bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orbital Laser Manufacturing
Authors: Deininger Christoph
Published: November 2015

For many types of work pieces, a laser processing alongside the circumference of the work piece has to be carried out in mass production. Elongated work pieces with a 3D shape or even endless and continuously produced work pieces like tubes and profiles are hard to handle with respect to a static laser beam, because they either cannot be rotated at all or they are too complex and bulky to be handled at all.
Mapping the near fields of plasmonic nanoantennas by scattering‐type scanning near‐field optical microscopy
Authors: Neuman Tomáš , Alonso‐González Pablo , Garcia‐Etxarri Aitzol , Schnell Martin , Hillenbrand Rainer , Aizpurua Javier
Published: November 2015

Near‐field optical microscopy techniques provide information on the amplitude and phase of local fields in samples of interest in nanooptics. However, the information on the near field is typically obtained by converting it into propagating far fields where the signal is detected. This is the case, for instance, in polarization‐resolved scattering‐type scanning near‐field optical microscopy (s‐SNOM), where a sharp dielectric tip scatters the local near field off the antenna to the far field. Up to now, basic models have interpreted S‐ and P‐polarized maps obtained in s‐SNOM as directly proportional to the in‐plane ( or ) and out‐of‐plane () near‐field components of the antenna, respectively, at the position of the probing tip. Here, a novel model that includes the multiple‐scattering process of the probing tip and the nanoantenna is developed, with use of the reciprocity theorem of electromagnetism. This novel theoretical framework provides new insights into the interpretation of s‐SNOM near‐field maps: the model reveals that the fields detected by polarization‐resolved interferometric s‐SNOM do not correlate with a single component of the local near field, but rather with a complex combination of the different local near‐field components at each point (, and ). Furthermore, depending on the detection scheme (S‐ or P‐polarization), a different scaling of the scattered fields as a function of the local near‐field enhancement is obtained. The theoretical findings are corroborated by s‐SNOM experiments which map the near field of linear and gap plasmonic antennas. This new interpretation of nanoantenna s‐SNOM maps as a complex‐valued combination of vectorial local near fields is crucial to correctly understand scattering‐type near‐field microscopy measurements as well as to interpret the signals obtained in field‐enhanced spectroscopy.

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Adiponectin induces CXCL1 secretion from cancer cells and promotes tumor angiogenesis by inducing stromal fibroblast senescence
Authors: Cai Lun , Xu Shengyuan , Piao Chunmei , Qiu Shulan , Li Huihua , Du Jie
Published: November 2015

Adiponectin is an adipocyte‐specific adipocytokine with proliferative and pro‐angiogenic effects that regulates many biological processes, including immunity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. The oncogenic role of adiponectin has been implicated in several cancer types. Stromal cells within tumor contribute tumor growth and angiogenesis; however, it is not clear that how adiponectin regulates stromal cell‐mediated tumorigenesis. In this study, using the tumor xenograft models, we demonstrated that tumor development was severely impaired in mouse subcutaneous cancer tissue and metastasis tumor tissue in adiponectin knockout mice. Our results indicated adiponectin deficiency resulted in decrease of blood vessel and stromal senescent fibroblasts in subcutaneous and metastasis tumor tissue. These observations were confirmed in vitro, in which co‐cultured tumor cells and fibroblasts treated with adiponectin promoted ECs tube formation. A secretion of CXCL1 by adiponectin‐treated tumor cells was observed during the process of inducing stromal fibroblast senescence. Furthermore, stromal cells senescence was through p53 and p16 pathways. Taken together, our results indicate that adiponectin promotes stromal cell senescence within invasive colon cancer contributing to angiogenesis and tumor growth in part through the production of CXCL1 and may serve as a therapeutic target for tumor patients. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lattice fractional diffusion equation of random order
Authors: Wu Guo‐Cheng , Baleanu Dumitru , Xie He‐Ping , Zeng Sheng‐Da
Published: November 2015

The discrete fractional calculus is used to fractionalize difference equations. Simulations of the fractional logistic map unravel that the chaotic solution is conveniently obtained. Then a Riesz fractional difference is defined for fractional partial difference equations on discrete finite domains. A lattice fractional diffusion equation of random order is proposed to depict the complicated random dynamics and an explicit numerical formulae is derived directly from the Riesz difference. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geometric relation between two different types of initial conditions of singular systems of fractional nabla difference equations
Authors: Dassios I. K.
Published: November 2015

In this article, we study the geometric relation between two different types of initial conditions (IC) of a class of singular linear systems of fractional nabla difference equations whose coefficients are constant matrices. For these kinds of systems, we analyze how inconsistent and consistent IC are related to the column vector space of the finite and the infinite eigenvalues of the pencil of the system and analyze the geometric connection between these two different types of IC. Numerical examples are given to justify the results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hours Aren't Enough
Authors: Brudney Jeffrey L. , Russell Allison R.
Published: November 2015

Research on community‐engaged learning tends to view this activity primarily, if not exclusively, from the vantage point of its benefits and challenges for students and educational institutions. Nevertheless, at least one other major actor is involved in this activity: the community. Neglect of the community perspective diminishes the overall value of student engagement. In this article we address this oversight by presenting new methodologies for valuing student engagement that take into account the community perspective. We argue that these approaches, which have their roots in the valuation of volunteer contributions to work organizations, can be extended fruitfully to the valuation of community‐engaged learning projects in institutions of higher learning. We recommend that application of these methodologies become an accepted part of the duties of university offices responsible for student engagement, and that researchers and practitioners continue to investigate more fully the value of engaged learning projects for the community.
Measuring breath acetone for monitoring fat loss: Review
Authors: Anderson Joseph C.
Published: November 2015

Objective

Endogenous acetone production is a by‐product of the fat metabolism process. Because of its small size, acetone appears in exhaled breath. Historically, endogenous acetone has been measured in exhaled breath to monitor ketosis in healthy and diabetic subjects. Recently, breath acetone concentration (BrAce) has been shown to correlate with the rate of fat loss in healthy individuals. In this review, the measurement of breath acetone in healthy subjects is evaluated for its utility in predicting fat loss and its sensitivity to changes in physiologic parameters.

Results

BrAce can range from 1 ppm in healthy non‐dieting subjects to 1,250 ppm in diabetic ketoacidosis. A strong correlation exists between increased BrAce and the rate of fat loss. Multiple metabolic and respiratory factors affect the measurement of BrAce. BrAce is most affected by changes in the following factors (in descending order): dietary macronutrient composition, caloric restriction, exercise, pulmonary factors, and other assorted factors that increase fat metabolism or inhibit acetone metabolism. Pulmonary factors affecting acetone exchange in the lung should be controlled to optimize the breath sample for measurement.

Conclusions

When biologic factors are controlled, BrAce measurement provides a non‐invasive tool for monitoring the rate of fat loss in healthy subjects.
Disconnect between adipose tissue inflammation and cardiometabolic dysfunction in Ossabaw pigs
Authors: Vieira‐Potter Victoria J. , Lee Sewon , Bayless David S. , Scroggins Rebecca J. , Welly Rebecca J. , Fleming Nicholas J. , Smith Thomas N. , Meers Grace M. , Hill Michael A. , Rector R. Scott , Padilla Jaume
Published: November 2015

Objective

The Ossabaw pig is emerging as an attractive model of human cardiometabolic disease because of its size and susceptibility to atherosclerosis, among other characteristics. The relationship between adipose tissue inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in this model was investigated here.

Methods

Young female Ossabaw pigs were fed a Western‐style high‐fat diet (HFD) (n = 4) or control low‐fat diet (LFD) (n = 4) for a period of 9 months and compared for cardiometabolic outcomes and adipose tissue inflammation.

Results

The HFD‐fed “OBESE” pigs were 2.5 times heavier (P < 0.001) than LFD‐fed “LEAN” pigs and developed severe obesity. HFD feeding caused pronounced dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance (systemic and adipose), as well as induction of inflammatory genes, impairments in vasomotor reactivity to insulin, and atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries. Remarkably, visceral, subcutaneous, and perivascular adipose tissue inflammation (via FACS analysis and RT‐PCR) was not increased in OBESE pigs, nor were circulating inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusions

These findings reveal a disconnect between adipose tissue inflammation and cardiometabolic dysfunction induced by Western diet feeding in the Ossabaw pig model.
Gut colonization with methanobrevibacter smithii is associated with childhood weight development
Authors: Mbakwa Catherine A. , Penders John , Savelkoul Paul H. , Thijs Carel , Dagnelie Pieter C. , Mommers Monique , Arts Ilja C.W.
Published: November 2015

Objective

To prospectively investigate the presence and counts of archaea in feces of 472 children in association with weight development from 6 to 10 years of age.

Methods

Within the KOALA Birth Cohort Study, a single fecal sample from each child was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction to quantify archaea (Methanobrevibacter smithii, Methanosphera stadtmanae). Anthropometric outcomes (overweight [body mass index {BMI} ≥ 85th percentile], age‐ and sex‐standardized BMI, weight, and height z‐scores) were repeatedly measured at ages (mean ± SD) of 6.2 ± 0.5, 6.8 ± 0.5, 7.8 ± 0.5, and 8.8 ± 0.5 years. Generalized estimating equation was used for statistical analysis while controlling for confounders.

Results

Methanobrevibacter smithii colonization was associated with an increased risk of overweight (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.69; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.96‐7.54) from 6 to 10 years of age. Children with high levels (>7 log10 copies/g feces) of this archaeon were at highest risk for overweight (OR = 3.27; 95% CI 1.09‐9.83). Moreover, M. smithii colonization was associated with higher weight z‐scores (adj. β 0.18; 95% CI 0.00‐0.36), but not with height. For BMI z‐scores, the interaction (P = 0.008) between M. smithii and age was statistically significant, implying children colonized with M. smithii had increasing BMI z‐scores with age.

Conclusions

Presence and higher counts of M. smithii in the gut of children are associated with higher weight z‐scores, higher BMI z‐scores, and overweight.
FcRγ‐chain deficiency reduces the development of diet‐induced obesity
Authors: van Beek Lianne , Vroegrijk Irene O.C.M. , Katiraei Saeed , Heemskerk Mattijs M. , van Dam Andrea D. , Kooijman Sander , Rensen Patrick C.N. , Koning Frits , Verbeek J. Sjef , Willems van Dijk Ko , van Harmelen Vanessa
Published: November 2015

Objective

Pathogenic immunoglobulins are produced during the development of obesity and contribute to the development of insulin resistance (IR). However, the mechanisms by which these antibodies affect IR are largely unknown. This study investigated whether Fc‐receptors contribute to the development of diet‐induced obesity and IR by studying FcRγ−/− mice that lack the γ‐subunit necessary for signaling and cell surface expression of FcγR and FcεRI.

Methods

FcRγ−/− and wild‐type (WT) mice were fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) to induce obesity. At 4 and 11 weeks, body weight and insulin sensitivity were measured, and adipose tissue (AT) inflammation was determined. Furthermore, intestinal triglyceride (TG) uptake and plasma TG clearance were determined, and gut microbiota composition was analyzed.

Results

FcRγ−/− mice gained less weight after 11 weeks of HFD. They had reduced adiposity, adipose tissue inflammation, and IR. Interestingly, FcRγ−/− mice had higher lean mass compared to WT mice, which was associated with increased energy expenditure. Intestinal TG absorption was increased whereas plasma TG clearance was not affected in FcRγ−/− mice. Gut microbial composition differed significantly and might therefore have added to the observed phenotype.

Conclusions

FcRγ‐chain deficiency reduces the development of diet‐induced obesity, as well as associated AT inflammation and IR at 11 weeks of HFD.
Abdominal adiposity change in white and black midlife women: The study of women's health across the nation
Authors: Kazlauskaite Rasa , Innola Pilvi , Karavolos Kelly , Dugan Sheila A. , Avery Elizabeth F. , Fattout Yacob , Karvonen‐Gutierrez Carrie , Janssen Imke , Powell Lynda H.
Published: November 2015

Objective

The principal objective of this investigation was to compare the naturalistic intra‐abdominal adipose tissue (IAAT) change among black and white women during midlife.

Methods

A cohort of 222 (56%) white and 171 (44%) black midlife women were investigated in the Fat Patterning Study at the Chicago site of the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation. The subjects' total body fat was assessed by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry and IAAT by a planimetric computed tomography (at the level of L4‐L5) annually over up to 4 years.

Results

The total body fat at initial evaluation was higher in black women (45.1% ± 8.2%) when compared with white women (41.3% ± 8.7%, P < 0.001) and did not significantly change over the longitudinal follow‐up. No significant racial differences were found in the mean annualized gain of IAAT (4.4% ± 0.5%) in models adjusted for total body fat, initial IAAT, age, race, time and race interaction, physical activity, depressive symptoms, menopausal status, and menopausal hormone therapy.

Conclusions

During a naturalistic observation, black and white midlife women had similar abdominal fat gain adjusted for differences in baseline adiposity. These data inform future research aimed to prevent IAAT gain during the critical midlife period of rising cardiovascular risk.
Preparation, characterization and application of powdered activated carbon‐cellulose acetate phthalate mixed matrix membrane for treatment of steel plant effluent
Authors: Mukherjee Raka , De Sirshendu
Published: November 2015

Preparation, characterization and industrial application of a mixed matrix membrane (MMM) using powdered activated carbon (PAC) in cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) have been reported in this study. The objective of this work is to fabricate a less energy intensive, highly selective (to phenolic compounds) adsorptive membrane with high throughput in a scalable platform for simultaneous removal of organic as well chemical oxygen demand (COD) from a steel plant effluent. The membrane with 25 wt% PAC has maximum adsorption capacity of phenol 35 mg/g at pH 5.5. Effluent with total phenolic compounds (23 mg/g) and COD of 5200 mg/l is treated in continuous cross‐flow configuration. Breakthrough time is 44 hr for a filtration area of 0.008 m2 with total phenol concentration in permeate as per World Health Organization (WHO), 1 mg/l. Throughput of the system is high, 40 l/m2 hr at transmembrane pressure drop 276 kPa and cross‐flow rate 20 l/hr. Maximum rejection of phenol is obtained at low pressure and cross‐flow rate. Removal of phenolic compounds is achieved by adsorption by PAC in CAP matrix and satisfactory reduction of COD and complete removal of non‐volatile solids are due of sieving mechanism. A simple chemical regeneration method is proposed to recover the permeate flux beyond 90%. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Probiotics and Fecal Microbiota Transplant for Primary and Secondary Prevention of Clostridium difficile Infection
Authors: Crow Jessica R. , Davis Stephanie L. , Chaykosky Darlene M. , Smith Tiffeny T. , Smith Janessa M.
Published: November 2015

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is the most common cause of nosocomial diarrhea and is associated with an increased risk of mortality. The use of probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been studied to reduce the incidence and severity of this infection, but variable efficacy and safety data have been reported. Probiotics are hypothesized to be effective in the management of CDI through a number of mechanisms that include maintenance of normal gastrointestinal flora, antimicrobial and antitoxin properties, and immunomodulatory effects. Despite promising results in small trials and meta‐analyses, prospective, randomized, controlled trials have not demonstrated probiotics to be effective in the primary prevention of C. difficile–associated diarrhea (CDAD). Probiotics may be effective for secondary prevention in patients with recurrent CDI, but guidelines acknowledge the lack of compelling evidence. Trials are limited by the use of varying types of strains, numbers of strains, and doses of probiotics, as well the definitions of CDI and CDAD. FMT has been proposed as a method for restoring gut microbiota and has been shown to significantly increase the rate of cure in patients with recurrent CDI. Current studies have demonstrated minimal adverse effects, with no reports of transmission of infectious diseases; however, the optimal delivery method, sample preparation, and donor selection remain unclear. In this review, findings from recent literature are highlighted, and guideline recommendations for the use of these agents in the primary and secondary prevention of CDI are summarized.
Making a Case for Pediatric Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs
Authors: Magsarili Heather K. , Girotto Jennifer E. , Bennett Nicholas J. , Nicolau David P.
Published: November 2015

Although antimicrobials are commonly used in children, it is important to remember that they can have a profound impact on this unique patient population. Inadvertent consequences of antiinfective use in children include antimicrobial resistance, infection caused by Clostridium difficile, increased risk of obesity, and adverse drug events. In addition, compared with adults, children have different dosing requirements, antimicrobial formulation needs, pharmacokinetics, and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles. Therefore, pediatric‐specific antimicrobial stewardship efforts are needed to promote appropriate use of antimicrobials in children. The primary purposes of this review article are to provide a rationale behind pediatric‐focused antimicrobial stewardship and to describe currently available evidence regarding the initiatives of pediatric antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). A literature search of the Medline database was performed (from inception through March 2015). The studies included in this review focus on antimicrobial stewardship interventions in inpatient pediatric settings. Ten inpatient studies involving pediatric‐focused antimicrobial stewardship interventions were identified from the published literature. Four studies used the core strategy of prospective audit with feedback; two used prior approval. The remaining four used supplemental antimicrobial stewardship strategies (guidelines, clinical pathways, and computerized decision support tools). In general, the interventions resulted in decreased antimicrobial use, reduced antimicrobial costs, and fewer prescribing errors. Children have unique medical needs related to antimicrobials and deserve focused ASP efforts. The literature regarding pediatric antimicrobial stewardship interventions is limited, but published interventions may serve as paradigms for developing pediatric ASPs as demonstrated by the general success of these interventions.
Honig: Zucker an der Phasengrenze
Authors: Vilgis Thomas
Published: November 2015

Honigliebhaber wissen, dass einige Sorten schneller kristallisieren als andere. Aus physikalischer Sicht ist der Bienenzucker eine mehr oder weniger stark “übersättigte Zuckerlösung”, vorwiegend bestehend aus Glucose und Fructose. Die Kristallisierungsfrage lässt sich deshalb klären, indem man Modellhonige betrachtet, die aus diesen beiden Monosacchariden und Wasser bestehen.
Cytoplasmic accumulation of ELAVL1 is an independent predictor of biochemical recurrence associated with genomic instability in prostate cancer
Authors: Melling Nathaniel , Taskin Berivan , Hube‐Magg Claudia , Kluth Martina , Minner Sarah , Koop Christina , Grob Tobias , Graefen Markus , Heinzer Hans , Tsourlakis Maria Christina , Izbicki Jakob , Wittmer Corinna , Huland Hartwig , Simon Ronald , Wilczak Waldemar , Sauter Guido , Steurer Stefan , Schlomm Thorsten , Krech Till
Published: November 2015

Background

ELAVL1 is an RNA binding protein involved in translation control, which might have a regulatory role in prostate cancer progress.

Methods

To evaluate its impact and relationship with key genomic alterations, ELAVL1 expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry on a tissue microarray containing 12,427 prostate cancers.

Results

The analysis revealed a mild to moderate predominantly nuclear immunostaining in normal prostate epithelium and an often higher both cytoplasmic and nuclear expression in cancer cells. Weak, moderate, and strong cytoplasmic ELAVL1 staining was found in 43%, 18%, and 3% of 10,478 interpretable tumors. Strong ELAVL1 staining was linked to high Gleason grade, advanced pathological tumor stage, positive nodal status, and PSA recurrence (P < 0.0001 each). A combined analysis of the effect of nuclear and cytoplasmic ELAVL1 expression on PSA recurrence revealed that the association with patient outcome was entirely driven by cytoplasmic staining. ELAVL1 positivity was more frequent in cancers harboring TMPRSS2:ERG fusions found by FISH (78%) or showing immunohistochemical ERG expression (74%) than in cancers without ERG rearrangement (63%) or ERG expression (58%, P < 0.0001 each). Strong cytoplasmic ELAVL1 staining was further linked to presence of PTEN, 5q21, 6q15, and 3p13 deletions (P < 0.0001 each), an observation consistent with cytoplasmic ELAVL1 accumulation in case of genomic instability. The prognostic role of ELAVL1 expression was independent of Gleason grade, T stage, N stage, surgical margin status, and preoperative PSA, irrespective of whether preoperative or postoperative variables were used for modeling.

Conclusion

Our study identifies cytoplasmic accumulation of ELAVL1 as a predictor of adverse clinical behavior of prostate cancer independent of established clinico‐pathological parameters. Prostate 76:259–272, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multianalytical study of corrosion layers in some archaeological copper alloy artefacts
Authors: Oudbashi Omid
Published: November 2015

Corrosion layers in some copper and bronze archaeological objects from Haft Tappeh archaeological site, southwest Iran, were studied. For this purpose, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis, micro‐Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction methods were applied to observe corrosion stratigraphy and their characteristics as well as identification of chemical composition and phase determination of different corrosion layers. Based on optical and electron microscopy, three different corrosion strata were identified in cross section of different metallic objects including various red, green, white‐grey powdery and dark internal compact layers. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis on different corrosion layers revealed that Cu, Sn and Cl are the main elements in the chemical composition of different layers. Tin‐rich phases were detected in white‐grey and dark layers that may be formed because of the internal oxidation of tin as well as the decuprification (selective dissolution of copper) phenomena occurring during long‐term burial period in the soil. Also, the XRD and micro‐Raman spectroscopy results proved that the main corrosion products are nantokite (CuCl), copper trihydroxychlorides and copper oxides. The combination of these analytical methods allows us to explore the surface and internal corrosion layers of the archaeological copper and bronze samples, and major interest is on studying their chemistry, microstructural properties and corrosion stratigraphy. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A sequential classification rule based on multiple quantitative tests in the absence of a gold standard
Authors: Zhang Jingyang , Zhang Ying , Chaloner Kathryn , Stapleton Jack T.
Published: November 2015

In many medical applications, combining information from multiple biomarkers could yield a better diagnosis than any single one on its own. When there is a lack of a gold standard, an algorithm of classifying subjects into the case and non‐case status is necessary for combining multiple markers. The aim of this paper is to develop a method to construct a composite test from multiple applicable tests and derive an optimal classification rule under the absence of a gold standard. Rather than combining the tests, we treat the tests as a sequence. This sequential composite test is based on a mixture of two multivariate normal latent models for the distribution of the test results in case and non‐case groups, and the optimal classification rule is derived returning the greatest sensitivity at a given specificity. This method is applied to a real‐data example and simulation studies have been carried out to assess the statistical properties and predictive accuracy of the proposed composite test. This method is also attainable to implement nonparametrically. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Exploration of Returning Veterans' Sexual Health Issues Using a Brief Self-Report Measure
Authors: Beaulieu Gregory R. , Latini David M. , Helmer Drew A. , Powers-James Catherine , Houlette Cheryl , Kauth Michael R.
Published: November 2015

Introduction

Sexual health is an integral aspect of quality of life with important implications for satisfaction with intimate relationships, emotional well-being, and life as a whole. Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan frequently encounter a wide range of known risk factors for sexual health concerns.

Aim

This article seeks to examine the overall frequency, important covariates associated with sexual difficulties, and the relevant domains of sexual dysfunction among a group of recent US veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review of 247 veterans of conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan evaluated for an initial visit at the post-deployment clinic of a large veterans affairs medical center (VAMC). Patient demographic and medical characteristics were calculated using descriptive statistics. The prevalence and burden of sexual health issues in our patient sample were calculated using descriptive statistics from these veterans' responses to a self-report measure of sexual functioning. Item-level regression analyses were then conducted between sexual functioning responses and other patient data.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures used were the responses to the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX).

Results

Almost 18% of veterans screened positive for sexual functioning difficulties. Self-reported sexual dysfunction was most strongly associated with depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, female sex, and service connection rating. Co-occurring characteristics varied with specific areas of sexual functioning.

Conclusions

Screening using an empirically validated self-report instrument indicates that there is a high prevalence of reported sexual dysfunction among recently deployed veterans. Analyses indicated that there are specific characteristics associated with both overall self-reported sexual dysfunction and specific subtypes of sexual dysfunction. Active assessment of specific aspects of sexual dysfunction concerns may allow providers to identify and implement more precise sexual functioning interventions.
Why do some outside successions fare better than others? The role of outside CEOs' prior experience with board diversity
Authors: Zhu David H. , Shen Wei
Published: November 2015

Research summary: We develop a theory to explain why new outside CEOs can better manage their relationship with the board if they previously served on boards that were more diverse than the focal board. We predict that a new outside CEO's prior experience with more diverse boards not only reduces the likelihood of post‐succession CEO turnover and director turnover, but also improves firm performance. Results from an analysis of 188 outside CEOs in a sample of Fortune 500 companies provide support for our theory. This study contributes to upper echelon theory and research by identifying outside CEOs' prior experience with board diversity as an important aspect of their background that influences a range of major organizational outcomes, including CEO turnover, director turnover, and firm performance.

Managerial summary: It is challenging to be a new CEO who comes from outside of the organization. Our study examines why some new outside CEOs fare better than others. We suggest that a positive relationship with the board of directors is a key factor in a new outside CEO's success. A new outside CEO can better manage the relationship with the board if he or she has prior experience working with other demographically diverse boards. In contrast, when the focal board is more diverse than the other boards on which the new CEO previously served, the new CEO tends to struggle in managing his or her relationship with the board, experiencing a higher likelihood of turnover and delivering worse financial performance. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct Synthesis of Few‐Layer Graphene on NaCl Crystals
Authors: Shi Liurong , Chen Ke , Du Ran , Bachmatiuk Alicja , Rümmeli Mark Hermann , Priydarshi Manish Kumar , Zhang Yanfeng , Manivannan Ayyakkannu , Liu Zhongfan
Published: November 2015

Chemical vapor deposition is used to synthesize few‐layer graphene on micro crystalline sodium chloride (NaCl) powder. The water‐soluble nature of NaCl makes it convenient to produce free standing graphene layers via a facile and low‐cost approach. Unlike traditional metal‐catalyzed or oxygen‐aided growth, the micron‐size NaCl crystal planes play an important role in the nucleation and growth of few‐layer graphene. Moreover, the possibility of synthesizing cuboidal graphene is also demonstrated in the present approach for the first time. Raman spectroscopy, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy are used to evaluate the quality and structure of the few‐layer graphene along with cuboidal graphene obtained in this process. The few‐layer graphene synthesized using the present method has an adsorption ability for anionic and cationic dye molecules in water. The present synthesis method may pave a facile way for manufacturing few‐layer graphene on a large scale.
Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells elicit macrophages into an anti-inflammatory phenotype to alleviate insulin resistance in type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Xie Zongyan , Hao Haojie , Tong Chuan , Cheng Yu , Liu Jiejie , Pang Yaping , Si Yiling , Guo Yulin , Zang Li , Mu Yiming , Han Weidong
Published: November 2015

Insulin resistance, a major characteristic of type 2 diabetes (T2D), is closely associated with adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) that induce chronic low-grade inflammation. Recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been identified in alleviation of insulin resistance. However, the underlying mechanism still remains elusive. Thus, we aimed to investigate whether the effect of MSCs on insulin resistance was related to macrophages phenotypes in adipose tissues of T2D rats. In this study, human umbilical cord-derived MSCs (UC-MSCs) infusion produced significantly anti-diabetic effects and promoted insulin sensitivity in T2D rats that were induced by a high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin and directed ATMs into an alternatively activated phenotype (M2, anti-inflammatory). In vitro, MSC-induced M2 macrophages alleviated insulin resistance caused by classically activated macrophages (M1, pro-inflammatory). Further analysis showed that M1 stimulated UC-MSCs to increase expression of interleukin (IL)-6, a molecule which upregulated IL4R expression, promoted phosphorylation of STAT6 in macrophages, and eventually polarized macrophages into M2 phenotype. Moreover, the UC-MSCs effect on macrophages was largely abrogated by small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown of IL-6. Together, our results indicate that UC-MSCs can alleviate insulin resistance in part via production of IL-6 that elicits M2 polarization. Additionally, human obesity and insulin resistance were associated with increased pro-inflammatory ATMs infiltration. Thus, MSCs may be a new treatment for obesity-related insulin resistance and T2D concerning macrophage polarized effects.
Human umbilical tissue-derived cells rescue retinal pigment epithelium dysfunction in retinal degeneration
Authors: Cao Jing , Murat Christopher , An Weijun , Yao Xiang , Lee John , Santulli-Marotto Sandra , Harris Ian R. , Inana George
Published: November 2015

Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells perform many functions crucial for retinal preservation and vision. RPE cell dysfunction results in various retinal degenerative diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Currently, there are no effective treatments for retinal degeneration except for a small percentage of individuals with exudative AMD. Cell therapies targeting RPE cells are being developed in the clinic for the treatment of retinal degeneration. Subretinal injection of human umbilical tissue-derived cells (hUTC) in the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat model of retinal degeneration was shown to preserve photoreceptors and visual function. However, the precise mechanism remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that hUTC rescue phagocytic dysfunction in RCS RPE cells in vitro. hUTC secrete receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), as well as opsonizing bridge molecules milk-fat-globule-epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG-E8), growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6), thrombospondin (TSP)-1, and TSP-2. The effect of hUTC on phagocytosis rescue in vitro is mimicked by recombinant human proteins of these factors and is abolished by siRNA-targeted gene silencing in hUTC. The bridge molecules secreted from hUTC bind to the photoreceptor outer segments and facilitate their ingestion by the RPE. This study elucidates novel cellular mechanisms for the repair of RPE function in retinal degeneration through RTK ligands and bridge molecules, and demonstrates the potential of using hUTC for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases.
Fetuses with right aortic arch: a multicenter cohort study and meta‐analysis
Authors: D'Antonio F. , Khalil A. , Zidere V. , Carvalho J. S.
Published: November 2015

Objectives

Use of recent antenatal screening guidelines for cardiac abnormalities has increased fetal diagnoses of right aortic arch (RAA). We aimed to establish the outcome of fetal RAA without intracardiac abnormalities (ICA) to guide postnatal management.

Methods

In the retrospective cohort part of our study, outcome measures were rates of chromosomal abnormalities, 22q11.2 deletion, fetal extracardiac abnormalities (ECA), postnatal ICA and ECA, and symptoms of and surgery for vascular ring. A systematic review and meta‐analysis was also performed; results are reported as proportions. Kaplan–Meier analysis of vascular ring cases with surgery as endpoint was performed.

Results

Our cohort included 86 cases; 41 had a vascular ring. Rates of chromosomal abnormalities, 22q11.2 deletion and fetal ECA were 14.1%, 6.4% and 17.4%, respectively. Sixteen studies including our cohort (312 fetuses) were included in the systematic review. Overall rates of chromosomal abnormalities and 22q11.2 deletion were 9.0% (95% CI, 6.0–12.5%) and 6.1% (95% CI, 3.6–9.3%), whilst the respective rates for cases with no ECA were 4.6% (95% CI, 2.3–7.8%) and 5.1% (95% CI, 2.4–8.6%). ECA were seen in 14.6% (95% CI, 10.6–19.0%) prenatally and in 4.0% (95% CI, 1.5–7.6%) after birth. Postnatal ICA were identified in 5.0% (95% CI, 2.7–7.9%). Rate of symptoms of vascular rings (follow‐up ≥ 24 months postpartum) was 25.2% (95% CI, 16.6–35.0%), and 17.1% (95% CI, 9.9–25.7%) had surgery. Two‐year freedom from surgery was 83.0% (95% CI, 74.3–90.1%).

Conclusions

Fetal RAA without ICA is more frequently associated with ECA than with chromosomal abnormalities. Most cases, however, are isolated. Vascular‐ring symptoms occur in about 25% of cases. Postnatal surveillance is required mainly in the first 2 years after delivery. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Managing the water cycle in Kenyan small‐scale maize farming systems: Part 2. Farmers’ use of formal and informal climate forecasts
Authors: Vervoort R. Willem , Muita Richard , Ampt Peter , van Ogtrop Floris
Published: November 2015

Forecasts can be an important component of water cycle management and farm decision making, particularly where rainfall is uncertain. In Kenya, the use of informal or indigenous forecasting (IF) is known to be widespread, but farmers also use more formal seasonal forecasting (SF) to make decisions in relation to the water cycle. A review of literature indicates that local knowledge is adaptable and often mixes indigenous knowledge and external information. In most cases, IF focusses on more local features and relates more to practical farm activities.

Based on extensive interviews and focus groups of farmers in two study areas in Kenya, a majority of farmers from each area used IF, even though SF was also used. There were few farmer characteristics that explained the difference in the use of IF and SF. However, there were differences between the two study areas in how farmers interpreted SF and whether they used a combination of SF and IF. Furthermore there were differences in the local IF indicators used by farmers to identify the onset of the rainy season.

To improve the acceptance of SF and increase its use, the information provided in SF needs to be easily incorporated into farmers’ current working knowledge, which might also include IF. This means that SF tools should be developed using participatory approaches to ensure the engagement of local farmers. WIREs Water 2016, 3:127–140. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1121

This article is categorized under:

Human Water > Water as Imagined and Represented
Antibiotics and evolution: food for thought
Authors: Strachan C R , Davies J
Published: November 2015

The role of secondary metabolites in effecting and modulating reactions during early biochemical evolution has been largely unappreciated. It is possible that low molecular weight effectors were gradually replaced by polypeptides as polymerizing reactions became more complex, but retained some ability to interact with original receptor sites. Indeed, by reviewing the era of antibiotics in this light we can begin to reconcile the ancient and contemporary activities of these molecules. The corollary being that secondary metabolites participate in a vast array of interactions in nature and investigating their intended receptors will be revealing in both pharmacological and evolutionary terms.
Harnessing natural product assembly lines: structure, promiscuity, and engineering
Authors: Ladner Christopher C , Williams Gavin J
Published: November 2015

Many therapeutically relevant natural products are biosynthesized by the action of giant mega-enzyme assembly lines. By leveraging the specificity, promiscuity, and modularity of assembly lines, a variety of strategies has been developed that enables the biosynthesis of modified natural products. This review briefly summarizes recent structural advances related to natural product assembly lines, discusses chemical approaches to probing assembly line structures in the absence of traditional biophysical data, and surveys efforts that harness the inherent or engineered promiscuity of assembly lines for the synthesis of non-natural polyketides and non-ribosomal peptide analogues.
Low n‐6/n‐3 PUFA Ratio Improves Lipid Metabolism, Inflammation, Oxidative Stress and Endothelial Function in Rats Using Plant Oils as n‐3 Fatty Acid Source
Authors: Yang Li Gang , Song Zhi Xiu , Yin Hong , Wang Yan Yan , Shu Guo Fang , Lu Hui Xia , Wang Shao Kang , Sun Gui Ju
Published: November 2015

Lipid metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress and endothelial function play important roles in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which may be affected by an imbalance in the n‐6/n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the n‐6/n‐3 PUFA ratio on these cardiovascular risk factors in rats fed a high‐fat diet using plant oils as the main n‐3 PUFA source. The 1:1 and 5:1 ratio groups had significantly decreased serum levels of total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and proinflammatory cytokines compared with the 20:1 group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the 20:1 group had significantly increased serum levels of E‐Selectin, von Willebrand factor (vWF), and numerous markers of oxidative stress compared with the other groups (p < 0.05). The 1:1 group had a significantly decreased lipid peroxide level compared with the other groups (p < 0.05). Serum levels of malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species and vWF tended to increase with n‐6/n‐3 PUFA ratios increasing from 5:1 to 20:1. We demonstrated that low n‐6/n‐3 PUFA ratio (1:1 and 5:1) had a beneficial effect on cardiovascular risk factors by enhancing favorable lipid profiles, having anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative stress effects, and improving endothelial function. A high n‐6/n‐3 PUFA ratio (20:1) had adverse effects. Our results indicated that low n‐6/n‐3 PUFA ratios exerted beneficial cardiovascular effects, suggesting that plant oils could be used as a source of n‐3 fatty acids to prevent CVD. They also suggested that we should be aware of possible adverse effects from excessive n‐3 PUFA.
The Phase Behavior of γ‐Oryzanol and β‐Sitosterol in Edible Oil
Authors: Sawalha Hassan , Venema Paul , Bot Arjen , Flöter Eckhard , Adel Ruud den , van der Linden Erik
Published: November 2015

The phase behavior of binary mixtures of γ‐oryzanol and β‐sitosterol and ternary mixtures of γ‐oryzanol and β‐sitosterol in sunflower oil was studied. Binary mixtures of γ‐oryzanol and β‐sitosterol show double‐eutectic behavior. Complex phase behavior with two intermediate mixed solid phases was derived from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) data, in which a compound that consists of γ‐oryzanol and β‐sitosterol molecules at a specific ratio can be formed. SAXS shows that the organization of γ‐oryzanol and β‐sitosterol in the mixed phases is different from the structure of tubules in ternary systems. Ternary mixtures including sunflower oil do not show a sudden structural transition from the compound to a tubule, but a gradual transition occurs as γ‐oryzanol and β‐sitosterol are diluted in edible oil. The same behavior is observed when melting binary mixtures of γ‐oryzanol and β‐sitosterol at higher temperatures. This indicates the feasibility of having an organogelling agent in dynamic exchange between solid and liquid phase, which is an essential feature of triglyceride networks.
Reproductive History and Later-Life Comorbidity Trajectories: A Medicare-Linked Cohort Study From the Utah Population Database
Authors: Hanson Heidi A. , Smith Ken R. , Zimmer Zachary
Published: November 2015

Reproductive lives of men and women may provide significant insight into later-life morbidity and mortality. Sociological, biological, and evolutionary theories predict a relationship between reproductive history and later-life health; however, current research is lacking consensus on the direction of the relationship. Parity, early age at first birth and last birth, birth weight of offspring, having a child die as an infant, and having a preterm birth may have long-term effects on health for both men and women. In this study, the relationship between these measures of reproductive history and later-life health is examined using the Utah Population Database (a rich source of longitudinal data), and Medicare claims data from 1992–2009. Later-life health is measured using annual Charlson comorbidity index scores, a construct that summarizes most serious illnesses afflicting older individuals. Group-based trajectory modeling that accounts for nonrandom attrition due to death is used to identify the number and types of morbidity trajectories by sex and age for 52,924 individuals aged 65–84 in 1992. For females, early age at first birth, high parity, and having a preterm or high-birth-weight baby are associated with increased risks of comorbidity; later age at last birth is associated with a decreased risk of comorbidity. For males, early age at first birth and having a child with an abnormal birth weight leads to increased risk of comorbidity. The results suggest that both biological and social factors play important roles in the relationships between fertility and morbidity profiles at older ages.
RELIGIOUS DISAGREEMENT: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY AMONG ACADEMIC PHILOSOPHERS
Authors: De Cruz Helen
Published: November 2015

Religious disagreement is an emerging topic of interest in social epistemology. Little is known about how philosophers react to religious disagreements in a professional context, or how they think one should respond to disagreement. This paper presents results of an empirical study on religious disagreement among philosophers. Results indicate that personal religious beliefs, philosophical training, and recent changes in religious outlook have a significant impact on philosophers' assessments of religious disagreement. They regard peer disagreement about religion as common, and most surveyed participants assume one should accord weight to the other's opinion. Theists and agnostics are less likely to assume they are in a better epistemic position than their interlocutors about religious questions compared with atheists, but this pattern only holds for participants who are not philosophers of religion. Continental philosophers think religious beliefs are more like preferences than analytic philosophers, who regard religious beliefs as fact-like.
Squirming through shear-thinning fluids
Authors: Datt Charu , Zhu Lailai , Elfring Gwynn J. , Pak On Shun
Published: November 2015

Many micro-organisms find themselves immersed in fluids displaying non-Newtonian rheological properties such as viscoelasticity and shear-thinning viscosity. The effects of viscoelasticity on swimming at low Reynolds numbers have already received considerable attention, but much less is known about swimming in shear-thinning fluids. A general understanding of the fundamental question of how shear-thinning rheology influences swimming still remains elusive. To probe this question further, we study a spherical squirmer in a shear-thinning fluid using a combination of asymptotic analysis and numerical simulations. Shear-thinning rheology is found to affect a squirming swimmer in non-trivial and surprising ways; we predict and show instances of both faster and slower swimming depending on the surface actuation of the squirmer. We also illustrate that while a drag and thrust decomposition can provide insights into swimming in Newtonian fluids, extending this intuition to problems in complex media can prove problematic.