bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of health‐related quality of life over time among pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Loiselle Kristin A. , Rausch Joseph R. , Bidwell Sarah , Drake Sarah , Davies Stella M. , Pai Ahna L. H.
Published: June 2016

Background

Advances in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have contributed to increased survival for pediatric patients. However, there are inconsistent findings regarding the impact of HSCT on health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes for children. This study aimed to establish trajectories of HRQOL following HSCT and identify predictors of the HRQOL course.

Procedure

Ninety caregivers of a child who received HSCT (mean age = 6.42 years) for various oncologic, immunologic, and metabolic conditions completed questionnaires regarding family psychosocial functioning and child HRQOL at the time of discharge from HSCT and follow‐up HRQOL at four additional time points.

Results

There was a significant change in overall HRQOL in 3 months postdischarge, with the greatest improvement in physical functioning. Caregiver stress and social support, and child psychosocial problems predicted changes in HRQOL over time.

Conclusions

These results point to potentially modifiable factors that are related to the course of HRQOL following HSCT, and interventions aimed at these factors should be implemented.
Outcome of young children with high‐grade glioma treated with irradiation‐avoiding intensive chemotherapy regimens: Final report of the Head Start II and III trials
Authors: Espinoza Juan C , Haley Kelley , Patel Neha , Dhall Girish , Gardner Sharon , Allen Jeffrey , Torkildson Joseph , Cornelius Albert , Rassekh Rod , Bedros Antranik , Etzl Morris , Garvin James , Pradhan Kamnesh , Corbett Robin , Sullivan Michael , McGowage Geoffrey , Stein Dagmar , Jasty Rama , Sands Stephen A. , Ji Lingyun , Sposto Richard , Finlay Jonathan L.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To report the final analysis of survival outcomes for children with newly diagnosed high‐grade glioma (HGG) treated on the “Head Start” (HS) II and III protocols with chemotherapy and intent to avoid irradiation in children <6 years old.

Patients and Methods

Between 1997 and 2009, 32 eligible children were enrolled in HS II and III with anaplastic astrocytoma (AA, n = 19), glioblastoma multiforme (GBM, n = 11), or other HGG (n = 2). Central pathology review was completed on 78% of patients. Patients with predominantly brainstem tumors were excluded. Patients were to be treated with single induction chemotherapy regimen C, comprising four cycles of vincristine, carboplatin, and temozolomide. Following induction, patients underwent marrow‐ablative chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic cell rescue. Irradiation was used for patients with residual tumor after consolidation or >6 years old or at the time of tumor progression.

Results

The 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) for all HGG patients were 25 ± 8% and 36 ± 9%, respectively. The EFS at 5 years for patients with AA and GBM were 24 ± 11% and 30 ± 16%, respectively (P = 0.65). The OS at 5 years for patients with AA and GBM was 34 ± 12% and 35 ± 16%, respectively (P = 0.83). Children <36 months old experienced improved 5‐year EFS and OS of 44 ± 17% and 63 ± 17%, compared with children 36–71 months old (31 ± 13% and 38 ± 14%) and children >72 months old (0% and 13 ± 12%).

Conclusions

Irradiation‐avoiding treatment strategies should be evaluated further in young children with HGG given similar survival rates to older children receiving standard irradiation‐containing therapies.
Melt‐mixing small diameter glass fiber and epoxy resin in internal mixer without solvent for strain gage substrate
Authors: Han Renlu , Wang Gaoqiang , Hou Yafei , Wang You
Published: June 2016

Glass fiber reinforced epoxy is prepared by melt‐mixing glass fiber of 1 μm in diameter and epoxy resin without adding solvent in internal mixer. Strain gage substrate is made of the prepared glass fiber‐reinforced epoxy using a three‐roller grinder and characterized by SEM, DSC, DMA, and TGA. The results indicate the uniform and dense distribution of glass fibers in epoxy matrix enables the storage modulus, tan delta, heat distortion temperature, creep resistance, and thermal stability of glass fiber‐reinforced epoxy strain gage substrate to be better than those of neat epoxy strain gage substrate. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1321–1330, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical and thermomechanical properties of PLA/Man‐made cellulose green composites modified with functional chain extenders—A comprehensive study
Authors: Jaszkiewicz A. , Meljon A. , Bledzki A.K.
Published: June 2016

The present study aims to investigate the influence of functional chain extenders on the mechanical and thermomechanical behavior of fully bio‐based polylactide composites reinforced with man‐made cellulose short fibers. Two additives with epoxy and maleic anhydride functionalities were used for this purpose. The biocomposite modifications resulted in a considerably altered fiber–matrix interface, which was clearly visible in SEM images, and which affected the tensile and flexural characteristics of the investigated materials. In particular, the chain extender functionalized with maleic anhydride groups influenced the fiber–matrix bonding, and contributed to pull‐outs when the biocomposite fractured. Moreover, a dynamic mechanical thermal analysis was performed, and the storage modulus E′, loss modulus E″, and loss factor (tan δ) were determined. Also, the heat deflection and Vicat softening temperatures were verified. The results of the comprehensive thermal analysis confirmed that the reinforcement of amorphous PLA has no physical effect on its thermal stability. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1716–1723, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
The properties of rice bran carbon/nitrile‐butadiene rubber composites fabricated by latex compounding method
Authors: Zhang Yinhang , Ge Xin , Li Mei‐Chun , Deng Fei , Oh Jihwan , Cho Ur Ryong
Published: June 2016

Nitrile‐butadiene rubber (NBR) composites incorporated with four kinds of rice bran carbon (RBC), with different particle sizes, were fabricated by latex compounding method based on the superior dispersion ability of RBCs in NBR latex. Field emission scanning electron microscopy was employed to confirm the uniform dispersion of filler in the matrix. The mechanical property and oxygen transmission rates of the vulcanizates were studied. The RBC with smallest particle size exhibited best reinforcing performance. Then RBC/NBR composites, with different concentration of (3‐mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane (MPTMS), were prepared by a facile process. MPTMS, for the purpose of enhancing the compatibility between the filler and matrix, was incorporated into the rubber by an in situ method. Morphological analysis, Raman spectroscopy, and dynamic mechanical analysis tests confirmed the improvement of the interfacial interactions between the RBC and NBR matrix. The incorporation of MPTMS significantly enhanced the mechanical and oxygen barrier properties of the RBC/NBR composites. Both, the mechanical property and oxygen barrier abilities increased as the loading of the MPTMS increased, within a range of 0–9 phr. POLYM. COMPOS., 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
N‐Oligo(3‐hydroxybutyrate)‐functionalized polypyrroles: towards bio‐erodible conducting copolymers
Authors: Domagala Anna , Domagala Wojciech , Ledwon Przemyslaw , Musiol Marta , Janeczek Henryk , Stolarczyk Agnieszka , Kurcok Piotr , Adamus Grazyna , Lapkowski Mieczyslaw
Published: June 2016

New copolymer materials have been prepared by chemical grafting of oligomeric 3‐hydroxybutyric acid (OHB) onto polypyrrole (PPy) derivatives. The influence of grafting density and molecular weight of OHB brushes on the physicochemical properties of prepared copolymers was investigated. PPy substrates were prepared by FeCl3‐driven oxidative homopolymerization of N‐(2‐carboxyethyl)pyrrole or its copolymerization with pyrrole. The grafting method employed involved controlled anionic polymerization of β‐butyrolactone on pyrrole‐tethered potassium carboxylate active sites. Obtained PPy‐g‐OHB copolymers of varying grafting density and pendant polyester chain length were characterized and the observed structure–property relationships discussed. The impact of real time exposure to phosphate‐buffered saline environment was investigated and the residue products were characterized. Cross‐correlation of spectroscopic, thermal, electrical and elemental analysis data afforded comprehensive evaluation of the structure of prepared materials and their behaviour in hydrolytic medium. Erosion and degradation pathways have been identified, indicating ways to consciously tailor the physicochemical properties of these new biomimetic materials. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultrafast Jahn–Teller polaron dynamics in a bi‐layered manganite single crystal
Authors: Wang Huizhen , Deng Dongmei , Zhang Zeyu , Xu Kai , Pan Qunfeng , Lin Xian , Yan Long , Cao Shixun , Cheng Zhenxiang , Jin Zuanming , Ma Guohong
Published: June 2016

We report the photoinduced ultrafast quasiparticle recombination dynamics of colossal magnetoresistance single crystal La1.2Sr1.8Mn2O7 by using femtosecond time‐resolved reflection spectroscopy in a wide range of temperatures. Here, we find the transient reflectivity change ΔR exhibits a competition process of a fast negative component (∼ sub‐picosecond) against a slow positive component (∼ nanosecond), as the sample goes from paramagnetic (PM) to ferromagnetic (FM) state with decreasing the temperature. The very fast initial decay of the photoinduced ΔR corresponds to the photoionization of the Jahn–Teller polaronic response, which is unambiguously sensitive to the coupling between electron and lattice in the PM and FM phases in La1.2Sr1.8Mn2O7 single crystal. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Evaluation of two convection‐permitting ensemble systems in the HyMeX Special Observation Period (SOP1) framework
Authors: Nuissier O. , Marsigli C. , Vincendon B. , Hally A. , Bouttier F. , Montani A. , Paccagnella T.
Published: June 2016

This study compares and evaluates two convection‐permitting ensemble systems based on Consortium for Small‐scale Modeling (COSMO) and Applications of Research to Operations at Mesoscale (AROME) models in the HyMeX framework. The performance of both AROME‐EPS and COSMO‐H2‐EPS (where EPS denotes Ensemble Prediction System) is assessed over the whole HyMeX special observation period SOP1. Afterwards, an analysis of the predictability of two heavy precipitation events observed during the intense observation period IOP16a of the first HyMeX special observation period SOP1 on 26 October 2012 is also undertaken. Ensemble discharge forecasts were carried out to reinforce the quantitative precipitation forecast evaluation.

A probabilistic evaluation is conducted over a 53 day period of the HyMeX SOP1. AROME‐EPS has a more discriminating behaviour than COSMO‐H2‐EPS, especially when comparing both ensembles over a verification domain including a strong variability in precipitation events. AROME‐EPS still has slightly better reliability, but the statistical resolution is nearly the same for both convection‐permitting ensemble prediction systems (CPEPS).

For the specific case of heavy precipitation occurring over the Var region (southeastern France), the fine‐scale surface precipitation prediction is strongly sensitive to the good behaviour of a surface low pressure simulated by the ensembles, focusing strong low‐level moisture towards Var. The convergence between strong moistened southerly low‐level inflow and northerly cold air blowing from the Po Valley is a key factor controlling the predictability of the heavy precipitation episode over the Liguria region (northwestern Italy). The two convection‐permitting ensembles, though different in their characteristics, exhibit a good amount of probabilistic skill in forecasting heavy precipitation at a relatively high spatial and temporal resolution. Therefore they can be regarded as promising tools for operational forecasts.
Synthesis and Characterization of Cadmium (II), Lead (II), and Indium (III) Ketoacidoximate Complexes and their Conversion to Metal Oxides
Authors: Khanderi Jayaprakash , Davaasuren Bambar , Rothenberger Alexander
Published: June 2016

The reaction of Cd(II), Pb(II), and In(III) salts with in situ generated pyruvic acid oxime (ketoacidoximate) of the type [O2C‐C(R)=NOH]‐, (R=CH3 or ‐CH2‐C6H5) results in five novel complexes [Cd{O2C‐C(CH2‐C6H5)=NOH}2(py)2]2 (py=C5H5N) 1, [Cd{O2C‐C(CH2‐C6H5)=NOH}2(im)2]2 (im=C3H4N2) 2, [Pb{O2C‐C(CH3)=NOH}2(py)]2 3, [Pb{O2C‐C(CH2‐C6H5)=NOH}2(dmso)]2 (dmso=dimethyl sulfoxide) 4 and (NH4)[In{O2C‐C(CH3)=NOH}4] 5. Single crystal X‐ray structure determination of 1–5 reveal mono‐nuclear In(III) and di‐nuclear, µ2‐oxo bridged Cd(II), Pb(II) complexes. 1–5 undergo thermal decomposition below 210ºC to the corresponding metal oxides.
An Oxido‐Bridged Diiron(II) Complex as Functional Model of Catechol Dioxygenase
Authors: Dey Dhananjay , De Abhranil , Yadav Hare Ram , Guin Partha Sarathi , Choudhury Angshuman Roy , Kole Niranjan , Biswas Bhaskar
Published: June 2016

An oxido‐bridged diiron(II)‐phenanthroline complex, [Fe2O(phen)2Cl2] (1) [phen =1,10‐phenanthroline] has been synthesized from an oxido‐bridged diiron(III) precursor in presence of sodium azide and structurally characterized by different spectroscopic tools including single crystal X‐ray diffraction study.From X‐ray crystal structure of 1, it is revealed that each of the Fe(II) centre is in distorted octahedral geometry with FeN4OCl core and the molecule crystallizes in Pnc2 space group. Bond valence sum (BVS) calculation confirms the existence of iron ions in +2 oxidation state in 1. The diiron(II) complex has been evaluated as model system for the catechol dioxygenase enzyme by using 3,5‐di‐tert‐butylcatechol (DTBC) as the substrate in acetonitrile medium, revealing that 1 efficiently mimics the catalytic cycle of catechol dioxygenase. Upon stoichiometric addition of DTBC pretreated with two equivalents of triethylamine (Et3N) to the diiron complex, two catecholate‐to‐iron(III) LMCT bands (515 nm and 734 nm) are observed. The in situgenerated catecholate adduct from 1in acetonitrile solution react with dioxygen to afford exclusively extradiol cleavage products along with a small amount of benzoquinone, which is also discerned from the appearance and decrease in intensity of the electronic spectral bands around (708 nm; 507 nm) nm. Nucleophilic attack by molecular oxygen on catecholate adduct in solution provides substantial evidence for the regioselective extradiol cleavage products.
A CuI‐Phosphonotriazolate Coordination Polymer Based on [CuI4Cl] Cluster for Fluorescent Sensing of O2
Authors: Wang Dianpeng , Zhang Weiquan , Sun Jinyu , Ling Yun , Chen Zhenxia , Zhou Yaming
Published: June 2016

A novel cuprous coordination polymer built of [Cu4ICl] cluster and 4‐(1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐yl)phenylphosphonate acid (H2ptz) ligand has been hydrothermally synthesized, in which the CuI is in‐situ generated by the reduction reaction from CuII precursors. This compound shows a green fluorescent emission with a maximum peak at 510 nm under N2 flow in solid state, which can be turned off by 21 % O2 flow in minutes. Interestingly, it can be turned on again by switching to N2 flow. A possible mechanism has also been proposed.
Metabolizable Ultrathin Bi2Se3 Nanosheets in Imaging‐Guided Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Xie Hanhan , Li Zhibin , Sun Zhengbo , Shao Jundong , Yu Xue‐Feng , Guo Zhinan , Wang Jiahong , Xiao Quanlan , Wang Huaiyu , Wang Qu‐Quan , Zhang Han , Chu Paul K.
Published: June 2016

Poly(vinylpyrrolidone)‐encapsulated Bi2Se3 nanosheets with a thickness of 1.7 nm and diameter of 31.4 nm are prepared by a solution method. Possessing an extinction coefficient of 11.5 L g−1 cm−1 at 808 nm, the ultrathin Bi2Se3 nanosheets boast a high photothermal conversion efficiency of 34.6% and excellent photoacoustic performance. After systemic administration, the Bi2Se3 nanosheets with the proper size and surface properties accumulate passively in tumors enabling efficient photoacoustic imaging of the entire tumors to facilitate photothermal cancer therapy. In vivo biodistribution studies reveal that they are expelled from the body efficiently after 30 d. The ultrathin Bi2Se3 nanosheets have large clinical potential as metabolizable near‐infrared‐triggered theranostic agents.
Fibrinogen Induces RUNX2 Activity and Osteogenic Development from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Kidwai Fahad , Edwards Jessica , Zou Li , Kaufman Dan S.
Published: June 2016

Pluripotent stem cells, both human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), provide an important resource to produce specialized cells such as osteogenic cells for therapeutic applications such as repair or replacement of injured, diseased or damaged bone. hESCs and iPSCs can also be used to better define basic cellular and genetic mechanisms that regulate the earliest stages of human bone development. However, current strategies to mediate osteogenic differentiation of hESC and iPSC are typically limited by the use of xenogeneic components such as fetal bovine serum (FBS) that make defining specific agents that mediate human osteogenesis difficult. Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) is a key regulator required for osteogenic differentiation. Here, we used a RUNX2-YFP reporter system to characterize the novel ability of fibrinogen to mediate human osteogenic development from hESC and iPSC in defined (serum-free) conditions. These studies demonstrate that fibrinogen mediates significant osteo-induction potential. Specifically, fibrinogen binds to the surface integrin (α9β1) to mediate RUNX2 gene expression through the SMAD1/5/8 signaling pathway. Additional studies characterize the fibrinogen-induced hESC/iPSC-derived osteogenic cells to demonstrate these osteogenic cells retain the capacity to express typical mature osteoblastic markers. Together, these studies define a novel fibrinogen-α9β1-SMAD1/5/8-RUNX2 signaling axis can efficiently induce osteogenic differentiation from hESCs and iPSCs. Stem Cells  2016;34:2079–2089
Improved Mobilization of Exogenous Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Bone for Fracture Healing and Sex Difference
Authors: Yao Wei , Lay Yu-An Evan , Kot Alexander , Liu Ruiwu , Zhang Hongliang , Chen Haiyan , Lam Kit , Lane Nancy E.
Published: June 2016

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation has been tested in animal and clinical fracture studies. We have developed a bone-seeking compound, LLP2A-Alendronate (LLP2A-Ale) that augments MSC homing to bone. The purpose of this study was to determine whether treatment with LLP2A-Ale or a combination of LLP2A-Ale and MSCs would accelerate bone healing in a mouse closed fracture model and if the effects are sex dependent. A right mid-femur fracture was induced in two-month-old osterix-mCherry (Osx-mCherry) male and female reporter mice. The mice were subsequently treated with placebo, LLP2A-Ale (500 μg/kg, IV), MSCs derived from wild-type female Osx-mCherry adipose tissue (ADSC, 3 x 105, IV) or ADSC + LLP2A-Ale.

In phosphate buffered saline-treated mice, females had higher systemic and surface-based bone formation than males. However, male mice formed a larger callus and had higher volumetric bone mineral density and bone strength than females. LLP2A-Ale treatment increased exogenous MSC homing to the fracture gaps, enhanced incorporation of these cells into callus formation, and stimulated endochondral bone formation. Additionally, higher engraftment of exogenous MSCs in fracture gaps seemed to contribute to overall fracture healing and improved bone strength. These effects were sex-independent.

There was a sex-difference in the rate of fracture healing. ADSC and LLP2A-Ale combination treatment was superior to on callus formation, which was independent of sex. Increased mobilization of exogenous MSCs to fracture sites accelerated endochondral bone formation and enhanced bone tissue regeneration.
CREG1 Interacts with Sec8 to Promote Cardiomyogenic Differentiation and Cell-Cell Adhesion
Authors: Liu Jie , Qi Yanmei , Li Shaohua , Hsu Shu-Chan , Saadat Siavash , Hsu June , Rahimi Saum A. , Lee Leonard Y. , Yan Chenghui , Tian Xiaoxiang , Han Yanling
Published: June 2016

Understanding the regulation of cell-cell interactions during the formation of compact myocardial structures is important for achieving true cardiac regeneration through enhancing the integration of stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes into the recipient myocardium. In this study, we found that cellular repressor of E1A-stimulated genes 1 (CREG1) is highly expressed in both embryonic and adult hearts. Gain- and loss-of-function analyses demonstrated that CREG1 is required for differentiation of mouse embryonic stem (ES) cell into cardiomyocytes and the formation of cohesive myocardium-like structures in a cell-autonomous fashion. Furthermore, CREG1 directly interacts with Sec8 of the exocyst complex, which tethers vesicles to the plasma membrane. Site-directed mutagenesis and rescue of CREG1 knockout ES cells showed that CREG1 binding to Sec8 is required for cardiomyocyte differentiation and cohesion. Mechanistically, CREG1, Sec8, and N-cadherin colocalize at intercalated discs in vivo and are enriched at cell-cell junctions in cultured cardiomyocytes. CREG1 overexpression enhances the assembly of adherens and gap junctions. By contrast, its knockout inhibits the Sec8-N-cadherin interaction and induces their degradation. These results suggest that the CREG1 binding to Sec8 enhances the assembly of intercellular junctions and promotes cardiomyogenesis.
Transforming growth factor-β-Expressing Mesenchymal Stem Cells Induce Local Tolerance in a Rat Liver Transplantation Model of Acute Rejection
Authors: Tang Jincao , Yang Renjie , Lv Ling , Yao Aihua , Pu Liyong , Yin Aihong , Li Xiangcheng , Yu Yue , Nyberg Scott L. , Wang Xuehao
Published: June 2016

Acute rejection is commonly encountered for long-term survival in liver transplant (LT) recipients and may impact their long-term survival if rejection is severe or recurrent. The aim of this study is to examine the therapeutic potential of transforming growth factor (TGF-β)-overexpressing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in inducing a local immunosuppression in liver grafts after transplantation. MSCs were transduced with a lentiviral vector expressing the human TGF-β1 gene; TGF-β1-overexpressing MSCs (designated as TGF/MSCs) were then transfused into the liver grafts via the portal vein of a rat LT model of acute rejection. Rejection severity was assessed by clinical and histologic analysis. The immunity suppression effects and mechanism of TGF/MSCs were tested, focusing on their ability to induce generation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the liver grafts. Our findings demonstrate that transfusion of TGF/MSCs prevented rejection, reduced mortality, and improved survival of rats after LT. The therapeutic effects were associated with the immunosuppressive effects of MSCs and TGF-β1. Their reciprocal effects on Tregs induction and function resulted in more CD4 + Foxp3 + Helios- induced Tregs, fewer Th17 cells, and improved immunosuppressive effects in local liver grafts. Thus, TGF/MSCs can induce a local immunosuppressive effect in liver grafts after transplantation. The immunomodulatory activity of TGF-β1 modified MSCs may be a gateway to new therapeutic approaches to prevent organ rejection in clinical transplantation.
Generation of Induced Cardiospheres via Reprogramming of Skin Fibroblasts for Myocardial Regeneration
Authors: Xu Jian-Yong , Lee Yee-Ki , Ran Xinru , Liao Song-Yan , Yang Jiayin , Au Ka-Wing , Lai Wing-Hon , Esteban Miguel A. , Tse Hung-Fat
Published: June 2016

Recent pre-clinical and clinical studies have suggested that endogenous cardiospheres (eCS) are potentially safe and effective for cardiac regeneration following myocardial infarction (MI). Nevertheless the preparation of autologous eCS requires invasive myocardial biopsy with limited yield. We describe a novel approach to generate induced cardiospheres (iCS) from adult skin fibroblasts via somatic reprogramming. After infection with Sox2, Klf4, and Oct4, iCS were generated from mouse adult skin fibroblasts treated with Gsk3β inhibitor-(2′Z,3′E)- 6-Bromoindirubin-3′-oxime and Oncostatin M. They resembled eCS, but contained a higher percentage of cells expressing Mesp1, Isl1, and Nkx2.5. They were differentiated into functional cardiomyocytes in vitro with similar electrophysiological properties, calcium transient and contractile function to eCS and mouse embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Transplantation of iCS (1 × 106 cells) into mouse myocardium following MI had similar effects to transplantation of eCS but significantly better than saline or fibroblast in improving left ventricular ejection fraction, increasing anterior/septal ventricular wall thickness and capillary density in the infarcted region 4 weeks after transplantation. No tumor formation was observed. iCS generated from adult skin fibroblasts by somatic reprogramming and a cocktail of Gsk3β inhibitor-6-Bromoindirubin-3′-oxime and Oncostatin M may represent a novel source for cell therapy in MI.
Inhibition of lncRNA MIR31HG Promotes Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Jin Chanyuan , Jia Lingfei , Huang Yiping , Zheng Yunfei , Du Ning , Liu Yunsong , Zhou Yongsheng
Published: June 2016

Osteogenic differentiation and bone formation is suppressed under condition of inflammation induced by proinflammation cytokines. A number of studies indicate miRNAs play a significant role in tumor necrosis factor-α-induced inhibition of bone formation, but whether long non-coding RNAs are also involved in this process remains unknown. In this study, we evaluated the role of MIR31HG in osteogenesis of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) in vitro and in vivo. The results suggested that knockdown of MIR31HG not only significantly promoted osteogenic differentiation, but also dramatically overcame the inflammation-induced inhibition of osteogenesis in hASCs. Mechanistically, we found MIR31HG regulated bone formation and inflammation via interacting with NF-κB. The p65 subunit bound to the MIR31HG promoter and promoted MIR31HG expression. In turn, MIR31HG directly interacted with IκBα and participated in NF-κB activation, which builds a regulatory circuitry with NF-κB. Targeting this MIR31HG–NF-κB regulatory loop may be helpful to improve the osteogenic capacity of hASCs under inflammatory microenvironment in bone tissue engineering.
Correcting Behaviors and Policing Emotions: How Behavioral Infractions Become Feeling‐Rule Violations
Authors: Cox Amanda Barrett
Published: June 2016

This study examines interactions surrounding the transmission, enforcement, and assessment of compliance with feeling rules. Using ethnographic data, I investigate how actors within an organization that prepares low‐income black and Latino students to attend elite boarding schools serve as both emotional socializers, transmitting particular feeling rules, and emotional gatekeepers, enforcing and assessing compliance with those rules. I find that it was the interactional process surrounding rule reminders—rather than differences in students' behavioral infractions or in the feeling rules themselves—that was most consequential in shaping evaluations of students' compliance with the program's feeling rules. Gendered patterns in these interactions often resulted in male students being treated as behaviorally deviant and female students being treated as emotionally deviant.
Quidditism and the Resemblance of Properties
Authors: Guigon Ghislain ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: June 2016

It is widely agreed that properties play causal roles: they capture the causal powers of things. But do properties have their causal roles essentially? David Lewis did not think so. He adhered to the doctrine of quidditism, namely the doctrine that the identity of properties is primitive and that they can trade their causal roles. Quidditism is controversial. But Lewis did not see why he should want to reject it. He knew that he could avoid quidditism on the cheap by treating individuals and properties alike in rejecting transworld multilocation of properties and endorsing a counterpart theory for properties. But he did not see why he should want to do so. In this article, I argue that Lewis should have wanted to endorse a counterpart theory for properties in order to reject quidditism. My argument concerns resemblance relations among properties. Another constitutive role of properties is that they capture objective resemblances between their instances. The premises of my argument are intuitive claims about resemblances among some properties that Lewis held on Humean grounds.
Thermal stability and flammability of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers in presence of nanoclay and a halogen‐free flame retardant
Authors: Entezam Mehdi , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Jafari Seyed Mohammad Ali , Raji Said , Otadi Maryam
Published: June 2016

In this study, thermal stability behavior and flammability of ethylene‐vinyl‐acetate (EVA) copolymers containing organo‐modified nanoclay particles (Cloisite 15A) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) along with pentaerythritol (PER), as halogen‐free flame retardants, were investigated. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) were employed for evaluation of the level of dispersion of nanosheets within the EVA matrix. Moreover, thermal stability behavior and flammability of the samples were studied using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), cone calorimetry thermometer (CCT) and limiting oxygen index (LOI). The obtained results from TEM and SAXS showed that nanosheets exhibited a rather proper level of dispersion within the EVA matrix. According to TGA and CCT results, despite improving the thermal stability and flame retardancy of EVA due to incorporation of the individual additives, a considerable synergistic effect was observed upon simultaneous use of clay nanosheets and the flame retardants. Such synergistic effect was explained by the physical mechanism of the solid phase due to the increased residual ash resulted from combustion of the samples containing flame retardants and clay nanosheets. While clay nanosheets had no significant effect on the LOI of EVA, the halogen‐free flame retardants substantially increased the LOI of EVA. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 23:E92–E98, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Study on rheological behavior of vinyl ester resin during thickening
Authors: Liu Wenbo , Jiao Weiwei , Yang Fan , Wang Rongguo , Li Lizhi , Jiao Weicheng
Published: June 2016

With excellent mechanical property, thickening and curing performance, vinyl ester resin (VE) has been widely used as a resin matrix of sheet molding compound (SMC). The rheological behavior of vinyl ester resin during thickening process was investigated by rotational rheometer. It showed that the initiator affected the rheological behaviors of the resin significantly, which should be inhibited by rapid thickening rate. By introducing the gel point for thickening process, the optimization principle of thickener was established. Both single thickeners cannot meet the thickening requirement considering their thickening mechanisms which were confirmed by Fourier infrared spectrometer (FTIR). Complex thickener was proposed with its optimal ratio determined as 1.2% MgO to 3.0% TDI by the optimization principle. It was demonstrated that complex thickening system had excellent performance in thickening and antithickening behaviors as well as extended storage life of more than 60 days. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:239–247, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Automation and human expertise in operational river forecasting
Authors: Pagano Thomas C. , Pappenberger Florian , Wood Andrew W. , Ramos Maria‐Helena , Persson Anders , Anderson Brett
Published: June 2016

Increased automation and use of computer‐aided decision support systems are attractive options for hydrologic forecasting agencies faced with growing product complexity and institutional resourcing pressures. Although the hydrologic literature has been nearly silent on the roles of expertise and automation in forecasting, other disciplines such as meteorology have had decades of open discussion on the topic. To address the lack of dialogue in hydrology on automation, this article seeks to contextualize relevant findings from similar disciplines, including meteorology, psychology, decision support systems, and interface design. We predict which aspects of operational hydrology have the greatest chance for successfully increasing automation in the near future. Some applications have employed higher levels of automation, notably flash flood forecasting which requires rapid response times, and extended prediction which requires heavy emphasis on uncertainty quantification. Short‐range flood forecasting may be more challenging to automate and traditionally has been less automated than other types of forecasts, partly because of existing practices of interfacing with meteorologists and water system operators, and the difficulties in modeling human impacts on the water cycle. Overall, we suggest that the design of computer‐aided decision support systems for forecasting systems should consider three factors: (1) processes change under automation and people may require new roles; (2) automation changes the way people behave, sometimes negatively; and (3) people may not have accurate perceptions of the quality of the automated guidance. Seven lessons learned from automation in meteorology are highlighted and translated into a hydrologic forecasting context, leading to a set of recommendations for how to make best use of expertise in increasingly automated systems. WIREs Water 2016, 3:692–705. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1163

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Methods

Science of Water > Water Extremes
A novel social contact graph‐based routing strategy for workload and throughput fairness in delay tolerant networks
Authors: Le Tuan , Kalantarian Haik , Gerla Mario
Published: June 2016

Delay‐tolerant networks are sparse mobile ad hoc networks in which there is typically no complete path between the source and destination. Although many routing schemes for delay‐tolerant networks have been proposed, they do not address fairness issues in terms of the workload/traffic handled at each node and the share of throughput among different destination nodes. In this paper, we propose a socially aware routing strategy that optimizes both fairness and throughput. A relay node is selected based on the multi‐hop delivery probability and its queue length. The effect of queue length control is to divert traffic away from highly connected nodes and allows nodes to explore less‐congested paths to the destination. This helps balance the network loads, thus achieving workload fairness. Furthermore, to achieve throughput fairness, we sort arriving messages into different destination‐based queues. Messages are then scheduled following a two‐level forwarding strategy that optimizes throughput fairness using round‐robin and delivery ratio using priority scheduling. Extensive real‐trace‐driven simulation results show that our scheme outperforms existing algorithms in terms of the delivery ratio. Furthermore, our scheme achieves a high throughput fairness, while distributing the network loads more evenly, with the top 10% of network nodes handling only 22% of the forwardings. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Where are we in the study of animal emotions?
Authors: de Vere Amber J. , Kuczaj Stan A.
Published: June 2016

The study of emotion is rife with debate over issues as fundamental as how to define emotion, and such disputes are particularly common in the nonhuman animal emotion literature. Here, we seek to address some of these issues, especially in terms of how they relate to animal research. Definitional issues are prevalent; clear definitions are often not given of crucial terms, including ‘emotion,’ and even where provided, such terms may be used inconsistently throughout a single paper. Further disagreement over the structure of emotions, and the nature of conscious experiences involved, leads to consistent differences in authors’ criteria for emotions. We concur with those who believe that animals experience emotions and believe that animal emotions should be studied in their own right, not only as they compare to those of humans. We also propose several avenues for future research that we believe will further our understanding of animal emotions. First, the use of multiple measurement methods to assess emotional responses is most likely to provide the information necessary to distinguish between various states and opens the field to more research in harder‐to‐study species, such as marine mammals. Second, researchers should also endeavor to increase the range of emotions studied, particularly positive ones, in order to move toward a more balanced range of studied states. Finally, we believe that several aspects of personality research would prove beneficial to the study of animal emotions, particularly the distinction between trait and state emotion and the use of the rating method. WIREs Cogn Sci 2016, 7:354–362. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1399

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Comparative Psychology

Psychology > Emotion and Motivation
Verifying the Blade Element Momentum Method in unsteady, radially varied, axisymmetric loading using a vortex ring model
Authors: Yu Wei , Ferreira Carlos Simao , van Kuik Gijs , Baldacchino Daniel
Published: June 2016

Although the Blade Element Momentum method has been derived for the steady conditions, it is used for unsteady conditions by using corrections of engineering dynamic inflow models. Its applicability in these cases is not yet fully verified. In this paper, the validity of the assumptions of quasi‐steady state and annuli independence of the blade element momentum theory for unsteady, radially varied, axi‐symmetric load cases is investigated. Firstly, a free wake model that combines a vortex ring model with a semi‐infinite cylindrical vortex tube was developed and applied to an actuator disc in three load cases: (i) steady uniform and radially varied, (ii) two types of unsteady uniform load and (iii) unsteady radially varied load. Results from the three cases were compared with Momentum Theory and also with two widely used engineering dynamic inflow models—the Pitt‐Peters and the Øye for the unsteady load cases. For unsteady load, the free wake vortex ring model predicts different hysteresis loops of the velocity at the disc or local annuli, and different aerodynamic work from the engineering dynamic inflow models. Given that the free wake vortex ring model is more physically representative, the results indicate that the engineering dynamic inflow models should be improved for unsteady loaded rotor, especially for radially varied unsteady loads. © 2016 The Authors. Wind Energy Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The reverse control of irreversible biological processes
Authors: Cho Kwang‐Hyun , Joo Jae Il , Shin Dongkwan , Kim Dongsan , Park Sang‐Min
Published: June 2016

Most biological processes have been considered to be irreversible for a long time, but some recent studies have shown the possibility of their reversion at a cellular level. How can we then understand the reversion of such biological processes? We introduce a unified conceptual framework based on the attractor landscape, a molecular phase portrait describing the dynamics of a molecular regulatory network, and the phenotype landscape, a map of phenotypes determined by the steady states of particular output molecules in the attractor landscape. In this framework, irreversible processes involve reshaping of the phenotype landscape, and the landscape reshaping causes the irreversibility of processes. We suggest reverse control by network rewiring which changes network dynamics with constant perturbation, resulting in the restoration of the original phenotype landscape. The proposed framework provides a conceptual basis for the reverse control of irreversible biological processes through network rewiring. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2016, 8:366–377. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1346

This article is categorized under:

Biological Mechanisms > Regulatory Biology
Intraoperative Neuromonitoring in Thyroid Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Malik Rhea , Linos Dimitrios
Published: June 2016

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring (IONM) in preventing recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy (RLNP) during thyroid surgery. When IONM results in false positives, it seeks to evaluate contributing factors. A systematic review was conducted gauging the predictive power of neuromonitoring in determining RLN function intraoperatively, its reductions of temporary and permanent RLNP rates, and surgeons’ response to the technology. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed were searched for RLN monitoring in thyroid surgery following a set of inclusion/exclusion criteria. Seventeen studies comparing thyroid surgery with and without IONM were reviewed, including 30,926 patients. Selected studies were pooled to gage the predictive power. Mean specificity of IONM in identifying functional nerves was 90.24 % among 7366 nerves at risk (NAR). However, mean positive predictive power (PPP) was low, and both specificity and PPP varied substantially when stratified by risk levels. Among the pooled studies focusing on IONM efficacy—there were 44,575 NAR, of which (57.98 %) were operated on with IONM and 18,732 (42.02 %) without (control). The rates of overall RLNP per NAR were 3.18 and 3.83 % for the IONM group and control, respectively. There is no statistically significant difference between IONM and control, a conclusion supported by qualitative analysis from many individual studies. IONM is not recommended as the standard of care for thyroidectomies. Low PPP of IONM and complications associated with IONM‐assisted thyroidectomies may be attributed to either the absence of a standardized negative‐signal cutoff value or injury from intubation.
Biclustering Models for Two-Mode Ordinal Data
Authors: Matechou Eleni , Liu Ivy , Fernández Daniel , Farias Miguel , Gjelsvik Bergljot
Published: June 2016

The work in this paper introduces finite mixture models that can be used to simultaneously cluster the rows and columns of two-mode ordinal categorical response data, such as those resulting from Likert scale responses. We use the popular proportional odds parameterisation and propose models which provide insights into major patterns in the data. Model-fitting is performed using the EM algorithm, and a fuzzy allocation of rows and columns to corresponding clusters is obtained. The clustering ability of the models is evaluated in a simulation study and demonstrated using two real data sets.
Patterns of congenital bony spinal deformity and associated neural anomalies on X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Trenga Anthony P. , Singla Anuj , Feger Mark A. , Abel Mark F.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Congenital malformations of the bony vertebral column are often accompanied by spinal cord anomalies; these observations have been reinforced with the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We hypothesized that the incidence of cord anomalies will increase as the number and complexity of bony vertebral abnormalities increases.

Methods

All patients aged ≤13 years ( n = 75) presenting to the pediatric spine clinic from 2003−2013 with congenital bony spinal deformity and both radiographs and MRI were analyzed retrospectively for bone and neural pathology. Chi-squared analysis was used to compare groups for categorical dependent variables. Independent t tests were used for continuous dependent variables. Significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Fifty-five percent of congenital spine deformity patients ( n = 41) had associated spinal cord anomalies on MRI. Complex bony abnormalities had a higher incidence of cord anomalies than simple abnormalities (67, 37 %; p = 0.011). Mixed deformities of segmentation and formation had a higher incidence of cord anomalies (73 %) than failures of formation (50 %) or segmentation (45 %) alone ( p = 0.065). Deformities in the sacrococcygeal area had the highest rate of spinal cord anomalies (13 of 15 patients, 87 %). In 35 cases (47 %), MRI revealed additional bony anomalies that were not seen on the radiographs.

Conclusions

As the number of bony malformations increased, we found a higher incidence of cord anomalies. Clinicians should have increased suspicion of spinal cord pathology in the presence of mixed failures of segmentation and formation.
Combined sacrospinous hysteropexy and cystopexy using a single anterior incision
Authors: Petruzzelli Paolo , Chiadò Fiorio Tin Michela , Cosma Stefano , Parisi Silvia , Garofalo Anna , Todros Tullia
Published: June 2016

Objective

To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of a minimally invasive vaginal approach for treating advanced utero‐vaginal prolapse.

Methods

A prospective study enrolled consecutive patients attending the Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, Turin University for treatment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP‐Q) stage III of higher symptomatic utero‐vaginal prolapse between February 1, 2013 and November 30, 2014. Participants underwent a combined sacrospinous hysteropexy and cystopexy procedure using a single anterior vaginal incision. Surgical procedures were performed by one of two surgeons, either an experienced senior surgeon or a resident surgeon under supervision. POP‐Q staging, patient symptoms, and quality of life were evaluated before and after surgery.

Results

The present study enrolled 42 patients and 19 (45%) were discharged on the first post‐operative day. The mean operating time was 40.5 ± 10.6 minutes and there was no significant difference in operating time between the two surgeons. With an average follow‐up duration of 13 months, significant post‐surgical improvements were recorded across both POP‐Q anterior (P < 0.001) and apical (P < 0.001) domains, and in both prolapse impact (P < 0.001) and urinary impact (P = 0.001) quality‐of‐life measures; one apical recurrence and no major complications were recorded.

Conclusions

Combined sacrospinous hysteropexy and cystopexy through a single incision appears to be a safe and efficacious procedure that was relatively easy for surgeons to learn and resulted in a fast post‐surgical recovery.
Becoming-American: Experiencing the Nation through LGBT Fabulation in a Ninth Grade U.S. History Class
Authors: Helmsing Mark
Published: June 2016

This article considers “safe spaces” for students—in particular LGBT students—as a worthy goal for educators, but ultimately a vision for learning that can shelter and limit the kinds of ethical encounters that provide opportunities for students to engage with contested narratives, histories, and perspectives on LGBT issues. As an alternative, the article explores “spaces of becoming” that work beyond safe spaces to be more inclusive of competing and contentious perspectives on LGBT issues. To examine how spaces of becoming work, two concepts from educational theory informed by the philosophy of Gilles Deleuze—becoming and fabulation—are put to use in analyzing data from a qualitative study of a high school social studies teacher's unit on LGBT history in the United States. Examples of fabulation are highlighted to suggest how the narration of LGBT histories in two lessons of the teacher's ninth grade U.S. History course work both for and against a space of what the author terms “becoming-American” in this social studies classroom. Some implications from this study are drawn for social studies educators, namely how social studies education can push beyond awareness and visibility for LGBT persons for more radical curricular possibilities.