typical of a medium complexity problem related to air quality data modeling. Considering air quality and meteorological data over the Apulia region, Italy, the usual approach using meteorological variables as regressors is not possible because these data are observed on different monitoring networks, and preliminary spatial interpolation to co‐locate the data is to be avoided. Hence, an eight‐variate model is considered for understanding the relations between daily concentrations of particulate matters (PM10) and nitrogen dioxides (NO2) and six non co‐located meteorological variables. Model interpretation is given, and its use for dynamic map construction, uncertainty included, is illustrated. Moreover, some preliminary evidence of the model capability to detect a Saharan dust event is presented. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Very Special Prize
Authors: Strohschneider Peter
Published: May 2015

For three decades, it has been the most important award for researchers in Germany: the DFG's Leibniz Programme has shaped science and humanities in this country in a number of ways. This anniversary is a reason to celebrate and also to reflect on the next 30 years.
Intelligent Logistics 2.0
Authors: Gath Max , Herzog Otthein
Published: May 2015

From letters and books to medicines, express and courier delivery services have become an integral part of urban life. Managing these services presents new logistical challenges. A transfer project has revealed that self‐management and local optimisation deliver greater flexibility.
Choroid plexus separation in fetuses without ventriculomegaly: Natural course and postnatal outcome
Authors: Ipek Ali , Tanrivermis Sayit Asli , Idilman Ilkay S. , Kurt Aydın , Cay Nurdan , Unal Ozlem , Karabulut Erdem , Keskin Huseyin Levent , Karaoglanoglu Mustafa
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To evaluate fetuses with choroid plexus separation without ventriculomegaly in terms of fetal malformations, behavior of the separation during follow‐up, and postnatal outcome.

Methods

In total, 172 fetuses with choroid plexus separation without ventriculomegaly were included in this prospective study. Fetal sonography was performed at 2‐ to 4‐week intervals, and detailed physical and neurologic examinations were performed after their delivery. Fetuses were categorized into normal and abnormal subgroups according to the outcome.

Results

Sixteen fetuses (9.3%) were included in the abnormal‐outcome group and 156 fetuses (90.7%) were included in the normal‐outcome group. Both the initial mean lateral ventricular diameter (9.3 mm versus 8.6 mm) and the initial mean choroid plexus separation (4.8 mm versus 3.3 mm) were greater in the abnormal group than in the normal group (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). We found that 4.0 mm was the best cutoff point of choroid plexus separation to detect a major anomaly, with 87.5% sensitivity and 93.6% specificity.

Conclusions

Choroid plexus separation without ventriculomegaly often resolves within the third trimester and does not affect postnatal outcome. It can be associated with various fetal malformations; however, with a comprehensive examination, all fetal malformations can be detected prenatally. Follow‐up sonography studies would be useful, especially in the case of suspected corpus callosum agenesis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 43:478–484 2015
Vasa expression in spermatogenic cells during the reproductive‐cycle phases of Podarcis sicula (Reptilia, Lacertidae)
Authors: Milani Liliana , Maurizii Maria Gabriella
Published: May 2015

The vasa gene encodes a DEAD‐box ATP‐dependent RNA helicase that regulates the translation of multiple mRNAs involved in germ line differentiation. This protein has been deeply studied in many animals, but few data are available to date on reptiles. In this work, we sequenced a portion of Podarcis sicula vasa gene (Ps‐vasa), developed a specific antibody and verified its specificity. Using anti‐Ps‐Vasa and confocal microscopy, we studied Vasa expression in male germ cells during the reproductive cycle of P. sicula: during full gonadal activity (spring), during regression of gonadal activity (summer) and during slow autumnal recrudescence. We also analyzed Vasa expression in young testes when the walls of the seminiferous tubules were forming. The aim was to verify if Vasa is involved in the process of male germ cell differentiation in all phases of the reproductive cycle. In adult testes, during full gonadal activity and during recrudescence, Vasa staining was detected from spermatogonia to spermatids. Vasa spots were also observed in the nucleus of germ cells supporting its function in different cellular compartments. No Vasa staining was observed in mature spermatozoa during the spring and mid‐late November. The seminiferous epithelium analyzed in the summer appeared reduced with only spermatogonia, all Vasa‐immunostained, some in division to replace germ cells. In immature testes, the seminiferous epithelium contained only spermatogonia and spermatocytes. The clear immunostaining in their cytoplasm revealed that Vasa is already expressed in juvenile male gonads, suggesting a role in the differentiation process since P. sicula early developmental stages. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 324B: 424–434, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of Pfitzinger Reaction to the Facile One‐Pot Access of the Novel (5,6‐b)‐Quinolino‐8‐carboxylic‐acid‐Annulated Analogs of (2,3‐d)‐Azepino‐benzimidazol‐2,6‐diones of Medicinal Interest
Authors: Garg Neha , Jain Priyanka , Kishore D.
Published: May 2015

The potential of the Pfitzinger reaction has been explored to provide an expedient protocol to the synthesis of novel (5,6‐b)‐quinolino‐8‐carboxylic acid annulated analogues of (2,3‐d)‐azepino benzimidazol‐2,6‐diones 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f, 6g from (2,3‐d)‐azepino‐benzimidazol‐2,6,9‐triones 4 and isatins 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g.
Obese patients and radiography literature: what do we know about a big issue?
Authors: Le Nhat Tan Thanh , Robinson John , Lewis Sarah J.
Published: May 2015

Obesity is a global health issue with obese patients requiring specialised diagnosis, treatment and care through the health service. The practical and social difficulties associated with medical imaging of obese patients are an increasingly common problem and it is currently unknown how student and qualified radiographers perceive and respond to these challenges. By better understanding challenges presented in providing quality imaging and care of imaging obese patients, education for both qualified and student radiographers can be enhanced. Radiographers are heavily reliant on visual and tactile senses to locate the position of anatomical structures for diagnostic imaging and determine radiation exposure through a delicate consideration of dose, image quality and anatomical attenuation. However, obese patients require modifications to routine radiographic practice in terms of movement/assisted positioning, equipment capabilities to take increased weight or coverage. These patients may also be subject to compromised radiological diagnosis through poor visualisation of structures. In this paper, the professional and educational literature was narratively reviewed to assess gaps in the evidence base related to the skill and care knowledge for obese patients. Literature was sourced relating to discrete radiographic considerations such as the technical factors of imaging obese patients, exposure and the impact of obesity on imaging departments’ service provisions. The recent literature (post‐2000 to coincide with the sharp increase in global obesity) on the perceptions of health professionals and student health practitioners has also been explored because there are no specific radiographer studies to report. By understanding the research in similar fields, we may identify what common attitudes qualified and student radiographer's hold and what challenges, technical and care related, can be prepared for.
An interface‐enriched generalized finite element analysis for electromagnetic problems with non‐conformal discretizations
Authors: Zhang Kedi , Najafi Ahmad Raeisi , Jin Jian‐Ming , Geubelle Philippe H.
Published: May 2015

An interface‐enriched generalized finite element method is presented for analyzing electromagnetic problems involving highly inhomogeneous materials. To avoid creating conformal meshes within a complex computational domain and preparing multiple meshes during optimization, enriched vector basis functions are introduced over the finite elements that intersect the material interfaces to capture the normal derivative discontinuity of the tangential field component. These enrichment functions are directly constructed from a linear combination of the vector basis functions of the sub‐elements. Several numerical examples are presented to verify the method with analytical solutions and demonstrate its h‐refinement convergence rate. The proposed interface‐enriched generalized finite element method is shown to achieve the same level of accuracy as the standard finite element method based on conformal meshes. Two examples, involving multiple microvascular channels and circular inclusions of different radii, are analyzed to illustrate the capability of the proposed approach in handling complicated inhomogeneous geometries. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phosphorylation of myofibrillar proteins in post‐mortem ovine muscle with different tenderness
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Li Xin , Ni Na , Liu Yue , Chen Li , Wang Zhenyu , Shen Qingwu W , Zhang Dequan
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Tenderness is one of the most important quality attributes especially for beef and lamb. As protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation regulate glycolysis, muscle contraction and turnover of proteins within living cells, it may contribute to the conversion of muscle to meat. The changes of myofibrillar protein phosphorylation in post‐mortem ovine muscle with different levels of tenderness were investigated in this study.

RESULTS

The protein phosphorylation level (P/T ratio) of the tender group increased from 0.5 to 12 h post mortem and then decreased. The P/T ratio of tough group increased during 24 h post mortem, increasing faster from 0.5 to 4 h post mortem than from 4 to 24 h post mortem.The global phosphorylation level of tough meat was significantly higher than tender meat at 4, 12 and 24 h post mortem (P < 0.05). Protein identification revealed that most of the phosphoproteins were proteins with sarcomeric function; the others were involved in glycometabolism, stress response, etc. The phosphorylation levels of myofibrillar proteins, e.g. myosin light chain 2 and actin, were significantly different among groups of different tenderness and at different post‐mortem time points (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Protein phosphorylation may influence meat rigor mortis through contractile machinery and glycolysis, which in turn affect meat tenderness. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Single injection of basic fibroblast growth factor to treat severe vocal fold lesions and vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Kanazawa Takeharu , Komazawa Daigo , Indo Kanako , Akagi Yusuke , Lee Yogaku , Nakamura Kazuhiro , Matsushima Koji , Kunieda Chikako , Misawa Kiyoshi , Nishino Hiroshi , Watanabe Yusuke
Published: May 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Severe vocal fold lesions such as vocal fold sulcus, scars, and atrophy induce a communication disorder due to severe hoarseness, but a treatment has not been established. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) therapies by either four‐time repeated local injections or regenerative surgery for vocal fold scar and sulcus have previously been reported, and favorable outcomes have been observed. In this study, we modified bFGF therapy using a single of bFGF injection, which may potentially be used in office procedures.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

Five cases of vocal fold sulcus, six cases of scars, seven cases of paralysis, and 17 cases of atrophy were treated by a local injection of bFGF. The injection regimen involved injecting 50 µg of bFGF dissolved in 0.5 mL saline only once into the superficial lamina propria using a 23‐gauge injection needle. Two months to 3 months after the injection, phonological outcomes were evaluated.

Results

The maximum phonation time (MPT), mean airflow rate, pitch range, speech fundamental frequency, jitter, and voice handicap index improved significantly after the bFGF injection. Furthermore, improvement in the MPT was significantly greater in patients with (in increasing order) vocal fold atrophy, scar, and paralysis. The improvement in the MPT among all patients was significantly correlated with age; the MPT improved more greatly in younger patients.

Conclusions

Regenerative treatments by bFGF injection—even a single injection—effectively improve vocal function in vocal fold lesions.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:E338–E344, 2015
Fluorescence guided resection and glioblastoma in 2015: A review
Authors: Leroy Henri‐Arthur , Vermandel Maximilien , Lejeune Jean‐Paul , Mordon Serge , Reyns Nicolas
Published: May 2015

High‐grade gliomas represent a widely heterogeneous group of tumors, the most frequent of which is glioblastoma multiforme. Its annual incidence has risen over the last decades, particularly amongst elderly people. The actual standards of care allow for a 15‐month median survival rate for WHO grade IV gliomas. As recurrence occurs in more than 85% of patients at the surgical margins, the initial resection extent is a cornerstone of disease control. Fluorescence guided resection (FGR) aims at increasing complete resections and, thus, local control. This technique uses 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA), a natural intermediate substance in the heme‐porphyrin biosynthesis pathway, and a protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) precursor. PpIX is fluorescent under blue light exposure. Recent studies reported a significant increase in complete resections using FGR, which were associated with prolonged progression free survival, fewer reinterventions, and delayed neurological deterioration. Here, we depict the principles of this surgical technique, its actual outcomes, and future developments. Lasers Surg. Med. 47:441–451, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Taxonomy of Social Networking Site Users: Social Surveillance and Self‐surveillance Perspective
Authors: Park Min‐Sook , Shin Jong‐Kuk , Ju Yong
Published: May 2015

Since social networking sites (SNS) are widely used in modern society, users increasingly use SNS to manage or maintain their existing social relationships and form new ones. This research applies social surveillance and self‐surveillance to classify SNS user types and explores each type's effect on SNS’ marketing performances. Three hundred three online questionnaires are collected to test the research questions. The results of cluster analysis and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) reveal the following four user types based on the different degrees of social surveillance and self‐surveillance:versatile users,self‐expression users,pass‐along users, andintrovert users. Further, the introvert users have the least impact on product‐related information sharing, perception of social presence, purchase intention toward offers on SNS, and emotional experiences in social shopping among the four SNS user types.
Conformational effects in protein electrospray‐ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Jinyu , Santambrogio Carlo , Brocca Stefania , Rossetti Giulia , Carloni Paolo , Grandori Rita
Published: May 2015

Electrospray‐ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) is a key tool of structural biology, complementing the information delivered by conventional biochemical and biophysical methods. Yet, the mechanism behind the conformational effects in protein ESI‐MS is an object of debate. Two parameters—solvent‐accessible surface area (As) and apparent gas‐phase basicity (GBapp)—are thought to play a role in controlling the extent of protein ionization during ESI‐MS experiments. This review focuses on recent experimental and theoretical investigations concerning the influence of these parameters on ESI‐MS results and the structural information that can be derived. The available evidence supports a unified model for the ionization mechanism of folded and unfolded proteins. These data indicate that charge‐state distribution (CSD) analysis can provide valuable structural information on normally folded, as well as disordered structures. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 35: 111–122, 2016.
P‐LORAKS: Low‐rank modeling of local k‐space neighborhoods with parallel imaging data
Authors: Haldar Justin P. , Zhuo Jingwei
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To propose and evaluate P‐LORAKS a new calibrationless parallel imaging reconstruction framework.

Theory and Methods

LORAKS is a flexible and powerful framework that was recently proposed for constrained MRI reconstruction. LORAKS was based on the observation that certain matrices constructed from fully sampled k‐space data should have low rank whenever the image has limited support or smooth phase, and made it possible to accurately reconstruct images from undersampled or noisy data using low‐rank regularization. This paper introduces P‐LORAKS, which extends LORAKS to the context of parallel imaging. This is achieved by combining the LORAKS matrices from different channels to yield a larger but more parsimonious low‐rank matrix model of parallel imaging data. This new model can be used to regularize the reconstruction of undersampled parallel imaging data, and implicitly imposes phase, support, and parallel imaging constraints without needing to calibrate phase, support, or sensitivity profiles.

Results

The capabilities of P‐LORAKS are evaluated with retrospectively undersampled data and compared against existing parallel MRI reconstruction methods. Results show that P‐LORAKS can improve parallel imaging reconstruction quality, and can enable the use of new k‐space trajectories that are not compatible with existing reconstruction methods.

Conclusion

The P‐LORAKS framewok provides a new and effective way to regularize parallel imaging reconstruction. Magn Reson Med 75:1499–1514, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Utilization of a balanced steady state free precession signal model for improved fat/water decomposition
Authors: Henze Bancroft Leah C. , Strigel Roberta M. , Hernando Diego , Johnson Kevin M. , Kelcz Frederick , Kijowski Richard , Block Walter F.
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Chemical shift based fat/water decomposition methods such as IDEAL are frequently used in challenging imaging environments with large B0 inhomogeneity. However, they do not account for the signal modulations introduced by a balanced steady state free precession (bSSFP) acquisition. Here we demonstrate improved performance when the bSSFP frequency response is properly incorporated into the multipeak spectral fat model used in the decomposition process.

Theory and Methods

Balanced SSFP allows for rapid imaging but also introduces a characteristic frequency response featuring periodic nulls and pass bands. Fat spectral components in adjacent pass bands will experience bulk phase offsets and magnitude modulations that change the expected constructive and destructive interference between the fat spectral components. A bSSFP signal model was incorporated into the fat/water decomposition process and used to generate images of a fat phantom, and bilateral breast and knee images in four normal volunteers at 1.5 Tesla.

Results

Incorporation of the bSSFP signal model into the decomposition process improved the performance of the fat/water decomposition.

Conclusion

Incorporation of this model allows rapid bSSFP imaging sequences to use robust fat/water decomposition methods such as IDEAL. While only one set of imaging parameters were presented, the method is compatible with any field strength or repetition time. Magn Reson Med 75:1269–1277, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MAGPI: A framework for maximum likelihood MR phase imaging using multiple receive coils
Authors: Dagher Joseph , Nael Kambiz
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Combining MR phase images from multiple receive coils is a challenging problem, complicated by ambiguities introduced by phase wrapping, noise, and the unknown phase‐offset between the coils. Various techniques have been proposed to mitigate the effect of these ambiguities but most of the existing methods require additional reference scans and/or use ad hoc post‐processing techniques that do not guarantee any optimality.

Theory and Methods

Here, the phase estimation problem is formulated rigorously using a maximum‐likelihood (ML) approach. The proposed framework jointly designs the acquisition‐processing chain: the optimized pulse sequence is a single multiecho gradient echo scan and the corresponding postprocessing algorithm is a voxel‐per‐voxel ML estimator of the underlying tissue phase.

Results

Our proposed framework (Maximum AmbiGuity distance for Phase Imaging, MAGPI) achieves substantial improvements in the phase estimate, resulting in phase signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) gains by up to an order of magnitude compared to existing methods.

Conclusion

The advantages of MAGPI are: (1) ML‐optimal combination of phase data from multiple receive coils, without a reference scan; (2) voxel‐per‐voxel ML‐optimal estimation of the underlying tissue phase, without the need for phase unwrapping or image smoothing; and (3) robust dynamic estimation of channel‐dependent phase‐offsets. Magn Reson Med 75:1218–1231, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of anesthesia on renal R2* measured by blood oxygen level‐dependent MRI
Authors: Niles David J. , Gordon Jeremy W. , Fain Sean B.
Published: May 2015

Blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) MRI is increasingly being used to assess renal tissue oxygenation during disease based on the transverse relaxation rate (R2*). In preclinical small animal models, the requisite use of anesthesia during imaging may lead to functional changes which influence R2* and confound results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of four common anesthetic compounds on renal R2* in healthy mice. Five female ICR mice were imaged with BOLD MRI approximately 25 min after induction with isoflurane (Iso; 1% or 1.5%, delivered in 100% O2), ketamine/xylazine (KX), sodium pentobarbital (PB) or 2,2,2‐tribromoethanol (TBE). A significant effect of anesthetic agent on R2* was observed in all tissue layers of the kidney, including the cortex, outer stripe of the outer medulla (OSOM), inner stripe of the outer medulla (ISOM) and inner medulla (IM). Pairwise significant differences in R2* between specific agents were found in the cortex, OSOM and ISOM, with the largest difference observed in the ISOM between 1.5% Iso (26.6 ± 1.7 s–1) and KX (66.0 ± 7.1 s–1). The difference between 1% Iso and KX in the ISOM was not abolished when KX was administered with supplemental 100% O2 or when 1% Iso was delivered in 21% O2, indicating that the fraction of inspired oxygen did not account for the observed differences. Our results indicate that the choice of anesthesia has a large influence on the observed R2* in mouse kidney, and anesthetic effects must be considered in the design and interpretation of renal BOLD MRI studies. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A return mapping algorithm for unified strength theory model
Authors: Lin Chen , Li Yue‐Ming
Published: May 2015

A return mapping algorithm in principal stress space for unified strength theory (UST) model is presented in this paper. In contrast to Mohr–Coulomb and Tresca models, UST model contains two planes and three corners in the sextant of principal stress space, and the apex is formed by the intersection of 12 corners rather than the six corners of Mohr–Coulomb in the whole principal stress space. In order to utilize UST model, the existing return mapping algorithm in principal stress space is modified. The return mapping schemes for one plane, middle corner, and apex of UST model are derived, and corresponding consistent constitutive matrices in principal stress space are constructed. Because of the flexibility of UST, the present model is not only suitable for analysis based on the traditional yield functions, such as Mohr–Coulomb, Tresca, and Mises, but might also be used for analysis based on a series of new failure criteria. The accuracy of the present model is assessed by the iso‐error maps. Three numerical examples are also given to demonstrate the capability of the present algorithm. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The retinoid‐related orphan receptor alpha is essential for the end‐stage effector phase of experimental epidermolysis bullosa acquisita
Authors: Sadeghi Hengameh , Gupta Yask , Möller Steffen , Samavedam Unni K , Behnen Martina , Kasprick Anika , Bieber Katja , Müller Susen , Kalies Kathrin , de Castro Marques Andreia , Recke Andreas , Schmidt Enno , Zillikens Detlef , Laskay Tamás , Mariani Jean , Ibrahim Saleh M , Ludwig Ralf J
Published: May 2015

Genetic studies have added to the understanding of complex diseases. Here, we used a combined genetic approach for risk‐loci identification in a prototypic, organ‐specific, autoimmune disease, namely experimental epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA), in which autoantibodies to type VII collagen (COL7) and neutrophil activation cause mucocutaneous blisters. Anti‐COL7 IgG induced moderate blistering in most inbred mouse strains, while some showed severe disease or were completely protected. Using publicly available genotyping data, we identified haplotype blocks that control blistering and confirmed two haplotype blocks in outbred mice. To identify the blistering‐associated genes, haplotype blocks encoding genes that are differentially expressed in EBA‐affected skin were considered. This procedure identified nine genes, including retinoid‐related orphan receptor alpha (RORα), known to be involved in neurological development and function. After anti‐COL7 IgG injection, RORα+/− mice showed reduced blistering and homozygous mice were completely resistant to EBA induction. Furthermore, pharmacological RORα inhibition dose‐dependently blocked reactive oxygen species (ROS) release from activated neutrophils but did not affect migration or phagocytosis. Thus, forward genomics combined with multiple validation steps identifies RORα to be essential to drive inflammation in experimental EBA. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical and genomic heterogeneity of Diamond Blackfan anemia in the Russian Federation
Authors: Smetanina Natalia S. , Mersiyanova Irina V. , Kurnikova Maria A. , Ovsyannikova Galina S. , Hachatryan Lili A. , Bobrynina Vlasta O. , Maschan Michael A. , Novichkova Galina. A. , Lipton Jeffrey M. , Maschan Alexey A.
Published: May 2015

Background

Diamond Blackfan anemia (DBA) is a genetically and clinically heterogeneous ribosomopathy and inherited bone marrow failure syndrome characterized by anemia, reticulocytopenia, and decreased erythroid precursors in the bone marrow with an increased risk of malignancy and, in approximately 50%, physical abnormalities.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed clinical data from 77 patients with DBA born in the Russian Federation from 1993 to 2014. In 74 families there was one clinically affected individual; in only three instances a multiplex family was identified. Genomic DNA from 57 DBA patients and their first‐degree relatives was sequenced for mutations in RPS19, RPS10, RPS24, RPS26, RPS7, RPS17, RPL5, RPL11, RPL35a, and GATA1.

Results

Severe anemia presented before 8 months of age in all 77 patients; before 2 months in 61 (78.2%); before 4 months in 71 (92.2%). Corticosteroid therapy was initiated after 1 year of age in the majority of patients. Most responded initially to steroids, while 5 responses were transient. Mutations in RP genes were detected in 35 of 57 patients studied: 15 in RPS19, 6 in RPL5, 3 in RPS7, 3 each in RPS10, RPS26, and RPL11 and 1 each in RPS24 and RPL35a; 24 of these mutations have not been previously reported. One patient had a balanced chromosomal translocation involving RPS19. No mutations in GATA1 were found.

Conclusion

In our cohort from an ethnically diverse population the distribution of mutations among RP genes was approximately the same as was reported by others, although within genotypes most of the mutations had not been previously reported. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:1597–1600. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.