bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive association between high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Japanese workers: 6‐year follow‐up
Authors: Wang Chaochen , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Tamakoshi Koji , Uemura Mayu , Li Yuanying , Wada Keiko , Yamashita Kentaro , Kawaguchi Leo , Toyoshima Hideaki , Aoyama Atsuko
Published: March 2013

Background

Elevated high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), a marker of low‐grade systemic inflammation, may be involved in the etiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, whether inflammation precedes development of T2DM independent of cigarette smoking and obesity remains to be confirmed.

Methods

We studied 4213 civil servants in a local government in Japan aged 35–66 years at baseline in 2002, who donated blood samples and were followed 6 years. Hazard ratios (HR) of T2DM according to the hs‐CRP quartiles [range Q1: 0.02–0.18 (reference), Q2: 0.18–0.33, Q3: 0.33–0.67 and Q4: 0.67‐9.62 mg/L) were estimated by Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for gender, age, body mass index, alcohol intake, smoking status (current, past and never), number of cigarettes per day, physical activity, family history of diabetes (Model 1) and variables in Model 1 + glucose (Model 2).

Results

The geometric mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] of hs‐CRP was 0.36 mg/L (0.34–0.37). During the follow‐up, 156 new T2DM cases were confirmed. In total sample, Model 2 HRs (95% CIs) for hs‐CRP quartiles Q2–Q4 compared with Q1 were 0.69 (0.36–1.26), 1.47 (0.91–2.39) and 1.78 (1.10–2.88), respectively (p for linear trend = 0.014). Stratified analysis revealed that a statistically significant association was observed only in normal weight non‐current smokers with Model 2 HRs (CIs) being 0.79 (0.29–2.17), 2.63 (1.25–5.56) and 3.19 (1.49–6.86) for Q2–Q4 compared with Q1, respectively (p for linear trend = 0.0006). The relationship did not change materially after further adjusting for log‐homeostasis model assessment or exclusion of past smokers.

Conclusions

These findings imply that higher hs‐CRP itself or existence of chronic systemic inflammation precedes onset of T2DM independent of obesity and smoking. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The COBLL1 C allele is associated with lower serum insulin levels and lower insulin resistance in overweight and obese children
Authors: Mancina Rosellina Margherita , Burza Maria Antonella , Maglio Cristina , Pirazzi Carlo , Sentinelli Federica , Incani Michela , Montalcini Tiziana , Pujia Arturo , Congiu Tiziana , Loche Sandro , Pilia Sabrina , Wiklund Olov , Borén Jan , Romeo Stefano , Baroni Marco Giorgio
Published: March 2013

Background

Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic worldwide, and it is associated with metabolic complications, such as insulin resistance. Recently, a genetic variation (rs7607980) in the COBLL1 gene has been associated with lower insulin resistance in adults. The aim of the study was to investigate if the association between COBLL1 rs7607980 genetic variant and lower insulin resistance was present early in life.

Methods

This sequence variant was genotyped in 878 overweight and obese children (mean age: 10 years) from Sardinia, Italy, from the outpatient clinic of the Pediatric Endocrine Unit, at the Regional Hospital for Microcitaemia in Cagliari. Insulin resistance was assessed by measurement of fasting circulating insulin levels before and after an oral glucose tolerance test and by HOMA‐IR.

Results

The COBLL1 rs7607980 C allele was associated with lower fasting insulin and HOMA‐IR levels (p = 0.002 and p = 0.035, respectively) in overweight and obese children. Importantly, lower insulin levels were also observed 2 h after oral glucose tolerance test in C allele carriers (p = 0.009).

Conclusions

The present study shows for the first time, the association between COBLL1 rs7607980 C allele, lower serum insulin levels and lower insulin resistance in overweight and obese children. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diversity and selective pressures of anticoagulants in three medicinal leeches (Hirudinida: Hirudinidae, Macrobdellidae)
Authors: Kvist Sebastian , Min Gi‐Sik , Siddall Mark E
Published: March 2013

Although medicinal leeches have long been used as treatment for various ailments because of their potent anticoagulation factors, neither the full diversity of salivary components that inhibit coagulation, nor the evolutionary selection acting on them has been thoroughly investigated. Here, we constructed expressed sequence tag libraries from salivary glands of two species of medicinal hirudinoid leeches, Hirudo verbana and Aliolimnatis fenestrata, and identified anticoagulant‐orthologs through BLASTx searches. The data set then was augmented by the addition of a previously constructed EST library from the macrobdelloid leech Macrobdella decora. The identified orthologs then were compared and contrasted with well‐characterized anticoagulants from a variety of leeches with different feeding habits, including non‐sanguivorous species. Moreover, four different statistical methods for predicting signatures of positive and negative evolutionary pressures were used for 10 rounds each to assess the level and type of selection acting on the molecules as a whole and on specific sites. In total, sequences showing putative BLASTx‐orthology with five and three anticoagulant‐families were recovered in the A. fenestrata and H. verbana EST libraries respectively. Selection pressure analyses predicted high levels of purifying selection across the anticoagulant diversity, although a few isolated sites showed signatures of positive selection. This study represents a first attempt at mapping the anticoagulant repertoires in a comparative fashion across several leech families.
Twenty‐one years of microemulsion electrokinetic chromatography (1991–2012): A powerful analytical tool
Authors: Yang Hua , Ding Yao , Cao Jun , Li Ping
Published: March 2013

Microemulsion electrokinetic chromatography (MEEKC) is a CE separation technique, which utilizes buffered microemulsions as the separation media. In the past two decades, MEEKC has blossomed into a powerful separation technique for the analysis of a wide range of compounds. Pseudostationary phase composition is so critical to successful resolution in EKC, and several variables could be optimized including surfactant/co‐surfactant/oil type and concentration, buffer content, and pH value. Additionally, MEEKC coupled with online sample preconcentration approaches could significantly improve the detection sensitivity. This review comprehensively describes the development of MEEKC from the period 1991 to 2012. Areas covered include basic theory, microemulsion composition, improving resolution and enhancing sensitivity methods, detection techniques, and applications of MEEKC.
Reorientation of microfluidic channel enables versatile dielectrophoretic platforms for cell manipulations
Authors: Tang Shi‐Yang , Zhang Wei , Yi Pyshar , Baratchi Sara , Kalantar‐zadeh Kourosh , Khoshmanesh Khashayar
Published: March 2013

Dielectrophoresis is a versatile tool for the sorting, immobilization, and characterization of cells in microfluidic systems. The performance of dielectrophoretic systems strongly relies on the configuration of microelectrodes, which produce a nonuniform electric field. However, once fabricated, the microelectrodes cannot be reconfigured to change the characteristics of the system. Here, we show that the reorientation of the microfluidic channel with respect to the microelectrodes can be readily utilized to alter the characteristics of the system. This enables us to change the location and density of immobilized viable cells across the channel, release viable cells along customized numbers of streams within the channel, change the deflection pattern of nonviable cells along the channel, and improve the sorting of viable and nonviable cells in terms of flow throughput and efficiency of the system. We demonstrate that the reorientation of the microfluidic channel is an effective tool to create versatile dielectrophoretic platforms using the same microelectrode design.
Sorting the Relationships Among Performance Measurement, Program Evaluation, and Performance Management
Authors: Hatry Harry P.
Published: March 2013

The chapter provides a brief history of program evaluation, performance measurement, and performance management in the United States. It discusses their advantages, disadvantages, applications, and complementarities. The chapter finds that program evaluation and performance measurement have different but basically complementary purposes. Program evaluation provides in‐depth, ad hoc information on major program/policy issues. Performance‐measurement systems have provided data primarily on outcomes, but, as long as quality controls are in place, can cover many more public programs during each year—information needed by public managers. The chapter also provides suggestions for improving both performance measurement and program evaluation to make them more useful to public officials. Finally, the chapter addresses two future issues meriting attention by evaluators: (a) the need to focus more on linking monetary costs to outcomes; and (b) the need of public officials for obtaining better estimates of future outcomes and costs. ©Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Performance Management and Evaluation in the Danish Public Employment Service
Authors: Boll Joachim , Høeberg Lars
Published: March 2013

In this chapter we discuss the integration of data‐driven monitoring and evaluation using the case of Denmark's Public Employment System (PES) as an example. The responsibility for planning and delivering labor‐market services is divided between national authorities and local authorities. This division creates a particular need for accountability and the monitoring of results. The response to these challenges has been to construct a system of systematic monitoring and evaluation, all drawing on a common data source. The chapter argues that the common data foundation for evaluation and monitoring has proved valuable, especially at the level of policy making and upper management. However, there are still challenges in establishing a results‐based focus in the service‐delivering front‐line organizations. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Marbled Inflation From Population Structure in Gene‐Based Association Studies With Rare Variants
Authors: Liu Qianying , Nicolae Dan L. , Chen Lin S.
Published: March 2013

Accurate genetic association studies are crucial for the detection and the validation of disease determinants. One of the main confounding factors that affect accuracy is population stratification, and great efforts have been extended for the past decade to detect and to adjust for it. We have now efficient solutions for population stratification adjustment for single‐SNP (where SNP is single‐nucleotide polymorphisms) inference in genome‐wide association studies, but it is unclear whether these solutions can be effectively applied to rare variation studies and in particular gene‐based (or set‐based) association methods that jointly analyze multiple rare and common variants. We examine here, both theoretically and empirically, the performance of two commonly used approaches for population stratification adjustment—genomic control and principal component analysis—when used on gene‐based association tests. We show that, different from single‐SNP inference, genes with diverse composition of rare and common variants may suffer from population stratification to various extent. The inflation in gene‐level statistics could be impacted by the number and the allele frequency spectrum of SNPs in the gene, and by the gene‐based testing method used in the analysis. As a consequence, using a universal inflation factor as a genomic control should be avoided in gene‐based inference with sequencing data. We also demonstrate that caution needs to be exercised when using principal component adjustment because the accuracy of the adjusted analyses depends on the underlying population substructure, on the way the principal components are constructed, and on the number of principal components used to recover the substructure.
ViSEN: Methodology and Software for Visualization of Statistical Epistasis Networks
Authors: Hu Ting , Chen Yuanzhu , Kiralis Jeff W. , Moore Jason H.
Published: March 2013

The nonlinear interaction effect among multiple genetic factors, i.e. epistasis, has been recognized as a key component in understanding the underlying genetic basis of complex human diseases and phenotypic traits. Due to the statistical and computational complexity, most epistasis studies are limited to interactions with an order of two. We developed ViSEN to analyze and visualize epistatic interactions of both two‐way and three‐way. ViSEN not only identifies strong interactions among pairs or trios of genetic attributes, but also provides a global interaction map that shows neighborhood and clustering structures. This visualized information could be very helpful to infer the underlying genetic architecture of complex diseases and to generate plausible hypotheses for further biological validations. ViSEN is implemented in Java and freely available at https://sourceforge.net/projects/visen/.
Focus on the role of the CXCL12/CXCR4 chemokine axis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Albert Sébastien , Riveiro Maria Eugenia , Halimi Caroline , Hourseau Muriel , Couvelard Anne , Serova Maria , Barry Béatrix , Raymond Eric , Faivre Sandrine
Published: March 2013

The human chemokine system includes approximately 48 chemokines and 19 chemokine receptors. The CXCL12/CXCR4 system is one of the most frequently studied that is also found overexpressed in a large variety of tumors. The CXCL12/CXCR4 axis has been increasingly identified as an important target in cancer growth, metastasis, relapse, and resistance to therapy. In this review, we highlight current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involving chemokines CXCL12/CXCR4 and their consequences in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Overexpression of CXCL12/CXCR4 in HNSCC appears to activate cellular functions, including motility, invasion, and metastatic processes. Current findings suggest that CXCR4 and epithelial–mesenchymal transition markers are associated with tumor aggressiveness and a poor prognosis, and may be suitable biomarkers for head and neck tumors with high metastatic potential. Furthermore, knowledge of the role of CXCR4 in HNSCC could influence the development of new targeted therapies for treatment, aimed at improving the prognosis of this disease. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 35: 1819–1828, 2013
Effects of Ti, PMMA, UHMWPE, and Co–Cr wear particles on differentiation and functions of bone marrow stromal cells
Authors: Jiang Yunpeng , Jia Tanghong , Gong Weiming , Wooley Paul H. , Yang Shang‐You
Published: March 2013

This study investigates the roles of orthopedic biomaterial particles [Ti‐alloy, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), ultrahigh‐molecular‐weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), Co–Cr alloy] on the differentiation and functions of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). Cells were isolated from femurs of BALB/c mice and cultured in complete osteoblast‐induction medium in presence of micron‐sized biomaterial particles at various doses. 3‐(4,5)‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay and lactate dehydrogenase assay were performed for cell proliferation and cytotoxicity. Differentiation and function of osteoblasts were evaluated by alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin, RANKL, OSX, and Runx2 expressions. Murine interleukin‐1 (IL‐1), IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐α in culture media were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Challenge with low doses of Ti, UHMWPE, or Co–Cr particles markedly promoted the bone marrow cell proliferation while high dose of Co–Cr significantly inhibited cell growth (p < 0.05). Cells challenged with low dose of PMMA or UHMWPE particles (0.63 mg/mL) exhibited strong ALP activity, whereas Ti and Co–Cr groups showed minimal effects (p < 0.05). UHMWPE and Ti particles also promoted higher expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction data suggested that cells treated with low dose (0.5 mg/mL) particles resulted in distinctly diminished RANKL expression compared to those exposed to high concentrated (3 mg/mL) particles. In conclusion, various types of wear debris particles behaved differently in the differentiation, maturation, and functions of osteogenic cells; and the particulate debris‐interacted BMSCs may play an important role in the pathogenesis and process of the debris‐associated aseptic prosthetic loosening. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 2817–2825, 2013.
Estimation of Runoff, Peak Discharge and Sediment Load at the Event Scale in a Medium‐Size Mediterranean Watershed Using the Annagnps Model
Authors: Bisantino T. , Bingner R. , Chouaib W. , Gentile F. , Trisorio Liuzzi G.
Published: March 2013

In this paper, the Annualized Agricultural Non‐Point Source (AnnAGNPS) model has been used to estimate runoff, peak discharge and sediment load at the event scale in a Mediterranean watershed. The study area is the Carapelle torrent, Southern Italy (area = 506 km2), where continuous rainfall, streamflow and sediment load data are available. Nineteen flood events have been registered in the period 2007–2009 and were used for the application of the model.

The aim of the paper is to evaluate the predictive accuracy of the model at the event scale, in a medium‐size watershed, given the specific conditions of the semi‐arid environments. A sensitivity analysis has been carried out to assign the correct parameterization: the mean normalized output variation of the most meaningful input parameters pointed out the influence of the curve number on runoff, peak discharge and sediment load predictions (values greater than 1); the MN Manning's roughness coefficient and K, C and P factors of the universal soil loss equation showed a moderate influence on sediment load simulations (values between 0·5 and 1).

The selection of the Soil Conservation Service synthetic storm types has been based on the observed storm events analysis to improve the peak discharge simulations. The model prediction has proved to be good for runoff (R2 = 0·74, NSE = 0·75, W = 0·92) and peak discharge (R2 = 0·85, NSE = 0·70, W = 0·94), and satisfactory for sediment yield (R2 = 0·70, NSE = 0·63, W = 0·91). The relative error is lower for high events; this result is quite interesting in semi‐arid environments, where most of the annual sediment yield is concentrated in a few, severe events. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Soil Erosion Assessment in Kondoa Eroded Area in Tanzania using Universal Soil Loss Equation, Geographic Information Systems and Socioeconomic Approach
Authors: Ligonja P. J. , Shrestha R. P.
Published: March 2013

Soil conservation measures including cutoff drains, tree planting, Crops diversifications and destocking were implemented in Kondoa eroded area (KEA) for decades. This study assessed soil erosion changes in KEA and examined drivers of changes using Universal Soil Loss Equation, Geographic Information Systems and socioeconomic survey. Soil erosion was predicted by using data on soil, digital elevation model, rainfall and land use/cover visually interpreted from multitemporal satellite imageries. The predicted average soil erosions were 14·7, 23 and 15.7 Mg ha−1y−1 during 1973, 1986 and 2008, respectively. The area under very high soil erosion severity that was 30% in 1973, 26% in 1986 and 25% in 2008, whereas the area with high erosion severity was 26% in 1973 changed into 49% in 1986 and 2008 indicating recent stabilization. The area with moderate erosion increased from 15%, 16% and 18% during the same period. Field survey confirms a decrease of soil erosion in KEA compared with the past showing better soil conservation. Age of farmers, long‐term adoption of conservation practices and on‐farm tree planting were found to be the major factors contributing toward reduced soil erosion. Major limitations in soil conservation were poor mainstreaming of conservation activities on local production systems and lack of institutions promoting conservation at the community level. The study concluded that long‐term conservation investment for restoration, protection and socioeconomic support contributes significantly in land rehabilitation in KEA. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effect of Additive on the Performance and Phase Separation of Benzo[1,2‐b:3,4‐b′]dithiophene‐Based Polymer Heterojunction Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Ni Nan , Qu Bo , Tian Di , Cong Zhiyuan , Wang Weiping , Gao Chao , Xiao Lixin , Chen Zhijian , Gong Qihuang , Wei Wei
Published: March 2013

An alternating copolymer (PBDTC10DBT) of benzo[1,2‐b:3,4‐b′]dithiophene (BDT) as donor and 4,7‐di(3‐decylthiophen‐2‐yl)‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole (C10DBT) as acceptor is designed and synthesized. In order to investigate the effect of the 1,8‐diiodooctane (DIO) additive on the morphology and photovoltaic performance, polymer solar cells (PSCs) based on PBDTC10DBT:[6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC61BM) are fabricated. The morphology of blend films and the interpenetrating network between the donor and the acceptor is examined using atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. This work shows that the PBDTC10DBT:PC61BM blend films with added DIO (3%, v/v) have improved absorption and controlled phase separation. Morphology with a domain size of 20–30 nm that forms in the DIO system is proposed to facilitate charge transport and minimize charge carrier recombination, which are the main reasons why the power conversion efficiency of the PSCs is improved from 1.93% (without DIO) to 2.23% (with DIO).

magnified image
Direct radiofrequency phase control in MRI by digital waveform playback at the larmor frequency
Authors: Jesmanowicz Andrzej , Nencka Andrew , Hyde James S.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

A scalable multiband and multichannel digital magnetic resonance imaging system has been developed with the goal of reducing the time needed for acquisition of a single volume of gradient‐recalled echo‐planar images of the brain.

Methods

Transmit pulses are created by an offline computer equipped with a Pentek excitation card (PCIe model 78621) that was built around the Texas Instruments D/A converter (DAC5688).

Results

The spectral purity of pulses made in this way surpasses the quality of pulses made by the standard modulators of the scanner, even when using the same pulse‐creation algorithm. There is no need to mix reference waveforms with the magnetic resonance imaging signal to obtain inter‐k‐space coherency for different repetitions. The key was the use of a system clock to create the Larmor frequency used for pulse formation. The 3‐ and 4‐fold slice accelerations were tested using phantoms as well as functional and resting‐state magnetic resonance imaging of the human brain.

Conclusion

Synthesizers with limited modulation‐time steps should be replaced not only because of the improved spectral quality of radiofrequency pulses but also for the exceptional coherence of pulses at different slice‐selection frequencies. Magn Reson Med 71:846–852, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
New spatiotemporal approaches for fully refocused, multislice ultrafast 2D MRI
Authors: Schmidt Rita , Frydman Lucio
Published: March 2013

Purpose

Single‐scan multislice acquisition schemes play key roles in magnetic resonance imaging. Central among these “ultrafast” experiments stands echo‐planar imaging, a technique that although of optimal sampling is challenged by T2* artifacts. Recent studies described alternatives based on spatiotemporal encoding (SPEN), which are particularly robust if implemented in a “full‐refocusing” mode. This work extends this modality from the single‐slice acquisitions in which it has hitherto been implemented, by introducing a variety of multislice schemes scanning 3D volumes.

Methods

Multislice SPEN employing either inversion or stimulated echo pulses and timed to fulfill the demands of full refocusing, are demonstrated. The performance of the ensuing methods was examined in “Hybrid” modalities encoding data in k‐ and direct‐space, in low‐specific absorption rate stimulated‐echo approaches, and in direct‐space SPEN approaches.

Results

When applied in phantoms and in in vivo systems, the ensuing single‐shot sequences evidenced similar robustness, sensitivity, and resolution qualities as previously discussed 2D single‐slice schemes, while enabling a rapid sampling of the third dimension via multislicing.

Conclusion

The unique benefits deriving from fully refocused, multislice, single‐scan SPEN sequences were corroborated by phantom tests, as well as by in vivo scans at 3 and 7 T. Low specific absorption rate multislice SPEN variants compatible with human studies were demonstrated. Magn Reson Med 71:711–722, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Some implications of pricing bundles
Authors: Huang Xiao , Nagarajan Mahesh , Sošić Greys
Published: March 2013

In this article, we consider a problem in which two suppliers can sell their respective products both individually and together as a bundle, and study the impact of bundle pricing. Four pricing models (centralized, decentralized, coop–comp, and comp–coop) are analyzed with regard to the competition formats and sequences. As one would expect, the firms are always better off when pricing decisions are centralized. However, rather surprisingly, we find that firms may be worse off if the bundle prices are set in a cooperative way; we provide analytical characterization of those instances. Numerical studies show that these insights also hold for some nonlinear demand. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2013
Thermal and optical properties of highly fluorinated copolymers of methacrylates
Authors: Teng Hongxiang , Wan Zilu , Koike Yasuhiro , Okamoto Yoshi
Published: March 2013

Copolymers of pentafluorophenylhexafluoroisopropyl methacrylate (FPPMA) with trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFEMA) were prepared in THF solution and in bulk using azobisisobutyronitrile as a free radical initiator. The monomer reactivity ratios of TFEMA (M1) and FPPMA (M2) were calculated as r1 = 0.55 and r2 = 0.07. The refractive indices of poly(TFEMA) and poly(FPPMA) are very similar as 1.435 and 1.430, respectively, at 532 nm, and the copolymer films were transparent. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the copolymers were in the range of 80–90°C and showed a negative deviation from the Gordon–Taylor equation. The thermal decomposition temperature (Td) was increased with the content of FPPMA in copolymers. Low water absorption for 1:1 FPPMA/TFEMA copolymer was detected. Copolymers of FPPMA with hexafluoroisopropyl methacrylate (HFPMA) were also prepared. The monomer reactivity ratios of HFPMA (M1) and FPPMA (M2) were calculated as r1 = 0.43 and r2 = 0.10. The Tgs of the copolymers were in the range of 88–95°C and showed also a negative deviation from the Gordon–Taylor equation. Tg and Td of the copolymers were increased with the content of FPPMA. The refractive index of poly(HFPMA) (1.384 at 532 nm) is much lower than that of FPPMA homopolymer, but copolymer films obtained were clear and transparent. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Management and dissemination of MS proteomic data with PROTICdb: Example of a quantitative comparison between methods of protein extraction
Authors: Langella Olivier , Valot Benoît , Jacob Daniel , Balliau Thierry , Flores Raphaël , Hoogland Christine , Joets Johann , Zivy Michel
Published: March 2013

High throughput MS‐based proteomic experiments generate large volumes of complex data and necessitate bioinformatics tools to facilitate their handling. Needs include means to archive data, to disseminate them to the scientific communities, and to organize and annotate them to facilitate their interpretation. We present here an evolution of PROTICdb, a database software that now handles MS data, including quantification. PROTICdb has been developed to be as independent as possible from tools used to produce the data. Biological samples and proteomics data are described using ontology terms. A Taverna workflow is embedded, thus permitting to automatically retrieve information related to identified proteins by querying external databases. Stored data can be displayed graphically and a “Query Builder” allows users to make sophisticated queries without knowledge on the underlying database structure. All resources can be accessed programmatically using a Java client API or RESTful web services, allowing the integration of PROTICdb in any portal. An example of application is presented, where proteins extracted from a maize leaf sample by four different methods were compared using a label‐free shotgun method. Data are available at http://moulon.inra.fr/protic/public. PROTICdb thus provides means for data storage, enrichment, and dissemination of proteomics data.
Plastic deformation behavior of polypropylene sheet with transversal orientation
Authors: Phulkerd Panitha , Hagihara Hiroki , Nobukawa Shogo , Uchiyama Yohei , Yamaguchi Masayuki
Published: March 2013

The deformation behavior of a polypropylene (PP) sheet, in which c‐axis of β‐form PP orients perpendicular to the flow direction in the sheet [transverse direction (TD)], is studied focusing on the mechanical anisotropy. The deformation mechanism of this sample is found to be strongly dependent on the stretching direction. Shear yielding is dominant in TD stretching, indicating that reorganization and phase transformation of crystalline form occur easily with low yield stress. On the contrary, in machine direction (MD) stretching, numerous microvoids appear with the transformation of crystalline form as well as the rotation of c‐axis. Moreover, the crazing process, initiated at the orientation defects, occurs locally with remaining undeformed region in which β‐form PP orients to TD. The deformation behavior is applicable to a microporous film. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 897–906
Cancer‐related self‐efficacy following a consultation with an oncologist
Authors: Nielsen Berit Kjærside , Mehlsen Mimi , Jensen Anders Bonde , Zachariae Robert
Published: March 2013

Objective

When receiving a cancer diagnosis, patients are often faced with psychological distress and loss of control. As a result, their psychological well‐being may be influenced by their perceived ability to cope with disease‐related and treatment‐related challenges. Research indicates that the patient–oncologist relationship may have an impact on patients' self‐efficacy. The aim was to examine predictors of self‐efficacy following a consultation in an oncology outpatient clinic and the predictors of change.

Methods

A total of 226 patients (mean age: 61 years, 40% male) attending an oncology outpatient clinic completed questionnaires before and after a consultation including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, two domain‐specific self‐efficacy scales measuring coping self‐efficacy and decision self‐efficacy, the Physician–Patient Relationship Inventory, and the Information Satisfaction Questionnaire.

Results

While most patients experienced an increase in self‐efficacy following the consultation, some patients experienced lower self‐efficacy post‐consultation. In the multivariate analysis, depressive symptoms emerged as a relatively strong predictor of both coping self‐efficacy and decision self‐efficacy, whereas marital status was a significant predictor of coping self‐efficacy, and satisfaction with information significantly predicted decision self‐efficacy. No significant associations were found between self‐efficacy and the patients' ratings of the physician–patient relationship.

Conclusion

Depression seems to be a potential risk factor for lower cancer‐related self‐efficacy, following an oncologist consultation. By identifying patients who exhibit symptoms of depression, health professionals can increase their attention on empowering these patients. Furthermore, our results suggest that patients' experience of self‐efficacy depends on what particular challenges they have to overcome. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incidence and risk of mood disorders in patients with breast cancers in Taiwan: a nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Hung Yi‐Ping , Liu Chia‐Jen , Tsai Chia‐Fen , Hung Man‐Hsin , Tzeng Cheng‐Hwai , Liu Chun‐Yu , Chen Tzeng‐Ji
Published: March 2013

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the incidence and risk of mood disorders, including major depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders, in Taiwanese patients after the diagnosis of breast cancer compared with a matched cohort.

Methods

From January 2000 to December 2005, 26,629 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients were enrolled by the Taiwan National Health Insurance program database. The control cohort was selected randomly from 1,000,000 National Health Insurance beneficiaries from a population of 21,400,826 enrolled throughout Taiwan. Each patient was matched with one subject without breast cancer by age, sex, and presence of comorbidities with the same diagnosis index date. The diagnosis of mood disorders was defined by compatible International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision, clinical modification codes plus the prescription of antidepressants for at least 30 days.

Results

The overall incidence rate ratio of mood disorders was 1.33 (95% CI 1.28–1.39, p < 0.001) in the breast cancer cohort compared with the matched cohort. The incidence rate ratios for specific mood disorders were 2.06 for bipolar disorder (95% CI 1.37–3.15 p = 0.0003), 1.94 for major depressive disorder (95% CI 1.76–2.13 p < 0.001), and 1.22 for anxiety (95% CI 1.16–1.27 p < 0.001). Independent risk factors for developing mood disorders included breast cancer, as well as age, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, autoimmune disease, ischemic heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease.

Conclusions

Breast cancer is a prominent risk factor for mood disorders, including major depressive disorder, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. The impact is most potent in the first year after diagnosis. Psychological support is a critical issue in these patients. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Selection of Alkali and Alkaline Earth Metal Salts of 5,5′‐Bis(1‐hydroxytetrazole) in Pyrotechnic Compositions
Authors: Fischer Niko , Klapötke Thomas M. , Marchner Stefan , Rusan Magdalena , Scheutzow Susanne , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: March 2013

The dilithium (1), disodium (2), dipotassium (3) and dicesium (4) salt as well as the calcium (5), strontium (6) and barium (7) salt of 5,5′‐bis(1‐hydroxytetrazole) were prepared and characterized including NMR‐, IR‐ and Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The crystal structures of 1, 2 and 4–6 were additionally determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The sensitivities of the salts towards impact, friction and electrostatic discharge were determined by means of BAM (Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung‐ und prüfung) methods. The potential use of 1, 6 and 7 as coloring agents in pyrotechnical mixtures as well as the utilization of 3 and 4 as additives in near infrared (NIR) emitting pyrotechnical formulations was examined.
A threshold for the Maker‐Breaker clique game
Authors: Müller Tobias , Stojaković Miloš
Published: March 2013

We study the Maker‐Breaker k‐clique game played on the edge set of the random graph G(n, p). In this game, two players, Maker and Breaker, alternately claim unclaimed edges of G(n, p), until all the edges are claimed. Maker wins if he claims all the edges of a k‐clique; Breaker wins otherwise. We determine that the threshold for the graph property that Maker can win this game is at , for all k > 3, thus proving a conjecture from Ref. [Stojaković and Szabó, Random Struct Algor 26 (2005), 204–223]. More precisely, we conclude that there exist constants such that when the game is Maker's win a.a.s., and when it is Breaker's win a.a.s.

For the triangle game, when k = 3, we give a more precise result, describing the hitting time of Maker's win in the random graph process. We show that, with high probability, Maker can win the triangle game exactly at the time when a copy of K5 with one edge removed appears in the random graph process. As a consequence, we are able to give an expression for the limiting probability of Maker's win in the triangle game played on the edge set of G(n, p). © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 45, 318–341, 2014
Investigating the morphology and mechanical properties of blastomeres with atomic force microscopy
Authors: Li Mi , Zhang Changlin , Wang Liu , Liu Lianqing , Xi Ning , Wang Yuechao , Dong Zaili
Published: March 2013

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to directly investigate the morphology and mechanical properties of blastomeres during the embryo development. With AFM imaging, the surface topography of blastomeres from two‐cell, four‐cell, and eight‐cell stages was visualized, and the AFM images clearly revealed the blastomere's morphological changes during the different embryo developmental stages. The section measurements of the AFM topography images of the blastomeres showed that the axis of the embryos nearly kept constant during the two‐cell, four‐cell, and eight‐cell stages. With AFM indenting, the mechanical properties of living blastomeres from several embryos were measured quantitatively under physiological conditions. The results of mechanical properties measurements indicated that the Young's modulus of the two blastomeres from two‐cell embryo was different from each other, and the four blastomeres from the four‐cell embryo also had variable Young's modulus. Besides, the blastomeres from two‐cell embryos were significantly harder than blastomeres from four‐cell embryos. These results can improve our understanding of the embryo development from the view of cell mechanics. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of chemical compositions and morphology of surface films formed on 3003 aluminum alloy by immersion in different cation containing model tap waters
Authors: Sakairi M. , Otani K. , Kaneko A. , Seki Y. , Nagasawa D.
Published: March 2013

The effect of metal cations, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, and Ni2+, on oxide film structure and morphology changes during immersion corrosion tests of 3003 aluminum alloy in model tap waters was investigated by surface analysis techniques including Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy. The hardness of metal cations based on the hard and soft acids and bases (HSAB) concept was applied to explain the effect on the passive oxide film structure. Numerous nano‐sized pits were observed after 86.4 ks immersion in model tap water, and nano‐sized corrosion products were also observed especially in specimens immersed in K+ containing solutions. The AES and XPS results showed that hard metal cations like Zn2+ and Ni 2+ were included in the oxide films, while soft metal cations were not included in the oxide films. The results are in good agreement with those which could be expected from the HSAB hardness of the metal cations. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cyclodextrin Insulation Prevents Static Quenching of Conjugated Polymer Fluorescence at the Single Molecule Level
Authors: Thomsson Daniel , Camacho Rafael , Tian Yuxi , Yadav Dheerendra , Sforazzini Giuseppe , Anderson Harry L. , Scheblykin Ivan G.
Published: March 2013

Conjugated polymers (CPs) are promising materials for fluorescence imaging application. However, a significant problem in this field is the unexplained abnormally low fluorescence brightness (or number of fluorescence photons detected per one excitation photon) exhibited by most of CP single chains in solid polymer hosts. Here it is shown that this detrimental effect can be fully avoided for short chains of polyfluorene‐bis‐vinylphenylene (PFBV) embedded in a host polymer matrix of PMMA, if the conjugated backbone is insulated by cyclodextrin rings to form a polyrotaxane (PFBV‐Rtx). Fluorescence kinetics and quantum yields are measured for the polymers in liquid solutions, pristine films, and solid PMMA blends. The fluorescence brightness of PFBV‐Rtx single chains dispersed in a solid PMMA is very close to that expected for a chain with 100% fluorescence quantum yield, while the unprotected PFBV chains of the same length possess 4 times lower brightness. Despite this, the fluorescence decay kinetics are the same for both polymers, suggesting the presence of static or ultrafast fluorescence quenching in the unprotected polymer. About 80% of an unprotected PFBV chain is estimated to be completely quenched. The hypothesis is that the cyclodextrin rings prevent the quenching by working as ‘bumpers’ reducing the mechanical forces applied by the host polymer to the conjugated backbone and help retaining its conformational freedom. While providing a recipe for making CP fluorescence bright at the single‐molecule level, these results identify a lack of fundamental understanding in the community of the influence of the environment on excited states in conjugated materials.
Fluorescent Magnetic Fe3O4/Rare Earth Colloidal Nanoparticles for Dual‐Modality Imaging
Authors: Zhu Haie , Shang Yalei , Wang Wenhao , Zhou Yingjie , Li Penghui , Yan Kai , Wu Shuilin , Yeung Kelvin W. K. , Xu Zushun , Xu Haibo , Chu Paul K.
Published: March 2013

Fluorescent magnetic colloidal nanoparticles (FMCNPs) are produced by a two‐step, seed emulsifier‐free emulsion polymerization in the presence of oleic acid and sodium undecylenate‐modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs). The Fe3O4/poly(St‐co‐GMA) nanoparticles are first synthesized as the seed and Eu(AA)3Phen is copolymerized with the remaining St and GMA to form the fluorescent polymer shell in the second step. The uniform core–shell structured FMCNPs with a mean diameter of 120 nm exhibit superparamagnetism with saturation magnetization of 1.92 emu/g. Red luminescence from the FMCNPs is confirmed by the salient fluorescence emission peaks of europium ions at 594 and 619 nm as well as 2‐photon confocal scanning laser microscopy. The in vitro cytotoxicity test conducted using the MTT assay shows good cytocompatibility and the T2 relaxivity of the FMCNPs is 353.86 mM−1S−1 suggesting its potential in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In vivo MRI studies based on a rat model show significantly enhanced T2‐weighted images of the liver after administration and prussian blue staining of the liver tissue slice reveals accumulation of FMCNPs in the organ. The cytocompatibility, superparamagnetism, and excellent fluorescent properties of FMCNPs make them suitable for biological imaging probes in MRI and optical imaging.
Slags in Production of Manganese Alloys
Authors: Ostrovski Oleg , Swinbourne Douglas
Published: March 2013

The paper analyses the equilibrium partitioning of manganese and silicon between slag and alloy during the production of high carbon ferromanganese (HC FeMn) and silicomanganese (SiMn) using FACTSage software. The results of this modeling are compared with industrial and experimental data and used to elucidate the nature of the reduction processes. In production of HC FeMn, molten slag co‐exists with a monoxide phase (Ca,Mg,Mn)O in which MnO is the major constituent. Analysis of industrial data shows that slag and monoxide are close to equilibrium, but manganese slag–metal partitioning is far from equilibrium. It is evident that the rate of MnO reduction from the slag is slower than the rate of MnO dissolution into the slag. A previous laboratory study confirmed that MnO reduction from HC FeMn slag is slow and that equilibrium is not reached. In the production of SiMn, the charge consists of manganese ore, ferromanganese slag, quartzite, and fluxes. Excavation of industrial furnaces has revealed the presence of quartzite in the reaction zone, so there are four condensed phases in the reaction zone; molten slag, molten SiMn alloy, quartzite, and coke. FACTSage modeling showed that during the production of SiMn, manganese, and silicon partitioning between the metal and slag is close to equilibrium at 1600°C. The concentration of silica in SiMn slags is much lower than the silica‐saturation value. It can be concluded that the reduction of silica from these slags is faster than the dissolution of quartzite into the slag.
Effect of Salt Tracer Amount on the Mixing Time Measurement in a Hydrodynamic Model of Gas‐Stirred Ladle System
Authors: Chen Chao , Rui Qixuan , Cheng Guoguang
Published: March 2013

The hydrodynamic modeling method in gas‐stirred ladle system that widely used to measure the mixing time was reconsidered and discussed in this paper. The effect of injected salt tracer amount on the mixing time measurement was investigated. For the mixing time curve, the final concentration increased with the tracer amount increased; also this curve exhibited occasional sharp increasing tendency when a larger amount of tracer was injected. Besides, the obtained mixing time decreased with the tracer amount increased. The error of mixing time measurement was mainly from the tracer concentration fluctuation beyond the criterion range when a much smaller amount of tracer was injected. While the criterion range increased with the tracer amount increased for a certain criterion of mixing. Finally, the tracer selection should be considered combined with the criterion of the definition of mixing. In the present study, the dimensionless tracer amount (defined as the ratio of tracer amount to the water volume in hydrodynamic model) of KCl solution should be larger than 0.2692 × 10−3 or 0.6731 × 10−3 when 5 or 1% criterion was used.
Higgs couplings beyond the standard model
Authors: Cacciapaglia Giacomo , Deandrea Aldo , La Rochelle Guillaume Drieu , Flament Jean-Baptiste
Published: March 2013

Abstract

We consider the Higgs boson decay processes and its production, and provide a parameterisation tailored for testing models of new physics beyond the Standard Model. We also compare our formalism to other existing parameterisations based on scaling factors in front of the couplings and to effective Lagrangian approaches. Different formalisms allow to best address different aspects of the Higgs boson physics. The choice of a particular parameterisation depends on a non-obvious balance of quantity and quality of the available experimental data, envisaged purpose for the parameterisation and degree of model independence, importance of the radiative corrections, scale at which new particles appear explicitly in the physical spectrum. At present only simple parameterisations with a limited number of fit parameters can be performed, but this situation will improve with the forthcoming experimental LHC data. Detailed fits can only be performed by the experimental collaborations at present, as the full information on the different decay modes is not completely available in the public domain. It is therefore important that different approaches are considered and that the most detailed information is made available to allow testing the different aspects of the Higgs boson physics and the possible hints beyond the Standard Model.