bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inducing surface porosity in aqueous‐quenched, microporous Nylon 11 and Nylon 12 films
Authors: Funk Caleb V. , Billovits Gerald F. , Koreltz Michael S. , Dooley Joseph , Chiou Nan‐Rong
Published: January 2017

Nylon 11 and Nylon 12 have been studied for many years for the purpose of fabricating microporous films. Unfortunately, these polymers have somewhat unique properties that prevent the films from exhibiting porous surfaces when their solutions undergo thermally induced phase separation by quenching in water. Without surface pores, these films have limited utility as water purification membranes. In this work, application of high temperature diluent coatings to the surface prior to quenching is shown to enable the formation of surface porosity in Nylon 11 and Nylon 12 films. Furthermore, the pore sizes achieved are suitable for ultrafiltration applications. Following successful lab‐scale coating experiments, the effects of coating thickness, temperature, and solvent type on surface morphology are demonstrated over five film extrusion trials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44695.
Biopolymer agar‐agar doped with NH4SCN as solid polymer electrolyte for electrochemical cell application
Authors: Selvalakshmi S. , Vijaya N. , Selvasekarapandian S. , Premalatha M.
Published: January 2017

A new polymer electrolyte based on the biopolymer Agar‐Agar doped with ammonium thiocyanate (NH4SCN) has been prepared and characterized by FTIR analysis, X‐ray diffraction measurements, AC impedance spectroscopy, transference number measurements, and DSC analysis. The Fourier transform infrared analysis confirms the complex formation between agar and NH4SCN. The amorphous nature of the polymer electrolyte has been revealed from X‐ray diffraction analysis. The highest ionic conductivity has been observed for the sample of composition 1:1 between Agar and NH4SCN. As a function of temperature, the ionic conductivity of this sample exhibits Arrhenius behavior increasing from 1.03 × 10−3 S cm−1 at ambient temperature to 3.16 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 343 K. The transference number has been estimated by the dc polarization method, and it has been proven that the conducting species are predominantly cations. Using the highest conductivity polymer electrolyte, solid state electrochemical cell has been fabricated and cell parameters are reported. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44702.
Incorporation of graphitic nano‐filler and poly(lactic acid) in fused deposition modeling
Authors: Yu Wang Wang , Zhang Jie , Wu Jin Rong , Wang Xin Zhou , Deng Yu He
Published: January 2017

This article presents research results showing that the property of fused deposition modeling (FDM) products is obtained jointly by careful control of processing parameters, structure of products, and the composition of material. In this manuscript, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) was incorporated with graphene or carbon nanotube (CNT) through repeated melt blending. Filament of the PLA/graphitic nano‐filler was prepared and used in FDM. Rheological and thermal analysis were conducted to assess the suitability of the composite as FDM feedstock, and mechanical and electrical property were tested subsequently. Research results demonstrate that filament diameter‐regarded as processing‐related parameter‐was positively correlated with mechanical stiffness and strength of FDM products. Tensile elongation at break of FDM products exhibited significant increase at a raster angle of 45° compared with the filament before FDM, showing in certain cases, material property depends more on the structure than the composition. And when incorporated with graphene or CNT, the electrical conductivity of the PLA‐based composite increased drastically. The electrical conductivity of the best experiment sample reached ∼10−1 S m−1, demonstrating that composition is the key to functionalizing material. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44703.
Dielectric cure determination of a thermosetting epoxy composite prepreg
Authors: Park Heejin
Published: January 2017

Evaluation of degree of cure (DoC) of a glass reinforced epoxy composite prepreg used for manufacturing of printed circuit board (PCB) is an intensive issue because of its practical importance and cost reduction in industry. Typical techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) are destructive and require curing a material during a chosen time, quenching the sample to stop cure before performing analysis. Thus, it is necessary to remove the temperature influence on the determination of DoC. In this study, the feasibility of nondestructive dielectric sensing method as an in situ DoC measuring technique through cure monitoring of prepreg is presented, where a vacuum packing configuration has been established so as for the prepreg to evaluate accurately the DoC in a quenched state at an ambient temperature. The optimal curing condition to get the fully cured state of a prepreg material is determined by the dielectric cure monitoring based on the behavior of ion viscosity. The temperature effect compensated DoC of prepreg is correlated and compared with that evaluated by DSC and FTIR. The correlated DoC with ion viscosity has identified the curing behavior of prepreg by determining cure kinetic parameters. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44707.
Three‐dimensional electrospun micropatterned cellulose acetate nanofiber surfaces with tunable wettability
Authors: Kakunuri Manohar , Wanasekara Nandula D. , Sharma Chandra S. , Khandelwal Mudrika , Eichhorn Stephen J.
Published: January 2017

Three‐dimensional polymer nanofibrous mats with tunable wettability have been fabricated using a single step non‐conductive template assisted electrospinning process. Cellulose acetate nanofibers are electrospun over a nylon mesh, which acts as the template. The as‐deposited fiber mat is removed from this template to produce a free standing three‐dimensional micropatterned nanofibrous mat. By simply varying the template mesh dimensions, the fraction of the air‐liquid interface can be changed which allows control of the wetting mechanics. It is shown that the water contact angle can be varied from about 30° for a planar network to about 140° for a patterned mat implying a complete transition from hydrophilic to hydrophobic behavior. Furthermore, upon stretching the fiber mat loses its pattern irreversibly and reducing the contact angle from 140° to 110° with increasing stretching. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44709.
Poly(vinylidene fluoride) hollow‐fiber membranes containing silver/graphene oxide dope with excellent filtration performance
Authors: Fan Yaofang , Quan Xie , Zhao Huimin , Chen Shuo , Yu Hongtao , Zhang Yaobin , Zhang Qi
Published: January 2017

In this study, an antifouling poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) hollow‐fiber membrane was fabricated by blending with silver‐loaded graphene oxide via phase inversion through a dry‐jet, wet‐spinning technique. The presence of graphene oxide endowed the blended membrane with a high antifouling ability for organic fouling. The permeation fluxes of the blended membrane was 3.3 and 2.9 times higher than those of a pristine PVDF membrane for filtering feed water containing protein and normal organic matter, respectively. On the other hand, the presence of silver improved the antibiofouling capability of the blended membrane. For the treatment of Escherichia coli suspension, the permeation flux of the blended membranes was 8.2 times as high as that of the pristine PVDF membrane. Additionally, the presented blended membrane improved the hydrophilicity and mechanical strength compared to those of the pristine PVDF membrane, with the water contact angle decreasing from 86.1 to 62.5° and the tensile strength increasing from 1.94 to 2.13 MPa. This study opens an avenue for the fabrication of membranes with high permeabilities and antifouling abilities through the blending of graphene‐based materials for water treatment. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44713.
Synthesis and characterization of new oligomeric/polymeric antistatic additives for sheet molding composites
Authors: Schubert Katrin , Gedan‐Smolka Michaela
Published: January 2017

For various applications it is necessary to lower the specific surface resistivity of polymers in an electrostatically conductive area. To improve the antistatic properties of sheet molding composites (SMC) usually conductive inorganic additives, like carbon black, inorganic salts, metal powder, or CNTs, are mixed physically into the matrix. A newly developed concept for antistatic treatment is using oligomeric/polymeric additives, which are synthesized on the base of ingredients of the used polymeric matrix itself. The received additives are compatible with the matrix. Furthermore, the migration of the additives to the surface is prevented and in the case they exhibit double bonds they are able to be linked in the polymeric network permanently by covalent bonds. So unsaturated, polymer‐based antistatic additives with ionic units were developed for unsaturated polyester resin based SMC. The synthesis was realized by polymer analogous reactions and polycondensation reactions from monomer building blocks with ionic units. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44741.
A step‐wise approach to define binding mechanisms of surrogate viral particles to multi‐modal anion exchange resin in a single solute system
Authors: Brown Matthew R. , Johnson Sarah A. , Brorson Kurt A. , Lute Scott C. , Roush David J.
Published: January 2017

Multi‐modal anion exchange resins combine properties of both anion exchange and hydrophobic interaction chromatography for commercial protein polishing and may provide some viral clearance as well. From a regulatory viral clearance claim standpoint, it is unclear if multi‐modal resins are truly orthogonal to either single‐mode anion exchange or hydrophobic interaction columns. To answer this, a strategy of solute surface assays and High Throughput Screening of resin in concert with a scale‐down model of large scale chromatography purification was employed to determine the predominant binding mechanisms of a panel of bacteriophage (i.e., PR772, PP7, and ϕX174) to multi‐modal and single mode resins under various buffer conditions. The buffer conditions were restricted to buffer environments suggested by the manufacturer for the multi‐modal resin. Each phage was examined for estimated net charge expression and relative hydrophobicity using chromatographic based methods. Overall, PP7 and PR772 bound to the multimodal resin via both anionic and hydrophobic moieties, while ϕX174 bound predominantly by the anionic moiety. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 1487–1494. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of two biodegradable‐polymer‐based sirolimus‐eluting stents with varying elution and absorption kinetics in patients with acute myocardial infarction: A subgroup analysis of the PANDA III trial
Authors: Guan Changdong , Xu Bo , Qiao Shubin , Qin Lei , Li Yi , Li Zhanquan , Guo Yong , Sun Zhongwei , Song Lei , Gao Runlin ,   on behalf of the PANDA III Investigators
Published: January 2017

Background

Implantation of early‐generation metallic drug‐eluting stents (DES) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is associated with poor vessel wall healing. Use of biodegradable polymer (BP) DES might improve safety outcomes; however, the impact of varying drug elution and polymer absorption kinetics of BP‐DES on clinical outcomes in the AMI population is unknown.

Methods

This subgroup analysis of the randomized PANDA III trial included 732 patients (366 in each group) presenting with recent (<1 month) AMI. Primary endpoint was 1‐year target lesion failure (TLF), a composite of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction (MI), or ischemia‐driven target lesion revascularization. Secondary endpoints included a patient‐oriented composite endpoint (PoCE) of all‐cause death, all MI, or any revascularization; individual TLF and PoCE components; and definite/probable stent thrombosis (ST).

Results

There were no significant differences between‐groups in baseline clinical, angiographic, or procedural characteristics other than the proportion of post‐dilatation, which was performed more frequently with the BuMA stent (53.9% vs. 44.5%; P = 0.004). After 1 year, compared to Excel SES implantation in patients with AMI, BuMA was associated with similar incidences of TLF and PoCE (5.5% vs. 8.3%, P = 0.14; 8.8% vs. 9.9%, P = 0.61, respectively) but lower incidences of MI (2.5% vs. 6.1%, P = 0.02), target vessel MI (2.2% vs. 5.8%, P = 0.01), and definite/probable ST (0.3% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

BuMA SES, with faster drug elution rate and polymer absorption kinetics, might improve safety outcomes compared to Excel SES in the high‐risk AMI population. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enzymatic biodiesel production from microalgae biomass using propane as pressurized fluid
Authors: Marcon Naiane Sabedot , Colet Rosicler , Balen Darline Simoni , Pereira de Pereira Claudio Martin , Bibilio Denise , Priamo Wagner , Bender João Paulo , Steffens Clarice , Rosa Clarissa Dalla
Published: January 2017

The search for renewable and sustainable fuels is becoming increasingly more important. As a result, the use of biomass as an energy source is one of the most promising methods in the reduction of energy dependence on non‐renewable fossil fuels. In order to reduce the amount of solvent used during direct transesterification, this study has aimed at producing biodiesel from microalgae (Chlorella vulgaris) biomass using enzymatic catalysis (Novozym 435) and pressurized fluid (propane). The effects of pressure (3000 to 8000 kPa), temperature (323.15 to 353.15 K), and exposure time (1 to 8 h) have been studied through the experimental design for esters conversion. The newly investigated system showed consistency through the experimental design technique, evaluating the effect of significant variables such as time, temperature, and pressure in the process. The good conversions yielded have been achieved using mild temperature and higher pressure conditions, demonstrating that this process has great potential for obtaining biodiesel from microalgae biomass.
Comparison of methods and TAT assessment: Volumetric AQUIOS CL and bead‐based FACS CANTO II cytometers
Authors: Grossi Valentina , Infantino Maria , Meacci Francesca , Bellio Emanuele , Bellio Valerio , Ciotta Giovanna , Priami Fiorella , Sarzi‐Puttini Piercarlo , Atzeni Fabiola , Li Gobbi Francesca , Damiani Arianna , Benucci Maurizio , Manfredi Mariangela
Published: January 2017

Background

Measurement of lymphocyte subpopulations is a crucial parameter in the diagnosis and monitoring of therapy in a wide variety of clinical conditions. We compared different flow cytometry‐based methods to determine lymphocyte subsets counts of routine samples by volumetric AQUIOS CL (Beckman Coulter) and bead‐based FACS CANTO II (BD Biosciences) cytometers. We evaluated the possible decrease of the labor intensive technical work using the fully automated AQUIOS CL system in the pre and post analytical steps in comparison with our routine flow cytometer FACS CANTO II, toward the reduction of laboratory analytical turnaround time (TAT).

Methods

The analytical performance of AQUIOS CL flow cytometer compared with FACS CANTO II was evaluated testing 224 routine samples, attending the Immunology and Allergology Laboratory Unit, S. Giovanni di Dio Hospital, (Florence, Italy) between September and October 2015.

Results

Bland–Altman plot of the differences between the two methods showed an excellent agreement for absolute and percentage counts. Furthermore, the study showed that automated AQUIOS CL system is simple to be used during all analytical steps with a reduction of TAT.

Conclusion

In routine conditions, AQUIOS CL flow cytometer could be a suitable tool for subpopulations subset analysis. © 2017 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Frogs model man: In vivo thyroid hormone signaling during development
Authors: Sachs Laurent M. , Buchholz Daniel R.
Published: January 2017

Thyroid hormone (TH) signaling comprises TH transport across cell membranes, metabolism by deiodinases, and molecular mechanisms of gene regulation. Proper TH signaling is essential for normal perinatal development, most notably for neurogenesis and fetal growth. Knowledge of perinatal TH endocrinology needs improvement to provide better treatments for premature infants and endocrine diseases during gestation and to counteract effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals. Studies in amphibians have provided major insights to understand in vivo mechanisms of TH signaling. The frog model boasts dramatic TH‐dependent changes directly observable in free‐living tadpoles with precise and easy experimental control of the TH response at developmental stages comparable to fetal stages in mammals. The hormones, their receptors, molecular mechanisms, and developmental roles of TH signaling are conserved to a high degree in humans and amphibians, such that with respect to developmental TH signaling “frogs are just little people that hop.” The frog model is exceptionally illustrative of fundamental molecular mechanisms of in vivo TH action involving TH receptors, transcriptional cofactors, and chromatin remodeling. This review highlights the current need, recent successes, and future prospects using amphibians as a model to elucidate molecular mechanisms and functional roles of TH signaling during post‐embryonic development.
Nkx2.5 regulates endothelin converting enzyme‐1 during pharyngeal arch patterning
Authors: Iklé Jennifer M. , Tavares Andre L. P. , King Marisol , Ding Hailei , Colombo Sophie , Firulli Beth A. , Firulli Anthony B. , Targoff Kimara L. , Yelon Deborah , Clouthier David E.
Published: January 2017

In gnathostomes, dorsoventral (D‐V) patterning of neural crest cells (NCC) within the pharyngeal arches is crucial for the development of hinged jaws. One of the key signals that mediate this process is Endothelin‐1 (EDN1). Loss of EDN1 binding to the Endothelin‐A receptor (EDNRA) results in loss of EDNRA signaling and subsequent facial birth defects in humans, mice and zebrafish. A rate‐limiting step in this crucial signaling pathway is the conversion of immature EDN1 into a mature active form by Endothelin converting enzyme‐1 (ECE1). However, surprisingly little is known about how Ece1 transcription is induced or regulated. We show here that Nkx2.5 is required for proper craniofacial development in zebrafish and acts in part by upregulating ece1 expression. Disruption of nkx2.5 in zebrafish embryos results in defects in both ventral and dorsal pharyngeal arch‐derived elements, with changes in ventral arch gene expression consistent with a disruption in Ednra signaling. ece1 mRNA rescues the nkx2.5 morphant phenotype, indicating that Nkx2.5 functions through modulating Ece1 expression or function. These studies illustrate a new function for Nkx2.5 in embryonic development and provide new avenues with which to pursue potential mechanisms underlying human facial disorders.
New evidence of sea‐level lowstands and paleoenvironment during MIS 6 and 4 in the Cantabrian coastal karst: the Cobiheru cave (North Iberia)
Authors: Ballesteros Daniel , Rodríguez‐Rodríguez Laura , González‐Lemos Saúl , Giralt Santiago , Álvarez‐Lao Diego Jaime , Adrados Luna , Jiménez‐Sánchez Montserrat
Published: January 2017

The geomorphological evolution of the Cobiheru Cave shows the influence of the non‐carbonate coastal mountain ranges on coastal karst evolution, as well as the temporal distribution of the cold‐adapted fauna sites in the Cantabrian Coast. Geomorphological observation and uranium/thorium (U/Th) dating lead to the construction of an evolution model. The model comprises two episodes of cave deposition occurring at c. 60–70 and 130–150 ka, linked to cold climate conditions, global sea‐level lowstands and the erosion of alluvial fans that covered the karst. Moreover, the comparison between the Cobiheru record and some raised beaches identified in previous studies sets the beginning of the sea‐level lowering in the Cantabrian Sea during the marine isotope stages (MIS) 5–4 transition. Two palaeoenvironments are inferred based on finding Equus ferus and Elona quimperiana. A wet deciduous forest would have developed on the emerged marine terrace of the Cobiheru Cave since at least the Middle Pleistocene, and an open landscape with scarce vegetation would have been present at c. 65 ka. The erosional event identified in the Cobiheru Cave helps to understand the temporal distribution of cold‐adapted mammals located in the Asturias region. The probable sites of cold‐adapted fauna developed in caves and alluvial fans would have disappeared after 65 ka. Therefore, palaeontological and palaeoclimate research based on cold‐adapted mammals suggests the occurrence of an hiatus in the palaeontological record prior to 50 ka. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of structural organization of epilithic and endolithic lichens on limestone weathering
Authors: Morando Mariagrazia , Wilhelm Katrin , Matteucci Enrica , Martire Luca , Piervittori Rosanna , Viles Heather A. , Favero‐Longo Sergio Enrico
Published: January 2017

Hyphal penetration, mineral dissolution and neoformation at the lichen–rock interface have been widely characterized by microscopic and spectroscopic studies, and considered as proxies of lichen deterioration of stone substrates. However, these phenomena have not been clearly related to experimental data on physical properties related to stone durability, and the physical consequences of lichen removal from stone surfaces have also been overlooked. In this study, we combine microscopic and spectroscopic characterization of the structural organization of epi‐ and endolithic lichens (Caloplaca marina (Wedd.) Du Rietz, Caloplaca ochracea (Schaer.) Flagey, Bagliettoa baldensis (A.Massal.) Vězda, Porina linearis (Leight.) Zahlbr., Verrucaria nigrescens Pers.) at the interface with limestones of interest for Cultural Heritage (Portland Limestone, Botticino Limestone), with analysis of rock properties (water absorption, surface hardness) relevant for durability, before and after the removal or scraping of lichen thalli. Observations using reflected‐light and electron microscopy, and Raman analyses, showed lichen–limestone stratified interfaces, differing in the presence/absence and depth of lichen anatomical layers (lithocortex, photobiont layer, pervasive and sparse hyphal penetration component) depending on species and lithology. Specific structural organizations of lichen–rock interface were found to be associated with differential patterns of water absorption increase, evaluated by Karsten tube, in comparison with surfaces with microbial biofilms only, even more pronounced after the removal or scraping of the upper structural layers. Equotip measurements on surfaces bearing intact thalli showed lower hardness in comparison with control surfaces. By contrast, after the removal or scraping procedures, Equotip values were similar to or higher than those of controls, suggesting that the increasing open porosity may be related to a biogenic hardening process. Such counterposed patterns of porosity increase and hardening need to be considered when models relating lichen occurrence on limestones and biogeomorphological surface evolution are proposed, and to evaluate the consequences of lichen removal from stone‐built cultural heritage. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eradication of hepatitis C virus and non‐liver‐related non–acquired immune deficiency syndrome–related events in human immunodeficiency virus/hepatitis C virus coinfection
Authors: Berenguer Juan , Rodríguez‐Castellano Elena , Carrero Ana , Von Wichmann Miguel A. , Montero Marta , Galindo María J. , Mallolas Josep , Crespo Manuel , Téllez María J. , Quereda Carmen , Sanz José , Barros Carlos , Tural Cristina , Santos Ignacio , Pulido Federico , Guardiola Josep M. , Rubio Rafael , Ortega Enrique , Montes María L. , Jusdado Juan J. , Gaspar Gabriel , Esteban Herminia , Bellón José M. , González‐García Juan ,   the GESIDA HIV/HCV Cohort Study Group
Published: January 2017

We assessed non‐liver‐related non–acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)‐related (NLR‐NAR) events and mortality in a cohort of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV)–coinfected patients treated with interferon (IFN) and ribavirin (RBV), between 2000 and 2008. The censoring date was May 31, 2014. Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the adjusted hazard rate (HR) of overall death in responders and nonresponders. Fine and Gray regression analysis was conducted to determine the adjusted subhazard rate (sHR) of NLR deaths and NLR‐NAR events considering death as the competing risk. The NLR‐NAR events analyzed included diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure, cardiovascular events, NLR‐NAR cancer, bone events, and non‐AIDS‐related infections. The variables for adjustment were age, sex, past AIDS, HIV transmission category, nadir CD4+ T‐cell count, antiretroviral therapy, HIV RNA, liver fibrosis, HCV genotype, and exposure to specific anti‐HIV drugs. Of the 1,625 patients included, 592 (36%) had a sustained viral response (SVR). After a median 5‐year follow‐up, SVR was found to be associated with a significant decrease in the hazard of diabetes mellitus (sHR, 0.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.35‐0.93; P = 0.024) and decline in the hazard of chronic renal failure close to the threshold of significance (sHR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.17‐1.09; P = 0.075). Conclusion: Our data suggest that eradication of HCV in coinfected patients is associated not only with a reduction in the frequency of death, HIV progression, and liver‐related events, but also with a reduced hazard of diabetes mellitus and possibly of chronic renal failure. These findings argue for the prescription of HCV therapy in coinfected patients regardless of fibrosis stage. (Hepatology 2017;66:344–356).
Effects of reservoir stratification and watershed hydrology on manganese and iron in a dam‐regulated river
Authors: Munger Zackary W. , Shahady Thomas D. , Schreiber Madeline E.
Published: January 2017

The presence of metals, including manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe), adversely impacts water quality. In seasonally stratified reservoirs, Mn and Fe can accumulate in the water column due to reducing conditions in sediments and be released to downstream rivers through dam discharge. In addition to reservoir stratification influences, the release of metals downstream is influenced by hydrologic conditions in the river. We examined the seasonal and spatial variability of Mn and Fe concentrations in a eutrophic, hydropower reservoir and the downstream river over a two‐year period. Overall, we found that reservoir stratification was a strong predictor of tailrace Mn and Fe concentrations but that tailrace Fe concentrations were also influenced by dam discharge. Downgradient of the tailrace, river discharge and suspended sediment were the dominant predictors of both Mn and Fe concentrations. Using our data, we develop a conceptual model of seasonal and hydrologic drivers of metal concentrations. The model can be modified for other systems aiding drinking water utilities and other water users in forecasting under what seasonal and hydrologic conditions that Mn and Fe concentrations in river systems are likely to be elevated.
Physical activity and risk of endometrial cancer in the Norwegian Women and Cancer (NOWAC) study
Authors: Borch Kristin B. , Weiderpass Elisabete , Braaten Tonje , Jareid Mie , Gavrilyuk Oxana A. , Licaj Idlir
Published: January 2017

Few studies have investigated the association between endometrial cancer and physical activity (PA) using repeated measures of PA and different subtypes of endometrial cancer. We aimed to investigate the association between endometrial cancer and PA level at two points in time in women with different body mass index (BMI) profiles, and to calculate the population attributable fraction (PAF) of endometrial cancer for low PA levels. We included 82,759 women with complete information on PA at baseline in the Norwegian Women and Cancer Study; 52,370 had follow‐up information on PA. 687 endometrial cancer cases were identified. Multivariate cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The PAF indicated the proportion of endometrial cancer that could be avoided in the population if these women had a higher PA level. There was a statistically significant association between low PA levels at baseline and follow‐up and endometrial cancer risk, with a dose‐response trend (lowest PA level: HR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.16–2.20; highest PA level: HR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.45–1.16 compared to the median). Analyses that included follow‐up measurements yielded similar results. 21.9% (95% CI 7.1–34.3) of endometrial cancers could be avoided if women with low PA levels (≤ 4 in a 1–10 degree self reported PA scale) increased their PA levels to 5‐10. We found an inverse dose‐response association between PA and endometrial cancer, independent of BMI. In this nationally representative cohort, 21.9% of endometrial cancers could potentially be avoided if PA levels increased to higher PA levels.
Relationships between exercise, smoking habit and mortality in more than 100,000 adults
Authors: O'Donovan Gary , Hamer Mark , Stamatakis Emmanuel
Published: January 2017

Exercise is associated with reduced risks of all‐cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer mortality; however, the benefits in smokers and ex‐smokers are unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate associations between exercise, smoking habit and mortality. Self‐reported exercise and smoking, and all‐cause, CVD and cancer mortality were assessed in 106,341 adults in the Health Survey for England and the Scottish Health Survey. There were 9149 deaths from all causes, 2839 from CVD and 2634 from cancer during 999,948 person‐years of follow‐up. Greater amounts of exercise were associated with decreases and greater amounts of smoking were associated with increases in the risks of mortality from all causes, CVD and cancer. There was no statistically significant evidence of biological interaction; rather, the relative risks of all‐cause mortality were additive. In the subgroup of 26,768 ex‐smokers, the all‐cause mortality hazard ratio was 0.70 (95% CI 0.60, 0.80), the CVD mortality hazard ratio was 0.71 (0.55, 092) and the cancer mortality hazard ratio was 0.66 (0.52, 0.84) in those who exercised compared to those who did not. In the subgroup of 28,440 smokers, the all‐cause mortality hazard ratio was 0.69 (0.57, 0.83), the CVD mortality hazard ratio was 0.66 (0.45, 0.96) and the cancer mortality hazard ratio was 0.69 (0.51, 0.94) in those who exercised compared to those who did not. Given that an outright ban is unlikely, this study is important because it suggests exercise reduces the risks of all‐cause, CVD and cancer mortality by around 30% in smokers and ex‐smokers.
Organizational climate and investigation performance in the Norwegian police: A qualitative study
Authors: Lone Jon Anders , Garnås Alexander , Myklebust Trond , Bjørklund Roald , Hoff Thomas , Bjørkli Cato
Published: January 2017

The present study aimed to identify organizational climate dimensions that are salient for police investigation performance and to explicate the mechanisms of the relationship between organizational climate and investigation performance. We conducted 38 semistructured interviews with participants at three job levels of police investigative work (chiefs of police, n = 11, senior investigating officers, n = 14, detectives, n = 13) in 11 Norwegian police districts. We analyzed the interview data by using a model of organizational climate based on the competing values framework (Quinn & Rohrbaugh, 1983). Two types of climate, human relations climate and rational goal climate, were perceived to enhance investigation performance. The findings indicate that a human relations climate enhances investigation performance by developing collective human capital and by supporting internal and external cooperation and coordination of resources. Moreover, the findings suggest that a rational goal climate increases investigation performance by encouraging planning, goal setting, and task focus.
Competitive benzyl cation transfer and proton transfer: collision‐induced mass spectrometric fragmentation of protonated N,N‐dibenzylaniline
Authors: Ma G. , Liu G. , Shen S. , Chai Y. , Yue L. , Zhao S. , Pan Y.
Published: January 2017

Collision‐induced dissociation of protonated N,N‐dibenzylaniline was investigated by electrospray tandem mass spectrometry. Various fragmentation pathways were dominated by benzyl cation and proton transfer. Benzyl cation transfers from the initial site (nitrogen) to benzylic phenyl or aniline phenyl ring. The benzyl cations transfer to the two different sites, and both result in the benzene loss combined with 1,3‐H shift. In addition, after the benzyl cation transfers to the benzylic phenyl ring, 1,2‐H shift and 1,4‐H shift proceed competitively to trigger the diphenylmethane loss and aniline loss, respectively. Deuterium labeling experiments, substituent labeling experiments and density functional theory calculations were performed to support the proposed benzyl cation and proton transfer mechanism. Overall, this study enriches the knowledge of fragmentation mechanisms of protonated N‐benzyl compounds. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maintaining stability of the rumen ecosystem is associated with changes of microbial composition and epithelial TLR signaling
Authors: Shen Hong , Chen Zhan , Shen Zanming , Lu Zhongyan
Published: January 2017

We used the goat as a model to study the effects of rumen microbial composition and epithelial TLR signaling on maintaining rumen stability during exogenous butyrate interference. Six cannulated goats received a rapid intraruminal infusion of 0.1 mol/L potassium phosphate buffer with (BT, n = 3) or without (CO, n = 3) 0.3 g/kg·BW·day sodium butyrate for 28 days. The ruminal pH and the concentration of total SCFA were not affected by the interference. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing revealed a change in microbial composition after the butyrate infusion. LEfSe analysis showed a shift of the biomarker species from butyrate‐producing bacteria to acetate‐and propionate‐producing bacteria. Quantitative PCR‐based comparisons showed that significant increases in TLR2, TLR5, and MyD88 expression were accompanied by a significant decrease in IL‐1β and IFN‐γ expression in the ruminal epithelium. Constrained correlation analysis showed that the relative abundance of Roseburia was positively correlated with the expression of TLR5. Taken together, our study shows that microbial composition plays an important role in maintaining the stability of the microbial ecosystem in rumen, and indicates that the microbe‐TLR‐cytokine axis was involved in maintaining the stability of the gastrointestinal ecosystem.
Attitudes towards non‐invasive prenatal diagnosis among obstetricians in Pakistan, a developing, Islamic country
Authors: Ahmed Shenaz , Jafri Hussain , Rashid Yasmin , Mason Gerald , Ehsan Yasmin , Ahmed Mushtaq
Published: January 2017

Objectives

Stakeholders' views are essential for informing implementation strategies for non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT). Little is known about such views in developing countries. We explored attitudes towards NIPT among obstetricians in Pakistan, a developing, Islamic country.

Methods

A 35‐item questionnaire was distributed and collected at eight events (a national conference and seven workshops in five cities) for obstetric professionals on advances in fetal medicine.

Results

Responses from 113 obstetrician show positive attitudes towards implementation of NIPT: 95% agreed prevention of genetic conditions was a necessity, and 97% agreed public hospitals should provide prenatal screening tests. However, participants also agreed the availability of NIPT would increase social pressure on women to have prenatal screening tests and to terminate an affected pregnancy (53% and 63%, respectively). Most participants would not offer NIPT for sex determination (55%), although 31% would. The most valued aspects of NIPT were its safety, followed by its utility and then accuracy.

Conclusion

Participants generally supported the implementation of NIPT but raised concerns about social implications. Therefore, national policy is needed to regulate the implementation of NIPT, and pretest information and post‐test genetic counselling are needed to mitigate social pressure and support parents to make informed decisions. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relaxing nonequilibrated polymers in thin films at temperatures slightly above the glass transition
Authors: Chowdhury Mithun , Al Akhrass Samer , Ziebert Falko , Reiter Günter
Published: January 2017

We have studied the dewetting process of thin polystyrene films on nonwettable substrates in the viscoelastic regime slightly above the glass transition temperature. The evolution of the shape of the dewetting rim for varying film thickness, molecular weights and dewetting temperatures allowed us to determine the relaxation rates of residual stresses, which originated from nonequilibrated polymer chain conformations formed during film preparation by spin‐coating. For long chain polymers, we found rates notably faster than the longest bulk relaxation processes, highly independent of molecular weight and temperature. Our study demonstrates that dewetting is a powerful tool for sensitive characterization of nonequilibrium properties of thin polymer films. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys.2017,55, 515–523
Thermoelectric properties of PEDOT films prepared by electrochemical polymerization
Authors: Zhang Lu , Goto Tatsunari , Imae Ichiro , Sakurai Yasuaki , Harima Yutaka
Published: January 2017

Thermoelectric (TE) properties of flexible and free‐standing poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) films synthesized via galvanostatic polymerization of 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene in propylene carbonate containing sulfated poly(β‐hydroxyethers) (S‐PHE) as polymer electrolyte were elaborately studied. Both electrical conductivities (σ) and Seebeck coefficients (S) of the PEDOT:S‐PHE films were increased by decreasing the temperature (T) or by increasing the current density (J) during electrosynthesis. Possible reasons for the lack of a trade‐off relation commonly observed between σ and S are discussed on the basis of SEM and oxidation‐level measurements. Preparation of the PEDOT:S‐PHE films was optimized with respect to T and J. In addition, the oxidation level of the PEDOT:S‐PHE films was controlled by potential and the change of their TE performances was discussed in conjunction with the change of chemical species involved. The power factor (PF = σS2) of the PEDOT:S‐PHE films reached 7.9 μW m−1 K−2, leading to a dimensionless TE figure‐of‐merit (ZT) of 0.013. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 524–531
Morphine Pharmacodynamics in Mechanically Ventilated Preterm Neonates Undergoing Endotracheal Suctioning
Authors: Välitalo P. A. , Krekels E. H. J. , van Dijk M. , Simons S. H. P. , Tibboel D. , Knibbe C. A. J.
Published: January 2017

To date, morphine pharmacokinetics (PKs) are well quantified in neonates, but results about its efficacy are ambiguous. This work presents an analysis of a previously published study on pain measurements in mechanically ventilated preterm neonates who received either morphine or placebo to improve comfort during invasive ventilation. The research question was whether morphine reduces the pain associated with endotracheal or nasal suctioning before, during, and after suctioning. Because these neonates cannot verbalize their pain levels, pain was assessed on the basis of several validated pain measurement instruments (i.e., COMFORT‐B, preterm infant pain profile [PIPP], Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS), and visual analogue scale (VAS)). The item response theory (IRT) was used to analyze the data in order for us to handle the data from multiple‐item pain scores. The analysis showed an intra‐individual relationship between morphine concentrations and pain reduction, as measured by COMFORT‐B and VAS. However, the small magnitude of the morphine effect was not considered clinically relevant for this intervention in preterm neonates.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Benralizumab in Healthy Volunteers and Patients With Asthma
Authors: Wang B , Yan L , Yao Z , Roskos LK
Published: January 2017

Benralizumab is a humanized, afucosylated, anti‐interleukin‐5 receptor α, immunoglobulin G (IgG) 1 κ monoclonal antibody. We developed a population pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) model for benralizumab by analyzing PK and blood eosinophil count data from two healthy volunteer studies (N = 48) and four studies in patients with asthma (N = 152). Benralizumab PK was dose‐proportional and adequately described by a two‐compartment model with first‐order elimination from the central compartment and first‐order absorption from the subcutaneous dosing site. The estimated systemic clearance and volume of distribution were typical for human IgG. Body weight and high‐titer antidrug antibodies were identified as relevant covariates influencing the PK of benralizumab. Depletion of blood eosinophil counts was depicted by a modified transit model in which benralizumab induced depletion of eosinophils in each age compartment. Stochastic simulations supported an every‐8‐week dosing schedule of benralizumab for a phase IIb study in patients with uncontrolled asthma.
Analyzing the risk factors for a diminished oocyte retrieval rate under controlled ovarian stimulation
Authors: Nakamura Mayumi , Yamashita Yoshiki , Hayashi Atsushi , Saito Natsuho , Yu Masae , Hayashi Masami , Terai Yoshito , Ohmichi Masahide
Published: January 2017

Aim

To investigate which risk factors contribute to a lower oocyte retrieval ratio in women who are receiving controlled ovarian hyperstimulation.

Methods

The authors retrospectively analyzed 329 in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles under controlled ovarian hyperstimulation by using a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone antagonist or agonist at Osaka Medical College, Japan. The patients were classified into five groups: advanced age, male infertility, severe endometriosis, tubal infertility, and unexplained infertility. The primary outcomes were the patients’ age, oocyte retrieval ratio, serum basal follicle‐stimulating hormone, total dose of gonadotropin, and the clinical outcome. A secondary outcome was the stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis to assess the factors associated with the failure of oocyte retrieval.

Results

The oocyte retrieval ratio declined significantly with the patient's age. The ratio of endometriosis in unsuccessful cases was significantly higher than that in successful cycles. Advanced age and endometriosis were the factors that were significantly associated with a lowered oocyte retrieval rate.

Conclusion

Advanced age and endometriosis are high‐risk factors that contribute to oocyte retrieval failure in infertile patients who are receiving IVF treatment.
Management of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome with abdominal compartment syndrome, based on intravesical pressure measurement
Authors: Makino Hiroshi , Furui Tatsuro , Shiga Tomomi , Takenaka Motoki , Terazawa Keiko , Morishige Ken‐ichiro
Published: January 2017

There are few reports on abdominal compartment syndrome that are caused by ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Here, a case of a 29 year old woman is reported in which intravesical pressure measurement was useful in the management of severe OHSS that had been complicated by abdominal compartment syndrome. The patient's urinary output and general condition did not improve after the initial treatment. The woman's intra‐abdominal pressure was evaluated indirectly, based on her intravesical pressure, and was found to be significantly elevated. The patient's urinary volume increased after a 14 mm Hg decrease in the intravesical pressure was achieved by the drainage of ascitic fluid. Intravesical pressure measurement was useful in the management of the general condition of this patient with OHSS.
Molecular mechanism of estrogen–estrogen receptor signaling
Authors: Yaşar Pelin , Ayaz Gamze , User Sırma Damla , Güpür Gizem , Muyan Mesut
Published: January 2017

17β‐Estradiol (E2), as the main circulating estrogen hormone, regulates many tissue and organ functions in physiology. The effects of E2 on cells are mediated by the transcription factors and estrogen receptor (ER)α and ERβ that are encoded by distinct genes. Localized at the peri‐membrane, mitochondria, and the nucleus of cells that are dependent on estrogen target tissues, the ERs share similar, as well as distinct, regulatory potentials. Different intracellular localizations of the ERs result in dynamically integrated and finely tuned E2 signaling cascades that orchestrate cellular growth, differentiation, and death. The deregulation of E2–ER signaling plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of target tissue malignancies. A better understanding of the complex regulatory mechanisms that underlie ER actions in response to E2 therefore holds a critical trajectory for the development of novel prognostic and therapeutic approaches with substantial impacts on the systemic management of target tissue diseases.
Phase III trial of 8% vaginal progesterone gel for luteal phase support in Japanese women undergoing in vitro fertilization and fresh embryo transfer cycles
Authors: Kokeguchi Shoji , Hayashi Naoki , Rogoff Daniela , Shimizu Shin , Ishihara Osamu
Published: January 2017

Aim

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of vaginal progesterone gel that was administered daily for luteal phase support as part of in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVF/ET) cycles in Japanese women.

Methods

This was a phase III, multicenter, open‐label, single‐arm trial in Japanese women undergoing IVF/ET, using the Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2009 registry as a historical control. The primary objective was to demonstrate the non‐inferiority, with regard to the clinical pregnancy rate per ET, of vaginal progesterone gel that was administered once daily, compared with the historical standard value in IVF/ET cycles in Japan. The biochemical pregnancy (positive serum β‐hCG pregnancy test but no clinical pregnancy) rate per ET also was investigated, as were the safety and tolerability of the vaginal progesterone gel.

Results

Of the 178 women who were enrolled, 123 underwent IVF/ET. The clinical pregnancy rate per ET was non‐inferior in the prospective arm, compared with the historical population. The biochemical pregnancy rate per ET was 7.3%. The safety profile of the vaginal progesterone gel was as expected, with no new safety issue identified.

Conclusion

The vaginal progesterone gel was efficacious, with a safety profile as expected, in this study in Japanese women undergoing IVF/ET cycles.
Observation of the dynamics of follicular development in the ovary
Authors: Komatsu Kouji , Masubuchi Satoru
Published: January 2017

The number of ovulated oocytes is different among mammals but does not vary much within the same species. In order to sustain periodic ovulation, follicular development must be coordinated at the tissue level. Elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of follicular development is difficult because the ovary has a complicated structure and it takes a long time for primordial follicles to develop into Graafian follicles. Therefore, it is not possible to observe follicular development by conventional experiments. The authors previously developed a new ovarian tissue culture method that enabled the observation of follicular development from the early follicle stage. These findings indicated that follicular interactions are important in regulating follicular development and ovulation. This review describes the current methods of observing follicular development in the ovary and the regulatory mechanisms of follicular development.