bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Topography on Subglacial Discharge and Submarine Melting During Tidewater Glacier Retreat
Authors: Amundson J. M. , Carroll D.
Published: December 2017

To first order, subglacial discharge depends on climate, which determines precipitation fluxes and glacier mass balance, and the rate of glacier volume change. For tidewater glaciers, large and rapid changes in glacier volume can occur independent of climate change due to strong glacier dynamic feedbacks. Using an idealized tidewater glacier model, we show that these feedbacks produce secular variations in subglacial discharge that are influenced by subglacial topography. Retreat along retrograde bed slopes (into deep water) results in rapid surface lowering and coincident increases in subglacial discharge. Consequently, submarine melting of glacier termini, which depends on subglacial discharge and ocean thermal forcing, also increases during retreat into deep water. Both subglacial discharge and submarine melting subsequently decrease as glacier termini retreat out of deep water and approach new steady state equilibria. In our simulations, subglacial discharge reached peaks that were 6–17% higher than preretreat values, with the highest values occurring during retreat from narrow sills, and submarine melting increased by 14% for unstratified fjords and 51% for highly stratified fjords. Our results therefore indicate that submarine melting acts in concert with iceberg calving to cause tidewater glacier termini to be unstable on retrograde beds. The full impact of submarine melting on tidewater glacier stability remains uncertain, however, due to poor understanding of the coupling between submarine melting and iceberg calving.
Impact of Three‐Phase Relative Permeability and Hysteresis Models on Forecasts of Storage Associated With CO2‐EOR
Authors: Jia Wei , McPherson Brian , Pan Feng , Dai Zhenxue , Moodie Nathan , Xiao Ting
Published: December 2017

Geological CO2sequestration in conjunction with enhanced oil recovery (CO2‐EOR) includes complex multiphase flow processes compared to CO2storage in deep saline aquifers. Two of the most important factors affecting multiphase flow in CO2‐EOR are three‐phase relative permeability and associated hysteresis, both of which are difficult to measure and are usually represented by numerical interpolation models. The purpose of this study is to improve understanding of (1) the relative impacts of different three‐phase relative permeability models and hysteresis models on CO2trapping mechanisms, and (2) uncertainty associated with these two factors. Four different three‐phase relative permeability models and three hysteresis models were applied to simulations of an active CO2‐EOR site, the SACROC unit located in western Texas. To eliminate possible bias of deterministic parameters, we utilized a sequential Gaussian simulation technique to generate 50 realizations to describe heterogeneity of porosity and permeability, based on data obtained from well logs and seismic survey. Simulation results of forecasted CO2storage suggested that (1) the choice of three‐phase relative permeability model and hysteresis model led to noticeable impacts on forecasted CO2sequestration capacity; (2) impacts of three‐phase relative permeability models and hysteresis models on CO2trapping are small during the CO2‐EOR injection period, and increase during the post‐EOR CO2injection period; (3) the specific choice of hysteresis model is more important relative to the choice of three‐phase relative permeability model; and (4) using the recommended three‐phase WAG (Water‐Alternating‐Gas) hysteresis model may increase the impact of three‐phase relative permeability models and uncertainty due to heterogeneity.
Nanoformulation of Brain‐Derived Neurotrophic Factor with Target Receptor‐Triggered‐Release in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Jiang Yuhang , Fay James M. , Poon Chi‐Duen , Vinod Natasha , Zhao Yuling , Bullock Kristin , Qin Si , Manickam Devika S , Yi Xiang , Banks William A. , Kabanov Alexander V.
Published: December 2017

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is identified as a potent neuroprotective and neuroregenerative agent for many neurological diseases. Regrettably, its delivery to the brain is hampered by poor serum stability and rapid brain clearance. Here, a novel nanoformulation is reported composed of a biocompatible polymer, poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(l‐glutamic acid) (PEG‐PLE), that hosts the BDNF molecule in a nanoscale complex, termed here Nano‐BDNF. Upon simple mixture, Nano‐BDNF spontaneously forms uniform spherical particles with a core–shell structure. Molecular dynamics simulations suggest that binding between BDNF and PEG‐PLE is mediated through electrostatic coupling as well as transient hydrogen bonding. The formation of Nano‐BDNF complex stabilizes BDNF and protects it from nonspecific binding with common proteins in the body fluid, while allowing it to associate with its receptors. Following intranasal administration, the nanoformulation improves BDNF delivery throughout the brain and displays a more preferable regional distribution pattern than the native protein. Furthermore, intranasally delivered Nano‐BDNF results in superior neuroprotective effects in the mouse brain with lipopolysaccharides‐induced inflammation, indicating promise for further evaluation of this agent for the therapy of neurologic diseases.
Light‐Harvesting Fluorescent Supramolecular Block Copolymers Based on Cyanostilbene Derivatives and Cucurbit[8]urils in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Kim Hyeong‐Ju , Nandajan Paramjyothi C. , Gierschner Johannes , Park Soo Young
Published: December 2017

A novel system of light‐harvesting supramolecular block copolymers (SBCPs) in water is demonstrated. To realize cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8])‐based SBCPs generating artificial light‐harvesting in water, finely color‐tuned supramolecular homopolymers (SHPs) comprising CB[8] host and different cyanostilbene guests (named as B, G, Y, and R) emitting blue, green, yellow, and red fluorescence are first synthesized and characterized, respectively. Light‐harvesting SBCPs with mixed guest emitters are then simply produced by mixing blue and red‐emitting SHPs according to the dynamic host–guest exchange interaction. The light‐harvesting SBCPs show highly efficient energy transfer from B (donor D) to R (acceptor A) attributed to the D/A proximity and parallel orientation of their transition dipoles secured in the block copolymer structure. It is comprehensively shown that cyanostilbene/CB[8]‐based fluorescent SBCPs represent a novel and fascinating class of eco‐friendly artificial light‐harvesting system.
Mikroemulsionen, Micellen und funktionelle Gele: Erhaltung von Kunstwerken mit Kolloiden und weicher Materie
Authors: Chelazzi David , Giorgi Rodorico , Baglioni Piero
Published: December 2017

Die Kolloidwissenschaft liefert grundlegende Erkenntnisse für z. B. die pharmazeutische Industrie oder die Wasch‐ und Reinigungsmittel‐, Farb‐ und Nahrungsmittelindustrie. Eine interessante Anwendung ist die Erhaltung von Kunstwerken, die wegen der komplexen Grenzflächenwechselwirkungen, die mit der Restaurierung von Artefakten verbunden sind, eine anspruchsvolle Aufgabe ist. Derzeit ist die Mehrzahl der wirksamsten und umweltverträglichsten Reinigungs‐ und Konsolidierungsmittel für Kunstwerke der weichen Materie und Kolloiden zuzuordnen. Die Entwicklung und Anwendung von immer komplexeren Systemen, von Mikroemulsionen bis zu semi‐interpenetrierenden Hydrogelen, die derartige Flüssigkeiten enthalten, werden in diesem Kurzaufsatz aufgezeigt. Diese Systeme wurden bei verschiedenen Artefakten eingesetzt: von Fresken der Renaissance bis zu Werken von Picasso und Pollock. Chemisches Design kann genutzt werden, um den Anforderungen von Konservatoren gerecht zu werden, und mit den Erkenntnissen zur Struktur und Dynamik von Kolloiden können zufällige Ansätze der herkömmlichen Konservierungspraxis überwunden werden. Außerdem werden die Perspektiven der Anwendung von Kolloiden und weicher Materie für die Erhaltung von Kulturerbe zusammengefasst.
Deuterierter molekularer Rubin mit Rekord‐Lumineszenzquantenausbeute
Authors: Wang Cui , Otto Sven , Dorn Matthias , Kreidt Elisabeth , Lebon Jakob , Sršan Laura , Di Martino‐Fumo Patrick , Gerhards Markus , Resch‐Genger Ute , Seitz Michael , Heinze Katja
Published: December 2017

Der kürzlich publizierte Chrom(III)‐Komplex 13+ ([Cr(ddpd)2]3+) zeigt in wässriger Lösung unter Umgebungsbedingungen eine bemerkenswert starke Emission im nahen Infrarot‐Bereich mit einer Emissionswellenlänge von 775 nm. Geschicktes Ligandendesign verhindert strahlungslose Desaktivierungsprozesse wie Photosubstitution, Rück‐Intersystem‐Crossing und trigonale Verzerrungen und führt damit zu einer Phosphoreszenzlebensdauer im Bereich von Mikrosekunden. In Abwesenheit von Energieakzeptoren wie molekularem Sauerstoff verbleibt nur Energietransfer zu hochenergetischen Oszillatoren der Liganden und Lösungsmittelmoleküle wie beispielsweise OH‐ und CH‐Streckschwingungen als Desaktivierungspfad. Selektive Deuterierung der ddpd‐Liganden und der Lösungsmittel lässt die Effizienz dieser Oszillatoren bei der Desaktivierung angeregter Zustände erkennbar werden. Gezieltes Ausschalten dieser Relaxationspfade führt zu einer Quantenausbeute von 30 % und einer Lebensdauer von 2.3 Millisekunden bei Raumtemperatur in Lösung – Rekordwerte für einen Komplex, der auf dem Element Chrom basiert. Diese fundamentalen Erkenntnisse ebnen den Weg für gezieltes Ligandendesign zur Synthese lumineszierender Komplexe mit gut verfügbaren Übergangsmetallen.
Plant lignocellulose‐based feedstocks hydrogenolysis into polyols over a new efficient nickel–tungsten catalyst
Authors: Xiao Zhuqian , Xu Yidan , Fan Yu , Zhang Qiang , Mao Jianwei , Ji Jianbing
Published: December 2017

Here, we developed a new strategy for preparation of series of in‐situ reduction bimetallic catalysts Ni‐W/SiO2 by introducing of reducing agent in the preparation process. And these catalysts were applied into the catalytic hydrogenolysis of microcrystalline cellulose and pretreated lignocellulose. The results show that the in situ reduction 15%Ni–20%W/SiO2 shows the prominent activity for microcrystalline cellulose conversion into ethylene glycol (EG), 1,2‐propylene glycol, and glycerol with the highest yield of EG at 61.30% under the experimental condition. And the relative high of EG yield (30.23%) was obtained when a combinative pretreatment technology of steam explosion (0.45 MPa) coupled with hot alkali (70 °C) was introduced to enhance the hydrogenolysis of plant lignocellulose‐based feedstocks over the in situ reduction catalyst 15%Ni–20%W/SiO2. The SEM and thermogravimetry analysis revealed that segmental lignin and hemicellulose were removed partly by hot alkali pretreatment. Meanwhile, the existence of Ni–W alloys and metal Ni particles were evidenced by X‐ray diffraction spectra. In addition, by the detailed analysis via transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the catalytic particle size was distributed in the range of 9.3 ± 1.3 nm.
Fabrication of an eco‐friendly antioxidant biocomposite: Zedo gum/sodium caseinate film by incorporating microalgae (Spirulina platensis)
Authors: Moghaddas Kia Ehsan , Ghasempour Zahra , Alizadeh Mohammad
Published: December 2017

Developments in the field of biodegradable packaging have led to interests in application of new natural polymers, due to their lower environmental hazards. This study was undertaken to design edible films based on Zedo gum/sodium caseinate (ZG/NaCs) with microalgae (Spirulina platensis) as an antioxidant compound. A central composite design was used to assess structural, physicochemical, barrier, and mechanical parameters of potential antioxidative edible films. Mixture of different ratios of NaCs (2%–6%), ZG (0%–1%), and microalgal biomass (0%–0.5%) was applied to fabricate samples. Films containing higher concentration of microalgae (0.5%) and ZG represented pronounced opacity and antioxidative characteristics. Lower amounts of microalgae by increasing NaCs amount, enhanced elasticity of samples. NaCs‐based films were thicker and more transparent. Fourier transform infrared spectra analysis confirmed combination of microalgae and ZG in NaCs mixture. Taken together, this study suggests a new biocomposite colored formulation, which had satisfactory characteristics for a novel edible film packaging material. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46024.
Thermal and UV degradation of polypropylene with pro‐oxidant. Abiotic characterization
Authors: Arráez Francisco J. , Arnal María Luisa , Müller Alejandro J.
Published: December 2017

The oxodegradation of an injection molding grade polypropylene (PP), formulated with 0%, 1.5%, and 3% w/w of a pro‐oxidant additive, was studied. The degradation was conducted in a weathering tester at 60 °C for 40 h. The process was monitored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, standard differential scanning calorimetry, and successive self‐nucleation and annealing. Neat PP samples did not exhibit significant changes during the exposure time employed. PP samples with oxo‐additive presented similar changes independently of the amount of oxo‐degradative additive employed; however, the changes manifested more rapidly in the formulation with higher pro‐oxidant content. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies revealed the presence of hydroxyl and carbonyl functional groups whereas differential scanning calorimetry tests showed the decrease in the melting and crystallization temperatures as a consequence of the chain scission and oxidation reactions taking place during exposure. In addition, the induction time (tid) of the oxo‐degradative process was determined for each technique employed and successive self‐nucleation and annealing was found to be the most sensitive characterization technique to reveal structural modifications in PP samples. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46088.
Complexity of river ciliate communities at a national park highlights the need for microbial conservation
Authors: Quintela‐Alonso Pablo , Pérez‐Uz Blanca , Sanchez‐Jimenez Abel , Murciano Antonio , Centeno Juan D. , García‐Rodríguez Manuel , Montero Esperanza , Muñoz Benito , Olmedo Cristina , Refoyo Pablo , Velasco‐González Ismael , Martín‐Cereceda Mercedes
Published: December 2017

Microorganisms play pivotal roles in aquatic ecosystems. Free‐living protists are the main components of the eukaryotic microbial communities at the base of freshwater ecosystems. Ciliate grazing channels a large proportion of organic matter into multicellular organisms. Surprisingly, ciliates and other microorganisms are neglected in global conservation schemes.

Interstitial ciliates were sampled in three sites of varying human pressure on the River Manzanares (La Pedriza National Park, Spain). Abundances of trophic groups and species were adjusted to a generalized linear model (GLM Poisson regression).

Ciliate communities were rich in species (74 morphotypes) and although traditional microscopy retrieved a high number of species that appeared only once or in low numbers, rarefaction analyses estimated much larger species richness. These results illustrate that rarefaction assays are a useful first step for exploring the extent of the ciliate cryptic diversity in freshwater ecosystems.

Benthic ciliate communities changed significantly, both spatially and at a short temporal scale. The fluctuating nature of the community was manifested by the presence of many ephemeral species at the same river site, revealing a complex and transient community structure. No significant short‐term changes were observed in the physical–chemical properties. Therefore, even slight differences in the abiotic variables may cause rapid shifts of ciliate species.

Overall, human pressure had an effect on the interstitial (or benthic) ciliates that resulted in a reduction of species richness and their abundance.
Chinese neurologists’ perspective on intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Wang Meng‐Die , Yin Xiao‐Xv , Yang Ting‐Ting , Wang Yong , Zhu Yi‐Yi , Zhou Yan‐Feng , Lu Zu‐Xun , Hu Bo
Published: December 2017

Objectives

This study examined the neurologists’ perspective toward intravenous thrombolysis for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke and the influencing factors in a Chinese Province.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted from 1 October 2014 to 31 January 2015. A total of 719 neurologists from 66 hospitals in Hubei Province were included. A questionnaire was designed, and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify the factors associated with the neurologists’ perspective toward intravenous thrombolysis.

Results

Among the responding neurologists, 67.3% reported using intravenous thrombolysis and 32.9% believed the treatment was unsafe. Approximately 51.4% reported deficits in their knowledge of intravenous thrombolysis and 45.8% felt unconfident about their ability to employ the treatment. The majority (90.1%) supported hospitals in performing intravenous thrombolysis for eligible patients. Their safety concern was associated with hospital grade (odds ratio[OR] = 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4–3.7) and previous experiences with thrombolysis (OR = 3.1; 95% CI, 2.1–4.6). Their confidence was associated with their educational background (OR = 2.5; 95% CI, 1.3–4.5), knowledge mastery (OR = 10.4; 95% CI, 6.6–16.3), and previous experiences with thrombolysis (OR = 3.3; 95% CI, 2.1–5.3). Their attitudes were associated with gender (OR = 0.6; 95% CI, 0.3–1.0) and previous experiences with thrombolysis (OR = 4.9; 95% CI, 2.5–9.4).

Conclusions

Most neurologists in Hubei Province, China, identified with intravenous thrombolysis for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. However, they were weak in knowledge and lack confidence. Therefore, training, especially practical training, is needed to promote the use of thrombolysis in the region.
Definite stent thrombosis after drug‐eluting stent implantation in coronary bifurcation lesions: A meta‐analysis of 3,107 patients from 14 randomized trials
Authors: Zhou Yu , Chen Shengda , Huang Lan , Hildick‐Smith David , Ferenc Miroslaw , Jabbour Richard J. , Azzalini Lorenzo , Colombo Antonio , Chieffo Alaide , Zhao Xiaohui
Published: December 2017

Background

Bifurcation percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a challenging procedure, but there are currently inadequate data about definite stent thrombosis (ST) rates of single‐stent versus double‐stent strategies (SS and DS, respectively).

Methods and results

Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing SS and DS strategies were searched through PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Fourteen RCTs involving 3,107 patients were analyzed. Owing to the high crossover rate (16.49%), both intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and as‐treated (AT) analyses were performed. In the ITT population, there was a significantly lower rate of early definite ST in the SS group (0.26%; DS group 1.14%; P = 0.021). Similarly, in the AT population, there was a significantly lower rate of early definite ST in the SS group (0.23%, DS group 1.07%; P = 0.042). True bifurcation subgroup analysis also showed a significantly lower early definite ST in the SS group (OR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.15–0.86, P = 0.042) in the ITT population. There was no significant difference of overall, acute, subacute, and late definite ST between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

Early definite ST is reduced when a SS strategy is used in bifurcation lesions.
Facile Synthesis of Magnetic Hierarchical Core–Shell Structured Fe3O4@PDA‐Pd@MOF Nanocomposites: Highly Integrated Multifunctional Catalysts
Authors: Ma Rong , Yang Pengbo , Ma Yao , Bian Fengling
Published: December 2017

A magnetic hierarchical core–shell structured Fe3O4@PDA‐Pd@[Cu3(btc)2] nanocomposite has been fabricated via a facile layer‐by‐layer assembly method. It contains a core of polydopamine (PDA)‐modified magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs), a transition layer of Pd NPs, and a porous outer shell of copper‐based metal–organic framework (MOF) with controllable thickness. This novel nanocomposite was characterized by TEM, FTIR, XRD, XPS, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, and VSM. The prepared Fe3O4@PDA‐Pd@[Cu3(btc)2] (n=5) nanocomposite shows ultrahigh catalytic activity for the 4‐nitrophenol reduction and Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions of aryl halides (Br, Cl) with arylboronic acids. Moreover, the nanocomposite also can be easily separated by an external magnet and reused at least 8 runs with excellent yields for both the reactions. The catalyst has outstanding catalytic performance, mainly because the integration of [Cu3(btc)2] with Fe3O4@PDA‐Pd that combines the advantages of each component could exhibit a synergistic effect in the catalytic system.
From a Metastable Layer to a Stable Ring: A Kinetic Study for Transformation Reactions of Li2Mo3TeO12 to Polyoxometalates
Authors: Oh Seung‐Jin , Lim Seong‐Ji , You Tae‐Soo , Ok Kang Min
Published: December 2017

A metastable tellurite, Li2Mo3TeO12, revealing a corrugated layered structure in an extremely strained coordination environment was hydrothermally synthesized in high yield. Li2Mo3TeO12 undergoes Li+‐exchange‐driven facile structural transformation reactions to polyoxometalates. The kinetic data for the transformation reactions at various conditions were successfully obtained by simple lab‐source powder X‐ray diffraction. The investigation suggests that the solid‐state transformation reactions may occur through a series of steps; substitution, decomposition, recombination, and precipitation. This new finding could be utilized in discovering functional metastable materials as well as understanding their phase transition mechanisms.
Multilayer Cucurbit[6]uril‐Based Magnetic Nanoparticles Prepared by Host–Guest Interaction: Remarkable Adsorbent for Low Density Lipoprotein Removal from Plasma
Authors: Jiang Dandan , Li Xiqian , Jia Qiong
Published: December 2017

Efficient removal of low density lipoprotein (LDL) is a key challenge due to its high level in plasma as a primary risk factor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In this work, a facile synthesis strategy based on host–guest interactions was developed to prepare multilayer cucurbit[6]uril‐based magnetic nanoparticles, MNPs‐(HA‐DAH5/HA‐CB[6]5). The compound was employed as a blood purification material for the removal of LDL from plasma because it had good blood compatibility and could be easily separated with an external magnet. The efficient removal of LDL was attributed to the electrostatic interactions between the positive charged apoB‐100 domain of LDL and the negative charged adsorbent. Moreover, the prepared material exhibited high recyclability and could release LDL in physiological saline for recyclable use. MNPs‐(HA‐DAH5/HA‐CB[6]5) offered promising perspectives and broad applications in extracorporeal treatment for the removal of LDL.
GC‐MS/MS detects potential pregabalin abuse in susceptible subjects’ hair
Authors: Ianni Federica , Aroni Kyriaki , Gili Alessio , Sardella Roccaldo , Bacci Mauro , Lancia Massimo , Natalini Benedetto , Gambelunghe Cristiana
Published: December 2017

Pregabalin, a GABA analogue, binds to the alpha 2 delta subunit of voltage‐dependent calcium channels. It is recognised as efficacious in pathologies such as epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and anxiety disorders. Since pregabalin prescriptions have increased worldwide, reports of its abuse have been accumulating, mainly in patients with opioid abuse disorders. The present study investigated potential pregabalin abuse by means of hair analysis, a matrix that provides valuable retrospective information. Half of the pool of 280 susceptible patients had been occasional drug users and were being monitored for driving licence renewals. The other 140 patients had a history of opiate dependency and were monitored to assess compliance with methadone therapy. In view of determining pregabalin in hair samples, it was extracted in methanol, successfully derivatised to give the ethyl chloroformate derivative, and finally pregabalin was analysed by gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Selectivity, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, recovery, intra‐ and inter‐day precision, and accuracy of the quantification procedure were appraised. Pregabalin limits of detection and quantification were 30 pg/mg and 50 pg/mg, respectively. We found 10.7% of hair samples from methadone patients and 4.29% from occasional drug users were positive to pregabalin without medical prescription. The mean pregabalin concentration in hair was higher than in consumers with medical indications (1.45 ng/mg vs 0.74 ng/mg).

These results suggest that pregabalin possesses a significant abuse potential particularly among individuals attending opiate dependence services and that pregabalin abuse is a serious emerging issue, which should be carefully monitored.
Reliability and validity of the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale‐12: Attachment dimensions in a clinical sample with eating disorders
Authors: Tasca Giorgio A. , Brugnera Agostino , Baldwin Danielle , Carlucci Samantha , Compare Angelo , Balfour Louise , Proulx Genevieve , Gick Mary , Lafontaine Marie‐France
Published: December 2017

Objective

Attachment insecurity is a potential risk factor for the development and maintenance of eating disorders (EDs). To date, there are multiple psychometrically sound questionnaires for the evaluation of attachment in both clinical and healthy populations, such as the Experience in Close Relationships (ECR) scale. Composed by two subscales (i.e., attachment anxiety and avoidance), the ECR scale was recently adapted to a shorter, 12‐item version (ECR‐12). However, a validation of the ECR‐12 among patients with EDs is still lacking. The present study sought to investigate the psychometric properties of the ECR‐12, when used in a treatment‐seeking sample with EDs.

Method

A total of 1,262 treatment‐seeking patients with various ED diagnoses completed the ECR‐12, together with a commonly used measure of ED psychopathology (Eating Disorder Inventory‐2). Subsamples also completed the Attachment Style Questionnaire (n = 66) or underwent a Day Hospital Program (n = 128).

Results

A multigroup confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the ECR‐12 maintained its two‐factor structure across the ED diagnostic groups. In addition, the scale demonstrated good convergent validity, internal consistency, concurrent, and incremental validity. Finally, both ECR‐12 subscales demonstrated adequate test–retest reliability.

Discussion

Our results provide preliminary evidence of the psychometric properties of ECR‐12 in assessing attachment anxiety and avoidance among patients with EDs. This short scale could help clinicians tailor interventions for EDs that take into account attachment dimensions.
Driven exercise in the absence of binge eating: Implications for purging disorder
Authors: Lydecker Janet A. , Shea Megan , Grilo Carlos M.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Purging disorder (PD) is characterized by recurrent purging without objectively large binge‐eating episodes. PD has received relatively little attention, and questions remain about the clinical significance of “purging” by exercise that is driven or compulsive (i.e., as extreme compensatory or weight‐control behavior). The little available research suggests that individuals who use exercise as a compensatory behavior might have less eating‐disorder psychopathology than those who purge by vomiting or laxatives, but those studies have had smaller sample sizes, defined PD using low‐frequency thresholds, and defined exercise without weight‐compensatory or driven elements.

Method

Participants (N = 2,017) completed a web‐based survey with established measures of eating‐disorder psychopathology, depression, and physical activity. Participants were categorized (regular compensatory driven exercise, PD‐E, n = 297; regular compensatory vomiting/laxatives, PD‐VL, n = 59; broadly defined anorexia nervosa, AN, n = 20; and no eating‐disordered behaviors, NED, n = 1,658) and compared.

Results

PD‐E, PD‐VL, and AN had higher eating‐disorder psychopathology and physical activity than NED but did not significantly differ from each other on most domains. PD‐VL and AN had higher depression than PD‐E, which was higher than NED.

Discussion

Findings suggest that among participants with regularly compensatory behaviors without binge eating, those who use exercise alone have similar levels of associated eating‐disorder psychopathology as those who use vomiting/laxatives, although they have lower depression levels and overall frequency of purging. Findings provide further support for the clinical significance of PD. Clinicians and researchers should recognize the severity of driven exercise as a compensatory behavior, and the need for further epidemiological and treatment research.
Questionnaire‐based problematic relationship to eating and food is associated with 25 year body mass index trajectories during midlife: The Coronary Artery Risk Development In Young Adults (CARDIA) Study
Authors: Yoon Cynthia , Jacobs David R. , Duprez Daniel A. , Dutton Gareth , Lewis Cora E. , Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne , Steffen Lyn M. , West Delia S. , Mason Susan M.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Problematic eating behaviors and attitudes are of public health concern. Questionnaire‐based assessment of these behaviors is important for large‐scale research on eating behaviors. The questionnaire on eating and weight patterns‐revised (QEWP‐R) measures potential problematic behaviors and attitudes toward food (including anxieties, compensatory actions, overeating and loss of control, dieting, and shape concerns) that in aggregate may indicate diagnosable eating disorders. An important question regards the prevalence of these issues and their longitudinal associations with body mass index (BMI) in generally healthy middle aged adults.

Method

Based on eight constructs measured on QEWP‐R, we created a new problematic relationship to eating and food (PREF) scale by assigning a point for each construct endorsed. Analyses were conducted in 3,892 black and white men and women participating in the community‐based Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. The QEWP‐R was administered in CARDIA year 10, when participants were aged 27–41 years. We used linear regression to model the relationship of individual constructs and the PREF scale to BMI over CARDIA follow‐up.

Results

Fifty‐five percent of participants had 1–5 points and 4% had 6–8 points on the PREF scale. Each separate construct was positively associated with BMI, except concern about weight and shape. Adjusting for age, race, sex, education, and study center, mean BMI at CARDIA year 10, the time of PREF assessment, was approximately 1.0–2.5 kg/m2 higher per PREF category.

Conclusion

In middle age, problematic behaviors and attitudes toward food were common and associated with higher BMI.
Bronze Age settlement mounds on the Colchian plain at the Black Sea coast of Georgia: A geoarchaeological perspective
Authors: Laermanns Hannes , Kirkitadze Giorgi , May Simon Matthias , Kelterbaum Daniel , Opitz Stephan , Heisterkamp Arne , Basilaia Giorgi , Elashvili Mikheil , Brückner Helmut
Published: December 2017

Situated between the Enguri and Khobistskali rivers, more than 30 settlement mounds (locally named Dikhagudzuba) provide evidence for a relatively densely populated landscape in the coastal lowlands of western Georgia during the Bronze Age. Compared to older mounds in eastern Georgia and other regions, these mounds differ not only in age but also in their average size and spatial distribution. Based on the interpretation of nine sediment cores, drone survey and structure‐from‐motion photogrammetry techniques, our study aims at (i) establishing a chronostratigraphic framework for the mounds based on 14C dating; (ii) reconstructing possible phases and gaps in human occupation; (iii) determining potential source areas of the mounds’ construction material; and (iv) identifying the environmental conditions at the time of their use. The three investigated mounds are similar in dimension and stratigraphy. Anthropogenic layers could clearly be identified and separated from the natural alluvial deposits below. According to the 14C age estimates, the mounds date to the first half of the 2nd millennium B.C.; this confirms the archaeological interpretation of their Bronze Age origin. While only one construction phase is assumed for two of the mounds, stratigraphic analysis suggests a successive enlargement of a third mound over at least 470 years. Paleoenvironmental conditions in the vicinity of the mounds were dominated by swampy, fluvial (channel) to alluvial (overbank) processes, as attested by river‐bank deposits and floodplain alluvium.
Region‐specific deletions of the glutamate transporter GLT1 differentially affect seizure activity and neurodegeneration in mice
Authors: Sugimoto Junya , Tanaka Moeko , Sugiyama Kaori , Ito Yukiko , Aizawa Hidenori , Soma Miho , Shimizu Tomoko , Mitani Akira , Tanaka Kohichi
Published: December 2017

Glial glutamate transporter GLT1 plays a key role in the maintenance of extracellular glutamate homeostasis. Recent human genetic studies have suggested that de novo mutations in GLT1 (EAAT2) cause early‐onset epilepsy with multiple seizure types. Consistent with these findings, global GLT1 null mice show lethal spontaneous seizures. The consequences of GLT1 dysfunction vary between different brain regions, suggesting that the role of GLT1 dysfunction in epilepsy may also vary with brain regions. In this study, we generated region‐specific GLT1 knockout mice by crossing floxed‐GLT1 mice with mice that express the Cre recombinase in a particular domain of the ventricular zone. Selective deletion of GLT1 in the diencephalon, brainstem and spinal cord is sufficient to reproduce the phenotypes (excess mortality, decreased body weight, and lethal spontaneous seizure) of the global GLT1 null mice. By contrast, dorsal forebrain‐specific GLT1 knockout mice showed nonlethal complex seizures including myoclonic jerks, hyperkinetic running, spasm and clonic convulsion via the activation of NMDA receptors during a limited period from P12 to P14 and selective neuronal death in cortical layer II/III and the hippocampus. Thus, GLT1 dysfunction in the dorsal forebrain is involved in the pathogenesis of infantile epilepsy and GLT1 in the diencephalon, brainstem and spinal cord may play a critical role in preventing seizure‐induced sudden death.
Risk factors for nuchal cord entanglement at delivery
Authors: Nkwabong Elie , Ndoumbe Mballo Jacky , Dohbit Julius Sama
Published: December 2017

Objective

To identify nuchal cord risk factors.

Methods

The present case–control study was carried out between December 2016 and April 2017 at two hospitals in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Singletons with a nuchal cord at delivery (case group) as well as the two neonates without a nuchal cord delivered immediately after each case (control group), all in cephalic presentation, were included. Undated pregnancies were excluded. The main variables studied were maternal age, parity, pregnancy duration at delivery, cord insertion site, cord length, delivery weight, and fetal sex.

Results

A nuchal cord was present in 121 (6.0%) of 2015 singletons. The final analysis included 114 and 228 neonates in the case and control groups, respectively, with similar maternal age, parity, pregnancy duration, and delivery weight. Significant independent risk factors for nuchal cord formation were a cord length of 70 cm or more (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 19.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 8.63–42.04), a pregnancy duration of more than 42 weeks (aOR 7.43, 95% CI 1.46–37.21), marginal cord insertion (aOR 2.90, 95% CI 1.11–9.35), and a male fetus (aOR 2.14, 95% CI 1.16–7.74).

Conclusion

Marginal cord insertion and post‐term pregnancy should be added to the list of known nuchal cord risk factors.
Cardiovascular biochemical risk factors among women with spontaneous preterm delivery
Authors: Heida Karst Y. , Kampman Marlies A. , Franx Arie , De Laat Monique W. , Mulder Barbara J. , Van der Post Joris A. , Bilardo Catia M. , Pieper Petronella G. , Sollie Krystyna M. , Sieswerda Gertjan T. , Ris‐Stalpers Carrie , Oudijk Martijn A.
Published: December 2017

Objective

To determine whether women delivering preterm have unfavorable cardiovascular profiles as compared with women who deliver at term.

Methods

A prospective observational cohort study enrolled 165 women with spontaneous preterm delivery (sPTD) at 24+0 and 36+6 gestational weeks in three perinatal care centers in The Netherlands between August 2012 and August 2014. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol, apolipoprotein, glucose, and homocysteine were measured within 24 hours after delivery. Lipids and cardiovascular biochemical risk factors were compared between women with sPTD and an external comparison group of 30 women with term delivery via analysis of covariance.

Results

Mean gestational age at delivery was 30.7 ± 3.6 weeks in the sPTD group and 40.3 ± 1.3 weeks in the reference group. Data were adjusted for body mass index, age, and center. As compared with the reference group, total cholesterol and LDL‐cholesterol levels were lower and glucose levels were higher among women with sPTD.

Conclusion

An association between sPTD and unfavorable lipids and cardiovascular biochemical risk factors was not established. The higher levels of glucose in the sPTD group might be due to increased insulin resistance, which is associated with a higher risk of sPTD.
α‐Lipoic acid inhibits testicular and epididymal oxidative damage and improves fertility efficacy in arsenic‐intoxicated rats
Authors: Prathima Papisetty , Pavani Ramanadhapuram , Sukeerthi Sadepalli , Sainath Sri Bhashyam
Published: December 2017

The present study evaluates the protective effect of α‐lipoic acid (LA) against arsenic‐induced testicular and epididymal oxidative damage in rats. Arsenic caused significant reduction in the reproductive organ weights, serum testosterone levels, testicular daily sperm count, epididymal sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability, and sperm membrane integrity. Significant reduction in the activity levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione levels with a concomitant increase in the lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl content in the testis and the cauda epididymis of arsenic‐exposed rats. Arsenic intoxication also enhanced the testicular caspase‐3 mRNA levels, disorganization of testicular and cauda epididymal architecture as well as increased arsenic content in the testis and the cauda epididymis of rats. Arsenic exposure also deteriorated fertility ability in male rats over controls. Conversely, α‐LA negated the testicular and cauda epididymal oxidative stress and restored the male reproductive health in arsenic‐exposed rats.
Photobiomodulation of mesenchymal stem cells encapsulated in an injectable rhBMP4‐loaded hydrogel directs hard tissue bioengineering
Authors: Diniz Ivana M. A. , Carreira Ana C. O. , Sipert Carla R. , Uehara Cindi M. , Moreira Maria S. N. , Freire Laila , Pelissari Cibele , Kossugue Patrícia M. , de Araújo Daniele R. , Sogayar Mari C. , Marques Márcia M.
Published: December 2017

Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy displays relevant properties for tissue healing and regeneration, which may be of interest for the tissue engineering field. Here, we show that PBM is able to improve cell survival and to interact with recombinant human Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 (rhBMP4) to direct and accelerate odonto/osteogenic differentiation of dental derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). MSCs were encapsulated in an injectable and thermo‐responsive cell carrier (Pluronic® F‐127) loaded with rhBMP4 and then photoactivated. PBM improved MSCs self‐renewal and survival upon encapsulation in the Pluronic® F‐127. In the presence of rhBMP4, cell odonto/osteogenic differentiation was premature and markedly improved in the photoactivated MSCs. An in vivo calvarial critical sized defect model demonstrated significant increase in bone formation after PBM treatment. Finally, a balance in the reactive oxygen species levels may be related to the favorable results of PBM and rhBMP4 association. PBM may act in synergism with rhBMP4 and is a promise candidate to direct and accelerate hard tissue bioengineering.
The potential role of aquaporin 1 on aristolochic acid I induced epithelial mesenchymal transition on HK‐2 cells
Authors: Li Ji , Zhang Mincheng , Mao Yong , Li Yimao , Zhang Xiaoxia , Peng Xuehan , Yu Feng
Published: December 2017

Aristolochic acid I (AA‐I), one of the main active components in Aristolochaia herbs, may induce aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN). Renal interstitial fibrosis is one of the most typical features of AAN. To investigate the mechanism of Aristolochic acid I (AA‐I) −induced renal epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and determine the role of aquaporin‐1 (AQP1) in this process, we established an AA‐I‐induced EMT model in human proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK‐2 cells). Morphological examination, MTT assay, and Western blot analysis were performed. Aquaporin 1 (AQP1) and several EMT‐related proteins were detected, thereby suggesting the occurrence of AA‐I‐induced EMT. Two main pathways of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling, namely, Smad‐dependent and Smad‐independent signaling pathways, were also detected. The results showed that the TGF‐β / Smad‐independent signaling pathways (β‐catenin, Ras‐Raf‐Erk1/2 signaling pathways) were activated, and AQP1 expression was decreased during the AA‐I induced EMT on HK‐2 cells. With the presence of TGF‐β1 receptor inhibitor (LY364947) and Erk1/2 inhibitor (PD98059), AQP1 expression was altered by PD98059, suggested that AQP1 could be adjusted by Erk1/2 signaling. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of AA‐I on AQP1 was stronger than that of TGF‐β1, suggested that AQP1 may be an important target on AAN clinical therapy.
Map and correlate intracellular calcium response and matrix deposition in cartilage under physiological oxygen tensions
Authors: Zhou Jin , Yue Danyang , Bai Yuying , Kong Fei , Pan Jun
Published: December 2017

Face to the limited repair capability of cartilage, we intended to find out signaling responsible for its matrix synthesis. Since spontaneous calcium response likes a label of cell status, here it was mapped in fresh and 24 hr cultured in situ chondrocytes under oxygen tensions of 20%, 5%, and 1% as well as mimic hypoxia conditions. The calcium source was traced using ethylene glycol‐bis (β‐aminoethyl ether)‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetraacetic acid (EGTA) and thapsigargin (TG) to treat cartilage. Their relative matrix of type II collagen (COLL‐II) and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) were quantified after cultured for 3 and 7 days. We disclosed the specific fingerprint of calcium response and matrix deposition along the histological zones under various oxygen tensions, from which the effects of hyperoxia, normoxia, and hypoxia conditions on as well as the optimal oxygen tensions for maintenance of various zones of cartilage or chondrocytes were derived and obtained. Our results revealed that cytoplasm calcium was conducive to synthesize COLL‐II but detrimental to synthesize GAG. These results provide correlation in addition to details of intracellular calcium response and matrix deposition in in situ cartilage along its histological zones under physiological oxygen tensions.
Protective effects of carbonyl iron against multiple low‐dose streptozotocin‐induced diabetes in rodents
Authors: Vujicic Milica , Saksida Tamara , Mostarica Stojkovic Marija , Djedovic Neda , Stojanovic Ivana , Stosic‐Grujicic Stanislava
Published: December 2017

Particulate adjuvants have shown increasing promise as effective, safe, and durable agents for the stimulation of immunity, or alternatively, the suppression of autoimmunity. Here we examined the potential of the adjuvant carbonyl iron (CI) for the modulation of organ‐specific autoimmune disease—type 1 diabetes (T1D). T1D was induced by multiple low doses of streptozotocin (MLDS) that initiates beta cell death and triggers immune cell infiltration into the pancreatic islets. The results of this study indicate that the single in vivo application of CI to MLDS‐treated DA rats, CBA/H mice, or C57BL/6 mice successfully counteracted the development of insulitis and hyperglycemia. The protective action was obtained either when CI was applied 7 days before, simultaneously with the first dose of streptozotocin, or 1 day after MLDS treatment. Ex vivo cell analysis of C57BL/6 mice showed that CI treatment reduced the proportion of proinflammatory F4/80+CD40+ M1 macrophages and activated T lymphocytes in the spleen. Moreover, the treatment down‐regulated the number of inflammatory CD4+IFN‐γ+ cells in pancreatic lymph nodes, Peyer's patches, and pancreas‐infiltrating mononuclear cells, while simultaneously potentiating proportion of CD4+IL17+ cells. The regulatory arm of the immune system represented by CD3+NK1.1+ (NKT) and CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T cells was potentiated after CI treatment. In vitro analysis showed that CI down‐regulated CD40 and CD80 expression on dendritic cells thus probably interfering with their antigen‐presenting ability. In conclusion, particulate adjuvant CI seems to suppress the activation of the innate immune response, which further affects the adaptive immune response directed toward pancreatic beta cells.
Pericytes modulate myelination in the central nervous system
Authors: Azevedo Patrick O. , Sena Isadora F.G. , Andreotti Julia P. , Carvalho‐Tavares Juliana , Alves‐Filho José C. , Cunha Thiago M. , Cunha Fernando Q. , Mintz Akiva , Birbrair Alexander
Published: December 2017

Multiple sclerosis is a highly prevalent chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Remyelination is the major therapeutic goal for this disorder. The lack of detailed knowledge about the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in myelination restricts the design of effective treatments. A recent study by using [De La Fuente et al. (2017) Cell Reports, 20(8): 1755‐1764] by using state‐of‐the‐art techniques, including pericyte‐deficient mice in combination with induced demyelination, reveal that pericytes participate in central nervous system regeneration. Strikingly, pericytes presence is essential for oligodendrocyte progenitors differentiation and myelin formation during remyelination in the brain. The emerging knowledge from this research will be important for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.
High cholesterol in lipid rafts reduces the sensitivity to EGFR‐TKI therapy in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chen Qiufang , Pan Zhenzhen , Zhao Min , Wang Qin , Qiao Chen , Miao Liyun , Ding Xuansheng
Published: December 2017

Overcoming EGFR‐TKI resistant which has the initial enthusiasm over substantial clinical responses is a formidable challenge on nowadays. In this study, we showed that cholesterol level in lipid rafts in gefitinib resistant non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines was remarkably higher than gefitinib sensitive cell line, and depletion of cholesterol increased gefitinib sensitivity. Furthermore, cholesterol‐depleted enhanced gefitinib inhibit phosphorylation of EGFR, Akt‐1, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 and these were reversed in cholesterol add‐back experiments. Gefitinib resistant cell lines showed high affinity of gefitinib and EGFR when cholesterol was depleted. Therefore, targeting cholesterol combined with EGFR‐TKI is potentially a novel therapeutic strategy for gefitinib resistant treatment.