bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palyno‐morphological investigations of halophytic taxa of Amaranthaceae through SEM from Salt range of Northern Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Nazish Moona , Zafar Muhammad , Ahmad Mushtaq , Sultana Shazia , Ullah Riaz , Alqahtani Ali S. , Ullah Farhat , Ahmad Shafiq , Ashfaq Shomaila , Ullah Fazal
Published: January 2019

The pollen morphology of 11 salt tolerant plant species of family Amaranthaceae from the salt range of Northern Punjab, Pakistan has been studied. The palyno‐morphological characters were examined using light and scanning electron microscope. The examined all salt tolerant species have a slight difference in size but have similarity in shape, pore ornamentation, and polarity. The observed morphological characters of pollen grains were pollen symmetry, size, shape, pore ornamentation, pore size, number of pores, exine thickness, polar and equatorial diameter and, P/E ratio. Apolar type of pollens has been observed in all species. Shape of pollens was spheroidal. Exine sculpturing of pollen grains was scabrate (six spp), microechinate (four spp), and microechinate‐scabrate (one spp). Different pori numbers were observed in different species. The pantoporate aperturate and sunken pore ornamentation have been reported in all species. A pollen taxonomic key was developed using examined morphological characters for the accurate identification of halophytic taxa. The high fertility and low sterility of pollens confirmed that the selected halophytes are well‐established in the salt region. The findings highlight the taxonomic significance of pollen morphology in correct identification and differentiation of salt tolerant plant species.
Hyperthermia due to heat retention in chronic spinal cord injury: A case report
Authors: Tomoda Yoshitaka , Kagawa Satoshi , Kurata Satoshi , Tanaka Kazutoyo
Published: January 2019

An 80‐year‐old male with past history of cervical spinal cord injury visited our hospital owing to perforation in the digestive tract. Upon admission to the general ward, he presented with a sustained fever that was unresponsive to acetaminophen and antibiotics. Based on the dry skin and underlying disease, he was diagnosed with hyperthermia due to heat retention. After controlling the room temperature to cool his body and performing evaporative and convective cooling, his symptoms completely resolved. This case highlights that primary physicians should be aware of thermoregulatory dysfunction in patients with cervical spinal cord injury.
Metabolism drives monocytes during inflammation: What we do and do not know
Authors: Patil Naeem K , Bohannon Julia K , Sherwood Edward R
Published: January 2019

Discussion on leukocyte metabolism and the subsequent changes in intracellular metabolite concentrations.
Optimizing Texture Retrieving Model for Multimodal MR Image‐Based Support Vector Machine for Classifying Glioma
Authors: Yang Yang , Yan Lin‐Feng , Zhang Xin , Nan Hai‐Yan , Hu Yu‐Chuan , Han Yu , Zhang Jin , Liu Zhi‐Cheng , Sun Ying‐Zhi , Tian Qiang , Yu Ying , Sun Qian , Wang Si‐Yuan , Zhang Xiao , Wang Wen , Cui Guang‐Bin
Published: January 2019

Background

Accurate glioma grading plays an important role in patient treatment.

Purpose

To investigate the influence of varied texture retrieving models on the efficacy of grading glioma with support vector machine (SVM).

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

In all, 117 glioma patients including 25, 29, and 63 grade II, III, and IV gliomas, respectively, based on WHO 2007.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T MRI/ T1WI, T2 fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery, contrast enhanced T1, arterial spinal labeling, diffusion‐weighted imaging (0, 30, 50, 100, 200, 300, 500, 800, 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, and 3500 sec/mm2), and dynamic contrast‐enhanced.

Assessment

Texture attributes from 30 parametric maps were retrieved using four models, including Global, gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix (GLCM), gray‐level run‐length matrix (GLRLM), and gray‐level size‐zone matrix (GLSZM). Attributes derived from varied models were input into radial basis function SVM (RBF‐SVM) combined with attribute selection using SVM‐recursive feature elimination (SVM‐RFE). The SVM model was trained and established with 80% randomly selected data of each category using 10‐fold crossvalidation. The model performance was further tested using the remaining 20% data.

Statistical Tests

Ten‐fold crossvalidation was used to validate the model performance.

Results

Based on 30 parametric maps, 90, 240, 390, or 390 texture attributes were retrieved using the Global, GLCM, GLRLM, or GLSZM model, respectively. SVM‐RFE was able to reduce attribute redundancy as well as improve RBF‐SVM performance. Training data were oversampled by applying the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) method to overcome the data imbalance problem; test results were able to further demonstrate the classifying performance of the final models. GLSZM using gray‐level 64 was the optimal model to retrieve powerful image texture attributes to produce enough classifying power with an accuracy / area under the curve of 0.760/0.867 for the training and 0.875/0.971 for the independent test. Fifteen attributes were selected with SVM‐RFE to provide comparable classifying efficacy.

Data Conclusion

When using image textures‐based SVM classification of gliomas, the GLSZM model in combination with gray‐level 64 and attribute selection may be an optimized solution.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1263–1274.
Impact of HPyV9 and TSPyV coinfection on the development of BK polyomavirus viremia and associated nephropathy after kidney transplantation
Authors: van Rijn Aline L. , Wunderink Herman F. , de Brouwer Caroline S. , van der Meijden Els , Rotmans Joris I. , Feltkamp Mariet C. W.
Published: January 2019

Background

BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) persistently infects the urinary tract and causes viremia and nephropathy in kidney transplantation (KTx), recipients. In a previous study, we observed an increased incidence and load of BKPyV viremia in KTx patients coinfected with human polyomavirus 9 (HPyV9). Here we sought confirmation of this observation and explored whether novel HPyVs that have been detected in urine (HPyV9 and trichodysplasia spinulosa polyomavirus [TSPyV]) potentially aggravate BKPyV infection.

Methods

A well‐characterized cohort of 209 KTx donor‐recipient pairs was serologically and molecularly analyzed for HPyV9 and TSPyV coinfection. These data were correlated with the occurrence of BKPyV viremia and BKPyVAN in the recipients within a year after KTx.

Results

Seropositivity for HPyV9 (19%) and TSPyV (89%) was comparable between donors and recipients and did not correlate with BKPyV viremia and BKPyVAN that developed in 25% and 3% of the recipients, respectively. Two recipients developed TSPyV viremia and none HPyV9 viremia. Modification of the predictive effect of donor BKPyV seroreactivity on recipient BKPyV viremia by HPyV9 and TSPyV was not observed.

Conclusions

Our data provide no evidence for a promoting effect of HPyV9 and TSPyV on BKPyV infection and BKPyVAN in renal allograft patients. Therefore, we do not recommend including HPyV9 and TSPyV screening in KTx patients.
Atmospheric moisture transport between mid‐latitudes and the Arctic: Regional, seasonal and vertical distributions
Authors: Naakka Tuomas , Nygård Tiina , Vihma Timo , Sedlar Joseph , Graversen Rune
Published: January 2019

Horizontal moisture transport has a manifold role in the Arctic climate system as it distributes atmospheric water vapour and thereby shapes the radiative and hydrological conditions. Moisture transport between the Arctic and the mid‐latitudes was examined based on ERA‐Interim reanalysis. The meridional net transport is only a small part of the water vapour exchange between the Arctic and mid‐latitudes and does not give a complete view of temporal and spatial variations in the transport. Especially near the surface, most of the northwards moisture transport is balanced by the southwards transport, and therefore the meridional net moisture transport at 60°–70°N peaks approximately at 100 hPa higher altitude than the northwards and southwards moisture transports. The total moisture transport (sum of absolute northwards and southwards moisture transports) has a much larger seasonal variation than the net transport (mean meridional transport), and the strength of the total transport is related to atmospheric humidity rather than the wind field. Strong individual moisture transport events contribute to a large part of the northwards moisture transport. This is consistent with the result that the net moisture transport is essentially generated by temporal variations of moisture fluxes. The moisture transport due to stationary zonal variation in the mass flux mostly defines the spatial distribution of the meridional moisture transport. The seasonal cycle of the net moisture transport is related to the seasonal cycle of transient eddy moisture transport but inter‐annual variations of the net moisture transport are largely influenced by the stationary eddy moisture transport.
Summertime surface energy balance fluxes at two Beijing sites
Authors: Dou Junxia , Grimmond Sue , Cheng Zhigang , Miao Shiguang , Feng Dongying , Liao Mingshui
Published: January 2019

Summertime (June–August 2015) radiative and turbulent heat fluxes were measured concurrently at two sites (urban and suburban) in Beijing. The urban site has slightly lower incoming and outgoing shortwave radiation, lower atmospheric transmissivity and a lower surface albedo than the suburban site. Both sites receive similar incoming longwave radiation. Although the suburban site had larger daytime outgoing longwave radiation (L↑), differences in the daily mean L↑ values are small, as the urban site has higher nocturnal L↑. Overall, both the midday and daily mean net all‐wave radiation (Q*) for the two sites are nearly equal. However, there are significant differences between the sites in the surface energy partitioning. The urban site has smaller turbulent sensible heat (Q
H) (21–25% of Q* [midday–daily]) and latent heat (Q
E) fluxes (21–45% of Q*). Whereas, the suburban proportions of Q* are Q
H 32–32% and Q
E 39–66%. The daily (midday) mean Bowen ratio (Q
H/Q
E) was 0.56 and 0.49 (0.98 and 0.83) for the urban and suburban sites, respectively. These values are low compared with other urban and suburban areas with similar or larger fractions of vegetated cover. Likely, these are caused by the widespread external water use for road cleaning/wetting, greenbelts, and air conditioners. Our suburban site has quite different land cover to most previous suburban studies as crop irrigation supplements rainfall. These results are important in enhancing our understanding of surface–atmosphere energy exchanges in Chinese cities and can aid the development and evaluation of urban climate models and inform urban planning strategies in the context of rapid global urbanization and climate change.
Instructions Moderate the Relationship between Creative Performance in Figural Divergent Thinking and Reasoning Capacity
Authors: Wilken Andrea , Forthmann Boris , Holling Heinz
Published: January 2019

In this study with within‐subject design, the “be‐creative effect” was investigated using three instructions in figural divergent‐thinking tasks: Besides a be‐fluent instruction, a be‐creative instruction, and a be‐creative instruction combined with strategies were applied. In addition, reasoning ability as part of fluid intelligence, self‐reported creative ideation, current motivation after reading the instructions, and task‐related interest were assessed. Multilevel analysis applying random‐intercept‐constant‐slope models found significant main effects of the instructions on creative performance and fluency. Both be‐creative instructions yielded a rise in creative performance in divergent thinking tasks with additional improvement due to supporting strategies. The be‐fluent instruction enhanced the quantity of ideas but decreased creative performance. Task‐related interest turned out to be a better predictor of creative performance than the self‐estimated expected interest prior to working on the task. Moreover, the relationship of creative performance and reasoning ability was moderated by instruction, with no relationship with a be‐fluent instruction and small to moderate positive effects with both instructions emphasizing creative ideas.
Design and effectiveness of pulsed electric fields towards seed disinfection
Authors: Evrendilek Gulsun A , Karatas Berna , Uzuner Sibel , Tanasov Igor
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Seeds harbor different microorganisms on their surfaces that degrade seed quality, thus causing an economic loss. Even though different approaches are available for the disinfection of seed surfaces, there is a need to develop environmentally friendly and sustainable technologies. A bench‐scale pulsed electric field (PEF) unit was designed to inactivate microflora of eight seeds after which the resultant vigor of the treated seeds was determined.

RESULTS

Significant reductions were obtained in endogenous natural and inoculated pathogenic (Alternaria brassica and Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris, Drechslera graminea and Fusarium graminearum) microflora of seeds. The survival ratios of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria and of total mold and yeast decreased significantly for winter wheat and barley, parsley, onion, lettuce, tomato, and garden rocket with the PEF treatments of 240 and 960 J. A significant increase in germination ratio was observed for winter wheat and barley, lettuce, and tomato with 960 J. Germination energy increased for parsley with 240 J and for winter wheat and barley, lettuce, tomato, and garden rocket with 960 J. A better root development and seedling were found for winter barley.

CONCLUSION

PEFs are a viable option to both disinfect seed surfaces and improve seed vigor. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of tyrosinase‐catalyzed crosslinking on the structure and allergenicity of turbot parvalbumin mediated by caffeic acid
Authors: Tian Shenglan , Ma Jiaju , Ahmed Ishfaq , Lv Liangtao , Li Zhenxing , Lin Hong
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Enzymatic treatment of allergenic protein can alter their functional properties under a mild reaction condition due to specificity of enzymes. Phenolic compounds act as mediators and enhance the crosslinking reactions. The study aimed to assess the changes in the structure and immunoglobulin G (IgG) binding capacity of turbot parvalbumin (PV) upon crosslinking with tyrosinase (Tyr) in the absence and presence of caffeic acid.

RESULTS

Sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) analysis revealed the appearance of higher molecular weight bands (24, 36 kDa) in the crosslinked PV. The secondary structure of crosslinked PV became loosened and disordered. The results of intrinsic fluorescence and ultraviolet absorption spectral analyses, as well as surface hydrophobicity and free amino group analyses also revealed structural changes. As observed by western blot analysis, the intensity of the PV bands reduced upon Tyr treatment, indicating reduced binding of specific IgG to PV. Moreover, the indirect ELISA (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay) analysis confirmed that the IgG binding ability of crosslinked PV was reduced 34.94%.

CONCLUSION

Enzymatic treatment mitigated the allergenicity of fish PV, which was closely related to the alterations in the conformational structure. This treatment showed potential for developing hypoallergenic fish products under mild reaction conditions. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Combination of thermal pretreatment and alcohol‐assisted aqueous processing for rapeseed oil extraction
Authors: Tian Lingyu , Ren Yanqin , Yang Ruijin , Zhao Qiyan , Zhang Wenbin
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

The alcohol‐assisted aqueous extraction processing (AAEP) of oil has many advantages such as no need for demulsification and relative low cost compared with enzymatic aqueous extraction processing (EAEP). Three kinds of thermal pretreatments including dry‐heating, wet‐heating and soak‐heating followed by the AAEP of rapeseed oil were investigated.

RESULTS

Both soak‐heating and wet‐heating had a higher contribution rate to oil yield than dry‐heating due to the enhancement of heat transfer rate owing to the high moisture content in the rapeseed cells. However, oil from soak‐heated rapeseeds showed a much lower level on peroxide value (0.41 mmol kg−1) than that of wet‐heated rapeseeds (5.23 mmol kg−1). In addition, transmission electron microscopy images illustrated that promoting effects of soak‐heating and wet‐heating on oil release were attributed to the coalescence of oil bodies. A relative low concentration of alcohol solution as an extraction medium, the highest oil recovery of 92.77% was achieved when ground rapeseeds (mean particle size: 21.23 µm) were treated with 45% (v/v) alcohol for 2 h at 70 °C and pH 9.0. Both the acid value and the peroxide value are lower than the commercial oil produced by extrusion and hexane extraction. Furthermore, the oil produced from AAEP also had higher content of tocopherols and lower content of trans‐fatty acids than the commercial oil.

CONCLUSION

AAEP of oil from soak‐heated rapeseeds is a promising alternative to conventional oil extraction methods. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The effect of using different types and rates of onion‐water extract in meatball production on the formation of heterocyclic aromatic amines
Authors: Nuray Meryem , Oz Fatih
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

The effect of using different types (yellow, white and purple) and rates (0.25%, 0.50% and 0.75%) of onion‐water extract in meatball production on the various quality criteria of meatballs and the formation of heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCAs) was investigated.

RESULTS

It was determined that cooking process caused a reduction in the water content of meatballs as well as an increase in pH values. MeIQx, 7,8‐DiMeIQx, 4,8‐DiMeIQx, PhIP, AαC and MeAαC could not be detected in any of the analyzed meatballs, while IQx, IQ and MeIQ were determined in some of the samples.

CONCLUSION

The use of 0.25% and 0.50% white onion‐water extract in meatball preparation inhibited the formation of IQx and IQ that were identified in the control group, but their quantities could not be determined. However, the use of water extract of varying types of onions in meatball preparation increased the total HCA content due to the increase of the MeIQ formation. In addition, it was determined that as the rate of onion‐water extract for varying types of onions increased, the total HCA amount also increased. The total HCA amount of the meatballs varied between 0.05 and 0.1 ng g−1. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The visual aesthetics measurement on interface design education
Authors: Wu Chun Mao , Li Pei
Published: January 2019

Visual aesthetics measurement has been studied in the information processing. Indeed, it was mainly conducted by designers and experts previously, which is related to evaluate final works of visual aesthetics. By contrast, relations of inspirations and outcomings are largely ignored in the field of interface design. The result was measured by students, users, and experts, so as to understand the different effects of the interface design inspirations. Two studies were to investigate the influences of inspirations, such as the image‐verbal–oriented (task 1) and the interface‐image–oriented (task 2), and measure the outcomings by users, experts, and participants works. Thirty participants, two experts, and two users, rated the interface design works. The code frequency and correlation analysis were adopted. The findings demonstrate that usability and aesthetics are scored highly in task 2 that is supported by the rating from users and experts. The originality and creativity are rated superior in task 1 than task 2 that is rated by experts. This study reveals that image‐verbal–oriented inspiration matches to the creativity and originality in interface design, and the interface‐image–oriented inspiration was related to the usability and aesthetics, which contribute to the interface design processing and inspiration adoption.
Characterization of Placental Microvasculature Using Superb Microvascular Imaging
Authors: Mack Lauren M. , Mastrobattista Joan M. , Gandhi Rajshi , Castro Eumenia C. , Burgess Angela P.H. , Lee Wesley
Published: January 2019

Superb Microvascular Imaging (SMI; Canon Medical Systems, Tustin, CA) uses clutter suppression to extract flow signals at rapid frame rates, which provides high‐resolution vessel‐branching details without the need for contrast agents. The potential diagnostic benefits of SMI, as described in other areas of medicine, requires further exploration during pregnancy. In this pictorial essay, we demonstrate the complementary use of SMI compared to conventional Doppler ultrasound and how it may improve our ability to characterize placental microvascular patterns without the need for ultrasound contrast agents.
Degradation and renaturalization of soils affected by tourist activity in the Bieszczady Mountains (South East Poland)
Authors: Drewnik Marek , Musielok Łukasz , Prędki Ryszard , Stolarczyk Mateusz , Szymański Wojciech
Published: January 2019

The main aims of this study were to determine the degree of soil degradation caused by hikers along tourist trails in broad‐leaved forests and subalpine meadows in the Bieszczady Mts. (SE Poland) using the entire thickness of the soil profile and to determine both the direction and rate of renaturalization of degraded soils experiencing renaturalization over different periods of time. Seven representative plots (out of 25) were selected for detailed study. On the research plots, three different but representative research sites arranged perpendicularly to the trail were selected: (a) type R representing soil located in the center of the fenced area and still experiencing renaturalization, (b) type T representing soil on the tourist trail currently being used, and (c) type N representing natural soil showing lack of signs of trampling. The studied soils affected by tourists have become degraded substantially over time to a varying degree. This was manifested by a truncation of the soil profile and by soil compaction. The maximum depth of erosion was found to be ~0.5 m. Stones forming a ‘post‐erosional pavement’ play a crucial role in limiting deeper soil erosion. Both the loosening of renaturalized soils resulting from freeze–thaw cycles and from needle‐ice formation occur relatively quick, although the formation of a topsoil A horizon is a slow process. A humid climate and soils exhibiting high‐soil organic matter content and high‐cation exchange capacity due to their loamy texture facilitate relatively fast restoration of the vegetation cover, which protects the soil from erosion.
Engaging patients, clinicians, and the community in a Clinical Data Research Network: Lessons learned from the CAPriCORN CDRN
Authors: Tambor Ellen , Shalowitz Madeleine , Harrington Joseph M. , Hull Kevin , Watson Natalie , Sital Shelly , Al Naber Jennifer , Miller Doriane
Published: January 2019

Engaging patients, clinicians, and community members in the development of a research network creates opportunities and challenges beyond engagement in discrete learning activities. This paper describes our experiences establishing and maintaining a stakeholder engagement infrastructure for the Chicago Area Patient‐Centered Outcomes Research Network (CAPriCORN) and highlights important lessons learned over the first 4 years. During this time, the CAPriCORN Patient and Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) appointed patient, clinician, and community representatives to governance and advisory groups throughout the network, developed a process and criteria for patient‐ and clinician‐centered review of research proposals, and evolved from a large, diverse group to a smaller yet still diverse, more actively engaged group with connections to the broader community. Key challenges faced by the PCAC have included determining the optimal size and composition of the group, understanding the complex structure of the network as a whole, coordinating with other network entities and functions, and integrating the patient and community voice into the research review process. Efforts to engage stakeholders in clinical data research networks should anticipate and develop solutions to address these challenges.
Dynamic electrochemical impedance study of fluoride conversion coating on AZ31 magnesium alloy to improve bio‐adaptability for orthopedic application
Authors: Saranya Kannan , Kalaiyarasan Madhu , Chatterjee Suvro , Rajendran Nallaiyan
Published: January 2019

In the present work, fluoride conversion coating was formed on AZ31 magnesium alloy at 40 °C and the conversion time was optimized. A smooth surface with pores were formed which was observed from SEM. The crystalline MgO and MgF2 formed on the surface were confirmed by EDAX and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The investigation on corrosion behavior of the coating was performed using potentiodynamic polarization, potentiostatic polarization and dynamic electrochemical impedance studies (DEIS). The coating stability was studied at various potentials ranging from −1.78 to −1.09 V which depicts that the coating was stable for wide range of potentials as compared to the substrate. The in vitro biomineralization of the coating was analyzed by immersing in Earle's solution for 7 days and the formation of nanospherical carbonated apatite with fluorine and magnesium was revealed by SEM/EDAX and ATR‐IR spectroscopy. The osteointegration and proliferation of MG63 and MSC cells on the coating were examined using MTT assay.
Oxidized Cashew Gum Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Maciel Jeanny S. , Azevedo Sara , Correia Clara R. , Costa Ana M. S. , Costa Rui R. , Magalhães Francisco A. , de Sousa Monteiro Aliny Abreu , Costa José Francisco Gomes , de Paula Regina C. M , Feitosa Judith P. A. , Mano João F.
Published: January 2019

In the last few years, several strategies have been proposed to fabricate scaffolds for tissue engineering (TE) applications; however, they are based on harsh and time‐consuming techniques. The choice for natural polymers such as cashew gum (CG) allows to circumvent the demands of biocompatibility and degradability of TE systems. In this work, CG, a polysaccharide derived fromAnacardium occidentaletrees, is functionalized with aldehyde groups through periodate oxidation. The resultant oxidized cashew gum (CGO) is mixed with gelatin (GE) to yield a covalently crosslinked hydrogel. CGO/GE sponges are obtained by employing a freeze‐drying methodology to the previously obtained hydrogels. The mechanical properties, swelling ability, and porosity of the GE/CGO sponges are tuned by using CGO with different degrees of oxidation. The resultant sponges can maintain high levels of water absorption and recover their initial mechanical properties after cyclic compression. Moreover, these porous and mechanically robust devices can support the adhesion and proliferation of cells, which can envision their application for the regeneration of soft tissues.
Brand love: Emotionality and development of its elements across the relationship lifecycle
Authors: Schmid David A. , Huber Frank
Published: January 2019

Brand love is the most emotionally intense connection between consumers and their brands. Referring to their interpersonal counterpart, it is assumed that consumer–brand relationships change their nature over time. However, most studies in this field do not take into consideration this dynamic characteristic. As part of a dynamic perspective of emotionality within consumer–brand relationships, this study is the first to integrate traditional relationship lifecycle concepts and interpersonal love theories. Addressing the developmental path of brand love dimensions over the course of a relationship, the analysis shows that the emotional bond with a brand as represented by brand love and its subdimensions do not follow a prototypical trajectory as assumed by traditional lifecycle concepts. Instead of forming an inverse U‐shape, the respective dimensions show divergent paths rather resembling the development of their interpersonal correspondent. Comparing hedonic and utilitarian brand concepts, it is shown that brand love can arise for hedonic brands and, just as well, for brands perceived as predominantly utilitarian. Moreover, the results advocate the singularity of brand love among relational constructs, thereby paving the way for a distinct theoretical approach centering on the lifecycle of love. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.
Under the influence of a blogger: The role of information‐seeking goals and issue involvement
Authors: Balabanis George , Chatzopoulou Elena
Published: January 2019

Bloggers in the postmodern era can influence the behaviour of consumers and alter their perceptions. The current study looks at the blogger influence phenomenon from a different theoretical perspective than existing literature did. By combining information behaviour and communication theory, it proposes a new conceptual framework by relying on the characteristics of the blogger, the blog content, motivation, and goals of information seeker. In this model, information seekers’ objectives and issue the involvement are important drivers of blog selection and determinants of the blog's influence. The framework was empirically tested in a sample of American users of beauty blogs. The results provide a confirmation of the postulated relationships. Three types of blog visits are identified and their effects and their attributes that make a blog influential are examined.
Earlier Dopaminergic Treatment in Parkinson's Disease Is Not Associated With Improved Outcomes
Authors: Schneider Ruth B. , Lu Xiang , Biglan Kevin , McDermott Michael P.
Published: January 2019

Background

The appropriate timing of dopaminergic treatment initiation in Parkinson's disease (PD) remains a matter of debate. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether earlier initiation of treatment was associated with less worsening of total UPDRS scores over 48 months.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of data from the CALM‐PD (Comparison of the Agonist Pramipexole With Levodopa on Motor Complications of Parkinson's Disease) trial to examine the associations between years since diagnosis and 48‐month changes in total and component UPDRS scores, Parkinson's Disease Quality of Life Scale (PDQUALIF) score, and the EuroQol‐5D visual analogue scale (VAS) score.

Results

There were no associations between years since PD diagnosis and 48‐month changes in total UPDRS, component UPDRS scores, PDQUALIF score, or EuroQol‐5D VAS score.

Conclusion

Earlier treatment was not associated with improved long‐term outcomes in this secondary analysis. Prospective studies are required to determine the appropriate timing of initiation of dopaminergic treatment to inform clinical practice.
Genetic analysis of the relation of telomere length‐related gene (RTEL1) and coronary heart disease risk
Authors: Lu Shijuan , Zhong Jianghua , Wu Miao , Huang Kang , Zhou Yilei , Zhong Zanrui , Li Qiang , Zhou Honghao
Published: January 2019

Background

Regulator of telomere elongation helicase 1 (RTEL1), a telomere length‐related gene, is closely linked to cancer and age‐related diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between genetic polymorphisms in the RTEL1 gene and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk.

Methods

In this case–control study, which includes samples from 596 CHD patients and 603 healthy controls, five SNPs in RTEL1 were selected. The genotypes were studied using the Agena MassARRAY platform, and the statistical analyses were performed using the chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests, genetic model analysis, and haplotype analysis.

Results

In the allele model, using the chi‐square test, we found that the patients with the “G” allele of rs6010620 and the “C” allele of rs4809324 in the RTEL1 gene showed a decreased risk of CHD once the results were adjusted for age and gender. In the genetic model, logistic regression analyses revealed that the rs6010620 polymorphism conferred a decreased risk of CHD in the codominant model (OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.31–0.88, p = 0.007 for the “G/G” genotype) and the recessive model (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.30–0.80, p = 0.004 for the “G/G” genotype). In addition, the haplotype “Grs6010620Trs6010621Trs4809324” of RTEL1 was associated with a 0.03‐fold decreased risk of CHD once the results were adjusted for age and gender (OR = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01–0.12, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings have demonstrated that the genetic variants of RTEL1 may have a protective role against CHD risk.
Forkhead box O3 promotes colon cancer proliferation and drug resistance by activating MDR1 expression
Authors: Gao Zhuanglei , Li Zhaoxia , Liu Yuelin , Liu Zhonghao
Published: January 2019

Background

Globally, colon cancer (CC) is the third reason of tumor‐related deaths. Previous reports indicate that Forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) is involved in the development of various tumors and may have different effects depending upon the types of tumors. Hence, this study was to examine the effects of FOXO3 on CC cells and uncover the possible mechanisms.

Methods

MTT and cell count assay were applied to analyze the viability of transfected CC cells. rVista, dual luciferase reporter assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay were used to identify the downstream target of FOXO3 in HCT116 cells. The mRNA and protein abundance of FOXO3 and MDR1 were determined by quantitative PCR and Western blot, respectively.

Results

Forkhead box O3 stimulated the proliferation of both HCT116 and DLD1 cells. Moreover, FOXO3 overexpression inhibited doxorubicin sensitivity of HCT116 cells, while the knockout of FOXO3 by FOXO3 shRNA restored the doxorubicin sensitivity in doxorubicin‐resistant HCT116 DR cells. Next, we found that FOXO3 directly bound to the promoter of MDR1 and enhanced MDR1 expression in HCT116 cells. MDR1 overexpression enhanced the viability and doxorubicin resistance of CC cells. Besides, MDR1 overexpression plasmid significantly abrogated the decrease in cell proliferation and resistance of HCT116 cells to doxorubicin caused by FOXO3 knockout.

Conclusion

Forkhead box O3 exhibited promotive effects on the proliferation and doxorubicin resistance in CC cells via targeting MDR1.
Introduction to the special issue: The WHO World Mental Health International College Student (WMH‐ICS) initiative
Authors: Cuijpers Pim , Auerbach Randy P. , Benjet Corina , Bruffaerts Ronny , Ebert David , Karyotaki Eirini , Kessler Ronald C.
Published: January 2019

Most mental disorders have their first onset in early adulthood. Epidemiological research, as well as research on preventive and early interventions, is therefore very important. This thematic issue focuses on one of the first systematic attempts to develop such services for college students. The WHO World Mental Health International College Student (WMH‐ICS) initiative is based on the largest and continuously growing epidemiological dataset ever collected in college students. Based on these results, the initiative has now started to implement internet‐based interventions for common mental disorders and emotional problems. In this special issue, a general paper about the initiative is presented, as well as a paper on the implementation of the WMH‐ICS initiative in low and middle income countries. It also includes several papers with core epidemiological results of the initiative, a meta‐analysis of internet‐based interventions for mental health problems in college students and the first results of trials conducted as part of the initiative. Taken together, the papers in this special issue show that WMH‐ICS is on its way to becoming a major initiative in addressing the problem of unmet need for treatment of mental health problems among college students.
Characterization of gluten‐free bread crumb baked at atmospheric and reduced pressures using TD‐NMR
Authors: Rondeau‐Mouro Corinne , Godfrin Célia , Cambert Mireille , Rouillac Judicaël , Diascorn Yves , Lucas Tiphaine , Grenier David
Published: January 2019

This research aimed to study the effects of using a partial vacuum for bread baking on macromolecules and water distribution in gluten‐free bread. Bread baking under partial vacuum results in greater oven rise and a larger gas fraction in the crumb. Because water's boiling point decreases under reduced pressure, it was expected that its distribution within the dough and its interactions with the others dough's constituents (mainly starch) would differ from those in bread baked under atmospheric pressure. Time‐domain nuclear magnetic resonance was used, as it has the rare capacity to quantify both gelatinization and retrogradation of starch. Complementary rheological measurements made it possible to show that crumb Young's modulus was mostly influenced by the gas fraction whereas there was little change in starch gelatinization and retrogradation when dough was baked under partial vacuum. When insufficiently hydrated (48%), the volume of breads was practically the same whatever the baking process. Meanwhile, the nuclear magnetic resonance results suggested that amylose short‐term crystallization (on cooling) is dependent on water content. In addition, crumb Young's modulus during storage at room temperature correlated with an increase in free induction decay signal intensity.
Sohlh1 is required for synaptonemal complex formation by transcriptionally regulating meiotic genes during spermatogenesis in mice
Authors: Li Yuan , Qi Wanjing , Liu Gongqing , Du Bing , Sun Qi , Zhang Xue , Jin Meiyu , Dong Wanwei , Liu Jia , Zheng Zhihong
Published: January 2019

Gonad‐specific transcription factor spermatogenesis‐ and oogenesis‐specific helix‐loop‐helix transcription factor 1 (SOHLH1) plays a key role in the transcriptional regulation of the expression of differentiating spermatogonial genes. However, its role in spermatocytes (meiotic male germ cells) remains largely unknown. In this study, Sohlh1 knockout (KO) male mice displayed meiotic defects at the zygotene stage during spermatogenesis. Microarray analyses identified 66 upregulated genes and 139 downregulated genes in Sohlh1 KO testes compared with those in wild‐type testes at postnatal Day 7.5. Among many of the downregulated genes, Sycp1 and Sycp3, which encode synaptonemal complex proteins 1 and 3 (SYCP1 and SYCP3), respectively, were significantly reduced in Sohlh1 knockout mice. Transmission electron microscopy revealed no formation of the synaptonemal complex in Sohlh1 KO spermatocytes. Luciferase reporter and chromatin‐immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated that SOHLH1 enhanced the expression of the Sycp1 and Sycp3 genes by binding the −1276, −708, and −94 basepairs (bp) E‐boxes upstream of the Sycp1 promoter and the −64 and −43 bp E‐boxes upstream of the Sycp3 promoter. Our data suggest that SOHLH1 transcriptionally regulates the expression of many target genes critical for the meiotic phase of spermatogenesis.
Kaempferol promotes primordial follicle activation through the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway and reduces DNA fragmentation of sheep preantral follicles cultured in vitro
Authors: Santos J. M. S. , Lins T. L. B. G. , Barberino R. S. , Menezes V. G. , Gouveia B. B. , Matos M. H. T.
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of kaempferol on the morphology, follicular activation, growth, and DNA fragmentation of ovine preantral follicles cultured in situ, and the effects of a phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) inhibitor and the expression of phosphorylated protein kinase B (pAKT) after culture. Ovine ovarian fragments were fixed for histological and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL) analyses (fresh control) or cultured in α‐MEM+ alone (control) or with different concentrations of kaempferol (0.1, 1, 10, or 100 μM) for 7 days. Follicles were classified as normal or atretic, primordial or growing, and the oocyte and follicle diameters were measured. Proliferating cells were analyzed and DNA fragmentation was evaluated by the TUNEL assay. Inhibition of PI3K activity was performed through pretreatment in media added with 50 µM LY294002 for 1 hr and pAKT immunohistochemistry was performed after culture in the absence or presence of LY294002. After culture, the percentage of normal follicles was similar among the treatments (p > 0.05), except for 100 µM kaempferol, which had less normal follicles (p < 0.05). Moreover, kaempferol at 10 μM showed a higher percentage of follicular activation and cell proliferation than the other treatments (p < 0.05) and a percentage of TUNEL‐positive cells similar to that in the fresh control and lower than other treatments (p < 0.05). LY294002 significantly inhibited primordial follicle activation stimulated by α‐MEM+ and 10 μM kaempferol and reduced pAKT expression in those follicles. In conclusion, 10 μM kaempferol promotes primordial follicle activation and cell proliferation through the PI3K/AKT pathway and reduces DNA fragmentation of ovine preantral follicles cultured in vitro.
Obesity, depression and hip pain
Authors: Schwarze Martin , Häuser Winfried , Schmutzer Gabriele , Brähler Elmar , Beckmann Nicholas A. , Schiltenwolf Marcus
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Up to 64% of the general population reports experiencing chronic pain, with the hip being one of the most frequent sites. An association has been shown between chronic back pain, obesity and depression. To date, a similar association has not been investigated with chronic hip pain.

Methods

A total of 2,515 subjects were chosen as a representative cross‐section of the German population. Each was provided with a questionnaire that included the Regional Pain Scale, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ‐C30), Beck Depression Inventory–Primary Care and Winkler social class index. Participant height and weight values were obtained from self‐reports. Using logistic regression methodology, we analysed the association between hip pain, obesity and increased depression scores.

Results

A total of 124 (4.9%) subjects reported chronic hip pain and an additional 39 (1.5%) reported chronic hip pain that was disabling. Hip pain affected 1–5 sites (oligolocular) in 47% of cases, and was widespread (6–19 sites) in 50%. Obesity and increased values on the depression scale were associated with an increased likelihood of chronic hip pain (odds ratio [OR] 2.55 and 8.53, respectively) compared with subjects without pain. Increased values on the depression scale (OR 28.22) increased the likelihood of experiencing disabling chronic hip pain in comparison with pain free individuals.

Conclusions

Hip pain is rarely the sole site of pain. Obesity and increased values on the depression scale are associated with chronic hip pain. Increased values on the depression scale are associated with disabling chronic hip pain.
Phrenic Nerve Conduction in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Vincent Marjolaine , Court‐Fortune Isabelle , Costes Frédéric , Antoine Jean‐Christophe , Camdessanché Jean‐Philippe
Published: January 2019

Introduction: Assessment of diaphragm compound muscle action potential by noninvasive phrenic nerve stimulation at the neck is well described. However, normal values in a large cohort of healthy subjects are lacking. Our objective was to determine reference values of phrenic nerve conduction in healthy subjects. Methods: We recruited 155 healthy subjects (25–79 years old) and measured mean amplitude (PhrenAmp) and latency (PhrenLat) of motor responses according to Bolton's method. Results: The lower limit for PhrenAmp was 0.28 and 0.25 mV and the upper limit for PhrenLat was 8.41 and 8.56 ms for right and left side, respectively. PhrenLat was correlated with age. PhrenAmp, PhrenLat and area were significantly higher in men. Tolerance to phrenic nerve stimulation was excellent. Conclusions: Our study provides normative values of phrenic nerve motor responses in a large cohort of healthy subjects and identifies age and sex as factors of variation. Muscle Nerve 59:451–456, 2019
Concurrent shape and topology optimization involving design‐dependent pressure loads using implicit B‐spline curves
Authors: Zhou Ying , Zhang Weihong , Zhu Jihong
Published: January 2019

This work develops a concurrent shape and topology optimization method to solve the design problems of which the pressure loads are applied on designable boundaries. Implicit B‐spline curves including open B‐spline and closed B‐spline are introduced in the form of level‐set functions to act as common design primitives for the description of both moving pressure boundary and inner topology boundaries of a structure. Boolean operations are applied to describe mathematically the shape and topology variations. An artificial nondesignable offset domain of small bandwidth is introduced along the moving pressure boundary to ensure reasonably the imposition of pressure loads on solid materials. The pressure loads are numerically discretized onto the control nodes of finite cell method used for structural analysis with fixed mesh. Sensitivities of design‐dependent pressure loads with respect to both shape and topology design variables are explicitly derived. Numerical problems are finally solved to illustrate the presented method.
A survey on patients' characteristics, perception of family support and diabetes self‐management among type 2 diabetes patients in South‐West Nigeria
Authors: Ojewale Lucia Y. , Oluwatosin Abimbola O. , Fasanmade Adesoji A. , Odusan Olatunde
Published: January 2019

Aim

To determine the association between patients' characteristics, perception of family support and diabetes self‐management (DSM) behaviours among type 2 diabetes patients.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional design was used and data were collected between July–September 2016. The study is part of a larger quasi‐experimental study.

Methods

One hundred and ninety‐seven diabetes mellitus (DM) patients from two teaching hospitals in south‐west Nigeria participated. Questionnaire was used in collecting information on sociodemographic, clinical data, DSM and perception of family support.

Results

Most (71.6%) of the participants were females and 35% were on insulin therapy. Mean age was 60.7 (SD: 11.3) years and 11.7% had had DM for over 20 years. Overall, DSM was positively influenced by previous diabetes education and duration of diabetes. Perception of family support was also positively associated with and influenced DSM.