bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transracial adoptees bridging heritage and national cultures: Parental socialisation, ethnic identity and self‐esteem
Authors: Ferrari Laura , Ranieri Sonia , Barni Daniela , Rosnati Rosa
Published: August 2015

Transracial adoptees represent a specific group of immigrants who experience unique immigration processes that bring them face‐to‐face with two cultural backgrounds: that of their heritage culture on one hand and that of their national culture on the other hand. However, there is a scarcity of studies focused on the way these processes unfold within adoptive families. This study was aimed at exploring how transracial adoptees cope with the construction of their ethnic identity. Administering a self‐report questionnaire to 127 transracial adoptees and their mothers, for a total of 254 participants, we first investigated the association between mothers' cultural socialisation (enculturation and preparation for bias strategies) and adoptees' ethnic identity (i.e. ethnic identity exploration and ethnic identity affirmation dimensions). We then investigated whether ethnic identity affects self‐esteem by testing the hypothesis that national identity moderates the relationship between ethnic identity and self‐esteem. Results revealed that mothers' enculturation (but not their preparation for bias) supported adoptees' ethnic identity exploration, which in turn was positively associated with ethnic identity affirmation. Moreover, we confirmed the moderation effect: ethnic identity affirmation enhanced the level of self‐esteem, but only for those adoptees who perceived a higher degree of national identity affirmation.
WHI-131 Promotes Osteoblast Differentiation and Prevents Osteoclast Formation and Resorption in Mice
Authors: Cheon Yoon-Hee , Kim Ju-Young , Baek Jong Min , Ahn Sung-Jun , Jun Hong Young , Erkhembaatar Munkhsoyol , Kim Min Seuk , Lee Myeung Su , Oh Jaemin
Published: August 2015

The small molecule WHI-131 is a potent therapeutic agent with anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, and antileukemic potential. However, the regulatory effects of WHI-131 on osteoblast and osteoclast activity are unclear. We examined the effects of WHI-131 on osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation with respect to bone remodeling. The production of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) by osteoblasts in response to interleukin (IL)-1 or IL-6 stimulation decreased by 56.8% or 50.58%, respectively, in the presence of WHI-131. WHI-131 also abrogated the formation of mature osteoclasts induced by IL-1 or IL-6 stimulation. Moreover, WHI-131 treatment decreased RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation of bone marrow-derived macrophages, and reduced the resorbing activity of mature osteoclasts. WHI-131 further decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of c-Fos and nuclear factor of activated T cells, cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1) by almost twofold, and significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of the following genes: tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), osteoclast-associated receptor (OSCAR), DC-STAMP, OC-STAMP, ATP6v0d2, and cathepsin K (CtsK) compared with the control group. WHI-131 further suppressed the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) and degradation of inhibitor of kappa B (IκB); Ca2+ oscillation was also affected, and phosphorylation of the C-terminal Src kinase (c-Src)–Bruton agammaglobulinemia tyrosine kinase (Btk)–phospholipase C gamma 2 (PLCγ2) (c-Src-Btk-PLCg2 calcium signaling pathway) was inhibited following WHI-131 treatment. The Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway was activated by WHI-131, accompanied by phosphorylation of STAT3 Ser727 and dephosphorylation of STAT6. In osteoblasts, WHI-131 caused an approximately fourfold increase in alkaline phosphatase activity and Alizarin Red staining intensity. Treatment with WHI-131 increased the mRNA expression levels of genes related to osteoblast differentiation, and induced the phosphorylation of Akt, p38, and Smad1/5/8. Furthermore, 5-week-old ICR mice treated with WHI-131 exhibited antiresorbing effects in a lipopolysaccharide-induced calvaria bone loss model in vivo and increased bone-forming activity in a calvarial bone formation model. Therefore, the results of this study show that WHI-131 plays a dual role by inhibiting osteoclast differentiation and promoting osteoblast differentiation. Thus, WHI-131 could be a useful pharmacological agent to treat osteoporosis by promoting bone growth and inhibiting resorption. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Epidemiologic and etiologic characteristics of hand, foot, and mouth disease in Chongqing, China between 2010 and 2013
Authors: Lai Fang‐Fang , Yan Qiang , Ge Sheng‐Xiang , Tang Xiang , Chen Ru‐Juan , Xu Hong‐Mei
Published: August 2015

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) has become very common in children, with widespread occurrence across China. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiologic and etiologic characteristics of HFMD, including etiologic variations in Chongqing, China. An epidemiologic investigation was based on 3,472 patients who presented with HFMD manifestations and were admitted at the Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between 2010 and 2013. Fecal specimens from 830 patients were analyzed by nested RT‐PCR to identify the enterovirus pathogens, and the molecular characterization of HFMD was illustrated by phylogenetic tree analysis. The results of this study indicate that the peak of the HFMD epidemic in Chongqing between 2010 and 2013 occurred between April and July each year. The median age of onset was 2.24 years old, and children under the age of five accounted for 96.4% of all the HFMD cases; the male‐to‐female ratio was 1.89:1. Enterovirus 71 accounted for a major proportion of the isolated strains every year, including the majority (74%) of severe cases. However, the proportion of Coxsackie A (CV‐A) 6 infections increased from 2.11% in 2010 to 16.36% in 2013, while the proportion of CV‐A16 infections decreased from 31.23% in 2010 to 4.67% in 2013. Molecular epidemiologic study showed that all enterovirus 71 strains belonged to subgenotype C4a, whereas all CV‐A16 strains belonged to genotype B1, including subgenotype B1a and subgenotype B1b. J. Med. Virol. 88:408–416, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Host genetic variants influencing the clinical course of Hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Matsuura Kentaro , Isogawa Masanori , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: August 2015

The clinical course of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection greatly differs in individuals. Various viral, host, and environmental factors influence the natural history of HBV infection. Recent genome‐wide association studies identified several host genetic factors influencing the clinical course of HBV infection. Genetic variations in HLA class II loci were significantly associated with susceptibility to persistent HBV infection. Other polymorphisms in or near the genes EHMT2, TCF19, and HLA‐C, located near HLA class II loci, and UBE2L3 were also associated with persistent HBV infection. Meanwhile, polymorphisms in KIF1B, GRIK1, and STAT4 were associated with HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Interestingly, HLA class II genetic variations were strongly associated with not only persistent HBV infection, but also disease progression and HBV‐related HCC in chronic hepatitis B. Understanding the various genetic factors associated with the clinical course of HBV infection is essential for personalized treatment and surveillance of disease progression and HCC. J. Med. Virol. 88:371–379, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Liver resection after selective internal radiotherapy (SIRT): Proof of concept, initial survival, and safety
Authors: Justinger Christoph , Kouladouros Konstantinos , Gärtner Daniel , Tatsch Klaus , Reimer Peter , Rüdiger Thomas , Binnenhei Martin , Bentz Martin , Schön Michael R.
Published: August 2015

Background and Objectives

Extent of liver resections are restricted by the volume of the future liver remnant. Different strategies have been developed to increase the frequency of curative resections. Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) has emerged as an effective therapy for patients with primary non‐resectable malignancies of the liver. Here, we report the first clinical series of patients with curative liver resection following SIRT.

Methods

Starting 2010, patients with marginally resectable liver metastases treated by SIRT followed by liver resection were identified and prospectively documented in a database for subsequent retrospective analysis.

Results

Thirteen patients (five female, eight male; age 70 years [32–77 years]) with marginally resectable liver metastases were selected for liver resection after SIRT. After performing SIRT, 12 patients had potentially curative hepatic resection. In two patients, liver resection after SIRT could not be performed due to the appearance of new extrahepatic metastases. Analyzing the effect of SIRT, we observed a decrease in tumor size with central scaring. None of the patients developed liver necrosis after SIRT. Liver resection was performed safely in all patients.

Conclusions

The combination of SIRT with state‐of‐the‐art liver surgery opens up new therapeutic options in patients with liver metastases. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015; 112:436–442. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Factors related to occurrence and aggravation of pancreatic fistula after radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer
Authors: Kobayashi Daisuke , Iwata Naoki , Tanaka Chie , Kanda Mitsuro , Yamada Suguru , Nakayama Goro , Fujii Tsutomu , Koike Masahiko , Fujiwara Michitaka , Kodera Yasuhiro
Published: August 2015

Background and Objectives

Pancreatic fistula (PF) and subsequent intra‐abdominal abscess is a serious complication after gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The study aims to evaluate amylase concentration of drainage fluid (d‐AMY) and serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) as the predictive factors related to PF amounting to Clavien–Dindo (CD) grade III.

Methods

448 patients who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer were analyzed. Closed drains were placed in the left subphrenic cavity and/or Winslow's cavity depending on the procedures. The cutoff values of d‐AMY and CRP were determined, and their roles as predictive factors for CD grade III PF were evaluated.

Results

PF, diagnosed in 58 patients, was stratified according to the CD classification. Consequently, grade III PF which includes PF‐related abscesses was observed in 32 patients. The cutoff value of d‐AMY on the first postoperative day for predicting grade III PF was 1949 IU/l. The cutoff value of CRP on the third postoperative day for the same purpose was 20.44 mg/dl. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that d‐AMY and CRP were significant predictive factors for grade III PF.

Conclusions

The d‐AMY on the first postoperative day and CRP on the third postoperative day might be useful for predicting CD grade III PF after gastrectomy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015; 112:381–386. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Management of hearing loss and the normal ear in cases of unilateral Microtia with aural atresia
Authors: Billings Kathleen R. , Qureshi Hannan , Gouveia Christopher , Ittner Colleen , Hoff Stephen R.
Published: August 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To identify the rate of hearing loss related to middle ear disease and the frequency of tympanostomy tube (TT) insertion in the contralateral ear of patients with unilateral microtia/aural atresia.

Study Design

Retrospective case series of patients less than 3 years of age with unilateral microtia/aural atresia treated at an urban, tertiary care children's hospital from 2008 to 2013.

Methods

Clinical and audiologic data were reviewed. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the relative risk of TT insertion in the normal ear.

Results

A total of 72 patients were included for analysis. The average age of patients at their initial otolaryngology visit was 3.3 months (range 0.08–1.67 years); 38 (52.8%) patients were males. Aural atresia involved the right ear in 43 (59.7%) cases. Five (6.9%) patients were syndromic. Abnormal audiometric testing of the normal ear was noted in 12 (16.7%), and 14 (19.4%) underwent TT during the first 3 years of life. Twelve children (85.7%) who had a TT placed were nonsyndromic. When compared to published norms for TT placement in the general population (6.8% of children < 3 year of age), a greater proportion of children with unilateral microtia/aural atresia had TT placement in the normal ear (z = 4.26, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Patients with unilateral microtia/aural atresia have increased rates of hearing loss and middle ear effusion leading to TT in their normal ear at a higher rate versus the general population. This information can help guide more vigilant care and audiologic follow‐up in affected children.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:1470–1474, 2016
Rhinology and medical malpractice: An update of the medicolegal landscape of the last ten years
Authors: Tolisano Anthony M. , Justin Grant A. , Ruhl Douglas S. , Cable Benjamin B.
Published: August 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Malpractice claims pertaining to rhinological procedures are a potentially important source of information that could be used to minimize the risk of future litigation and improve patient care.

Study Design

A retrospective review of a publicly available database containing jury verdicts and settlements.

Methods

The LexisNexis Jury Verdicts and Settlements database was reviewed for all lawsuits and out‐of‐court adjudications related to the practice of rhinology. Data including patient demographics, type of surgery performed, plaintiff allegation, nature of injury, outcomes, and indemnities were collected and analyzed.

Results

Of 85 cases meeting inclusion criteria, 42 were decided by a jury and 43 were adjudicated out of court. Endoscopic sinus surgery was the most commonly litigated surgery. The plaintiff was favored when the eye was injured (P = 0.0196), but the defendant was favored when neuropsychological injuries (P = 0.0137) or recurrent/worsened symptoms (P = 0.0050) were cited. No difference was found when death or skull base injuries occurred. When lack of informed consent was an allegation, the defendant was favored (P = 0.0001). A payout was made in two‐thirds of cases overall, but the defendant was favored in two‐thirds of cases decided by a jury. Payments were significant for both out‐of‐court settlements ($1.3 million) and jury verdicts ($2 million).

Conclusions

Endoscopic sinus surgery remains the most commonly litigated rhinology procedure and has the potential to result in large payouts. Meticulous dissection, recognition of complications, and documentation of informed consent remain paramount for providing optimal patient care.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 126:14–19, 2016
A lean neck mass clinic model: Adding value to care
Authors: Tillman Brittny N. , Glazer Tiffany A. , Ray Amrita , Brenner J. Chad , Spector Matthew E.
Published: August 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To demonstrate that ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration (USFNA) with on‐site cytopathologic analysis eliminates unnecessary diagnostic testing, return visits, and repeat procedures and optimizes quality of care.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

Sixty‐one new patients (28 female; 33 male; age range = 19–85 years) were seen in our dedicated neck mass clinic over a 1‐year period. All patients underwent USFNA of masses located in neck levels I–VI (n = 40), parotid gland (n = 20), or parapharyngeal space (n = 1). Each patient underwent two USFNA passes followed by on‐site cytopathologic analysis with additional passes if required for diagnosis.

Results

Diagnosis was made in 93.4% (n = 57) of patients, allowing for counseling and treatment planning at the first visit. To obtain a diagnosis, more than half (57.4%, n = 35) of our patients required additional passes, which implies that they would have required an additional visit without on‐site cytopathologic analysis. Treatment included observation in 42.6% (n = 26) of patients, surgery in 32.8 % (n = 20) of patients, and nonsurgical treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, other) in 24.6% (n = 15) of patients. The average time from check‐in to checkout including the clinic visit, biopsy, and treatment counseling was 103 minutes, and the average round trip mileage traveled per patient was 127.6 miles.

Conclusions

The adult neck mass is a commonly encountered scenario in otolaryngology. For the patient, this can be a stressful situation in which timely and accurate diagnosis is critical. A dedicated lean neck mass clinic model with USFNA and on‐site cytopathologic analysis can be both an efficient part of one's practice and a valuable addition to patient care.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:2509–2513, 2015
Is Direct Seeding a Biologically Viable Strategy for Restoring Forest Ecosystems? Evidences from a Meta‐analysis
Authors: Ceccon Eliane , González Edgar J. , Martorell Carlos
Published: August 2015

Ecological restoration has become an important technique for mitigating the human impacts on natural vegetation. Planting seedlings is the most common approach to regain lost forest cover. However, these activities require a large economic investment. Direct seeding is considered a cheaper and easier alternative technique, in which tree seeds are introduced directly on the site rather than transplanting seedlings from nurseries. To evaluate the effectiveness of direct seeding, we conducted a comprehensive search of the literature using ‘restoration’, ‘direct seeding’ and ‘sowing’ as keywords, and we performed a meta‐analysis using 30 papers and 89 species. We used two different measures of restoration success: seed germination probability and success probability (the chance that a seed germinates and survives until the end of the experiment). In general, restoration attempts using direct‐seeding techniques were relatively unsuccessful. On average, seed germination and success probability were 0·239 and 0·114, respectively, and were not affected by climate, species successional group or the application of pre‐germinative treatments. Germination and success probability increased with seed size, and the use of physical protections resulted in a nearly twofold increase in germination probability, but this effect faded by the end of the experiments. Because of the low rate of seedling success, we suggest the use of direct seeding as a complementary technique to reduce restoration costs, particularly for species with large seeds and known high germination rates, but our results do not support direct seeding as a substitute for seedling planting. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Failure analysis of pre‐stressed high strength steel bars used in a wind turbine foundation: Experimental and FE simulation
Authors: Wang Y.‐F. , Li X.‐F. , Song X.‐L. , Dou D.‐Y. , Shen L.‐M. , Gong J.‐M.
Published: August 2015

Two screw‐thread pre‐stressed high strength steel bars used in a wind turbine foundation fractured suddenly and unexpectedly after being loaded by a pre‐stress for a number of hours. In this paper, on the one hand, a series of tests were conducted to determine the failure cause of the bars. The results suggest that the failure was caused by hydrogen‐assisted cracking (HAC). An amount of hydrogen had invaded into the bars, and a number of inclusions were found in the bars. The large‐size inclusions caused very high stress concentration around them, consequently resulting in excessive accumulation of hydrogen as the stress can enhance hydrogen diffusion and accumulation. The coexistence of high stress concentration and hydrogen accumulation around inclusions induced HAC, finally causing the failure. On the other hand, based on hydrogen‐influenced cohesive zone modeling (CZM), finite element calculations were performed to simulate the crack initiation in the bars. The results indicate that the CZM has a potential to predict such kind of crack initiation assisted by hydrogen, and can offer a numerical technique to determine whether HAC may occur in an actual inclusion‐ and hydrogen‐containing pre‐stressed high strength steel structure.
A ‘green’ diet‐based approach to cardiovascular health? Is inorganic nitrate the answer?
Authors: Rathod Krishnaraj Sinhji , Velmurugan Shanti , Ahluwalia Amrita
Published: August 2015

Ingestion of fruit and vegetables rich in inorganic nitrate (NO3−) has emerged as an effective method for acutely elevating vascular nitric oxide (NO) levels through formation of an NO2− intermediate. As such a number of beneficial effects of NO3− and NO2− ingestion have been demonstrated including reductions in blood pressure, measures of arterial stiffness and platelet activity. The pathway for NO generation from such dietary interventions involves the activity of facultative oral microflora that facilitate the reduction of inorganic NO3−, ingested in the diet, to inorganic NO2−. This NO2− then eventually enters the circulation where, through the activity of one or more of a range of distinct NO2− reductases, it is chemically reduced to NO. This pathway provides an alternative route for in vivo NO generation that could be utilized for therapeutic benefit in those cardiovascular disease states where reduced bioavailable NO is thought to contribute to pathogenesis. Indeed, the cardiovascular benefits of NO2− and NO3− are now starting to be translated in patients in several clinical trials. In this review, we discuss recent evidence supporting the potential utility of delivery of NO3− or NO2− for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
A novel approach to eliminate error induced by cell to node projections
Authors: Li Peichao , Zhang Lingbo , Li Peilun
Published: August 2015

In engineering practices, different numerical methods for fluid flow simulation and solid deformation/stress simulation are adopted to model fluid–structure interaction problems in porous media. Cell‐centered finite volume method is widely used in fluid flow simulation, while the solid deformation/stress simulation is usually accomplished by using the Galerkin vertex‐centered finite element method, which leads to the incompatibility between cell variables with nodal variables. Therefore, the data transfer between cell variables and nodal variables is inevitable. Consequently, this kind of transfer will lead to extra artificial error. Hence, the major concern is how to minimize the error due to cell to node projections. In this paper, a problem of pore pressure diffusion within a one‐dimensional heterogeneous porous medium is investigated. We present a new projection scheme and corresponding error formula, where the error control factor is introduced. The new projection scheme is based on piecewise linear interpolations. Results demonstrate that if the error control factor is chosen properly, the error due to the projection from cell to node can be controlled effectively, and the most desired zero error can be achieved. Finally, we analyze some practical cases in consideration of permeability contrast and mesh uniformity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prepare young leaders to be successful
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2015

BALTIMORE, MD. — Are you ever the youngest person in the room at important campus meetings? Do you have young staff members who have the potential to become leaders?
Synthesis of the Heptasaccharide Repeating Unit of the Cell Wall O‐Polysaccharide of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli O139
Authors: Ghosh Tamashree , Misra Anup Kumar
Published: August 2015

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) like the O139 strain are mostly responsible for traveler's diarrhea and causes diseases in pigs, cattle, and poultry. A convenient synthetic strategy was developed for the synthesis of the heptasaccharide repeating unit of the cell wall lipopolysaccharide of the E. coli O139 strain. The p‐methoxybenzyl (PMB) group was used as a temporary protecting group which was removed in situ under the glycosylation conditions by changing the reaction temperature during the synthesis of the target compound. All glycosylation steps gave high yields with good stereoselectivity. A (2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)oxyl (TEMPO)‐mediated selective oxidation of the primary hydroxyl group was carried out using a biphasic reaction condition at the late stage of the synthesis. Such synthetic oligosaccharides could later be effectively conjugated with proteins to prepare glycoconjugate derivatives as vaccine candidates.
Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in Central America: A Report From the Central American Association of Pediatric Hematology Oncology (AHOPCA)
Authors: Ceppi Francesco , Ortiz Roberta , Antillón Federico , Vasquez Roberto , Gomez Wendy , Gamboa Jessica , Garrido Claudia , Chantada Guillermo , Peña Armando , Gupta Sumit
Published: August 2015

Background

Although anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is curable in high‐income countries (HIC), data from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) are lacking. We therefore conducted a retrospective study of the Central American Association of Pediatric Hematology Oncology (AHOPCA) experience in treating ALCL.

Procedure

We included all patients age <18 years newly diagnosed with ALCL treated between 2000 and 2013 in seven AHOPCA institutions. Retrospective data were extracted from the Pediatric Oncology Network Database.

Results

Thirty‐one patients met inclusion criteria. Twenty‐five (81%) had advanced disease (stages III and IV), six (19%) were treated on the APO (doxorubicin, prednisone, vincristine) regimen, 15 (49%) on multi‐agent chemotherapy designed for T‐cell lineage malignancies (GuatALCL protocol), and 10 (32%) on BFM‐based treatment regimens. Five‐year overall event‐free survival and overall survival were, respectively, 67.1 ± 8.6% and 66.7 ± 8.7%. All 10 events occurred in patients treated on BFM‐based treatment regimens or the GuatALCL protocol, none on APO treatment: two patients experienced relapse, six treatment related mortality (TRM), and two abandonment.

Conclusions

Treatment of ALCL in countries with limited resources is feasible with similar outcomes as in HIC, though the causes of treatment failure differ. Less intensive regimens may be preferable in order to decrease TRM and improve outcomes. Prospective clinical trials determining the ideal treatment for LMIC children with ALCL are necessary. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fetal limb soft tissue assessment for prediction of birth weight and umbilical cord blood analytes in gestational diabetes
Authors: Garcia‐Flores Jose , Cruceyra Mireia , Cañamares Marina , Garicano Ainhoa , Nieto Olga , Lopez Ana , Dorronsoro Izaskun , Tamarit Ines , Sainz De La Cuesta Ricardo
Published: August 2015

Objective

To evaluate the value of third trimester ultrasound (estimated fetal weight, cheek‐to‐cheek diameter, sectional Wharton's jelly area, sectional areas and fractional volumes in extremities) to predict birth weight and cord biochemical markers at birth (leptin, insulin, c‐peptide, IGF1, erythropoietin and ferritin) in diabetic pregnancies.

Method

Prospective study in 49 patients with gestational diabetes. An ultrasound was performed between 32 and 34 weeks. Clinical data were collected, and a blood sample was obtained from cord after birth. ROC curve models were evaluated for 75th and 90th birth weight percentile. Univariate and multivariate models were used to assess the association between ultrasound and neonatal outcomes.

Results

Sectional areas and fractional volumes showed significant differences and highest AUC values for predicting birth weight. A significant association was found for extremities measurements with total birth weight and its percentile. The only marker which showed a significant association to estimated fetal weight was erythropoietin. Sectional areas and fractional volumes related to cord leptin, erythropoietin, insulin and c‐peptide.

Conclusion

Sectional areas and fractional volumes improve the predictive value of estimated fetal weight in diabetic pregnancies. They also show a predictive association to biochemical changes in cord (leptin, insulin and erythropoietin) related to increased adiposity and risk of fetal hypoxia. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Charge transport properties of MDMO PPV thin films cast in different solvents
Authors: Raj Mohan S. , Joshi M. P. , Shalu C. , Ghosh C. , Mukharjee C. , Kukreja L. M.
Published: August 2015

Charge transport properties in thin films of Poly(2‐methoxy‐5‐(3′,7′‐dimethyloctyloxy)‐1,4‐phenylenevinylene) (MDMO PPV) cast using either chloroform (CF), toluene (TOL), or chlorobenzene (CB) as solvent were investigated. Hole mobility (μ) in these thin films measured using time‐of‐flight transient photoconductivity showed an increasing trend with respect to the solvent used in the same order, that is, μCF (2.4 × 10−7 cm2/Vs) < μTOL (6.9 × 10−7 cm2/Vs) < μCB (2.3 × 10−6 cm2/Vs). Observed variations in mobilities were attributed to different morphologies of MDMO PPV chains in thin films cast using the aforesaid solvents. Nature of the interchain interactions and aggregate formation were obtained using photoluminescence (PL), Raman spectroscopy, and AFM studies. Ratio of PL peak intensities of 0–0 and 0–1 transitions, which is a direct measure of interchain interaction, was the highest in CB and lowest in CF. Variation in the relative intensities of out‐of‐plane wagging of vinylene group (∼963 cm−1 mode) in Raman spectra suggested different extent of coiling of polymer chains in these thin films. From these observations, it was elicited that aggregate size and interchain interactions are highest in CB and least in CF. AFM‐based topographic images of thin films further supported these variations in the size of aggregates. Variation in the aggregate sizes and interchain interactions explained the corresponding variation in the mobility. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 1431–1439
Comparison of the Effects of Testosterone Gels, Injections, and Pellets on Serum Hormones, Erythrocytosis, Lipids, and Prostate-Specific Antigen
Authors: Pastuszak Alexander W. , Gomez Lissette P. , Scovell Jason M. , Khera Mohit , Lamb Dolores J. , Lipshultz Larry I.
Published: August 2015

Introduction

Numerous testosterone (T) formulations are available, each with differing effects on serum parameters.

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the long-term effects of topical, injectable, and implantable pellet T formulations in hypogonadal men.

Methods

Retrospective review of hypogonadal men treated with a single T formulation was performed: 47 men on T gels, 57 on injectable T, and 74 on T pellets were identified. Total T (TT), calculated free T (FT), estradiol (E), hemoglobin (Hgb), hematocrit (Hct), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), total cholesterol (Tchol), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were evaluated at baseline and every 3–6 months for 3 years. Serum parameters were compared using a mixed model linear regression for repeated measures.

Main Outcome Measures

Effects of topical, injectable, and pellet T formulations on serum hormone levels, Hgb, Hct, lipid parameters and PSA.

Results

Men in the injectable T group were younger (42.5 ± 12.3 years) than in the gel (54.1 ± 9.8 years) or pellet groups (53.8 ± 13.0 years), and baseline FT, Hgb, and Hct were higher in the injectable T group than in gel or pellet groups. Increases in TT and FT were observed throughout follow-up in all groups. Increases in E were observed at in all T groups and throughout follow-up in injectable and gel groups. No PSA increases were observed. Erythrocytosis (Hct > 50%) was more common with injectable T (66.7%) than with T gels (12.8%) or pellets (35.1%, P < 0.0001). Transient changes in cholesterol, TG, and LDL were observed, and no significant changes were seen in HDL for any group.

Conclusions

All T formulations increase serum T and FT. More significant increases in E occur with injectable T and T gels. Changes in Hgb and Hct are most significant with injectable T, and effects on lipids are variable and inconsistent. Selection of T formulations must account for individual patient preferences and the effects of each formulation.
Developmental regulation of planar cell polarity and hair‐bundle morphogenesis in auditory hair cells: lessons from human and mouse genetics
Authors: Lu Xiaowei , Sipe Conor W.
Published: August 2015

Hearing loss is the most common and costly sensory defect in humans and genetic causes underlie a significant proportion of affected individuals. In mammals, sound is detected by hair cells (HCs) housed in the cochlea of the inner ear, whose function depends on a highly specialized mechanotransduction organelle, the hair bundle. Understanding the factors that regulate the development and functional maturation of the hair bundle is crucial for understanding the pathophysiology of human deafness. Genetic analysis of deafness genes in animal models, together with complementary forward genetic screens and conditional knock‐out mutations in essential genes, have provided great insights into the molecular machinery underpinning hair‐bundle development and function. In this review, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of hair‐bundle morphogenesis, with an emphasis on the molecular pathways governing hair‐bundle polarity and orientation. We next discuss the proteins and structural elements important for hair‐cell mechanotransduction as well as hair‐bundle cohesion and maintenance. In addition, developmental signals thought to regulate tonotopic features of HCs are introduced. Finally, novel approaches that complement classic genetics for studying the molecular etiology of human deafness are presented. WIREs Dev Biol 2016, 5:85–101. doi: 10.1002/wdev.202

This article is categorized under:

Signaling Pathways > Global Signaling Mechanisms

Nervous System Development > Vertebrates: Regional Development

Birth Defects > Organ Anomalies
An overview on the exploitation of time in collaborative filtering
Authors: Vinagre João , Jorge Alípio Mário , Gama João
Published: August 2015

Classic Collaborative Filtering (CF) algorithms rely on the assumption that data are static and we usually disregard the temporal effects in natural user‐generated data. These temporal effects include user preference drifts and shifts, seasonal effects, inclusion of new users, and items entering the system—and old ones leaving—user and item activity rate fluctuations and other similar time‐related phenomena. These phenomena continuously change the underlying relations between users and items that recommendation algorithms essentially try to capture. In the past few years, a new generation ofCFalgorithms has emerged, using the time dimension as a key factor to improve recommendation models. In this overview, we present a comprehensive analysis of these algorithms and identify important challenges to be faced in the near future.WIREs Data Mining Knowl Discov2015, 5:195–215. doi: 10.1002/widm.1160

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Spatial and Temporal Data Mining

Application Areas > Data Mining Software Tools
Synthesis and Surface Active Properties of tri[(N‐alkyl‐N‐ethyl‐N‐Sodium carboxymethyl)‐2‐Ammonium bromide ethylene] Amines
Authors: Zhou Ming , Luo Gang , Wang Xingwen , Zhang Ze , Wang Gang
Published: August 2015

Trimeric betaine surfactants tri[(N‐alkyl‐N‐ethyl‐N‐sodium carboxymethyl)‐2‐ammonium bromide ethylene] amines were prepared with raw materials containing tris(2‐aminoethyl) amine, alkyloyl chloride, lithium aluminium hydride, sodium chloroacetate, and bromoethane by alkylation, Hoffman degradation reaction, carboxymethylation and quaternary amination reaction. The chemical structures of the prepared compounds were confirmed by FTIR, 1H NMR, MS and elemental analysis. With the increasing length of the carbon chain, the values of their critical micelle concentration initially decreased. Surface active properties of these compounds were superior to general carboxylate surfactants C10H21CHN+(CH3)2COONa. The minimum cross‐sectional area per surfactant molecule (Amin), standard Gibbs free energy adsorption (ΔGads) and standard Gibbs free energy micellization (ΔGmic) are notably influenced by the chain length n, and the trimeric betaine surfactants have greater ability to adsorb at the air/water interface than form micelles in solution. The efficiency of adsorption at the water/air interface (pC20) of these surfactants increased with the increasing length of the alkyl chain. Their foaming properties, wetting ability of a felt chip, and lime‐soap dispersing ability were also investigated.
Alkenyl Succinic Anhydride Structure Influences the Surface Activities of Gelatin Derivatives
Authors: Lin Li‐Huei , Liu Hsin‐Jiant , Chu Hawn‐Chung , Hwang Mou‐Chuan , Chen Keng‐Ming , Tan Ewe‐Chuan
Published: August 2015

In this study, sodium hydroxide was employed to decompose animal gelatin. The gelatin hydrolysate was then reacted with polyisobutenyl succinic anhydride, containing a hydrophilic substituent, to produce a series of gelatin derivatives (GD) that featured both hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups, thereby displaying the behavior of surfactants. The structures of the synthesized surfactants were examined using infrared spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; the basic surface properties, including surface tension, contact angle, emulsifying capacity, and foamability, were also determined. The synthesized GD surfactants had superior surface activities. In addition, the surface activities of the GD. increased upon increasing the length of the hydrophobic unit and the molecular weight. These GD exhibited good foamability and emulsifying capacity, with the GD containing PBMA 320 possessing the greatest surface activity.
Protective Effect of Unsaturated Fatty Acids on Palmitic Acid‐Induced Toxicity in Skeletal Muscle Cells is not Mediated by PPARδ Activation
Authors: Tumova Jana , Malisova Lucia , Andel Michal , Trnka Jan
Published: August 2015

Unsaturated free fatty acids (FFA) are able to prevent deleterious effects of saturated FFA in skeletal muscle cells although the mechanisms involved are still not completely understood. FFA act as endogenous ligands of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPAR), transcription factors regulating the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism. The aim of this study was to determine whether activation of PPARδ, the most common PPAR subtype in skeletal muscle, plays a role in mediating the protective effect of unsaturated FFA on saturated FFA‐induced damage in skeletal muscle cells and to examine an impact on mitochondrial respiration. Mouse C2C12 myotubes were treated for 24 h with different concentrations of saturated FFA (palmitic acid), unsaturated FFA (oleic, linoleic and α‐linolenic acid), and their combinations. PPARδ agonist GW501516 and antagonist GSK0660 were also used. Both mono‐ and polyunsaturated FFA, but not GW501516, prevented palmitic acid‐induced cell death. Mono‐ and polyunsaturated FFA proved to be effective activators of PPARδ compared to saturated palmitic acid; however, in combination with palmitic acid their effect on PPARδ activation was blocked and stayed at the levels observed for palmitic acid alone. Unsaturated FFA at moderate physiological concentrations as well as GW501516, but not palmitic acid, mildly uncoupled mitochondrial respiration. Our results indicate that although unsaturated FFA are effective activators of PPARδ, their protective effect on palmitic acid‐induced toxicity is not mediated by PPARδ activation and subsequent induction of lipid regulatory genes in skeletal muscle cells. Other mechanisms, such as mitochondrial uncoupling, may underlie their effect.
Antioxidant Activity of Hybrid Grape Pomace Extracts Derived from Midwestern Grapes in Bulk Oil and Oil‐in‐Water Emulsions
Authors: Bakota Erica L. , Winkler‐Moser Jill K. , Berhow Mark A. , Palmquist Debra E. , Liu Sean X.
Published: August 2015

Natural antioxidants to inhibit oxidation in edible oils are in high demand. Grape pomace is an abundant, inexpensive source of polyphenolic antioxidants, which are responsible for numerous health benefits. We examined pomace from eight varieties of Midwestern hybrid grapes for phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Ethanolic extracts produced from the pomace of each grape variety were added to two model systems, bulk soybean oil and oil‐in‐water emulsions, to determine antioxidant activity. Oxidation was monitored in each model system at a temperature appropriate to that particular system. While the extracts had relatively little effect in bulk oil, we observed dose‐dependent antioxidant effects of some extracts in oil‐in‐water emulsions. Oxidation in bulk oils was assessed via total polar compounds and polymerized triacylglycerols. Oxidation in emulsions was assessed by peroxide value, headspace oxygen measurements, gas chromatography of headspace volatiles, and fatty acid analysis. Pomace extracts derived from red grapes generally outperformed those from white grapes, with the Marechal Foch variety showing high antioxidant activity at intermediate concentrations. At higher concentrations, Marechal Foch, Corot Noir, Frontenac, and Norton extracts showed promising antioxidant activity. This is the first report on antioxidant activity in an oil and emulsion setting for many of these grape varieties.
The Effect of Boron Application on Chemical Characterization and Volatile Compounds of Virgin Olive Oil of Ayvalik Olive Cultivar
Authors: Toker Cem , Yavuz Namik
Published: August 2015

In this study, the Ayvalik olive variety, an important and widely grown olive variety in Turkey, was chosen. A month prior to blooming and 2 months prior to harvesting in 2011 and 2012, three different concentrations of boron (100, 150 and 250 ppm) were applied to the olive leaves with or without boron deficiencies. After the application, quality criteria, fatty acid composition, total phenol contents and major volatile compounds of olive oil that was obtained from the harvested olives were investigated. Boron application to the olive trees with boron deficiencies has improved both the amount and the olive oil quality. Experimental results show the significance of boron for olive farming. Application of boron in 150 ppm led to a better olive oil quality by improving fatty acid composition [oleic acid (76.03 %), linoleic acid (9.68 %), linolenic acid (0.56 %), monounsaturated fatty acid (77.24 %)], total phenol content (422.94 ppm) and major volatile compounds [E‐2‐hexenal (43.12 ppm), hexanal (3.02 ppm), Z‐3‐hexenol (1.13 ppm)] in both harvest seasons (2011–2012) and in both olive orchards with or without boron deficiencies.
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Among Dutch and Belgian Adolescents: Personality, Stress and Coping
Authors: Kiekens G. , Bruffaerts R. , Nock M.K. , Van de Ven M. , Witteman C. , Mortier P. , Demyttenaere K. , Claes L.
Published: August 2015

Background

This study examines: (1) the prevalence of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) among Dutch and Belgian adolescents, (2) the associations between Big Five personality traits and NSSI engagement/versatility (i.e., number of NSSI methods), and (3) whether these associations are mediated by perceived stress and coping.

Methods

A total of 946 Flemish (46%) and Dutch (54%) non-institutionalized adolescents (Mean age = 15.52; SD = 1.34, 44% females) were surveyed. Measures included the NSSI subscale of the Self-Harm-Inventory, the Dutch Quick Big Five Personality questionnaire, the Perceived Stress Scale and the Utrecht Coping List for Adolescents. Examination of zero-order correlations was used to reveal associations, and hierarchical regression analysis was used to reveal potential mediators which were further examined within parallel mediation models by using a bootstrapping-corrected procedure.

Results

Lifetime prevalence of NSSI was 24.31%. Neuroticism; perceived stress; and distractive, avoidant, depressive, and emotional coping were positively associated with NSSI engagement, whereas Agreeableness, Conscientiousness; and active, social, and optimistic coping were negatively associated with NSSI engagement. Observed relationships between personality traits and NSSI engagement were consistently explained by perceived stress and depressive coping. A higher versatility of NSSI was not associated with any Big Five personality trait, but was associated with higher scores on perceived stress and depressive coping and with lower scores on active and optimistic coping.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that a specific personality constellation is associated with NSSI engagement via high stress levels and a typical depressive reaction pattern to handle stressful life events.
Papaverine 7‐O‐demethylase, a novel 2‐oxoglutarate/Fe2+‐dependent dioxygenase from opium poppy
Authors: Farrow Scott C. , Facchini Peter J.
Published: August 2015

Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) produces several pharmacologically important benzylisoquinoline alkaloids including the vasodilator papaverine. Pacodine and palaudine are tri‐O‐methylated analogs of papaverine, which contains fourO‐linked methyl groups. However, the biosynthetic origin of pacodine and palaudine has not been established. Three members of the 2‐oxoglutarate/Fe2+‐dependent dioxygenases (2ODDs) family in opium poppy display widespreadO‐dealkylation activity on several benzylisoquinoline alkaloids with diverse structural scaffolds, and two are responsible for the antepenultimate and ultimate steps in morphine biosynthesis. We report a novel 2ODD from opium poppy catalyzing the efficient substrate‐ and regio‐specific 7‐O‐demethylation of papaverine yielding pacodine. The occurrence of papaverine 7‐O‐demethylase (P7ODM) expands the enzymatic scope of the 2ODD family in opium poppy and suggests an unexpected biosynthetic route to pacodine.
Bioimaging of microRNA124a‐independent neuronal differentiation of human G2 neural stem cells
Authors: Lee Jonghwan , Hwang Do Won , Kim Seung U. , Lee Dong Soo , Lee Yong Seung , Heo Hyejung , Ali Bahy A. , Al-Khedhairy Abdulaziz A. , Kim Soonhag
Published: August 2015

Evaluation of the function of microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) through miRNA expression profiles during neuronal differentiation plays a critical role not only in identifying unique miRNAs relevant to cellular development but also in understanding regulatory functions of the cell‐specific miRNAs in living organisms. Here, we examined the microarray‐based miRNA expression profiles of G2 cells (recently developed human neural stem cells) and monitored the expression pattern of known neuron‐specific miR‐9 and miR‐124a during neuronal differentiation of G2 cellsin vitro andin vivo. Of 500 miRNAs analyzed by microarray of G2 cells, the expression of 90 miRNAs was significantly increased during doxycycline‐dependent neuronal differentiation of G2 cells and about 60 miRNAs showed a gradual enhancement of gene expression as neuronal differentiation progressed. Real‐time PCR showed that expression of endogenous mature miR‐9 was continuously and gradually increased in a pattern dependent on the period of neuronal differentiation of G2 cells while the increased expression of neuron‐specific mature miR‐124a was barely observed during neurogenesis. Our recently developed miRNA reporter imaging vectors (CMV/Gluc/3×PT_miR‐9 and CMV/Gluc/3×PT_miR‐124a) containing Gaussia luciferase, CMV promoter and three copies of complementary nucleotides of each corresponding miRNA showed that luciferase activity from CMV/Gluc/3×PT_miR‐9 was gradually decreased bothin vitro andin vivo in G2 cells induced to differentiate into neurons. However,in vitro andin vivo bioluminescence signals for CMV/Gluc/3×PT_miR‐124a were not significantly different between undifferentiated and differentiated G2 cells. Our results demonstrate that biogenesis of neuron‐specific miR‐124a is not necessary for doxycycline‐dependent neurogenesis of G2 cells.