bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mass transfer in electromembrane extraction—The link between theory and experiments
Authors: Huang Chuixiu , Jensen Henrik , Seip Knut Fredrik , Gjelstad Astrid , Pedersen‐Bjergaard Stig
Published: September 2015

Electromembrane extraction was introduced in 2006 as a totally new sample preparation concept for the extraction of charged analytes present in aqueous samples. Electromembrane extraction is based on electrokinetic migration of the analytes through a supported liquid membrane and into a μL‐volume of acceptor solution under the influence of an external electrical field. To date, electromembrane extraction has mostly been used for the extraction of drug substances, amino acids, and peptides from biological fluids, and for organic micropollutants from environmental samples. Electromembrane extraction has typically been combined with chromatography, mass spectrometry, and electrophoresis for analyte separation and detection. At the moment, close to 125 research papers have been published with focus on electromembrane extraction. Electromembrane extraction is a hybrid technique between electrophoresis and liquid–liquid extraction, and the fundamental principles for mass transfer have only partly been investigated. Thus, although there is great interest in electromembrane extraction, the fundamental principle for mass transfer has to be described in more detail for the scientific acceptance of the concept. This review summarizes recent efforts to describe the fundamentals of mass transfer in electromembrane extraction, and aim to give an up‐to‐date understanding of the processes involved.
Analyses of acute kidney injury biomarkers by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry
Authors: Za'abi Mohammed Al , Ali Badreldin H. , ALOthman Zeid A. , Ali Imran
Published: September 2015

The newly developed acute kidney injury biomarkers are very important for the early and timely detection of kidney diseases. This review contains details of the analyses of several acute kidney injury biomarkers using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry in urine and plasma samples. In this review we attempt to discuss some aspects of the types of the biomarkers, patents, sample preparation, and the analyses. Besides, efforts were also made to discuss the possible uses of superficially porous (core–shell) columns in traditional and inexpensive high‐performance liquid chromatography instruments. Additionally, the challenges and the future prospects are also highlighted. The present review will be useful for the academicians, scientists, and clinicians for the early detection of acute kidney injury biomarkers.
Current trends in the development of porous polymer monoliths for the separation of small molecules
Authors: Urban Jiří
Published: September 2015

Since their introduction, the main application area of porous polymer monoliths has been in the fast gradient separation of synthetic and natural polymers. On the other hand, it has proven to be difficult to prepare polymer monoliths providing column efficiency comparable with particulate and monolithic silica‐based stationary phases. During this decade, several experimental approaches were performed that aimed to improve this property of polymer monoliths. These protocols include variation in a polymerization time and preparation of monolithic stationary phases at limited conversion of the polymerization reaction, application of novel, highly ordered, nanomaterials, and/or hypercross‐linking surface modification controlling the cross‐link density of prepared monoliths. By using some of these approaches, monolithic stationary phases with column efficiency reaching 200 000 plates/m for low‐molecular‐weight compounds have been prepared. This review deals with preparation of polymer monoliths for the separation of small molecules and summarizes recent development in this field. At first, it focuses on monolithic columns morphology and repeatability of their preparation. Then, recent results in individual experimental protocols are discussed. Finally, possible future steps leading to the preparation of more efficient monolithic stationary phases are outlined.
Ossicular calisthenics: Pneumomassage of the tympanic membrane
Authors: Mudry Albert , Santa Maria Peter , Jackler Robert K.
Published: September 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Throughout the latter portion of the 19th and early 20th centuries, pneumomassage devices were widely used by otologists to treat a variety of ear diseases. The so‐called eardrum massagers produced a regular, repetitive, oscillatory movement through modifying the air pressure in the ear canal.

The goal of this study was to trace the invention, clinical use, technological diversification, abandonment, and ultimate resurrection of tympanic pneumomassage.

Method

Review of the 19th‐ and early 20th‐century medical journals, texts, and trade catalogs concerning the tympanic pneumomassage.

Results

In 1884, the Belgian otologist Charles Delstanche introduced what he called a rarefacteur, and 5 years later he introduced the masseur du tympan. This lead to a frenzied development of imaginative mechanical and electrical pneumassagers with a goal to exercise the tympanic membrane and ossicles to overcome contraction and rigidity. Tympanic pneumomassage rose to prominence in mainstream otology as a treatment for otitis media, chronic deafness, and tinnitus. After gradually fading out of the otological practice by the 1930s, pneumomassage was reintroduced in the 1980s after a half century of obscurity, this time as a novel invention notably for the treatment of Menière's disease.

Conclusion

The golden era of pneumomassage illustrates the ingenuity of otologists and medical instrument makers in creating a proliferation of clever devices, as well as how highly touted treatment methods may become widely adopted by practitioners despite the lack of efficacy. It also noteworthy that historic therapeutic methods are sometimes reintroduced for purposes not envisioned by their original makers.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 126:1180–1186, 2016
Effects of chemotherapy on gene expression of lingual taste receptors in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Tsutsumi Rie , Goda Masakazu , Fujimoto Chisa , Kanno Kyoko , Nobe Misaki , Kitamura Yoshiaki , Abe Koji , Kawai Misako , Matsumoto Hideki , Sakai Tohru , Takeda Noriaki
Published: September 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

We aimed to test the hypothesis that chemotherapy changes the gene expression of taste receptors in the tongue to induce dysgeusia in patients with head and neck cancer.

Study Design

Prospective observation study.

Methods

We enrolled 21 patients who received chemoradiotherapy and five patients who underwent radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. The messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of the taste receptor subunits T1R1, T1R2, T1R3, and T2R5 were measured in lingual mucosa scrapings obtained with a small spatula. The perception thresholds of umami, sweet, and bitter tastes were assessed by the whole mouth gustatory test.

Results

In four patients with severe stomatitis induced by chemoradiotherapy, the mRNA levels of T1R1, T1R2, T1R3, and T2R5 in the lingual mucosa were significantly decreased. However, in 17 patients with mild/moderate stomatitis, the mRNA levels of T1R3 were significantly and transiently decreased, whereas those of T1R1 and T1R2 remained unchanged and those of T2R5 mRNA were significantly and transiently increased after chemotherapy. There was a significant negative correlation between the perception thresholds of umami or sweet tastes and lingual mRNA levels of T1R3 in patients with mild/moderate stomatitis after chemotherapy. Although the perception threshold of bitter taste remained unchanged, lingual mRNA levels of T2R5 were significantly increased in patients who complained of phantogeusia after chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy specifically changed the gene expression of T1R3 and T2R5 in head and neck cancer patients with mild/moderate stomatitis, resulting in both dysgeusia of umami and sweet tastes as well as phantogeusia.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:E103–E109, 2016
Flow dynamics in pediatric rigid bronchoscopes using computer‐aided design modeling software
Authors: Barneck Mitchell D. , Webb J. Taylor , Robinson Ryan E. , Grimmer J. Fredrik
Published: September 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Observed complications during rigid bronchoscopy, including hypercarbia and hypoxemia, prompted us to assess how well rigid bronchoscopes serve as an airway device. We performed computer‐aided design flow analysis of pediatric rigid bronchoscopes to gain insight into flow dynamics.

Study Design

We made accurate three‐dimensional computer models of pediatric rigid bronchoscopes and endotracheal tubes. SOLIDWORKS (Dassault Systemes, Vélizy‐Villacoublay, France) flow analysis software was used to analyze fluid dynamics during pressure‐controlled and volume‐controlled ventilation.

Methods

Flow analysis was performed on rigid bronchoscopes and similar outer diameter endotracheal tubes comparing resistance, flow, and turbulence during two ventilation modalities and in common surgical scenarios.

Results

Increased turbulent flow was observed in bronchoscopes compared to more laminar flow in endotracheal tubes of similar outer diameter. Flow analysis displayed higher resistances in all pediatric bronchoscope sizes except one (3.0 bronchoscope) compared to similar‐sized endotracheal tubes. Loss of adequate ventilation was observed if the bronchoscope was not assembled correctly or if increased peak inspiratory pressures were needed. Anesthesia flow to the patient was reduced by 63% during telescope insertion.

Conclusions

Flow analysis illustrates increased turbulent flow and increased airflow resistance in all but one size of pediatric bronchoscopes compared to endotracheal tubes. This increased turbulence and resistance, along with the unanticipated gas distal exit pattern, may contribute to the documented hypercarbia and hypoxemia during procedures. These findings may explain why hypoxemia and hypercarbia are commonly observed during rigid bronchoscopy, especially when positive pressure ventilation is needed.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 126:1940–1945, 2016
Trauma‐induced schwannoma of the recurrent laryngeal nerve after thyroidectomy
Authors: Kennedy William P. , Brody Robert M. , LiVolsi Virginia A. , Wang Amber R. , Mirza Natasha A.
Published: September 2015

Laryngeal schwannomas are rare, benign tumors, most often arising from the superior laryngeal nerve. We describe a case of a 68‐year‐old female with a laryngeal schwannoma of the recurrent laryngeal nerve after traumatic injury. We postulate that trauma to the recurrent laryngeal nerve during thyroidectomy or thyroplasty incited growth of a nerve sheath tumor. This is the first reported case of a trauma‐induced schwannoma of the recurrent laryngeal nerve and second case of a recurrent laryngeal nerve schwannoma. Although rare, this case demonstrates that these tumors should be considered during workup of vocal cord paresis after surgery or failed thyroplasty. Laryngoscope, 126:1408–1410, 2016
Temporal Variations of Flow–sediment Relationships in a Highly Erodible Catchment of the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Gao Guangyao , Ma Ying , Fu Bojie
Published: September 2015

The flow–sediment relationship is important to understand the soil erosion and land degradation processes in severe eroded areas. This study researches on variations of streamflow, sediment load, and flow–sediment relationship on multi‐temporal scales (annual, flood season and, monthly scales) in a highly erodible catchment of Chinese Loess Plateau. The results demonstrated that the streamflow, sediment load, sediment concentration, runoff coefficient, and sediment coefficient all experienced evident reductions, and the decrease in the middle and downstream stations was more significant compared with the upstream stations. The land use changes and implementation of soil and water conservation measures played major role for the streamflow and sediment load reductions with respect to precipitation change, and the runoff coefficient and sediment coefficient linearly decreased with the percentage of conservation measure area. The runoff‐sediment yield relationship on annual, flood season, and monthly scales could be generally characterized by the linear function, and the slopes during the post‐change period was lower than those during the pre‐change period of sediment load. The sediment concentration–streamflow discharge relationship represented consistent form over the entire study period, and the logarithmic function was appropriate to describe the relationships on the three timescales. The decrease of sediment concentration contributed greatest (60·7%) to sediment reduction compared with runoff productivity of rainfall (30·2%) and precipitation (9·1%). Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Benefits of the Symbiotic Association of Shrubby Legumes for the Rehabilitation of Degraded Soils under Mediterranean Climatic Conditions
Authors: Pérez‐Fernández María A. , Calvo‐Magro E. , Valentine A.
Published: September 2015

Soil degradation limits the potential for the re‐establishment of native plants. Most land restoration practices typically concentrate on the recovery of soil physical properties and plant establishment, while neglecting the recovery of soil microbiota. Mediterranean wild leguminous shrubs are ideal candidates for use in land recovery projects, as they are drought tolerant, improve soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation and exhibit high stem net photosynthesis that increases their carbon gain. In this study, we used the legumes Cytisus balansae, Cytisus multiflorus, Cytisus striatus and Genista florida in a long‐term trial to recover a degraded soil in southwestern Spain. The main objective of this trial was to investigate to what extent the introduction of shrubby legumes inoculated with their own rhizobial symbionts can improve the properties and associated vegetation of a degraded soil. The results showed that the inoculation of legumes with nitrogen‐fixing bacteria enhanced plant performance in all four legumes. Whereas in the absence of legumes, soil fertility and plant community did not improve significantly, amelioration was observed in plots with non‐inoculated legumes, with maximum values in terms of the number of accompanying species, soil nitrogen content and organic matter recorded in soils with inoculated legumes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concentrations of sunscreens and antioxidant pigments in Arctic Calanus spp. in relation to ice cover, ultraviolet radiation, and the phytoplankton spring bloom
Authors: Hylander Samuel , Kiørboe Thomas , Snoeijs Pauline , Sommaruga Ruben , Nielsen Torkel Gissel
Published: September 2015

Arctic zooplankton ascend to shallow depths during spring to graze on the yearly occurring phytoplankton bloom. However, in surface waters they are exposed to detrimental ultraviolet radiation (UVR) levels. Here, we quantified concentrations of substances known to have UVR‐protective functions, namely mycosporine‐like amino acids (MAAs) and the carotenoid astaxanthin, from March to May in Calanus finmarchicus, Calanus glacialis and Calanus hyperboreus. Ice cover was 100% in the beginning of March, started to break up during April and was gone by the end of May. UVR‐exposure in the water column was tightly linked to the ice conditions and water UVR‐transparency was up to 6 m (depth where 1% radiation remains). Concentrations of MAAs in C. finmarchicus and C. glacialis increased sharply during ice break‐up and peaked concurrently with maximum chlorophyll a (Chl a) levels. MAA‐concentrations in C. hyperboreus increased later in accordance with its later arrival to the surface. The concentration of astaxanthin increased in all three species over time but there was no synchrony with ice conditions or the phytoplankton bloom. Even though only the upper 6 m of the water column was affected by UV‐radiation, MAAs in the copepods were tightly correlated to the UV‐threat. Hence, changes in ice cover are projected to have a large impact on the UVR‐exposure of zooplankton emphasizing the importance of the timing of zooplankton ascent from deep waters in relation to the phytoplankton bloom and the ice break‐up.
Combined use of anterolateral thigh flap and pharyngeal flap for reconstruction of extensive soft‐palate defects
Authors: Miyamoto Shimpei , Sakuraba Minoru , Nagamatsu Shogo , Fujiki Masahide , Fukunaga Yutaka , Hayashi Ryuichi
Published: September 2015

Background

Functional reconstruction of extensive soft‐palate defects is challenging for microsurgeons. The versatility of the combination of a free anterolateral thigh flap and a superiorly based pharyngeal flap for oncologic soft‐palate reconstruction was investigated.

Methods

The combination of flaps was used for immediate reconstruction after total or subtotal resection of the soft palate in five consecutive patients from 2006 to 2011.

Results

All flaps survived completely. Palatal fistula and miniplate infection each developed in one patient but healed conservatively. Follow‐up period ranged from 21 to 66 months. All patients tolerated a regular diet without significant aspiration or nasal regurgitation. Speech intelligibility was excellent in all patients, and none required a palatal prosthesis.

Conclusions

The combination of an anterolateral thigh flap and a superiorly based pharyngeal flap is a versatile option for reconstructing extensive soft‐plate defects. This method is simple and achieves reproducible results with limited donor‐site morbidity. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:291–296, 2016.
Myasthenia gravis Lambert‐Eaton overlap syndrome
Authors: Oh Shin J.
Published: September 2015

Introduction: To assess whether a myasthenia gravis (MG) Lambert‐Eaton overlap syndrome (MLOS) exists. Methods: Case reports that met the universally accepted diagnostic criteria for MG and Lambert‐Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) were sought through a PubMed search. Fifty‐five possible cases of MLOS were identified. Results: Thirty‐nine cases met the diagnostic criteria for MG and LEMS. Analysis of clinical features showed that these patients have common MG and LEMS symptoms: oculo‐bulbar paresis and good response to anti‐cholinesterase for MG and limb weakness and decreased or absent reflexes for LEMS. All had the classical LEMS pattern in the repetitive nerve stimulation test: low compound muscle action potential amplitude and incremental response > 60% with brief exercise or at high rate of stimulation. Eight patients had combined positive acetylcholine receptor antibody (AChR‐ab) or muscle‐specific kinase‐ab and voltage‐gated calcium channel‐ ab tests. Conclusions: A myasthenia gravis Lambert‐Eaton overlap syndrome (MLOS) does exist. Muscle Nerve 53: 20–26, 2016
In vivo quantification of hyperoxic arterial blood water T1
Authors: Siero Jeroen C. W. , Strother Megan K. , Faraco Carlos C. , Hoogduin Hans , Hendrikse Jeroen , Donahue Manus J.
Published: September 2015

Normocapnic hyperoxic and hypercapnic hyperoxic gas challenges are increasingly being used in cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) and calibrated functional MRI experiments. The longitudinal arterial blood water relaxation time (T1a) change with hyperoxia will influence signal quantification through mechanisms relating to elevated partial pressure of plasma‐dissolved O2 (pO2) and increased oxygen bound to hemoglobin in arteries (Ya) and veins (Yv). The dependence of T1a on Ya and Yv has been elegantly characterized ex vivo; however, the combined influence of pO2, Ya and Yv on T1a in vivo under normal ventilation has not been reported. Here, T1a is calculated during hyperoxia in vivo by a heuristic approach that evaluates T1‐dependent arterial spin labeling (ASL) signal changes to varying gas stimuli. Healthy volunteers (n = 14; age, 31.5 ± 7.2 years) were scanned using pseudo‐continuous ASL in combination with room air (RA; 21% O2/79% N2), hypercapnic normoxic (HN; 5% CO2/21% O2/74% N2) and hypercapnic hyperoxic (HH; 5% CO2/95% O2) gas administration. HH T1a was calculated by requiring that the HN and HH cerebral blood flow (CBF) change be identical. The HH protocol was then repeated in patients (n = 10; age, 61.4 ± 13.3 years) with intracranial stenosis to assess whether an HH T1a decrease prohibited ASL from being performed in subjects with known delayed blood arrival times. Arterial blood T1a decreased from 1.65 s at baseline to 1.49 ± 0.07 s during HH. In patients, CBF values in the affected flow territory for the HH condition were increased relative to baseline CBF values and were within the physiological range (RA CBF = 36.6 ± 8.2 mL/100 g/min; HH CBF = 45.2 ± 13.9 mL/100 g/min). It can be concluded that hyperoxic (95% O2) 3‐T arterial blood T1aHH = 1.49 ± 0.07 s relative to a normoxic T1a of 1.65 s. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Region‐based fault‐tolerant distributed file storage system design in networks
Authors: Sen Arunabha , Mazumder Anisha , Banerjee Sujogya , Das Arun , Zhou Chenyang , Shirazipourazad Shahrzad
Published: September 2015

Distributed storage of data files in different nodes of a network enhances its fault tolerance capability by offering protection against node and link failures. Reliability is often achieved through redundancy in one of the following two ways: (i) storage of multiple copies of the entire file at different locations (nodes) or (ii) storage of file segments (not entire files) at different node locations. In the file distribution scheme, file segments from a file are created in such a way that it is possible to reconstruct the entire file, just by accessing any segments. For the reconstruction scheme to work, it is essential that the segments of the file are stored in nodes that are connected in the network. However, in the event of node/link failures, the network might become disconnected (i.e., split into several connected components). We focus on node failures that are spatially correlated or region based. Such failures are often encountered in disaster situations or natural calamities where only the nodes in the disaster zone are affected. The first goal of this research is to design a least cost file storage scheme to ensure that no matter which region is destroyed; resulting in fragmentation of the network, a largest connected component of the residual network will have enough file segments with which to reconstruct the entire file. In case the least cost to ensure this objective is within the allocated budget, the storage design will be all region fault‐tolerant (ARFT). In case the least cost exceeds the allocated budget, design of an ARFT file storage system design is impossible. The second goal of this research is to design file storage schemes that will be maximum region fault‐tolerant within the allocated budget. The third goal of this research is to investigate the impact of the coding parameters and on storage requirements for ensuring all region or \textit{maximum region} fault‐tolerant design. We provide maximum region fault‐tolerant design. We provide approximation algorithms for the problems and evaluate their performance through simulation using two real networks and compare their results to the optimal solutions obtained using Integer Linear Program. The simulation results demonstrate that the approximation algorithms almost always produce near optimal results in a fraction of the time needed to find the optimal solution. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 66(4), 380–395 2015
A ‘nodeless’ dual superelement formulation for structural and multibody dynamics application to reduction of contact problems
Authors: Géradin Michel , Rixen Daniel J.
Published: September 2015

A ‘nodeless’ superelement formulation based on dual‐component mode synthesis is proposed, in which the superelement dynamic behavior is described in terms of modal intensities playing the role of intrinsic variables. A computational scheme is proposed to build an orthogonal set of static modes so that the system matrices can have a diagonal or nearly diagonal form, providing thus high computational efficiency for application in the context of structural dynamics as well as flexible multibody dynamics. Connection to adjacent components is expressed through kinematic relationships between intrinsic variables and local displacements. The efficiency of the method is demonstrated on a simple example involving multiple unilateral contact. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of implicit and explicit hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin methods for the acoustic wave equation
Authors: Kronbichler M. , Schoeder S. , Müller C. , Wall W. A.
Published: September 2015

We describe implicit and explicit formulations of the hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin method for the acoustic wave equation based on state‐of‐the‐art numerical software and quantify their efficiency for realistic application settings. In the explicit scheme, the trace of the acoustic pressure is computed from the solution on the two elements adjacent to the face at the old time step. Tensor product shape functions for quadrilaterals and hexahedra evaluated with sum factorization are used to ensure low operation counts. For applying the inverse mass matrix of Lagrangian shape functions with full Gaussian quadrature, a new tensorial technique is proposed. As time propagators, diagonally implicit and explicit Runge–Kutta methods are used, respectively. We find that the computing time per time step is 25 to 200 times lower for the explicit scheme, with an increasing gap in three spatial dimensions and for higher element degrees. Our experiments on realistic 3D wave propagation with variable material parameters in a photoacoustic imaging setting show an improvement of two orders of magnitude in terms of time to solution, despite stability restrictions on the time step of the explicit scheme. Operation counts and a performance model to predict performance on other computer systems accompany our results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A superconvergent nonconforming mixed finite element method for the Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Ren Jincheng , Ma Yue
Published: September 2015

The superconvergence for a nonconforming mixed finite element approximation of the Navier–Stokes equations is analyzed in this article. The velocity field is approximated by the constrained nonconforming rotated Q1 (CNRQ1) element, and the pressure is approximated by the piecewise constant functions. Under some regularity assumptions, the superconvergence estimates for both the velocity in broken H1‐norm and the pressure in L2‐norm are obtained. Some numerical examples are presented to demonstrate our theoretical results. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 32: 646–660, 2016
Smoking and reverse causation create an obesity paradox in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Stokes Andrew , Preston Samuel H.
Published: September 2015

Objective

Many studies find that excess weight is associated with better survival among individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Investigations were carried out to see whether this “obesity paradox” can be explained by biases.

Methods

The association between weight status and mortality in the US population ages 35 and above with CVD was investigated. Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988‐2010, linked to mortality records through 2011. To minimize biases resulting from illness‐induced weight loss, a reference category consisting of individuals who have always maintained normal weight was used. Age‐standardized mortality rates and Cox models were estimated, comparing overweight/obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥25.0 kg m−2) to normal weight (BMI 18.5‐24.9 kg m−2).

Results

The paradox was present among those with overweight/obesity at the time of survey (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.89; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.78‐1.01). However, when the reference category was limited to the always‐normal‐weight, the paradox disappeared (HR = 1.16; 95% CI 0.95‐1.41). When analysis was additionally confined to never‐smokers, mortality risks were significantly higher in the overweight/obesity group (HR = 1.51; 95% CI 1.07‐2.15; P = 0.021).

Conclusions

The findings provide support for the hypothesis that lower mortality among individuals with CVD and overweight/obesity is a product of biases involving reverse causation and confounding by smoking.
The efficacy of sugar labeling formats: Implications for labeling policy
Authors: Vanderlee Lana , White Christine M. , Bordes Isabelle , Hobin Erin P. , Hammond David
Published: September 2015

Objective

To examine knowledge of sugar recommendations and test the efficacy of formats for labeling total and added sugar on pre‐packaged foods.

Methods

Online surveys were conducted among 2008 Canadians aged 16‐24. Participants were asked to identify recommended limits for total and added sugar consumption. In Experiment 1, participants were randomized to one of six labeling conditions with varying information for total sugar for a high‐ or low‐sugar product and were asked to identify the relative amount of total sugar in the product. In Experiment 2, participants were randomized to one of three labels with different added sugar formats and were asked if the product contained added sugar and the relative amount of added sugar.

Results

Few young people correctly identified recommendations for total sugar (5%) or added sugar (7%). In Experiment 1, those who were shown percent daily value information were more likely to correctly identify the relative amount of total sugar (P < 0.05). In Experiment 2, those shown added sugar information were more likely to correctly identify that the product contained added sugar and the relative amount of added sugar in the product (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Improved labeling may improve consumer understanding of the amount of sugars in food products.
Preclinical models of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hwang Chang‐Il , Boj Sylvia F , Clevers Hans , Tuveson David A
Published: September 2015

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is one of the most difficult human malignancies to treat. The 5‐year survival rate of PDA patients is 7% and PDA is predicted to become the second leading cancer‐related cause of death in the USA. Despite intensive efforts, the translation of findings in preclinical studies has been ineffective, due partially to the lack of preclinical models that faithfully recapitulate features of human PDA. Here, we review current preclinical models for human PDA (eg human PDA cell lines, cell line‐based xenografts and patient‐derived tumour xenografts). In addition, we discuss potential applications of the recently developed pancreatic ductal organoids, three‐dimensional culture systems and organoid‐based xenografts as new preclinical models for PDA. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Do CHA2DS2VASc and HAS‐BLED scores influence ‘real‐world’ anticoagulation management in atrial fibrillation? 1556 patient registry from the reference cardiology centre
Authors: Lopatowska Paulina , Tomaszuk‐Kazberuk Anna , Mlodawska Elzbieta , Bachorzewska‐Gajewska Hanna , Malyszko Jolanta , Dobrzycki Slawomir , Musial Wlodzimierz J.
Published: September 2015

Introduction

Although recommendations for the antithrombotic management of atrial fibrillation (AF) are based on strong evidence, the European guidelines are not fully implemented into practice.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to analyse antithrombotic treatment in AF in Poland after the publication of the European Society of Cardiology Guidelines in 2012.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively studied 1556 patients with AF from the Reference Cardiology University Centre in Poland in 2012–2014.

Results

CHA2DS2VASc and HAS‐BLED scores were 3.5 ± 1.7 and 2.4 ± 1.1. Anti‐vitamin K agent were prescribed in 59%, with non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in 12%, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) alone in 18%. Older patients (p < 0.0001) and with paroxysmal AF were less likely to receive oral anticoagulation (OAC, p < 0.0001). The risk of stroke according to CHA2DS2VASc score was higher in patients who did not receive OAC (p < 0.0001). The use of OAC increased with increasing CHA2DS2VASc score but was less frequent in score ≥ 4. The risk of bleeding was higher in patients without OAC (p < 0.0001). The odds of non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants use were lower for older patients, patients with ischaemic heart disease, chronic heart failure, anaemia, HAS‐BLED ≥ 3 and valvular AF. ASA was given in 39% of the patients, especially in paroxysmal AF (p < 0.0001). The odds of ASA alone were higher for older patients, with ischaemic heart disease and history of myocardial infarction (p < 0.0001). The odds of use of ASA as the only treatment were 5.5 times higher for HAS‐BLED ≥ 3 (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Antithrombotic management in AF is well implemented in Polish conditions, but we show the lack of pattern concerning who is being treated with OAC and ASA when it comes to the risk of stroke and bleeding. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structure of poly(styrene‐b‐ethylene‐alt‐propylene) diblock copolymer micelles in binary solvent mixtures
Authors: Choi Soo‐Hyung , Lee Won Bo , Lodge Timothy P. , Bates Frank S.
Published: September 2015

The effect of solvent selectivity on the micelle structure formed by a poly(styrene‐b‐ethylene‐alt‐propylene) diblock copolymer (PS‐PEP, MPS = 42,000 g/mol and MPEP = 62,000 g/mol) in solutions of squalane, a highly selective solvent for the PEP block, and 1‐phenyldodecane, a neutral solvent, is investigated using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS). The results reveal that addition of 1‐phenyldodecane systematically reduces solvent selectivity, leading to decreases in the critical micelle temperature (TCMT) and the average number of chains in a micelle (Nagg), and an increase in the solvent fraction in the core. However, the core blocks have essentially unperturbed dimensions (i.e., Rc ≈ 2 × ⟨Rg⟩o, where ⟨Rg⟩o is unperturbed radius of gyration of the core block), and therefore the micelle core radius (Rc) is nearly independent of solvent selectivity, which has not been anticipated by previous theoretical descriptions. These results demonstrate that under such conditions, excluded volume effects in the corona blocks play the dominant role in determining micelle structure. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 22–31
Micro‐Scale Frost Weathering of Sand‐Sized Quartz Grains
Authors: Woronko Barbara , Pisarska‐Jamroży Małgorzata
Published: September 2015

The surface textures of almost 1300 quartz grains in the 0.8–1.0 mm and 0.5–0.8 mm size fractions were studied in order to analyse the effects of frost weathering. Some grains had undergone periglacial processes in present‐day active layers in Canada, Spitsbergen and Mongolia, whereas other grains were sampled from a former active layer in Poland. Microstructures were studied under a scanning electron microscope and the results statistically analysed in order to distinguish characteristic microstructures resulting from frost weathering. The quartz grains with these microstructures had been deposited by fluvial, aeolian and glacial processes and their characteristic microstructures are classified as primary microstructures. Microstructures that developed on primary ones as a result of frost weathering are called secondary microstructures. The most characteristic secondary frost weathering microstructures on the quartz grains are (1) small breakage blocks (<10 µm), (2) big breakage blocks (>10 µm) and (3) single small conchoidal fractures (<10 µm). These secondary microstructures developed commonly on the following primary microstructures: (1) sharp edges of big conchoidal fractures (>10 µm), (2) microsteps, (3) edge roundings and (4) crescentic gouges. These findings facilitate the reconstruction of cryogenic conditions, support the recognition of ancient active layers and indicate grains that are particularly susceptible to frost weathering. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Notch signaling dynamics in the adult healthy prostate and in prostatic tumor development
Authors: Pedrosa Ana‐Rita , Graça José L. , Carvalho Sandra , Peleteiro Maria C. , Duarte António , Trindade Alexandre
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

The Notch signaling pathway has been implicated in prostate development, maintenance and tumorigenesis by its key role in cell‐fate determination, differentiation and proliferation. Therefore, we proposed to analyze Notch family members transcription and expression, including ligands (Dll1, 3, 4 and Jagged1 and 2), receptors (Notch1–4) and effectors (Hes1, 2, 5 and Hey1, 2, L), in both normal and tumor bearing mouse prostates to better understand the dynamics of Notch signaling in prostate tumorigenesis.

METHODS

Wild type mice and transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate model (TRAMP) mice were sacrificed at 18, 24 or 30 weeks of age and the prostates collected and processed for either whole prostate or prostate cell specific populations mRNA analysis and for protein expression analysis by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

We observed that Dll1 and Dll4 are expressed in the luminal compartment of the mouse healthy prostate, whereas Jagged2 expression is restricted to the basal and stromal compartment. Additionally, Notch2 and Notch4 are normally expressed in the prostate luminal compartment while Notch2 and Notch3 are also expressed in the stromal layer of the healthy prostate. As prostate tumor development takes place, there is up‐regulation of Notch components. Particularly, the prostate tumor lesions have increased expression of Jagged1 and 2, of Notch3 and of Hey1. We have also detected the presence of activated Notch3 in prostatic tumors that co‐express Jagged1 and ultimately the Hey1 effector.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together our results point out the Notch axis Jagged1‐2/Notch3/Hey1 to be important for prostate tumor development and worthy of additional functional studies and validation in human clinical disease. Prostate 76:80–96, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Field emission graphene–oxide–silicon field effect based photodetector
Authors: Srisonphan Siwapon , Kanokbannakorn Weerawoot , Teerakawanich Nithiphat
Published: September 2015

Silicon‐based devices keep moving into smaller dimension for improving the speed, efficiency, and low‐power consumption. Novel designed semiconductor device architectures are needed to overcome the physical limitations. An integration of well‐designed nanostructure and nanomaterials can potentially establish new principles and approaches to nanoelectronic and photonic devices. We herein demonstrate a graphene/SiO2/p‐Si (GOS) heterostructure with an embedded nanoscale mesa, forming a GOS‐Mesa field‐effect photodetector. The proposed structure exhibits that multiple exciton generation (MEG) can occur in a quantum‐confined two‐dimensional electron gas (2DEG) region via impact ionization, leading to high internal quantum efficiency (ηIQE). The numerical simulation of the carrier multiplication (CM) factor in our designed structure finds a reasonable agreement with empirical data. Simulated and measured internal quantum efficiency demonstrate ∼195% and ∼135% of UV–Vis radiation, respectively. A vertically confined 2DEG plays an important role not only in enabling the electron emission process which is responsible for the flowing of electron current, but also in developing a highly localized electric field (up to ∼106 V/cm) at the SiO2/Si interface, enabling an impact ionization process under photon energy of merely ∼1.95 eV. Our findings demonstrate that carrier multiplication can be achieved in a suitably designed nanoscale structure in conjunction with nanomaterial on silicon‐based devices, providing incentive to better understand MEG within quantum wells in 2DEG systems, and being a research path to enhancing the efficiency of future solar harvesting technologies. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Geometric modeling and local controllability of a spherical mobile robot actuated by an internal pendulum
Authors: Gajbhiye Sneha , Banavar Ravi N.
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we present the modeling and local equilibrium controllability analysis of a spherical robot. The robot consists of a spherical shell that is internally actuated by a pendulum mechanism. The rolling motion of the sphere manifests itself as a nonholonomic constraint in the modeling. We derive the dynamic model of the system using Lagrangian reduction and the variational principle. We first compute the Lagrangian and identify the symmetry with respect to a group action. The system Lagrangian and the rolling constraint are invariant with respect to the group isotropy and hence permit a reduced dynamic formulation termed as the nonholonomic ‘Euler‐Poincaré’ equation with advected dynamics. Using Lie brackets and symmetric products of the potential and control vector fields, local configuration accessibility and local (fiber) equilibrium controllability are presented. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypoxia Differentially Modulates the Genomic Stability of Clinical-Grade ADSCs and BM-MSCs in Long-Term Culture
Authors: Bigot Nicolas , Mouche Audrey , Preti Milena , Loisel Séverine , Renoud Marie-Laure , Le Guével Rémy , Sensebé Luc , Tarte Karin , Pedeux Rémy
Published: September 2015

Long-term cultures under hypoxic conditions have been demonstrated to maintain the phenotype of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) and to prevent the emergence of senescence. According to several studies, hypoxia has frequently been reported to drive genomic instability in cancer cells and in MSCs by hindering the DNA damage response and DNA repair. Thus, we evaluated the occurrence of DNA damage and repair events during the ex vivo expansion of clinical-grade adipose-derived stromal cells (ADSCs) and bone marrow (BM)-derived MSCs cultured with platelet lysate under 21% (normoxia) or 1% (hypoxia) O2 conditions. Hypoxia did not impair cell survival after DNA damage, regardless of MSC origin. However, ADSCs, unlike BM-MSCs, displayed altered γH2AX signaling and increased ubiquitylated γH2AX levels under hypoxic conditions, indicating an impaired resolution of DNA damage-induced foci. Moreover, hypoxia specifically promoted BM-MSC DNA integrity, with increased Ku80, TP53BP1, BRCA1, and RAD51 expression levels and more efficient nonhomologous end joining and homologous recombination repair. We further observed that hypoxia favored mtDNA stability and maintenance of differentiation potential after genotoxic stress. We conclude that long-term cultures under 1% O2 were more suitable for BM-MSCs as suggested by improved genomic stability compared with ADSCs. Stem Cells  2015;33:3608–3620
Chronic maternal morphine alters calbindin D‐28k expression pattern in postnatal mouse brain
Authors: Mithbaokar Pratibha , Fiorito Filomena , Della Morte Rossella , Maharajan Veeramani , Costagliola Anna
Published: September 2015

The distribution pattern of calbindin (CB)‐D28k‐expressing neurons results to be altered in several brain regions of chronic morphine exposed adult mice. In this study, the influence of chronic maternal exposure to morphine on the distribution pattern of CB‐D28k‐expressing neurons in the brain of mouse offspring was investigated. Females of CD‐1 mice were daily administered with saline or morphine for 7 days before mating, during the whole gestation period, and until 21 day post‐partum. Their offspring were sacrificed on postnatal day 18, and the brains were examined by histology using cresyl violet and by immunohistochemistry using a rabbit polyclonal anti‐CB‐D28k antibody. Histology revealed no significant differences in the distribution pattern and the number of neurons between the offspring forebrain of the control group of mice and the two groups of mice treated with different doses of morphine. However, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the number of CB‐D28k‐immunoreactive neurons remarkably decreased in the cingulate cortex, in the layers II–IV of the parietal cortex and in all regions of the hippocampus, while it increased in the layers V–VI of the parietal cortex and in the subicular region of the offspring brain of morphine treated mice. Overall, our findings demonstrate that maternal exposure to morphine alters the pattern of CB‐D28k‐expressing neuron pattern in specific regions of murine developing brain, in a layer‐ and dose‐dependent way, thus suggesting that these alterations might represent a mechanism by which morphine modifies the functional aspects of developing brain. Synapse 70:15–23, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nanocatalysts Fabricated by a Dealloying Method
Authors: Asao Naoki
Published: September 2015

Two types of nanomaterials with different morphologies are described in this article: nanoporous metals and titanate nanowires. Both materials are fabricated by a dealloying method. In the former case, the catalytic properties of nanoporous gold and palladium are exemplified by many chemical transformations. The reactions proceed without any support, stabilizer, or ligands. The catalyst can be easily recovered by a simple separation process and reused many times without significant loss of catalytic activity. In the latter case, the dealloying of Ti–Al alloy is described as a new fabrication method for producing ultrafine titanate nanowires. This method does not require high‐temperature conditions, which is advantageous for the construction of fine structures. The key to this process is achieving a fine dispersion of intermetallic TiAl3 nanocrystals in the Al matrix in the mother alloy. The resulting nanowires exhibit remarkable Sr2+ ion‐exchange properties.
Dignity in dying
Authors: Kirby Roger
Published: September 2015

At present, every two weeks someone travels abroad from the UK to die, and it is estimated that around 300 terminally ill patients succeed in taking their own life in the UK every year.
Contemporary management of renal stones
Authors: Douglas‐Moore Jayne L. , Miller Marek A.
Published: September 2015

The lifetime risk of developing calculi in the urinary tract is around 10–15% and appears to be increasing. The chance of a subsequent stone after the initial episode in a 10‐year period is 50%. The authors describe how contemporary non‐invasive and minimally invasive treatments have dramatically changed stone management, making open surgery almost obsolete.
Engaging men with long‐term conditions in self‐management support
Authors: Galdas Paul , Baker Peter
Published: September 2015

Improving the treatment and management of long‐term conditions (LTCs) is a significant health issue. Self‐management support (SMS) is a whole system approach that helps patients manage the physical and emotional challenges of an LTC. However, evidence suggests men are harder to engage in SMS. In this article the authors suggest strategies to encourage more men to take an active part in managing their own health.
Low testosterone and the metabolic syndrome: a high‐risk combination
Authors: Kirby Mike
Published: September 2015

Hypogonadism and the metabolic syndrome commonly coexist, and when combined, pose a high cardiovascular risk and can have a profound effect on a man's health and wellbeing. Mike Kirby describes the features of both conditions and provides advice on management.