bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intervening with Couples Experiencing Domestic Violence: Development of a Systemic Framework
Authors: Mayer Angela G. Krieg
Published: June 2017

Current gendered interventions for couples experiencing intimate partner violence often do not address the complex systemic issues, nor allow for couple therapy. Experience of working in men's behaviour change group programs (or batterer programs) and with heterosexual couples, indicates this is not enough. Change options for men perpetrating domestic violence and support for partners are generally provided by individual services or gendered groups, located in separate agencies. This article initially poses some of the inadequacies of this gendered, ‘one size fits all’ ideology, which may compromise safety when couples stay together or there is shared parenting. It then explores further questions and possibilities raised by utilising a systemic lens in working with partners and families. It is possible to work systemically with a couple without compromising safety and accountability, where there is flexibility at intake, a both/and approach, ongoing assessment of risk, collaboration between professionals, and good transitions between individual and conjoint work. This article describes a systemic practice framework for working with partners, utilising individual, group, and conjoint sessions in a recursive four phase approach.
Mesoporous silica SBA‐15 functionalized with acidic deep eutectic solvent: A highly active heterogeneous N‐formylation catalyst under solvent‐free conditions
Authors: Azizi Najmedin , Edrisi Mahtab , Abbasi Faezeh
Published: June 2017

Mesoporous silica SBA‐15 functionalized with N‐methylpyrrolidonium‐zinc chloride based deep eutectic solvent (DES) is found to be a more efficient and reusable catalyst for a convenient N‐formylation of a variety of amines at room temperature. N‐Formylation of primary, secondary as well as heterocyclic amines have been carried out in good to excellent yields by treatment with formic acid in low loading of DES/SBA‐15 an environmentally benign catalyst for the first time. The DES/SBA‐15 catalyst, which possesses both Brønsted and Lewis acidities as well as an active SBA‐15 support, makes this procedure quite simple, reusable, more convenient and practical. This catalyst was tolerant of a wide range of functional groups, and it can be reused for four runs without obvious deactivation.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed [2+2+2] Cycloaddition of 1,6‐Enynes and Unactivated Alkynes: Access to Ring‐Fused Cyclohexadienes
Authors: Liu Rui , Giordano Laurent , Tenaglia Alphonse
Published: June 2017

The [2+2+2] intermolecular carbocyclization reactions between 1,6‐enynes and alkynes catalyzed by [RuCl(cod)(Cp*)] (cod=1,5‐cyclooctadiene, Cp*=pentamethylcyclopentadienyl) are reported to provide bicyclohexa‐1,3‐dienes. The presented reaction conditions are compatible with internal and terminal alkynes and the chemo‐ and regioselectivity issues are controlled by the presence of substituents at the propargyl carbon center of the alkyne(s) partner(s).
Catalytic Oxidation of Alcohol to Carboxylic Acid with a Hydrophobic Cobalt Catalyst in Hydrocarbon Solvent
Authors: Shi Song , Liu Meng , Zhao Li , Wang Min , Chen Chen , Gao Jin , Xu Jie
Published: June 2017

A hydrophobic cobalt catalyst was synthesized and proved to be effective in alcohol oxidation under the assistance of hydrocarbon solvent with oxygen as the terminal oxidant. A series of catalysts with different water contact angles was applied to investigate the hydrophobic effect. Further insight into the reaction process was gained by reaction kinetics, isotopic effect, etc. It showed that the hydrocarbon solvent participated in the alcohol oxidation, and with the aid of the in situ generated free radicals, the α‐C−H bond was smoothly activated and the alcohol was converted to carbonyl compounds. The hydrophobic effect promoted the alcohol oxidation by affecting the solvent oxidation.
Process development of human multipotent stromal cell microcarrier culture using an automated high‐throughput microbioreactor
Authors: Rafiq Qasim A. , Hanga Mariana P. , Heathman Thomas R. J. , Coopman Karen , Nienow Alvin W. , Williams David J. , Hewitt Christopher J.
Published: June 2017

Microbioreactors play a critical role in process development as they reduce reagent requirements and can facilitate high‐throughput screening of process parameters and culture conditions. Here, we have demonstrated and explained in detail, for the first time, the amenability of the automated ambr15 cell culture microbioreactor system for the development of scalable adherent human mesenchymal multipotent stromal/stem cell (hMSC) microcarrier culture processes. This was achieved by first improving suspension and mixing of the microcarriers and then improving cell attachment thereby reducing the initial growth lag phase. The latter was achieved by using only 50% of the final working volume of medium for the first 24 h and using an intermittent agitation strategy. These changes resulted in >150% increase in viable cell density after 24 h compared to the original process (no agitation for 24 h and 100% working volume). Using the same methodology as in the ambr15, similar improvements were obtained with larger scale spinner flask studies. Finally, this improved bioprocess methodology based on a serum‐based medium was applied to a serum‐free process in the ambr15, resulting in >250% increase in yield compared to the serum‐based process. At both scales, the agitation used during culture was the minimum required for microcarrier suspension, NJS. The use of the ambr15, with its improved control compared to the spinner flask, reduced the coefficient of variation on viable cell density in the serum containing medium from 7.65% to 4.08%, and the switch to serum free further reduced these to 1.06–0.54%, respectively. The combination of both serum‐free and automated processing improved the reproducibility more than 10‐fold compared to the serum‐based, manual spinner flask process. The findings of this study demonstrate that the ambr15 microbioreactor is an effective tool for bioprocess development of hMSC microcarrier cultures and that a combination of serum‐free medium, control, and automation improves both process yield and consistency. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 2253–2266. © 2017 The Authors. Biotechnology and Bioengineering Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biofabrication of soft tissue templates for engineering the bone–ligament interface
Authors: Harris Ella , Liu Yurong , Cunniffe Grainne , Morrissey David , Carroll Simon , Mulhall Kevin , Kelly Daniel J.
Published: June 2017

Regenerating damaged tissue interfaces remains a significant clinical challenge, requiring recapitulation of the structure, composition, and function of the native enthesis. In the ligament‐to‐bone interface, this region transitions from ligament to fibrocartilage, to calcified cartilage and then to bone. This gradation in tissue types facilitates the transfer of load between soft and hard structures while minimizing stress concentrations at the interface. Previous attempts to engineer the ligament–bone interface have utilized various scaffold materials with an array of various cell types and/or biological cues. The primary goal of this study was to engineer a multiphased construct mimicking the ligament–bone interface by driving differentiation of a single population of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), seeded within blended fibrin‐alginate hydrogels, down an endochondral, fibrocartilaginous, or ligamentous pathway through spatial presentation of growth factors along the length of the construct within a custom‐developed, dual‐chamber culture system. MSCs within these engineered constructs demonstrated spatially distinct regions of differentiation, adopting either a cartilaginous or ligamentous phenotype depending on their local environment. Furthermore, there was also evidence of spatially defined progression toward an endochondral phenotype when chondrogenically primed MSCs within this construct were additionally exposed to hypertrophic cues. The study demonstrates the feasibility of engineering spatially complex soft tissues within a single MSC laden hydrogel through the defined presentation of biochemical cues. This novel approach represents a new strategy for engineering the ligament–bone interface. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 2400–2411. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictors of BRCA1/2 genetic testing among Black women with breast cancer: a population‐based study
Authors: Jones Tarsha , McCarthy Anne Marie , Kim Younji , Armstrong Katrina
Published: June 2017

Evidence shows that Black women diagnosed with breast cancer are substantially less likely to undergo BRCA testing and other multipanel genetic testing compared to White women, despite having a higher incidence of early‐age onset breast cancer and triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). Our study identifies predictors of BRCA testing among Black women treated for breast cancer and examines differences between BRCA testers and nontesters. We conducted an analysis of 945 Black women ages 18–64 diagnosed with localized or regional‐stage invasive breast cancer in Pennsylvania and Florida between 2007 and 2009. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of BRCA 1/2 testing. Few (27%) (n = 252) of the participants reported having BRCA testing. In the multivariate analysis, we found that perceived benefits of BRCA testing (predisposing factor) ([OR], 1.16; 95% CI: 1.11–1.21; P < 0.001), income (enabling factor) ([OR], 2.10; 95% CI: 1.16–3.80; p = 0.014), and BRCA mutation risk category (need factor) ([OR], 3.78; 95% CI: 2.31–6.19; P < 0.001) predicted BRCA testing. These results suggest that interventions to reduce disparities in BRCA testing should focus on identifying patients with high risk of mutation, increasing patient understanding of the benefits of BRCA testing, and removing financial and other administrative barriers to genetic testing.
Decreased expression of WNT2 in villi of unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion patients may cause trophoblast cell dysfunction via downregulated Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Li Ning , Li Shuhong , Wang Yanwei , Wang Jiahui , Wang Kai , Liu Xin , Li Yan , Liu Juan
Published: June 2017

WNT2 has been reported to be important for placental development, especially for the proper vascularization of the placenta. However, its precise role in first‐trimester trophoblast cells is still unknown. WNT2 expression in the villous tissues of unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion (URSA) patients was compared with that of healthy women by Western blot. The function of WNT2 in HTR‐8/SVneo trophoblast cells was evaluated by altering the cellular WNT2 level through overexpression and shRNA knockdown. The molecular mechanism of the effect of WNT2 on trophoblast cells was investigated. The association of WNT2 with the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway was studied through Western blot and immunofluorescence. Results showed that WNT2 protein expression was significantly decreased in villi of the URSA group compared with the control group. In vitro studies showed that WNT2 could promote human trophoblast cell proliferation and migration through activating the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. Moreover, upon the knockdown of WNT2, trophoblast cell proliferation and migration were significantly suppressed. In conclusion, our study indicated that WNT2 plays an important role in trophoblast function. WNT2 insufficiency might cause impaired trophoblast cell proliferation and migration via downregulation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway.
An acute phase reaction with intravenous bisphosphonate use in a patient with recently diagnosed Graves’ disease
Authors: Gupta Katharine , Estrella Jane , Rajagopal Rohit , Shanmugalingam Praseetha , Simmons David
Published: June 2017

Key Clinical Message

Given the immune background, we hypothesize that active Grave's hyperthyroidism is a risk factor for an acute phase reaction associated with the use of bisphosphonates. We recommend that in patients with Graves’ thyrotoxicosis and hypercalcemia, consider the risk of an acute phase reaction if planning to give bisphosphonate therapy.
Diagnosis of a defect in the uterine wall using 3D ultrasound in the 16th week of gestation
Authors: López Ramón y Cajal Carlos , Rodríguez Fernández Vanesa
Published: June 2017

Key Clinical Message

The 3D volumetric transabdominal study with rendering mode is a very useful tool to perform a detailed study of the uterine wall, and it allows us to create a safe and early strategy during pregnancy in uterine dehiscences, as we show in this case in the 16th week of gestation.
Low‐Viscosity γ‐Butyrolactone‐Based Concentrated Electrolyte Solutions for LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 Positive Electrodes in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Doi Takayuki , Shimizu Yusuke , Hashinokuchi Michihiro , Inaba Minoru
Published: June 2017

Highly concentrated electrolyte solution with a low viscosity and high stability against oxidation was obtained by using a single solvent system of LiBF4/γ‐butyrolactone (GBL). Although up to 4.65 mol kg−1 LiBF4 could be dissolved in GBL at room temperature, 3.87 mol kg−1 LiBF4/GBL was a reasonable compromise to attain a low viscosity (52.1 mPa s) and a low GBL/Li molar ratio (3.00). Sodium carboxymethylcellulose and poly(acrylic acid) were used as binders for the spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 positive electrode and the graphite negative electrode, respectively, to suppress the swelling of conventional poly(vinylidene fluoride)‐based binder. The charge and discharge performances of the LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 positive electrode and the graphite negative electrode were improved by using 3.87 mol kg−1 LiBF4/GBL, as compared with concentrated propylene carbonate‐based electrolyte solution.
Polypyrrole Nanofibers with Extended 1D Hierarchical Structure
Authors: Wójcik Kamil , Grzeszczuk Maria
Published: June 2017

A two‐step electrochemical synthesis of polypyrrole nanofibers with a fractal‐like surface structure is described. The bilayer structure of polypyrrole on a Pt substrate provided protection of the polymer against overoxidation. The polypyrrole bilayer is electronically conductive. Specific charge‐transport properties originated from the primary counter ions used in the two‐step electrosynthesis. When the outer layer of polypyrrole was involved in cation exchange during redox switching, the inner layer of anion exchanging polypyrrole was set at its conductive oxidized state, thus providing a stable reversible redox activity of the former. The growth dimensionality of the outer layer (1D or 2D) depended on the concentration of the anionic surfactant in the polymerization solution.
Patterning on Topography for Generation of Cell Culture Substrates with Independent Nanoscale Control of Chemical and Topographical Extracellular Matrix Cues
Authors: Sevcik Emily N. , Szymanski John M. , Jallerat Quentin , Feinberg Adam W.
Published: June 2017

The cell microenvironment plays an important role in many biological processes, including development and disease progression. Key to this is the extracellular matrix (ECM), a complex biopolymer network serving as the primary insoluble signaling network for physical, chemical, and mechanical cues. In vitro, the ability to engineer the ECM at the micro‐ and nanoscales is a critical tool to systematically interrogate the influence of ECM properties on cellular responses. Specifically, both topographical and chemical surface patterning has been shown to direct cell alignment and tissue architecture on biomaterial surfaces, however, it has proven challenging to independently control these surface properties. This protocol describes a method termed Patterning on Topography (PoT) to engineer 2D nanopatterns of ECM proteins onto topographically complex substrates, which enables independent control of physical and chemical surface properties. Applications include interrogation of fundamental cell‐surface interactions and engineering interfaces that can direct cell and/or tissue function. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 4′‐Selenonucleosides via the Seleno‐Michael Reaction
Authors: Sahu Pramod K. , Jarhad Dnyandev B. , Kim Gyudong , Jeong Lak Shin
Published: June 2017

5′‐Homo‐4′‐selenonucleosides, a class of next‐generation nucleosides, are synthesized from D‐ribose via a 4‐selenosugar intermediate. The key step in synthesizing this intermediate is a seleno‐Michael reaction. 5′‐Homo‐4′‐selenouridine and ‐adenosine are prepared using Pummerer‐type and Vorbrüggen condensation, respectively. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Handling Fast‐Flowering Mini‐Maize
Authors: McCaw Morgan E. , Birchler James A.
Published: June 2017

Maize (Zea mays) has a long history as a model organism for genetic analysis due to its ease of crossing, relatively large number of progeny, and ability to determine many genotypic traits through phenotypic kernel markers. Fast‐Flowering Mini‐Maize A and B (FFMM) are two recently developed lines of maize selected for traits that make them more conducive to research. FFMM flowers more quickly than standard maize and is much smaller; thus it requires a slightly modified protocol for care and crossing. The following protocol describes how to plant, care for, and cross FFMM in greenhouse, growth chamber, and field conditions. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Abiotic and biotic factors modulate carrion fate and vertebrate scavenging communities
Authors: Turner Kelsey L. , Abernethy Erin F. , Conner L. Mike , Rhodes Olin E. , Beasley James C.
Published: June 2017

Carrion is a valuable nutrient resource used by a diversity of vertebrates across the globe. However, vertebrate scavenging ecology remains an understudied area of science, especially in regards to how biotic and abiotic factors influence scavenging community composition. Here we elucidate how fundamental biotic and abiotic factors interact to modulate the efficiency and composition of vertebrate scavengers by investigating scavenging dynamics across a large gradient in carcass sizes and habitat types representative of many temperate ecosystems, as well as between two seasons reflecting differences in invertebrate activity. We found carcass size and season influenced carcass fate and persistence, as well as the richness and composition of vertebrate scavenger communities utilizing carrion resources. Species richness, which increased as carcass size increased and was higher during the cool season, had a significant effect on carcass persistence. In addition, habitat type influenced carcass detection times by vertebrates, and we observed relatively distinct scavenging communities associated with carcasses of differing sizes. This research highlights a pervasive limitation to the interpretation of results of previous studies as research failing to incorporate carcass size and habitat type could result in the over or underrepresentation of vertebrate scavengers in food web dynamics.
Iron(II) High‐Spin and Low‐Spin Complexes from Pentaisopropylcyclopentadienyliron(II) Bis(trimethylsilyl)amide
Authors: Groß Oliver A. , Lauk Sergej , Müller Carsten , Gidt Wjatscheslaw , Sun Yu , Demeshko Serhiy , Meyer Franc , Sitzmann Helmut
Published: June 2017

Two new complexes, [(C5Me5)FeBr(tmeda)] (tmeda = tetramethylethylenediamine) and [{C5(CHMe2)5}FeN(SiMe3)2], have been synthesized and characterized as high‐spin iron(II) complexes with typical distances between the iron atom and the center of gravity of the C5 ring (Fe–Cpcent) exceeding 190 pm and displaying paramagnetic behavior in solution. Both are analogues of known complexes, namely, the Jonas complex [(C5Me5)FeCl(tmeda)] and the Siemeling “pogo‐stick” complex [(C5Me5)FeN(SiMe3)2]. The silylamide [{C5(CHMe2)5}FeN(SiMe3)2] was treated with water to yield the bridged hydroxo dimer [{C5(CHMe2)5}Fe(µ‐OH)]2 with high‐spin iron(II) configuration. With 2,5‐dimethylpyrrole the azaferrocene derivative [{C5(CHMe2)5}Fe(NC4H2Me2‐2,5)] was obtained, and with diphenylphosphine a few crystals of the diphosphine hydride [{C5(CHMe2)5}FeH(HPPh2)2] as well as a sample of its dehydrogenative P–P coupling product [{C5(CHMe2)5}FeH(Ph2P–PPh2)]n (n = 1 or 2) have been obtained, which are both diamagnetic 18‐valence‐electron complexes. Two‐coordinated [{C5(CHMe2)5}FeN(SiMe3)2] features sizeable negative magnetic anisotropy and slow magnetic relaxation with an effective energy barrier for spin reversal of 113 cm–1 under an applied field of 3000 Oe.
Strategies for the Construction of Supramolecular Dimers versus Homoleptic 1D Coordination Polymers Starting from the Diphosphorus [Cp2Mo2(CO)4(η2‐P2)] Complex and Silver(I) Salts
Authors: Elsayed Moussa Mehdi , Fleischmann Martin , Peresypkina Eugenia V. , Dütsch Luis , Seidl Michael , Balázs Gabor , Scheer Manfred
Published: June 2017

The reactions of the tetrahedral diphosphorus [Cp2Mo2(CO)4(η2‐P2)] (1; Cp = C5H5) complex with Ag[Al{OC(CF3)3}4] (AgTEF) (A) and Ag[FAl{OC(C6F5)(C6F10)}3] (AgFAl) (B) were studied. The first reaction led to the formation of the [Ag2(η2‐1)2(η1:η1‐1)2][TEF]2 (2) dimer and the [Ag2(η1:η1‐1)3]n[TEF]2n (3) coordination polymer, whereas the second reaction afforded the [Ag2(η1:η1‐1)2(η1‐CH2Cl2)2(η2‐C7H8)2][FAl]2 (4) or the [Ag2(η2‐1)2(η1:η1‐1)2][FAl]2 (5) dimer and the [Ag2(η1:η1‐1)4]n[FAl]2n (6) coordination polymer. In each case, the products obtained depended on the ratio of the reactants and/or the synthetic procedure.
A Network Meta‐Analysis of Short and Long‐Term Efficacy of Targeted Therapy With Single or Double‐Drug Regimens in the Treatment of Stage III/IV Malignant Melanoma Based on 16 Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Xie Ting , Huang Chun‐Yu , Kang Xu , Luo Jia‐Sheng , Qin Xiao‐Min , Han Feng
Published: June 2017

For the treatment of stage III/IV malignant melanoma (MM), a network meta‐analysis (NMA) was conducted to compare the short and long‐term efficacy of targeted therapy with single or double‐drug regimens. All conducted randomized controlled trials (RCTs) searched from PubMed and Cochrane Library were included in the study for direct and indirect comparison for MM. The odds ratio (OR) and surface under the cumulative ranking curves (SUCRA) value of the targeted therapy with single or double‐drug regimens for treatment of stage III/IV MM were also analyzed. To group the treatments according to their similarity with regards to both outcomes, cluster analyses were performed. Ultimately, 16 RCTs were incorporated for this NMA. The NMA revealed that the overall response rate (ORR) values of single‐drug regimens (Vemurafenib [Vem], Dabrafenib [Dab], and Nivolumab [Niv]) were higher than those of Dacarbazine (Dac). Also the ORR values of double‐drug regimens (Dab + Trametinib [Dab + Tra], Niv + Ipilimumab [Niv + Ipi], and Vem + Cobimetinib [Vem + Cob]) were moderately higher than those of Dac. The results of the SUCRA showed that short‐term efficacy of single‐drug regimens (Vem and Dab) were better, while the short‐term efficacy of double‐drug regimens (Dab + Tra and Vem + Cob) were relatively better. It was determined that Vem, Dab, and Niv might be the best choice in evaluating the treatment of stage III/IV MM among different single‐drug targeted therapy regimens, while Dab + Tra, Niv + Ipi, and Vem + Cob might have better short‐term efficacy among different double‐drug targeted therapy regimens. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 640–649, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative study on ambient ionization methods for direct analysis of navel orange tissues by mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Hua , Bibi Aisha , Lu Haiyan , Han Jing , Chen Huanwen
Published: June 2017

It is of sustainable interest to improve the sensitivity and selectivity of the ionization process, especially for direct analysis of complex samples without matrix separation. Herein, four ambient ionization methods including desorption atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (DAPCI), heat‐assisted desorption atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (heat‐assisted DAPCI), microwave plasma torch (MPT) and internal extractive electrospray ionization (iEESI) were employed for comparative analysis of the navel orange tissue samples by mass spectrometry. The volatile organic compounds (e.g. ethanol, vanillin, leaf alcohol and jasmine lactone) were successfully detected by non‐heat‐assisted DAPCI‐MS, while semi‐volatile organic compounds (e.g. 1‐nonanol and ethyl nonanoate) together with low abundance of non‐volatile organic compounds (e.g. sinensetin and nobiletin) were obtained by heat‐assisted DAPCI‐MS. Typical nonvolatile organic compounds [e.g. 5‐(hydroxymethyl)furfural and glucosan] were sensitively detected with MPT‐MS. Compounds of high polarity (e.g. amino acids, alkaloids and sugars) were easily profiled with iEESI‐MS. Our data showed that more analytes could be detected when more energy was delivered for the desorption ionization purpose; however, heat‐sensitive analytes would not be detected once the energy input exceeded the dissociation barriers of the analytes. For the later cases, soft ionization methods such as iEESI were recommended to sensitively profile the bioanalytes of high polarity. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Classification of surfaces in a pseudo‐sphere with 2‐type pseudo‐spherical Gauss map
Authors: Bektaş Burcu , Canfes Elif Özkara , Dursun Uğur
Published: June 2017

In this article, we study submanifolds in a pseudo‐sphere with 2‐type pseudo‐spherical Gauss map. We give a characterization theorem for Lorentzian surfaces in the pseudo‐sphere with zero mean curvature vector in and 2‐type pseudo‐spherical Gauss map. We also prove that non‐totally umbilical proper pseudo‐Riemannian hypersurfaces in a pseudo‐sphere with non‐zero constant mean curvature has 2‐type pseudo‐spherical Gauss map if and only if it has constant scalar curvature. Then, for we obtain the classification of surfaces in with 2‐type pseudo‐spherical Gauss map. Finally, we give an example of surface with null 2‐type pseudo‐spherical Gauss map which does not appear in Riemannian case, and we give a characterization theorem for Lorentzian surfaces in with null 2‐type pseudo‐spherical Gauss map.
Tankyrase inhibition regulates corpus luteum development and luteal function in gonadotropin‐treated rats
Authors: Accialini Paula , Irusta Griselda , Bechis Andrés , Bas Diana , Parborell Fernanda , Abramovich Dalhia , Tesone Marta
Published: June 2017

Tankyrases are physiological regulators of Axin, a protein involved in several cellular processes, including Wnt signaling. Here, we investigated the effect of a specific Tankyrase inhibitor (XAV939) in follicular‐luteal dynamics, and its possible relationship with ovarian vascular development. Studies were designed to analyze the effect of intrabursa administration of XAV939 in gonadotropin‐treated prepubertal rats. In particular, we examined follicle and corpus luteum development, steroidogenesis, angiogenic markers, and apoptotic parameters. We found that in vivo inhibition of Wnt signaling impaired corpus luteum development, with a decrease in the number of corpora lutea balanced by a high number of cysts; decreased circulating progesterone levels, likely due to a decrease in Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein content in the corpus luteum; and increased pro‐apoptotic parameters. In addition, Extracellular signal‐regulated kinase phosphorylation, Vascular endothelium growth factor 120 content, and endothelial cell area were diminished in corpora lutea of inhibitor‐treated ovaries. Thus, Wnt/β‐catenin signaling appears to participate in the regulation of corpus luteum development and luteal cell function.
Quantitative Gd‐DOTA uptake from cerebrospinal fluid into rat brain using 3D VFA‐SPGR at 9.4T
Authors: Lee Hedok , Mortensen Kristian , Sanggaard Simon , Koch Palle , Brunner Hans , Quistorff Bjørn , Nedergaard Maiken , Benveniste Helene
Published: June 2017

Purpose

We propose a quantitative technique to assess solute uptake into the brain parenchyma based on dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI (DCE‐MRI). With this approach, a small molecular weight paramagnetic contrast agent (Gd‐DOTA) is infused in the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and whole brain gadolinium concentration maps are derived.

Methods

We implemented a 3D variable flip angle spoiled gradient echo (VFA‐SPGR) longitudinal relaxation time (T1) technique, the accuracy of which was cross‐validated by way of inversion recovery rapid acquisition with relaxation enhancement (IR‐RARE) using phantoms. Normal Wistar rats underwent Gd‐DOTA infusion into CSF via the cisterna magna and continuous MRI for approximately 130 min using T1‐weighted imaging. Dynamic Gd‐DOTA concentration maps were calculated and parenchymal uptake was estimated.

Results

In the phantom study, T1 discrepancies between the VFA‐SPGR and IR‐RARE sequences were approximately 6% with a transmit coil inhomogeneity correction. In the in vivo study, contrast transport profiles indicated maximal parenchymal retention of approximately 19% relative to the total amount delivered into the cisterna magna.

Conclusion

Imaging strategies for accurate 3D contrast concentration mapping at 9.4T were developed and whole brain dynamic concentration maps were derived to study solute transport via the glymphatic system. The newly developed approach will enable future quantitative studies of the glymphatic system in health and disease states. Magn Reson Med 79:1568–1578, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Three‐dimensional motion corrected sensitivity encoding reconstruction for multi‐shot multi‐slice MRI: Application to neonatal brain imaging
Authors: Cordero‐Grande Lucilio , Hughes Emer J. , Hutter Jana , Price Anthony N. , Hajnal Joseph V.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

To introduce a methodology for the reconstruction of multi‐shot, multi‐slice magnetic resonance imaging able to cope with both within‐plane and through‐plane rigid motion and to describe its application in structural brain imaging.

Theory and Methods

The method alternates between motion estimation and reconstruction using a common objective function for both. Estimates of three‐dimensional motion states for each shot and slice are gradually refined by improving on the fit of current reconstructions to the partial k‐space information from multiple coils. Overlapped slices and super‐resolution allow recovery of through‐plane motion and outlier rejection discards artifacted shots. The method is applied to T2 and T1 brain scans acquired in different views.

Results

The procedure has greatly diminished artifacts in a database of 1883 neonatal image volumes, as assessed by image quality metrics and visual inspection. Examples showing the ability to correct for motion and robustness against damaged shots are provided. Combination of motion corrected reconstructions for different views has shown further artifact suppression and resolution recovery.

Conclusion

The proposed method addresses the problem of rigid motion in multi‐shot multi‐slice anatomical brain scans. Tests on a large collection of potentially corrupted datasets have shown a remarkable image quality improvement. Magn Reson Med 79:1365–1376, 2018. © 2017 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
An algebraic multigrid method forQ2−Q1mixed discretizations of the Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Prokopenko Andrey , Tuminaro Raymond S.
Published: June 2017

Algebraic multigrid (AMG) preconditioners are considered for discretized systems of partial differential equations (PDEs) where unknowns associated with different physical quantities are not necessarily colocated at mesh points. Specifically, we investigate aQ2−Q1mixed finite element discretization of the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations where the number of velocity nodes is much greater than the number of pressure nodes. Consequently, some velocity degrees of freedom (DOFs) are defined at spatial locations where there are no corresponding pressure DOFs. Thus, AMG approaches leveraging this colocated structure are not applicable. This paper instead proposes an automatic AMG coarsening that mimics certain pressure/velocity DOF relationships of theQ2−Q1discretization. The main idea is to first automatically define coarse pressures in a somewhat standard AMG fashion and then to carefully (but automatically) choose coarse velocity unknowns so that the spatial location relationship between pressure and velocity DOFs resembles that on the finest grid. To define coefficients within the intergrid transfers, an energy minimization AMG (EMIN‐AMG) is utilized. EMIN‐AMG is not tied to specific coarsening schemes and grid transfer sparsity patterns, and so it is applicable to the proposed coarsening. Numerical results highlighting solver performance are given on Stokes and incompressible Navier–Stokes problems.
In vitro maturation of human immature oocytes for fertility preservation and research material
Authors: Shirasawa Hiromitsu , Terada Yukihiro
Published: June 2017

Aim

In recent years, the importance of fertility preservation (FP) has increased. In vitro maturation (IVM), an important technique in FP, has started to be used in the clinic, but controversies persist regarding this technique. Here, a survey of IVM for FP is provided.

Methods

Based on a literature review, the applications of FP, methods of FP, IVM of oocytes that had been collected in vivo and ex vivo, maturation of oocytes after IVM for FP, cryopreservation of oocytes for FP, explanation of the procedures to patients, and recent research on FP using IVM were investigated.

Results

Although IVM for FP remains controversial, the application of FP is expected to expand. Depending on the age and disease status of the patient, various methods of oocyte collection and ovarian stimulation, as well as various needle types and aspiration pressures, have been reported. The maturation rate of IVM in FP ranges widely and requires optimization in the future. In regard to cryopreservation for matured oocytes, the vitrification method is currently recommended.

Conclusion

Regarding FP for patients with cancer, the treatment of cancer is prioritized; thus, the time and use of medicines are often constrained. As several key points regarding IVM remain unclear, well‐designed and specific counseling for patients is necessary.
Effect of Residence in Temporary Housing After the Great East Japan Earthquake on the Physical Activity and Quality of Life of Older Survivors
Authors: Moriyama Nobuaki , Urabe Yukio , Onoda Shuichi , Maeda Noriaki , Oikawa Tomoyoshi
Published: June 2017

Objective

This study aimed to compare the physical activity level and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) between older survivors residing in temporary housing after the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE; temporary housing group) and older individuals residing in their own homes (control group) and to clarify whether mobility function and muscle strength were correlated with physical activity among older temporary housing residents.

Methods

Subjects were recruited to the temporary housing group (n=64, 19 men and 45 women) or control group (n=64, 33 men and 31 women) according to their residence. Physical activity was assessed by the number of walking steps determined by using a triaxial accelerometer, mobility function by the Timed Up and Go test, muscle strength by the grasping power test, and HRQOL by the Medical Outcome Study 36-Item Short Form Survey v2.

Results

In the temporary housing group, reduced physical activity and correlation between physical activity and mobility function in men, and muscle strength in both men and women, were observed. There was no significant difference in HRQOL between groups except for bodily pain in women.

Conclusion

Support for older evacuees should focus on maintaining their physical activity level as well as on HRQOL to avoid deterioration of health in these survivors. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:701–710)
RAMSEY’S THEOREM FOR PAIRS ANDKCOLORS AS A SUB-CLASSICAL PRINCIPLE OF ARITHMETIC
Authors: BERARDI STEFANO , STEILA SILVIA
Published: June 2017

The purpose is to study the strength of Ramsey’s Theorem for pairs restricted to recursive assignments ofk-many colors, with respect to Intuitionistic Heyting Arithmetic. We prove that for every natural number$k \ge 2$, Ramsey’s Theorem for pairs and recursive assignments ofkcolors is equivalent to the Limited Lesser Principle of Omniscience for${\rm{\Sigma }}_3^0$formulas over Heyting Arithmetic. Alternatively, the same theorem over intuitionistic arithmetic is equivalent to: for every recursively enumerable infinitek-ary tree there is some$i < k$and some branch with infinitely many children of indexi.
HYPERCLASS FORCING IN MORSE-KELLEY CLASS THEORY
Authors: ANTOS CAROLIN , FRIEDMAN SY-DAVID
Published: June 2017

In this article we introduce and study hyperclass-forcing (where the conditions of the forcing notion are themselves classes) in the context of an extension of Morse-Kelley class theory, called MK**. We define this forcing by using a symmetry between MK** models and models of ZFC− plus there exists a strongly inaccessible cardinal (called SetMK**). We develop a coding between β-models ${\cal M}$ of MK** and transitive models M+ of SetMK** which will allow us to go from ${\cal M}$ to M+ and vice versa. So instead of forcing with a hyperclass in MK** we can force over the corresponding SetMK** model with a class of conditions. For class-forcing to work in the context of ZFC− we show that the SetMK** model M+ can be forced to look like LK*[X], where κ* is the height of M+, κ strongly inaccessible in M+ and $X \subseteq \kappa$. Over such a model we can apply definable class forcing and we arrive at an extension of M+ from which we can go back to the corresponding β-model of MK**, which will in turn be an extension of the original ${\cal M}$. Our main result combines hyperclass forcing with coding methods of [3] and [4] to show that every β-model of MK** can be extended to a minimal such model of MK** with the same ordinals. A simpler version of the proof also provides a new and analogous minimality result for models of second-order arithmetic.
CANONICAL MODELS FOR FRAGMENTS OF THE AXIOM OF CHOICE
Authors: LARSON PAUL , ZAPLETAL JINDŘICH
Published: June 2017

We develop technology for investigation of natural forcing extensions of the model $L\left( \mathbb{R} \right)$ which satisfy such statements as “there is an ultrafilter” or “there is a total selector for the Vitali equivalence relation”. The technology reduces many questions about ZF implications between consequences of the Axiom of Choice to natural ZFC forcing problems.
Radiocarbon Dates Constrain the Timing of Environmental and Cultural Shifts in the Holocene Strata of Wonderwerk Cave, South Africa
Authors: Ecker Michaela , Brink James , Chazan Michael , Kolska Horwitz Liora , Lee-Thorp Julia A
Published: June 2017

Wonderwerk Cave has yielded one of the longest and most complete Holocene Later Stone Age (LSA) records for the arid interior of South Africa. This paper presents the results of a new radiocarbon dating program for Excavation 1 that is explored within a Bayesian model of all existing Wonderwerk Cave radiocarbon (14C) dates for the Holocene. The proposed model, usingPhaseswithin an OxCalSequencemodel, provides robust age estimates for changes in the technological and paleoenvironmental record at the site. The more precise dates allow a comparison of the timing of climate shifts across the interior of southern Africa and begin to allow us to identify whether hiatuses in human occupation, or cultural shifts, are synchronous across broader areas of the subcontinent, or not.
Childhood Skill Development and Adult Political Participation
Authors: HOLBEIN JOHN B.
Published: June 2017

Recent child development research shows that the psychosocial or noncognitive skills that children develop—including the ability to self-regulate and integrate in social settings—are important for success in school and beyond. Are these skills learned in childhood also important for adult political behaviors like voting? In this article, I use a unique school-based 20-year field experiment to explore whether children who develop psychosocial skills early on are more likely to vote in adulthood than those who do not. Matching subjects to voter files, I show that this intervention had a noticeable long-run impact on political participation. These results highlight the need to better understand how childhood experiences shape civic behaviors later in life. During this critical period, children can be taught the not explicitly political, but still vital, skills that set them on a path toward political participation in adulthood.
May the Mediterranean diet attenuate the risk of type 2 diabetes associated with obesity: the Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra (SUN) cohort
Authors: Eguaras Sonia , Bes-Rastrollo Maira , Ruiz-Canela Miguel , Carlos Silvia , de la Rosa Pedro , Martínez-González Miguel A.
Published: June 2017

It is likely that the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) may mitigate the adverse effects of obesity on the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We assessed this hypothesis in a cohort of 18 225 participants initially free of diabetes (mean age: 38 years, 61 % women). A validated semi-quantitative 136-item FFQ was used to assess dietary intake and to build a 0–9 score of adherence to MedDiet. After a median of 9·5-year follow-up, 136 incident cases of T2DM were confirmed during 173 591 person-years follow-up. When MedDiet adherence was low (≤4 points), the multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) were 4·07 (95 % CI 1·58, 10·50) for participants with BMI 25–29·99 kg/m2and 17·70 (95 % CI 6·29, 49·78) kg/m2for participants with BMI≥30 kg/m2, (v.<25 kg/m2). In the group with better adherence to the MedDiet (>4 points), these multivariable-adjusted HR were 3·13 (95 % CI 1·63, 6·01) and 10·70 (95 % CI 4·98, 22·99) for BMI 25–30 and ≥30 kg/m2, respectively. ThePvalue for the interaction was statistically significant (P=0·002). When we assessed both variables (BMI and MedDiet) as continuous, thePvalue for their interaction product-term was marginally significant (P=0·051) in fully adjusted models. This effect modification was not explained by weight changes during follow-up. Our results suggest that the MedDiet may attenuate the adverse effects of obesity on the risk of T2DM.
Russia and the environmental protection of Antarctica: the 25th anniversary of the Madrid Protocol
Authors: Uryupova Ekaterina , Spiridonov Vasily
Published: June 2017

In 2016, we marked the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Protocol on the Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty, or the Madrid Protocol. The Protocol signalled a commitment to address issues of climate change and the protection of the Antarctic resources. Russia exerted appropriate efforts pursuant to scientific research programmes, tourism and all other governmental and non-governmental activities. In the light of the commemoration of the anniversary, this paper highlights major steps of the Russian Federation toward the implementation of the international agreement and application of scientific principles for environmental protection and management in Antarctica.
Deterioration of visuospatial associative memory following a first psychotic episode: a long-term follow-up study
Authors: Wannan C. M. J. , Bartholomeusz C. F. , Cropley V. L. , Van Rheenen T. E. , Panayiotou A. , Brewer W. J. , Proffitt T. M. , Henry L. , Harris M. G. , Velakoulis D. , McGorry P. , Pantelis C. , Wood S. J.
Published: June 2017

Background

Cognitive deficits are a core feature of schizophrenia, and impairments in most domains are thought to be stable over the course of the illness. However, cross-sectional evidence indicates that some areas of cognition, such as visuospatial associative memory, may be preserved in the early stages of psychosis, but become impaired in later established illness stages. This longitudinal study investigated change in visuospatial and verbal associative memory following psychosis onset.

Methods

In total 95 first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients and 63 healthy controls (HC) were assessed on neuropsychological tests at baseline, with 38 FEP and 22 HCs returning for follow-up assessment at 5–11 years. Visuospatial associative memory was assessed using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery Visuospatial Paired-Associate Learning task, and verbal associative memory was assessed using Verbal Paired Associates subtest of the Wechsler Memory Scale - Revised.

Results

Visuospatial and verbal associative memory at baseline did not differ significantly between FEP patients and HCs. However, over follow-up, visuospatial associative memory deteriorated significantly for the FEP group, relative to healthy individuals. Conversely, verbal associative memory improved to a similar degree observed in HCs. In the FEP cohort, visuospatial (but not verbal) associative memory ability at baseline was associated with functional outcome at follow-up.

Conclusions

Areas of cognition that develop prior to psychosis onset, such as visuospatial and verbal associative memory, may be preserved early in the illness. Later deterioration in visuospatial memory ability may relate to progressive structural and functional brain abnormalities that occurs following psychosis onset.
NONPARAMETRIC IDENTIFICATION USING INSTRUMENTAL VARIABLES: SUFFICIENT CONDITIONS FOR COMPLETENESS
Authors: Hu Yingyao , Shiu Ji-Liang
Published: June 2017

This paper provides sufficient conditions for the nonparametric identification of the regression function $m\left( \cdot \right)$ in a regression model with an endogenous regressor x and an instrumental variable z. It has been shown that the identification of the regression function from the conditional expectation of the dependent variable on the instrument relies on the completeness of the distribution of the endogenous regressor conditional on the instrument, i.e., $f\left( {x|z} \right)$. We show that (1) if the deviation of the conditional density $f\left( {x|{z_k}} \right)$ from a known complete sequence of functions is less than a sequence of values determined by the complete sequence in some distinct sequence $\left\{ {{z_k}:k = 1,2,3, \ldots } \right\}$ converging to ${z_0}$, then $f\left( {x|z} \right)$ itself is complete, and (2) if the conditional density $f\left( {x|z} \right)$ can form a linearly independent sequence $\{ f( \cdot |{z_k}):k = 1,2, \ldots \}$ in some distinct sequence $\left\{ {{z_k}:k = 1,2,3, \ldots } \right\}$ converging to ${z_0}$ and its relative deviation from a known complete sequence of functions under some norm is finite then $f\left( {x|z} \right)$ itself is complete. We use these general results to provide specific sufficient conditions for completeness in three different specifications of the relationship between the endogenous regressor x and the instrumental variable $z.$
Place-based social contact and mixing: a typology of generic meeting places of relevance for infectious disease transmission
Authors: STRÖMGREN M. , HOLM E. , DAHLSTRÖM Ö. , EKBERG J. , ERIKSSON H. , SPRECO A. , TIMPKA T.
Published: June 2017

This study aims to develop a typology of generic meeting places based on social contact and mixing of relevance for infectious disease transmission. Data were collected by means of a contact diary survey conducted on a representative sample of the Swedish population. The typology is derived from a cluster analysis accounting for four dimensions associated with transmission risk: visit propensity and its characteristics in terms of duration, number of other persons present and likelihood of physical contact. In the analysis, we also study demographic, socio-economic and geographical differences in the propensity of visiting meeting places. The typology identifies the family venue, the fixed activity site, the family vehicle, the trading plaza and the social network hub as generic meeting places. The meeting place typology represents a spatially explicit account of social contact and mixing relevant to infectious disease modelling, where the social context of the outbreak can be highlighted in light of the actual infectious disease.