bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of vildagliptin and pravastatin combination on cholesterol efflux in adipocytes
Authors: Mostafa Ahmed M. , Hamdy Nadia M. , Abdel‐Rahman Sherif Z. , El‐Mesallamy Hala O. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractMany reports suggested that some statins are almost ineffective in reducing triglycerides or enhancing HDL‐C plasma levels, although statin treatment was still efficacious in reducing LDL‐C. In diabetic dyslipidemic patients, it may therefore be necessary to use a combination therapy with other drugs to achieve either LDL‐C‐ and triglyceride‐lowering or HDL‐C‐enhancing goals. Such ineffectiveness of statins can be attributed to their effect on the liver X receptor (LXR) which regulates the expression of the ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters ABCA1 and ABCG1. A decrease in the expression of these transporters eventually leads to decreased cholesterol efflux from peripheral tissues leading to low levels of HDL‐C. Although manipulating the LXR pathway may complement the effects of statins, LXR synthetic ligands as T091317 have shown significant hypertriglyceridemic action which limits their use. We recently found that the antidiabetic drug vildagliptin stimulates LXR expression leading to increased ABCB1/ABCG1 expression which improves cholesterol efflux from adipocytes. Therefore, a combination of vildagliptin and statin may provide a solution without the hypertriglyceridemic action observed with LXR agonist. We hypothesize that a combination of vildagliptin and pravastatin will improve cholesterol efflux in adipocytes. Statin‐treated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were treated with vildagliptin, and the expression of LXR‐ABCA1/ABCG1 cascade and the cholesterol efflux were then determined. Our data indicate that a combination of vildagliptin and pravastatin significantly induces the expression of LXR‐ABCA1/ABCG1 cascade and improves cholesterol efflux (P > 0.05) in adipocytes. Our data may explain, at least in part, the improvement in HDL‐C levels observed in patients receiving both medications. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 68(7):535–543, 2016
Low Lean Mass Predicts Incident Fractures Independently From FRAX: a Prospective Cohort Study of Recent Retirees
Authors: Hars Mélany , Biver Emmanuel , Chevalley Thierry , Herrmann François , Rizzoli René , Ferrari Serge , Trombetti Andrea 
Published: June 2016

ABSTRACT

Whether low muscle mass predisposes to fracture is still poorly understood. In the diagnosis of sarcopenia, different thresholds for low lean mass have been proposed but comparative data for these criteria against hard outcomes such as fractures are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of low lean mass according to different thresholds used in operational definitions of sarcopenia and their association with 3-year fracture incidence in a cohort of healthy 63- to 67-year-old community dwellers. In a longitudinal analysis of 913 participants (mean age 65.0 ± 1.4 years) enrolled in the Geneva Retirees Cohort (GERICO) study, lean mass was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and low trauma clinical fracture incidence was recorded over a 3-year period. Prevalence of low lean mass ranged from 3.5% to 20.2% according to the threshold applied. During a follow-up of 3.4 ± 0.9 years, 40 (4.4%) participants sustained at least one low trauma fracture. After multivariate adjustment including Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) probability with femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD), low lean mass, as defined by Baumgartner thresholds, was associated with higher fracture risk (odds ratio [OR], 2.32; 95% CI, 1.04 to 5.18; p = 0.040). It also added significant predictive value beyond FRAX (likelihood ratio test for nested models, 4.28; p &lt; 0.039). No significant association was found for other definition thresholds. The coexistence of sarcopenia and a T-score &lt;–2.5 at spine or hip was associated with a 3.39-fold (95% CI, 1.54 to 7.46; p = 0.002) increase in low trauma fracture risk. In conclusion, low lean mass, as defined by the Baumgartner thresholds, is a predictor of incident fractures in a large cohort of healthy 65-year-old community dwellers, independently of FRAX probability. The increased risk is related to the threshold for low lean mass selected. These findings suggest that identification of sarcopenia should be considered in fracture risk assessment beyond usual risk factors. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Numerical simulation and a parametric study of inorganic nanowire solar cells
Authors: Ali Nouran M. , Abdel Haleem Ashraf M. , Allam Nageh K. , Rafat Nadia H. 
Published: June 2016

SummaryRadial junction nanorods (nanowires) are mainly used to improve the carrier collection efficiency and accordingly the conversion efficiency of solar cells. In this work, a numerical simulator has been produced for a cylindrical p–n junction solar cell based on a finite difference discretization of semiconductor, Poisson's, drift–diffusion transport and charge continuity equations. It can be applied to estimate the photogenerated current density, open circuit voltage, fill factor and conversion efficiency of inorganic radial p–n and p–i–n junction nanowires. Additionally, the simulator can produce the spatial distribution of the carriers' densities, electric field and energy bands of the nanowires. The simulator results show a good matching with previously published ones. Finally, the simulator is used in a parametric study to optimize the geometry and the junction depth of cylindrical silicon solar cells. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exposure to Violence During Ferguson Protests: Mental Health Effects for Law Enforcement and Community Members
Authors: Galovski Tara E. , Peterson Zoë D. , Beagley Marin C. , Strasshofer David R. , Held Philip , Fletcher Thomas D. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractThere is little information available on the mental health effects of exposure to shared community violence such as the August 2014 violence that occurred in Ferguson, Missouri. This study sought to examine the relationship between proximity to community violence and mental health in both community members and police officers. We recruited 565 adults (community, n = 304, and police, n = 261) exposed to the violence in Ferguson to complete measures of proximity to violence, posttraumatic stress, depression, and anger. Using structural equation modeling, we assessed aspects of proximity to violence—connectedness, direct exposure, fear from exposure, media exposure, reactions to media, and life interruption—as correlates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depression, and anger. The final model yielded (n = 432), χ2(d = 12) = 7.4, p = .830; comparative fit index = 1.0, root mean square error of approximation = 0 [0, .04]. All aspects of proximity except direct exposure were associated with mental health outcomes. There was no moderation as a function of community versus police. Race moderated the relationship between life interruptions and negative outcomes; interruption was related to distress for White, but not Black community members. Based on group comparisons, community members reported more symptoms of PTSD and depression than law enforcement (ηp2 = .06 and .02, respectively). Black community members reported more PTSD and depression than White community members (ηp2 = .05 and .02, respectively). Overall, distress was high, and mental health interventions are likely indicated for some individuals exposed to the Ferguson events.
Identification of pigmented Serratia marcescens symbiotically associated with Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Scrascia Maria , Pazzani Carlo , Valentini Franco , Oliva Marta , Russo Valentina , D'Addabbo Pietro , Porcelli Francesco 
Published: June 2016

AbstractTo characterize red pigment‐producing bacteria (RPPB) regularly released during oviposition by red palm weevil (RPW), RPPB were recovered from eggs deposited in apples supplied as substrate for oviposition. The presence of RPPB was also detected from gut, the reproductive apparatus of dissected adult and virgin insects and from pupal cases collected within infested palms. RPPB were also identified all along the tissue of these palms. Analysis of the 16S rDNA, gyrB, rpoB, recA, and groEL sequences assigned RPPB to the species Serratia marcescens. RPPB exhibited an antimicrobial activity assessed by the agar well diffusion method against a number of gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. In this study, we first report the identification of a red pigment‐producing S. marcescens as extracellular symbiont of RPW. Route of transmission, detection within different organs, and a wide spread along the infested palm tissue, suggested S. marcescens is present as extracellular symbiont in different developmental stages of the RPW. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity exhibited versus Bacillus spp., Paenibacillus spp., and Lysinibacillus spp., reported as insect pathogens and potential candidates for biocontrol agents, could ascribe for S. marcescens a potential protective role.
The Influence of a Mexican Cultural Immersion Experience on Personal and Professional Healthcare Practices
Authors: Crowe Terry , Sanchez Victoria , Weber Allison , Murtagh Amy 
Published: June 2016

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to understand the influence of a cultural immersion experience on personal and professional healthcare practices of occupational therapists. The experience, a 10‐day course in Oaxaca, Mexico, exposed participants to alternative and complementary medicine through interactive sessions with Mexican indigenous traditional healers. The literature indicates that cultural immersion experiences can increase the perceived cultural effectiveness of healthcare professionals. Three focus groups were conducted with eight occupational therapists and two occupational therapy fieldwork students who had participated in the course. Themes were coded based on responses to each question by two graduate students and a qualitative researcher. Four major themes emerged regarding the influence of a cultural immersion experience on personal and professional healthcare practices of occupational therapists: (1) Natural Remedies; (2) Mind, Body, Spirit Connection; (3) Increased Openness; and (4) Challenges of Integrating Traditional and Western Medicine. The themes derived from this study confirmed the advantages of a cultural immersion experience on both the personal and professional views and practices of occupational therapists. Cultural immersion courses can assist occupational therapists to better understand different cultural views of health, disability and healing in order to provide quality occupational therapy care in a multicultural society. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The psychosocial experiences of breast cancer amongst Black, South Asian and White survivors: do differences exist between ethnic groups?
Authors: Patel‐Kerai Geeta , Harcourt Diana , Rumsey Nichola , Naqvi Habib , White Paul 
Published: June 2016

AbstractBackgroundVery little UK‐based research has examined breast cancer‐related experiences of Black and Minority Ethnic populations, and we do not know whether the psychosocial impact of diagnosis and treatment in this group is any different to that of White women. Therefore, this study examined similarities and differences amongst Black, South Asian and White breast cancer survivors.MethodsA quantitative, cross‐sectional survey was conducted; 173 breast cancer survivors (80 White, 53 South Asian and 40 Black) completed a questionnaire, which assessed psychological functioning, social support, body image and beliefs about cancer.ResultsSignificant differences (p < 0.05) were reported between White and South Asian participants: compared with White women, South Asian participants reported higher levels of anxiety and depression, poorer quality of life and held higher levels of internal and fatalistic beliefs pertaining to cancer. Black and South Asian women reported higher levels of body image concerns than White women, and held stronger beliefs that God was in control of their cancer. South Asian women turned to religion as a source of support more than Black and White women.ConclusionThis study enhances current understanding of the experience and impact of breast cancer amongst Black and South Asian women, and demonstrates similarities and differences between the ethnic groups. The findings highlight implications for healthcare professionals, particularly in relation to providing culturally sensitive care and support to their patients. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MSIAC – Supporting the Insensitive Munitions Community
Authors: Sharp Michael W. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractThe NATO Munitions Safety Information Analysis Center (MSIAC) is a multinational collaboration that collects, stores, and analyses technical information related to Munitions Safety (MS) and Insensitive Munitions (IM). MSIAC supports its member nations through a variety of products and services. In addition to a core responsibility of addressing technical questions related to Munitions Safety posed by members, MSIAC has a diverse programme of work aimed at developing and sharing the related underpinning scientific knowledge. This is applied to support munition safety policy development and implementation. This article provides an overview of some of the current and future areas of work which MSIAC is involved in, with a focus on IM and energetic materials.
Asynchronously compensated synchronization algorithm for multiple harmonic oscillators with communication delay
Authors: Liu Cheng‐Lin , Xie Lihua , Liu Shuai , Liu Fei 
Published: June 2016

SummarySynchronization problem is investigated for multiple harmonic oscillators with identical communication delay in this paper. We propose a new distributed control algorithm in asynchronously compensated form and a corresponding reduced‐order observer‐based distributed control algorithm. By using frequency‐domain analysis, delay‐dependent and delay‐independent convergence conditions are obtained for our proposed algorithms under leader‐following and leaderless coordination control structures, respectively, and the results can be directly extended to the observer‐based algorithm based on the separation principle. Numerical examples illustrate the validity of the theoretical findings. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypoxia and Reactive Oxygen Species Homeostasis in Mesenchymal Progenitor Cells Define a Molecular Mechanism for Fracture Nonunion
Authors: Muinos-López Emma , Ripalda-Cemboráin Purificación , López-Martínez Tania , González-Gil Ana B. , Lamo-Espinosa José M. , Valentí Andrés , Mortlock Douglas P. , Valentí Juan R. , Prósper Felipe , Granero-Moltó Froilán 
Published: June 2016

AbstractFracture nonunion is a major complication of bone fracture regeneration and repair. The molecular mechanisms that result in fracture nonunion appearance are not fully determined. We hypothesized that fracture nonunion results from the failure of hypoxia and hematoma, the primary signals in response to bone injury, to trigger Bmp2 expression by mesenchymal progenitor cells (MSCs). Using a model of nonstabilized fracture healing in transgenic 5′Bmp2BAC mice we determined that Bmp2 expression appears in close association with hypoxic tissue and hematoma during the early phases of fracture healing. In addition, BMP2 expression is induced when human periosteum explants are exposed to hypoxia ex vivo. Transient interference of hypoxia signaling in vivo with PX-12, a thioredoxin inhibitor, results in reduced Bmp2 expression, impaired fracture callus formation and atrophic-like nonunion by a HIF-1α independent mechanism. In isolated human periosteum-derived MSCs, BMP2 expression could be induced with the addition of platelets concentrate lysate but not with hypoxia treatment, confirming HIF-1α-independent BMP2 expression. Interestingly, in isolated human periosteum-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells, inhibition of BMP2 expression by PX-12 is accomplished only under hypoxic conditions seemingly through dis-regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. In conclusion, we provide evidence of a molecular mechanism of hypoxia-dependent BMP2 expression in MSCs where interference with ROS homeostasis specifies fracture nonunion-like appearance in vivo through inhibition of Bmp2 expression.
Concise Review: Application of In Vitro Transcribed Messenger RNA for Cellular Engineering and Reprogramming: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Steinle Heidrun , Behring Andreas , Schlensak Christian , Wendel Hans Peter , Avci-Adali Meltem 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Several diseases are caused by missing or defective synthesis of proteins due to genetic or acquired disorders. In recent years, in vitro transcribed (IVT) messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapy for de novo protein expression in cells has increased in importance. Thereby, desired proteins can be produced in cells by exogenous delivery of IVT mRNA, which does not integrate into the host genome and results in transient production of target proteins. Due to the lack of genomic integration, the risk of mutation and tumor development is minimized. Different approaches using IVT mRNA have been applied to alter the expression profiles of cells by the production of proteins. IVT mRNAs encoding transcription factors have led to the highly efficient induction of pluripotency in somatic cells and generated induced pluripotent stem cells that are free of viral vector components. Furthermore, specific IVT mRNA cocktails containing more than one specific IVT mRNA can be used to directly induce the differentiation into a desired cell type. In theory, every desired mRNA can be produced in vitro and used to enable extrinsic biosynthesis of target proteins in each cell type. Cells can be engineered by IVT mRNA to express antigens on dendritic cells for vaccination and tumor treatment, surface receptors on stem cells for increased homing to distinct areas, and to produce industrial grade human growth factors. In this review, we focus on the progress and challenges in mRNA-based cell engineering approaches.
Concise Review: One Stone for Multiple Birds: Generating Universally Compatible Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Zheng Dejin , Wang Xiaofang , Xu Ren-He 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
With ongoing clinical trials, human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have shown substantial potential for regenerative medicine. However, due to the mismatch of human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) between hESC-derived allografts and recipients, immunosuppressant regimens must be used to prevent immune rejection of the grafts. Considerable efforts have been devoted to overcoming this hurdle via the derivation and banking of human nuclear transfer ESCs, parthenogenetic ESCs, and induced pluripotent stem cells. However, ethical and safety concerns remain, hindering the application of these types of pluripotent cells. Other approaches have recently been explored to generate universally compatible hESCs through the silencing or deletion of HLAs or genes essential for HLA expression, including β-2-microglobulin and class-II MHC transactivator, as well as the induction of immunosuppression via the ectopic expression of non-classical HLAs (e.g., HLA-E and -G), cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 fused with immunoglobulin, and programmed death ligand-1. In this review, we introduce developments in this line of research and discuss strategies to reduce the tumorigenic concerns regarding hESCs, especially after they acquire the capability to escape immune surveillance. Stem Cells 2016;34:2269–2275
Advances in Transition‐Metal‐Catalysed Alkyne Hydroarylations
Authors: Biffis Andrea , Tubaro Cristina , Baron Marco 
Published: June 2016

AbstractWe present herein a personal account of our achievements in the development of novel catalytic systems based on late‐transition‐metal complexes for the hydroarylation of alkynes. In particular, our targets were intermolecular hydroarylation reactions with arene or heteroarene substrates devoid of directing groups. We have shown that complexes of palladium, platinum or gold with N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands can be particularly useful catalysts for this reaction; the NHC ligand imparts greater stability to the complex and renders the catalytic system more productive. Furthermore, we have identified promoters and reaction media that allow to significantly improve the catalytic activity under mild conditions, to control the reaction chemoselectivity and to steer it towards more complex products; thus making this reaction considerably more attractive for the synthetic chemist.image
Carbon Monoxide: A Mild and Efficient Reducing Agent towards Atomically Precise Gold Nanoclusters
Authors: Chen Tiankai , Xie Jianping 
Published: June 2016

AbstractIn recent years, thiolate‐protected gold nanoclusters (or thiolated Au NCs) with a core size below 2 nm have emerged as a new class of multifunctional nanoparticles because of their unique molecular‐like properties and the potential to use these properties in many practical applications. A general synthesis of Au NCs may involve the use of a strong reducing agent (e.g., sodium borohydride (NaBH4)), which often leads to the formation of mix‐sized Au NCs if no delicate control is applied. To obtain atomically precise Au NCs, additional physical or chemical selection processes (e.g., high‐resolution separation or size‐focusing) are required, which are difficult to be scaled up or are limited to only thermodynamically stable products. By introducing a milder reducing agent – carbon monoxide (CO) – both stable and metastable thiolated Au NCs, including Au10–12, Au15, Au18, Au25, and Au29, can be synthesized in a one‐pot manner. In addition, CO reduction also enables the synthesis of a highly luminescent Au22(SG)18 NC. Furthermore, the intermediates of Au NC growth can be tracked in the CO‐reduction system due to the mild and readily stoppable nature of CO reduction. Therefore, the use of CO reduction may bring new flexibilities in designing synthetic strategies and understanding the growth mechanism of atomically precise Au NCs, which could contribute to a better design of functional Au NCs, further paving their way towards practical applications in various fields.