bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular profiling of sepsis in mice using Fourier Transform Infrared Microspectroscopy
Authors: Gautam Rekha , Deobagkar‐Lele Mukta , Majumdar Shamik , Chandrasekar Bhagawat , Victor Emmanuel , Ahmed Syed Moiz , Wadhwa Nitin , Verma Taru , Kumar Srividya , Sundaresan Nagalingam Ravi , Umapathy Siva , Nandi Dipankar
Published: March 2015

Sepsis is a life threatening condition resulting from a high burden of infection. It is a major health care problem and associated with inflammation, organ dysfunction and significant mortality. However, proper understanding and delineating the changes that occur during this complex condition remains a challenge. A comparative study involving intra‐peritoneal injection of BALB/c mice with Salmonella Typhimurium (infection), lipopolysaccharide (endotoxic shock) or thioglycollate (sterile peritonitis) was performed. The changes in organs and sera were profiled using immunological assays and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) micro‐spectroscopy. There is a rapid rise in inflammatory cytokines accompanied with lowering of temperature, respiratory rate and glucose amounts in mice injected with S. Typhimurium or lipopolysaccharide. FTIR identifies distinct changes in liver and sera: decrease in glycogen and protein/lipid ratio and increase in DNA and cholesteryl esters. These changes were distinct from the pattern observed in mice treated with thioglycollate and the differences in the data obtained between the three models are discussed. The combination of FTIR spectroscopy and other biomarkers will be valuable in monitoring molecular changes during sepsis.

Intra‐peritoneal infection with high dose of Salmonella Typhimurium leads to rapid increase in inflammatory cytokines, e.g. Tnfα (A). FTIR analysis of liver (B) and sera (C) identifies several metabolic changes: glycogen, protein/lipid, cholesteryl esters and DNA.

magnified image

Intra‐peritoneal infection with high dose of Salmonella Typhimurium leads to rapid increase in inflammatory cytokines, e.g. Tnfα (A). FTIR analysis of liver (B) and sera (C) identifies several metabolic changes: glycogen, protein/lipid, cholesteryl esters and DNA.
Matrigel coatings for Parylene sheath neural probes
Authors: Lee Curtis D. , Hara Seth A. , Yu Lawrence , Kuo Jonathan T. W. , Kim Brian J. , Hoang Tuan , Pikov Victor , Meng Ellis
Published: March 2015

The biologically derived hydrogel Matrigel (MG) was used to coat a Parylene‐based sheath intracortical electrode to act as a mechanical and biological buffer as well as a matrix for delivering bioactive molecules to modulate the cellular response and improve recording quality. MG was loaded with dexamethasone to reduce the immune response together with nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to maintain neuronal density and encourage neuronal ingrowth toward electrodes within the sheath. Coating the Parylene sheath electrode with the loaded MG significantly improved the signal‐to‐noise ratio for neural events recorded from the motor cortex in rat for more than 3 months. Electron microscopy showed even coverage of both the Parylene substrate and the platinum recording electrodes. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) of coated electrodes in 1× phosphate‐buffered saline demonstrated low impedance required for recording neural signals. This result was confirmed by in vivo EIS data, showing significantly decreased impedance during the first week of recording. Dexamethasone, NGF, and BDNF loaded into MG were released within 1 day in 1× phosphate‐buffered saline. Although previous studies showed that MG loaded with either the immunosuppressant or the neurotrophic factor cocktail provided modest improvement in recording quality in a 1‐month in vivo study, the combination of these bioactive molecules did not improve the signal quality over coating probes with only MG in a 3‐month in vivo study. The MG coating may further improve recording quality by optimizing the in vivo release profile for the bioactive molecules. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 357–368, 2016.
Theoretical comparative studies on transport properties of pentacene, pentathienoacene, and 6,13‐dichloropentacene
Authors: Zhang Xu , Yang Xiaodi , Geng Hua , Nan Guangjun , Sun Xingwen , Xi Jinyang , Xu Xin
Published: March 2015

Pentacene derivative 6,13‐dichloropentacene (DCP) is one of the latest additions to the family of organic semiconductors with a great potential for use in transistors. We carry out a detailed theoretical calculation for DCP, with systematical comparison to pentacene, pentathienoacene (PTA, the thiophene equivalent of pentacene), to gain insights in the theoretical design of organic transport materials. The charge transport parameters and carrier mobilities are investigated from the first‐principles calculations, based on the widely used Marcus electron transfer theory and quantum nuclear tunneling model, coupled with random walk simulation. Molecular structure and the crystal packing type are essential to understand the differences in their transport behaviors. With the effect of molecule modification, significant one‐dimensional π‐stacks are found within the molecular layer in PTA and DCP crystals. The charge transport along the a‐axis plays a dominant role for the carrier mobilities in the DCP crystal due to the strong transfer integrals within the a‐axis. Pentacene shows a relatively large 3D mobility. This is attributed to the relatively uniform electronic couplings, which thus provides more transport pathways. PTA has a much smaller 3D mobility than pentacene and DCP for the obvious increase of the reorganization energy with the introduction of thiophene. It is found that PTA and DCP exhibit lower HOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital) levels and better environmental stability, indicating the potential applications in organic electronics. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TNFα Post‐Translationally Targets ZnT2 to Accumulate Zinc in Lysosomes
Authors: Hennigar Stephen R. , Kelleher Shannon L.
Published: March 2015

Mammary epithelial cells undergo widespread lysosomal‐mediated cell death (LCD) during early mammary gland involution. Recently, we demonstrated that tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNFα), a cytokine released during early involution, redistributes the zinc (Zn) transporter ZnT2 to accumulate Zn in lysosomes and activate LCD and involution. The objective of this study is to determine how TNFα retargets ZnT2 to lysosomes. We tested the hypothesis that TNFα signaling dephosphorylates ZnT2 to uncover a highly conserved dileucine motif (L294L) in the C‐terminus of ZnT2, allowing adaptor protein complex‐3 (AP‐3) to bind and traffic ZnT2 to lysosomes. Confocal micrographs showed that TNFα redistributed wild‐type (WT) ZnT2 from late endosomes (Pearson's coefficient = 0.202 ± 0.05 and 0.097 ± 0.03; P < 0.05) to lysosomes (0.292 ± 0.03 and 0.649 ± 0.03; P < 0.0001), which increased lysosomal Zn (P < 0.0001) and activated LCD (P < 0.0001) compared to untreated cells. Mutation of the dileucine motif (L294V) eliminated the ability of TNFα to redistribute ZnT2 from late endosomes to lysosomes, increase lysosomal Zn, or activate LCD. Moreover, TNFα increased (P < 0.05) AP‐3 binding to wt ZnT2 but not to L294V immunoprecipitates. Finally, using phospho‐ and dephospho‐mimetics of predicted phosphorylation sites (T281, T288, and S296), we found that dephosphorylated S296 was required to target ZnT2 to accumulate Zn in lysosomes and activate LCD. Our findings suggest that women with variation in the C‐terminus of ZnT2 may be at risk for inadequate involution and breast disease due the inability to traffic ZnT2 to lysosomes. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 2345–2350, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiple dose pharmacokinetics of inhaled loxapine in subjects on chronic, stable antipsychotic regimens
Authors: Spyker Daniel A. , Riesenberg Robert A. , Cassella James V.
Published: March 2015

This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group study was to determine the pharmacokinetic characteristics, safety, and tolerability of multiple doses of inhaled loxapine aerosol in subjects on a stable, oral, chronic antipsychotic regimen. Loxapine was delivered by means of a unique thermally generated aerosol comprising drug particles of a size designed for deep lung delivery and absorption. Thirty‐two subjects were randomized 1:1:1:1 to receive inhaled loxapine (total doses of 15, 20, or 30 mg) or inhaled placebo administered in 3 divided doses, given 4 hours apart. Following inhalation, the median Tmax was 2 minutes, and concentrations declined to about half Cmax approximately 5 minutes later across the 3 dose levels. The dose proportionality across data from this study combined with data from the single‐dose study showed a slope (90%CI) of log AUCinf versus log dose of 0.818 (0.762–0.875) across the 8 doses (n = 60 subjects) studied, indicating reasonable dose proportionality. The most common adverse events were cough (3 of 32, 9%), sedation (3 of 32, 9%), and dysgeusia (2 of 32, 6%). The inhalation of multiple doses of inhaled loxapine were well tolerated in study subjects and provided a safe, well‐tolerated means for rapidly and reliably achieving therapeutic plasma concentrations of loxapine. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00555412
Synthesis of Cycloalk[b]indole Bearing Spiropiperidine Derivatives
Authors: Hızlıateş Cevher Gündoğdu , Gülle Sibel , Ergün Yavuz
Published: March 2015

The novel heterocyclic compounds that have cycloalk[b]indole moiety bearing spiropiperidinone and spiropiperidinedione (3a, 3b, 3c, 5a, 5b, 8a, 8b, and 10a) were synthesized for the first time. The synthesis of spiropiperidinone and spiropiperidinedione structures was performed by a new method. These compounds are similar to sedative and hypnotic drugs such as methyprylon, glutethimide, and thalidomide.
Improvements, trends, and new ideas in molecular docking: 2012–2013 in review
Authors: Yuriev Elizabeth , Holien Jessica , Ramsland Paul A.
Published: March 2015

Molecular docking is a computational method for predicting the placement of ligands in the binding sites of their receptor(s). In this review, we discuss the methodological developments that occurred in the docking field in 2012 and 2013, with a particular focus on the more difficult aspects of this computational discipline. The main challenges and therefore focal points for developments in docking, covered in this review, are receptor flexibility, solvation, scoring, and virtual screening. We specifically deal with such aspects of molecular docking and its applications as selection criteria for constructing receptor ensembles, target dependence of scoring functions, integration of higher‐level theory into scoring, implicit and explicit handling of solvation in the binding process, and comparison and evaluation of docking and scoring methods. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Insulin treatment restores glutamate (α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid) receptor function in the hippocampus of diabetic rats
Authors: Viswaprakash Nilmini , Vaithianathan Thirumalini , Viswaprakash Ajitan , Judd Robert , Parameshwaran Kodeeswaran , Suppiramaniam Vishnu
Published: March 2015

Type 1 diabetes is associated with cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive processing, particularly memory acquisition, depends on the regulated enhancement of expression and function of glutamate receptor subtypes in the hippocampus. Impairment of memory was been detected in rodent models of type 1 diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ). This study examines the functional properties of synaptic α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors and the expression of synaptic molecules that regulate glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the hippocampus of STZ‐diabetic rats. The AMPA receptor‐mediated miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) and single‐channel properties of synaptosomal AMPA receptors were examined after 4 weeks of diabetes induction. Results show that amplitude and frequency of mEPSCs recorded from CA1 pyramidal neurons were decreased in diabetic rats. In addition, the single‐channel properties of synaptic AMPA receptors from diabetic rat hippocampi were different from those of controls. These impairments in synaptic currents gated by AMPA receptors were accompanied by decreased protein levels of AMPA receptor subunit GluR1, the presynaptic protein synaptophysin, and the postsynaptic anchor protein postsynaptic density protein 95 in the hippocampus of diabetic rats. Neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), an extracellular matrix molecule abundantly expressed in the brain, and the polysialic acid (PSA) attached to NCAM were also downregulated in the hippocampus of diabetic rats. Insulin treatment, when initiated at the onset of diabetes induction, reduced these effects. These findings suggest that STZ‐induced diabetes may result in functional deteriorations in glutamatergic synapses in the hippocampus of rats and that these effects may be reduced by insulin treatment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of career customization on work outcomes: Boundary conditions of manager support and employee age
Authors: Bal P. Matthijs , van Kleef Marco , Jansen Paul G. W.
Published: March 2015

The current paper investigated the longitudinal effects of mass career customization (MCC) on job attitudes and objective career outcomes of employees in a professional service firm in the Netherlands. On the basis of theory on individualization of career trajectories, it was expected that the possibility for employees to customize their careers would be positively related to their job attitudes and subsequent objective career success, as indicated by their levels of affective commitment, work engagement, and received salary and bonuses. However, these effects were expected to occur primarily under the combination of high manager support for implementation of career customization and, on the basis of lifespan theory, older workers, as customization fulfills their increased heterogeneous career preferences. A three‐wave longitudinal study largely showed support for the study hypotheses; the relation between MCC use and work engagement and subsequent career success was stronger for older workers who received support for MCC, whereas the relation between MCC use and commitment was negative for older workers who received low support. The study shows the benefits of career customization in organizations by showing the conditions under which these benefits will manifest. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shamals and climate variability in the Northern Arabian/Persian Gulf from 1973 to 2012
Authors: Al Senafi Fahad , Anis Ayal
Published: March 2015

This paper presents key results from analysis of surface meteorological observations collected in the Northern Arabian/Persian Gulf (N Gulf; Kuwait, Bahrain, and NE Saudi Arabia), which spans a 40‐years period (1973–2012). The first part of this study analyzes climate variability in the N Gulf, and relates them to teleconnection patterns (North Atlantic Oscillation, El Nino Southern Oscillation, and Indian Ocean Dipole). Results of the analysis indicate that during the study period the climate in the region experienced a general trend of increase in temperature (0.8°C), decrease in barometric pressure (1 mbar), reduction in humidity (6%), and decrease in visibility (9%). Significant correlations were found between the three teleconnection patterns and the meteorological conditions suggesting that seasonal variabilities in air temperature, barometric pressure, and precipitation are closely related to the teleconnection patterns. The second part of this study examines the 40‐year variability of Shamal events (strong NW winds that commonly generate significant dust storms). The data suggests that on average Shamal events occur at a rate of 10 events year–1 with 85% of the events occurring during the summer and winter. The number of these events has increased in the past 14 years of the study period. These events resulted in abrupt changes in meteorological conditions: an increase in wind speed of 2.7 m s–1, a decrease in visibility of 1.7 km, and reduction in humidity of 4.3%. Seasonal variations in temperature (an increase in temperature during summer of 0.8°C, and a decrease of 1.5°C during winter) and barometric pressure (a decrease in barometric pressure during summer of 0.6 mbar and an increase of 7.8 mbar during winter) were observed during Shamal events.
Cerebrospinal fluid Aβ42 levels and APP processing pathway genes in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Bekris Lynn M. , Tsuang Debby W. , Peskind Elaine R. , Yu Chang E. , Montine Thomas J. , Zhang Jing , Zabetian Cyrus P. , Leverenz James B.
Published: March 2015

Background

Of recent interest is the finding that certain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers traditionally linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD), specifically amyloid beta protein (Aβ), are abnormal in PD CSF. The aim of this exploratory investigation was to determine whether genetic variation within the amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing pathway genes correlates with CSF Aβ42 levels in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

Parkinson's disease (n = 86) and control (n = 161) DNA were genotyped for 19 regulatory region tagging single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within nine genes (APP, ADAM10, BACE1, BACE2, PSEN1, PSEN2, PEN2, NCSTN, and APH1B) involved in the cleavage of APP. The SNP genotypes were tested for their association with CSF biomarkers and PD risk while adjusting for age, sex, and APOE ɛ4 status.

Results

Significant correlation with CSF Aβ42 levels in PD was observed for two SNPs, (APP rs466448 and APH1B rs2068143). Conversely, significant correlation with CSF Aβ42 levels in controls was observed for three SNPs (APP rs214484, rs2040273, and PSEN1 rs362344).

Conclusions

In addition, results of this exploratory investigation suggest that an APP SNP and an APH1B SNP are marginally associated with PD CSF Aβ42 levels in APOE ɛ4 noncarriers. Further hypotheses generated include that decreased CSF Aβ42 levels are in part driven by genetic variation in APP processing genes. Additional investigation into the relationship between these findings and clinical characteristics of PD, including cognitive impairment, compared with other neurodegenerative diseases, such as AD, are warranted. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A g‐factor metric for k‐t SENSE and k‐t PCA based parallel imaging
Authors: Binter Christian , Ramb Rebecca , Jung Bernd , Kozerke Sebastian
Published: March 2015

Purpose

To propose and validate a g‐factor formalism for k‐t SENSE, k‐t PCA and related k‐t methods for assessing SNR and temporal fidelity.

Methods

An analytical gxf‐factor formulation in the spatiotemporal frequency domain is derived, enabling assessment of noise and depiction fidelity in both the spatial and frequency domain. Using pseudoreplica analysis of cardiac cine data the gxf‐factor description is validated and example data are used to analyze the performance of k‐t methods for various parameter settings.

Results

Analytical gxf‐factor maps were found to agree well with pseudoreplica analysis for 3x, 5x, and 7x k‐t SENSE and k‐t PCA. While k‐t SENSE resulted in lower average gxf values (gxavg) in static regions when compared with k‐t PCA, k‐t PCA yielded lower gxavg values in dynamic regions. Temporal transfer was better preserved with k‐t PCA for increasing undersampling factors.

Conclusion

The proposed gxf‐factor and temporal transfer formalism allows assessing noise performance and temporal depiction fidelity of k‐t methods including k‐t SENSE and k‐t PCA. The framework enables quantitative comparison of different k‐t methods relative to frame‐by‐frame parallel imaging reconstruction. Magn Reson Med 75:562–571, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
31P RINEPT MRSI and VBM reveal alterations in brain aging associated with major depression
Authors: Biedermann Sarah V. , Weber‐Fahr Wolfgang , Demirakca Traute , Tunc‐Skarka Nuran , Hoerst Mareen , Henn Fritz , Sartorius Alexander , Ende Gabriele
Published: March 2015

Purpose

Phosphomono‐ and diesters, the major components of the choline peak in 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy, are associated with membrane anabolic and catabolic mechanisms. With the refocused insensitive nuclei‐enhanced polarization transfer technique, these phospholipids are edited and enhanced in the 31P MR spectrum. In depressed patients, alterations of the choline peak and cerebral volume have been found, indicating a possible relation. Thus, combining MR phosphorous spectroscopy and volumetry in depressed patients seems to be a promising approach to detect underlying pathomechanisms.

Methods

Depressed in‐patients were either treated with antidepressive medication or with electroconvulsive therapy and compared to matched healthy controls. 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging was conducted before and after the treatment phases. A 3D MRI dataset for volumetry was acquired in a dedicated 1H head coil.

Results

Phosphocholine and phosphoethanolamine were increased in depressed patients. Though patients responded to the treatments, phospholipids were not significantly altered. An increased age‐related gray matter loss in fronto‐limbic regions along with an altered relation of phosphomonoesters/phosphodiesters with age were found in depressed patients.

Discussion

The findings of increased phosphomonoesthers and an age*group interaction for gray matter volumes need further research to define the role of phospholipids in major depression and possible associations to gray matter loss. Magn Reson Med 73:1390–1400, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Whole‐body muscle magnetic resonance imaging in SEPN1‐related myopathy shows a homogeneous and recognizable pattern
Authors: Hankiewicz Karolina , Carlier Robert Y. , Lazaro Leila , Linzoain Javier , Barnerias Christine , Gómez‐Andrés David , Avila‐Smirnow Daniela , Ferreiro Ana , Estournet Brigitte , Guicheney Pascale , Germain Dominique P. , Richard Pascale , Bulacio Sebastian , Mompoint Dominique , Quijano‐Roy Susana
Published: March 2015

Introduction: The aim of this study was to delineate the spectrum of muscle involvement in patients with a myopathy due to mutations in SEPN1 (SEPN1‐RM). Methods: Whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging (WBMRI) was used in 9 patients using T1‐weighted turbo spin–echo (T1‐TSE) sequences and short tau inversion recovery (STIR) in 5 patients. Results: Analysis of signal and volume abnormalities by T1‐TSE sequences in 109 muscles showed a homogeneous pattern characterized by a recognizable combination of atrophy and signal abnormalities in selected muscles of the neck, trunk, pelvic girdle, and lower limbs. Severe wasting of sternocleidomastoid muscle and atrophy of semimembranosus were detected. Selective paraspinal, gluteus maximus, and thigh muscle involvement was also observed. The lower leg was less constantly affected. Conclusions: WBMRI scoring of altered signal and atrophy in muscle can be represented by heatmaps and is associated with a homogeneous, recognizable pattern in SEPN1‐RM, distinct from other genetic muscle diseases. Muscle Nerve 52: 728–735, 2015
A hybrid optimization model for proficient bidding strategies with no Karush–Kuhn–Tucker optimality conditions
Authors: Yadav Naresh Kumar
Published: March 2015

The computational complexity behind the bi‐level optimization problem has led the researchers to adopt Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) optimality conditions. However, the problem function has more number of complex constraints to be satisfied. Classical optimization algorithms are impotent to handle the function. This paper presents a simplified minimization function, in which both the profit maximization problem and the ISO market clearance problem are considered, but with no KKT optimality conditions. Subsequently, this paper solves the minimization function using a hybrid optimization algorithm. The hybrid optimization algorithm is developed by combining the operations of group search optimizer (GSO) and genetic algorithm (GA). The hybridization enables the dispersion process of GSO to be a new mutated dispersion process for improving the convergence rate. We evaluate the methodology by experimenting on IEEE 14 and IEEE 30 bus systems. The obtained results are compared with the outcomes of bidding strategies that are based on GSO, PSO, and GA. The results demonstrate that the hybrid optimization algorithm solves the minimization function better than PSO, GA, and GSO. Hence, the profit maximization in the proposed methodology is relatively better than that of the conventional algorithms. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
iDEM: An impulse‐based discrete element method for fast granular dynamics
Authors: Lee Seung Jae , Hashash Youssef M.A.
Published: March 2015

Since the inception of discrete element method (DEM) over 30 years ago, significant algorithmic developments have been made to enhance the performance of DEM while emphasizing simulation fidelity. Nevertheless, DEM is still a computationally expensive numerical method for simulation of granular materials. In this study, a new impulse‐based DEM (iDEM) approach is introduced that uses collision impulse instead of contact force and directly handles velocity while bypassing integration of acceleration. Contact force required for engineering applications is retrieved with reasonable fidelity via an original proposed formulation. The method is robust, numerically stable and results in significant speed up of almost two orders of magnitude over conventional DEM. The proposed iDEM allows for the simulation of large number of particles within reasonable run times on readily accessible computer hardware. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Association of HIV Stigma and HIV/STD Knowledge With Sexual Risk Behaviors Among Adolescent and Adult Men Who Have Sex With Men in Ghana, West Africa
Authors: Nelson LaRon E. , Wilton Leo , Agyarko‐Poku Thomas , Zhang Nanhua , Aluoch Marilyn , Thach Chia T. , Owiredu Hanson Samuel , Adu‐Sarkodie Yaw
Published: March 2015

Ghanaian men who have sex with men (MSM) have a high HIV seroprevalence, but despite a critical need to address this public health concern, research evidence has been extremely limited on influences on sexual risk behavior among MSM in Ghana. To investigate associations between HIV/STD knowledge, HIV stigma, and sexual behaviors in a sample of MSM in Ghana, we conducted a secondary data analysis of cross‐sectional survey data from a non‐probability sample of Ghanaian MSM (N = 137). Nearly all the men (93%) had more than one current sex partner (M = 5.11, SD = 7.4). Of those reported partners, the average number of current female sexual partners was 1.1 (SD = 2.6). Overall, knowledge levels about HIV and STDs were low, and HIV stigma was high. There was no age‐related difference in HIV stigma. Younger MSM (≤25 years) used condoms less often for anal and vaginal sex than did those over 25. Relative frequency of condom use for oral sex was lower in younger men who had higher STD knowledge and also was lower in older men who reported high HIV stigma. Knowledge and stigma were not associated with condom use for anal or vaginal sex in either age group. These descriptive data highlight the need for the development of intervention programs that address HIV/STD prevention knowledge gaps and reduce HIV stigma in Ghanaian communities. Intervention research in Ghana should address age‐group‐specific HIV prevention needs of MSM youth. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dental Modifications in a Skeletal Sample of Enslaved Africans Found at Lagos (Portugal)
Authors: Wasterlain S. N. , Neves M. J. , Ferreira M. T.
Published: March 2015

An archaeological intervention in Valle da Gafaria (Lagos, Portugal) allowed the excavation of a deposit of waste dating from the 15th to 17th centuries. Among discarded objects, an important amount of human skeletal remains was exhumed (N = 158 individuals). The archaeological and historical context, as well as the morphometric analysis of the skulls, led us to attribute them an African origin. While historical sources document the trade of slaves by the Portuguese since the 15th century, so far no slave cemetery was excavated in Portugal. The study of their lives and deaths has been accomplished by historical documents. Therefore, this sample provides a unique opportunity to learn more about captive individuals who were brought to Portugal in the modern period. The present work focuses in the intentional dental modifications presented by several of these individuals. A total of 113 subjects have teeth that can be evaluated for the presence of intentional modifications. Of these, 55.8% individuals present dental modifications on their anterior dentition, 42.9% exhibiting modifications on both upper and lower teeth. The incisors were the most frequently modified teeth, followed by the canines. Both men and women as adults and sub‐adults have dental intentional modifications. In most individuals, dental modifications involved the removal of the mesial and distal angles, which is comparable with sub‐Saharan African practices. However, we cannot infer a more specific origin for these slaves only based on dental modification's type and pattern because several ethnic groups modify teeth in the same way. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Did Children in Medieval and Post‐medieval Poland Suffer from Scurvy? Examination of the Skeletal Evidence
Authors: Krenz‐Niedbała M.
Published: March 2015

Late‐medieval and post‐medieval writings report that scurvy was a widespread condition in medieval and early historical Poland. Archaeological and historical data indicate that the diet of children was based on foods poor in vitamin C and contained small amounts of raw plant products. Also, historians emphasise that in medieval and post‐medieval Poland, there were seasonal fluctuations in food availability, frequently accompanied by poor harvests. Both resulted in long periods of poor nutrition, which affected children most severely. The aim of this study was to investigate skeletal manifestations of scurvy in subadult remains from medieval and post‐medieval Poland. Following standards described by Ortner and colleagues, anatomical sites pathognomonic of scurvy in subadults (<17 years) were assessed for abnormal porosity and hypertrophic bone among skeletons excavated from three sites: Ostrów Lednicki (dated to the 11th–14th centuries AD), Cedynia (10th–14th centuries AD) and Słaboszewo (14th–17th centuries AD). In total, 3.6% of all examined children were found to bear traces of vitamin C deficiency. The prevalence of scorbutic lesions was 4.5% for Cedynia, 2.6% for Ostrów Lednicki and 3.6% for Słaboszewo. The majority of affected children were less than 7 years of age. Scurvy was likely more widespread in the living populations than it appears from the calculation of skeletal markers, because some individuals might have recovered or died before obvious traces became apparent. Also, in some children, scurvy might not have reached an advanced stage, identifiable in the skeletal material. The prevalence of scurvy reflects not only dietary patterns but also food storage and preparation techniques adopted in the Polish territories during the Middle Ages, which contributed to low intakes of vitamin C. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
m‐Xylylene bismaleimide: a versatile building block for high‐performance thermosets
Authors: Evsyukov Sergey E. , Pohlmann Tim , Stenzenberger Horst D.
Published: March 2015

m‐Xylylene bismaleimide, Compimide MXBI (hereafter MXBI), was developed as a building block for formulating bismaleimide resins with improved processability. MXBI on its own, or in combination with 4,4′‐bismaleimidodiphenylmethane (Compimide MDAB, hereafter MDAB) and with 2,2′‐diallylbisphenol‐A as a co‐monomer, provides very low‐melting resin blends, which can be processed at temperatures around 60–80°C via RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding), VARIM (Vacuum Assisted Resin Infusion Moulding), prepregging, and wet filament winding (FW). Uncured and cured resin properties were evaluated. The mechanical property spectrum of the MXBI/MDAB/diallylbisphenol‐A system with varying MXBI/MDAB ratio shows almost equivalent contributions of MXBI and MDAB to the mechanical properties of a system. Higher MXBI proportions are responsible for lower resin viscosities and hence superior processability. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fabrication and performance of microencapsulated phase change materials with hybrid shell by in situ polymerization in Pickering emulsion
Authors: Yin Dezhong , Liu Hao , Ma Li , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: March 2015

Microencapsulated phase change materials (MePCMs) using melamine–formaldehyde resin/SiO2 as shell were investigated in this paper. Organically modified SiO2 particles were employed to stabilize Pickering emulsion, and in situ polymerization of melamine and formaldehyde was carried out to form hybrid shell. The performances of resultant MePCMs with hybrid shell were investigated comparatively with the MePCMs with polymer shell. SiO2 particles raise the microencapsulation efficiency by improving the stability of emulsion and providing a precipitation site for melamine–formaldehyde resin. Also, the mechanical strength, thermal reliability, and anti‐osmosis performance of MePCMs were improved significantly by SiO2 particles in the shell. Our study shows that Pickering emulsion is a simple and robust template for MePCMs with polymer‐inorganic hybrid shell. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Initial testing (stage 1) of the tubulin binding agent nanoparticle albumin‐bound (nab) paclitaxel (Abraxane®) by the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program (PPTP)
Authors: Houghton Peter J. , Kurmasheva Raushan T. , Kolb E. Anders , Gorlick Richard , Maris John M. , Wu Jianrong , Tong Zeen , Arnold Michael A. , Chatterjee Moumita , Williams Terence M. , Smith Malcolm A.
Published: March 2015

Background

Nanoparticle albumin‐bound paclitaxel (nab‐paclitaxel, Abraxane®) is FDA approved for the treatment of several adult cancers. Antimitotic agents are essential components for curative therapy of pediatric solid tumors, although taxanes have shown limited activity. Because of the novel formulation, nab‐paclitaxel was evaluated against a limited series of Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program (PPTP) solid tumors.

Procedures

Nab‐paclitaxel was tested against a limited subset of PPTP solid tumor xenograft models at a dose of 50 mg/kg using a q4d × 3 schedule intravenously.

Results

Nab‐paclitaxel was well tolerated in vivo, producing maximum weight loss of approximately 10% with recovery to baseline weight in the week following the third dose. All 20 xenograft models tested were considered evaluable for efficacy. Nab‐paclitaxel induced statistically significant differences in event‐free survival (EFS) distribution compared to control in 19 of 20 (95%) of the solid tumors. Objective responses were observed in 12 of 20 (60%) solid tumor xenografts. Complete responses (CR) or maintained CR were observed in 5 of 8 Ewing sarcoma models and 6 of 8 rhabdomyosarcomas. There were no objective regressions in either neuroblastoma (n = 2) or osteosarcoma (n = 2) xenograft panels. At the dose tested, systemic exposures of nab‐paclitaxel in mice were somewhat greater than those tolerated in humans.

Conclusions

The high level of activity observed against the rhabdomyosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma PPTP preclinical models makes nab‐paclitaxel an interesting agent to consider for pediatric evaluation. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:1214–1221. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tumor‐targeted and immune‐targeted monoclonal antibodies: Going from passive to active immunotherapy
Authors: Marabelle Aurélien , Gray Juliet
Published: March 2015

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have inaugurated the concepts of tumor‐targeted therapy and personalized medicine. A new family of mAbs is currently emerging in the clinic, which target immune cells rather than cancer cells. These immune‐targeted therapies have recently demonstrated long‐term tumor responses in adults with refractory/relapsing metastatic solid tumors. Pediatric cancers are different from their adult counterparts in terms of histological features and immune infiltrates. However, the same immune checkpoint targets can be expressed within the microenvironment of pediatric tumors. The benefits of immune checkpoint blockade in pediatric cancers are currently under evaluation in early phase clinical trials. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:1317–1325. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Numerical analysis with experimental data of the joint of fuselage with main landing gear and wing‐strut, of a two‐seat aircraft built with composites
Authors: Vargas Erik , Camarena Diego , Morales Alberto , Hernández Hilario , Martínez Carlos
Published: March 2015

An analysis of the strut‐to‐fuselage and main‐landing‐gear‐to‐fuselage joint is realized in order to evaluate the zones with a high probability of failure. The whole section is analyzed using the finite element method in order to estimate static resistance behavior, therefore it becomes necessary to create a numerical model of the section, to measure the mechanical properties of the C‐Ep composite material, and to calculate the loads applied onto the section. The section is digitized with photogrammetry. Mechanical characterization is achieved with instrumented standardized tensile tests. Results of the analysis show that the zones with higher probability of failure are found around the wing strut and the fuselage joint, with a safety factor higher than necessary even for the most critical condition, and lower in comparison with the average safety factor used on aircrafts built mostly with metals. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:1072–1083, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Rapid Identification of Steroidal Saponins in Trillium Tschonoskii Maxim by Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Electrospray Ionisation Quadrupole Time‐of‐Flight Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Gao Xin , Sun Wenjun , Fu Qiang , Niu Xiaofeng
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Steroidal saponins in Trillium tschonoskii Maxim have many biological activities, including immunological regulation and anti‐tumour. Comprehensive ingredient identification is critical for understanding its pharmacological mechanism and establishing quality control protocols. However, it is a challenging problem because of the complexity of steroidal saponins.

Objectives

To develop a UPLC–MS method for identifying and characterising steroidal saponins in the root and rhizome of T. tschonoskii.

Methods

Methanolic extracts of T. tschonoskii were analysed by using ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionisation quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–ESI/QTOF/MS). The UPLC experiments were performed by means of a reversed‐phase C18‐column and a binary mobile phase system consisting of water and acetonitrile with formic acid under gradient elution conditions. For the UPLC–MS measurements, positive and negative ion modes were used in order to obtain better tandem mass spectra and high‐resolution mass spectra.

Results

Based on retention times, accurate mass and mass spectrometric fragmentation, a total of 31 saponins distributed over eight steroidal aglycone skeletons were identified or tentatively elucidated from T. tschonoskii.

Conclusion

The UPLC–ESI/QTOF/MS method has proven to be a powerful tool for rapid identification of steroidal saponins in T. tschonoskii without tedious and time‐consuming isolation of pure constituents. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE BULLYING DYNAMIC: PREVALENCE OF INVOLVEMENT AMONG A LARGE‐SCALE SAMPLE OF MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH WITH AND WITHOUT DISABILITIES
Authors: Rose Chad A. , Simpson Cynthia G. , Moss Aaron
Published: March 2015

Bullying has been the topic of much debate and empirical investigations over the past decade. Contemporary literature contends that students with disabilities may be overrepresented within the bullying dynamic as both perpetrators and victims. Unfortunately, prevalence rates associated with the representation of students with disabilities is limited due to measurement, disability status identification, and definition issues. The present study attempted to address these issues by assessing the prevalence rates of specific subgroups of students with disabilities in a large‐scale cross‐sectional study with 13,325 students without disabilities and 1,183 students with disabilities in Grades 6 through 12. Results suggest that overall, students with disabilities reported proportionally higher rates of bullying, fighting, relational aggression, victimization, online victimization, and relational victimization than did their peers without disabilities. These findings suggest that schools must begin to establish targeted interventions to support skill development based on characteristics associated with specific disability identification.
Comparative In Vitro Study of Different Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jets Concerning their Antimicrobial Potential and Cellular Reaction
Authors: Duske Kathrin , Wegner Katharina , Donnert Monique , Kunert Ulrike , Podbielski Andreas , Kreikemeyer Bernd , Gerling Torsten , Weltmann Klaus‐Dieter , Nebe Barbara , Bader Rainer
Published: March 2015

Atmospheric pressure plasma‐jets could be an alternative method to remove bacterial biofilms on orthopaedic implants. Furthermore, plasma‐exposure might support the proliferation of osteoblasts after cleaning implants by activating the implant surface. In this comparative in vitro study, the efficacy of five different plasma sources concerning removal of bacterial biofilms and influence on human osteoblast cell attachment was tested. Two plasma sources revealed a significant reduction of bacterial viability (>90%) and enhanced spreading of osteoblastic cells. Promising results and potential for local plasma‐jet application dealing with implant‐related infections caused by bacterial biofilms was demonstrated.
Assessing Permafrost Degradation and Land Cover Changes (1986–2009) using Remote Sensing Data over Umiujaq, Sub‐Arctic Québec
Authors: Beck Inga , Ludwig Ralf , Bernier Monique , Lévesque Esther , Boike Julia
Published: March 2015

Recent land cover changes in the Umiujaq region of northern Québec, Canada, have been quantified in order to estimate changes in the extent of discontinuous permafrost that strongly affect the forest‐tundra ecotone. Changes in the areas covered by different vegetation types, thermokarst lakes and degradation of lithalsas have been investigated over an area of 60 km2, extending from widespread discontinuous permafrost in the north to areas of scattered permafrost in the south, and from Hudson Bay in the west to the Lac Guillaume‐Delisle graben 10 km further east. We used high‐resolution remote sensing images (QuickBird 2004, GeoEye 2009) and four Landsat scenes (1986, 1990, 2001, 2008) as well as ground‐based data (vegetation, active layer thickness, snow parameters) collected between 2009 and 2011. Two change detection methods applied to estimate the land cover changes between 1986 and 2009 showed an overall increase in vegetation extent between 1986 and 2009, and a 21 per cent increase in tall vegetation (spruce and tall shrubs) between 2004 and 2009 at the expense of low vegetation (lichens, prostrate shrubs, herbaceous vegetation). Thermokarst lakes and lithalsas in ten sub‐areas were mapped manually from satellite imagery. The area covered by water decreased by 24 per cent between 2004 and 2009, often due to vegetation colonising the margins of lakes, and 93 of the observed lakes disappeared completely over that period. The area covered by lithalsas declined by 6 per cent. Our results demonstrate the viability of using high‐resolution satellite imagery to detect changes in the land surface that can serve as indicators of permafrost degradation in the sub‐Arctic. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of sputtering power on surface characteristics and crystal quality of AlN films deposited by pulsed DC reactive sputtering
Authors: Takeuchi Hiroto , Ohtsuka Makoto , Fukuyama Hiroyuki
Published: March 2015

Aluminum nitride (AlN) is a promising material for use as a substrate for AlGaN‐based ultraviolet LEDs and piezoelectric devices. Among the sputtering methods, pulsed DC sputtering provides a superior growth rate and dense AlN films because of the promotion of two‐dimensional growth. In this study, the effect of sputtering power on surface characteristics, crystal quality, and residual stress of AlN films deposited by pulsed DC reactive sputtering on a nitrided sapphire substrate was investigated. The homoepitaxial growth of AlN films on this substrate gives high crystal quality compared with the use of other substrates such as sapphire or Si for heteroepitaxial growth. Surface damage on the AlN films increased with an increase in sputtering power, leading to a rough surface. At all sputtering powers, c‐axis oriented AlN films were obtained in this study. From the difference in lattice constant compared with the AlN bulk, the inplane compressive stress of the AlN sputtered films was confirmed as residual stress. Residual stress in the AlN films was mostly caused by a peening effect rather than a thermal expansion coefficient difference.
Cover Picture: Electron‐transfer transparency of graphene: Fast reduction of metal ions on graphene‐covered donor surfaces (Phys. Status Solidi RRL 3/2015)
Authors: Jeong Du Won , Park Serin , Choi Won Jin , Bae Giyeol , Chung Yun Jang , Yang Cheol‐Soo , Lee Young Kuk , Kim Ju‐Jin , Park Noejung , Lee Jeong‐O.
Published: March 2015

No abstract is available for this article.
Back Cover: Integration of individual TiO2 nanotube on the chip: Nanodevice for hydrogen sensing (Phys. Status Solidi RRL 3/2015)
Authors: Enachi Mihail , Lupan Oleg , Braniste Tudor , Sarua Andrei , Chow Lee , Mishra Yogendra K. , Gedamu Dawit , Adelung Rainer , Tiginyanu Ion
Published: March 2015

No abstract is available for this article.
Effects of Glucosinolates from Turnip (Brassica rapa L.) Root on Bone Formation by Human Osteoblast‐Like MG‐63 Cells and in Normal Young Rats
Authors: Jeong Jaehoon , Park Heajin , Hyun Hanbit , Kim Jihye , Kim Haesung , Oh Hyun Il , Hwang Hye Seong , Kim Dae Kyong , Kim Ha Hyung
Published: March 2015

Turnip (Brassica rapa L.) root ethanol extract (TRE) was prepared, and its chemical constituents were characterized by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Thirteen glucosinolates (GSLs) were identified, comprising eight aliphatic, four indolic, and one aromatic compounds. The effects of these GSLs on bone formation were investigated in vitro by incubating human osteoblast‐like MG‐63 cells with TRE and then analyzing their viability, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, collagen content, and mineralization and in vivo by administering TRE orally to normal young rats (500 mg/kg/day) and assessing subsequent changes in serum osteocalcin and bone microstructure in these animals. No TRE‐related toxicity was found, and the levels of cell viability, ALP activity, collagen synthesis, and mineralization were significantly increased relative to the negative control. In particular, stimulatory effects on the differentiation of MG‐63 cells were strongly enhanced as compared with a positive control (daidzein). Serum osteocalcin was also significantly increased, and some important bone microstructural parameters were improved in TRE‐administered rats compared with their saline‐administered counterparts. GSLs therefore appear to have a stimulatory effect on bone formation in both MG‐63 cells and normal young rats. This is the first report on the usefulness of turnip root and its GSL compounds for bone formation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.