bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PEG‐fibrinogen hydrogels for three‐dimensional breast cancer cell culture
Authors: Pradhan Shantanu , Hassani Iman , Seeto Wen J. , Lipke Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2016

Tissue‐engineered three‐dimensional (3D) cancer models employing biomimetic hydrogels as cellular scaffolds provide contextual in vitro recapitulation of the native tumor microenvironment, thereby improving their relevance for use in cancer research. This study reports the use of poly(ethylene glycol)‐fibrinogen (PF) as a suitable biosynthetic hydrogel for the 3D culture of three breast cancer cell lines: MCF7, SK‐BR‐3, and MDA‐MB‐231. Modification of the matrix characteristics of PF hydrogels was achieved by addition of excess poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, which resulted in differences in Young's moduli, degradation behavior, release kinetics, and ultrastructural variations in scaffold microarchitecture. Cancer cells were maintained in 3D culture with high viability within these hydrogels and resulted in cell‐type dependent morphological changes over time. Cell proliferation and 3D morphology within the hydrogels were visualized through immunofluorescence staining. Finally, spatial heterogeneity of colony area within the hydrogels was quantified, with peripheral cells forming colonies of higher area compared to those in the interior regions. Overall, PF‐based hydrogels facilitate 3D culture of breast cancer cells and investigation of cellular behavior in response to varying matrix characteristics. PF‐based cancer models could be potentially used in future investigations of cancer biology and in anti‐cancer drug‐testing applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 236–252, 2017.
Sucrose esters improve the colloidal stability of nanoethosomal suspensions of (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate for enhancing the effectiveness against UVB‐induced skin damage
Authors: Zhang Weihua , Yang Yuanyuan , Lv Tao , Fan Zhaoyang , Xu Yongquan , Yin Junfeng , Liao Bingwu , Ying Hao , Ravichandran Nagaiya , Du Qizhen
Published: September 2016

Nanoethosomal suspensions, composed of phospholipids, ethanol, and water, are novel lipid carriers. These suspensions have been reported to enhance the permeation of drugs into the skin as a result of the interdigitation effect of ethanol on the lipid bilayer of liposomes and by increasing the fluidity of lipids in the stratum corneum. The physical stability of the nanoethosomal suspension is still a critical research problem until now. This study investigated the commercial palm sucrose esters to improve the colloidal stability of nanoethosomal suspensions. The results indicated that palm sucrose esters (PSE) were effective for stabilizing nanoethosomal suspension of (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea. A PSE concentration of 0.15% was optimal for a nanoethosomal suspension which gave mean diameter 75.5 ± 3.5 nm, zeta potential −30.8 ± 3.2 mV and polydispersity index 0.207 ± 0.017. Moreover, the effectiveness of stabilization was influenced by the degree of esterification of the sucrose esters: the sucrose polyesters could prolong the stability of nanoethosomes loaded with EGCG to a year, but the sucrose monoesters only provided less than 6 months of stabilization. EGCG nanoethosomal suspension stabilized by sucrose polyesters shows better inhibition effectiveness against UVB‐induced skin damage than native EGCG. The nanoethosomal suspension has the potential for its utilization as skin care and other products. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 2416–2425, 2017.
Effect of osteoporosis on fixation of osseointegrated implants in rats
Authors: Li Yunfeng , He Sheng , Hua Yunwei , Hu Jing
Published: September 2016

The effect of osteoporosis on implant osseointegration has been widely investigated, whereas osteoporosis may also newly occur in patient with previously osseointegrated implant. This study was designed to investigate the effect of osteoporosis on implant fixation in rats after successful osseointegration had been obtained. Seventy female Sprague‐Dawley rats were included, and each animal received two titanium implants in the distal metaphysis of femur bilaterally. Eight weeks later, ten rats were sacrificed to confirm the establishment of implant osseointegration. All left rats were randomly subjected to bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) or sham operation. Three, six, and twelve weeks later, implant osseointegration, peri‐implant bone tissue, and biomechanical properties of implant were analyzed. Right femurs with implants were used for micro‐CT and histological analysis, and left femurs with implants were used for biomechanical test. Micro‐CT, histology, and biomechanical test confirmed the destructive effect of OVX on previously osseointegrated implant in rats; when compared to sham‐operated rats, peri‐implant bone volume, trabecular architecture, bone‐to‐implant contact ratio, as well as biomechanical parameters decreased progressively within 12 weeks. Results also indicated that the effect of OVX on undisturbed bone (proximal tibiae) was much stronger than that on peri‐implant bone. Osteoporosis produced a progressive negative effect on previously osseointegrated implant in distal femora of rats during 12 weeks. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 2426–2432, 2017.
C/EBP‐β Is Differentially Affected by PPARα Agonists Fenofibric Acid and GW7647, But Does Not Change Apolipoprotein A‐I Production During ER‐Stress and Inflammation
Authors: van der Krieken Sophie E. , Popeijus Herman E. , Konings Maurice , Dullens Stefan P.J. , Mensink Ronald P. , Plat Jogchum
Published: September 2016

Increasing apolipoproteinA‐I (apoA‐I) production may be anti‐atherogenic. Thus, there is a need to identify regulatory factors involved. Transcription of apoA‐I involves peroxisome‐proliferator‐activated‐receptor‐alpha (PPARα) activation, but endoplasmic reticulum (ER) −stress and inflammation also influence apoA‐I production. To unravel why PPARα agonist GW7647 increased apoA‐I production compared to PPARα agonist fenofibric acid (FeAc) in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and colorectal adenocarcinoma (CaCo‐2) cells, gene expression profiles were compared. Microarray analyses suggested CCAAT/enhancer‐binding‐protein‐beta (C/EBP‐β) involvement in the FeAc condition. Therefore, C/EBP‐β silencing and isoform‐specific overexpression experiments were performed under ER‐stressed, inflammatory and non‐inflammatory conditions. mRNA expression of C/EBP‐β, ATF3, NF‐IL3 and GDF15 were upregulated by FeAc compared to GW7647 in both cell lines, while DDIT3 and DDIT4 mRNA were only upregulated in HepG2 cells. This ER‐stress related signature was associated with decreased apoA‐I secretion. After ER‐stress induction by thapsigargin or FeAc addition, intracellular apoA‐I concentrations decreased, while ER‐stress marker expression (CHOP, XBP1s, C/EBP‐β) increased. Cytokine addition increased intracellular C/EBP‐β levels and lowered apoA‐I concentrations. Although a C/EBP binding place is present in the apoA‐I promoter, C/EBP‐β silencing or isoform‐specific overexpression did not affect apoA‐I production in inflammatory, non‐inflammatory and ER‐stressed conditions. Therefore, C/EBP‐β is not a target to influence hepatic apoA‐I production. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 754–763, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A comparison of echocardiographic variables of right ventricular function with exercise capacity after bosentan treatment in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: Results from a multicenter, prospective, cohort study
Authors: Kim Hyungseop , Bae Lee Jin , Park Jae‐Hyeong , Yoo Byung‐Su , Son Jang‐Won , Yang Dong Heon , Lee Bong‐Ryeol
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Bosentan reduces pulmonary arterial pressure and improves exercise capacity in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, there are limited data regarding the extent to which the changes in echocardiographic variables reflect improvements in exercise capacity. We aimed to assess the improvement of echocardiographic variables and exercise capacity after 6 months of bosentan treatment for PAH.

Methods

We performed a prospective study from June 2012 to June 2015 in seven participating medical centers. Echocardiography, including tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and the 6‐minute walk test distance (6MWD), was performed at baseline and after 6 months of bosentan treatment.

Results

We analyzed 19 patients with PAH: seven with congenital shunt, six with collagen vascular disease, and six with idiopathic PAH. After bosentan treatment, mean 6MWD increased by 50 meters. Right ventricle (RV) systolic pressure, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, myocardial performance index (MPI) derived from TDI (MPI‐TDI) of RV and left ventricle (LV), RV fractional area change, and RV ejection fraction were significantly improved. In particular, the magnitude of RV and LV MPI‐TDI showed good correlation with changes in the 6MWD.

Conclusions

The magnitude of RV and LV MPI‐TDI was strongly associated with improvements in exercise capacity. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:28–34, 2017
Diffusion‐weighted MR imaging of upper abdominal organs at different time points: Apparent diffusion coefficient normalization using a reference organ
Authors: Song Ji Soo , Kwak Hyo Sung , Byon Jung Hee , Jin Gong Yong
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To compare the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of upper abdominal organs acquired at different time points, and to investigate the usefulness of normalization.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 58 patients who underwent three rounds of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging including diffusion‐weighted imaging of the upper abdomen. MR examinations were performed using three different 3.0 Tesla (T) and one 1.5T systems, with variable b value combinations and respiratory motion compensation techniques. The ADC values of the upper abdominal organs from three different time points were analyzed, using the ADC values of the paraspinal muscle (ADCpsm) and spleen (ADCspleen) for normalization. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and comparison of dependent ICCs were used for statistical analysis.

Results

The ICCs of the original ADC and ADCpsm showed fair to substantial agreement, while ADCspleen showed substantial to almost perfect agreement. The ICC of ADCspleen of all anatomical regions showed less variability compared with that of the original ADC (P < 0.005).

Conclusion

Normalized ADC using the spleen as a reference organ significantly decreased variability in measurement of the upper abdominal organs in different MR systems at different time points and could be regarded as an imaging biomarker for future multicenter, longitudinal studies.

Level of Evidence: 5

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1494–1501
High mass and spatial resolution mass spectrometry imaging of Nicolas Poussin painting cross section by cluster TOF‐SIMS
Authors: Noun Manale , Van Elslande Elsa , Touboul David , Glanville Helen , Bucklow Spike , Walter Philippe , Brunelle Alain
Published: September 2016

Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) imaging using cluster primary ion beams is used for the identification of the pigments in the painting of Rebecca and Eliezer at the Well by Nicolas Poussin. The combination of the high mass resolution of the technique with a sub‐micrometer spatial resolution offered by a delayed extraction of the secondary ions, together with the possibility to simultaneously identifying both minerals and organics, has proved to be the method of choice for the study of the stratigraphy of a paint cross section. The chemical compositions of small grains are shown with the help of a thorough processing of the data, with images of specific ions, mass spectra extracted from small regions of interest, and profiles drawn along the different painting layers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Therapeutic effects of intranigral transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells in rat models of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Chen Dandan , Fu Wenyu , Zhuang Wenxin , Lv Cui , Li Fengjie , Wang Xin
Published: September 2016

Stem cell transplantation is a promising tool for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease (PD); however, the therapeutic routes and mechanisms of mechanical approaches to stem cell transplantation must be explored. This study tests the therapeutic effect of transplantation of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into the substantia nigra (SN) of the PD rat. 5‐Bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine‐labeled rat MSCs were transplanted into the SN of the 6‐hydroxydopamine‐injected side of PD rat brains. The behavioral changes in PD rats were examined before and 4 and 8 weeks after MSC transplantation. The expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the SN and the striatum and the survival and differentiation of MSCs were assessed by immunohistochemical and double immunofluorescence techniques. Abnormal behavior of PD rats was significantly improved by the administration of bone marrow MSCs, and the number of TH‐positive cells in the SN and the optical density of TH‐positive fibers in the striatum were markedly increased. Transplanted MSCs can survive and migrate in the brain and differentiate into nestin‐, neuron‐specific enolase‐, and GFAP‐positive cells. Our findings suggest that transplantation of rat bone marrow MSCs into the SN of PD rats may provide therapeutic effects. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hindbrain A2 noradrenergic neuron adenosine 5′‐monophosphate‐activated protein kinase activation, upstream kinase/phosphorylase protein expression, and receptivity to hormone and fuel reporters of short‐term food deprivation are regulated by estradiol
Authors: Briski Karen P. , Alenazi Fahaad S.H. , Shakya Manita , Sylvester Paul W.
Published: September 2016

Estradiol (E) mitigates acute and postacute adverse effects of 12 hr‐food deprivation (FD) on energy balance. Hindbrain 5′‐monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) regulates hyperphagic and hypothalamic metabolic neuropeptide and norepinephrine responses to FD in an E‐dependent manner. Energy‐state information from AMPK‐expressing hindbrain A2 noradrenergic neurons shapes neural responses to metabolic imbalance. Here we investigate the hypothesis that FD causes divergent changes in A2 AMPK activity in E‐ vs. oil (O)‐implanted ovariectomized female rats, alongside dissimilar adjustments in circulating metabolic fuel (glucose, free fatty acids [FFA]) and energy deficit‐sensitive hormone (corticosterone, glucagon, leptin) levels. FD decreased blood glucose in oil (O)‐ but not E‐implanted ovariectomized female rats and elevated and reduced glucagon levels in O and E, respectively. FD decreased circulating leptin in O and E, but increased corticosterone and FFA concentrations in E only. Western blot analysis of laser‐microdissected A2 neurons showed that glucocorticoid receptor type II and very‐long‐chain acyl‐CoA synthetase 3 protein profiles were amplified in FD/E vs. FD/O. A2 total AMPK protein was elevated without change in activity in FD/O, whereas FD/E exhibited increased AMPK activation along with decreased upstream phosphatase expression. The catecholamine biosynthetic enzyme dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase (DβH) was increased in FD/O but not FD/E A2 cells. The data show discordance between A2 AMPK activation and glycemic responses to FD; sensor activity was refractory to glucose decrements in FD/O but augmented in FD/E despite stabilized glucose and elevated FFA levels. E‐dependent amplification of AMPK activity may reflect adaptive conversion to fatty acid oxidation and/or glucocorticoid stimulation. FD augmentation of A2 DβH protein profiles in FD/O but not FD/E animals suggests that FD may correspondingly regulate NE synthesis vs. metabolism/release in the absence vs. presence of E. Mechanisms underlying translation of E‐contingent A2 neuron responses to FD into regulatory signaling remain to be determined. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Using the breakage matrix approach for monitoring the break release in the wheat flour milling process
Authors: Bojanić Nemanja , Fišteš Aleksandar , Rakić Dušan , Takači Aleksandar , Došenović Tatjana
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

The breakage matrix approach is a mathematical tool to relate input and output particle size distribution from a milling operation. Adjustment of the break release in the flour milling process is extremely important because it affects granulation and quality characteristics of the stock and hence the total results and balance of the mill. In this study the breakage matrix approach has been used for the purpose of controlling the release on the front passages of the break system in the flour milling process.

RESULTS

It has been established that, for any particle size distribution of wheat, it is possible to predict break releases together with the distribution of the release size fractions by using the breakage matrices. Also, the reversibility of this approach is examined, that is the possibility to identify the wheat particle size distribution that would result in desired break releases and/or the desired yields of different sized intermediate stocks under the given set of milling conditions.

CONCLUSION

It is confirmed that the breakage matrix approach can be successfully used to predict the break releases. The reverse breakage matrix concept allows the determination of the wheat particle size distribution which would result in a targeted break release. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Antioxidant activity and physico‐chemical parameters for the differentiation of honey using a potentiometric electronic tongue
Authors: Juan‐Borrás Marisol , Soto Juan , Gil‐Sánchez Luis , Pascual‐Maté Ana , Escriche Isabel
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

This work evaluates the capacity of a potentiometric electronic tongue to differentiate between types of honey (orange blossom, rosemary, thyme, sunflower, winter savory and honeydew honey) according to their antioxidant level. The classical procedures used to evaluate the antioxidant potential of honey are inappropriate for in situ monitoring on reception of batches of raw honey in the packaging industry. They are also destructive, time‐consuming and very tedious, requiring highly expert analysts and specialised equipment.

RESULTS

The electronic tongue system made with Ag, Ni, Co, Cu and Au was able to not only differentiate between types of honey but also to predict their total antioxidant capacity. The discrimination ability of the system was proved by means of a fuzzy ARTMAP type ANN, with 100% classification success. A prediction multiple linear regression model showed that the best correlation coefficient was for antioxidant activity (0.9666), then for electrical conductivity (0.8959) and to a lesser extent for aw, moisture and colour.

CONCLUSION

The proposed measurement system could be a quick, easy option for the honey packaging sector to provide continuous in‐line information about a characteristic as important as the antioxidant level. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Soy protein isolate as a nanocarrier for enhanced water dispersibility, stability and bioaccessibility of β‐carotene
Authors: Deng Xi‐Xiang , Zhang Ning , Tang Chuan‐He
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

The incorporation of β‐carotene, one of the most common pigments or bioactives, into food formulations has attracted increasing interest from the food industry, due to its good nutrition and potential health effects. However, it is poorly soluble and unstable in water, which greatly limits its applications in foods. This work presented an effective approach to improve the water dispersibility, stability and even bioaccessibility of β‐carotene, using soy protein isolate (SPI) to perform as effective nanocarriers for this molecule.

RESULTS

The complexation with SPI remarkably improved the water dispersibility and stability against heating and freeze‐drying of β‐carotene. However, the encapsulation efficiency and stability of β‐carotene in the nanocomplexes with SPI were closely dependent on the applied β‐carotene‐to‐protein ratio, at which the complexation occurred. The best improvement of stability was observed at appropriate β‐carotene‐to‐protein ratios, e.g. 10–20 g kg−1. The complexation with β‐carotene mainly occurred on the surface of SPI nanoparticles, through hydrophobic interactions. The complexation resulted in inter‐particle aggregation, in a concentration‐dependent manner. Almost all of the β‐carotene molecules in the nanocomplexes could be progressively released into the aqueous phase.

CONCLUSION

SPI exhibits a good potential to perform as a nanocarrier for enhanced water dispersibility, stability and bioaccessibility of β‐carotene. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Consumer product ingestion and aspiration in children: A 15‐year review
Authors: Hanba Curtis , Cox Steven , Bobian Michael , Svider Peter F. , Gonik Nathan J. , Shkoukani Mahdi A. , Sheyn Anthony
Published: September 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Our objectives were to identify consumer product (CP) ingestion and aspiration trends. Our hope is that evaluation of contemporary trends may be useful to physicians and policy makers and further guide preventative measures.

Methods

The Consumer Product Safety Commission's National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was queried for pediatric CP aspiration and ingestion data for the years 2000 to 2014. Data from 2000 to 2004 were compared to 2010 to 2014 data and analyzed for CP and injury occurrence. Injury trends over the past 15 years were identified; patient demographics were analyzed; and patient disposition was reported.

Results

Emergency department visits for pediatric CP ingestion increased 41.4% over the 15‐year period analyzed and remained relatively stable for aspiration events. In all, an estimated 1.1 million visits occurred during this time frame. Jewelry overtook coins as the most common CP aspirated (29.3%). Coins remained the most frequent ingestion but comprised a smaller proportion of ingestions in recent years than years past. From 2010 through 2014, children under 5 years of age accounted for 89.4% and 77.8% of CP aspiration and ingestion cases, respectively.

Conclusion

Pediatric aspiration/ingestion remains a frequent occurrence with potentially significant ramifications. Injury demographics and CPs most likely to be involved may represent valuable information to the otolaryngologist who wishes to provide appropriate counseling to patients and parents and continued investigation on injury prevention.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:1202–1207, 2017
Sediment Yield Deduction from Check–dams Deposition in the Weathered Sandstone Watershed on the North Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Wei Yanhong , He Zhong , Li Yujin , Jiao Juying , Zhao Guangju , Mu Xingmin
Published: September 2016

As the basic unit of erosion and sediment yield, it was critical to determine the amount of soil erosion and sediment yield in the small watersheds for sustaining a reasonable water resource and sediment regulation system. In this study, we determined the sediment yield from the dams‐controlled watershed on the North Loess Plateau. Three check dams in the watershed were investigated by drilling ten‐hole sedimentation cores. The corresponding flood couplets were dated according to thickness of deposition layers, distribution of sediment particle size and historical erosive rainfall events. On the basis of the check dams capacity curve, the soil bulk density and the thickness of couplets, the deposit mass of check dams, and then the sediment yield of watershed at different temporal and spatial scale were deducted. In total of the 33, 60 and 55 couplets were corresponded to individual flood events in the dam MH1# from 1976 to 1984, the dam MH2# from 1985 to 2007, and the dam MH4# from 1981 to 2009, respectively. The specific sediment yield for flood events was 1,188.5–11,527.9 Mg km−2, 1,278.6–17,136.7 Mg km−2, and 3,395.9–33,698.5 Mg km−2, and the annual average sediment yield was 10,728.6 Mg (km2 · a)−1, 12,662.9 Mg (km2 · a)−1, and 16,753.3 Mg (km2 · a)−1 in dam MH1#, MH2# and MH4# controlled watershed, respectively. The sediment yields were inversely proportional to the dams – controlled areas. For the whole watershed, the annual average sediment yield was 14,011.1 Mg (km2 · a)−1 from 1976 to 2009. There were large amounts of sediments (42.3–50.5%) were intercepted gradually along the way from small watersheds to the river channel. And the minimum rainfall for sediment deposited in the dams was greater than 20 mm in this watershed. The results of this study suggested that the sediments retained behind check dams were helpful to quantifying the amount of erosion sediment yield and understanding the soil erosion evolution in the small and ungauged watersheds. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The diamond covering property axiom
Authors: Pawlikowski Janusz
Published: September 2016

The Covering Property Axiom, which attempts to capture some of the combinatorics of the Sacks model, the model obtained from by countable support iteration of length of the Sacks forcing, seems to miss a Suslin tree. We add a diamond polish to the axiom to remedy this.
Multi‐peak standing waves for nonlinear Schrödinger equations involving critical growth
Authors: Zhang Jianjun , do Ó João Marcos , Yang Minbo
Published: September 2016

For the following singularly perturbed problem
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201500074:mana201500074-math-0001we construct a solution which concentrates at several given isolated positive local minimum components of V as . Here, the nonlinearity f is of critical growth. Moreover, the monotonicity of and the so‐called Ambrosetti–Rabinowitz condition are not required.
Limb‐Shaking Syndrome with Light‐Induced Amaurosis Fugax: A Rare Presentation of Near‐Occlusive Carotid Disease
Authors: Wu Abel , Sangha Navdeep
Published: September 2016

View Supplementary Video 1
The Epithelial‐to‐Mesenchymal Transition‐Like Process in Glioblastoma: An Updated Systematic Review and In Silico Investigation
Authors: Iser Isabele C. , Pereira Mariana B. , Lenz Guido , Wink Márcia R.
Published: September 2016

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive form of brain cancer due to its highly invasive nature that impedes the surgical removal of all tumor cells, making relapse inevitable. However, the mechanisms used by glioma cells to invade the surrounding tissue are still unclear. In this context, epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) has emerged as a key regulator of this invasive state and although the real relevance of this program in malignant glioma is still controversial, it has been strongly associated with GBM malignancy. EMT is a very complex process regulated by several families of transcriptional factors through many signaling pathways that form a network that allows cancer cells to acquire invasive properties and penetrate the neighboring stroma, resulting in the formation of an advantageous microenvironment for cancer progression and metastasis. In this systematic review, we focus on the molecular mechanisms of EMT including EMT‐factors, drug resistance, miRNA, and new therapeutic strategies. In addition, we address controversial questions about mesenchymal shift in GBMs with a bioinformatics analysis to show that in terms of epithelial and mesenchymal phenotype, the majority of GBMs samples analyzed have a profile more mesenchymal than epithelial. If induced, this phenotype can be shifted toward an even more mesenchymal phenotype in an EMT‐like process in glioma cells. A better understanding of the molecular regulation of the EMT during tumor spreading will help to provide potential therapeutic interventions to target this program when treating GBM.
The influence of sulfur configuration in 1H NMR chemical shifts of diasteromeric five‐membered cyclic sulfites
Authors: Obregón‐Mendoza Marco A. , Sánchez‐Castellanos Mariano , Cuevas Gabriel , Gnecco Dino , Cassani Julia , Poveda‐Jaramillo Juan C. , Reynolds William F. , Enríquez Raúl G.
Published: September 2016

The effect of the stereochemistry of the sulfur atom on 1H chemical shifts of the diasteromeric pair of cyclic sulfites of 4‐[methoxy(4‐nitrophenyl)methyl]‐5‐phenyl‐1,3,2‐dioxathiolan‐2‐oxide was investigated. The complete 1H and 13C NMR spectral assignment was achieved by the use of one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional NMR techniques in combination with X‐ray data. A correlation of experimental data with theoretical calculations of chemical shift tensors using density functional theory and topological theory of atoms in molecules was made. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A mixed methods approach to improving recruitment and engagement of emerging adults in behavioural weight loss programs
Authors: LaRose J. G. , Guthrie K. M. , Lanoye A. , Tate D. F. , Robichaud E. , Caccavale L. J. , Wing R. R.
Published: September 2016

Objective

Emerging adults ages 18–25 are at high risk for obesity, but are markedly underrepresented in behavioural weight loss (BWL) programs and experience lower engagement and retention relative to older adults.

Purpose

To utilize a mixed methods approach to inform future efforts to effectively recruit and engage this high‐risk population in BWL programs.

Methods

We used a convergent parallel design in which quantitative and qualitative data were given equal priority. Study 1 (N = 137, age = 21.8 + 2.2, BMI = 30.1 + 4.7) was a quantitative survey, conducted online to reduce known barriers and minimize bias. Study 2 (N = 7 groups, age = 22.3 + 2.2, BMI = 31.5 + 4.6) was a qualitative study, consisting of in person focus groups to gain greater depth and identify contextual factors unable to be captured in Study 1.

Results

Weight loss was of interest, but weight itself was not a central motivation; an emphasis on overall lifestyle, self‐improvement and fitness emerged as driving factors. Key barriers were time, motivation and money. Recruitment processes should be primarily online with messages tailored specifically to motivations and preferences of this age group. Preferences for a program were reduced intensity and brief, hybrid format with some in‐person contact, individual level coaching, experiential learning and peer support. Key methods of promoting engagement and retention were autonomy and choice, money and creating an optimal default.

Conclusions

An individually tailored lifestyle intervention that addresses a spectrum of health behaviours, promotes autonomy and emphasizes activity and fitness may facilitate recruitment and engagement in this population better than traditional BWL protocols.
Multiple unusual lung etiologies in a child with acute lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Bechtel Allison , Joyce Michael , Dudek Christopher J. , Sarandria John J. , Shah Chetan , Saad Ali G.
Published: September 2016

Granulomatous lung disease is a rare and perplexing differential in pediatrics. Pulmonary Cryptococcus falls into the differential but is not high on the list, particularly in a non‐AIDS patient. Methotrexate (MTX) is a commonly used agent for chemotherapy in oncology and has been documented to cause lung injury in both patients with rheumatologic and oncologic diseases. Our patient had chronic cough and then developed an opportunistic infection resulting in respiratory failure. Lung biopsy showed two underlying unusual diagnoses: MTX lung injury and cryptococcal pneumonia. His case is presented with particular attention to his prolonged road to diagnosis.
Risk factors for bacteremia and central line–associated blood stream infections in children with acute myelogenous leukemia: A single‐institution report
Authors: Rogers Ashley E. J. , Eisenman Kristen M. , Dolan Susan A. , Belderson Kristin M. , Zauche Jocelyn R. , Tong Suhong , Gralla Jane , Hilden Joanne M. , Wang Michael , Maloney Kelly W. , Dominguez Samuel R.
Published: September 2016

Background

Central line–associated blood stream infections (CLABSIs) are a source of high morbidity and mortality in children with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML).

Procedure

To understand the epidemiology and risk factors associated with the development of CLABSI in children with AML.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with AML over a 5‐year period between 2007 and 2011 at the Children's Hospital Colorado. Cases and controls were classified on the basis of the presence of a CLABSI as defined by the National Healthcare Safety Network.

Results

Of 40 patients in the study, 25 (62.5%) developed at least one CLABSI during therapy. The majority of CLABSIs were due to oral or gastrointestinal organisms (83.0%). Skin organisms accounted for 8.5%. In a multivariable analysis, the strongest risk factors associated with CLABSI were diarrhea (odds ratio [OR] 6.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6–28.7), receipt of blood products in the preceding 4–7 days (OR 10.0, 95%CI 3.2–31.0), not receiving antibiotics (OR 8.3, 95%CI 2.8–25.0), and chemotherapy cycle (OR 3.5, 95%CI 1.4–8.9). CLABSIs led to increased morbidity, with 13 cases (32.5%) versus two controls (1.9%) requiring transfer to the pediatric intensive care unit (P < 0.001). Three (7.5%) of 40 CLABSI events resulted in or contributed to death.

Conclusions

Intensified line care efforts cannot eliminate all CLABSIs in the patients with AML. Exploring the role of mucosal barrier breakdown and/or the use of antibiotic prophylaxis may be effective strategies for further prevention of CLABSIs, supporting ongoing trials in this patient population.
Environmentally Friendly Effluent Treatment Approaches of Dihydroxyl Ammonium 5,5′‐Bistetrazole‐1,1′‐Diolate (TKX‐50)
Authors: Badgujar Dilip , Kulkarni Kiran , Sarwade Desai , Kumar Nitin , Talawar Mahadev
Published: September 2016

The Indian Environmental Protection Act (EPA) came into force in 1986 after Bhopal Gas Tragedy. It stipulates that no person or industry or processor shall discharge or emit environmental pollutants in excess of prescribed standards. Dihydroxyl ammonium 5,5′‐bistetrazole‐1,1′‐diolate, abbreviated as TKX‐50, was synthesized in this laboratory. During synthesis of TKX‐50 a large volume of effluent was generated, which was acidic and hazardous in nature and therefore can damage the environment if discharged without proper treatment. Literature survey reveals that TKX‐50 effluent analysis and its treatment have not been reported so far. In order to meet EPA norms and protect the environment TKX effluent samples of different steps of synthesis were collected and analyzed for environmental parameters such as pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), bio‐chemical oxygen demand (BOD), total dissolved solids (TDS) and bioassay test (toxicity to zebra fish survival) followed by the treatment of composite effluent. This paper presents analysis results of TKX‐50 effluent samples before and after treatment. The results of finally treated TKX‐50 effluent indicate that the same can be safely discharged on land for irrigation without adverse effect on environment. This study may be suitable for environmentalists and community of high energy materials.
Identifying N‐terminal peptides by a combination of the edman procedures with a bromine isotope tag: Application to the silicateins
Authors: Fedorova G. A. , Korneva E. S. , Belikova A. S. , Grachev M. A.
Published: September 2016

Silicateins are proteins found within spicules of siliceous sponges. They are analogs of proteinases cathepsins; they catalyze the transformation of silicic acid esters into biogenic silica (SiO2·nH2O), and are believed to take part in the processes of silicification in marine and freshwater sponges. Earlier studies by Kalyuzhnaya et al. revealed that the Baikal Sponge Lubomirskia baicalensis Pallas, 1773 (L. baicalensis) contains a gene 1988 bp long, which hosts four sequences that encode four mRNAs giving rise to silicateins α1, α2, α3 and α4 (SILα1, SILα2, SILα3, SILα4) whose predicted amino acid sequences are similar to those of the predicted sequences of marine sponge silicateins. However, the sequences of mature silicateins of L. baicalensis remained unknown, since their N‐terminal peptides were not identified. We found the sequences of these N‐terminal peptides using a combination of the Edman procedure, which involved reaction with phenylisothiocyanate, treatment with trifluoroacetic acid and trypsinolysis followed by treatment with 4‐bromine‐phenylisothiocyanate performed directly within polyacrylamide gel bands, and subsequent mass spectrometry. The N‐terminal peptides are YAESIDWR (SILα1), YVDSIDWR (SILα2 and α4), and YADSLDWR (SILα3). All mature silicateins of L. baicalensis had a length 217 amino acid residues.
Characterization of the universal stress protein F from atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli and its prevalence in Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: de Souza Cristiane S. , Torres Alfredo G. , Caravelli Andressa , Silva Anderson , Polatto Juliana M. , Piazza Roxane M. F.
Published: September 2016

Atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (aEPEC) are heterogeneous strains in terms of serotypes, adherence patterns and the presence of novel virulence factors. This heterogeneity is intriguing, promoting studies trying to characterize these novel proteins and to better comprehend this pathotype group. In a previous study analyzing low‐molecular mass proteomes of four representative aEPEC strains of three different adhesion phenotypes, we classified proteins according to their annotated function, with most of them being involved in metabolism and transport; while some of them were classified as hypothetical proteins. The majority of the hypothetical proteins were homologue products of genes identified in the genome of enterohemorrhagic E. coli. One of the hypothetical proteins was annotated as Z2335, with orthologue in EPEC, and by bioinformatics analysis, this protein was revealed to be the universal stress protein F (UspF). Thus, herein we successfully obtained a recombinant UspF protein from aEPEC, which is a α/β, ATP‐binding protein involved in stress response, with comparable protein production among the four studied strains, but showing noteworthy differences when cultivated in different stress conditions, also present in other enterobacterial species, such as Shigella sonnei and Citrobacter freundii. Furthermore, our results confirm that the Usp protein superfamily encompasses a conserved group of proteins involved in stress resistance in aEPEC and other Enterobacteriaceae.
Anomalous longitudinal relaxation of nuclear spins in CaF2
Authors: Kropf Chahan M. , Kohlrautz Jonas , Haase Jürgen , Fine Boris V.
Published: September 2016

We consider the effect of non‐secular resonances for interacting nuclear spins in solids which were predicted theoretically to exist in the presence of strong static and strong radio‐frequency magnetic fields. These resonances imply corrections to the standard secular approximation for the nuclear spin‐spin interaction in solids, which, in turn, should lead to an anomalous longitudinal relaxation in nuclear magnetic resonance experiments. In this article, we investigate the feasibility of the experimental observation of this anomalous longitudinal relaxation in calcium fluoride (CaF2) and conclude that such an observation is realistic.
Refer‐to‐Pharmacy: benefits and early outcomes
Authors: Gray Alistair Howard
Published: September 2016

Refer‐to‐Pharmacy is an electronic tool that facilitates rapid referral of patients from the hospital pharmacy team to community pharmacists. This article discusses the implementation of Refer‐to‐Pharmacy in East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust and the benefits and outcomes seen so far.
Poisson's ratio of BiFeO3 thin films: X‐ray reciprocal space mapping under variable uniaxial strain
Authors: Hu S. , Alsubaie A. , Wang Y. , Lee J. H. , Kang K.‐R. , Yang C.‐H. , Seidel J.
Published: September 2016

We investigate the mechanical properties of BiFeO3 (BFO) thin films grown on SrTiO3 (001) substrates that were manually bent using a specially designed uniaxial bending stage. X‐ray measurements under variable uniaxial strain show that excessive strains up to ∼2% could be applied along the [100] direction with little cross talk between [100] and [010] directions. X‐ray reciprocal space maps were acquired to investigate the evolution of ‐a and c‐axis lattice constants under variable strain and Poisson's ratio of BFO thin films vzx was determined to be 0.30 ± 0.01.
Ritz variational calculation for the singly excited states of compressed two‐electron atoms
Authors: Saha Jayanta K. , Bhattacharyya Sukhamoy , Mukherjee Tapan K.
Published: September 2016

A detailed analysis on the effect of spherical impenetrable confinement on the structural properties of two‐electron ions in
states has been performed. The energy values of 1sns [
] (
) states of helium‐like ions (
) are estimated within the framework of Ritz variational method using explicitly correlated Hylleraas‐type basis sets. The correlated wave functions used here are consistent with the finite boundary conditions due to spherical confinement. A comparative study between the singlet and triplet states originating from a particular electronic configuration shows incidental degeneracy and the subsequent level‐crossing phenomena. The thermodynamic pressure felt by the ion inside the sphere pushes the energy levels toward continuum. Critical pressures for the transition to strong confinement regime (where the singly excited two‐electron energy levels cross the corresponding one‐electron threshold) as well as for the complete destabilization are also estimated.
Astronomical complex organic molecules: Quantum chemistry meets rotational spectroscopy
Authors: Puzzarini Cristina
Published: September 2016

Astrochemistry is an interdisciplinary field involving chemistry, physics, and astronomy, which encompasses astronomical observations, modeling, as well as theoretical and experimental laboratory investigations. In the frame of the latter, this contribution provides an overview on the computational approaches supporting and complementing rotational spectroscopy experiments applied to astrochemical studies. The focus is on the computational strategies that permit accurate computations of structural and rotational parameters as well as of energetics and on their application to case studies, with particular emphasis on the so‐called “astronomical complex” organic molecules.
A fuzzy maximum power point tracking method for photovoltaic systems using a single input current sensor
Authors: Tousi S. M. Reza , Moradi Mohammad Hassan , Bahrami Amin
Published: September 2016

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is one of the major issues in photovoltaic (PV) systems and plays a vital role in optimal utilization of these systems for practical applications. In this paper, we propose a new MPPT method that requires only one current sensor in PV panel side and uses a fuzzy controller to generate proper duty cycle for the DC–DC converter in a PV system. The input current sensor‐based fuzzy MPPT method (ICSF) exhibits proper operation both under steady state and dynamic tests and also performs well in case of severe environmental variations. The proposed method has been simulated in the MATLAB/Simulink workspace and compared with some major MPPT methods. The results reveal that the proposed method behaves well in various conditions. © 2016 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Climate–vegetation–fire interactions and feedbacks: trivial detail or major barrier to projecting the future of the Earth system?
Authors: Harris Rebecca M. B. , Remenyi Tomas A. , Williamson Grant J. , Bindoff Nathaniel L. , Bowman David M. J. S.
Published: September 2016

Fire is a complex process involving interactions and feedbacks between biological, socioeconomic, and physical drivers across multiple spatial and temporal scales. This complexity limits our ability to incorporate fire into Earth system models and project future fire activity under climate change. Conceptual, empirical, and process models have identified the mechanisms and processes driving fire regimes, and provide a useful basis to consider future fire activity. However, these models generally deal with only one component of fire regimes, fire frequency, and do not incorporate feedbacks between fire, vegetation, and climate. They are thus unable to predict the location, severity or timing of fires, the socioecological impacts of fire regime change, or potential non‐linear responses such as biome shifts into alternative stable states. Dynamic modeling experiments may facilitate more thorough investigations of fire–vegetation–climate feedbacks and interactions, but their success will depend on the development of dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs) that more accurately represent biological drivers. This requires improvements in the representation of current vegetation, plant responses to fire, ecological dynamics, and land management to capture the mechanisms behind fire frequency, intensity, and timing. DGVMs with fire modules are promising tools to develop a globally consistent analysis of fire activity, but projecting future fire activity will ultimately require a transdisciplinary synthesis of the biological, atmospheric, and socioeconomic drivers of fire. This is an important goal because fire causes substantial economic disruption and contributes to future climate change through its influence on albedo and the capacity of the biosphere to store carbon. WIREs Clim Change 2016, 7:910–931. doi: 10.1002/wcc.428

This article is categorized under:

Climate Models and Modeling > Model Components

Assessing Impacts of Climate Change > Evaluating Future Impacts of Climate Change

Climate, Ecology, and Conservation > Observed Ecological Changes
Introduction to the collection ‘How We Develop—Developmental Systems and the Emergence of Complex Behaviors’
Authors: Blumberg Mark S. , Spencer John P. , Shenk David
Published: September 2016

This article is categorized under:

Neuroscience > Development