bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vasculogenesis and Diabetic Erectile Dysfunction: How Relevant Is Glycemic Control?
Authors: Castela Angela , Gomes Pedro , Silvestre Ricardo , Guardão Luísa , Leite Liliana , Chilro Rui , Rodrigues Ilda , Vendeira Pedro , Virag Ronald , Costa Carla
Published: May 2016

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a complication of diabetes, condition responsible for causing endothelial dysfunction (EDys) and hampering repair mechanisms. However, scarce information is available linking vasculogenesis mediated by Endothelial Progenitor Cells (EPCs) and diabetes‐associated ED. Furthermore, it remains to be elucidated if glycemic control plays a role on EPCs functions, EPCs modulators, and penile vascular health. We evaluated the effects of diabetes and insulin therapy on bone marrow (BM) and circulating EPCs, testosterone, and systemic/penile Stromal Derived Factor‐1 alpha (SDF‐1α) expression. Male Wistar rats were divided into groups: age‐matched controls, 8‐weeks streptozotocin‐induced type 1 diabetics, and insulin‐treated 8‐weeks diabetics. EPCs were identified by flow cytometry for CD34/CD133/VEGFR2/CXCR4 antigens. Systemic SDF‐1α and testosterone levels were evaluated by ELISA. Penile SDF‐1α protein expression was assessed, in experimental and human diabetic cavernosal samples, by immunohistochemical techniques. Diabetic animals presented a reduction of BM‐derived EPCs and an increase in putative circulating endothelial cells (CECs) sloughed from vessels wall. These alterations were rescued by insulin therapy. In addition, glycemic control promoted an increase in systemic testosterone and SDF‐1α levels, which were significantly decreased in animals with diabetes. SDF‐1α protein expression was reduced in experimental and human cavernosal diabetic samples, an effect prevented by insulin in treated animals. Insulin administration rescued the effects of diabetes on BM function, CECs levels, testosterone, and plasmatic/penile SDF‐1α protein expression. This emphasizes the importance of glycemic control in the prevention of diabetes‐induced systemic and penile EDys, by the amelioration of endothelial damage, and increase in protective pathways. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 82–91, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Early Treatment With Enalapril and Later Renal Injury in Programmed Obese Adult Rats
Authors: Yim Hyung Eun , Yoo Kee Hwan , Bae In Sun , Hong Young Sook
Published: May 2016

Obesity‐related kidney disease should be prevented or retarded. We aimed to investigate whether early treatment with enalapril ameliorates later renal injury induced by early postnatal overnutrition. Three or ten male pups per mother were assigned to either the Obese or Lean group during the first 21 days of life. These pups were treated with enalapril (Obese enalapril, OE; Lean enalapril, LE) or vehicle (Obese control, OC; Lean control, LC) for 15–28 days. Body weight, blood pressure (BP), and renal alterations were determined at 3 months. Enalapril decreased body weight only in the Lean group at 3 months (P < 0.05). Systemic BP levels were higher in the LE, OC, and OE groups than in the LC group at 3 months (P < 0.05). Fewer glomeruli per section area were found in the LE, OC, and OE groups than in the LC group and in the OE group than in the OC group (P < 0.05). The LE and OE groups had higher index scores of glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial fibrosis than the controls (P < 0.05). LE pups showed increased intrarenal angiotensin II receptor type (AT)2 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9 and decreased renin and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP)‐1 expression than the LC rats (P < 0.05). OE pups showed increased intrarenal AT2 and decreased AT1 and TIMP‐1 expression than the OC rats (P < 0.05). In conclusion, early treatment with enalapril can induce detrimental renal effects in later life and may not be renoprotective in programmed obese adult rats. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 447–455, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Perlecan is required for the chondrogenic differentiation of synovial mesenchymal cells through regulation of Sox9 gene expression
Authors: Sadatsuki Ryo , Kaneko Haruka , Kinoshita Mayuko , Futami Ippei , Nonaka Risa , Culley Kirsty L. , Otero Miguel , Hada Shinnosuke , Goldring Mary B. , Yamada Yoshihiko , Kaneko Kazuo , Arikawa‐Hirasawa Eri , Ishijima Muneaki
Published: May 2016

We previously reported that perlecan, a heparan‐sulfate proteoglycan (Hspg2), expressed in the synovium at the cartilage‐synovial junction, is required for osteophyte formation in knee osteoarthritis. To examine the mechanism underlying this process, we examined the role of perlecan in the proliferation and differentiation of synovial mesenchymal cells (SMCs), using a recently established mouse synovial cell culture method. Primary SMCs isolated from Hspg2−/−‐Tg (Hspg2−/−;Col2a1‐Hspg2Tg/−) mice, in which the perlecan‐knockout was rescued from perinatal lethality, lack perlecan. The chondrogenic‐, osteogenic‐, and adipogenic‐potentials were examined in the Hspg2−/−‐Tg SMCs compared to the control SMCs prepared from wild‐type Hspg2+/+‐Tg (Hspg2+/+;Col2a1‐Hspg2Tg/−) littermates. In a culture condition permitting proliferation, both control and Hspg2−/−‐Tg SMCs showed similar rates of proliferation and expression of cell surface markers. However, in micromass cultures, the cartilage matrix production and Sox9 and Col2a1 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in Hspg2−/−‐Tg SMCs, compared with control SMCs. The reduced level of Sox9 mRNA was restored by the supplementation with exogenous perlecan protein. There was no difference in osteogenic differentiation between the control and Hspg2−/−‐Tg SMCs, as measured by the levels of Runx2 and Col1a1 mRNA. The adipogenic induction and PPARγ mRNA levels were significantly reduced in Hspg2−/−‐Tg SMCs compared to control SMCs. The reduction of PPARγ mRNA levels in Hspg2−/−‐Tg SMCs was restored by supplementation of perlecan. Perlecan is required for the chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiation from SMCs via its regulation of the Sox9 and PPARγ gene expression, but not for osteogenic differentiation via Runx2. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:837–846, 2017.
Patterns of major wound complications following multidisciplinary therapy for lower extremity soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Miller Eric D. , Mo Xiaokui , Andonian Nicole T. , Haglund Karl E. , Martin Douglas D. , Liebner David A. , Chen James L. , Iwenofu Obiajulu H. , Chakravarti Arnab , Scharschmidt Thomas J. , Mayerson Joel L. , Pollock Raphael E. , Xu‐Welliver Meng
Published: May 2016

Background and Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine the pattern and timing of major wound complications (MWCs) in patients at our institution who received multimodality treatment for lower extremity soft tissue sarcoma (LE‐STS) and to evaluate the impact of MWCs on tumor control and patient outcomes.

Methods

The medical records of 102 LE‐STS patients treated with limb‐sparing surgery and radiation therapy were reviewed. MWCs were defined as secondary operations with anesthesia, seroma/hematoma aspiration, admission for IV antibiotics, or persistent deep packing.

Results

MWCs occurred in 22% of patients, with 45% of events occurring >120 days after resection. On multivariate analysis, preoperative external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) (OR 4.29, 95% CI 1.06–17.40, P = 0.042) and skin graft placement (OR 6.39, 95% CI 1.37–29.84, P = 0.018) were found to be independent predictors of MWCs. MWC occurrence did not predict for chronic toxicity and did not impact tumor control or survival.

Conclusions

A considerable proportion of MWCs occur >120 days from surgical resection with preoperative EBRT and skin graft placement independent predictors for MWCs. While an additional source of morbidity, MWC occurrence did not impact tumor control, nor did it predict for chronic toxicity. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:385–391. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Establishing a danger zone: An anatomic study of the lingual artery in base of tongue surgery
Authors: Cohen David S. , Low Garren M. I. , Melkane Antoine E. , Mutchnick Sean A. , Waxman Jonathan A. , Patel Sagar , Shkoukani Mahdi A. , Lin Ho‐Sheng
Published: May 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To contrast the changes in measurement of the hypoglossal/lingual artery neurovascular bundle (HLNVB) to constant surface landmarks in the base of tongue (BOT) during surgically simulated retraction versus resting anatomic position, and to identify a safe zone for BOT robotic surgery to avoid injury to the HLNVB.

Study Design

Human cadaver study.

Methods

Five fresh‐frozen head and neck complexes were obtained, and seven HLNVBs were dissected. A microcaliper was used to measure the distance from the HLNVB to constant surface landmarks in resting and surgically simulated positions using a Feyh‐Kastenbauer retractor.

Results

Measurements from foramen cecum to palatoglossus muscle (P < 0.042) was significantly different when comparing anatomical to surgically simulated positions. Importantly, the location of the lingual artery in reference to the surface landmarks measured was dramatically altered with tongue retraction. With retraction, the branches of the dorsal lingual artery were not encountered posterior to a horizontal line between midway circumvallate papilla (mCVP).

Conclusion

Measurements of the HLNVB to surface landmarks in the BOT differs significantly between resting and a surgically simulated tongue position. The dorsal branch of the lingual artery seems more superficial in the BOT than previously described. A safe zone may exist posterior to an imaginary horizontal line between mCVP; however, further studies are needed to confirm this.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 127:110–115, 2017
The Impact of Pasture Systems on Soil Microbial Biomass and Community‐level Physiological Profiles
Authors: Cardozo Junior Francisco Marques , Carneiro Romero Francisco Vieira , Rocha Sandra Mara Barbosa , Nunes Luis Alfredo Pinheiro Leal , dos Santos Vilma Maria , de Lima Feitoza Lidiane , de Araújo Ademir Sérgio Ferreira
Published: May 2016

The intensive use of soil for pasture establishment has promoted land degradation. However, well‐managed pasture systems may contribute to the improvement of the soil biological properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the soil microbial biomass, enzymes activity, and catabolic diversity under six different pastures: Andropogon gayanus, Brachiaria brizantha, Panicum maximum, Cynodon dactilon, agroforestry system, and native vegetation. Soil microbial biomass was estimated by the fumigation‐extraction method, while enzyme activity was determined through substrate use. The catabolic diversity was evaluated by the community‐level physiological profiling method. Microbial biomass C was higher in the soils under the agroforestry system and native vegetation, whereas microbial biomass N was higher in the soil under Brachiaria. Acid phosphatase activity and fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis were higher in agroforestry system and native vegetation, respectively. Dehydrogenase activity was higher in the soil under Brachiaria and Cynodon. Richness and diversity of community‐level physiological profiling were higher in the soils under the agroforestry system and native vegetation. The highest numbers of C sources metabolized by microorganisms were found in the agroforestry system and native vegetation. This study showed that soil microbial community from pasture systems subjected to different management showed different biomass, activity, and catabolic diversity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polyaddition of Azide‐Containing Norbornene‐Based Monomer through Strain‐Promoted 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Zhang Xiaojuan , Zhang Qian , Wu Yuzhen , Feng Chao , Xie Chao , Fan Xiaodong , Li Pengfei
Published: May 2016

The azide–alkyne “click” reaction has been well known in the past decade, however, another kind of 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition, the azide–alkene reaction is not fully explored in polymer science to date. This contribution reports, for the first time, the discovery of a polyaddition of norbornene based monomer (NC11N3) containing both strained double bond and azide moieties. The reaction product is characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), NMR, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and mass spectrometry (MS), which confirmed the mechanism that is through cycloaddition of azide to strained double bond on norbornene ring to form triazoline linkage. The reaction can proceed at room temperature as indicated by the increase of molecular weight and viscosity during storage. Monomer, dimer, trimer, tetramer, etc., and species with loss of N2 due to lability of triazoline moiety are identified in the mixture of reaction product. As a unique feature, elimination of N2 in the five‐membered ring of triazoline affords a chance to form highly reactive materials, such as with aziridine, which can be a very powerful tool in chemical functionalizations, and find promising applications in reactive polymer resin industries.

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The Art of Compiling Protein Binding Site Ensembles
Authors: Bietz Stefan , Fährrolfes Rainer , Rarey Matthias
Published: May 2016

Structure‐based drug design starts with the collection, preparation, and initial analysis of protein structures. With more than 115,000 structures publically available in the Protein Data Bank (PDB), fully automated processes reliably performing these important preprocessing steps are needed. Several tools are available for these tasks, however, most of them do not address the special needs of scientists interested in protein‐ligand interactions. In this paper, we summarize our research activities towards an automated processing pipeline from raw PDB data towards ready‐to‐use protein binding site ensembles. Starting from a single protein structure, the pipeline covers the following phases: Extracting structurally related binding sites from the PDB, aligning disconnected binding site sequences, resolving tautomeric forms and protonation, orienting hydrogens and flippable side‐chains, structurally aligning the multitude of binding sites, and performing a reasonable reduction of ensemble structures. The pipeline, named SIENA, creates protein‐structural ensembles for the analysis of protein flexibility, molecular design efforts like docking or de novo design within seconds. For the first time, we are able to process the whole PDB in order to create a large collection of protein binding site ensembles. SIENA is available as part of the ZBH ProteinsPlus webserver under http://proteinsplus.zbh.uni‐hamburg.de.
Establishing high‐quality reference values for nerve conduction studies: A report from the normative data task force of the American Association Of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine
Authors: Dillingham Timothy , Chen Shan , Andary Michael , Buschbacher Ralph , Del Toro David , Smith Benn , Zimmermann Kuno , SO Yuen
Published: May 2016

Introduction: There are not uniform standards for nerve conduction testing across the United States. The objective of this study is to present a set of methodologically sound criteria to evaluate the literature for the purpose of identifying high‐quality normative nerve conduction studies (NCS) suitable for widespread use. Methods: The Normative Data Task Force (NDTF) was formed to review published studies on methodological issues related to NCS. A set of criteria was then developed to evaluate the literature. These criteria and their rationale are described. Results: We identified 7 key issues that reflect high quality in NCS. For each issue, specific review criteria were developed. Conclusion: Rigorous criteria enable identification of high‐quality studies dealing with nerve conduction reference values. This represents the first step toward the overarching goal of recommending NCS techniques and reference values for electrodiagnostic medicine. Muscle Nerve 54: 366–370, 2016
Natur häufig Vorbild
Authors: Meinel Lorenz , Seufert Florian , Glaser Jan , Hiltensperger Georg , Holzgrabe Ulrike
Published: May 2016

Bakterien, Viren und Parasiten lösen Krankheiten aus, die sich mit gängigen Medikamenten oft nicht zufriedenstellend behandeln lassen. Forscher suchen deshalb nach neuen Strukturmotiven für Arzneien.
Verbessert Photokatalyse die Luftqualität?
Authors: George Christian , Herrmann Hartmut , Kleffmann Jörg
Published: May 2016

Ein europäisches Forschungsprojekt hat untersucht, ob photokatalytische Beschichtungen an Straßen Schadstoffe wie Stickoxide und Kohlenwasserstoffe merklich abbauen und so die Luft reinigen. Messorte waren nicht nur das Labor, sondern auch ein Fahrzeugtunnel und eine Modellstraßenschlucht. Die Photokatalyse funktioniert zwar grundsätzlich, kann aber alleine nicht verhindern, dass die Schadstoffkonzentrationen in der Luft die Grenzwerte überschreiten.
Alge statt Ei?
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: May 2016

Die Herstellung von Grippe‐Impfstoffen in Hühnereiern ist zeitaufwendig und umständlich. Auch bei anderen immunologisch relevanten Präparaten ist die Herstellungsmethode der entscheidende Engpass. Für HIV und Hepatitis wurde jetzt die Herstellung mit Algen im Bioreaktor erfolgreich getestet.
Spuren mit Graphitrohr‐AAS bestimmen
Authors: Hupach Sascha
Published: May 2016

Die Atomabsorptionsspektroskopie ist eine besonders selektive Methode, um Schwermetalle zu bestimmen. Für den Nachweis im ppm‐Bereich eignet sich die Flammentechnik und zur Spurenanalytik im ppb‐Bereich die Graphitrohrtechnik. Letztere arbeitet mit Inertgas. Eine Gasfluss‐Steuerung beeinflusst die Empfindlichkeit dieser Technik.
Von Silicium zum Perowskit:
Authors: Feldmann Claus , Burgés Dérghon Maia
Published: May 2016

Die Wirkungsgrade von Perowskitsolarzellen liegen derzeit bei 20 Prozent und ähneln damit denen von Siliciumsolarzellen, die zwischen 18 und 26 Prozent erreichen. Ihre Basis sind Verbindungen wie Methylammoniumbleitriiodid, das als Siliciumersatz zwar Vorteile hat, aber Blei enthält und weniger stabil ist.
„Eine Promotion lohnt sich“
Authors: Klüfers Peter
Published: May 2016

Die Promotion schafft Selbstvertrauen für die nächsten Schritte im Beruf, findet Peter Klüfers.
Chemie und Wasser: Das White Paper ist da
Authors: Weinig Hans‐Georg
Published: May 2016

Für das von der GDCh 2015 in Leipzig organisierte, sechste Chemical Sciences and Society Symposium (CS3) wurde das Thema Chemistry and Water gewählt und in enger Kooperation mit der Wasserchemischen Gesellschaft – Fachgruppe in der GDCh inhaltlich gestaltet.
On efficient data storage service for IoT
Authors: Karolewicz Konrad , Beben Andrzej , Batalla Jordi Mongay , Mastorakis George , Mavromoustakis Constandinos X.
Published: May 2016

The increasing popularity of Internet of Things (IoT) services causes tremendous growth of the amount of produced data. These data must be effectively stored and retrieved by the IoT service providers. The solution is to access the data through application programming interfaces. The paper focuses on the problem of designing an effective data storage service for IoT, which will be available through the universal application programming interface. We propose and analyze eight variants of the distributed data storage service that differ in the database structure, that is, the hierarchical structure based on Data‐Oriented Network Architecture or the flat structure based on distributed hash table, the type of stored records, and the memory management algorithm that decides about using cache or base memory. The proposed solutions have been evaluated in the comprehensive simulation studies. The obtained results confirmed the effectiveness of the preferred solution with Dynamic Routing Records stored in the cache memory. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sarcolipin and uncoupling protein 1 play distinct roles in diet‐induced thermogenesis and do not compensate for one another
Authors: Rowland Leslie A. , Maurya Santosh K. , Bal Naresh C. , Kozak Leslie , Periasamy Muthu
Published: May 2016

Objective

It is well known that uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in brown adipose tissue plays an important role in diet‐induced thermogenesis. In this study, whether sarcolipin (SLN), a regulator of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase pump in muscle, is also an important player of diet‐induced thermogenesis was investigated, as well as whether loss of SLN could be compensated by increased UCP1 expression and vice versa.

Methods

Age‐ and sex‐matched UCP1−/−, SLN−/−, and double knockout for both UCP1 and SLN mice maintained in C57Bl/6J background were challenged to high‐fat diet for 12 weeks and then analyzed for weight gain, alterations in serum metabolites, and changes in thermogenic protein expression.

Results

Loss of either SLN or UCP1 alone was sufficient to cause diet‐induced obesity. No compensatory upregulation of UCP1 in SLN−/− mice or vice versa was found. Paradoxically, loss of both mechanisms failed to exacerbate the obesity phenotype.

Conclusions

Data suggest that both SLN‐ and UCP1‐based adaptive thermogenic mechanisms were essential for achieving maximal diet‐induced thermogenesis. When both mechanisms were absent, less efficient thermogenic mechanisms were activated to counter energy imbalance.
Initial Testing (Stage 1) of MK‐8242—A Novel MDM2 Inhibitor—by the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program
Authors: Kang Min H. , Reynolds C. Patrick , Kolb E. Anders , Gorlick Richard , Carol Hernan , Lock Richard , Keir Stephen T. , Maris John M. , Wu Jianwrong , Lyalin Dmitry , Kurmasheva Raushan T. , Houghton Peter J. , Smith Malcolm A.
Published: May 2016

Background

MK‐8242 is an inhibitor of MDM2 that stabilizes the tumor suppressor TP53 and induces growth arrest or apoptosis downstream of TP53 induction.

Procedures

MK‐8242 was tested against the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program (PPTP) in vitro cell line panel at concentrations from 1.0 nM to 10.0 μM and against the PPTP in vivo xenograft panels using oral gavage on Days 1–5 and Day 15–19 at a dose of 125 mg/kg (solid tumors) or 75 mg/kg (acute lymphoblastic leukemia [ALL] models).

Results

The median IC50 for MK‐8242 was 0.07 μM for TP53 wild‐type cell lines versus >10 μM for TP53 mutant cell lines. MK‐8242 induced a twofold or greater delay in time to event in 10 of 17 (59%) of TP53 wild‐type solid tumor xenografts, excluding osteosarcoma xenografts that have very low TP53 expression. Objective responses were observed in seven solid tumor xenografts representing multiple histotypes. For the systemic‐disease ALL panel, among eight xenografts there were two complete responses (CRs) and six partial responses (PRs). Two additional MLL‐rearranged xenografts (MV4;11 and RS4;11) grown subcutaneously showed maintained CR and PR, respectively. The expected pharmacodynamic responses to TP53 activation were observed in TP53 wild‐type models treated with MK‐8242. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed that MK‐8242 drug exposure in SCID mice appears to exceed that was observed in adult phase 1 trials.

Conclusions

MK‐8242‐induced tumor regressions across multiple solid tumor histotypes and induced CRs or PRs for most ALL xenografts. This activity was observed at MK‐8242 drug exposures that appear to exceed those observed in human phase 1 trials.
Synthesis and property evaluation of a novel polyacrylamide‐montmorillonite composite for water shutoff and profile control in high salinity reservoirs
Authors: Zhao Tian‐Hong , Xing Ji‐Yue , Pu Wan‐Fen , Dong Zhi‐Ming , Yuan Cheng‐Dong , Peng Guo‐Feng , Jin Fa‐Yang , Xia Ji‐Jia
Published: May 2016

Polyacrylamide‐montmorillonite organic‐inorganic composites (poly[AM/O‐MMT]) were synthesized by copolymerization of acrylamide (AM) on organic modified montmorillonite (O‐MMT) using N,N‐methylene‐bis‐acrylamide (MBA) as a crosslinker and ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator in an aqueous solution. The montmorillonite (MMT) was modified by methacryloyloxy ethyl dimethyl hexadecyl ammonium bromide (DMB) which was synthesized by 2‐(dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate with 1‐bromohexadecane. The FTIR and XRD were used to verify the organification of MMT with DMB. The effects of the amount of the DMB and O‐MMT on water absorption were studied. The swelling behavior in different saline solution and re‐swelling ability in distilled water were investigated. The results showed that DMB and O‐MMT content have an important effect on the water absorption of the composites. The addition of the DMB enhanced the salt resistance and delayed the swelling speed of the poly(AM/O‐MMT). Simultaneously, the toughness was measured. The water blocking and profile control ability were evaluated by core physical simulation experiments. The results indicated that the poly(AM/O‐MMT) has good plugging ability and profile control ability. The properties tested indicated that the poly(AM/O‐MMT) has a promising prospect to be applied as a profile control or water shut‐off agent for enhanced oil recovery in high salinity reservoirs. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:368–376, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Aging characteristics of glass fiber‐reinforced polyamide in hot water and air
Authors: Geretschläger Klaus J. , Wallner Gernot M.
Published: May 2016

This article focuses on the accelerated aging behavior of a glass fiber‐reinforced and heat stabilized polyamide grade. Accelerated aging of injection molded specimens was achieved by hot air exposure (HAE) and pressure cooker testing (PCT) at elevated temperatures. For both aging routines, characteristic aging indicators were found. For hot air exposure, the carbonyl index obtained from infrared spectra revealed superficial thermo oxidation. For pressure cooker testing, the development of a regular crack pattern and successive surface roughening were observed by light microscopy and laser confocal microscopy. This was accompanied by a significant reduction in molar mass assessed by viscometry. In addition, progressing degradation of mechanical performance was ascertained by tensile testing experiments. At the onset of material cracking, the molar mass was about 25% of the initial value. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:997–1005, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
CLASSROOM CONTEXTS AS THE FRAMEWORK FOR ASSESSING SOCIAL–EMOTIONAL ADJUSTMENT: A NATIONAL STUDY IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
Authors: Mcdermott Paul A. , Watkins Marley W. , Drogalis Anna Rhoad , Chao Jessica L. , Worrell Frank C. , Hall Tracey E.
Published: May 2016

Contextually based assessments reveal the circumstances accompanying maladjustment (the when, where, and with whom) and supply clues to the motivations underpinning problem behaviors. The Adjustment Scales for Children and Adolescents (ASCA) is a teacher rating scale composed of indicators describing behavior in 24 classroom situational contexts. This study examines the Trinidad and Tobago national normative process for the ASCA contextual dimensions with a representative sample of elementary school children (N = 900). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses yielded the same three dimensions (peer context problems, teacher context problems, and learning context problems) observed in U.S. national samples. Dimensions were scaled using item response theory (IRT) and Bayesian scoring methods, with peer and learning context problems scores relating more strongly to clinical behavior disturbances and learning context problems showing stronger association with classroom learning styles. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF FACILITATORS AND BARRIERS RELATED TO COMPREHENSIVE AND INTEGRATED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
Authors: Castillo Jose M. , Wolgemuth Jennifer R. , Barclay Chris , Mattison Amira , Tan Sim Yin , Sabnis Sujay , Brundage Amber , Marshall Leslie
Published: May 2016

Recent studies indicate that the majority of school psychologists’ time continues to be dedicated to SPED related activities. Despite ongoing calls for school psychologists to expand their roles, why many practitioners do not deliver more comprehensive services is not well understood. This qualitative study investigated facilitators of and barriers to comprehensive and integrated services using the National Association of School Psychologists Model for Comprehensive and Integrated School Psychological Services as the guiding framework. Thirteen full‐time, school‐based practitioners from across the US participated in semi‐structured interviews. Constant‐comparative analysis was used to generate themes. Results indicated that practitioners experienced a number of systemic barriers to (e.g., heavy caseload; inconsistent district policies, priorities, and role definitions; lack of stakeholder involvement) and facilitators of (e.g., resources, graduate training and professional development) comprehensive and integrated service delivery. Participants’ perspectives regarding changes needed to expand their services focused on systemic issues as well. Implications for research and practitioners’ efforts to advocate for systems change are discussed.
Post‐polymerization modification of branched polyglycidol with N‐Hydroxy phthalimide to give ratio‐controlled amino‐oxy functionalized species
Authors: Beezer Dain B. , Harth Eva
Published: May 2016

Ratio‐controlled amino‐oxy functionalized, branched polyglycidols are prepared by a post‐polymerizaton modification using and optimizing the Mitsunobu reaction for this purpose. The hydroxyl side‐groups are functionalized with N‐hydroxy phthalimide and the hydrazinolysis of this group furnishes a new class of branched polyglycidols with pendant amino‐oxy groups. Reproducible functionalization degrees of 17, 33, 43, and 63% of the hydroxyl groups are obtained via the presented developed methodology. MTT assays demonstrate the biocompatibility of amino‐oxy functionalized materials. With this, the prepared structural motifs are valuable precursors for the synthesis of biomaterials, bioconjugates and hydrogels in which orthogonal strategies are desired. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2820–2825
Cancer negatively impacts on sexual function in adolescents and young adults: The AYA HOPE study
Authors: Wettergren Lena , Kent Erin E. , Mitchell Sandra A. , Zebrack Brad , Lynch Charles F. , Rubenstein Mara B. , Keegan Theresa H. M. , Wu Xiao‐Cheng , Parsons Helen M. , Smith Ashley Wilder ,   the AYA HOPE Study Collaborative Group
Published: May 2016

Objective

This cohort study examined the impact of cancer on sexual function and intimate relationships in adolescents and young adults (AYAs). We also explored factors predicting an increased likelihood that cancer had negatively affected these outcomes.

Methods

Participants (n = 465, ages 15–39) in the Adolescent and Young Adult Health Outcomes and Patient Experience (AYA HOPE) study completed two surveys approximately 1 and 2 years post‐cancer diagnosis. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine factors negatively affected by perceptions of sexual function at 2 years post‐diagnosis.

Results

Forty‐nine percent of AYAs reported negative effects on sexual function at 1 year post‐cancer diagnosis and 70% of those persisted in their negative perceptions 2 years after diagnosis. Those reporting a negative impact at 2 years were more likely to be 25 years or older (OR, 2.53; 95% CI, 1.44–4.42), currently not raising children (OR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.06–3.08), experiencing fatigue (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.975–0.998) and more likely to report that their diagnosis has had a negative effect on physical appearance (OR, 3.08; 95% CI, 1.97–4.81). Clinical factors and mental health were not significant predictors of negative effects on sexual function.

Conclusions

Many AYAs diagnosed with cancer experience a persistent negative impact on sexual life up to 2 years following diagnosis. The findings underscore the need to develop routine protocols to assess sexual function in AYAs with cancer and to provide comprehensive management in the clinical setting. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impacts of in‐canyon vegetation and canyon aspect ratio on the thermal environment of street canyons: numerical investigation using a coupled WRF‐VUCM model
Authors: Lee Sang‐Hyun , Lee Hyunho , Park Seung‐Bu , Woo Ju‐Wan , Lee Doo‐Il , Baik Jong‐Jin
Published: May 2016

The thermal environment of an urban street canyon in summer becomes a great concern for human health under rapid urbanization. For accurate prediction of the in‐canyon thermal environment, a realistic representation is required of microscale physical processes within the canyon as well as multi‐scale atmospheric interaction between the canopy air and the overlying urban boundary layer. To accomplish this, the Vegetated Urban Canopy Model (VUCM), which interactively parametrizes in‐canyon radiative/dynamic/thermodynamic/hydrological processes based on a combined framework of the two‐dimensional single canyon and the single tree canopy, is implemented into the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. Using the coupled WRF‐VUCM model, a series of simulations is performed for a hot summer day with a finest grid resolution of 0.333 km to investigate the impacts of in‐canyon vegetation (permeable grass/soil surfaces and trees, with the vegatation fraction fv ranging from 0 to 0.4 which corresponds to 0 to 15% in urban patch area) and canyon aspect ratio (h/w; ranging from 0.5 to 2) on the thermal environment of urban street canyons over the Seoul metropolitan area. The model simulation compares well with the measured 2 m temperatures (above zero‐plane displacement height) and canopy air temperatures at 13 urban sites in Seoul, with root mean square errors of 1.0 and 0.96 °C, respectively. The increase of the in‐canyon vegetation from 0 to 15% (at h/w = 1) leads to a reduction of the canopy air temperature throughout the diurnal cycle, exhibiting relatively larger cooling effect during daytime (∼1.1 °C on average) than at night (∼0.8 °C on average) under a limited condition for evapotranspiration by the in‐canyon vegetation. Provided that the soil moisture is enough for the hydrological effect, the cooling effects significantly increase by a factor of ∼2.5 in both daytime and night‐time. The increase of h/w from 0.5 to 2 (at fv = 0.2) reduces the daytime canopy air temperature (∼1.3 °C on average) but increases the nocturnal canopy air temperature (∼0.3 °C on average). It is also found that the existence of in‐canyon vegetation at h/w > 1 has a synergic cooling benefit to the thermal environment of street canyons compared to the effects of no vegetation. These results demonstrate the importance of interactive parametrization of the physical processes and the interplay of in‐canyon vegetation and building density (via canyon aspect ratio) effects on accurate prediction of the thermal environment of urban street canyons.
The assessment of metacognition in children aged 4–16 years: a systematic review
Authors: Gascoine Louise , Higgins Steve , Wall Kate
Published: May 2016

This article presents the results of a systematic review of methods that have been used to measure or assess metacognition in children aged 4–16 years over a 20‐year period (1992–2012). It includes an overview of the types of tool and methods used linked with the ages of the participants targeted and how metacognition and associated concepts are defined. Two thousand, seven hundred and twenty‐one records were identified through systematic searching; 525 articles or reports were full text screened, resulting in 149 included studies reporting 84 distinct tools or methods. Of these 84 distinct tools or methods, four were excluded from further analysis after appraisal for reliability, validity and replicability. The final number of methods and tools for metacognitive assessment included in the analysis is 80. The key findings of this review include:

Self‐report measures (including questionnaires, surveys and tests) comprise 61% of the included tools;

Observational methods that do not rely on prompting to ‘think aloud’ (Think Aloud Protocols) have only been used with students aged 9 years and under;

Information about reliability and validity is not always given or given accurately for different tools and methods;

The definition of metacognition in a particular study relates directly to its assessment and therefore its outcomes: this can be misaligned.
Context and Implications Document for: The assessment of metacognition in children aged 4–16 years: a systematic review
Authors: Gascoine Louise , Higgins Steve , Wall Kate
Published: May 2016

This guide accompanies the following article: Gascoine, L., Higgins, S. & Wall, K. The assessment of metacognition in children aged 4–16 years: a systematic review, Review of Education, DOI:10.1002/rev3.3077
Prediction model of time diversity using Japan rain radar data
Authors: Chodkaveekityada Peeramed , Fukuchi Hajime
Published: May 2016

The effects of rain attenuation on communication systems will become more pronounced in future satellite communication systems, especially with the planned use of the 21‐GHz band or higher‐frequency bands. Diversity techniques provide a solution to mitigate rain attenuation effects. This study proposes a time diversity technique, one such technique that is likely to demonstrate high effectiveness. To model the system, rainfall rate statistics are necessary, and reliability is improved as the amount of statistical data increases. This paper derives the cumulative distribution of the rainfall rate across Japan over 4 years using rain radar data from the automated meteorological data acquisition system and ground‐based rain radar network and evaluates the rainfall rate at 23 observation points across Japan. We carry out a performance evaluation for all locations within Japan to confirm the efficiency of the time diversity method. Finally, we propose prediction model of the time diversity gain for Japan and other significant parameter which is time correlation of rainfall rate that was found from the time diversity results for further investigation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐varying coefficients models for recurrent event data when different varying coefficients admit different degrees of smoothness: application to heart disease modeling
Authors: Eshaghi Ehsan , Baghishani Hossein , Shahsavani Davood
Published: May 2016

We consider a class of semiparametric marginal rate models for analyzing recurrent event data. In these models, both time‐varying and time‐free effects are present, and the estimation of time‐varying effects may result in non‐smooth regression functions. A typical approach for avoiding this problem and producing smooth functions is based on kernel methods. The traditional kernel‐based approach, however, assumes a common degree of smoothness for all time‐varying regression functions, which may result in suboptimal estimators if the functions have different levels of smoothness. In this paper, we extend the traditional approach by introducing different bandwidths for different regression functions. First, we establish the asymptotic properties of the suggested estimators. Next, we demonstrate the superiority of our proposed method using two finite‐sample simulation studies. Finally, we illustrate our methodology by analyzing a real‐world heart disease dataset. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian adjustment for the misclassification in both dependent and independent variables with application to a breast cancer study
Authors: Liu Juxin , Gustafson Paul , Huo Dezheng
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we propose a Bayesian method to address misclassification errors in both independent and dependent variables. Our work is motivated by a study of women who have experienced new breast cancers on two separate occasions. We call both cancers primary, because the second is usually not considered as the result of a metastasis spreading from the first. Hormone receptors (HRs) are important in breast cancer biology, and it is well recognized that the measurement of HR status is subject to errors. This discordance in HR status for two primary breast cancers is of concern and might be an important reason for treatment failure. To sort out the information on true concordance rate from the observed concordance rate, we consider a logistic regression model for the association between the HR status of the two cancers and introduce the misclassification parameters (i.e., sensitivity and specificity) accounting for the misclassification in HR status. The prior distribution for sensitivity and specificity is based on how HR status is actually assessed in laboratory procedures. To account for the nonlinear effect of one error‐free covariate, we introduce the B‐spline terms in the logistic regression model. Our findings indicate that the true concordance rate of HR status between two primary cancers is greater than the observed value. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Superporous Poly(ethylene glycol) Diacrylate Cryogel with a Defined Elastic Modulus for Prostate Cancer Cell Research
Authors: Göppert Bettina , Sollich Thomas , Abaffy Paul , Cecilia Angelica , Heckmann Jan , Neeb Antje , Bäcker Anne , Baumbach Tilo , Gruhl Friederike J. , Cato Andrew C. B.
Published: May 2016

The physical and mechanical properties of the tumor microenvironment are crucial for the growth, differentiation and migration of cancer cells. However, such microenvironment is not found in the geometric constraints of 2D cell culture systems used in many cancer studies. Prostate cancer research, in particular, suffers from the lack of suitable in vitro models. Here a 3D superporous scaffold is described with thick pore walls in a mechanically stable and robust architecture to support prostate tumor growth. This scaffold is generated from the cryogelation of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate to produce a defined elastic modulus for prostate tumor growth. Lymph node carcinoma of the prostate (LNCaP) cells show a linear growth over 21 d as multicellular tumor spheroids in such a scaffold with points of attachments to the walls of the scaffold. These LNCaP cells respond to the growth promoting effects of androgens and demonstrate a characteristic cytoplasmic‐nuclear translocation of the androgen receptor and androgen‐dependent gene expression. Compared to 2D cell culture, the expression or androgen response of prostate cancer specific genes is greatly enhanced in the LNCaP cells in this system. This scaffold is therefore a powerful tool for prostate cancer studies with unique advantages over 2D cell culture systems.
Utilization of System Dynamics in Southern Africa: A Systematic Review
Authors: Brent Alan C. , Musango Josephine K. , Smit Suzanne , Pillay Nalini S. , Botha Andries , Louw Rudolph , Roper Stephen , Simelani Thokozani , Clifford‐Holmes Jai K. , Pretorius Leon
Published: May 2016

Research efforts using system dynamics to understand and evaluate societal and policy‐related problems in Southern Africa are becoming essential. This paper undertook a systematic review to examine the extent of utilization of system dynamics in Southern Africa between 2003 and 2014. The results showed that system dynamics has been used, or referred to, in the academic literature pertaining to the themes of environment, public policy and resources. Nevertheless, focuses remain limited in its application across various industries, particularly relating to stakeholder engagement and strategy. However, some analysis of the non‐academic literature suggests that commercial practice of system dynamics has a different trend, where it is mainly used for strategic and tactical projects, mostly for industry clients. Thus, the current research outputs do not necessarily reflect the industry needs. This review is then useful to facilitate further discussions on practical applications of system dynamics through the South Africa System Dynamics Chapter. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Calcium channel blockade attenuates abnormal synaptic transmission in the dentate gyrus elicited by entorhinal amyloidopathy
Authors: Gholami Pourbadie Hamid , Naderi Nima , Janahmadi Mahyar , Mehranfard Nasrin , Motamedi Fereshteh
Published: May 2016

Entorhinal‐hippocampal network is one of the earliest circuits which is affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD). There are numerous data providing the evidence of synaptic deficit in the dentate gyrus (DG) of AD animal model. However, there is little known about how entorhinal cortex (EC) amyloidophaty affects each excitatory and/or inhibitory transmission in the early stage of AD. On the other hand, it is believed that calcium dyshomeostasis has a critical role in the etiology of AD. Here, the effect of the EC amyloid pathogenesis on excitatory or inhibitory post synaptic currents (EPSC and IPSC, respectively) in the DG granule cells and then the possible neuroprotective action of L‐type calcium channel blockers (CCBs), nimodipine and isradipine, were examined. The amyloid beta (Aβ) 1–42 was injected bilaterally into the EC of male rats and one week later, synaptic currents in the DG granule cells were assessed by whole cell patch clamp. EPSCs were evoked by stimulating the perforant pathway. Voltage clamp recording showed profound decrease of evoked EPSC amplitude and paired pulse facilitation in the DG granule cells of Aβ treated rats. Furthermore, AMPA/NMDA ratio was significantly decreased in the Aβ treated animals. On the other hand, amplitude of IPSC currents was significantly increased in the DG granule cells of these animals. These modifications of synaptic currents were partially reversed by daily intracerebroventricular administration of isradipine or nimodipine. In conclusion, our results suggest that Aβ in the EC triggers decreased excitatory transmission in the DG with substantial decrement in AMPA currents, leading to a prominent activity of inhibitory circuits and increased inhibition of granule cells which may contribute to the development of AD‐related neurological deficits in AD and treatment by CCBs could preserve normal synaptic transmission against Aβ toxicity.
Teaching and Learning in the Global Village: Connect, Create, Collaborate, and Communicate
Authors: Dwyer Bernadette
Published: May 2016

The world is increasingly interconnected through technology. In order to live and work in a global village our students need to develop global literacy. Global literacy incorporates a range of overlapping concepts including an advocacy dimension, global citizenship responsibility, and cultural and linguistic awareness. Further, global literacy encompasses a multiplicity of literacies and is grounded in social, cultural, political, and historical practices and events. The article discusses how educators can harness the power of technology to engage their students in authentic literacy events and practices designed to promote the knowledge, skills, and dispositions that students require to develop global literacy in the 21st century. Initiatives and projects designed to create global literacy are described in areas such as connecting communities of readers and writers; creating cultural understanding through literature and folklore; communicating across time and space; and collaborating with learning partners across the globe.
Statistical learning and the critical period: how a continuous learning mechanism can give rise to discontinuous learning
Authors: Thiessen Erik D. , Girard Sandrine , Erickson Lucy C.
Published: May 2016

Infants and children are generally more successful than adults in learning novel languages, a phenomenon referred to as acriticalorsensitiveperiod for language acquisition. One explanation for this critical period is the idea that children have access to a set of language learning processes or mechanisms unavailable to adults. From this perspective, developmental change is explained in terms of a discontinuity of learning processes. We suggest that this is not the only possible explanation for developmental change in language learning outcomes. Instead, we propose that the mechanisms underlying language acquisition (in particular, we highlight statistical learning) are largely continuous across the lifespan. From this perspective, developmental change is explained in terms of experience, differences in the input with age, and maturational changes in the cognitive architecture supporting learning, even while the learning process itself operates continuously across developmental time.WIREs Cogn Sci2016, 7:276–288. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1394

This article is categorized under:

Linguistics > Language Acquisition

Psychology > Language