bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable care improvement programs supported by undergraduate health care education
Authors: Smits Carolien H.M. , Harps-Timmerman Annelies , Jukema Jan S. , Stoopendaal Annemieke , Kamper Ad M. , Strating Mathilde M.H. , Bal Ronald
Published: June 2017

Background: The Care for Better Region program was developed to achieve sustainable care improvement focusing on fall prevention. Key ingredients involved improvement teams developing and implementing a falls reduction plan, Practice Development; facilitation of improvement teams by lecturers and undergraduate health care students; an implementation phase. This study evaluates the impact of this program on: (1) the number of falls incidents, and (2) the sustainability of care improvement practice.Methods: A realist evaluation design was used. Nine improvement teams participated in the Care for Better Region program. Staff members registered falls incidents in two measurement cycles in the participating teams (N = 143 older adults) and in a control group (N = 93). Data collection on improvement sustainability involved participative observations, interviews, logs of students and lecturer coaches, minutes and evaluations.Results: The falls incidents on the participating wards decreased over 12 months from 13.3% to 1.4%. At the control wards they stabilized. Sustainability of improvement practice: (1) Involvement of improvement teams was enhanced by measurements of falls incidents. However, involvement of ward staff was difficult to accomplish; (2) Students, lecturer coaches and project leaders of the improvement teams learned how to involve stakeholders, implement project management, and how to prevent falls incidents; (3) Network facilitation was promoted by the central meetings. The project leaders’ meetings continued after the project; (4) Students facilitated the improvement teams. The change of students after six and twelve months inspired the teams to renew their focus.Conclusions: This exploratory realist evaluation study shows how the Care for Better Region program improved sustainability of falls incidents reduction. The program also had a positive impact on the sustainability of improvement practice. Nursing education should focus on the development of innovation and facilitation skills in students. Nursing practice may improve by interdisciplinary collaboration with undergraduate health care education in care improvement programs.
Accelrated Reader Program: What do Teachers Really Think
Authors: Smith Amy Frances , Westberg Karen , Hejny Anne
Published: June 2017

What do teachers really think about the Accelerated Reader program, a widely used supplemental, independent reading program in which their students read fiction and non-fiction books of their choice and take brief online comprehension quizzes about the books? The Accelerated Reader (AR) program was designed by Renaissance Learning Company to increase students’ motivation to read and students’ achievement in reading; however, a review of the literature reveals inconsistent findings about its outcomes. Very few studies have been conducted seeking teacher input as to whether the program to achieves its intended outcomes. The goal of this study is to survey teachers (Grades 3 – 8) who use AR as a curricular component of their literacy program. We sought to learn about how teachers use the program and perceive its effectiveness as well as how it impacts their students’ interest and achievement in reading. We gathered data using an online questionnaire from teachers in urban, rural, exurban and suburban school settings in both elementary and middle schools. Teachers were asked to respond to items based on a 4 –point scale from strongly disagree to strongly agree including an open-ended response section.The respondents were primarily from suburban and exurban districts and they have been using the program between 1-15 years. Most of the teachers indicated their students enjoy the program and most teachers require their students to take the AR quizzes.Results indicate most teachers believe that Accelerated Reader program motivates their students to read; however, they also recognize that AR is largely an accountability measure ensuring that their students read independently. Additionally, teachers recognize that AR measures comprehension at knowledge-recall level and is not an overall strong indicator of reading comprehension. Therefore, some teachers have made their own modifications to the program.
Review of the Research on the Impact of Online Shopping Return Policy on Consumer Behavior
Authors: Wang Miao , Qu HongJian
Published: June 2017

Based on the relevant literature, this paper study the impact of online shopping return policy on consumer purchase behavior from the dimension of return policy, consumer perception, consumer purchase behavior and so on. In the online shopping environment, the return problem between retailers and consumers is more obvious. Based on the researching achievements of predecessors, return policy can be divided into three dimensions: return cost, return time limit and efforts. Consumer psychological perception of return policy is based on the traditional consumer perception, which can be summarized into three aspects: perceived risk, perceived quality and perceived fairness. In the online shopping environment, the consumer purchase behavior is still a specific research and in-depth discussion. The return policy, as the key information between the two decision points, is of great importance to consumers' purchase and return behaviors.
Research on the Influence of Web Experience on Consumers’ Purchasing Intention
Authors: Pan Yuanyuan , Wang Miao , Chen Cong , Qu Hongjian
Published: June 2017

The conversion rate is the core of e-commerce sites, and web experience is one of the most important factors of web conversion. A good web experience can bring consumers with trust and confidence, so that improve the income and profitability of the e-commerce business. This paper reviews the theory of web experience, the consumers’ purchasing intention and other related theories. In this study, we systematically analyze the definition, measurement, evaluation system and application status of web experience, and discusses the relationship between web experience and consumers’ purchasing intention. Research shows that the web experience is the weight of web design to the decision-making factors, the existing research on the web experience’s definition, composition there are different, resulting in web experience measurement and evaluation different; web experience measurement methods and quantitative evaluation methods have yet to be improved. According to previous research, we summarize the shortcomings of current web evaluation and provide a direction for future research on web experience and consumers’ purchasing intention.
Brewer’s Spent Grains Protects against Oxidative DNA Damage in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Moreira Manuela M. , Carvalho Daniel O. , Oliveira Rui , Johansson Björn , Guido Luís F.
Published: June 2017

Brewer’s spent grain (BSG), obtained from barley malt during brewing, contains high amounts of phenolic acids, predominantly ferulic and p-coumaric acids. The protective effects of BSG extracts against oxidative DNA damage induced by H2O2 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells were investigated using an optimized yeast comet assay and flow cytometry. The results indicated that BSG extracts from black malt exhibited a 5-fold reduction in the genotoxic effects of H2O2, compared to the 2-fold decrease by the BSG extracts from pilsen malts. Flow cytometry analysis with dichlorofluorescein diacetate demonstrated that the intracellular oxidation of S. cerevisiae is also reduced to approximately 50% in the presence of 20-fold diluted BSG extracts. BSG extracts obtained from pilsen and black malt types exert dose-dependent protective properties against the genotoxic effects induced by ROS and decrease intracellular oxidation of yeast cells.
Proximate Composition, Amino and Fatty Acid Profiles and Element Compositions of Four Different Moringa Species
Authors: Stadtlander T. , Becker K.
Published: June 2017

Several species of trees belong to the genus Moringa, but only one, Moringa oleifera (Lam.), has been intensively studied. No data has been published so far on the nutritional properties of M. stenopetala, M. drouhardii or M. hildebrandtii. In this study, kernels and leaves of M. oleifera, M. stenopetala, M. drouhardii and M. hildebrandtii have been analysed for their protein, fat, amino acid, fatty acid and macro- and microelements and discussed in relation to the known nutritional requirements of a young child. This study suggests that Moringa leaves, especially those of M. oleifera, are a suitable source of amino acids, vitamins and several elements but not for lipids and fatty acids. Moringa kernels are less suited as vegetable but are a suitable source for oils with M. oleifera seeds showing the best kernel to shell ratio.
A Comparative Study on Root Traits of Spring and Winter Canola (Brassica napus L.) under Controlled and Water Stressed Conditions
Authors: Arif Uz Zaman Muhammad , Rahman Mukhlesur
Published: June 2017

Root system in canola (Brassica napus L.) varies largely in different growth habit types. A study was conducted with five winter and five spring types of canola germplasm. The objective was to identify the gradual change of root traits at different growth habits stages under controlled and water stressed conditions. Two experiments, controlled and water stressed, were conducted in a greenhouse. Data on different root traits were collected at 30, 40, 50 and 60 days after planting. In controlled experiment, no significant difference was observed for root traits between winter and spring types at 30 days after planting. However, significant variations were appeared for taproot length (F = 10.17***) and root dry weight (F = 16.96***) between winter and spring types at 40 days after planting. All other root parameters such as basal taproot diameter (F = 22.14***), bottom taproot diameter (F = 4.59*), primary root branches (F = 78.70***) and root vigor (F = 47.18***) were significantly higher in the winter types compared to those of the spring types at 60 days after planting. Growth pattern curves indicated that all the root traits of spring types increased in a steady fashion, where the root traits of winter types increased rapidly after 40 days of planting. In water stressed experiment, the water stress was applied from 20 to 60 days after planting, and data was taken at 60 days after planting. All the root parameters except taproot length were significantly (P < 0.001) lower in the stressed spring and winter plants compared to the control plants. The root growth reduction in stressed winter type germplasms was higher. Basal taproot diameter, bottom taproot diameter, primary root branches, root vigor, and root dry weight were decreased by 43%, 63%, 19%, 31% and 53%, respectively in stressed winter type plants. In contrast, the root growth reduction of the spring type germplasms were relatively lower. This study indicated that winter type canola generates vigorous root system in comparison to spring types under normal growing conditions, but ceases its root growth rate more than the spring types under water stressed conditions.
Suppressive Effects of Puerariae Radix on the Breast Tumor Incidence in Rats Treated with DMBA
Authors: Chen Chien-Hung , Wu Szu-Hsien , Tseng Yang-Ming , Liao Jia-Bin , Fu Hsiao-Ting , Tsai Shih-Meng , Tsai Li-Yu
Published: June 2017

Puerariae Radix (PR) is the root of Pueraria lobata, an herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and as a food seasoning. Owing to its potential anti-oxidative ability, the effects of PR on the inhibition of breast tumors were investigated in this study using the 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-treated rat model. Thirty-two female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to one of four different treatment groups, with or without PR and/or DMBA administration. At the age of 177 days, all rats were sacrificed, the number and size of tumors were recorded, and blood and tissue samples were collected for assessment of hematological parameters, redox status, and tumorigenesis-related factors. We found that PR supplementation decreased tumor incidence and WBC count but increased the IgM levels, and significantly altered the redox status, elevated serum TGF-Beta levels, and reduced serum VEGF-C and ICAM-1 levels. The mechanism by which PR decreased the incidence of DMBA-induced rat breast tumors might include ameliorating immunity, enhancing the antioxidant status, increasing the hepatic excretion of carcinogenic metabolites of DMBA, and influencing the expression of tumorigenesis-related factors.
From the Nadir of Negativity towards the Cusp of Reconciliation
Authors: Zwart Hub ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: June 2017

This contribution addresses the anthropocenic challenge from a dialectical perspective, combining a diagnostics of the present with a prognostic of the emerging future. It builds on the oeuvres of two prominent dialectical thinkers, namely Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel (1770–1831) and Pierre Teilhard de Chardin (1881–1955). Hegel himself was a pre-anthropocenic thinker who did not yet thematise the anthropocenic challenge as such, but whose work allows us to emphasise the unprecedented newness of the current crisis. I will especially focus on his views on Earth as a planetary process, emphasising that (in the current situation) the “spirit” of technoscience is basically monitoring the impacts of its own activities on geochemistry and evolution. Subsequently, I will turn attention to Teilhard de Chardin, a palaeontologist and philosopher rightfully acknowledged as one of the first thinkers of the Anthropocene whose oeuvre provides a mediating middle term between Hegel’s conceptual groundwork and the anthropocenic present. Notably, I will discuss his views on self-directed evolution, on the on-going absorption of the biosphere by the noosphere, and on emerging options for “sublating” the current crisis into a synthetic convergence towards (what Teilhard refers to as) the Omega point. I will conclude that (a), after disclosing the biomolecular essence of life, biotechnology must now take a radical biomimetic turn (a shift from domesticating nature to the domestication of domestication, i.e., of technology); that (b) reflection itself must become distributed and collective; and (c), that the anthropocenic crisis must be sublated into the noocene.
Geoquímica das paisagens tropicais: o papel das coberturas pedológicas
Authors: Boulet René , Lucas Yves , Fritsch Emmanuel , Paquet Hélène
Published: June 2017

Tradução a partir do original Géochimie des paysages: le rôle des couvertures pédologiques, apresentado no Colloque Sédimentologie et Géochimie de la Surface à la mémoire de Georges Millot, publicado pela Académie des Sciences et du CADAS, p. 55-76, 1993. Tradução de Carlos Roberto Espindola, Universidade Estadual de Campinas. Revisado por Selma Simões de Castro, Universidade Federal de Goiás
Adverse reactions to fluconazole: Illustrative case with focus on desensitization
Authors: Craig Timothy J.
Published: June 2017

Fluconazole is an azole antifungal agent. Because it can be taken orally, it is perferred over amphotericin B for long-term treatment. Indications for fluconazole are increasing. Reports of hypersensitivity have been described. If adequate alternative therapy is not available, desensitization may be necessary. Desensitization with fluconazole has not been described. The patient described in this report required fluconazole and was successfully desensitized after manifesting a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction. The patient underwent desensitization during a IS-day period. The starting dose was less than 0.001 dose, with doubling each day. During desensitization, the patient experienced a slight transient rash that resolved with continued therapy. After desensitization, he has continued using fluconazole daily without adverse effects. This report indicates that desensitization to fluconazole can be accomplished safely in selected patients. A suggested desensitization protocol is provided.
The anatomy of an OPTI: Part 2. The CORE system. Ohio Osteopathic Hospital Association. Ohio Association of Osteopathic Medical Directors. Ohio Osteopathic Association
Authors: Portanova Ronald , Meyers Christopher T , RN CherylRiley, , Baker Dennis , Bsc Brian Phillips, , Mann Douglas , Smith Charlene , Synder Gary , Ross-Lee Barbara
Published: June 2017

In July 1995, the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) Board of Trustees passed new regulations regarding the accreditation of osteopathic graduate medical education (GME) by establishing the Osteopathic Postdoctoral Training institutions (OPTI) system. This system must be phased in by July 1999. The principal changes resulting from the OPTI system include establishing requirements for college cosponsorship of GME programs and for the number of residency programs, interns, and residents to be trained by the OPTI. In essence, OPTI is an osteopathic acronym for consortium. Each OPTI must include at least one college of osteopathic medicine (COM) and one AOA-accredited hospital. The OPTIs will be subject to interval AOA inspections and will be required to demonstrate a governing. system, mission statement, organizational structure, and the presence of faculty development programs. The first article in this two-part series, published in the October ]AOA, provided a general blueprint for OPTI building and presented both positive and negative issues germane to the formation of OPTIs. Part 2 reinforces the considerations outlined in Part 1 by describing the formation of a large OPTI-the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine (OU-COM) Centers of Osteopathic Regional Education (CORE) system. Key features are described, including the mission statement, organizational structure, committee system, governance, GME programs, operations, and budget.
Reflekterende skriving som kroppslig erfaring. Erfaringer fra kommunikasjonsundervisning
Authors: Øien Aud Marie
Published: June 2017

The aim of the study was to explore how third year social educator students reflect in writing on challenging practice-based experiences of communication, and how they experience the writing process. Based on selected and analyzed research material of students’ texts of reflective writing and texts of comments on reflective writing, following findings emerged: I) Experiences of reflective writing included the themes a) to learn to reflect and to become conscious of lived experiences, and b) to improve reflection on connections between experienced relationships and theoretical concepts. II) Reflecting on participation in challenging relationships in specific contexts of communication: a) the relationship of a student and a service receiver with learning disabilities preparing crossing a road, and b) the relationship between a student, a colleague and a patient with stroke, ordering food in a restaurant. Use of reflective writing facilitates self-consciousness, professional reflection and action.
Der erste Schritt der Oxidation elementaren Schwefels – die Struktur des Schwefelradikalkations [S8].+ im Kristall
Authors: Derendorf Janis , Jenne Carsten , Keßler Mathias
Published: June 2017

Die Oxidation elementaren Schwefels in supersauren Lösungen und Schmelzen ist eines der ältesten Themen der Hauptgruppenelementchemie. Dennoch konnten bisher lediglich drei homopolyatomare Schwefelkationen ([S4]2+, [S8]2+ und [S19]2+) kristallographisch charakterisiert werden, und das, obwohl EPR‐Untersuchungen Belege für die Existenz mindestens zweier weiterer homopolyatomarer Schwefelradikalkationen in Lösung lieferten. Hier wird erstmals die Struktur des homopolyatomaren Schwefelradikalkations [S8].+ im Kristall vorgestellt. Das Radikalkation [S8].+ repräsentiert die erste Oxidationsstufe des in elementarem Schwefel vorliegenden S8‐Moleküls. Die Struktur ähnelt der des bekannten [S8]2+‐Kations, wobei der transannulare Schwefel⋅⋅⋅Schwefel‐Abstand signifikant größer ist. Quantenchemische Rechnungen helfen für das Verständnis der Struktur und zeigen, dass es sich bei diesem Radikalkation um eine stabile Verbindung in Lösung handelt. Die Existenz des [S8].+‐Radikalkations ist in Übereinstimmung mit EPR‐Literaturdaten.
Effect of surface modification of silicon carbide nanoparticles on the properties of nanocomposites based on epoxidized natural rubber/natural rubber blends
Authors: Utara Songkot , Jantachum Punyarat , Sukkaneewat Benjatham
Published: June 2017

Improvement of the properties of rubber nanocomposites is a challenge for the rubber industry because of the need for higher performance materials. Addition of a nanometer‐sized filler such as silicon carbide (SiC) to enhance the mechanical properties of rubber nanocomposites has rarely been attempted. The main problem associated with using SiC nanoparticles as a reinforcing natural rubber (NR) filler compound is poor dispersion of SiC in the NR matrix because of their incompatibility. To solve this problem, rubber nanocomposites were prepared with SiC that had undergone surface modification with azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) and used as a filler in blends of epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) and natural rubber. The effect of surface modification and ENR content on the curing characteristics, dynamic mechanical properties, morphology and heat buildup of the blends were investigated. The results showed that modification of SiC with AIBN resulted in successful bonding to the surface of SiC. It was found that modified SiC nanoparticles were well dispersed in the ENR/NR matrix, leading to good filler‐rubber interaction and improved compatibility between the rubber and filler in comparison with unmodified SiC. The mechanical properties and heat buildup when modified SiC was used as filled in ENR/NR blends were improved. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45289.
Synthesis of novel pyridinium N‐chloramine precursors and its antimicrobial application on cotton fabrics
Authors: Li Lingdong , Chi Xiaofang , Gai Fangyuan , Zhou Hao , Zhang Fengxiang , Zhao (Kent) Zongbao
Published: June 2017

To control pathogenic microbial contamination on polymeric material surface, it is pivotal to develop materials with efficacious antimicrobial activity. Two pyridinium N‐chloramine precursors containing a siloxane handle were synthesized, characterized, and grafted onto cotton fabrics. The attenuated total reflectance spectra and scanning electron microscope photo analysis indicated that the cotton fabric surface was successfully modified. The resultant chlorinated fabric samples were challenged against bacteria Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Results showed that: (1) the surface modified cotton fabrics displayed satisfactory biocidal efficacy; (2) the precursor structure played a major role on surface grafting and antibacterial activity. This work provides two promising pyridinium N‐chloramine precursors which hold potential application for preparing antibacterial textile materials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45323.
Mitochondrial heterogeneity, metabolic scaling and cell death
Authors: Aryaman Juvid , Hoitzing Hanne , Burgstaller Joerg P. , Johnston Iain G. , Jones Nick S.
Published: June 2017

Heterogeneity in mitochondrial content has been previously suggested as a major contributor to cellular noise, with multiple studies indicating its direct involvement in biomedically important cellular phenomena. A recently published dataset explored the connection between mitochondrial functionality and cell physiology, where a non‐linearity between mitochondrial functionality and cell size was found. Using mathematical models, we suggest that a combination of metabolic scaling and a simple model of cell death may account for these observations. However, our findings also suggest the existence of alternative competing hypotheses, such as a non‐linearity between cell death and cell size. While we find that the proposed non‐linear coupling between mitochondrial functionality and cell size provides a compelling alternative to previous attempts to link mitochondrial heterogeneity and cell physiology, we emphasise the need to account for alternative causal variables, including cell cycle, size, mitochondrial density and death, in future studies of mitochondrial physiology.
Precise Control of the Lateral and Vertical Growth of Two‐Dimensional Ag Nanoplates
Authors: Tan Taixing , Yao Lili , Liu Huiling , Li Chengyu , Wang Cheng
Published: June 2017

Tuning localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) is crucial for practical applications of two‐dimensional Ag nanoplates (AgNPs) and relies on the precise control of their lateral length or/and thickness. In the present seed‐mediated synthetic method, by taking advantage of underpotential deposition (UPD) of Cu on the (111) surfaces of AgNPs, a solely lateral growth of AgNPs was achieved when Cu(NO3)2 was employed, while a vertical growth of AgNPs could be attained by introducing CuCl2 into our growth solutions. The lateral length and the vertical thickness of the AgNPs could be tuned in the ranges of 115 to nearly 300 nm and 13.4 to around 200 nm, respectively. Along with control of the dimensional size of AgNPs, LSPR could also be tuned in the visible to near infrared range. Plausible growth mechanisms for the precise control of the lateral and vertical growth of AgNPs were proposed.
Tetrathiafulvalene–Polychlorotriphenylmethyl Dyads: Influence of Bridge and Open‐Shell Characteristics on Linear and Nonlinear Optical Properties
Authors: Souto Manuel , Calbo Joaquín , Ratera Imma , Ortí Enrique , Veciana Jaume
Published: June 2017

Three conjugated donor‐π‐acceptor radical systems (1 a–1 c) were prepared by bridging a tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) electron‐donor unit to a polychlorotriphenylmethyl (PTM) electron‐acceptor radical through vinylene units of different lengths. The dependence of the intramolecular charge transfer on the length of the conjugated bridge has been analyzed by different electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques. Linear optical properties and the second‐order nonlinear optical (NLO) response of these derivatives have been computed by comparing systems 1 a–1 c with the non‐radical analogues (2 a–2 c). Interestingly, an enhanced NLO response is predicted for dyads 1 a–1 c with PTM in the radical form and for compounds with longer vinylene bridges. Calculations confirm the active role the bridge plays for electronic communication between the donor TTF and the acceptor PTM units.
Cytologic perspectives on neoteric B‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Sturgis Charles D. , Monaco Sara E. , Sakr Hany , Pantanowitz Liron
Published: June 2017

The 2008 World Health Organization (WHO) classification of hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues has been recently revised, and publication of the updated 2016 version is expected soon. Given that cytopathologists are often involved in the diagnosis of primary, recurrent, and transformed lymphoproliferative disorders, knowledge of updates to the WHO lymphoma classification, including terminology, pathogenesis, ancillary techniques, and targeted therapies is necessary. Herein, we reference the last decade of cytology specific literature for seven newer B‐cell disorders and provide illustrative examples of each entity from our files.
Carbon dioxide injection in carbonate reservoirs – a review of CO2‐water‐rock interaction studies
Authors: Siqueira Tiago A. , Iglesias Rodrigo S. , Ketzer J. Marcelo
Published: June 2017

Carbon dioxide injection in geological formations is currently a common procedure in several reservoirs worldwide. More recently, it has been considered a permanent storage solution, avoiding emission to the atmosphere from large industrial sources. Also, it is largely employed in the oil & gas exploration industry, for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) operations. However, it is a known fact that injection of large amounts of CO2 into geological reservoirs may lead to a series of alterations due to chemical and physical interactions with minerals and fluids, especially in carbonate or carbonate‐rich reservoirs. Experimental and numerical models have been employed in many studies in the past, to investigate these effects on the geological environment. So far, most of these studies focused on siliciclastic formations, whereas carbonate reservoirs, which are known to be much more chemically reactive when interacting with CO2, were much less investigated. We present a review of experimental and numerical models that have been employed for studying CO2‐water‐rock interactions, and their application to the investigation of the impact in carbonate reservoir quality and integrity caused by the injection of carbon dioxide. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Application of CRISPR/Cas Technology to Efficiently Model Complex Cancer Genomes in Stem Cells
Authors: Albitar Adam , Rohani Bahar , Will Brett , Yan Annie , Gallicano G. Ian
Published: June 2017

CRISPR/Cas gene editing technologies have emerged as powerful tools in the study of oncogenic transformation. The system's specificity, versatility, and ease of implementation allow researchers to identify important molecular markers and pathways which grant cancers stem cell like properties. This technology has already been applied to researching specific cancers, but has seen restricted therapeutic applications due to inherent ethical and technical limitations. Active development and adaptation of the CRISPR/Cas system has produced new methods to take advantage of both non‐homologous end joining and homologous recombination repair mechanisms in attempts to remedy these limitations and improve the versatility of gene edits that can be created. Nonetheless, until issues with specificity and in vivo efficiency are resolved, utilization of CRISPR/Cas systems would be best employed in the modeling and study of various cancer genes. While it may have potential therapeutic applications to targeted cancer therapies in the future, presently CRISPR/Cas is a remarkable technique that can be utilized for easy and efficient gene editing when it comes to cancer research. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 134–140, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Serum anti‐phenolic glycolipid—1 IgA correlates to IgM isotype in leprosy patients: a possible candidate for seroepidemiological surveys?
Authors: de Macedo Alexandre C. , Guimarães Juliana A. , Rodrigues Raphael O. , Araújo Thiago D. V. , Tavares Clodis M. , Cabral Paula B. , de Moraes‐Pinto Maria Isabel , Nagao‐Dias Aparecida T.
Published: June 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare serum anti‐phenolic glycolipid‐1 IgA, IgG, and IgM levels in leprosy patients and controls.

Method

Analysis of anti‐PGL‐1 IgA, IgG, or IgM in serum samples from multibacillary (MB, n=32) and paucibacillary (PB, n=22) leprosy patients, and in non‐endemic controls (n=17), using an indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

A strong correlation between serum IgM and IgA isotypes was found (r=.745, P<.0001) in MB patients. A moderate correlation was found in all analyses in PB patients. A moderate agreement was found between anti‐PGL1 IgA and IgM tests. Based on the ROC curves, the cut‐off values were selected and the parameters of validation were calculated. Considering the clinical forms altogether, the diagnostic sensitivities were 50.0% for IgA, 22.2% for IgG, and 74.1% for IgM. The positive (VPP) and negative (VPN) predictive values were estimated for each isotype. For IgA, the VPP and VPN were, respectively, 100.0% (87.0%‐100.0%; 95% confidence interval) and 38.7% (24.4%‐54.5%); for IgG, 100% (87.0%‐100.0%) and 28.8% (17.8%‐42.1%), respectively; and for IgM, 95.2% (83.8%‐99.4%) and 51.7% (32.5%‐70.6%), respectively.

Conclusion

Despite the limiting factors, anti‐PGL1 IgA correlates to IgM levels and it could be considered as a possible laboratorial tool to be also used, for instance, in serological follow‐up studies.
Completion of the mixed unit interval graphs hierarchy
Authors: Talon Alexandre , Kratochvíl Jan
Published: June 2017

We describe the missing class of the hierarchy of mixed unit interval graphs. This class is generated by the intersection graphs of families of unit intervals that are allowed to be closed, open, and left‐closed‐right‐open. (By symmetry, considering closed, open, and right‐closed‐left‐open unit intervals generates the same class.) We show that this class lies strictly between unit interval graphs and mixed unit interval graphs. We give a complete characterization of this new class, as well as quadratic‐time algorithms that recognize graphs from this class and produce a corresponding interval representation if one exists. We also show that the algorithm from Shuchat et al. [8] directly extends to provide a quadratic‐time algorithm to recognize the class of mixed unit interval graphs.
Attachment theory at work: A review and directions for future research
Authors: Yip Jeffrey , Ehrhardt Kyle , Black Hunter , Walker Dayna O.
Published: June 2017

The influence of attachment theory on organizational scholarship is growing, with more articles published on the subject in the past 5 years than the preceding 25 years combined. Prior research and reviews have primarily focused on attachment styles and their relationship with organizational outcomes. However, in the past 5 years, organizational scholars have begun exploring new directions in attachment research such as situational influences on attachment states, attachment as a moderating variable, and attachment as a dynamic process in various forms of work relationships. These advances offer new directions for organizational behavior research, notably through the lens of the attachment behavioral system—an innate psychological system that accounts for why and how people seek support from others. In this paper, we provide an overarching framework for understanding attachment dynamics in organizations and review key findings from attachment theory research on dyadic relationships, group dynamics, and the employee–organization relationship. We further discuss promising areas for future organizational research on attachment, as well as methodological developments in the priming of attachment states.
Optimization of puncture injury to rat caudal disc for mimicking early degeneration of intervertebral disc
Authors: Hu Ming‐Hsiao , Yang Kai‐Chiang , Chen Yeong‐Jang , Sun Yuan‐Hui , Lin Feng‐Huei , Yang Shu‐Hua
Published: June 2017

The caudal discs of rats have been proposed as a puncture model in which intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration can be induced and novel therapies can be tested. For biological repair, treatments for ongoing IVD degeneration are ideally administered during the earlier stages. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the optimal puncture needle size for creating a model that mimicked the earlier stages of IVD degeneration. According to the disc height index, histologic score, and MRI grading, a puncture needle sized 21G or larger induced rapid degenerative processes in rat caudal discs during the initial 2–4 weeks. The degenerative changes were severe and continued deteriorating after 4 weeks. Conversely, puncture injury induced by needles sized 25G or smaller also produced degenerative changes in rat caudal discs during initial 2–4 weeks; however, the changes were less severe. Furthermore, the degenerative process became stabilized and showed no further deterioration or spontaneous recovery after 4 weeks. In the discs punctured by 25G needles, the expression of collagen I was increased at 2–4 weeks with a gradually fibrotic transformation thereafter. The expressions of collagen II and SOX9 were enhanced initially but returned to pre‐injury levels at 4–8 weeks. The above‐mentioned findings were more compatible with earlier degeneration in discs punctured by needles sized 25G or smaller than by needles sized 21G or larger, and the appropriate timing for intradiscal administration of proposed therapeutic agents would be 4 weeks or longer after puncture. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:202–211, 2018.
Maintaining good miRNAs in the body keeps the doctor away?: Perspectives on the relationship between food‐derived natural products and microRNAs in relation to exosomes/extracellular vesicles
Authors: Otsuka Kurataka , Yamamoto Yusuke , Matsuoka Ryosuke , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: June 2017

During the last decade, it has been uncovered that microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non‐coding RNAs, are related to many diseases including cancers. With an increase in reports describing the dysregulation of miRNAs in various tumor types, it has become abundantly clear that miRNAs play significant roles in the formation and progression of cancers. Intriguingly, miRNAs are present in body fluids because they are packed in exosomes/extracellular vesicles and released from all types of cells. The miRNAs in the fluids are measured in a relatively simple way and the profile of miRNAs is likely to be an indicator of health condition. In recent years, various studies have demonstrated that some naturally occurring compounds can control tumor‐suppressive and oncogenic miRNAs in a positive manner, suggesting that food‐derived compounds could maintain the expression levels of miRNAs and help maintain good health. Therefore, our daily food and compounds in food are of great interest. In addition, exogenous diet‐derived miRNAs have been indicated to function in the regulation of target mammalian transcripts in the body. These findings highlight the possibility of diet for good health through the regulation of miRNAs, and we also discuss the perspective of food application and health promotion.
Predictive therapeutic planning for irreversible electroporation treatment of spontaneous malignant glioma
Authors: Garcia Paulo A. , Kos Bor , Rossmeisl John H. , Pavliha Denis , Miklavčič Damijan , Davalos Rafael V.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) has been developed as a promising minimally invasive treatment to ablate spontaneous brain tumors with pulsed electric fields in canine patients. The purpose of the study is to determine the Peleg‐Fermi parameters needed to incorporate pulse number and pulse duration into the therapeutic planning of IRE.

Methods

Seven canine patients were treated with IRE for spontaneous malignant glioma with MRI‐based treatment planning. The treatment planning method consists of building patient‐specific finite element models and using them to compute electric fields used in the IRE treatment. We evaluate the predictive power of tumor coverage with electric field alone vs. cell kill probability using radiographically confirmed clinical outcomes.

Results

Results of post‐treatment diagnostic imaging, tumor biopsies, and neurological examinations indicated successful tumor ablation without significant direct neurotoxicity in six of the seven dogs. Objective tumor responses were seen in four (80%) of five dogs with quantifiable target lesions according to RANO criteria. Two dogs experienced survivals in excess of 1 yr, including one dog that resulted in complete response to IRE treatment for 5+ years to date. Tumor fraction exposed to electric field over 600 V/cm was between 0.08 and 0.73, while tumor fraction exposed to electric field over 300 V/cm was between 0.17 and 0.95. Probability of cell kill of ≥ 90% was found in tumor volume fractions between 0.21 and 0.99.

Conclusions

We conclude that IRE is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment for malignant glioma and can be predicted with the Peleg‐Fermi cell kill probability function. A tumor coverage of ≥ 0.9 at a cell kill probability ≥ 90% can be used to guide IRE treatments of spontaneous malignant glioma based on the radiographically confirmed clinical outcomes achieved.
Assembly and performance of a 6.4 T cryogen‐free dynamic nuclear polarization system
Authors: Kiswandhi Andhika , Niedbalski Peter , Parish Christopher , Wang Qing , Lumata Lloyd
Published: June 2017

We report on the assembly and performance evaluation of a 180‐GHz/6.4 T dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) system based on a cryogen‐free superconducting magnet. The DNP system utilizes a variable‐field superconducting magnet that can be ramped up to 9 T and equipped with cryocoolers that can cool the sample space with the DNP assembly down to 1.8 K via the Joule–Thomson effect. A homebuilt DNP probe insert with top‐tuned nuclear magnetic resonance coil and microwave port was incorporated into the sample space in which the effective sample temperature is approximately 1.9 K when a 180‐GHz microwave source is on during DNP operation. 13C DNP of [1‐13C] acetate samples doped with trityl OX063 and 4‐oxo‐TEMPO in this system have resulted in solid‐state 13C polarization levels of 58 ± 3% and 18 ± 2%, respectively. The relatively high 13C polarization levels achieved in this work have demonstrated that the use of a cryogen‐free superconducting magnet for 13C DNP is feasible and in fact, relatively efficient—a major leap to offset the high cost of liquid helium consumption in DNP experiments.
Respiratory motion model based on the noise covariance matrix of a receive array
Authors: Andreychenko A. , Denis de Senneville B. , Navest R.J.M. , Tijssen R.H.N. , Lagendijk J.J.W. , van den Berg C.A.T.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

Tracking of the internal anatomy by means of a motion model that uses the MR‐derived motion fields and noise covariance matrix (NCM) dynamic as a surrogate signal.

Methods

A 2D respiratory motion model was developed based on the MR‐derived motion fields and the NCM of a receive array used in MRI. Temporal dynamics of the NCM were used as a motion surrogate for a linear correspondence motion model. The model performance was tested on five healthy volunteers with a liver as the target. The motion fields were calculated from the cineMR frames with an optical flow registration tool.

Results

The model estimated the liver motion with an average residual error of 2.3 mm (13% of the motion amplitude). The model formation takes 3 min and the model latency was 0.5 s in the current implementation. The limiting factor for the latency is the current update time of the NCM (0.48 s), which in principle can be reduced to 0.004 s with an alternative way to determine the NCM.

Conclusions

The 2D respiratory motion of the liver can be effectively estimated with the linear motion model that uses the temporal behavior of the NCM as motion surrogate. Magn Reson Med 79:1730–1735, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Increased Adipocyte Size, Macrophage Infiltration, and Adverse Local Adipokine Profile in Perirenal Fat in Cushing's Syndrome
Authors: Roerink Sean H.P.P. , Wagenmakers Margreet A.E.M. , Langenhuijsen Johan F. , Ballak Dov B. , Rooijackers Hanne M.M. , d'Ancona Frank C. , van Dielen François M. , Smit Jan W.A. , Plantinga Theo S. , Netea‐Maier Romana T. , Hermus Ad R.M.M.
Published: June 2017

Objective

To analyze changes in fat cell size, macrophage infiltration, and local adipose tissue adipokine profiles in different fat depots in patients with active Cushing's syndrome.

Methods

Subcutaneous (SC) and perirenal (PR) adipose tissue of 10 patients with Cushing's syndrome was compared to adipose tissue of 10 gender‐, age‐, and BMI‐matched controls with regard to adipocyte size determined by digital image analysis on hematoxylin and eosin stainings, macrophage infiltration determined by digital image analysis on CD68 stainings, and adipose tissue leptin and adiponectin levels using fluorescent bead immunoassays and ELISA techniques.

Results

Compared to the controls, mean adipocyte size was larger in PR adipose tissue in patients. The percentage of macrophage infiltration of the PR adipose tissue and PR adipose tissue lysate leptin levels were higher and adiponectin levels were lower in SC and PR adipose tissue lysates in patients. The adiponectin levels were also lower in the SC adipose tissue supernatants of patients. Associations were found between the severity of hypercortisolism and PR adipocyte size.

Conclusions

Cushing's syndrome is associated with hypertrophy of PR adipocytes and a higher percentage of macrophage infiltration in PR adipose tissue. These changes are associated with an adverse local adipokine profile.
From charge‐transfer excitations to charge‐transport phenomena in organic molecular crystals
Authors: Zoppi Laura , Baldridge Kim K.
Published: June 2017

Functional devices based on properties inherent in single organic molecules offer promise for use in technological applications, particularly building blocks that can take on diverse electronic functions with tuning through chemical design and synthesis. Morphological features of curved aromatic structures offer exploration into a wealth of phenomenology as a function of environment, such as exemplified for super atomic molecular orbitals. This review discusses current state‐of‐the‐art electronic structure approaches for prediction of structural, electronic, optical, and transport properties of planar and curved designed components. Important principle for design lies in understanding and control of the solid‐state packing and intermolecular interactions of individual building block units, for which many body perturbation techniques are essential. Molecular and solid state engineering is shown to be effective toward tailoring new materials with optimal transport properties, with valuable insight provided by high level computational prediction.
A statistical approach to combining multisource information in one‐class classifiers
Authors: Simonson Katherine M. , Derek West R. , Hansen Ross L. , LaBruyere Thomas E. , Van Benthem Mark H.
Published: June 2017

A new method is introduced for combining information from multiple sources to support one‐class classification. The contributing sources may represent measurements taken by different sensors of the same physical entity, repeated measurements by a single sensor, or numerous features computed from a single measured image or signal. The approach utilizes the theory of statistical hypothesis testing, and applies Fisher's technique for combining p‐values, modified to handle nonindependent sources. Classifier outputs take the form of fused p‐values, which may be used to gauge the consistency of unknown entities with one or more class hypotheses. The approach enables rigorous assessment of classification uncertainties, and allows for traceability of classifier decisions back to the constituent sources, both of which are important for high‐consequence decision support. Application of the technique is illustrated in two challenge problems, one for skin segmentation and the other for terrain labeling. The method is seen to be particularly effective for relatively small training samples.