bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Differentiation of Rat Seminiferous Tubular Segments from Defined Stages of the Epithelial Cycle Morphologic and Immunolocalization Analysis
Authors: TOPPARI JORMA , PARVINEN MARTTI
Published: December 2015

Rat seminiferous tubule segments have been cultured in chemically defined medium (F12/DMEM 1:1) without added hormones or growth factors. The segments (1–2 mm) were isolated from defined stages of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium (VIII and XII) by transillumination‐assisted microdissection. The precise stages were examined by phase contrast microscopy of live cells squashed carefully out from the adjacent segments between glass slides. The squash technique was also used for a primary screening of the cultured tubules. Pachytene primary spermatocytes from stages VIII to XII of the cycle were able to complete meiotic divisions in vitro. From stage XII, they differentiated up to step 5 spermatids, expressed their specific antigens, and developed characteristic movement patterns of the flagellum and of the chromatoid body. Preleptotene and zygotene spermatocytes from the same cell association differentiated synchronously, as judged by chromosome morphology, characteristic chromosome rotation in zygotene and early pachytene, and by development of specific antigen expression. The elongation phase of spermiogenesis did not proceed normally in vitro. The rate of differentiation was the same as observed earlier in vivo. Earlier studies with [3H]thymidine labeling and autoradiography only permitted follow‐up of the development of preleptotene spermatocytes. With the present method, all stages of spermatogenesis can be traced in culture with great accuracy in experiments relating to local regulation of spermatogenesis.
Heterogeneity of Sperm Density Profiles Following 16‐Week Therapy with Continuous Infusion of High‐dose LHRH Analog Plus Testosterone
Authors: PAVLOU SPYROS N. , INTERLANDI JOHN W. , WAKEFIELD GAIL , RIVIER JEAN , VALE WYLIE , RABIN DAVID
Published: December 2015

LHRH agonist analogs have been investigated as potential male contraceptives. It has been shown that the LHRH agonistic analog [D‐Trp6,Pro9‐NEt] LHRH (LHRHA) given to men in single doses up to 500 μg daily for up to 20 weeks with the coadministration of testosterone enanthate produces reversible oligozoospermia. Individual responses to the treatment, however, were variable. In this study, we gave the same analog to eight normal male volunteers as a continuous infusion of 500 μg daily for 16 weeks. Testosterone enanthate, 100 mg, was given by injection every second week. Six of the subjects became oligozoospermic but the other two retained sperm counts that were greater than 20 million/ml, although their treatment continued for 20 weeks. The reasons for this variability of response are not clear. Serum immunoreactive LH values increased during the infusion period whereas testosterone declined. FSH values fell during treatment in all subjects except the two non‐responders. The acute pituitary response to LHRHA during the treatment or shortly thereafter (48 h) was completely abolished, and bioactive LH values were suppressed totally. FSH, LH, testosterone and sperm counts returned to normal in all subjects following discontinuation of LHRHA infusion. Continuous infusion of 500 μg of LHRHA daily for 16 weeks with 100 mg of testosterone enanthate every 2 weeks induced densensitization of the pituitary, loss of LH bioactivity, and decreases of FSH and testosterone. This mode of administration, however, did not improve sperm density results obtained earlier by single daily injections of the analog. Heterogeneity of sperm density profiles still persists for reasons that are not yet clear.
Sexual Maturation in Underfed Weight‐matched Rats A Test of the “Critical Body Weight” Theory of Pubertal Timing in Males
Authors: GLASS ALLAN R. , ANDERSON JEFFREY , HERBERT DAMON
Published: December 2015

A popular current theory proposes that the timing of puberty is related to attainment of a critical level of body weight or body fatness. These critical body weight and critical body fat theories have been studied almost exclusively in females. To explore these theories in males, we tested a corollary of these hypotheses: are male rats of the same weight all at the same level of sexual maturation irrespective of prior growth rate? Male rats growing in body weight at five different rates due to various degrees of underfeeding (beginning at weaning) were sacrificed at body weight milestones of 123 and 279 grams. At the first weight milestone, significant (P < 0.01) inverse correlations were observed among these weight‐matched rats between the preceding rate of body weight growth and prostate weight, seminal vesicle weight, testis weight, serum testosterone, and daily sperm production rate, indicating that the underfed animals were more sexually mature. Testis histology also showed that spermatogenic development increased progressively as the prior rate of body weight growth was reduced. These parameters of sexual maturation tended to correlate inversely with body fatness (i.e., leaner animals were more sexually mature) and directly with body length (i.e., longer animals were more sexually mature). By the second body weight milestone, however, the degree of prior underfeeding exerted little effect on those indices of sexual development. We conclude that the degree of sexual maturation in weight‐matched animals with varying previous patterns of body weight growth correlates inversely with body fatness and the rate of body weight growth but correlates directly with body length. These findings would not support either the critical body weight or critical body fatness theories of pubertal timing in underfed male rats and suggest that body length or chronologic age may be related more closely to sexual development than either body weight or fatness.
Effects of Chronic Sulpiride‐Induced Hyperprolactinemia on Plasma Testosterone and Its Responses to hCG in Normal Men
Authors: OSEKO FUMIMARO , OKA NOBUYUKI , FURUYA HIROSHI , MORIKAWA KEIKO
Published: December 2015

To elucidate the effects of sulpiride‐induced (300 mg daily) long‐term (64 days) hyperprolactinemia on basal and hCG‐stimulated plasma testosterone (T), hCG was given to five normal men five times at 2‐week intervals (before sulpiride administration and at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks). Mean integrated hCG responses of plasma T did not change significantly as compared with baseline. However, mean (± SEM) basal plasma levels of T decreased significantly (P < 0.05) from 1011 ± 148 ng/dl to 852 ± 13 at 2 weeks, 520 ± 53 at 4 weeks, 572 ± 137 at 6 weeks and 554 ± 140 at 8 weeks. These results suggest that sulpiride‐induced hyperprolactinemia (73.8 ng/ml, the average of mean values obtained at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks) for 64 days does not suppress secretion of T in response to hCG in spite of a decrease in basal plasma T concentrations. It is unlikely that the low concentrations of plasma T are due to direct effects of hyperprolactinemia on the testis.
Effects of Ethanol Consumption on the Morphology of the Rat Seminiferous Epithelium
Authors: WEINBERG JOANNE , VOGL A. WAYNE
Published: December 2015

The effects of ethanol consumption on the morphology of the seminiferous epithelium, with particular emphasis on Sertoli cell ultrastructure, were examined during and following pubertal development. Sprague‐Dawley rats were maintained on chronically high levels of ethanol for 7 weeks beginning at 29 days of age. Animals in Group 1 were fed a liquid diet containing ethanol (36% ethanol‐derived calories) ad libitum. Group 2 animals were paired with animals in Group 1 and fed a liquid control diet in the amount consumed by their ethanol partners (g/kg body wt/day). Animals in Group 3 were fed Purina rodent chow ad libitum. Blood samples were collected at 60 days for determination of plasma testosterone levels. On day 79, each epididymis, the adrenals and the right testis were removed from anesthetized animals and weighed; the left testis was removed and processed for light and electron microscopy.

Blood alcohol levels were consistently high throughout the feeding period, averaging 272.6 ± 9.7 mg/100 ml at 1900 hours (1 hour after lights off) and 178.8 ± 20.8 mg/100 ml at 1330 hours. Testosterone levels were lower in ethanol‐consuming animals than in pair‐fed or control subjects. Testis weight was also somewhat reduced in ethanol‐consuming animals; however, when adjusted for body weight, relative testis weights were found to be increased in ethanol and pair‐fed animals. Epididymal weights were reduced in both ethanol and pair‐fed animals. Relative adrenal weights were increased by ethanol.

The most dramatic effect of ethanol consumption was on the morphology of the seminiferous tubules. Although intercellular junctions appeared intact in all groups, there was a dramatic increase in lipid at the base of Sertoli cells in alcohol‐fed animals. Lipid was also observed in spermatogenic cells. Pair‐fed animals were similar to controls. Lipid accumulation may be indicative of ethanol‐induced damage to Sertoli cells and/or the associated germ cells.
Indomethacin and Oxaprozin Lower Seminal Prostaglandin Levels But Do Not Influence Sperm Motion Characteristics and Serum Hormones of Young Healthy Men in a Placebo‐Controlled Double‐Blind Trial
Authors: KNUTH ULRICH A. , KÜHNE JOACHIM , CROSBY JOHN , BALS‐PRATSCH MONIKA , KELLY RODNEY W. , NIESCHLAG EBERHARD
Published: December 2015

To evaluate the influence of indomethacin and oxaprozin on reproductive function in healthy young men, 34 volunteers with normal semen parameters were recruited. In a randomized double‐blind design, 12 men were treated with placebo, 12 received 600 mg/day of oxaprozin and 10 took indomethacin 25 mg t.i.d. This treatment phase lasted for 14 days after which a follow‐up period extended for another 10 weeks. Sperm counts, percentage of motile and normally formed sperm cells, sperm velocity, linearity, lateral head displacement and beat frequency were evaluated by computerized image analysis once before treatment and at weekly intervals during the rest of the study. Prostaglandin levels in seminal plasma were significantly reduced after 2 weeks of treatment and remained suppressed for at least 2 additional weeks. In spite of this long lasting impairment of physiologic prostaglandin concentrations, no changes in any of the measured parameters were detectable when compared with the placebo group. Basal levels of testosterone, estradiol, LH, FSH, TSH and prolactin were unchanged. The response of hypophyseal hormones to a combined GnRH/ TRH test before, during and after the treatment also was not affected. Overall, no negative influence of indomethacin or oxaprozin treatment on male reproductive function could be found in healthy volunteers. Since the active treatment phase was only 14 days, one can only speculate about long term effects of the tested drugs on reproductive parameters in men.
Analysis of the Relationship Between Defective Sperm Function and the Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species in Cases of Oligozoospermia
Authors: AITKEN R. JOHN , CLARKSON JANE S. , HARGREAVE TIMOTHY B. , IRVINE D. STEWART , WU FREDERICK C. W.
Published: December 2015

The ability of human spermatozoa to exhibit sperm‐oocyte fusion in response to the ionophore, A23187, was examined in relation to the capacity of these cells to generate reactive oxygen species. In 70 fertile control donors, there was an overwhelming pattern of high levels of sperm‐oocyte fusion associated with low levels of reactive oxygen species production. By contrast, 88% of the 74 oligozoospermic patients exhibited < 25% oocyte penetration in response to A23187 and 58% exhibited no penetration whatsoever. Of the 40 oligozoospermic patients who failed to respond to A23187, nine had low levels of reactive oxygen species production in association with impaired liquefaction of seminal plasma. Of the remainder, 17 (55%) exhibited defective sperm function together with elevated production of reactive oxygen species. These observations, which are the first to describe a biochemical defect in the spermatozoa of oligozoospermic patients, may carry significant implications for the etiology and treatment of this condition.
The Automated Analysis of Rat Sperm Motility Following Subchronic Epichlorohydrin Administration: Methodologic and Statistical Considerations
Authors: TOTH GREGORY P. , STOBER JUDY A. , READ ELEANOR J. , ZENICK HAROLD , SMITH M. KATE
Published: December 2015

The automated analysis of sperm motion endpoints is potentially useful in identifying male reproductive toxicants and ultimately in predicting fertility in humans. The present study was designed to evaluate the automated analysis of rat sperm motility characteristics following subchronic administration of epichlorohydrin. This type of validation is a prerequisite for inclusion of sperm motion measurements in the process of reproductive risk assessment. In the present studies videotapes were made of cauda epididymal spermatozoa from Long‐Evans rats, both untreated and treated with epichlorohydrin. From analysis of videotapes of control epididymal spermatozoa, the relationship of various sperm motion endpoints and settings of the CellSoft computer‐assisted sperm motion analysis system (Cryo Resources, Ltd., New York, NY) is described. Optimal settings of the system for analysis of rat spermatozoa are detailed. Employing data from both control and epichlorohydrin‐treated animals, a statistical methodology is described that evaluates: (1) the distributions of CellSoft generated sperm motion endpoints, (2) the correlations between these endpoints, and (3) techniques for detection of dose‐related effects.
Immunobiology of a Synthetic Luteinizing Hormone Receptor Peptide 21–41
Authors: MOUDGAL N.R. , KRISHNAMURTHY H.N. , SUREKHA S. , KRISHNAMURTHY H. , DHOPLE V.M. , NAGARAJ R. , SAIRAM M.R.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Immunization of adult male rabbits with a synthetic luteinizing hormone‐receptor peptide (LH‐RP; representing amino‐acids 21–41 of the extracellular domain of the rat LH receptor) resulted in production of high‐titer antibodies capable of interacting with particulate and cell‐based LH receptors. The antibody produced was able to inhibit binding of 125I‐labeled human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to a particulate sheep luteal LH receptor preparation by 40%‐50%. Maximal inhibitory activity was correlated with high antibody titer. Immunocytometry revealed that the antibody could directly bind to cells having LH receptors, such as rat granulosa and Leydig cells. The antibodies recognized a 77‐kilodalton membrane protein in Western blots of mouse testicular extracts. Interaction of endogenous Leydig cell LH receptor with the LH‐RP antibody resulted in both hormone agonist and antagonistic activities. The hormone‐mimicking activity (increase in serum testosterone over control) was confined only to the early phase of immunization when the antibody titer was low. Blockade of LH receptor during the later part of immunization resulted in a significant reduction in serum testosterone over controls and inhibition of spermatogenesis. DNA flow cytometry showed that a specific and significant inhibition of meiosis (transformation of primary spermatocytes to round and elongated spermatids P < .01) and spermiogenesis (transformation of round spermatids to elongated spermatids P < .0001) occurred following blockade of LH function.
Daily Testosterone and Gonadotropin Levels Are Similar in Azoospermic and Nonazoospermic Normal Men Administered Weekly Testosterone: Implications for Male Contraceptive Development
Authors: AMORY JOHN K. , ANAWALT BRADLEY D. , BREMNER WILLIAM J. , MATSUMOTO ALVIN M.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Weekly intramuscular administration of testosterone esters such as testosterone enanthate (TE) suppresses gonadotropins and spermatogenesis and has been studied as a male contraceptive. For unknown reasons, however, some men fail to achieve azoospermia with such regimens. We hypothesized that either 1) daily circulating serum fluoroimmunoreactive gonadotropins were higher or testosterone levels were lower during the weekly injection interval, or 2) monthly circulating bioactive gonadotropin levels were higher in nonazoospermic men. We therefore analyzed daily testosterone and fluoroimmunoreactive gonadotropin levels as well as pooled monthly bioactive and fluoroimmunoreactive gonadotropin levels in normal men receiving chronic TE injections and correlated these levels with sperm production. After a 3‐month control period, 51 normal men were randomly assigned to receive intramuscular TE at 25 mg (n = 10), 50 mg (n = 9), 100 mg (n = 10), 300 mg (n = 10), or placebo (n = 12) weekly for 6 months. After 5 months of testosterone administration, morning testosterone and fluoroimmunoreactive follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were measured daily for a 1‐week period between TE injections. In addition, fluoroimmunoreactive and bioactive FSH and LH levels were measured in pooled monthly blood samples drawn just before the next TE injection. In the 100‐mg and 300‐mg TE groups, mean monthly fluoroimmunoreactive FSH and LH levels were suppressed by 86%‐97%, bioactive FSH and LH levels by 62%‐80%, and roughly half the subjects became azoospermic. In the 1‐week period of month 6, daily testosterone levels between TE injections were within the normal range in men receiving placebo, or 25 or 50 mg of weekly TE, but were significantly elevated in men receiving 100 or 300 mg of weekly TE. At no point during treatment, however, were there significant differences in daily testosterone or fluoroimmunoreactive gonadotropin levels, or monthly bioactive gonadotropin levels between men achieving azoospermia and those with persistent spermatogenesis. This study, therefore, demonstrates that neither monthly nor daily differences in serum testosterone, or fluoroimmunoreactive or bioactive gonadotropins explain why some men fail to completely suppress their sperm counts to zero with weekly TE administration. Innate differences in the testicle's ability to maintain spermatogenesis in a low‐gonadotropin environment may explain persistent spermatogenesis in some men treated with androgen‐based contraceptive regimens.
Autologous Tunica Vaginalis and Subcapsular Orchiectomy: A Hormonal Therapy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Vickers Martyn A. , Lamontagne Donald P. , Guru Khurshid A. , Satyanarayana Ramgopal K. , Vickers Kristin E. , Menon Mani
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Two novel surgical procedures that combine an autologous tunica vaginalis pedicle graft (TVG) with a subcapsular orchiectomy (SCOT) were evaluated in asymptomatic patients with rising prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) values following radiation therapy, a radical retropubic prostatectomy, or a newly diagnosed prostatic cancer with bony metastasis. In the SCOT I procedure, the TVG was secured to the inner wall of the tunica albuginea. In the SCOT II procedure, the TVG was folded and secured to the external wall of the tunica albuginea. Between December 1, 1999, and July 1, 2000, 26 patients were offered hormonal therapy. Twelve patients selected the SCOT I procedure, 12 selected a luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist, and 2 selected a bilateral total orchiectomy (BTO). Because the cosmetic outcome of the SCOT I procedure was less than ideal, this procedure was modified in December 2001. Between December 1, 2001, and July 1, 2002, 28 hormonal candidates were evaluated. Twelve patients selected the SCOT II procedure, 11 selected an LHRH agonist, and 5 selected a BTO. Preoperative measurements of the testicular area and PSA were obtained. During postoperative visits, the total testosterone, PSA, and testicular area were determined, and the Fugl‐Meyer questionnaire (FMQ) and SCOT‐specific questionnaire (SSQ) were completed. Between March 1, 2000, and December 1, 2002, 10 patients underwent a BTO. This group was the control for the postoperative SCOT total testosterone values. Sixty‐three percent of the mean preoperative testicular area was preserved in the SCOT II group vs 43% in the SCOT I group at the 9‐ to 12‐month visit (P < .01). The mean postoperative total testosterone values for the SCOT I, SCOT II, and BTO groups were in the castrate range. No statistically significant difference was noted between the preoperative and postoperative FMQ scores among the SCOT I and SCOT II groups. Eighty‐three percent of the SCOT II patients experienced no change in masculine identity, and 58% noted no change in testicular size. One hundred percent of the SCOT I patients experienced no change in masculine identity and noted no change in testicular size. The SCOT II procedure preserved a greater testicular area than the SCOT I. Both SCOT procedures achieved castrate levels of total testosterone and maintained masculine identity in 83%–100% of patients.
Phenotypic Characteristics of Male Subfertility and Its Familial Occurrence
Authors: van Golde Ron J. T. , van, Der Avoort Irene A. M. , Tuerlings Joep H. A. M. , Kiemeney Lambertus A. , Meuleman Eric J. H. , Braat Didi D. M. , Kremer Jan A. M.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Genetic factors can attribute to male subfertility. A case‐control study was carried out to investigate familial occurrence of male subfertility and the phenotypic characteristics of familial male subfertility. The medical data and family histories of 253 severely subfertile men who were candidates for intracytoplasmic sperm injection were compared to the data from 243 randomly selected men. The prevalence of male fertility problems among brothers and maternal uncles of subfertile men was significantly higher than among controls (brothers 10.4% vs 0.5% and maternal uncles 1.7% vs 0.2%). The phenotypes of subfertile men with a positive family history more often showed normal levels of follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) compared to the phenotypes of subfertile men with a negative family history. In addition, subfertile men with a positive family history had a lower percentage of motile sperm. Genetic aberrations, including a chromosomal abnormality or a microdeletion of the Y chromosome, were present in 13.8% of the severely subfertile men. Male subfertility appears to have a familial occurrence, especially among brothers and maternal uncles. Furthermore, examinatoin of the data suggests that subfertile men with a familial occurrence of male subfertility more often have normal levels of FSH and LH and a lower percentage of motile sperm.
Clinical Approaches to Conflicts Between Religious Values and Same‐Sex Attractions: Contrasting Gay‐Affirmative, Sexual Identity, and Change‐Oriented Models of Therapy
Authors: Rosik Christopher H. , Popper Paul
Published: December 2015

The literature germane to the care of clients presenting for psychotherapy with conflicts between their sexual orientation and religious values typically addresses the topic from within a particular therapeutic approach. This article addresses the issue from a broader perspective that takes into account 3 different paradigms: gay‐affirmative therapy, sexual identity therapy, and change‐oriented therapy. The authors describe the 3 approaches, compare and contrast them across several different key dimensions of theory and practice, and identify some strengths and potential limitations of each approach for assisting clients who are attempting to navigate the resolution of their conflict.
Uncover the Truly Maximum Profit Opportunity of a Prospective M&A Deal: Next Generation M&A Financial Analysis Capability
Authors: Dybvig Alan
Published: December 2015

By integrating three analytic techniques already in use, separately, for merger and acquisition (M&A) financial analysis, it will be demonstrated that an optimized income statement (OIS) represents a “next generation” financial analysis capability for M&A and private equity portfolio management. The three techniques currently in use are (1) mixed integer and linear math programming (MILP) for least‐cost supply chain design, (2) predictive analytics for sizing and allocating sales and marketing expenditures more profitably, and (3) activity‐based costing (ABC). ABC data availability can substantially reduce the cost and time required to implement the MILP portion of an OIS model. It also improves the profitability of the M&A analysis beyond that available with OIS analyses conducted without ABC detail. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Managing IT Change—Fully Integrated Manufacturing: Impacts on Manufacturing
Authors: Worster Art , Weirich Thomas R. , Andera Frank
Published: December 2015

This article presents some implications for manufacturing functions operating in an integrated business environment. In this case, however, there are often more opportunities than failure points that can be used to define efficiencies and resolve issues between departments. The issue, of course, is that integrated business process designs need to be a collaborative effort of all functions within the organization. The measurement for success or failure needs to be overall organizational efficiency measured by meeting financial expectations. With manufacturing, there are so many connections or at least touch points that each needs to be identified and an optimal solution designed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparing multiple imputation methods for systematically missing subject‐level data
Authors: Kline David , Andridge Rebecca , Kaizar Eloise
Published: December 2015

When conducting research synthesis, the collection of studies that will be combined often do not measure the same set of variables, which creates missing data. When the studies to combine are longitudinal, missing data can occur on the observation‐level (time‐varying) or the subject‐level (non‐time‐varying). Traditionally, the focus of missing data methods for longitudinal data has been on missing observation‐level variables. In this paper, we focus on missing subject‐level variables and compare two multiple imputation approaches: a joint modeling approach and a sequential conditional modeling approach. We find the joint modeling approach to be preferable to the sequential conditional approach, except when the covariance structure of the repeated outcome for each individual has homogenous variance and exchangeable correlation. Specifically, the regression coefficient estimates from an analysis incorporating imputed values based on the sequential conditional method are attenuated and less efficient than those from the joint method. Remarkably, the estimates from the sequential conditional method are often less efficient than a complete case analysis, which, in the context of research synthesis, implies that we lose efficiency by combining studies. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic metabolome profiling reveals significant metabolic changes during grain development of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Zhen Shoumin , Dong Kun , Deng Xiong , Zhou Jiaxing , Xu Xuexin , Han Caixia , Zhang Wenying , Xu Yanhao , Wang Zhimin , Yan Yueming
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND

Metabolites in wheat grains greatly influence nutritional values. Wheat provides proteins, minerals, B‐group vitamins and dietary fiber to humans. These metabolites are important to human health. However, the metabolome of the grain during the development of bread wheat has not been studied so far. In this work the first dynamic metabolome of the developing grain of the elite Chinese bread wheat cultivar Zhongmai 175 was analyzed, using non‐targeted gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for metabolite profiling.

RESULTS

In total, 74 metabolites were identified over the grain developmental stages. Metabolite–metabolite correlation analysis revealed that the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, organic acids, amines and lipids was interrelated. An integrated metabolic map revealed a distinct regulatory profile. The results provide information that can be used by metabolic engineers and molecular breeders to improve wheat grain quality.

CONCLUSION

The present metabolome approach identified dynamic changes in metabolite levels, and correlations among such levels, in developing seeds. The comprehensive metabolic map may be useful when breeding programs seek to improve grain quality. The work highlights the utility of GC/MS‐based metabolomics, in conjunction with univariate and multivariate data analysis, when it is sought to understand metabolic changes in developing seeds. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Conditions for confounding of interactions
Authors: Liu Aihua , Abrahamowicz Michal , Siemiatycki Jack
Published: December 2015

Purpose

Pharmaco‐epidemiology increasingly investigates drug–drug or drug–covariate interactions. Yet, conditions for confounding of interactions have not been elucidated. We explored the conditions under which the estimates of interactions in logistic regression are affected by confounding bias.

Methods

We rely on analytical derivations to investigate the conditions and then use simulations to confirm our analytical results and to quantify the impact of selected parameters on the bias of the interaction estimates.

Results

Failure to adjust for a risk factor U results in a biased estimate of the interaction between exposures E1 and E2 on a binary outcome Y if the association between U and E1 varies depending on the value of E2. The resulting confounding bias increases with increase in the following: (i) prevalence of confounder U; (ii) strength of U–Y association; and (iii) heterogeneity in the association of E1 with U across the strata of E2. A variable that is not a confounder for the main effects of E1 and E2 may still act as an important confounder for their interaction.

Conclusions

Studies of interactions should attempt to identify—as potential confounders—those risk factors whose associations with one of the exposures in the interaction term may be modified by the other exposure. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Les Acides β‐Méthyl‐p‐Méthoxyhydrocinnamique,P‐Méthoxyphényldiméthylacétique, γ‐p‐Méthoxyphényl‐n‐Valérique et α‐Hydroxy‐α‐Méthyl‐γ‐p‐Méthoxyphényl‐n‐Butyrique
Authors: van der Zanden J. M.
Published: December 2015

En prévision des recherches sur la structure des polymères du méthylchavicole, CH3O ·. C6H4· CH2CH: CH21) et de ceux de l'anéthole, CH3O · C6H4· CH: CH · CH22), nous avons pensé qu'il était utile de connaître les substances mentionnées ci‐dessus. C'est pourquoi nous les avons synthétisées.
Crystal and molecular structure of N‐acetyl N‐hydroxy α‐amino acids
Authors: Busetti V. , Ottenheijm H. C. J. , Zeegers H. J. M. , Ajò D. , Casarin M.
Published: December 2015

The crystal and molecular structures of racemic (DL) N‐acetyl‐N‐hydroxyvaline and 2‐(N‐acetyl‐N‐hydroxyamino)butyric acid have been determined from three‐dimensional X‐ray data. The crystals of both compounds are monoclinic, space group P21/a.

The molecular conformation of these amino acid derivatives is similar, as far as the Φ torsion angle is concerned, but the ψ values are significantly different. In the crystal structures of both compounds, two series of intermolecular hydrogen bonds (HB's) are present: NOH…O  COH HB's link the N‐hydroxy and carboxylic groups, while OCOH…OCN HB's link the carboxylic and N‐hydroxyamidic groups.
Hetero‐metallic clusters. Synthesis and characterization of [PtAu8 (PPh3)8] (NO3)2 and [HPtAu7(PPh3)8](NO3)2
Authors: Bour J. J. , Kanters R. P. F. , Schlebos P. P. J. , Bosman W. P. , Behm H. , Beurskens P. T. , Steggerda J. J.
Published: December 2015

Two new mixed Pt‐Au cluster compounds are reported. In PtAu8(PPh3)82+ a central Pt is surrounded by 8 Au atoms, each of which is bonded to a phosphine. This cluster ion can be reduced in two reversible steps to the +1 ion and the neutral state respectively. In HPtAu7(PPh3)82+ all the metal atoms are bonded to a phosphine and the Pt also to a hydride. These clusters can be interconverted in simple reactions.
Further results on finite‐time consensus of second‐order multi‐agent systems without velocity measurements
Authors: Liu Xiaoyang , Chen Michael Z. Q. , Du Haibo , Yang Shaofu
Published: December 2015

This paper investigates the problem of finite‐time consensus (FTC) for second‐order nonlinear multi‐agent systems when the velocity information is unavailable. Based on the global finite‐time stability theory and homogeneity with dilation, a class of novel finite‐time consensus protocols are proposed for the multi‐agent systems. The protocol design is divided into two parts. First, when all the state information of the agents are measurable, a new continuous state feedback is designed to achieve FTC. Then, when the velocity information is unmeasurable, two finite‐time convergent discontinuous observers are presented to estimate the velocities of the followers and the leader, respectively, which further ensure the final FTC for the multi‐agent systems. Finally, one example is given to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Small is Smarter: Nano MRI Contrast Agents – Advantages and Recent Achievements
Authors: Gao Zhenyu , Ma Tiancong , Zhao Enyu , Docter Dominic , Yang Wensheng , Stauber Roland H. , Gao Mingyuan
Published: December 2015

Many challenges for advanced sensitive and noninvasive clinical diagnostic imaging remain unmatched. In particular, the great potential of magnetic nano‐probes is intensively discussed to further improve the performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), especially for cancer diagnosis. Based on recent achievements, here the concepts of magnetic nanoparticle‐based MRI contrast agents and tumor‐specific imaging probes are critically summarized. Advances in their synthesis, biocompatible chemical and biofunctional surface modifications, and current strategies for further developing them into multimodality imaging probes are discussed. In addition, how engineered versus unintended surface coatings such as protein coronas affect the biocompatibility and performance of MRI nano‐probes is also considered. To stimulate progress in the field, future strategies and relevant challenges that still need to be resolved in the field conclude this review.
Mechanical Properties and Anisotropies of 0.2% Carbon Steel with Bimodal Microstructure Subjected to Heavy‐Reduction Controlled‐Rolling Process
Authors: Park Hyung‐Won , Shimojima Kei , Sugiyama Sumio , Komine Hisanao , Yanagimoto Jun
Published: December 2015

The mechanical properties, anisotropies, and fracture behavior of 0.2% carbon steel sheets produced by a heavy‐reduction single‐pass controlled‐rolling process with approximately 75% thickness reduction are investigated via a tensile test, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, and electron backscattering diffraction. The 900‐ and 1000 °C‐heated specimens with less well‐developed textures show relatively homogeneous anisotropies, whereas the 700‐ and 800 °C‐heated specimens show strong V‐shaped anisotropies, where the relative strength decreases and the relative elongation increases at 45° from the rolling direction in comparison with other directions. The uniform and total elongations of the 900‐ and 1000 °C‐heated specimens in their rolling direction of roughly 12–14% and 23–28% are higher than those of the 700‐ and 800 °C‐heated specimens, respectively, while maintaining high strength (610–670 MPa), as clarified from the nominal stress–strain curves. Additionally, the bimodal structure on the fracture surface consisting of submicron‐size (<1 μm) and fine (2–5 μm) dimples lead to higher ductility while retaining outstanding strength. This is attributed to the submicron‐size grains having excessive strength and the micron‐size grains having high ductility.
Factors Affecting Hospital Mortality in Patients with Esophagogastric Anastomotic Leak: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Bin , Xiang Jiaqing , Zhang Yawei , Hu Hong , Sun Yihua , Chen Haiquan
Published: December 2015

Objective

We aimed to clarify the association between anastomotic leak and leak‐associated mortality to assist decision‐making and reduce hospital mortality.

Background

Anastomotic leak is a common complication after esophagectomy, but the nature of its relationship to leak‐associated mortality has not been established.

Methods

A retrospective review of all esophagogastric anastomotic leaks that had occurred between 2008 and 2012 at our institution (n = 246) was performed. Risk factors for leak‐associated mortality were determined using a multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

Of the 246 patients with anastomotic leaks, 14 (5.7 %) died. Leak‐associated mortality rates were similar regardless of anastomosis location (cervical vs. thoracic anastomosis), surgical approaches (retrosternal vs. prevertebral reconstruction route) and anastomotic techniques (hand‐sewn vs. mechanical anastomosis). When a leak occurred, risk factors for leak‐associated mortality as determined by multivariate logistic analysis included patient age >60 years (P = 0.029) and the occurrence of the leak within 1 week of surgery (P = 0.039). When disease worsened after treatment, leak‐associated mortality was more frequent in patients requiring reintubation (25.6 vs. 1.4 %, P < 0.001). Fatal bleeding and sepsis were the most common causes of leak‐associated mortality.

Conclusion

In patients with anastomotic leaks, patient age >60 years and the occurrence of the leak within 1 week of surgery were risk factors for leak‐associated mortality. Increased efforts to reduce the incidence of early anastomotic leaks within 1 week after surgery and prevent the need for reintubation are important for improving patient prognosis.
Evaluation of the First Year of National Reporting on a New Healthcare Personnel Influenza Vaccination Performance Measure by US Hospitals
Authors: Dolan Samantha B. , Kalayil Elizabeth J. , Lindley Megan C. , Ahmed Faruque
Published: December 2015

One thousand hospitals were surveyed on a new measure of healthcare personnel influenza vaccination for the 2012–2013 influenza season. Facilities found it easier to collect data on employees than nonemployees; larger facilities reported more challenges than smaller facilities. Barriers may decrease over time as facilities become accustomed to the measure.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2016;37(2):222–225
Using Mindfulness To Improve High Potential Development
Authors: Ruderman Marian N. , Clerkin Cathleen
Published: December 2015

Hyland, Lee, and Mills (2015) have provided a thorough and much needed overview of the construct of mindfulness within the context of industrial and organizational (I-O) psychology and have offered several reasons why mindfulness programs should be considered in the workplace. In this commentary, we focus on their suggestion that mindfulness may improve the development of high potentials through enhanced self-awareness. We agree that mindfulness is likely an effective tool to help high potentials succeed in an increasingly complex world. We come to this conclusion after conducting a rigorous review of the literature and talking to experts (Ruderman, Clerkin, & Connolly, 2014), learning various forms of mindfulness including completing the mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program, and our experiences conducting applied leadership research at the Center for Creative Leadership—a 45-year-old organization devoted exclusively to leadership development.
Big Data Recommendations for Industrial–Organizational Psychology: Are We in Whoville?
Authors: Rotolo Christopher T. , Church Allan H.
Published: December 2015

Guzzo, Fink, King, Tonidandel, and Landis's (2015) focal article was intended to be not a set of standards but instead “stepping stones” to “raise awareness and provide direction” (p. 492) to our field for working with big data. We believe that the work done by the authors successfully achieved those objectives, and we encourage the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) Executive Committee to keep advancing this work toward greater clarity and guidance. Having clear alignment among members of our field and guidelines for handling nebulous issues such as big data is an important aspect of the scientist–practitioner model.
Some Key Research Questions for Mindfulness Interventions
Authors: Castille Christopher , Sawyer Katina , Thoroughgood Christian , Buckner V John
Published: December 2015

For industrial and organizational psychologists who are unfamiliar with the mindfulness literature, Hyland, Lee, and Mills (2015) nicely introduce the concept by highlighting key findings from prior studies. Although their review focuses on the many benefits of mindfulness, we believe that mindfulness research should address certain questions that will help us understand whether mindfulness interventions result in a cost-effective positive return on investment. In alignment with the perspective of evidence-based practice (Briner & Rousseau, 2011; Pfeffer & Sutton, 2006), we call for a holistic evaluation of mindfulness, including a consideration of when or how unintended side effects emerge. Importantly, we discuss the potential mechanisms by which mindfulness generates valued outcomes (e.g., performance and collective psychological climate) and the need for more sophisticated research to isolate these causal effects. We also consider how the judicious use of utility analytics (e.g., cost effectiveness and return on investment) might help demonstrate the value of mindfulness interventions while also acknowledging questions of causality that must be addressed for such value to be experienced. We close by clarifying that we have the intention of promoting research to further evidence-based practices. There are organizations that have already begun providing mindfulness meditation interventions, and it is our hope that our commentary will help practitioners in these settings to consider the evidence suggesting that there may be unknown nuances regarding mindfulness practice. Ultimately, we believe that mindfulness is an important burgeoning area of research deserving of more scholarly attention.
Mindfulness, Flow, and Mind Wandering: The Role of Trait-Based Mindfulness in State-Task Alignment
Authors: Dust Scott B.
Published: December 2015

Mindfulness—present moment attention and awareness (Brown & Ryan, 2003)—is commonly proposed as a productive state of consciousness in the workplace. Unfortunately, being mindful at every moment of the workday is fairly uncommon. Research suggests that people engage in mind wandering—a lack of attention to and awareness of the present (Smallwood & Schooler, 2006)—for the majority of their day (in every task except making love; Killingsworth & Gilbert, 2010). Further, there is another state of consciousness called flow—an intense sense of concentration and control over activities—that has also been linked to workplace performance (Nakamura & Csikszentmihalyi, 2002). Interestingly, whereas mindfulness facilitates higher performance by being aware of external stimuli, flow enables higher performance by doing the opposite—blocking out external stimuli. These findings suggest that mindfulness is neither the most common psychological state nor the only productive psychological state for the workplace.
Mindfulness and Performance: Cautionary Notes on a Compelling Concept
Authors: Dane Erik
Published: December 2015

As Hyland, Lee, and Mills (2015) note, many conceptualizations of mindfulness include three characteristics. In particular, mindfulness is often defined as a state of consciousness in which an individual (a) focuses on the present moment, (b) attends to phenomena occurring both externally and internally, and (c) remains open to and accepting of observed stimuli—and thus avoids making judgments. Together, these characteristics grant insight into how mindfulness stands to improve performance in work settings. Just as directing attention to the work environment and the tasks and events associated with it can equip workers with key information for making decisions and help them identify and circumvent risks and threats, so too can attending to internal phenomena (e.g., emotions and intuitions) provide workers with useful inputs to the decisions they face (Dane, 2011). Furthermore, in refraining from making judgments and evaluations, workers are more likely to view unfolding events through a variety of lenses and are less likely to view their thoughts, feelings, and reactions as manifestations or indictments of who they are (Glomb, Duffy, Bono, & Yang, 2011). In line with these observations, researchers have hypothesized and provided evidence for positive relationships between mindfulness and the well-being and performance of workers (e.g., Allen & Kiburz, 2012; Dane & Brummel, 2014; Hülsheger, Alberts, Feinholdt, & Lang, 2013).
Be Mindful of Motives for Mindfulness Training
Authors: Connolly Cody , Stuhlmacher Alice F. , Cellar Douglas F.
Published: December 2015

The focal article (Hyland, Lee, & Mills, 2015) has reviewed the literature and has generally concluded that research on mindfulness training has been supportive and suggestive of the potential of these interventions to benefit organizations and people in the workplace. We generally agree with this conclusion but have some suggestions regarding future research and the implementation of mindfulness interventions. Our first suggestion is that organizations exercise caution about simply jumping on the mindfulness bandwagon without thinking through the decision to implement mindfulness interventions. The wide variety of mindfulness techniques can be very different in terms of the techniques used, the potential to be perceived as intrusive, and the outcomes associated with the different mindfulness interventions. We suggest that, when mindfulness interventions are implemented in organizations, the fit of the intervention with the specific goals of the organization be considered as well as alternative interventions. In addition, we suggest that the benefits to employees and employers be clearly articulated, as there may be possible conflicts between these constituencies.
Evaluation of a pilot interprofessional education programme for eating disorder training in mental health services
Authors: McDevitt S. , Passi V.
Published: December 2015

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of an Interprofessional Education (IPE) programme in eating disorders for mental health practitioners using a case-based learning approach.

Methods

A total of 25 mental health clinicians were asked to evaluate their IPE programme as part of training for the National Clinical Programme in Eating Disorders. They completed a Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS), a learner reaction questionnaire after each session and a final open evaluation at 4 months. Non-parametric statistical analysis was employed to analyse learner attitudes and reactions, and qualitative information was coded.

Results

A total of 23 (92%) clinicians from five disciplines participated. Baseline attitudes towards IPE were positive on all RIPLS subscales, and those with prior IPE experience had most positive views as to its benefits for teamwork and patient care (p=0.036). Learner reactions on content, delivery, outcome and structure indicated that individual learning experience was strongly positively endorsed. Change in clinical practice behaviour was reported in terms of communication, clinical activity, outcome evaluation and confidence. Barriers included other demands on time, organisational support, not having enough patients or co-workers to practice skills, and knowledge differentials between learners.

Conclusions

IPE using a case based learning approach is an effective and acceptable means of developing specialist training across existing service, team and professional boundaries. It has potential for positive impact on knowledge, clinical behaviour and service delivery. Recommendations include the introduction of IPE group guidelines, wider circulation of learning points and content, and the use of self-competency ratings and reflective logs.