bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dexmedetomidine protects hepatic cells against oxygen‐glucose deprivation/reperfusion injury via lncRNA CCAT1
Authors: Zhou Zhuang , Chen Qingsong , Wan Lei , Zheng Daofeng , Li Zhongtang , Wu Zhongjun
Published: May 2018

Dexmedetomidine (Dex) protects different cell types during hypoxia or ischemia‐reperfusion injury by inhibiting cell apoptosis. However, the underlying mechanism and its impact on hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury are still not known. In this study, we established a model of oxygen‐glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) injury in hepatocyte HL7702 cells, and studied the impact of Dex on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle during OGD/R. In addition, we explored the role of CCAT1 in this process. We found that Dex increased cell proliferation and inhibited cell apoptosis during OGD/R, in a concentration‐dependent manner. Dex partially reversed the OGD‐inhibited expression of lncRNA CCAT1. Knockdown of CCAT1 by siRNA inhibited Dex‐mediated protection against OGD/R‐induced injury and promoted cell apoptosis, caspase‐3 expression and cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase, and inhibited cell proliferation and cyclin D1 expression. In contrast, overexpression of CCAT1 by pcDNA3.0‐CCAT1 enhanced Dex‐mediated protection against OGD/R‐induced cell injury. Thus, Dex protects hepatocytes against OGD/R injury by upregulating lncRNA CCAT1. This study suggests a novel role of CCAT1 in ischemia reperfusion injury, and lays the framework for future studies.
Intelligent Metal Carbonyl Metal–Organic Framework Nanocomplex for Fluorescent Traceable H2O2‐Triggered CO Delivery
Authors: Jin Zhaokui , Zhao Penghe , Zhang Junheng , Yang Tian , Zhou Gaoxin , Zhang Daohong , Wang Tianfu , He Qianjun
Published: May 2018

The recognized therapeutic benefits from carbon monoxide (CO) have caused booming attention to develop a CO therapy for various major diseases, such as cancer. However, the controlled release of CO gas and the monitoring of the CO release are vitally important to the on‐demand CO administration for a safe and efficient therapy, but greatly challenging. In this work, a new CO‐releasing nanocomplex was constructed by the adsorption and coordination of manganese carbonyl ([MnBr(CO)5], abbreviated as MnCO) with a Ti‐based metal–organic framework (Ti‐MOF) to realize an intratumoral H2O2‐triggered CO release and real‐time CO release monitoring by fluorescence imaging. A high CO prodrug loading capacity (0.532 g MnCO per gram Ti‐MOF) is achieved due to the high surface area of Ti‐MOF, and the intracellular H2O2‐triggered CO release from the MnCO@Ti‐MOF is realized to enable the nanocomplex selectively release CO in tumor cells and kill tumor cells rather than normal cells. Particularly significant is that the real‐time fluorescence imaging monitoring of the CO release is realized based on an annihilation effect of the fluorescence after MnCO loading into Ti‐MOF and an activation effect of the fluorescence after CO release from Ti‐MOF. The quantitative relationship between the fluorescence intensity and the released CO amount is established in great favor of guiding on‐demand CO administration. The results demonstrate the advantage of versatile MOFs for high efficient CO delivery and monitoring, which is critical for the improvement of the effectiveness of future therapeutic application.
Opioids: The Painful Public Health Reality
Authors: Tyndale Rachel F. , Sellers Edward M.
Published: May 2018

The analgesic, sedative, antidepressant, euphoriant, intoxicating, and addictive properties of opium and its synthetic derivatives are well known and have been known for centuries. Hence, the current major public health problems due to excessive availability should be no surprise. What is unprecedented in the United States, and emerging elsewhere, is the extent of the profound consequences and complexity of addressing this public health crisis.
The Nature of the Long‐Lived Excited State in a NiII Phthalocyanine Complex Investigated by X‐Ray Transient Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Hong Jiyun , Kelley Matthew S. , Shelby Megan L. , Hayes Dugan K. , Hadt Ryan G. , Rimmerman Dolev , Zhang Xiaoyi , Chen Lin X.
Published: May 2018

The nature of the photoexcited state of octabutoxy nickel(II) phthalocyanine (NiPcOBu8) with a 500 ps lifetime was investigated by X‐ray transient absorption (XTA) spectroscopy. Previous optical, vibrational, and computational studies have suggested that this photoexcited state has a ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer (LMCT) nature. By using XTA, which provides unambiguous information on the local electronic and nuclear configuration around the Ni center, the nature of the excited state of NiPcOBu8 was reassessed. Using X‐ray probe pulses from a synchrotron source, the ground‐ and excited‐state X‐ray absorption spectra of NiPcOBu8 were measured. Based on the results, we identified that the excited state exhibits spectral features that are characteristic of a Ni1, 3(3d
,3d
) state rather than a LMCT state with a transiently reduced Ni center. This state resembles the (d,d) state of nickel(II) tetramesitylphorphyrin. The XTA features are rationalized based on the inherent cavity sizes of the macrocycles. These results may provide useful guidance for the design of photocatalysts in the future.
A process for new program development
Authors: Crowley Timothy R.
Published: May 2018

One common challenge for many nonprofit institutions is developing new programs in a timely manner. Focus, program launch time, and insufficient project management are usually the constraining factors in this complex process. This article proposes a solution to these constraining factors that attempts to borrow from the corporate world to integrate a solution into contemporary institutions that incorporate shared governance and traditional college/departmental hierarchical structures.
What rights do puppy raisers have on campus?
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: May 2018

Conduct an internet search for “puppy raiser” and you'll discover a growing number of organizations that purport to train service dogs but that first outsource their puppies to volunteers who agree to feed and care for them while housebreaking and socializing them, and then to return them to be trained as service dogs. When students agree to raise and care for the puppies, what rights, if any, do they have to bring the puppies into campus facilities or campus housing? Must schools open their campuses to puppy raisers, or are they free to welcome them or exclude them as they see fit?
Help faculty members to accurately define access
Authors: Gaddy Stephanie
Published: May 2018

Promoting equal access for college students with disabilities can be challenging for faculty members. Although most faculty will accommodate students with disabilities without any difficulties, others seem to struggle. Helping faculty to understand the differences between access and success can help.
Mycorrhiza in tree diversity–ecosystem function relationships: conceptual framework and experimental implementation
Authors: Ferlian Olga , Cesarz Simone , Craven Dylan , Hines Jes , Barry Kathryn E. , Bruelheide Helge , Buscot François , Haider Sylvia , Heklau Heike , Herrmann Sylvie , Kühn Paul , Pruschitzki Ulrich , Schädler Martin , Wagg Cameron , Weigelt Alexandra , Wubet Tesfaye , Eisenhauer Nico
Published: May 2018

The widely observed positive relationship between plant diversity and ecosystem functioning is thought to be substantially driven by complementary resource use of plant species. Recent work suggests that biotic interactions among plants and between plants and soil organisms drive key aspects of resource use complementarity. Here, we provide a conceptual framework for integrating positive biotic interactions across guilds of organisms, more specifically between plants and mycorrhizal types, to explain resource use complementarity in plants and its consequences for plant competition. Our overarching hypothesis is that ecosystem functioning increases when more plant species associate with functionally dissimilar mycorrhizal fungi because differing mycorrhizal types will increase coverage of habitat space for and reduce competition among plants. We introduce a recently established field experiment (MyDiv) that uses different pools of tree species that associate with either arbuscular or ectomycorrhizal fungi to create orthogonal experimental gradients in tree species richness and mycorrhizal associations and present initial results. Finally, we discuss options for future mechanistic studies on resource use complementarity within MyDiv. We show how mycorrhizal types and biotic interactions in MyDiv can be used in the future to test novel questions regarding the mechanisms underlying biodiversity–ecosystem function relationships.
Predator effects link ecological communities: kelp created by sea otters provides an unexpected subsidy to bald eagles
Authors: Rechsteiner Erin U. , Wickham Sara B. , Watson Jane C.
Published: May 2018

Ecological communities are best studied at the landscape level, where linkages among communities are considered. Such linkages are often driven by increases in primary production caused by apex predators limiting herbivores. In this note, we describe a novel linkage among sea otters (Enhydra lutris), the long‐lived woody kelp (Pterygophora californica), and bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). While counting sea otters in an isolated group of rocky islets on the Central Coast of British Columbia, we found an eagle nest composed of mostly Pterygophora stalks. Pterygophora recruits rapidly after sea otters arrive in an area and limit sea urchins; the subsequent pulsed Pterygophora recruitment results in narrow age‐class cohorts that senesce en masse after about 20 yr. When the woody stipes wash ashore, they degrade slowly and persist as beach wrack for years. These windrows of woody kelp are common on the BC coast where sea otters have re‐established. We demonstrate how this subsidy can be used by bald eagles, and predict that as sea otters recover across their range in BC, further effects of Pterygophora to intertidal, supralittoral, and terrestrial communities will be observed.
Manage difficult discussions related to admissions, financial aid
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2018

ORLANDO — Many enrollment professionals are drawn to their work because they enjoy helping students get started in higher education, graduate, and move on to careers. But sometimes admissions and financial aid professionals must have difficult conversations with students and parents.
Build a more diverse, likely‐to‐succeed class through intentionality
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2018

The University of Oregon boasts a student body that is more diverse than the overall population of the state of Oregon, a fact of which Roger Thompson, vice president for student services and enrollment management at U of O, and a member of the Enrollment Management Report Advisory Board, is very proud. When Thompson joined the institution, the population of underrepresented domestic minority students accounted for only 17 percent of the student body.
RTEthernet: Real‐time communication for manufacturing cyberphysical systems
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc‐Tu , Leu Ming C. , Liu Xiaoqing Frank
Published: May 2018

Cloud manufacturing yields insights of manufacturing services over cyberspace based on the integration of advanced manufacturing with cloud computing. However, the different communication standards between the different system levels are the main challenge for the integration without conflicting communication. Ethernet appears to be the best solution to support all levels for industrial manufacturing systems. Since the synchronous integration is fulfilled, the prerequisite for deciding the overall performance of systems is adaptable real‐time communication. This motivates us to study the problem of designing a new real‐time communication based on Ethernet standards to enable real‐time processing for factory networks, termed real‐time Ethernet (RTEthernet). In this paper, we introduce new architectures for master and controller stations. The objective is to have the maximum number of machines transmitting data in a data transmission window (coordinated cycle). The problem is called the maximum number of real‐time data transmission (MNRDT) problem. The MNRDT is shown to be NP‐hard. An approximation and three relevant solutions are proposed for addressing the reduction of MNRDT and the MNRDT problem. Simulation results are provided to show the performance of proposed solutions.
Influence of fine ceramic aggregates on the residual properties of concrete subjected to elevated temperature
Authors: Rajawat Deepak , Siddique Salman , Shrivastava Sandeep , Chaudhary Sandeep , Gupta Trilok
Published: May 2018

The residual properties of concrete subjected to elevated temperature are of importance to assess the stability of the structure. This paper investigates the performance of concrete containing white ware ceramic sand exposed to elevated temperature. Concrete mixes containing 0%, 50%, and 100% ceramic sand were prepared. The specimen were exposed to elevated temperatures of 200°C, 500°C, and 800°C for a duration of 60 minutes. Their residual mechanical properties (compressive strength, split tensile strength), ultra sonic pulse velocity, and mass change for different cooling regimes were investigated and compared among specimen. The results showed that incorporation of ceramic sand in concrete mixes improved the resistance against elevated temperature of hardened concrete.
CapX2020 Provides Blueprint for Multistate Project Success
Authors: Monti Marta , Rose Stephen
Published: May 2018

Building new electrical transmission lines is difficult.
Analyzing Renewables in a Utility Energy Mix
Authors: Nersesian Roy L.
Published: May 2018

Renewables are a real challenge for utility operators, particularly solar and wind power. Renewables such as biomass, geothermal, and hydro are as controllable as fossil fuel plants. Hydro has its challenges if rainfall in the reservoir's watershed can't keep the reservoir full—but within reservoir depth restraints, output is controllable.
DIET AND CANCER OF THE STOMACH: A CASE‐CONTROL STUDY IN GREECE
Authors: TRICHOPOULOS D. , OURANOS G. , DAY N.E. , TZONOU Anastasia , MANOUSOS O. , PAPADIMITRIOU Ch. , TRICHOPOULOS Antonia
Published: May 2018

A case‐control study focusing on the role of diet in the etiology of gastric cancer was undertaken in Piraeus, the sister city of Athens, in a population characterized by ethnic homogeneity but substantial heterogeneity with respect to dietary habits. The case series consisted of 110 consecutive patients with histologically confirmed adenocarcinoma of the stomach, admitted to two teaching hospitals during a 3‐year period; the control series consisted of orthopedic patients admitted to a nearby hospital for accidents, fractures and other orthopedic disorders, during the same time period. Dietary histories concerning the frequency of consumption (per month or per week) of about 80 food items were obtained by the same interviewer. Cases reported significantly less frequent consumption of lemons, oranges, brown bread, and raw, salad‐type vegetables (particularly lettuce, onions and cucumbers) and, independently, significantly more frequent consumption of pasta, beans and nuts. A relative risk of about 40 was found between extreme quintiles when the above 9 food Items were combined in a linear risk score. Use of an index constructed from the study material will clearly overestimate the level of risk between the extreme quintiles, but nevertheless the risk differences appear noteworthy, and consistent with the international variation in the incidence of gastric cancer. No significant associations were found with alcoholic beverages, coffee or tea.
HEAT‐RESISTANT MUTANTS OF B‐16 MELANOMA CELLS. I. STEPWISE HEATING IN VITRO INDUCES PROGRESSIVE INCREASE IN RESISTANCE TO HEAT
Authors: TAO Tien-wen
Published: May 2018

Cloned lines from 4 different families of B‐16 melanoma cells were heated repeatedly in tissue culture at 45°C with step‐up time intervals. These lines included the Partially heat‐resistant lines previously selected at 43°C(HR43°) from wheat‐germ‐agglutinin‐resistant mutant (WGAR, HR43°.), concanavalin‐resistant mutant (conR‐HR43°), ricin‐resistant mutant (ricinR, HR43°), and parental B‐16 (B‐16, HR43°.) cells. The heating cycles Were repeated 7 to II times at 45°C increasing from 45 min to 150 min with 3 weeks of culturing at 37°C between cycles. Heat resistance in most cases increased progressively with each heating step. An extensive library of mutants was thus generated, varying in the degree of heat resistance and the apparent stability. HR variants from the WGAR family appeared to be the most resistant and the most stable. The heat‐resistant phenotype was expressed not only by increased survival after a normally lethal heat dose, but also by protection against heat‐mediated suppression of proteins and DNA syntheses. Protein synthesis in the heat‐resistant cells was not only less suppressed by heat shock, but also recovered more rapidly after removal of shock. Clinical implications of these results and the potential usefulness of the mutant lines for genetic studies are discussed.
Selective and mild fractionation of microalgal proteins and pigments using aqueous two‐phase systems
Authors: Suarez Ruiz Catalina A , Emmery Daniel P , Wijffels Rene H , Eppink Michel HM , van den Berg Corjan
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Microalgal biomass is generally used to produce a single product instead of valorizing all of the cellular components. The biomass production and downstream processes are too expensive if only one product is valorized. A new approach was proposed for the simultaneous and selective partitioning of pigments and proteins from disrupted Neochloris oleoabundans cultivated under saline and freshwater conditions.

RESULTS

An aqueous two‐phase system composed of polyethylene glycol and cholinium dihydrogen phosphate selectively separated microalgal pigments from microalgal proteins. 97.3 ± 1.0% of lutein and 51.6 ± 2.3% of chlorophyll were recovered in the polymer‐rich phase. Simultaneously, up to 92.2 ± 2.0% of proteins were recovered in a third phase (interface) in between the aqueous phases (interface). The recovered proteins, including Rubisco with a molecular weight of ∼560 kDa, seem to be intact and pigments did not suffer degradation, demonstrating the mildness of this system for fractionating microalgal biomolecules.

CONCLUSION

The ability of aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPSs) to simultaneously and efficiently fractionate different biomolecules in a mild manner from disrupted microalgae is demonstrated. This is an important step towards the development of a multiproduct microalgae biorefinery. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Ascitic fluid regulates the local innate immune response of patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Nieto Juan C , Perea Lídia , Soriano Germán , Zamora Carlos , Cantó Elisabet , Medina Aina , Poca Maria , Sanchez Elisabet , Roman Eva , Julià Germà , Navarro Ferran , Gely Cristina , Alvarado Edilmar A , Guarner Carlos , Juarez Cándido , Vidal Sílvia
Published: May 2018

Ascitic neutrophils from cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) exhibit an impaired oxidative burst that could facilitate bacterial infection. However, the influence of the cell-free ascitic fluid of these patients on neutrophil function has not been investigated. To analyze this influence, we determined the ascitic levels of cytokines, resistin, and lactoferrin and their association with neutrophil function, disease severity score, and SBP resolution. We analyzed NETosis induction by microscopy and oxidative burst by the flow cytometry of healthy neutrophils cultured in ascitic fluid from cirrhotic patients with sterile ascites (SA) and with SBP before and after antibiotic treatment. Resistin, IL-6, IL-1 receptor antagonist, IL-1β, and lactoferrin levels were measured in ascitic fluids and supernatants of cultured neutrophils and PBMCs by ELISA. Upon stimulation, healthy neutrophils cultured in SBP ascitic fluid produced lower NETosis and oxidative burst than those cultured in SA. Ascitic resistin levels were negatively correlated with NETosis, oxidative burst, and ascitic glucose levels; and positively correlated with the model for end-stage liver disease score. After an E. coli or TNF-α stimulus, neutrophils were the major resistin producers. Resistin indirectly reduced the oxidative burst of neutrophils and directly reduced the inflammatory phenotype of monocytes and TNF-α production. Bacterial-induced resistin production can down-regulate the inflammatory response of macrophages and neutrophil function in ascitic fluid. Consequently, this down-regulation may jeopardize the elimination of bacteria that translocate to ascitic fluid in patients with cirrhosis.

Downregulation of the immune response of ascitic cells from cirrhotic patients can be induced by the content of ascitic fluid.
IT adoption in social care: A study of the factors that mediate technology adoption
Authors: Mohammed Abid , R. T. White Gareth , Wang Xiaojun , Kai Chan Hing
Published: May 2018

Organizations within the social care sector are faced with demanding changes driven by the government’s agenda to modernize and an ageing population, requiring high quality and personalized services that are efficiency and cost‐effective, facilitated by complex organizational technology. Efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of social care provision need to be mindful of the peculiarities of the sector, in particular, the poor level of information technology (IT) skills and abilities. Job specifications will require revision as technology is increasingly integrated with care workers’ current roles and responsibilities. Social care organizations that are able to develop and implement effective IT strategies may well be able to leverage a significant competitive advantage.
Oxalic acid preharvest treatment increases antioxidant systems and improves plum quality at harvest and during postharvest storage
Authors: Martínez‐Esplá Alejandra , Serrano María , Martínez‐Romero Domingo , Valero Daniel , Zapata Pedro J
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Plums are much appreciated by consumers as fresh fruit but have a limited storage life. Since reactive oxygen species (ROS) are associated with fruit ripening, an increase in ROS scavenging antioxidant systems could lead to a delay in postharvest plum ripening and in maintaining fruit quality after long cold storage.

RESULTS

Results showed that crop yield (kg per tree) and fruit weight were enhanced by preharvest oxalic acid (OA) treatment of plum cultivars (‘Black Splendor’ and ‘Royal Rosa’), although the on‐tree ripening process was delayed. In addition, the ripening process during cold storage was delayed in plums from OA‐treated tress, manifested by lower firmness and acidity losses and reduced ethylene production, as compared with fruits from control trees. Antioxidant compounds (phenolics, anthocyanins and carotenoids) and the activity of antioxidant enzymes were higher in plums from OA‐treated trees than in controls, at harvest and during 50 days of cold storage.

CONCLUSION

OA preharvest treatment could be a useful tool to maintain plum quality properties during long‐term storage, by delaying the postharvest ripening process through a delay in ethylene production, with an additional effect on increasing bioactive compounds with health beneficial effects. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparison of quantitative NMR and IRMS for the authentication of ‘Polish Vodka’
Authors: Ciepielowski Grzegorz , Pacholczyk‐Sienicka Barbara , Frączek Tomasz , Klajman Kamila , Paneth Piotr , Albrecht Łukasz
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

The production of 'Polish Vodka' is restricted by law to the ethyl alcohol of agricultural origins obtained from rye, wheat, barley, oat, triticale and potatoes grown on the territory of the Republic of Poland. The current labeling system should guarantee that the spirit is authentic and of good quality but not all producers are honest. Unfortunately, authentic 'Polish Vodka' is the most often counterfeited by the addition of cheaper and more accessible maize spirits. These illegal practices significantly reduce costs of the spirit production. Therefore, determination of the botanical origin of alcohol in Poland is highly relevant.

RESULTS

Quantitative 2H nuclear magnetic resonance and isotope ratio mass spectrometry were used to investigate the authenticity of 30 samples of Polish spirits. Several isotopic parameters were used to determine the botanical origin of 10 unknown samples. Both approaches led to the same conclusions regarding the percentage of maize‐derived ethanol addition.

CONCLUSIONS

Applied techniques are a valuable tool in the fight against counterfeiting of products. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Automated Manufacturing of Sensor‐Monitored Parts
Authors: Binder Maximilian , Illgner Matthias , Anstaett Christine , Kindermann Philipp , Kirchbichler Ludwig , Seidel Christian
Published: May 2018

Laser beam melting (LBM) is a powder bed‐based additive manufacturing technique, where metal powders are layerwise and selectively molten into complex geometries. LBM is state of the art in several industries, such as aerospace or medical for the production of metal parts. The automated integration of sensors and actuators during LBM exhibits great potential for manufacturing of function‐integrated metal parts. However, this potential has hardly been exploited until today. This contribution introduces a handling system allowing for automated manufacturing of sensor‐monitored parts by means of LBM. Furthermore, an outlook is given on the potential of sensor integration in multi‐material metal parts using the example of an injection molding part.
Matching the Intensity of the Laser to the Speed
Authors: Knauer Doris
Published: May 2018

The performance of precision, multi‐axis positioning solutions for laser processing depends both on the mechanics and the drive type selected, and also its automation controller. For example, to achieve consistent path quality during laser cutting, the intensity of the laser and the speed of the moving components must be precisely matched to each other in order to cut as consistently as possible and in the shortest possible time. In conjunction with high‐performance controllers and intelligent algorithms, precision positioning systems now fulfill the requirements that enable laser processing to achieve high accuracy and at the same time, high throughput.
Low level laser therapy for the management of breast cancer‐related lymphedema: A randomized controlled feasibility study
Authors: Baxter George David , Liu Lizhou , Tumilty Steve , Petrich Simone , Chapple Cathy , Anders Juanita J. ,   On Behalf of the Laser Lymphedema Trial Team
Published: May 2018

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the feasibility of conducting a full scale randomized controlled trial investigating the effectiveness of low level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, used in addition to conventional therapy, for managing breast cancer related lymphedema (BCRL).

Materials and Methods

Patients with BCRL were recruited from the Southern District Health Board (New Zealand) via lymphedema therapists’ referrals, and randomly allocated into either the laser group, which received BCRL conventional therapy (e.g., wearing compression garments, massage therapy, and/or exercise) plus a 6‐week LLLT (PBM) intervention program (wavelength: 980/810 nm (80:20 ratio); output power: 500 mW beam spot size: 5 cm2; irradiance: 100 mW/cm2; treatment time per area: 1 minute dosage per area treated: 30J (6J/cm2); 10 points of treatment from axilla to wrist total LLLT (PBM) treatment time: 10 minutes total dosage delivered: 300 J), or the control group, which received BCRL conventional therapy alone. Feasibility was determined by recruitment and randomization rates, retention of participants and treatment protocol adherence, and was assessed during the recruiting and intervention periods. Data on participant satisfaction and adverse reactions of LLLT (PBM) were collected on completion of this study. Clinical outcomes (i.e., limb circumference, participant's perceived symptoms, psychological impacts, and activity disability) were assessed at baseline, and 6 and 12 weeks post‐randomization.

Results

Over a 6‐month recruitment window, 17 participants with BCRL were recruited in the study, and randomized into the two groups (recruitment rate of 81%, and randomization rate of 100%). Treatment adherence was high in the laser group (88.9% of participants completed all treatments). Retention rates were 88.9% for the laser group and 100% for the control group at both 6 and 12 weeks post‐randomization. All participants who completed LLLT (PBM) treatment indicated that they were satisfied with the treatment. No serious adverse reactions were reported in this study. Clinical outcomes failed to show additional benefits of LLLT (PBM) intervention.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that it is feasible to conduct a fully powered RCT to definitively test the effectiveness of the additional use of LLLT (PBM) in the management of BCRL. For such a trial, 114 participants will be needed at baseline. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:924–932, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Employee Participation Programs
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: May 2018

Many organizations believe it is not in their best interest to foster traditional hierarchical or adversarial relationships with their employees, whether those employees are organized or not. They view employee engagement as critical to increasing organizational effectiveness, attracting and retaining the talent the organization needs to compete and maintaining an effective union‐avoidance program. Direct employee input and participation increase employee engagement.
Spatial, Temporal, and Biological Characteristics of a Nearshore Coral Reef Fishery in the Northern Mariana Islands
Authors: Trianni Michael S. , Gourley John E. , Ramon Manny S.
Published: May 2018

Fishery landings of coral reef fish from a nearshore commercial spear fishery from 2011 to 2014 were analyzed and summarized. Results showed that the fishery comprised two effort components—shore and boat based fishing—with shore based fishing dominating fishery effort. These two components yielded differing fishery characteristics, including landings, CPUE, seasonality, fishing locations, and targeted species. Time series of select species’ sizes (family Acanthuridae and subfamily Scarinae) showed relatively consistent trends over the sampling period, with the sizes of most harvested species exceeding the life history milestones of length at maturity and length at sex change. Sizes of harvested species were influenced by fishing effort type. Brief comparisons with prior spear fishery analyses focusing on the Northern Mariana Islands indicated that effectively evaluating the nighttime commercial coral reef spear fishery requires an understanding of fishery dynamics and implementation of a long term monitoring program.
Comparative Performance of Three Length Based Mortality Estimators
Authors: Huynh Quang C. , Beckensteiner Jennifer , Carleton Liese M. , Marcek Benjamin J. , Nepal KC Vaskar , Peterson Cassidy D. , Wood Megan A. , Hoenig John M.
Published: May 2018

Length based methods provide alternatives for estimating the instantaneous total mortality rate (Z) in exploited marine populations when data are not available for age based methods. We compared the performance of three equilibrium length based methods: the length converted catch curve (LCCC), the Beverton–Holt equation (BHE), and the length based spawning potential ratio (LB SPR) method. The LCCC and BHE are two historically common procedures that use length as a proxy for age. From a truncated length frequency distribution of fully selected animals, the LCCC estimates Z with a regression of the logarithm of catch at length by the midpoint of the length bins, while the BHE estimates Z as a function of the mean length. The LB SPR method is a likelihood based population dynamics model, which—unlike the LCCC and BHE—does not require data truncation. Using Monte Carlo simulations across a range of scenarios with varying mortality and life history characteristics, our study showed that neither the LCCC nor the BHE was uniformly superior in terms of bias or root mean square error across simulations, but these estimators performed better than LB SPR, which had the largest bias in most cases. Generally, if the ratio of natural mortality (M) to the von Bertalanffy growth rate parameter (K) is low, then the BHE is most preferred, although there is likely to be high bias and low precision. If M/K is high, then the LCCC and BHE performed better and similarly to each other. Differences in performance among commonly used truncation methods for the LCCC and BHE were small. The LB SPR method did not perform as well as the classical methods but may still be of interest because it provides estimates of a logistic selectivity curve. The M/K ratio provided the most contrast in the performance of the three methods, suggesting that it should be considered for predicting the likely performance of length based mortality estimators.
Lactobacillus fermentum Improves Tacrolimus‐Induced Hypertension by Restoring Vascular Redox State and Improving eNOS Coupling
Authors: Toral Marta , Romero Miguel , Rodríguez‐Nogales Alba , Jiménez Rosario , Robles‐Vera Iñaki , Algieri Francesca , Chueca‐Porcuna Natalia , Sánchez Manuel , de la Visitación Néstor , Olivares Mónica , García Federico , Pérez‐Vizcaíno Francisco , Gálvez Julio , Duarte Juan
Published: May 2018

Scope

The aim is to analyze whether the probiotic Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 (LC40) can prevent endothelial dysfunction and hypertension induced by tacrolimus in mice.

Methods and results

Tacrolimus increases systolic blood pressure (SBP) and impairs endothelium‐dependent relaxation to acetylcholine and these effects are partially prevented by LC40. Endothelial dysfunction induced by tacrolimus is related to both increased nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX2) and uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)‐driven superoxide production and Rho‐kinase‐mediated eNOS inhibition. LC40 treatment prevents all the aortic changes induced by tacrolimus. LC40 restores the imbalance between T‐helper 17 (Th17)/regulatory T (Treg) cells induced by tacrolimus in mesenteric lymph nodes and the spleen. Tacrolimus‐induced gut dysbiosis, that is, it decreases microbial diversity, increases the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio and decreases acetate‐ and butyrate‐producing bacteria, and these effects are prevented by LC40. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from LC40‐treated mice to control mice prevents the increase in SBP and the impaired relaxation to acetylcholine induced by tacrolimus.

Conclusion

LC40 treatment prevents hypertension and endothelial dysfunction induced by tacrolimus by inhibiting gut dysbiosis. These effects are associated with a reduction in vascular oxidative stress, mainly through NOX2 downregulation and prevention of eNOS uncoupling, and inflammation possibly because of decreased Th17 and increased Treg cells polarization in mesenteric lymph nodes.
Yerba Mate Stimulates Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Thermogenesis in High‐Fat‐Diet‐Induced Obese Mice
Authors: dos Santos Tanila Wood , Miranda Jonatan , Teixeira Lucimara , Aiastui Ana , Matheu Ander , Gambero Alessandra , Portillo María P. , Ribeiro Marcelo Lima
Published: May 2018

Scope

The potential effects of yerba mate (YM) on mitochondrial biogenesis and thermogenesis are evaluated.

Methods and results

The in vitro effects of YM on mitochondrial respiration are assessed in C2C12 cells. The expression of genes related to mitochondrial biogenesis and thermogenesis are analyzed by quantitative PCR. The in vivo experiments are performed on mice fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) and treated with YM extract. Indirect calorimetry was performed, and the expression of genes and proteins related to mitochondrial biogenesis, thermogenesis, and de novo lipogenesis is determined by quantitative PCR and western blot. Our in vitro data indicate that YM increases mtDNA copy number as well as mitochondrial spare respiratory capacity and coupling efficiency. The gene expression profile reinforces this evidence, indicating a modulation of genes downstream of Ampk. In vivo, it is found that YM partially prevents diet‐induced obesity by increasing energy expenditure and enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis via the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC1α pathway.

Conclusions

YM stimulates mitochondriogenesis and Ucp expression, leading to an increase in the spare respiratory capacity and energy dissipation. These effects may help to better understand the potential use of YM for obesity treatment.
Why are triploid zebrafish all male?
Authors: Delomas Thomas A. , Dabrowski Konrad
Published: May 2018

Adult triploid zebrafish Danio rerio has previously been reported to be all male. This phenomenon has only been reported in one other gonochoristic fish species, the rosy bitterling Rhodeus ocellatus, despite the fact that triploidy is induced in numerous species. To investigate the mechanism responsible, we first produced triploid zebrafish and observed gonad development. Histological sections of juvenile triploid gonads showed that primary growth oocytes were able to develop in the juvenile ovary, but no cortical alveolus or more advanced oocytes were found. All adult triploids examined were male (n = 160). Male triploids were able to induce oviposition by diploid females during natural spawning trials, but fertilization rates were low (1.0 ± 3.1%) compared with diploid male siblings (67.4 ± 16.6%). The embryos produced by triploid sires were aneuploid with a mean ploidy of 2.4 ± 0.1n, demonstrating that triploid males produce aneuploid spermatozoa. After confirming that adult triploids are all male, we produced an additional batch of triploid zebrafish and exposed them (and a group of diploid siblings) to 100 ng/L estradiol (E2) from 5 to 28 dpf. The E2 treated triploids and nontreated triploids were all male. The nontreated diploids were also all male, but the E2 treated diploids were 89% female. This demonstrates that triploidy acts downstream of estrogen synthesis in the sex differentiation pathway to induce male development. Based on this and the observations of juvenile gonad development in triploids, we suggest that triploidy inhibits development of oocytes past the primary growth stage, and this causes female to male sex reversal.
Assessment of frequency drift on CEST MRI and dynamic correction: application to gagCEST at 7 T
Authors: Windschuh Johannes , Zaiss Moritz , Ehses Philipp , Lee Jae‐Seung , Jerschow Alexej , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

To investigate the effect of a frequency drift of the static magnetic field on 3D CEST MRI based on glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) of articular cartilage at 7 T and to introduce a retrospective correction method that uses the phase images of the gradient‐echo readout.

Methods

Repeated gagCEST and B0 measurements were performed in a glucose model solution and in vivo in the knee joint of 3 healthy volunteers at 7 T. Phase images of the modified 3D rectangular spiral centric–reordered gradient‐echo CEST sequence were used to quantify and compensate the apparent frequency drift in repeated gagCEST measurements.

Results

The frequency drift of the MRI scanner strongly influences the gagCEST signal in the articular cartilage of the human knee joint. The gagCEST signal in the articular cartilage is changed by 0.18%/Hz while an average drift of 0.7 ± 0.2 Hz/minute was observed. The proposed correction method can be applied retrospectively without the need of additional measurements and provides improved comparability and reproducibility for gagCEST studies. This correction method may also be of interest for other applications of CEST MRI.

Conclusion

Prospective or retrospective correction of the frequency drift of the MRI scanner is essential for reproducible gagCEST measurements. The proposed retrospective correction method fulfills this requirement without the need of additional measurements.
How a ‘bot’ it? Using live chat to convert leads and serve students
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: May 2018

Chatbots — a website‐specific instant messaging tool — have been a popular customer service and lead‐conversion tool in e‐commerce for some time now, helping shoppers complete transactions and, perhaps, increasing order size. Higher education, an industry known for low conversion rates, can take a cue from the success online stores have had with this medium.
Consider nontraditional learners in totality to draw students with grit
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2018

Consider nontraditional learners in totality to draw students with grit

Developing an understanding for the context of student experiences
Mental illness, debt – and a breathing space
Authors: Ogden Joy
Published: May 2018

People with bipolar disorder often find a manic or hypomanic episode manifests itself in a massive spending spree. As Kay Redfield Jamison, a clinically bipolar professor of psychiatry and mental health expert remarks in her book, An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness: ‘So after mania, when most depressed, you're given excellent reason to be even more so.’
Mental and physical health balance in treatment‐resistant schizophrenia
Authors: Korsavva Sofia , Dhadesugur Seshadri
Published: May 2018

Treatment‐resistant schizophrenia can be very difficult to manage and a significant number of patients go through many different antipsychotic combinations with limited success. Physical health side‐effects such as diabetes, raised cholesterol levels and cardiovascular problems secondary associated with some antipsychotics may complicate a patient's treatment and enforce a difficult but necessary change of antipsychotics. Here, the authors discuss the struggle to balance mental and physical health treatments in a patient who has developed type 2 diabetes, related problems from high HbA1c and cardiac issues.
Taboos, worms and prophecies: insights into the placebo enigma
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: May 2018

The placebo response is a complicated and complex social, cultural, psychological and biological phenomenon that contributes to every drug effect, complicates every clinical trial and influences every interaction between healthcare professionals and patients. Researchers now have an unprecedented understanding of the biological basis for the phenomenon, although, important questions remain.
Effect of a mitochondrial‐targeted coenzyme Q analog on pancreatic β‐cell function and energetics in high fat fed obese mice
Authors: Imai Yumi , Fink Brian D. , Promes Joseph A. , Kulkarni Chaitanya A. , Kerns Robert J. , Sivitz William I.
Published: May 2018

We recently reported that mitoquinone (mitoQ, 500 μmol/L) added to drinking water of C57BL/6J mice attenuated weight gain and reduced oxidative stress when administered to high‐fat (HF) fed mice. Here, we examined the effects of mitoQ administered to HF fed mice on pancreatic islet morphology, dynamics of insulin secretion, and islet mitochondrial metabolism. C57BL/6J mice were fed HF for 130 days while we administered vehicle (cyclodextrin [CD]) or mitoQ added to the drinking water at up to 500 μmol/L. MitoQ‐treated mice vs vehicle gained significantly less weight, expended significantly more energy as determined by indirect calorimetry, and trended to consume less (nonsignificant) food. As we and others reported before, mitoQ‐treated mice drank less water but showed no difference in percent body fluid by nuclear magnetic resonance. Circulating insulin and glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion by isolated islets were decreased in mitoQ‐treated mice while insulin sensitivity (plasma insulin x glucose) was greater. Islet respiration as basal oxygen consumption (OCR), OCR directed at ATP synthesis, and maximal uncoupled OCR were also reduced in mitoQ‐treated mice. Quantitative morphologic studies revealed that islet size was reduced in the mitoQ‐treated mice while visual inspection of histochemically stained sections suggested that mitoQ reduced islet lipid peroxides. MitoQ markedly improved liver function as determined by plasma alanine aminotransferase. In summary, mitoQ treatment reduced the demand for insulin and reduced islet size, likely consequent to the action of mitoQ to mitigate weight gain and improve liver function.
Management of benign vulval dermatoses in primary care
Authors: Patel Mitesh , Nunns David
Published: May 2018

Vulval dermatoses can be difficult to manage in primary care, and GPs need to be aware of the risk of malignancy. This article describes the most common types of benign vulval dermatoses encountered in primary care and their management, and discusses when referral to secondary care is required.
Is weight loss the future of type 2 diabetes treatment?
Authors: Dowden Angela
Published: May 2018

Achieving remission from type 2 diabetes was once only thought to be realistic for patients undergoing bariatric surgery. But this view is changing with early publication of results from the Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT) based in Scotland and Tyneside, which has found success through a strict low‐calorie diet. This article discusses the implications of the study for the future of diabetes treatment.
Dupilumab for the treatment of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: May 2018

Dupilumab (Dupixent) is a new monoclonal antibody treatment licensed for use in adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) who are candidates for systemic therapy. This article discusses its properties, efficacy and side‐effects.
Game changers
Authors: Heeg Robert
Published: May 2018

How are the different generations changing the industry in APAC where market research is maturing after a period of fast growth? We asked members of the Programme Committee for ESOMAR's upcoming Asia Pacific Conference which takes place in Bangkok about the most recent entrants to the research profession.
Ten Things You Need to Know About Gen Z
Authors: Cape Pete
Published: May 2018

Let's look at what matters to this generation as they are now reaching adulthood.
Learn how tailored fundraising can pack a big punch for small colleges
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2018

PHILADELPHIA — Budget cuts, closings, and mergers can strike almost anyone in the higher ed world. But small colleges are among those feeling the economic squeeze the most. That makes fundraising and development imperative for small colleges. But when student affairs professionals at small colleges embark upon fundraising and development, the most effective method won't come about by following the lead of their larger counterparts. In fact, small colleges need an approach that's tailored to fit their institutional size without limiting the scope of their reach or the return on their investments.