bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transoral robotic resection of benign tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract: Experience of the French group of GETTEC
Authors: Chabrillac Emilien , Morinière Sylvain , Jegoux Franck , Blanchard David , Choussy Olivier , Hans Stéphane , Vergez Sébastien
Published: April 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the current use of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in benign tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract through a case series and a literature review.

Methods

This multicentric retrospective study was conducted in 6 French centers between November 2009 and July 2017.

Results

Twenty‐one patients had a TORS resection of a tumor at varied locations with differing histopathologic characteristics. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 6.1 days. Eight patients had nasogastric tubes, which were removed after a mean of 5.6 days. Two patients had a prophylactic tracheostomy for an average of 5.5 days. A third tracheostomy was performed secondarily for postoperative bleeding. No recurrences were observed during the 2‐year follow‐up.

Conclusion

This technique caused few complications and resulted in short hospitalization, with satisfactory functional and recurrence outcomes. However, the risk of bleeding and edema must be considered, and the need for a tracheostomy must be approached wisely.
Ubiquitin‐Specific Peptidase 10 (USP10) Inhibits Hepatic Steatosis, Insulin Resistance, and Inflammation Through Sirt6
Authors: Luo Pengcheng , Qin Cong , Zhu Lihua , Fang Chun , Zhang Yan , Zhang Hai , Pei Fei , Tian Song , Zhu Xue‐Yong , Gong Jun , Mao Qing , Xiao Chengcheng , Su Yang , Zheng Haizhou , Xu Tao , Lu Jingxiao , Zhang Jie
Published: April 2018

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by hepatic steatosis, insulin resistance and inflammation, and the pathogenic mechanism of NAFLD is poorly understood. Ubiquitin‐specific peptidase 10 (USP10), a member of the ubiquitin‐specific protease family, is involved in environmental stress responses, tumor growth, inflammation, and cellular metabolism. However, the role of USP10 in hepatic steatosis, insulin resistance, and inflammation remains largely unexplored. USP10 expression was detected in livers of patients with NAFLD, mice with high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced obesity, and genetically obese (ob/ob) mice, as well as in palmitate‐induced hepatocytes. The function of USP10 in hepatic steatosis, insulin resistance, and inflammation was investigated using hepatocyte‐specific USP10 deficiency or overexpression in mice induced by HFD treatment or genetic defect. The molecular mechanisms underlying USP10‐regulated hepatic steatosis were further investigated in HFD‐treated mice. USP10 expression was significantly decreased in the fatty livers of NAFLD patients and obese mice and in palmitate‐treated hepatocytes. USP10 deficiency exacerbated the metabolic dysfunction induced by HFD treatment for 12 weeks. Conversely, USP10 overexpression significantly suppressed metabolic dysfunction in mice after HFD treatment and inhibited the development of NAFLD in ob/ob mice. Further investigation indicated that USP10 regulates hepatic steatosis by interacting with Sirt6 and inhibiting its ubiquitination and degradation. Sirt6 overexpression markedly ameliorated the effects of USP10 deficiency in hepatic steatosis, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Conversely, Sirt6 deficiency decreased the ameliorative effects of USP10 overexpression in response to HFD treatment. Conclusion: USP10 inhibits hepatic steatosis, insulin resistance, and inflammation through Sirt6.
Gene expression differences among different MSI statuses in colorectal cancer
Authors: Chen Lei , Pan Xiaoyong , Hu XiaoHua , Zhang Yu‐Hang , Wang ShaoPeng , Huang Tao , Cai Yu‐Dong
Published: April 2018

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in males and second in females. This disease can be caused by genetic and acquired/environmental factors. Microsatellite instability (MSI) is one of the major mechanisms in colorectal cancer. This mechanism is a specific condition of genetic hyper mutability that results from incompetent DNA mismatch repair. MSI has been applied to classify different colorectal cancer subtypes. However, the effects of MSI status on gene expression are largely unknown. In our study, we integrated the gene expression profile and MSI status of all CRC samples from the TCGA database, and then categorized the CRC samples into three subgroups, namely, MSI‐stable, MSI‐low, and MSI‐high, according to the MSI status. We applied a novel computational method based on machine learning and screened the genes specifically expressed for the different colorectal cancer subtypes. The results showed the distinct mechanisms of the different colorectal cancer subtypes with MSI status and provided the genes that may be the optimal standards to further classify the various molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer with distinct MSI status.
Proinflammatory diet is associated with increased risk of squamous cell head and neck cancer
Authors: Mazul Angela L. , Shivappa Nitin , Hébert James R. , Steck Susan E. , Rodriguez‐Ormaza Nidia , Weissler Mark , Olshan Andrew F. , Zevallos Jose P.
Published: April 2018

Diets high in fruits and vegetables and low in red meat intake have been associated with decreased risk of head and neck cancer. Additionally, chronic inflammation pathways and their association with cancer have been widely described. We hypothesized a proinflammatory diet, as measured by the dietary inflammatory index (DII®), is associated with increased risk of head and neck cancer. We used the Carolina Head and Neck Cancer (CHANCE) study, a population‐based case–control study of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cases were recruited from a 46‐county region in central North Carolina. Controls, frequency‐matched on age, race, and sex were identified through the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicle records. The DII score, adjusted for energy using the density approach (E‐DII), was calculated from a food frequency questionnaire and split into four quartiles based on the distribution among controls. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were estimated with unconditional logistic regression. Cases had higher E‐DII scores (i.e., a more proinflammatory diet) compared with controls (mean: −0.14 vs. −1.50; p value < 0.001). When compared with the lowest quartile, the OR for the highest quartile was 2.91 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.16–3.95), followed by 1.93 (95% CI: 1.43–2.62) for the third quartile, and 1.37 (95% CI: 1.00–1.89) for the second quartile. Both alcohol and smoking had a significant additive interaction with E‐DII (smoking relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI): 2.83; 95% CI: 1.36–4.30 and alcohol RERI: 1.75; 95% CI: 0.77–2.75). These results provide additional evidence for the association between proinflammatory diet and head and neck cancer.
A prospective evaluation of plasma polyphenol levels and colon cancer risk
Authors: Murphy Neil , Achaintre David , Zamora‐Ros Raul , Jenab Mazda , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Carbonnel Franck , Savoye Isabelle , Kaaks Rudolf , Kühn Tilman , Boeing Heiner , Aleksandrova Krasimira , Tjønneland Anne , Kyrø Cecilie , Overvad Kim , Quirós J. Ramón , Sánchez Maria‐Jose , Altzibar Jone M. , María Huerta José , Barricarte Aurelio , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Bradbury Kathryn E. , Perez‐Cornago Aurora , Trichopoulou Antonia , Karakatsani Anna , Peppa Eleni , Palli Domenico , Grioni Sara , Tumino Rosario , Sacerdote Carlotta , Panico Salvatore , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. B(as) , Peeters Petra H. , Rutegård Martin , Johansson Ingegerd , Freisling Heinz , Noh Hwayoung , Cross Amanda J. , Vineis Paolo , Tsilidis Kostas , Gunter Marc J. , Scalbert Augustin
Published: April 2018

Polyphenols have been shown to exert biological activity in experimental models of colon cancer; however, human data linking specific polyphenols to colon cancer is limited. We assessed the relationship between pre‐diagnostic plasma polyphenols and colon cancer risk in a case–control study nested within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study. Using high pressure liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry, we measured concentrations of 35 polyphenols in plasma from 809 incident colon cancer cases and 809 matched controls. We used multivariable adjusted conditional logistic regression models that included established colon cancer risk factors. The false discovery rate (qvalues) was computed to control for multiple comparisons. All statistical tests were two‐sided. After false discovery rate correction and in continuous log2‐transformed multivariable models, equol (odds ratio [OR] per log2‐value, 0.86, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 0.79–0.93;qvalue = 0.01) and homovanillic acid (OR per log2‐value, 1.46, 95% CI = 1.16–1.84;qvalue = 0.02) were associated with colon cancer risk. Comparing extreme fifths, equol concentrations were inversely associated with colon cancer risk (OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.41–0.91,ptrend = 0.003), while homovanillic acid concentrations were positively associated with colon cancer development (OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.17–2.53,ptrend < 0.0001). No heterogeneity for these associations was observed by sex and across other colon cancer risk factors. The remaining polyphenols were not associated with colon cancer risk. Higher equol concentrations were associated with lower risk, and higher homovanillic acid concentrations were associated with greater risk of colon cancer. These findings support a potential role for specific polyphenols in colon tumorigenesis.
Prostatitis, other genitourinary infections and prostate cancer risk: Influence of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs? Results from the EPICAP study
Authors: Doat Solène , Marous Miguelle , Rebillard Xavier , Trétarre Brigitte , Lamy Pierre‐Jean , Soares Paolo , Delbos Olivier , Thuret Rodolphe , Segui Bruno , Cénée Sylvie , Menegaux Florence
Published: April 2018

Epidemiological studies have suggested that prostatitis may increase the risk of prostate cancer due to chronic inflammation. We studied the association between several genitourinary infections and the risk of prostate cancer based on data from the EPICAP study. EPICAP is a population‐based case‐control study conducted in the département of Hérault, France, between 2012 and 2014. A total of 819 incident cases and 879 controls have been face to face interviewed using a standardized questionnaire gathering information on known or suspected risk factors of prostate cancer, and personal history of genitourinary infections: prostatitis, urethritis, orchi‐epididymitis, and acute pyelonephritis. Odds Ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence interval were estimated using multivariate unconditional logistic regression. Overall, 139 (18%) cases and 98 (12%) controls reported having at least one personal history of genitourinary infections (OR = 1.64 [1.23–2.20]). The risk increased with the number of infections (p‐trend < 0.05). The association was specifically observed with personal history of chronic prostatitis and acute pyelonephritis (OR = 2.95 [1.26–6.92] and OR = 2.66 [1.29–5.51], respectively) and in men who did not use any non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (OR = 2.00 [1.37–2.91]). Our results reinforce the hypothesis that chronic inflammation, generated by a personal history of genitourinary infections, may play a role in prostate carcinogenesis.
Formation of Highly Permeable Soil on a Heavy Soil Base Under Tidal Irrigation and Drainage Conditions
Authors: Ashrafi Shahram , Tajik Fouad , Akram Mojtaba
Published: April 2018

Abadan date palm plantations have long been irrigated by rivers under the tidal effects of the Persian Gulf. During high tides, river water makes subirrigation possible while during low tides the same ditches drain out the plant root zone. Recently parts of the plantation have been under traditional drainage and surprisingly failed to work efficiently. In order to find the cause, the hydraulic conductivity of the soil layers was measured using parallel drains which show that the topsoil up to 70 cm is very permeable, but then up to 95 cm it is impermeable. Piezometric measurements also show that the soil between 70 and 130 cm is impermeable. The ratio of contribution (RC) of the soil layers to the total flow in the soil profile decreases with depth. Values of the RC for the first 60 and 70 cm soil depths are about 91 and 98% respectively. Although soil texture in the first layer has been classified as clay, biological activities, mostly live roots, have changed both the magnitude and size of the pores. It was concluded that in tidal subirrigation, only the upper part of the soil which has been under the root spread can be assumed to be permeable. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lophirones B and C halt acetaminophen hepatotoxicity by upregulating redox transcription factor Nrf‐2 through Akt, PI3K, and PKC pathways
Authors: Aliyu Najeeb O. , Ajala‐Lawal Rafiat A. , Ajiboye Taofeek O.
Published: April 2018

We investigated the mechanism of lophirones B‐ and C‐mediated protection against acetaminophen hepatotoxicity. Mice were pretreated with 20 mg/kg body weight lophirones B and C for 7 days and challenged with acetaminophen on day 7. Acetaminophen raised nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) in the liver of mice but lowered protein kinase B (Akt). Although, acetaminophen produced no significant alteration on nuclear erythroid related factor‐2 (Nrf‐2), phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase C (PKC), lophirones B and C raised the level of these proteins and Akt. The acetaminophen‐mediated increase in NF‐κB was significantly reversed by lophirones B and C. Lophirones B and C prevented acetaminophen‐mediated alterations in serum biomarkers of hepatic injury. Similarly, lophirones B and C lowered the biomarkers of oxidative stress in the liver of acetaminophen‐treated mice. It can be inferred from this study that lophirones B and C prevent acetaminophen‐induced liver injury by enhancing Nrf‐2 through Akt, PI3K, and PKC pathways.
The relationship between personal growth and psychological functioning in individuals treated in a partial hospital setting
Authors: Danitz Sara B. , Orsillo Susan M. , Beard Courtney , Björgvinsson Thröstur
Published: April 2018

Objectives

We examined whether current level of personal growth and changes in personal growth predicted treatment response among participants in a partial hospital setting.

Method

Patients (N = 269; aged 18–70 years, M = 33.6; 52.4% female) completed measures of personal growth initiative (PGI), valuing personal growth (VPG), and psychological functioning measures at treatment admission and discharge from a partial hospital.

Results

PGI and VPG were negatively associated with depression and positively associated with psychological well‐being. Baseline PGI and VPG did not predict changes in psychological functioning at discharge. PGI and VPG significantly increased following treatment, and increases were associated with decreases in depression and increases in well‐being over and above previously established predictors.

Conclusions

Valuing personal growth for intrinsic reasons and active engagement in the personal growth process may be important characteristics to cultivate in psychotherapy as they are malleable and negatively related to depression.
Effectiveness of an anger control program among veterans with PTSD and other mental health issues: A comparative study
Authors: Kalkstein Solomon , Scott James Cobb , Vickers Smith Rachel , Cruz Jourdan
Published: April 2018

Objective

This study examines the effectiveness of an anger management program among veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues.

Method

Veterans with (n = 76) and without (n = 58) PTSD completed anger management groups at the Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Self‐rated checklists of anger and PTSD symptoms (for those with PTSD) were completed before and after the group.

Results

Significant improvement in anger was observed in the overall sample (p < .001) but did not differ based on PTSD diagnosis. No significant PTSD symptom changes were observed.

Conclusions

Veterans with broad mental health concerns benefited significantly from this anger management program, consistent with prior research. Implications for program improvement and future research are discussed.
Parental psychological control, adolescent self‐criticism, and adolescent depressive symptoms: A latent change modeling approach in Belgian adolescents
Authors: Bleys Dries , Soenens Bart , Claes Stephan , Vliegen Nicole , Luyten Patrick
Published: April 2018

Objective

At the level of both between‐person differences and within‐person changes across time, parental achievement‐oriented psychological control may influence the development of adolescent self‐criticism, which in turn may increase vulnerability for adolescent depression.

Method

In a two‐wave prospective study of 368 adolescents (age 13–17 years), Latent Change Modeling was used with Belgian adolescents' self‐report measures.

Results

For mothers and fathers separately, adolescent self‐criticism intervened in associations between achievement‐oriented psychological control and adolescent depressive symptoms, at the level of both between‐person differences and within‐person changes. When investigating parents simultaneously, only maternal parenting was related directly and indirectly to adolescent depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Our results underscore the importance of personality‐related vulnerability in associations between the parenting environment and symptoms of psychopathology during adolescent development.
Child social and emotion functioning as predictors of therapeutic alliance in cognitive–behavioral therapy for anxiety
Authors: Whitehead Monica , Jones Anna , Bilms Joanie , Lavner Justin , Suveg Cynthia
Published: April 2018

Objective

This study examined baseline child social and emotional functioning as predictors of therapeutic alliance during a cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) program for children with anxiety disorders. It was hypothesized that better social and emotional functioning at baseline would be related to stronger alliance initially and over the course of treatment.

Method

Ninety‐two anxious youth, ages 7–11 years (M age = 8.93 years, SD = 1.64; 42% female) participated. Children, caregivers, and teachers completed measures of child social and emotional functioning. Therapeutic alliance was measured using therapist‐rated and observer‐coded reports.

Results

Receiving prosocial support from peers and emotion regulation (ER) were both related to initial rating and slope of alliance.

Conclusions

Child social and emotional functioning enhances our understanding of how the alliance is formed and in identifying children who might be at risk for difficulties in developing a strong therapeutic relationship.
Enhanced activities and thermostability of lipase pretreated with carboxylic and perflurocarboxylic acids in transesterification
Authors: Matsumoto Michiaki , Matsui Erika
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

The development of techniques that enhance the catalytic activity and thermostability of enzymes continues to receive attention. Among many methods, the pretreatment approach is very attractive because its preparation is easy and no additives are required in the reaction system. In this study, the catalytic activities and thermostability of lipases pretreated with various carboxylic and perfluorocarboxylic acids were investigated for transesterification in an organic medium.

RESULTS

All of the carboxylic and perfluorocarboxylic acids used in this study positively affected enzymatic activity and the bio‐imprinting effects of pH and substrate analogues were observed. The lipase pretreated with heptafluorobutyric acid gave the highest initial rate. The pretreatment of lipase with carboxylic and perfluorocarboxylic acids enhanced its thermostability more than the untreated lipase.

CONCLUSION

The pretreatment of carboxylic and perfluorocarboxylic acids was effective for both catalytic activity and stabilization of lipase. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Microbial recovery of metallic nanoparticles from industrial wastes and their environmental applications
Authors: Pat‐Espadas Aurora M , Cervantes Francisco J
Published: April 2018

In recent years, metallic nanoparticles (NPs) have been produced by biological methods using bacteria and have been used with remarkable environmental applications. This paper emphasizes the basic aspects of microbial synthesis of metallic nanoparticles, from the selection of the strain to the settings of reaction parameters. Mechanisms involved in the microbial production of NPs are also discussed, summarizing general findings and implications in the process. There is also a section dedicated to the identification of wastes as a source of precious metals and the production of metallic NPs from waste streams containing ionic metals to give a vision of the opportunities to implement microbial synthesis as a treatment–recovery technology. Environmental applications of biogenic NPs are reviewed in detail indicating that the implementation of these nanomaterials enable the achievement of higher removal efficiencies and greater extent of transformation of recalcitrant compounds in wastewater treatment systems. Under this scenario and based on the information reviewed concluding remarks and futures perspectives are enunciated. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Variation of T2 relaxation times in pediatric brain tumors and their effect on metabolite quantification
Authors: Carlin Dominic , Babourina‐Brooks Ben , Davies Nigel P. , Wilson Martin , Peet Andrew C.
Published: April 2018

Background

Metabolite concentrations are fundamental biomarkers of disease and prognosis. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a noninvasive method for measuring metabolite concentrations; however, quantitation is affected by T2 relaxation.

Purpose

To estimate T2 relaxation times in pediatric brain tumors and assess how variation in T2 relaxation affects metabolite quantification.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Twenty‐seven pediatric brain tumor patients (n = 17 pilocytic astrocytoma and n = 10 medulloblastoma) and 24 age‐matched normal controls.

Field Strength/Sequence

Short‐ (30 msec) and long‐echo (135 msec) single‐voxel MRS acquired at 1.5T.

Assessment

T2 relaxation times were estimated by fitting signal amplitudes at two echo times to a monoexponential decay function and were used to correct metabolite concentration estimates for relaxation effects.

Statistical Tests

One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on ranks were used to analyze the mean T2 relaxation times and metabolite concentrations for each tissue group and paired Mann–Whitney U‐tests were performed.

Results

The mean T2 relaxation of water was measured as 181 msec, 123 msec, 90 msec, and 86 msec in pilocytic astrocytomas, medulloblastomas, basal ganglia, and white matter, respectively. The T2 of water was significantly longer in both tumor groups than normal brain (P < 0.001) and in pilocytic astrocytomas compared with medulloblastomas (P < 0.01). The choline T2 relaxation time was significantly longer in medulloblastomas compared with pilocytic astrocytomas (P < 0.05), while the T2 relaxation time of NAA was significantly shorter in pilocytic astrocytomas compared with normal brain (P < 0.001). Overall, the metabolite concentrations were underestimated by ∼22% when default T2 values were used compared with case‐specific T2 values at short echo time. The difference was reduced to 4% when individually measured water T2s were used.

Data Conclusion

Differences exist in water and metabolite T2 relaxation times for pediatric brain tumors, which lead to significant underestimation of metabolite concentrations when using default water T2 relaxation times.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:195–203.
Sensitivity analysis and uncertainty estimation for nanoscale MOSFET
Authors: Yu Panpan , Sun Ling , Cheng Jiali , Gao Jianjun
Published: April 2018

Analytical expressions of the sensitivity analysis and uncertainty estimation for intrinsic elements and substrate parasitics in the small‐signal equivalent circuit model of metal‐oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistor, related to the S‐parameter measurement uncertainties, are derived in this paper. And the substrate parasitic elements are extracted, and corresponding sensitivities are calculated by using a cut‐off condition extraction procedure. Furthermore, the intrinsic model parameters and their uncertainties versus bias voltage are also investigated to give more reliable extraction results suitable for implementation in automatic multibias extraction programs.
Mesencephalic dopamine neurons interfacing the shell of nucleus accumbens and the dorsolateral striatum in the rat
Authors: Wouterlood Floris G. , Engel Angela , Daal Mariah , Houwen Gertjan , Meinderts Aileen , Jordà Siquier Tomàs , Beliën Jeroen A. M. , van Dongen Yvette C. , Scheel‐Krüger Jørgen , Thierry Anne‐Marie , Groenewegen Henk J. , Deniau Jean‐Michel
Published: April 2018

Parallel corticostriatonigral circuits have been proposed that separately process motor, cognitive, and emotional‐motivational information. Functional integration requires that interactions exist between neurons participating in these circuits. This makes it imperative to study the complex anatomical substrate underlying corticostriatonigral circuits. It has previously been proposed that dopaminergic neurons in the ventral mesencephalon may play a role in this circuit interaction. Therefore, we studied in rats convergence of basal ganglia circuits by depositing an anterograde neuroanatomical tracer into the ventral striatum together with a retrograde fluorescent tracer ipsilaterally in the dorsolateral striatum. In the mesencephalon, using confocal microscopy, we looked for possible appositions of anterogradely labeled fibers and retrogradely labeled neurons, “enhancing” the latter via intracellular injection of Lucifer Yellow. Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunofluorescence served to identify dopaminergic neurons. In neurophysiological experiments, we combined orthodromic stimulation in the medial ventral striatum with recording from ventral mesencephalic neurons characterized by antidromic stimulation from the dorsal striatum. We observed terminal fields of anterogradely labeled fibers that overlap populations of retrogradely labeled nigrostriatal cell bodies in the substantia nigra pars compacta and lateral ventral tegmental area (VTA), with numerous close appositions between boutons of anterogradely labeled fibers and nigrostriatal, TH‐immunopositive neurons. Neurophysiological stimulation in the medial ventral striatum caused inhibition of dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons projecting to the ventrolateral striatal territory. Responding nigrostriatal neurons were located in the medial substantia nigra and adjacent VTA. Our results strongly suggest a functional link between ventromedial, emotional‐motivational striatum, and the sensorimotor dorsal striatum via dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurons.
The impact of erythropoietin and iron status on brain myelination in the newborn rat
Authors: Flores Karen P. , Blohowiak Sharon E. , Winzerling Joy J. , Georgieff Michael K. , Kling Pamela J.
Published: April 2018

Erythropoietin (Epo) drives iron (Fe) utilization for erythropoiesis, but the potentially resultant tissue iron deficiency (ID) can also impede brain development. Conversely, Epo binds to Epo receptors (EpoR) on immature brain oligodendrocytes and neurons, promoting growth and differentiation. The objective of the study was to examine the interaction between Epo and Fe on myelination in brain development during daily Epo treatment. Male and female Sprague‐Dawley rats from postnatal day (P) P4‐P12 modeled premature newborns. Dam‐fed Fe‐sufficient (IS) or postnatal ID groups were given daily subcutaneous sham or erythropoietic Epo injections (425 U.kg−1.d−1), ± oral Fe (6 mg.kg−1.d−1). Tissues and blood were collected and studied at P12. Epo in the ID groups, in the absence of oral Fe, stimulated microcytic ID anemia along with raising inflammatory markers. Both the microcytic anemia and inflammation improved in the ID + Epo + Fe group. Fe treatment positively impacted erythropoiesis and body Fe (µg/g) in all groups. Relative brain Fe (µg/g rat) was improved in the IS + Epo + Fe group. Brain Fe was not worsened in +Epo groups. Brain weight and brain Fe were related to plasma Epo levels. Amount of myelination was impacted by feeding type, but was not inhibited by Epo. Expression of a protein in myelin, mylein basic protein, was greater in all +Fe groups than –Fe groups. With therapeutic Epo, available body Fe was prioritized for erythropoiesis instead of brain, but Epo did not worsen brain Fe and potentially Epo improved myelination and maturation in the brain.
Anodal and cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation can decrease force output of knee extensors during an intermittent MVC fatiguing task in young healthy male participants
Authors: Giboin Louis‐Solal , Gruber Markus
Published: April 2018

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has the capacity to enhance force output during a short‐lasting maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) as well as during a long‐lasting submaximal voluntary contraction until task failure. However, its effect on an intermittent maximal effort is not known. We hypothesized that anodal tDCS applied during or before a maximal fatigue task increases the amplitude of maximal voluntary contraction (aMVC) and voluntary activation (VA) in young healthy male participants. We measured VA, potentiated twitch at rest (Ptw), root mean square electromyogram (EMG), and aMVC during a fatiguing task that consisted of 35 × 5 s MVC of knee extensors and was performed during tDCS or 10 min after the end of tDCS (sham, anodal, or cathodal treatments). No effect of tDCS was detected on the first MVC but, when compared to sham tDCS, both anodal tDCS and cathodal tDCS reduced aMVC when tDCS was applied during the task (p < .001) and only anodal tDCS reduced aMVC when applied 10 min before the task (p = .03). The reductions in aMVC were accompanied by reductions in EMG of M. vastus lateralis for both tDCS treatments as well as in Ptw only during anodal tDCS and in VA only during cathodal tDCS. Both cathodal tDCS and anodal tDCS impaired force production during an intermittent fatiguing MVC task. The detrimental effects were stronger when tDCS was applied during the task. Here, cathodal and anodal tDCS specifically affected Ptw and VA indicating different underlying mechanisms.
Dark chocolate with a high oleic peanut oil microcapsule content
Authors: Agibert Silvia AC , Lannes Suzana C da S
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

In accordance with the market demand for healthier indulgent food products, the present study aimed to determine the viability of the industrial production of dark chocolate with microcapsules of high oleic peanut oil content. Microcapsules of high oleic peanut oil were added to a control formulation using variations of mixing time.

RESULTS

The chocolates presented a rheology characterized by a pseudoplastic behavior adjusted to the Casson model (r > 0.98) and calorimetric behavior indicating melting onset (21 °C), peak melting (32 °C) and melting end (41 °C); caramelization peak (183 °C); and carbonization peak (237 °C), being considered thermal stable. The mixing time and the amount of microcapsules added to the control chocolate did not significantly influence the flow limit (11.09 ± 1.73 Pa) or the physical characteristics of the chocolate: pH (6.74 ± 0.14), maximum particle size (0.019 ± 0.001 mm), water activity (0.358 ± 0.023) and brittleness (18.61 ± 3.74 N). However, the addition of microcapsules with a high oleic peanut oil content significantly increased the chocolate whiteness index, thixotropy and Casson's plastic viscosity, although it did not have a significant influence on the mixing time.

CONCLUSION

The products obtained have a desirable quality and physical properties, being suitable for industrial production. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Resolution enhanced light field near eye display using e‐shifting method with birefringent plate
Authors: Wu Jui‐Yi , Chou Ping‐Yen , Peng Kuei‐En , Huang Yi‐Pai , Lo Hsin‐Hsiang , Chang Chuan‐Chung , Chuang Fu‐Ming
Published: April 2018

Light field near eye displays (LFNED) can produce lightweight devices and address the accommodation–convergence conflict. However, low spatial resolution creates a poor immersive experience in LFNED. In addition, although many e‐shifting devices have been proposed to enhance resolution in projection system, yet those devices are too bulky to be applied in an LFNED to keep it lightweight. In this paper, a compact e‐shifting component is proposed to enhance image resolution in an LFNED by using a birefringent plate and twisted nematic switch cell. The proposed e‐shifting device is a flat and thin component with only 2.6 mm of thickness, which could be placed in the gap of an LFNED without increasing the thickness. The results show that the proposed components could be easily integrated in an LFNED with the result of resolution enhancement.
Impact of non‐ideal analyte behavior on the separation of protein aggregates by asymmetric flow field‐flow fractionation
Authors: Boll Björn , Josse Lena , Heubach Anja , Hochenauer Sophie , Finkler Christof , Huwyler Jörg , Koulov Atanas V.
Published: April 2018

Asymmetric flow field‐flow fractionation is a valuable tool for the characterization of protein aggregates in biotechnology owing to its broad size range and unique separation principle. However, in practice asymmetric flow field‐flow fractionation is non‐trivial to use due to the major deviations from theory and the influence on separation by various factors that are not fully understood. Here, we report methods to assess the non‐ideal effects that influence asymmetric flow field‐flow fractionation separation and for the first time identify experimentally the main factors that impact it. Furthermore, we propose new approaches to minimize such non‐ideal behavior, showing that by adjusting the mobile phase composition (pH and ionic strength) the resolution of asymmetric flow field‐flow fractionation separation can be drastically improved. Additionally, we propose a best practice method for new proteins.
Transforming the future of health together: The Learning Health Systems Consensus Action Plan
Authors: Rubin Joshua C. , Silverstein Jonathan C. , Friedman Charles P. , Kush Rebecca D. , Anderson W. Holt , Lichter Allen S. , Humphreys Darin J. , Brown Jeffrey , Crawford Laura , Walker James M. , Tannen Richard L. , Berry Kate , Hamilton Lopez Marianne , Kolodner Robert M. , Marchibroda Janet M. , Rockhold Frank W.
Published: April 2018

The Learning Health Community is an emergent global multistakeholder grassroots incipient movement bonded together by a set of consensus Core Values Underlying a National‐Scale Person‐Centered Continuous Learning Health System developed at the 2012 Learning Health System (LHS) Summit. The Learning Health Community's Second LHS Summit was convened on December 8 to 9, 2016 building upon LHS efforts taking shape in order to achieve consensus on actions that, if taken, will advance LHSs and the LHS vision from what remain appealing concepts to a working reality for improving the health of individuals and populations globally. An iterative half‐year collaborative revision process following the Second LHS Summit led to the development of the Learning Health Systems Consensus Action Plan.
Photocrosslinking of Sulfonated Poly(arylene ether ketone)s in a Hydrated State to Obtain Proton Exchange Membranes with High Performance
Authors: Yan Shijing , Zhong Zhenxin , Li Xiang‐Dan , Wen Pushan , Zhang Haining , Li Lizhong , He Rui , Zhang Aiqing , Lee Myong‐Hoon
Published: April 2018

Novel sulfonated poly(arylene ether ketone)s (SCKs) containing photosensitive chalcone units in the main chain are synthesized by polycondensation of 4,4′‐dihydroxylchalcone, perfluorobiphenyl, and sodium 5,5′‐carbonyl bis(2‐fluorobenzenesulfonate). Photocrosslinking of SCK membranes in a hydrated state is implemented under UV irradiation, and characterization by UV–vis and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic techniques. The crosslinked structure formed in hydrated membranes endows crosslinked SCK membranes with desired properties, such as the greatly improved dimensional and chemical stabilities, relative better mechanical properties and thermal stability, without sacrificing proton conductivity of them. Proton conductivity of crosslinked SCK membranes only drops by 2.7–14%, and reaches 215 mS cm−1at 80 °C, which is higher than that of Nafion117 (163 mS cm−1). Atomic force microscopy and small angle X‐ray scattering analysis verify that the photocrosslinked strategy of SCK membranes in a hydrated state could well preserve percolated hydrophilic channels in membranes and give crosslinked SCK membranes high performance desirable for proton exchange membrane.
Shear‐Induced Skin‐Core Structure of Molten Isotactic Polypropylene and the Formation of β‐Crystal
Authors: Pan Yamin , Guo Xiaobei , Zheng Guoqiang , Liu Chuntai , Chen Qiang , Shen Changyu , Liu Xianhu
Published: April 2018

The study of crystallization behavior and crystalline morphology of polymer melt under shear flow is of great interest due to the strong effect of flow field on the final properties of polymer products in the practical processing. In this respect, the shearing hot stage provides a unique tool which monitors sensitively the changes in crystalline structure induced by precise experimental conditions. Herein, the impacts of both melting temperature and shear rate on the crystallization behavior of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) melt are investigated. Under static conditions, there are only random spherulite structures. Once shear is involved, the cylindrite‐layers appear near both surfaces of the sample, which is consistent with the skin‐core structure in the injection molded parts. Meanwhile, the β‐crystals can be developed and are related to the molecular orientation, depending on the applied melting temperatures and shear rates. More interestingly, the crystallinity of β‐crystal in the pure iPP can reach 15%. The above results indicate that the melting temperature and shear rate are important factors in determining the β‐form crystal development of iPP matrix.
Shape Memory Hydrogels with Simultaneously Switchable Fluorescence Behavior
Authors: Jian Yu‐kun , Le Xiao‐xia , Zhang Yu‐chong , Lu Wei , Wang Li , Zheng Jing , Zhang Jia‐wei , Huang You‐ju , Chen Tao
Published: April 2018

Realization of shape memory process in polymeric hydrogels at ambient condition is a significant development to shape memory materials. The sound understanding of the dynamic shape memory process is fundamentally important but limited. Here, a novel shape memory hydrogel with simultaneously switchable fluorescence behavior is developed. The hydrogel is prepared by incorporating a pH‐responsive fluorescent molecule, perylene tetracarboxylic acid, into chitosan‐based hydrogel, and the assembly and disassembly of chitosan chains into microcrystals upon the trigger of pH are applied as reversible crosslinks to achieve shape memory effect. Therefore, the formation and disassociation of microcrystalline chitosan, and the switchable fluorescence performance happen concurrently, which bring convenience to monitoring the shape memory process by fluorescent imaging. Moreover, the erasable fluorescence behavior also gives the hydrogel potential applications in information storage.
Connexin 43 coupling in bovine cumulus cells, during the follicular growth phase, and its relationship to in vitro embryo outcomes
Authors: Read Casey C. , Willhelm Gabby , Dyce Paul W.
Published: April 2018

Gap junctional coupling between cumulus cells is required for oocytes to reach developmental competence. Multiple connexins, which form these gap junctions, have been found within the ovarian follicles of several species including bovine. The aim of this study was to determine the role of connexin 43 (CX43) and its relationship to embryo development, after in vitro fertilization (IVF). Cumulus−oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from abattoir sourced, mixed breed, bovine ovaries. COCs were isolated from follicles ranging from 2 to 5 mm in size, representing the preselected follicle pool. Immediately after isolation, two cumulus cell biopsies were collected and stored for analysis pending determination of developmental outcomes. Using in vitro procedures, COCs were individually matured, fertilized, and cultured to the blastocyst stage. Biopsies were grouped as originating from COCs that arrested at the two‐cell stage (low developmental competence [LDC]) or having developed to the late morula/blastocyst stage (high developmental competence [HDC]), after IVF and embryo culture. The expression level of CX43 was found to be significantly higher in cumulus cells from COCs that had an HDC when compared with those that had an LDC. Moreover, the gap junctional intercellular coupling rate was significantly higher in cumulus from COCs deemed to have an HDC. Significantly higher expression of the cumulus health markers luteinizing hormone receptor and cytochrome p450 19A1 was found in the cumulus originating from oocytes with HDC, suggesting that this system may provide a mechanism for noninvasively testing for oocyte health in preselected bovine follicles.
Krylov eigenvalue strategy using the FEAST algorithm with inexact system solves
Authors: Gavin Brendan , Polizzi Eric
Published: April 2018

The FEAST eigenvalue algorithm is a subspace iteration algorithm that uses contour integration to obtain the eigenvectors of a matrix for the eigenvalues that are located in any user‐defined region in the complex plane. By computing small numbers of eigenvalues in specific regions of the complex plane, FEAST is able to naturally parallelize the solution of eigenvalue problems by solving for multiple eigenpairs simultaneously. The traditional FEAST algorithm is implemented by directly solving collections of shifted linear systems of equations; in this paper, we describe a variation of the FEAST algorithm that uses iterative Krylov subspace algorithms for solving the shifted linear systems inexactly. We show that this iterative FEAST algorithm (which we call IFEAST) is mathematically equivalent to a block Krylov subspace method for solving eigenvalue problems. By using Krylov subspaces indirectly through solving shifted linear systems, rather than directly using them in projecting the eigenvalue problem, it becomes possible to use IFEAST to solve eigenvalue problems using very large dimension Krylov subspaces without ever having to store a basis for those subspaces. IFEAST thus combines the flexibility and power of Krylov methods, requiring only matrix–vector multiplication for solving eigenvalue problems, with the natural parallelism of the traditional FEAST algorithm. We discuss the relationship between IFEAST and more traditional Krylov methods and provide numerical examples illustrating its behavior.
An implicit scheme for singularly perturbed parabolic problem with retarded terms arising in computational neuroscience
Authors: Kumar Devendra
Published: April 2018

A class of time‐dependent singularly perturbed convection‐diffusion problems with retarded terms arising in computational neuroscience is considered. In particular, a numerical scheme for the parabolic convection‐diffusion problem where the second‐order derivative with respect to the spatial direction is multiplied by a small perturbation parameter and the shifts are of is constructed. The Taylor series expansion is used to tackle the shift terms. The continuous problem is semidiscretized using the Crank‐Nicolson finite difference method in the temporal direction and the resulting set of ordinary differential equations is discretized using a midpoint upwind finite difference scheme on an appropriate piecewise uniform mesh, which is dense in the boundary layer region. It is shown that the proposed numerical scheme is second‐order accurate in time and almost first‐order accurate in space with respect to the perturbation parameter . To validate the computational results and efficiency of the method some numerical examples are encountered and the numerical results are compared with some existing results. It is observed that the numerical approximations are fairly good irrespective of the size of the delay and the advance till they are of . The effect of the shifts on the boundary layer has also been observed.
An exponential time differencing method of lines for the Burgers and the modified Burgers equations
Authors: Bratsos Athanassios G. , Khaliq Abdul Q. M.
Published: April 2018

A second–order exponential time differencing scheme using the method of lines is developed in this article for the numerical solution of the Burgers and the modified Burgers equations. For each case, the resulting nonlinear system is solved explicitly using a modified predictor‐corrector method. The efficiency of the method introduced is tested by comparing experimental results with others selected from the available literature.
Development and analysis of Crank‐Nicolson scheme for metamaterial Maxwell's equations on nonuniform rectangular grids
Authors: Wang Xiang , Li Jichun , Fang Zhiwei
Published: April 2018

In this paper, we develop a fully implicit scheme on staggered grids to solve the Maxwell's equations when Drude metamaterial is involved. Unconditional stability and optimal error estimate of the scheme are proved. Numerical results are provided to support the theoretical analysis, and used to demonstrate the applicability of the scheme to simulate the complicated backward wave propagation phenomenon occurring in metamaterials.
Gap metric–based model bank construction for wind turbine predictive control
Authors: Li Dewen , Chen Zhe , Li Ning
Published: April 2018

This paper presents a novel model bank construction method for the multiple model predictive control of wind turbine system. The gap metric is used to measure the dynamic difference between the linearized models of the wind turbine system at different wind speed. Two algorithms are then proposed to divide the wind speed range in different operating regions. Meanwhile, a complete and nonredundant linear model bank is established to approximate the wind turbine system in the whole operating region. We take the robust model predictive control algorithm to design the local controller and utilize the wind speed as the switching criterion to combine the submodels. The simulation study on a 5‐MW wind turbine verifies the efficiency of the proposed method.
Scaffold Diversity Synthesis Delivers Complex, Structurally, and Functionally Distinct Tetracyclic Benzopyrones
Authors: Sankar Muthukumar G. , Roy Sayantani , Tran Tuyen Thi Ngoc , Wittstein Kathrin , Bauer Jonathan O. , Strohmann Carsten , Ziegler Slava , Kumar Kamal
Published: April 2018

Complexity‐generating chemical transformations that afford novel molecular scaffolds enriched in sp3 character are highly desired. Here, we present a highly stereoselective scaffold diversity synthesis approach that utilizes cascade double‐annulation reactions of diverse pairs of zwitterionic and non‐zwitterionic partners with 3‐formylchromones to generate highly complex tetracyclic benzopyrones. Each pair of annulation partners adds to the common chroman‐4‐one scaffold to build two new rings, supporting up to four contiguous chiral centers that include an all‐carbon quaternary center. Differently ring‐fused benzopyrones display different biological activities, thus demonstrating their immense potential in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology research.