bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does education modify the effect of ethnicity in the expression of ideal cardiovascular health? The Baptist Health South Florida Employee Study
Authors: Ogunmoroti Oluseye , Utuama Ovie A. , Michos Erin D. , Valero‐Elizondo Javier , Okunrintemi Victor , Taleb Ziyad Ben , Bahelah Raed , Das Sankalp , Rouseff Maribeth , Parris Don , Agatston Arthur , Feldman Theodore , Veledar Emir , Maziak Wasim , Nasir Khurram
Published: July 2017

Background

Despite the progress made to decrease risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, disparities still exist. We examined how education and ethnicity interact to determine disparities in cardiovascular health (CVH) as defined by the American Heart Association.

Hypothesis

Education modifies the effect of ethnicity on CVH.

Methods

Individual CVH metrics (smoking, physical activity, body mass index, diet, total cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood glucose) were defined as ideal, intermediate, or poor. Combined scores were categorized as inadequate, average, or optimal CVH. Education was categorized as postgraduate, college, some college, and high school or less; ethnicity was categorized as white, Hispanic, black, and other. Main and interactive associations between education, ethnicity, and the measures of CVH were calculated with multinomial logistic regression.

Results

Of 9056 study participants, 74% were women, and mean age was 43 (±12) years. Over half were Hispanic, and two‐thirds had at least a college education. With postgraduate education category as the reference, participants with less than a college education were less likely to achieve ideal status for most of the individual CVH metrics, and also less likely to achieve 6 to 7 ideal metrics, and optimal CVH scores. In most of the educational categories, Hispanic participants had the highest proportion with optimal CVH scores and 6 to 7 ideal metrics, whereas black participants had the lowest proportion. However, there were no statistically significant interactions of education and ethnicity for ideal CVH measures.

Conclusions

Higher educational attainment had variable associations with achieved levels of ideal CVH across race/ethnic groups. Interventions to improve CVH should be tailored to meet the needs of target communities.
1D Genome Sequencing on the Oxford Nanopore MinION
Authors: Goodwin Sara , Wappel Robert , McCombie W. Richard
Published: July 2017

Today's short‐read sequencing instruments can generate read lengths between 50 bp and 700 bp depending on the specific instrument. These high‐throughput sequencing approaches have revolutionized genomic science, allowing hundreds of thousands of full genomes to be sequenced, and have become indispensable tools for many researchers. With greater insight has come the revelation that many genomes are much more complicated than originally thought and include many rearrangements and copy‐number variations. Unfortunately, short‐read sequencing technologies are not well suited for identifying many of these types of events. Long‐read sequencing technologies can read contiguous fragments of DNA in excess of 10 kb and are much better suited for detecting large structural events. The newest long‐read sequencing instrument is the MinION device from Oxford Nanopore. The rapid sequencing speed and low upfront instrument cost are features drawing interest in this device from the genomics community. This unit provides a representative protocol for carrying out human genome sequencing on the Oxford Nanopore MinION. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Tuning the Optical Properties of Phenanthriplatin: Towards New Photoactivatable Analogues
Authors: Cerón‐Carrasco José Pedro , Jacquemin Denis
Published: July 2017

The activity of traditional bifunctional platinum‐based drugs is based on a double binding attack of DNA strands that eventually damages the genetic code. Unfortunately, such therapy comes with severe side effects, which drastically limit its efficiency and more importantly, its large‐scale applicability. One emerging alternative is the use of monofunctional platinum complexes based on phenanthriplatin, a new molecule that develops a potent toxicity in tumorous cells by reacting with one DNA base only. Herein, we use theoretical tools to assess the optical properties of phenanthriplatin as well as a series of analogues in an effort to pave the way to their use in photoactivated chemotherapy. In a first step, the absorption signatures of both isolated and DNA‐embedded drugs are predicted through ab initio calculations. Two nitro derivatives are shown to activate a charge transfer from the DNA to the drug and might consequently initiate a cascade of photodamage events. In a second step, we performed molecular dynamics simulations that reveal that such structural change is enough to perturb the DNA‐binding mode. The biological implications of these results in the framework of the design of novel photoactivatable drugs are discussed.
Molecular Dyads and Triads Based on Phenothiazine and π‐Extended Tetrathiafulvalene Donors, Bis(terpyridine)ruthenium(II) Complexes, and Polyoxometalates
Authors: Barthelmes Kevin , Sittig Maria , Winter Andreas , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: July 2017

Molecular dyads were prepared by the functionalization of organic electron‐donor units, that is, a phenothiazine (PTZ) moiety and a π‐extended tetrathiafulvalene (exTTF) moiety, with bis(terpyridine)RuII complexes. In addition, the complexes were equipped with a terminal alkyne group, which was used for the coupling with a Keggin‐type polyoxometalate (POM). In this regard, molecular triads were prepared, whereby the central RuII complex should act as a photosensitizer and the POM as an electron acceptor. Certain spectral changes were observed upon attachment of the donors and the POM framework to the RuII complexes. In particular, the emission of the RuII complex became significantly reduced with increasing donor strength, which suggested an intramolecular electron transfer by reductive emission quenching. The introduction of the POM framework revealed no further quenching of the emission and is tentatively ascribed to the minor influence of the electron acceptor on the excited states of the RuII complex.
Quinoidal 2,2′,6,6′‐Tetraphenyl‐Dipyranylidene as a Dopant‐Free Hole‐Transport Material for Stable and Cost‐Effective Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shen Chao , Courté Marc , Krishna Anurag , Tang Shasha , Fichou Denis
Published: July 2017

We report on the use of 2,2′,6,6′‐tetraphenyldipyranylidene (DIPO‐Ph4), a large quinoidal planar π‐conjugated heterocycle, as a simple, easy‐to‐synthetize, and efficient dopant‐free hole‐transport material in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). PSCs using pristine DIPO‐Ph4 show photon conversion efficiencies up to 10.1 %, which is higher than a PSC utilizing dopant‐free spiro‐OMeTAD (5.1 %). DIPO‐Ph4‐based PSCs exhibit a short‐circuit current density of 19.52 mA cm−2 and an open‐circuit voltage of 0.933 V, values that are superior to dopant‐free spiro‐OMeTAD and comparable to doped spiro‐OMeTAD. These better performances find their origin in a higher HOMO level (−4.74 eV) and a much higher hole mobility (2×10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1). Finally, PSCs based on DIPO‐Ph4 possess a superior stability compared to doped‐spiro‐OMeTAD‐based devices when tested over 600 h.
A Readiness Ruler for Assessing Motivation to Change in People with Eating Disorders
Authors: St‐Hilaire Annie , Axelrod Kaitlyn , Geller Josie , Mazanek Antunes Juliana , Steiger Howard
Published: July 2017

Objective

We examined the psychometric properties of the Eating Disorder Readiness Ruler a simple self‐report instrument designed to enable rapid assessment of readiness to change problematic eating behaviours in people with clinical eating disorders.

Method

We administered the ED‐RR, the Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire and a measure of autonomous and controlled motivation for change to 206 individuals receiving outpatient treatment for an eating disorder.

Results

A principal axis factoring analysis of the ED‐RR yielded a significant two‐factor solution (explaining 59% of variance)—one factor pertaining to restriction and body image preoccupation (four items), the other to binge‐eating and vomiting symptoms (two items). The ED‐RR showed good internal consistency (alpha coefficients for the two factors being .77 and .84 respectively). Furthermore, individuals reporting higher readiness showed higher scores on independent measures of autonomous motivation and greater symptom reductions over time.

Discussion

Results suggest that the ED‐RR is a psychometrically sound tool with potential clinical utility. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Rainfall interception by tree crown and leaf litter: An interactive process
Authors: Li Xiang , Xiao Qingfu , Niu Jianzhi , Dymond Salli , McPherson E. Gregory , van Doorn Natalie , Yu Xinxiao , Xie Baoyuan , Zhang Kebin , Li Jiao
Published: July 2017

Rainfall interception research in forest ecosystems usually focuses on interception by either tree crown or leaf litter, although the 2 components interact when rainfall occurs. A process‐based study was conducted to jointly measure rainfall interception by crown and litter and the interaction between the 2 interception processes for 4 tree species (Platycladus orientalis and Pinus tabulaeformis represented needle‐leaf species, and Quercus variabilis and Acer truncatum represented broadleaf species) at 3 simulated rainfall intensities (10, 50, and 100 mm hr−1). Results indicated that (a) crown and litter interception processes incorporated 3 phases: the dampening phase, the steady saturation phase, and the postrainfall drainage phase, but the dampening phase for litter interception usually lasted 30 min longer than for crown interception; (b) the maximum and minimum interception storage (Cmax and Cmin) for the crown were 0.63 and 0.36 mm on average, and litter Cmax and Cmin were 5.38 and 2.36 mm, respectively; (c) generally, crown and litter Cmax and Cmin increased when gross precipitation increased significantly (p < .05) from 10 to 100 mm; and (4) crown Cmax and Cmin for needle‐species were 1.8 and 1.2 times larger than broadleaf species, whereas broadleaf litter showed the opposite, its Cmax and Cmin were 2.0 and 1.6 times larger than needle‐leaf litter on average; however, no significant differences were observed in crown and litter Cmax and Cmin between species on per leaf area and litter thickness basis. Results were normalized by total leaf area and litter thickness to provide a way to scale up from young trees to mature forests. Overall, rainfall interception was affected by biotic and abiotic factors together and could be quantified via multiple linear regression functions.
Iron Complexes with Chiral N/P Macrocycles as Catalysts for Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation
Authors: Mezzetti Antonio
Published: July 2017

The present account describes the development of chiral, C2‐symmetric N/P macrocyclic ligands that attune to the size and electronic properties of the iron(II) ion to give robust complexes under catalysis conditions. This is not trivial, as the complexes of base metals are substantially less stable than those of precious metals. Also, as these N2P2 macrocycles feature stereogenic P atoms, the control of the stereochemistry at phosphorus is a key synthetic issue. Still, as the macrocyclic effect was insufficient to give robust catalysts under hydrogen transfer conditions, we had to dig deeper into the toolbox of coordination chemistry and use strong‐field ancillary ligands other than CO, specifically isonitriles, which additionally offer a further handle to tune the catalyst. The reward was the discovery of the first iron(II) catalyst for the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of polar double bonds that is highly enantioselective for a broad scope of substrates.
Diagnostic Assessment Approach for Formulating a Modernization Strategy for Small‐Scale National Irrigation Systems in the Philippines
Authors: Delos Reyes Mona Liza , Schultz Bart , Prasad Krishna
Published: July 2017

The utility of a logic design framework and the diagnostic tools of the mapping system and services for canal operation techniques (MASSCOTE) were tested in two small‐scale national irrigation systems (NIS) with an end view of developing a diagnostic assessment methodology that would be relevant to planning for small‐scale irrigation systems modernization. The applicability of the water‐related rapid appraisal procedure (RAP) external indicators and structures sensitivity assessment as diagnostic tools was limited by the lack of flow data and the infeasibility of field experiments due to tight rotational irrigation schedules and laissez‐faire direct offtakes. The discharge–head relations, the hydraulic flexibility concept and the findings from walkthroughs and interviews were pragmatic alternatives. The results of the study show that inconsistency in the system designs and lack of, or poorly performing, flow control structures are the main factors contributing to mediocre irrigation service. The combination of diagnostic techniques and analytical tools used in this study present a useful framework for system diagnosis in small and ungauged irrigation systems. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of BAG3 levels in healthy subjects, hypertensive patients, and hypertensive diabetic patients
Authors: Derosa Giuseppe , Maffioli Pamela , Rosati Alessandra , M De Marco , Basile Anna , D'Angelo Angela , Romano Davide , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Falco Antonia , Turco Maria C.
Published: July 2017

BAG3 is a member of human BAG (Bcl‐2‐associated athanogene) proteins and plays a role in apoptosis, cell adhesion, cytoskeleton remodeling, and autophagy. The aim of this study was to evaluate BAG3 levels in healthy subjects, hypertensive patients, and hypertensive diabetic patients. We enrolled 209 Caucasian adults, of both sex, 18–75 years of age, 77 were healthy controls, 62 were affected by hypertension, and 70 were affected by hypertension and type 2 diabetes. All patients underwent an assessment that included medical history, physical examination, vital signs, a 12‐lead electrocardiogram, measurements of systolic (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), triglycerides (TG), transaminases, high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (Hs‐CRP), and BAG3. We observed higher blood pressure values in hypertensive, and hypertensive diabetic patients compared to controls. As expected, FPG and HbA1c were higher in diabetic hypertensive patients, compared to the other two groups. No Tg levels differences were recorded among the three groups. Hs‐CRP was higher in diabetic hypertensive patients compared to healthy subjects. Finally, BAG3 levels were higher in hypertensives, and hypertensive diabetic patients compared to controls. We observed higher levels of BAG3 in hypertensive patients compared to healthy controls, and even higher levels in hypertensive diabetic patients compared to healthy subjects. This paper could be the first of a long way to identify potential involvement of deregulated BAG3 levels in cardiometabolic diseases.
Intrastriatal administration of botulinum neurotoxin A normalizes striatal D2R binding and reduces striatal D1R binding in male hemiparkinsonian rats
Authors: Wedekind Franziska , Oskamp Angela , Lang Markus , Hawlitschka Alexander , Zilles Karl , Wree Andreas , Bauer Andreas
Published: July 2017

Cerebral administration of botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT‐A) has been shown to improve disease‐specific motor behavior in a rat model of Parkinson disease (PD). Since the dopaminergic system of the basal ganglia fundamentally contributes to motor function, we investigated the impact of BoNT‐A on striatal dopamine receptor expression using in vitro and in vivo imaging techniques (positron emission tomography and quantitative autoradiography, respectively). Seventeen male Wistar rats were unilaterally lesioned with 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) and assigned to two treatment groups 7 weeks later: 10 rats were treated ipsilaterally with an intrastriatal injection of 1 ng BoNT‐A, while the others received vehicle (n = 7). All animals were tested for asymmetric motor behavior (apomorphine‐induced rotations and forelimb usage) and for striatal expression of dopamine receptors and transporters (D1R, D2R, and DAT). The striatal D2R availability was also quantified longitudinally (1.5, 3, and 5 months after intervention) in 5 animals per treatment group. The 6‐OHDA lesion alone induced a unilateral PD‐like phenotype and a 13% increase of striatal D2R. BoNT‐A treatment reduced the asymmetry in both apomorphine‐induced rotational behavior and D2R expression, with the latter returning to normal values 5 months after intervention. D1R expression was significantly reduced, while DAT concentrations showed no alteration. Independent of the treatment, higher interhemispheric symmetry in raclopride binding to D2R was generally associated with reduced forelimb akinesia. Our findings indicate that striatal BoNT‐A treatment diminishes motor impairment and induces changes in D1 and D2 binding site density in the 6‐OHDA rat model of PD.
Mitochondrial dysfunction is an acute response of articular chondrocytes to mechanical injury
Authors: Delco Michelle L. , Bonnevie Edward D. , Bonassar Lawrence J. , Fortier Lisa A.
Published: July 2017

Mitochondrial (MT) dysfunction is known to occur in chondrocytes isolated from end‐stage osteoarthritis (OA) patients, but the role of MT dysfunction in the initiation and early pathogenesis of post‐traumatic OA (PTOA) remains unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate chondrocyte MT function immediately following mechanical injury in cartilage, and to determine if the response to injury differed between a weight bearing region (medial femoral condyle; MFC) and a non‐weight bearing region (distal patellofemoral groove; PFG) of the same joint. Cartilage was harvested from the MFC and PFG of 10 neonatal bovids, and subjected to injurious compression at varying magnitudes (5‐17 MPa, 5‐34 GPa/s) using a rapid single‐impact model. Chondrocyte MT respiratory function, MT membrane polarity, chondrocyte viability, and cell membrane damage were assessed in situ. Cartilage impact resulted in MT depolarization and impaired MT respiratory function within 2 h of injury. Cartilage from a non‐weight bearing region of the joint (PFG) was more sensitive to impact‐induced MT dysfunction and chondrocyte death than cartilage from a weight‐bearing surface (MFC). Our findings suggest that MT dysfunction is an acute response of chondrocytes to cartilage injury, and that MT may play a key mechanobiological role in the initiation and early pathogenesis of PTOA. Clinical significance: Direct therapeutic targeting of MT function in the early post‐injury time frame may provide a strategy to block perpetuation of tissue damage and prevent the development of PTOA. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:739–750, 2018.
Rheology and microstructure of gels based on wheat arabinoxylans enzymatically modified in arabinose to xylose ratio
Authors: Marquez‐Escalante Jorge A , Carvajal‐Millan Elizabeth , Yadav Madhav P , Kale Madhuvanti , Rascon‐Chu Agustín , Gardea Alfonso A , Valenzuela‐Soto Elisa M , Lopez‐Franco Yolanda L , Lizardi‐Mendoza Jaime , Faulds Craig B
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

Arabinoxylans (AX) are polysaccharides consisting of a backbone of xyloses with arabinose substituents ester‐linked to ferulic acid (FA). The arabinose to xylose ratio (A/X) in AX may vary from 0.3 to 1.1. AX form covalent gels by cross‐linking of FA but physical interactions between AX chains also contribute to the network formation. The present study aimed to investigate the rheological and microstructural characteristics of gels based on AX enzymatically modified in A/X.

RESULTS

Tailored AX presented A/X ranging from 0.68 to 0.51 and formed covalent gels. Dimers of FA content and elasticity (G′) increased from 0.31 to 0.39 g kg–1 AX and from 106 to 164 Pa when the A/X in the polysaccharide decreased from 0.68 to 0.51. Atomic force microscopy images of AX gels showed a sponge‐like microstructure at A/X = 0.68, whereas, at lower values, gels presented a more compact microstructure. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of AX gels show an arrangement of different morphology, passing from an imperfect honeycomb (A/X = 0.68) to a flake‐like microstructure (A/X = 0.51).

CONCLUSION

Lower A/X values favor the aggregation of AX chains resulting in an increase in di‐FA content, which improves the rheological and microstructural characteristics of the gel formed. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Tc‐99m tilmanocept versus Tc‐99m sulfur colloid in breast cancer sentinel lymph node identification: Results from a randomized, blinded clinical trial
Authors: Unkart Jonathan T. , Hosseini Ava , Wallace Anne M.
Published: July 2017

Introduction

No prior trials have compared sentinel lymph node (SLN) identification outcomes between Tc‐99m tilmanocept (TcTM) and Tc‐99m sulfur colloid (TcSC) in breast cancer (BC).

Methods

We report on the secondary outcomes from a randomized, double‐blinded, single surgeon clinical trial comparing post‐injection site pain between TcTM and TcSC. Patients were randomized to receive a preoperative single, peritumoral intradermal injection of TcTM or TcSC. The number of total, “hot”, and blue nodes detected and removed were compared between groups.

Results

Fifty‐two (27‐TcSC and 25‐TcTM) patients were enrolled and underwent definitive surgical treatment. At least one “hot” SLN was detected in all patients. Three (5.8%) patients had a disease positive‐SLN. The total number of SLNs removed was 61 (mean 2.26 (standard deviation (SD) 0.90)) in the TcSC group and 54 (mean 2.16 (SD 0.90)) in the TcTM group, P = 0.69. The total number of “hot” nodes in the TcSC group was 1.96 (SD 0.76) compared to 2.04 (SD 0.73) in the TcTM group, P = 0.71.

Conclusions

The number of identified SLNs did not differ significantly between TcTM and TcSC. Given that no significant technical advantages exist between the two agents, surgeons should choose a radiopharmaceutical based on cost and side effect profile.
Experimental Warming Aggravates Degradation‐Induced Topsoil Drought in Alpine Meadows of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Xue Xian , You Quangang , Peng Fei , Dong Siyang , Duan Hanchen
Published: July 2017

Climatic warming is presumed to cause topsoil drought by increasing evapotranspiration and water infiltration, and by progressively inducing land degradation in alpine meadows of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau. However, how soil moisture and temperature patterns of degraded alpine meadows respond to climate warming remains unclear. A 6‐year continuous warming experiment was carried out in both degraded and undegraded alpine meadows in the source region of the Yangtze River. The goal was to identify the effects of climatic warming and land degradation on soil moisture (θ), soil surface temperature (Tsfc), and soil temperature (Ts). In the present study, land degradation significantly reduced θ by 4·5–6·1% at a depth of 0–100 cm (p < 0·001) and increased the annual mean Tsfc by 0·8 °C. Warming with an infrared heater (radiation output of 150 W m−2) significantly increased the annual mean Tsfc by 2·5 °C (p < 0·001) and significantly increased θ by 4·7% at a depth of 40–60 cm. Experimental warming in degraded land reversed the positive effects of the infrared heater and caused the yearly average θ to decrease significantly by 3·7–8·1% at a depth of 0–100 cm. Our research reveals that land degradation caused a significant water deficit near the soil surface. Experimental warming aggravated topsoil drought caused by land degradation, intensified the magnitude of degradation, and caused a positive feedback in the degraded alpine meadow ecosystem. Therefore, an immediate need exists to restore degraded alpine meadow grasslands in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau in anticipation of a warmer future. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Co‐surgeons in breast reconstructive microsurgery: What do they bring to the table?
Authors: Haddock Nicholas T. , Kayfan Samar , Pezeshk Ronnie A. , Teotia Sumeet S.
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Current research within other surgical specialties suggests that a co‐surgeon approach may reduce operative times and complications associated with complex bilateral procedures, possibly leading to improved patient and surgical outcomes. We sought to evaluate the role of the co‐surgery team and its development in free flap breast reconstruction.

Methods

A retrospective review of free‐flap breast reconstruction by two surgeons from 2011 to 2016 was conducted. We analyzed 128 patients who underwent bilateral‐DIEP breast. Surgical groups were: single‐surgeon reconstruction (SSR; 35 patients), co‐surgery where both surgeons are present for entire reconstruction (CSR‐I; 69 patients), and co‐surgery reconstruction where co‐surgeons appropriately assist in two concurrent or staggered cases (CSR‐II; 24 patients). Efficiency data collected was OR time and patient length‐of‐stay (LOS). The rate of flap‐failure, return to OR, infection, wound breakdown, seroma, hematoma, and PE/DVT were compared.

Results

Single‐surgeon reconstruction had significantly longer OR time (678 vs. 485 min, P < .0001), LOS (5 vs. 3.9 days, P < .001), higher wound occurrences of the umbilical site that required surgical correction [11.4 percent (n = 4) vs. 1.5% (n = 1); P < .043] compared to CSR‐I. Similarly, SSR had significantly longer average OR time (678 vs. 527 min P < .0001), average LOS (5 vs. 4 days, P = .0005) when compared with CSR‐II. There were no total increased patient related complications associated with co‐surgery (CSR‐I or II).

Conclusion

The addition of a co‐surgeon, even with concurrent surgery, reduces operative time, average patient LOS, and postoperative complications. This work lends a strong credence that co‐surgery model is associated with increased operative efficiency.
Heat stress in pregnant sows: Thermal responses and subsequent performance of sows and their offspring
Authors: Lucy Matthew C. , Safranski Timothy J.
Published: July 2017

Seasonal infertility is a significant problem in the swine industry, and may be influenced by photoperiod and heat stress. Heat stress during gestation in particular affects pregnancy, resulting in long‐term developmental damage to the offspring. This review summarizes what is known about how heat stress on the pregnant sow affects lactation and her offspring. Sows responded to heat stress during gestation with increased rectal temperature, respiration rate, and skin temperature, and tended to reduce their activity—which may have changed their body composition, increasing the adipose‐to‐muscle ratio. Heat stress during gestation caused temporary insulin resistance during lactation, but this metabolic state did not seem to affect health, lactation, or rebreeding performance of the sow. Heat‐stressed sows also presented with a shorter gestation period and reduced litter birth weight, although weaning weights are not affected when these sows are moved to thermoneutral conditions for lactation. The offspring of gestational heat‐stressed sows, however, possessed unique phenotypes, including elevated body temperature, greater fat deposition, and impaired gonad development. Thus, gestational heat stress may significantly impact a herd through its effects on sows and their offspring. Further work is necessary to determine the magnitude of the effects across fa cilities and breeds.
A revised model for coping with advanced cancer. Mapping concepts from a longitudinal qualitative study of patients and carers coping with advanced cancer onto Folkman and Greer's theoretical model of appraisal and coping
Authors: Roberts Diane , Calman Lynn , Large Paul , Appleton Lynda , Grande Gunn , Lloyd‐Williams Mari , Walshe Catherine
Published: July 2017

Objective

To explore whether the Folkman and Greer theoretical model of appraisal and coping reflects the processes used by people living with advanced cancer.

Methods

Interview data from a longitudinal qualitative study with people with advanced (stage 3 or 4) cancer (n = 26) were mapped onto the concepts of the Folkman and Greer theoretical model. Qualitative interviews conducted in home settings, 4‐12 weeks apart (n = 45) examined coping strategies, why people thought they were effective, and in what circumstances. Interviews were coded and analysed using techniques of constant comparison.

Results

Mapping coping strategies clearly onto the problem‐ or emotion‐focused elements of the model proved problematic. Fluctuating symptoms, deterioration over time, and uncertain timescales in advanced cancer produce multiple events simultaneously or in quick succession. This demands not only coping with a single event but also frequent repositioning, often to an earlier point in the coping process. In addition, there is substantial ongoing potential for some degree of distress rather than purely “positive emotion” as the final stage in the process is death with several points of permanent loss of capability in the interim.

Conclusions

The Folkman and Greer theoretical model is helpful in deconstructing the discrete “problem‐focused” or “emotion‐focused” coping mechanisms participants describe, but its formulation as a linear process with a single, positive, outcome is insufficiently flexible to capture the evolution of coping for people with advanced cancer.
Comparative proteomic study of early hypoxic response in the cerebral cortex of rats submitted to two different hypoxic models
Authors: Ovelleiro David , Blanco Santos , Hernández Raquel , Peinado María Ángeles
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The present study analyses and compares the cortical brain proteomic profiles of two different models of cerebral hypoxic insult in rats (HH: hypobaric hypoxia and HHI: ischemia followed by hypobaric hypoxia) in an attempt to describe the alterations of the early molecular hypoxic adaptive response underlying each one.

Experimental Design

A quantitative proteomic profile of left‐brain cortices of rats under HH, HHI, and control conditions was determined using isobaric labeling (Tandem Mass Tag™) on the protein extracts from pools of five individuals. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD004091.

Results

Altogether, 339 proteins were confidently quantified, 99 of them showing significant variations in the hypoxic conditions with respect to the control. The HHI model presents a global effect of protein downregulation while HH produces an overall increase of the protein levels. While HH mainly affecting oxidative and energetic metabolism, HHI also interferes with synaptic transmission, neurotransmitter secretion, substantia nigra development, and triggers apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

The findings obtained show an overview of protein alterations under two hypoxic models of different aetiology and provide a basis for more detailed studies in order to unravel new specific mechanisms and therapies for hypoxic pathologies.
Synthesis and Optical Properties of Fluorescent Switchable Silica Nanoparticles Covered with Copolymers Consisting of Diarylethene and Fluorene Derivatives
Authors: Shimizu Katsuya , Kobatake Seiya
Published: July 2017

Silica nanoparticles covered with random copolymers consisting of diarylethene monomer (DE) and fluorene monomer (FL) (SNP‐poly(DE‐co‐FL)) were designed and synthesized by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) copolymerization of DE and FL initiated from a RAFT agent immobilized on the surface of silica nanoparticle. SNP‐poly(DE‐co‐FL) and silica‐free polymer (poly(DE‐co‐FL)), which are soluble in tetrahydrofuran, underwent reversible photoisomerization of DE moieties upon alternating irradiation with ultraviolet and visible light. They exhibited fluorescence ON/OFF switching between fluorescence ON state of FL in the open‐ring form of DE and fluorescence OFF state by an efficient Förster/fluorescence resonance energy transfer from the excited FL not only in the same polymer chain but also in the surrounding polymer chains to the closed‐ring form of DE. Diarylethene‐fluorene dyad (DE‐FL) was synthesized to compare with fluorescence ON/OFF switching efficiencies of SNP‐poly(DE‐co‐FL) and poly(DE‐co‐FL). The closed‐ring isomers of DE in DE‐FL, poly(DE‐co‐FL), and SNP‐poly(DE‐co‐FL) were found to quench fluorescence of 0.78, 6.3, and 15.6 FL moieties, respectively. Thus, fluorescence switching efficiency of SNP‐poly(DE‐co‐FL) was 2.5 times higher than poly(DE‐co‐FL) and 20 times higher than DE‐FL. Furthermore, the closed‐ring isomer of DE in SNP‐poly(DE‐co‐FL) was found to quench 6.3 FL moieties in the same polymer chain and 9.3 FL moieties in four polymer chains in the neighborhood.
A Facile Synthesis of LaFeO3‐Based Perovskites and Their Application towards Sensing of Neurotransmitters
Authors: Vijayaraghavan Thiruvenkadam , Sivasubramanian Ramanathan , Hussain Shamima , Ashok Anuradha
Published: July 2017

Lanthanum ferrite (LaFeO3) was prepared from its oxide precursors using solid state synthesis technique. Structural analysis indicate that the synthesized perovskite is phase pure having orthorhombic crystal structure with space group Pnma (62) and cell dimensions a=5.5392 Å, b=7.8573 Å, c=5.5584 Å. Morphological studies show aggregated spherical shaped nanoparticles having orthorhombic crystal structure with an average particle size of ∼ 50 nm. The LaFeO3 modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was studied to determine its electrocatalytic activity towards dopamine oxidation. It is seen that the LaFeO3/GCE showed excellent electrocatalytic activity with a manifold increase in oxidation current compared to bare GCE. The sensing was carried out using Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV) wherefrom a detection limit of 10 nM and two linear regimes from 10 μM to 100 μM and 120 μM to 180 μM was deduced. The influence of ascorbic acid and uric acid in the sensing of dopamine was investigated. The estimation of dopamine in human blood samples were analyzed with excellent recovery values.
The Effect of Catalysis on the Parameters of the Oxidation Reaction of Biodiesel
Authors: Angilelli Karina G. , Silva Lívia R. C. , Chendynski Letícia T. , da Silva Paulo R. C. , Borsato Dionisio
Published: July 2017

Most commercial biodiesel is produced with homogeneous basic catalyst however, environmental and economically, the use of heterogeneous catalysis is potentially advantageous since they can be reused. This work aimed to evaluate the influence of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis on the oxidative stability of biodiesel by the determination of the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of the oxidation reactions. The catalyst produced with a mixture of MgO and KOH (HetA) led to the production of biodiesel with the highest reaction yield, ester content and oxidative stability. Among the oxidation reaction parameters evaluated, the catalyst HetA and sodium methoxide showed the best results in terms of activation energy and activation enthalpy values. Both catalysts produced biodiesel with good results in terms of oxidative stability, though the HetA catalyst stands out for presenting the best results and underlines the advantages of employing a heterogeneous process.
Molecular Insights into Protein‐Polyphenols Aggregation: A Dynamic and Topological Description
Authors: Petelski André N. , Pamies Silvana C. , Benítez Elisa I. , Rovaletti María M. Lataza , Sosa Gladis L.
Published: July 2017

Protein‐polyphenols interactions are of greatest interest in several fields like food technology and leather industry. Also, it is thought that these interactions are responsible for the undesired phenomenon of colloidal turbidity. However, there is sparse information about the molecular implications leading to this phenomenon. In this study, Molecular Dynamic (MD) simulations in conjunction with the analysis of the topology of the electron density are used to study protein/polyphenol interactions in a model system which consists of a ternary mixture of water, the flavonoids Catechin and Procianidin B3 and proline pentapeptides. After 50 ns of simulation, root mean square deviation, root mean square fluctuation and number of hydrogen bonds were calculated. Information about the intermolecular interactions that drive the assembly of colloidal complexes has been obtained by the analysis of the electron charge density. Results show the formation of a stable adduct, with a very complex network of conventional and non‐conventional hydrogen bonds. This study has also shown the significance of C‐H⋅⋅⋅O and C‐H⋅⋅⋅π interactions in the phenomenon of colloidal turbidity.
Immobilization of Quantum Dots on Fluorescent Graphene Oxide for Ratiometric Fluorescence Detection of Copper Ions
Authors: Zhu Houjuan , Xu Hongda , Yu Huan , Zhang Kui , Hayat Tasawar , Alsaedi Ahmed , Wang Suhua
Published: July 2017

Graphene oxide with stable fluorescence has been synthesized and utilized to support and functionalize quantum dots for dual‐emissive nanostructure construction. The two emissions from graphene oxide and quantum dots are differently and independently responsive to copper ions (Cu2+). The blue fluorescence of graphene oxide is very stable against Cu2+, whereas the red fluorescence from quantum dots can be selectively quenched, inducing the composite fluorescent color change from bright red to blue. Such a novel nanocomposite can be applied for selective and sensitive determination of Cu2+. For practical application, the graphene based nanohybrid has been immobilized in polymer film to fabricate fluorescence test strip for Cu2+. A visual detection limit of 0.1 μM for the film test strip has been estimated and shows the potential application for on‐site visual determination of Cu2+ with no need for elaborate equipment.
Synthesis of 1, 5‐ Disubstituted Tetrazole via Ugi Azide Reaction: An Asymmetric Induction Approach
Authors: Santhosh L. , Nagamangala Sagar R. , Thimmalapura Vishwanatha M. , Vommina Sureshbabu V.
Published: July 2017

The Ugi‐azide reaction of an enantiopure amino acid derived isocyanides, amino acid esters, aldehydes and TMS‐N3 in MeOH:THF solvent system at 50 °C yielded peptidomimetics comprising tetrazole as amide bond isostere. Both N‐terminal (α‐isocyanoesters) and C‐terminal isocyanides (Nβ‐Cbz‐protected amino alkyl isocyanides) have been employed to yield diversified tetrazole peptidomimetics, having the possibility of further derivatization through either N‐ or C‐terminal chain elongation. Ugi‐azide reaction is a isocyanide based multi‐component reaction (IMCR), as a result, change in amino acid derived isocyanides had given structurally diverse products of biological interest. Good yields of products were obtained after column purification and were stable for shelf storage. The products are novel and were well characterized by Mass, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectral studies. The present method offers several advantages such as one‐pot simple procedure, high yields and easy purification of products.
Iodine‐Doped Graphene with Opportune Interlayer Spacing as Superior Anode Materials for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Jie , Wu Chao , Tang Chun , Zhao Wenxi , Xu Maowen , Li Chang Ming
Published: July 2017

In this article, the iodine doped graphene (I‐RGO) materials with different interlayer spacings were prepared by a one‐pot hydrothermal method, and the direct effect of the interlayer spacing on the electrochemical properties was studied as the anode materials of lithium ion batteries for the first time. The results show that the I‐RGO0.01 anode with the optimal interlayer spacing delivers a high specific capacity of 958.1 mAh g−1 after 390 cycles at the current density of 1 A g−1. Furthermore, at the high current density of 2 and 4 A g−1, the high‐rate capacities of 525.8 and 343.1 mAh g−1 could still be achieved for the I‐RGO0.01 electrode after 1045 and 2000 cycles with the small capacity decay rates of 0.032 % and 0.024 % per cycle, respectively. The excellent electrochemical performance is mainly attributed to the expanded interlayer distance of graphene, which is capable of improving the electrode/electrolyte contact region and accelerating the difussion and surface absorption of lithium ion.
The effects of traditional, superset, and tri-set resistance training structures on perceived intensity and physiological responses
Authors: Weakley Jonathon J. S. , Till Kevin , Read Dale B. , Roe Gregory A. B. , Darrall-Jones Joshua , Phibbs Padraic J. , Jones Ben
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Investigate the acute and short-term (i.e., 24 h) effects of traditional (TRAD), superset (SS), and tri-set (TRI) resistance training protocols on perceptions of intensity and physiological responses.

Methods

Fourteen male participants completed a familiarisation session and three resistance training protocols (i.e., TRAD, SS, and TRI) in a randomised-crossover design. Rating of perceived exertion, lactate concentration ([Lac]), creatine kinase concentration ([CK]), countermovement jump (CMJ), testosterone, and cortisol concentrations was measured pre, immediately, and 24-h post the resistance training sessions with magnitude-based inferences assessing changes/differences within/between protocols.

Results

TRI reported possible to almost certainly greater efficiency and rate of perceived exertion, although session perceived load was very likely lower. SS and TRI had very likely to almost certainly greater lactate responses during the protocols, with changes in [CK] being very likely and likely increased at 24 h, respectively. At 24-h post-training, CMJ variables in the TRAD protocol had returned to baseline; however, SS and TRI were still possibly to likely reduced. Possible increases in testosterone immediately post SS and TRI protocols were reported, with SS showing possible increases at 24-h post-training. TRAD and SS showed almost certain and likely decreases in cortisol immediately post, respectively, with TRAD reporting likely decreases at 24-h post-training.

Conclusions

SS and TRI can enhance training efficiency and reduce training time. However, acute and short-term physiological responses differ between protocols. Athletes can utilise SS and TRI resistance training, but may require additional recovery post-training to minimise effects of fatigue.
Anti-pornography Narratives as Self-Fulfilling Prophecies: Religious Variation in the Effect that Pornography Viewing has on the Marital Happiness of Husbands
Authors: Thomas Jeremy N. , Alper Becka A. , Gleason Shane A.
Published: July 2017

Using a mixed methods design that compares quantitative content analysis of popular religious magazines with statistical analysis of national survey data, we show how the anti-pornography narratives that are predominant within different religious traditions can influence the effect that pornography viewing has on the marital happiness of husbands within those traditions. More specifically, we propose a causal chain that explains how meso-level anti-pornography narratives can influence micro-level pornography-effect scripts and, in turn, influence the effect that pornography viewing has on the marital happiness of husbands. We suggest, then, that this kind of causal chain can be thought of as a type of self-fulfilling prophecy. However, instead of operating exclusively at the micro-level as self-fulfilling prophecies have typically been theorized as doing, we apply the notion of the self-fulfilling prophecy to the meso-level, so that rather than just considering how individual thinking can lead to individual outcomes, we also consider how collective thinking can lead to collective outcomes.
Volatility Spillover and Time-Varying Conditional Correlation Between DDGS, Corn, and Soybean Meal Markets
Authors: Etienne Xiaoli L. , Trujillo-Barrera Andrés , Hoffman Linwood A.
Published: July 2017

We find distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS) prices to be positively correlated with both corn and soybean meal prices in the long run. However, neither corn nor soybean meal prices respond to deviations from this long-run relationship. We also identify strong time-varying dynamic conditional correlations between the markets, with the correlation between DDGS and corn strengthened after the expansion of ethanol production. There also appear to exist significant volatility spillovers from both the corn and soybean meal markets to the DDGS market, with the impact from corn shocks much larger compared to soybean meal shocks.
Models of care for traumatically injured patients at trauma centres in British Columbia: variability and sustainability
Authors: Tuyp Benjamin , Hassani Kasra , Constable Lisa , Haegert Joseph
Published: July 2017

Background

Successful trauma systems employ a network of variably-resourced hospitals, staffed by experienced providers, to deliver optimal care for injured patients. The “model of care”—the manner by which inpatients are admitted and overseen, is an important determinant of patient outcomes.

Objectives

To describe the models of inpatient trauma care at British Columbia’s (BC’s) ten adult trauma centres, their sustainability, and their compatibility with accreditation guidelines.

Methods

Questionnaires were distributed to the trauma medical directors at BC’s ten Level I-III adult trauma centres. Follow-up semi-structured interviews clarified responses.

Results

Three different models of inpatient trauma care exist within BC. The “admitting trauma service” was a multidisciplinary team providing exclusive care for injured patients. The “on-call consultant” assisted with Emergency Department (ED) resuscitation before transferring patients to a non-trauma admitting service. The single “short-stay trauma unit” employed on-call consultants who also oversaw a 48-hour short-stay ward.

Both level I trauma centres utilized the admitting trauma service model (2/2). All Level II sites employed an on-call consultant model (3/3), deviating from Level II trauma centre accreditation standards. Level III sites employed all three models in similar proportions. None of the on-call consultant sites believed their current care model was sustainable. Inadequate compensation, insufficient resources, and difficulty recruiting physicians were cited barriers to sustainability and accreditation compliance.

Conclusions

Three distinct models of care are distributed inconsistently across BC’s Level I-III trauma hospitals. Greater use of admitting trauma service and short-stay trauma unit models may improve the sustainability and accreditation compliance of our trauma system.
Environmental Surfaces in Healthcare Facilities are a Potential Source for Transmission ofCandida aurisand OtherCandidaSpecies
Authors: Piedrahita Christina T. , Cadnum Jennifer L. , Jencson Annette L. , Shaikh Aaron A. , Ghannoum Mahmoud A. , Donskey Curtis J.
Published: July 2017

Contaminated surfaces have been implicated as a potential route for dissemination of the emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogenCandida auris. In laboratory testing,C. aurisand otherCandidaspecies persisted for 7 days on moist or dry surfaces.Candidaspecies were recovered frequently from the hospital environment, particularly from moist surfaces.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2017;38:1107–1109