bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parental perceptions of neighborhood environments, BMI, and active behaviors in girls aged 7–9 years
Authors: Machado‐Rodrigues Aristides M. , Santana Ana , Gama Augusta , Mourão Isabel , Nogueira Helena , Rosado Victor , Padez Cristina
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Habitual physical activity (PA) may be influenced by a broad range of neighborhood, school, community, and family factors. Young people, particularly girls, tend to show lower habitual PA than boys and should be a target for prevention strategies aimed at healthy lifestyles. The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) to determine which perceived attributes about neighborhoods are related to active behaviors; (2) to analyze which perceived attributes about neighborhoods are related to body mass index (BMI) of children.

Methods

The sample was comprised of 1,886 girls aged 7–9 years. Height and weight were measured, and BMI was calculated subsequently. Participants were classified as normal weight or overweight/obese (Cole et al. [2000]: BMJ 320: 1240‐1243). Environmental variables and physical activities were assessed by questionnaire filled out by their parents—the Environmental Module of the International Physical Activity Prevalence Study (IPS, 2002) was used. Multiple linear regressions, with adjustments for confounding variables, were used.

Results

Data revealed that neighborhoods with recreational facilities and infrastructure for walking and cycling were predictors of active behaviors; neighborhood safety was an additional related factor of habitual PA. On the other hand, neighbors with better access to destinations and with interesting things to look at while walking were significantly associated with lower BMI in Portuguese children.

Conclusion

The study found some significant relationships between parental perceptions of the environment and BMI and habitual PA of Portuguese girls, especially related to security for walking and unpleasant neighborhoods, and access to destinations. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 26:670–675, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effects on mechanical properties and crystallization of poly (l‐lactic acid) reinforced by cellulosic fibers with different scales
Authors: Lu Tingju , Jiang Man , Xu Xiaoling , Zhang Shengli , Hui David , Gou Jihua , Zhou Zuowan
Published: June 2014

Bacterial cellulose (BC), microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), and bamboo cellulosic fibers (BCFs) were used to reinforce poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) based bio‐composites. The mechanical properties and crystallization of the composites were studied through mechanical testing, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and polarizing microscope. The incorporation of all three kinds of cellulose increased the stiffness of the composites compared to pure PLLA. The reinforcing effect of the MCC in the composites is most significant. The Young's modulus and impact toughness of the MCC/PLLA composites were increased by 44.4% and 58.8%, respectively. The tensile strength of the MCC/PLLA composites was increased to 71 MPa from 61 MPa of PLLA. However, the tensile strength of the composites reinforced with BCF or BC was lower than PLLA. The three kinds of cellulosic fibers improved the crystallization of PLLA. The BC with smallest size provided the composites with smallest grain and highest crystallinity. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41077.
A competitive chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay method for β‐defensin‐2 detection in transgenic mice
Authors: Yang Xi , Zhou Tao , Yu Lei , Tan Wenwen , Zhou Rui , Hu Yonggang
Published: June 2014

A competitive chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) method for porcine β‐defensin‐2 (pBD‐2) detection in transgenic mice was established. Several factors that affect detection, including luminol, p‐iodophenol and hydrogen peroxide concentrations, as well as pH, were studied and optimized. The linear range of the proposed method for pBD‐2 detection under optimal conditions was 0.05–80 ng/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9960. Eleven detections of a 30 ng/mL pBD‐2 standard sample were performed. Reproducible results were obtained with a relative standard deviation of 3.94%. The limit of detection of the method for pBD‐2 was 3.5 pg/mL (3σ). The proposed method was applied to determine pBD‐2 expression levels in the tissues of pBD‐2 transgenic mice, and compared with LC‐MS/MS and quantitative real‐time reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. This suggests that the CLEIA can be used as a valuable method to detect and quantify pBD‐2. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of an LC‐MS/MS method for determination of bicalutamide on dried blood spots: application to pharmacokinetic study in mice
Authors: P. S. Suresh , Vijay Kumar S. , Kumar Avinash , Mullangi Ramesh
Published: June 2014

A rapid and highly sensitive assay method has been developed and validated for the estimation of bicalutamide (BCL) on mouse dried blood spots (DBS) using liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization in the negative‐ion mode. The assay procedure involves a simple liquid extraction of BCL and tolbutamide (internal standard, IS) from mouse blood DBS cards using tert‐butyl methyl ether. Chromatographic separation was achieved with 5 mm ammonium acetate (pH 6.5)–acetonitrile (35:65, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.60 mL/min on an Atlantis dC18 column with a total run time 3.0 min. The MS/MS ion transitions monitored were 428.80 → 254.70 for BCL and 269.00 → 169.60 for IS. Method validation was performed as per regulatory guidelines. A linear response function was observed from 0.92 to 1911 ng/mL for BCL in mouse blood. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions were in the ranges of 1.86–12.5 and 3.19–10.8%, respectively. This novel DBS method has been applied to a pharmacokinetic study in mice. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
President's page
Authors: Bruce Harry
Published: June 2014

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

As Association president, Harry Bruce attended a meeting of the Council of Scientific Society Presidents (CSSP) where, despite varied focus areas, the shared goals and challenges of participating research organizations became evident. These association leaders are concerned about member satisfaction and engagement and making the most of online technologies for member support. ASIS&T's name change to reflect its international membership caught the attention of many. ASIS&T continues service to the membership by gathering data on member attitudes to better understand the perceived value of membership. To promote engagement and conversation the Association is also pursuing a social media initiative and website overhaul. The CSSP meeting was a reminder of the central role of information science linking scientific disciplines and the support of the professional societies. In closing, Bruce notes the passing of Professor Eliza Dresang, colleague, scholar and professor at the University of Washington iSchool.
Indigenous knowledge in a post‐apology era: Steps toward healing and bridge building
Authors: Ghaddar Jamila , Caidi Nadia
Published: June 2014

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

An important aspect of ASIS&T's international outreach is service to indigenous populations, a need that has received greater recognition since Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's public apology in 2008 for past disruption of Native families. The emerging field of indigenous librarianship can contribute significantly to the process of reconciliation in Canada and other countries with similar colonial legacies. Indigenous librarianship requires reconsidering the organization, classification and representation of library materials from a perspective free of culture‐ and language‐based assumptions. Key themes in indigenous librarianship include removing barriers to access, providing culturally relevant materials and services and departing from widely used knowledge organization systems such as the Dewey Decimal System to create classifications that reflect the Native worldview and epistemology. Successful examples include Australia's Pathways thesaurus project, the Māori Subject Headings from Aotearoa/New Zealand and the British Columbia First Nations Names Authority. Increased involvement by Indigenous people in information studies will enhance accurate representation of their cultures.
PET/CT imaging in cancer: Current applications and future directions
Authors: Farwell Michael D. , Pryma Daniel A. , Mankoff David A.
Published: June 2014

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a radiotracer imaging method that yields quantitative images of regional in vivo biology and biochemistry. PET, now used in conjunction with computed tomography (CT) in PET/CT devices, has had its greatest impact to date on cancer and is now an important part of oncologic clinical practice and translational cancer research. In this review of current applications and future directions for PET/CT in cancer, the authors first highlight the basic principles of PET followed by a discussion of the biochemistry and current clinical applications of the most commonly used PET imaging agent, 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG). Then, emerging methods for PET imaging of other biologic processes relevant to cancer are reviewed, including cellular proliferation, tumor hypoxia, apoptosis, amino acid and cell membrane metabolism, and imaging of tumor receptors and other tumor‐specific gene products. The focus of the review is on methods in current clinical practice as well as those that have been translated to patients and are currently in clinical trials. Cancer 2014;120:3433–3445. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Interferon‐γ–induced inflammatory markers and the risk of cancer: The Hordaland Health Study
Authors: Zuo Hui , Tell Grethe S. , Vollset Stein E. , Ueland Per M. , Nygård Ottar , Midttun Øivind , Meyer Klaus , Ulvik Arve , Eussen Simone J.P.M.
Published: June 2014

Background

It has been reported that interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ)–induced inflammatory markers, such as circulating neopterin and kynurenine‐to‐tryptophan ratio (KTR), are increased in patients with cancer and are also a predictor of poor prognosis. However, whether baseline levels of these makers are associated with subsequent cancer risk in the general population remains unknown.

Methods

We conducted a prospective analysis of the Hordaland Health Study in 6594 adults without known cancer at baseline who were enrolled between April 1998 and June 1999. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models adjusted for sex, age, body mass index, smoking status, and renal function.

Results

A total of 971 incident cancer cases (507 men and 464 women) were identified over a median follow‐up time of 12 years. Baseline plasma neopterin, KTR and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were significantly associated with an increased risk of overall cancer in models adjusted for covariates (P for trend across quartiles = .006 for neopterin, .022 for KTR, and .005 for CRP). The multivariate‐adjusted HR (95% CI) per SD increment in similar models were 1.09 (1.03‐1.16) for neopterin, 1.07 (1.01‐1.14) for KTR, and 1.04 (0.98‐1.10) for CRP. The associations between the inflammatory markers and risk of major specific cancer types were also provided.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that plasma neopterin, KTR, and CRP are associated with a significantly increased risk of overall cancer. Our study revealed novel evidence regarding the role of IFN‐γ–induced inflammation in human carcinogenesis. Cancer 2014;120:3370–3377. © 2014 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society.
Impact of touch preparations on core needle biopsies
Authors: Tong Leung Chu B. , Rudomina Dorota , Rekhtman Natasha , Lin Oscar
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

Touch preparations (TPs) can be performed for on‐site adequacy assessment of core needle biopsies (CNBs). Although TPs can play a role in decreasing the number of nondiagnostic core biopsies, the impact of TPs on CNB has not been extensively evaluated.

METHODS

Computerized tomography–guided CNBs performed in a tertiary cancer center were retrospectively identified. On‐site adequacy assessment was performed in all cases. The matching TPs and CNBs were evaluated for diagnostic accuracy of the TP. The relation between the site of biopsy and the cellularity of the CNB was also analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 1100 CNB cases with associated TPs were identified over a 6‐month period. Eighty‐four cases (8%) showed marked differences in cellularity between CNB and TP, and 43 of these 84 cases (4.3%) showed the presence of diagnostic cells in either CNB or TP, but not in both. Lung was the biopsy site where CNB was most affected by loss of diagnostic cells.

CONCLUSIONS

TP and CNB findings must be integrated to prevent a misdiagnosis. Lung CNBs were more frequently affected by performing TPs. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2014;122:851–854. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Blind carrier frequency offset mitigation in space–time block‐coded multicarrier code division multiple access uplink transmission
Authors: Chen Tung‐Chou , Lin Tsui‐Tsai
Published: June 2014

In this paper, a novel blind carrier frequency offset (CFO) estimation is proposed on the basis of the linearly constrained optimization for the uplink transmission of space–time block‐coded multicarrier code division multiple access systems. First, the full‐dimensional spatial‐and‐temporal data are formed to avoid violation of the second‐order statistics in the conventional receiver design. A set of weight vectors is then provided for acquiring each multipath signal from the desired user while the others get rejected. Finally, the estimated CFO is obtained in accordance with maximizing the well‐defined measurement function, which is formulated by collecting all the output powers of the receiver. A space–time averaging technique is also proposed to enhance the robustness to the finite sample effect. Simulation study confirms that with the proposed CFO estimator used in the preceding, the receiver can successfully achieve the same performance of the optimal receiver working in the absence of CFO. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Signal Processing in Power State Variables for Noise Cancellation of Electromagnetic Environment
Authors: Ikuta Akira , Ogawa Hitoshi , Orimoto Hisako
Published: June 2014

The specific signal in an actual electromagnetic wave frequently shows some very complex fluctuation forms of non‐Gaussian type owing to natural, social, and human factors. Furthermore, the observed data are inevitably contaminated by the background noise of arbitrary distribution type. In these situations, it is often desirable to estimate several evaluation quantities such as the peak value, the amplitude probability distribution, the average crossing rate, the pulse spacing, duration distributions, and so on of the specific signal. Without losing their mutual relationships, it is indispensable to estimate the probability distribution or the original wave fluctuation form of itself of the specific signal based on the observed noise data. In this study, static and dynamic signal processing methods for estimating a specific signal with the existence of background noise of non‐Gaussian distribution forms are proposed. More specifically, by paying attention to the power state variable for a specific signal in the electromagnetic environment, which exhibits complex probability distribution forms, a new type of signal processing method for noise cancellation is proposed. In the case of considering the power state variable, a physical mechanism of contamination by a background noise can be reflected in the noise cancellation method by using an additive property between the specific signal and background noise. The proposed method positively utilizes the additive property of power state variable in the derivation process of the noise cancellation method. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the proposed theoretical method is experimentally confirmed by applying it to an estimation problem in actual electromagnetic environment.
Exacerbated experimental arthritis in Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein deficiency: Modulatory role of regulatory B cells
Authors: Bouma Gerben , Carter Natalie A. , Recher Mike , Malinova Dessislava , Adriani Marsilio , Notarangelo Luigi D. , Burns Siobhan O. , Mauri Claudia , Thrasher Adrian J.
Published: June 2014

Patients deficient in the cytoskeletal regulator Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp) are predisposed to varied autoimmunity, suggesting it has an important controlling role in participating cells. IL‐10‐producing regulatory B (Breg) cells are emerging as important mediators of immunosuppressive activity. In experimental, antigen‐induced arthritis WASp‐deficient (WASp knockout [WAS KO]) mice developed exacerbated disease associated with decreased Breg cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells, but increased Th17 cells in knee‐draining LNs. Arthritic WAS KO mice showed increased serum levels of B‐cell‐activating factor, while their B cells were unresponsive in terms of B‐cell‐activating factor induced survival and IL‐10 production. Adoptive transfer of WT Breg cells ameliorated arthritis in WAS KO recipients and restored a normal balance of Treg and Th17 cells. Mice with B‐cell‐restricted WASp deficiency, however, did not develop exacerbated arthritis, despite exhibiting reduced Breg‐ and Treg‐cell numbers during active disease, and Th17 cells were not increased over equivalent WT levels. These findings support a contributory role for defective Breg cells in the development of WAS‐related autoimmunity, but demonstrate that functional competence in other regulatory populations can be compensatory. A properly regulated cytoskeleton is therefore important for normal Breg‐cell activity and complementation of defects in this lineage is likely to have important therapeutic benefits.
Fatty acid methyl esters production with glycerol metal alkoxide catalyst
Authors: Pradhan Subhalaxmi , Shen Jianheng , Emami Shahram , Naik Satyanarayan N. , Reaney Martin J. T.
Published: June 2014

Metal hydroxides and alkoxides are popular base catalysts for production of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME). Hydroxides dissolved in alcohols produce water. Some of that water reacts with triacylglycerols (TAGs) to produce free fatty acids instead of desired FAME, thus decreasing the yield of the transesterification reaction. Metal alkoxides are expensive, their production is hazardous and energy intensive, therefore, less expensive safer and more efficient catalysts for transesterification are desirable. Glycerol derived non‐toxic alkoxide base catalysts were synthesized by heating KOH solution (50 wt%) and glycerol at three different mole ratios (KOH: glycerol, denoted KGly, at 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1) under four different vacuum pressures. Transesterification reactions were conducted. The reaction rate and yield of FAME synthesis from TAG achieved by catalyst prepared at 3:1 mole ratio of KOH: glycerol achieved superior or similar FAME yield to conventional potassium methoxide catalyst under same reaction conditions. At 120 s after adding catalyst, the reactions achieved satisfactory yield (74.3–78.9%) which was similar to that of KOCH3 catalyst (77.9%). The reactivity of catalyst at initial stage of the reaction was in the following order: KGly (1:1) < KGly (2:1) < KOCH3 < KGly (3:1).

Glycerol derived non‐toxic alkoxide base catalysts were synthesized by heating KOH solution (50 wt%) and glycerol at three different mole ratios (KOH: glycerol, 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1) under four different vacuum pressures. The catalysts were used for transesterification reaction and the catalyst prepared at 3:1 mole ratio achieved superior or similar FAME yield to conventional potassium methoxide catalyst.
Twenty years of development of dual and multi‐selector models in capillary electrophoresis: A review
Authors: Müllerová Ludmila , Dubský Pavel , Gaš Bohuslav
Published: June 2014

It has been 20 years since Lurie et al. first published their model of electromigration of an analyte under simultaneous interaction with two cyclodextrins as chiral selectors. Since then, the theory of (enantio)separation in dual and complex mixtures of (chiral) selectors is well understood. In spite of this, a trial‐and‐error approach still prevails in analytical practice. Such a situation is likely caused by the fact that the entire theory is spread over numerous papers and the relations between various models are not always clear. The present review condenses the theory for the first time. Available mathematical models and feasible practical approaches are summarized and their advantages and limitations discussed.
Histomolecular interpretation of pleomorphic adenomas of the salivary gland by matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization imaging and spatial segmentation
Authors: Ernst Günther , Guntinas–Lichius Orlando , Hauberg–Lotte Lena , Trede Dennis , Becker Michael , Alexandrov Theodore , von Eggeling Ferdinand
Published: June 2014

Background

Despite efforts in localization of key proteins using immunohistochemistry, the complex proteomic composition of pleomorphic adenomas has not yet been characterized. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI imaging) allows label‐free and spatially resolved detection of hundreds of proteins directly from tissue sections and of histomorphological regions by finding colocalized molecular signals. Spatial segmentation of MALDI imaging data is an algorithmic method for finding regions of similar proteomic composition as functionally similar regions.

Methods

We investigated 2 pleomorphic adenomas by applying spatial segmentation to the MALDI imaging data of tissue sections.

Results

The spatial segmentation subdivided the tissue in a good accordance with the tissue histology. Numerous molecular signals colocalized with histologically defined tissue regions were found.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the cellular transdifferentiation within the pleomorphic adenoma. It could be shown that spatial segmentation of MALDI imaging data is a promising approach in the emerging field of digital histological analysis and characterization of tumors. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1014–1021, 2015
Evolution of chemical bonding and electron density rearrangements during D3h→ D3dreaction in monolayered TiS2: A QTAIM and ELF study
Authors: Ryzhikov Maxim R. , Slepkov Vladimir A. , Kozlova Svetlana G. , Gabuda Svyatoslav P.
Published: June 2014

Monolayered titanium disulfide TiS2, a prospective nanoelectronic material, was previously shown to be subject to an exothermic solid‐state D3h–D3dreaction that proceeds via a newly discovered transition state. Here, we study the reaction in detail using topological methods of quantum chemistry (quantum theory of atoms in molecules and electron localization function analysis) and show how electron density and chemical bonding between the atoms change in the course of the reaction. The reaction is shown to undergo a series of topological catastrophes, associated with elementary chemical events such as break and formation of bonds (including the unexpected formation of SS bonding between sulfur layers), and rearrangement of electron density of outer valence and core shells. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effects of mild or moderate hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of naloxegol
Authors: Bui Khanh , She Fahua , Sostek Mark
Published: June 2014

Naloxegol is a peripherally acting µ‐opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA) in development for the treatment of opioid‐induced constipation (OIC). The pharmacokinetics of a single oral 25‐mg dose of naloxegol in plasma was assessed in patients with mild (Child‐Pugh class A) or moderate (Child‐Pugh class B) hepatic impairment and compared with healthy volunteers. Participants were matched for sex, age, and body mass index. Hepatically impaired patients exhibited a 17%–18% decrease in area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC) despite similar maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax). This was an unexpected finding given that naloxegol is primarily cleared by the hepatic route. Time to Cmax was shorter in patients with moderate impairment (0.6 hours) versus those with mild impairment (2.3 hours) or normal subjects (2.0 hours). Mean apparent terminal half‐life (t½) was shorter in patients with mild (9.6 hours) and moderate (7.5 hours) hepatic impairment versus healthy subjects (11.3 hours). Reductions in enterohepatic recycling of naloxegol because of hepatic impairment may explain the observed decreases in AUC and t½ observed in these patients. Naloxegol was generally well tolerated, and mild or moderate hepatic impairment appeared to have minimal effect on its pharmacokinetics and safety.
Ambidextrous Leadership and Employees' Self‐Reported Innovative Performance: The Role of Exploration and Exploitation Behaviors
Authors: Zacher Hannes , Robinson Alecia J. , Rosing Kathrin
Published: June 2014

The ambidexterity theory of leadership for innovation proposes that leaders' opening and closing behaviors positively predict employees' exploration and exploitation behaviors, respectively. The interaction of exploration and exploitation behaviors, in turn, is assumed to influence employee innovative performance, such that innovative performance is highest when both exploration and exploitation behaviors are high. The goal of this study was to provide the first empirical test of these hypotheses at the individual employee level. Results based on self‐report data provided by 388 employees were consistent with ambidexterity theory, even after controlling for employee reports of their leaders' transformational and transactional leadership behaviors as well as employees' openness to experience, conscientiousness, and positive affect. The findings extend previous research on ambidexterity at the team and organizational levels and suggest a possible way for leaders to enhance employee self‐reported innovative performance.
Still under the microscope: Can a surgical aptitude test predict otolaryngology resident performance?
Authors: Moore Eric J. , Price Daniel L. , Van Abel Kathryn M. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Application to otolaryngology–head and neck surgery residency is highly competitive, and the interview process strives to select qualified applicants with a high aptitude for the specialty. Commonly employed criteria for applicant selection have failed to show correlation with proficiency during residency training. We evaluate the correlation between the results of a surgical aptitude test administered to otolaryngology resident applicants and their performance during residency.

Study Design

Retrospective study at an academic otolaryngology–head and neck surgery residency program.

Methods

Between 2007 and 2013, 224 resident applicants participated in a previously described surgical aptitude test administered at a microvascular surgical station. The composite score and attitudinal scores for 24 consecutive residents who matched at our institution were recorded, and their residency performance was analyzed by faculty survey on a five‐point scale. The composite and attitudinal scores were analyzed for correlation with residency performance score by regression analysis.

Results

Twenty‐four residents were evaluated for overall quality as a clinician by eight faculty members who were blinded to the results of surgical aptitude testing. The results of these surveys showed good inter‐rater reliability. Both the overall aptitude test scores and the subset attitudinal score showed reliability in predicting performance during residency training.

Conclusions

The goal of the residency selection process is to evaluate the candidate's potential for success in residency and beyond. The results of this study suggest that a simple‐to‐administer clinical skills test may have predictive value for success in residency and clinician quality.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:E57–E61, 2015
Esophageal carcinoma: Evaluation with q‐space diffusion‐weighted MR imaging ex vivo
Authors: Yamada Ichiro , Hikishima Keigo , Miyasaka Naoyuki , Tokairin Yutaka , Ito Eisaku , Kawano Tatsuyuki , Kobayashi Daisuke , Eishi Yoshinobu , Okano Hideyuki
Published: June 2014

Purpose

To determine the usefulness of q‐space MR imaging as means of evaluating the depth of mural invasion, the histologic grades, and lymph node metastasis in esophageal carcinomas.

Methods

Twenty esophageal specimens each containing a carcinoma were studied with a 7.0 Tesla MR imaging system. q‐Space MR images were obtained with a 50–60 mm × 25–30 mm field of view, 256 × 128 matrix, 2 mm section thickness, 10 b values ranging from 0 to 7163 s/mm2, and a motion‐probing gradient in the y‐direction, and the MR images were compared with the histopathologic findings.

Results

The mean displacement maps, probability for zero displacement maps, and kurtosis maps in all 20 carcinomas (100%) made it possible to identify the depth of tumor invasion of the esophageal wall. These q‐space MR imaging parameters were significantly correlated with the histologic grades of the esophageal carcinomas (P < 0.01), and also significantly correlated with their nuclear‐cytoplasmic ratios (P < 0.01 or P < 0.001) and tumor cellularity (cell density) (P < 0.01 or P < 0.001). The q‐space MR imaging parameters were also capable of differentiating between the metastatic lymph nodes and nonmetastatic lymph nodes (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

q‐Space MR imaging ex vivo provides excellent diagnostic accuracy for evaluating mural invasion by esophageal carcinomas, the histologic grades of esophageal carcinomas, and lymph node metastasis by esophageal carcinomas. Magn Reson Med 73:2262–2273, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relative exposure to controller therapy and asthma exacerbations: a validation study in community pharmacies
Authors: Laforest Laurent , Licaj Idlir , Devouassoux Gilles , Chatté Gérard , Belhassen Manon , Van Ganse Eric , Chamba Geneviève
Published: June 2014

Purpose

“Controllers‐to‐total asthma drug” ratios computed from claims data identify asthmatics at risk of exacerbations. Direct link of ratios to data obtained from patients, such as control and recent outcomes, would facilitate their interpretation. We studied the relationship between R1 ratio (inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)/total anti‐asthma drug ratio) and the Asthma Control Test. Comparisons were also conducted for secondary outcomes (asthma‐related hospital contacts, monthly medical contacts, use of oral corticosteroids, and perception of disease burden). Results with R1 ratio were compared with those obtained with a second ratio, “ICS‐plus‐leukotriene receptor antagonist/total asthma drug” (R2 = ICS + leukotriene receptor antagonist/total anti‐asthma drugs).

Methods

A survey was conducted in community pharmacies. Patients visiting with a prescription of anti‐asthma drug and ≥12 months of drug dispensing recorded in the pharmacy were consecutively recruited. Dispensing data were linked to patient‐reported outcomes. Asthma control and secondary outcomes were compared for both ratios between low‐controller‐ratio (R < 50%) and high‐controller‐ratio groups (R ≥ 50%), after excluding null values.

Results

Of the 919 eligible patients (mean age 37 years, 55% women), 90.2% and 92.4% had non‐null values for R1 and R2, respectively. Compared with the low‐controller‐ratio groups, adjusted risks of being uncontrolled were significantly lower in the high‐controller‐ratio groups (RR = 0.64, 95%CI [0.54, 0.77] and RR = 0.57, 95%CI [0.47, 0.70], for R1 and R2 ratios, respectively). Likewise, fewer patients with secondary outcomes were observed in the high‐controller‐ratio groups, for both ratios.

Conclusion

Asthma was better controlled among patients with high controller ratios, along with fewer asthma‐related outcomes, for both R1 and R2 ratios. This confirms the utility of asthma/drug ratios in identifying patients at risk of exacerbations, notably in claims data. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protein post‐translational modifications and misfolding: New concepts in heart failure
Authors: del Monte Federica , Agnetti Giulio
Published: June 2014

A new concept in the field of heart‐failure (HF) research points to a role of misfolded proteins, forming preamyloid oligomers (PAOs), in cardiac toxicity. This is largely based on few studies reporting the presence of PAOs, similar to those observed in neurodegenerative diseases, in experimental and human HF. As the majority of proteinopathies are sporadic in nature, protein post‐translational modifications (PTMs) likely play a major role in this growing class of diseases. In fact, PTMs are known regulators of protein folding and of the formation of amyloid species in well‐established proteinopathies. Proteomics has been instrumental in identifying both chemical and enzymatic PTMs, with a potential impact on protein mis‐/folding. Here we provide the basics on how proteins fold along with a few examples of PTMs known to modulate protein misfolding and aggregation, with particular focus on the heart. Due to its innovative content and the growing awareness of the toxicity of misfolded proteins, an “Alzheimer's theory of HF” is timely. Moreover, the continuous innovations in proteomic technologies will help pinpoint PTMs that could contribute to the process. This nuptial between biology and technology could greatly assist in identifying biomarkers with increased specificity as well as more effective therapies.
Top‐down mass spectrometry of cardiac myofilament proteins in health and disease
Authors: Peng Ying , Ayaz‐Guner Serife , Yu Deyang , Ge Ying
Published: June 2014

Myofilaments are composed of thin and thick filaments that coordinate with each other to regulate muscle contraction and relaxation. PTMs together with genetic variations and alternative splicing of the myofilament proteins play essential roles in regulating cardiac contractility in health and disease. Therefore, a comprehensive characterization of the myofilament proteins in physiological and pathological conditions is essential for better understanding the molecular basis of cardiac function and dysfunction. Due to the vast complexity and dynamic nature of proteins, it is challenging to obtain a holistic view of myofilament protein modifications. In recent years, top‐down MS has emerged as a powerful approach to study isoform composition and PTMs of proteins owing to its advantage of complete sequence coverage and its ability to identify PTMs and sequence variants without a priori knowledge. In this review, we will discuss the application of top‐down MS to the study of cardiac myofilaments and highlight the insights it provides into the understanding of molecular mechanisms in contractile dysfunction of heart failure. Particularly, recent results of cardiac troponin and tropomyosin modifications will be elaborated. The limitations and perspectives on the use of top‐down MS for myofilament protein characterization will also be briefly discussed.
ELF and its relatives—A detailed study about the robustness of the atomic shell structure in real space
Authors: Finzel Kati
Published: June 2014

A set of atomic shell indicators is presented based on the idea to express the positive kinetic energy density with a density‐based ansatz multiplied by a modifying function. It is shown that all modifying functions reveal the atomic shell structure and all but one may serve as chemical bonding descriptors. This study reveals that the real space description of the atomic shell structure is very robust with respect to the proposed ansatz since all derived indicators exhibit the atomic shell structure very close to the ideal one or do not reveal a shell structure at all. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
“Are You an Immigrant?”: Identity‐Based Critical Reflections of Teaching Intercultural Communication
Authors: Chen Yea‐Wen
Published: June 2014

This chapter examines the negotiated experiences of a female international faculty of color teaching an intercultural communication course from the lens of intersecting cultural identities in the context of a prominently White institution in the United States.
International Instructor Preparing Teachers for Multicultural Classrooms in the United States: Teaching Intercultural Communication Competence Online
Authors: McCalman Claudia L.
Published: June 2014

Globalization and recent demographic changes in the United States contribute to an increasing number of nonnative speakers of English in our classrooms. Such multicultural classrooms present different dynamics and challenges. Most teachers don't receive training in college to work with students whose first language and culture are different from their own. Perceiving the need to be better prepared to meet the learning needs of their incoming student population, these teachers chose to pursue the English as a Second Language certification. This chapter explores teachers’ perceptions and experiences while learning content of a prerequisite intercultural course. The author, an international instructor, closes the chapter with her own reflections about the context.
ENDOMORPHISMS OF VERMA MODULES FOR RATIONAL CHEREDNIK ALGEBRAS
Authors: BELLAMY G.
Published: June 2014

We study the endomorphism algebras of Verma modules for rational Cherednik algebras at t = 0. It is shown that, in many cases, these endomorphism algebras are quotients of the centre of the rational Cherednik algebra. Geometrically, they define Lagrangian subvarieties of the generalized Calogero–Moser space. In the introduction, we motivate our results by describing them in the context of derived intersections of Lagrangians.
Technoeconomic evaluation of bio-based styrene production by engineered Escherichia coli
Authors: Claypool Joshua T , Raman D Raj , Jarboe Laura R , Nielsen David R
Published: June 2014

Styrene is an important commodity chemical used in polymers and resins, and is typically produced from the petrochemical feedstocks benzene and ethylene. Styrene has recently been produced biosynthetically for the first time using engineered Escherichia coli, and this bio-based route may represent a lower energy and renewable alternative to petroleum-derived styrene. However, the economics of such an approach has not yet been investigated. Using an early-stage technoeconomic evaluation tool, a preliminary economic analysis of bio-based styrene from C6-sugar feedstock has been conducted. Owing to styrene’s limited water solubility, it was assumed that the resulting fermentation broth would spontaneously form two immiscible liquid phases that could subsequently be decanted. Assuming current C6 sugar prices and industrially achievable biokinetic parameter values (e.g., product yield, specific growth rate), commercial-scale bio-based styrene has a minimum estimated selling price (MESP) of 1.90 USD kg−1 which is in the range of current styrene prices. A Monte Carlo analysis revealed a potentially large (0.45 USD kg−1) standard deviation in the MESP, while a sensitivity analysis showed feedstock price and overall yield as primary drivers of MESP.
Effects of topographic and edaphic conditions on alpine plant species distribution along a slope gradient on Mount Norikura, central Japan
Authors: Takahashi Koichi , Murayama Yoshinori
Published: June 2014

This study examined the effects of topographic and edaphic conditions on alpine plant species distribution along a slope gradient on Mt. Norikura (3026 m a.s.l.), central Japan. Topographic and edaphic factors investigated at 40 plots were: slope inclination, ground surface texture, soil water content and soil inorganic nitrogen concentration (NO3‐N, NH4‐N). The topographic and edaphic factors changed with slope positions: slope inclination was steeper, soil texture was coarser, and soil water and inorganic nitrogen concentration decreased with increasing slope position. Five vegetation types were located along the slope gradient and related to two factor‐groups: (1) changes in soil water, NH4‐N, slope inclination along the slope gradient, and (2) ground surface texture. A tall herbaceous plant community developed at the low slope position, near tarns, with fine soil surface texture, high soil water and NH4‐N, while Dicentra peregrina dominated on an unstable rubble slope near the ridge top. The distribution of each species was predictable from the two factor‐groups. Although the five vegetation types were related to the two factor‐groups, responses to the two factor‐groups differed among species, even within the same vegetation type. Therefore, this study showed that the topography of the terrain largely regulated alpine plant distribution by affecting edaphic conditions, and that global warming may alter species composition by changing edaphic conditions.
The risk of inter‐specific competition in Australian short‐necked turtles
Authors: Spencer Ricky‐John , Georges Arthur , Lim Dorothy , Welsh Mick , Reid Adele M.
Published: June 2014

Freshwater turtles are threatened globally; however, short‐necked turtles in Eastern Australia have been particularly successful in exploiting natural and man‐made permanent water bodies. The catchments of eastern Australia offer a unique opportunity to compare the diets of species in habitats where both genera co‐exist, but only one genus is usually locally dominant. We compared the diets of species ofEmyduraandMyuchelysandFlaviemysin inland and coastal catchments in eastern Australia to determine the breadth of diets. We also conducted a more in depth study of the ecology and habitat preferences of the Bellinger River Emydura (Emydura macquarii macquarii) andMyuchelys georgesi.We found that diets of short‐necked turtles on the east coast of Australia are separated by water conditions, and largely independent of species and location. Species ofMyuchelysandEmyduraare omnivorous. A high proportion of their food is from benthic macro‐invertebrate communities in clear water. Terrestrial invertebrates and filamentous algae are present more in the diets of species inhabiting turbid water. Competition between species ofEmyduraandMyuchelys/Flaviemysis likely to occur when in sympatry, because species ofEmyduracan adapt their diets to various habitats and water quality.Myuchelys georgesiis restricted to, but common in, the Bellinger River. Interspecific competition may occur betweenE. m. macquariiandM. georgesibecause of similar habitat preferences, diets and life histories.Emydura m. macquariiis not unique to the Bellinger River and hybridization with the endemicM. georgesiis a threatening process.
The flux of radionuclides in flowback fluid from shale gas exploitation
Authors: Almond S. , Clancy S. A. , Davies R. J. , Worrall F.
Published: June 2014

This study considers the flux of radioactivity in flowback fluid from shale gas development in three areas: the Carboniferous, Bowland Shale, UK; the Silurian Shale, Poland; and the Carboniferous Barnett Shale, USA. The radioactive flux from these basins was estimated, given estimates of the number of wells developed or to be developed, the flowback volume per well and the concentration of K (potassium) and Ra (radium) in the flowback water. For comparative purposes, the range of concentration was itself considered within four scenarios for the concentration range of radioactive measured in each shale gas basin, the groundwater of the each shale gas basin, global groundwater and local surface water. The study found that (i) for the Barnett Shale and the Silurian Shale, Poland, the 1 % exceedance flux in flowback water was between seven and eight times that would be expected from local groundwater. However, for the Bowland Shale, UK, the 1 % exceedance flux (the flux that would only be expected to be exceeded 1 % of the time, i.e. a reasonable worst case scenario) in flowback water was 500 times that expected from local groundwater. (ii) In no scenario was the 1 % exceedance exposure greater than 1 mSv—the allowable annual exposure allowed for in the UK. (iii) The radioactive flux of per energy produced was lower for shale gas than for conventional oil and gas production, nuclear power production and electricity generated through burning coal.
Pseudo-Winging of the Scapula Caused by Scapular Osteochondroma: Review of Literature and Case Report
Authors: Flugstad Nicholas A. , Sanger James R. , Hackbarth Donald A.
Published: June 2014

Abstract A 20-year-old male was evaluated for winging of the scapula and an enlarging axillary mass of 4 months' duration. Imaging demonstrated a multiloculated cystic lesion that extended into the axilla and superiorly displaced the brachial plexus and axillary vessels surrounding an exostotic mass arising from the scapula. Surgery confirmed the mass to be a benign osteochondroma with a reactive bursa. The long thoracic nerve was intact and the serratus anterior muscle contracted normally with nerve stimulation. The scapular winging resolved completely following resection of the osteochondroma, and shoulder and arm function remained normal. A literature review of causes of pseudo-winging of the scapula was performed. Scapular osteochondroma is a rarely reported cause of scapula winging.
Secondary Healing of Fingertip Amputations: A Review
Authors: Krauss Emily M. , Lalonde Donald H.
Published: June 2014

Most literature on fingertips reviews new surgical techniques of coverage while many surgeons prefer the results of secondary healing. This article reviews the current best evidence and concepts about secondary healing in fingertip injuries.
Evidence for Safe Tourniquet Use in 500 Consecutive Upper Extremity Procedures
Authors: Drolet Brian C. , Okhah Zachary , Phillips Benjamin Z. , Christian Benjamin P. , Akelman Edward , Katarincic Julia , Schmidt Scott T.
Published: June 2014

Background

Although pneumatic tourniquets are widely used in upper extremity surgery, further evidence is needed to support their safe use. Excessive pressure and prolonged ischemic time can cause soft-tissue injury. The purpose of this study was to determine the safety of tourniquet use in a yearlong, consecutive series of patients.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent upper extremity surgery by two board-certified hand surgeons over a 1-year period was performed. Demographic variables, comorbidities, and complications were noted along with tourniquet parameters, including application site, ischemic pressure, and time.

Results

A total 505 patients were included in the study because a tourniquet was used during their operation. Patients ranged in age from 3 months to 90 years old (mean 40.1 years). More than half of the population was overweight (mean body mass index (BMI) 27.1), and 77.1 % of adults had at least one cardiac risk factor. No immediate or delayed tourniquet-related injuries were identified. The average operative time was 35.9 min, with an average tourniquet time of 33.1 min. Tourniquet inflation pressure of 250 or 225 mmHg was utilized in 78 and 21 % of adult patients, respectively; no patients had a pressure setting exceeding 275 mmHg.

Conclusion

In this series of more than 500 operations, there were no immediate or delayed tourniquet-related events using parameters determined perioperatively by the attending surgeon. Tourniquet pressures of 250 mmHg or less in adult patients with less than 2 h of ischemic time appear to be safe, even in the elderly and patients with multiple medical comorbidities.