bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of biochar on nutrient retention and nectarine tree performance: A three‐year field trial
Authors: Sorrenti Giovambattista , Ventura Maurizio , Toselli Moreno 
Published: March 2016

AbstractWe performed a series of experiments in controlled conditions to assess the potential of hardwood‐derived biochar either as a source or as a removing additive of macronutrients [nitrate‐nitrogen (NO3‐N), ammonium‐N (NH4‐N), potassium (K), phosphorus (P), and magnesium (Mg)] in solution. In addition, a 3‐year field trial was carried out in a commercial nectarine orchard to evaluate the effect of increasing soil‐applied biochar rates on tree nutritional status, yield, fruit quality, soil pH, soil NO3‐N, and NH4‐N concentration and soil water content. In controlled conditions, the concentrations of K, P, Mg, and NH4‐N in solution were significantly increased and positively correlated with biochar rates. Biochar was ineffective in removing NO3‐N, K, P, and Mg from enriched solutions, while at the rate of 40 g L−1 biochar removed almost 52% of the initial NH4‐N concentration. In a mature, irrigated, fertilized, commercial nectarine orchard (Big Top/GF677) on a sandy‐loam soil in the Italian Po Valley, soil‐applied biochar at the rates of 5, 15, and 30 t ha−1 were effective in reducing the leached amount of NH4‐N in the top 0.25 m soil layer over 13 months, as estimated by ion exchange resin lysimeters. Nevertheless, independent of the rate, biochar did not affect soil pH, soil N mineral availability, soil moisture, tree nutritional status, yield, and fruit quality. We conclude that, unless an evident constraint is identified, in non‐limiting conditions (e.g., water availability and soil fertility), potential benefits from biochar application in commercial orchards are hidden or negligible.
Importance of margin width in breast‐conserving treatment of early breast cancer
Authors: Bodilsen Anne , Bjerre Karsten , Offersen Birgitte V. , Vahl Pernille , Amby Nikolaj , Dixon J. Michael , Ejlertsen Bent , Overgaard Jens , Christiansen Peer 
Published: March 2016

Background and MethodThe association between margin width and ipsilateral breast tumour recurrence (IBTR, defined as invasive recurrence) was investigated in a population‐based nationwide cohort of 11,900 patients undergoing breast‐conserving therapy for invasive cancer.ResultsThe median follow‐up was 4.9 years. The cumulative incidence of IBTR at 5 and 9 years was 2.4% and 5.9%, respectively. A final positive margin increased the risk of IBTR (HR 2.51; 95% CI 1.02–6.23). No decrease in IBTR with a wider negative margin compared to a narrow but negative margin was observed in the adjusted analysis of margin width (>0 to <2 mm vs. ≥2 to <5 mm vs. ≥5 mm (reference): HR 1.54 (CI 95% 0.81–2.93) vs. 0.95 (CI 95% 0.56–1.62) vs. 1). However, few patients had narrow margins. The factors associated with increased IBTR were young age (P < 0.001), >4 positive lymph nodes (P = 0.008) and re‐excision (P = 0.003). A reduced risk of IBTR was observed with chemotherapy (P < 0.001), boost radiation (P = 0.023) and ER positivity (P < 0.001).ConclusionAn overall low rate of IBTR was observed. A final positive margin was associated with a more than twofold risk of IBTR. There was no evidence for better local control with wider margins, but the data were insufficient to show whether narrow margins were as good as wider negative margins in terms of local control. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:609–615. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hierarchically Mesostructured Polyisobutylene‐Based Ionic Liquids
Authors: Appiah Clement , Akbarzadeh Johanna , Stojanovic‐Marinow Anja , Peterlik Herwig , Binder Wolfgang H. 
Published: March 2016

The formation and design of a hierarchically nanostructured poly(isobutylene)‐based ionic liquid (PIB‐ILs) is reported, displaying assembly into classical multiplets and an additional ordering of the aromatic counteranions. Three PIB‐ILs (Mn = 3600 and 8600 g mol−1), bearing imidazolium (1a), N‐methylpyrrolidinium (1b), and triethylammonium cations (1c) together with the aromatic 2‐(methylthio)benzoate anion are prepared via a combination of living carbocationic polymerization, “click” reactions and subsequent anion metathesis. The morphology of the novel PIB‐ILs as well as its temperature‐dependent behavior has been studied via small angle X‐ray scattering, displaying two different transition temperatures: one originating from ordering of micelles within a cylinder, and the second from cylinder–cylinder arrangement. Furthermore, the incorporation of an aromatic, rigid, and bulky 2‐(methylthio)benzoate anion into the PIB‐ILs effects the formation of an internal assembly consisting of stacked cylindrical structures, composed from the mesoscale ordering of ionic “multiplets” characteristic for classical ionomers and from the typical distance of the cylinders themselves.
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Relearning of Writing Skills in Parkinson's Disease After Intensive Amplitude Training
Authors: Nackaerts Evelien , Heremans Elke , Vervoort Griet , Smits‐Engelsman Bouwien C.M. , Swinnen Stephan P. , Vandenberghe Wim , Bergmans Bruno , Nieuwboer Alice 
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACTBackgroundMicrographia occurs in approximately 60% of people with Parkinson's disease (PD). Although handwriting is an important task in daily life, it is not clear whether relearning and consolidation (ie the solid storage in motor memory) of this skill is possible in PD. The objective was to conduct for the first time a controlled study into the effects of intensive motor learning to improve micrographia in PD.MethodsIn this placebo‐controlled study, 38 right‐handed people with PD were randomized into 2 groups, receiving 1 of 2 equally time‐intensive training programs (30 min/day, 5 days/week for 6 weeks). The experimental group (n = 18) performed amplitude training focused at improving writing size. The placebo group (n = 20) received stretch and relaxation exercises. Participants' writing skills were assessed using a touch‐sensitive writing tablet and a pen‐and‐paper test, pre‐ and posttraining, and after a 6‐week retention period. The primary outcome was change in amplitude during several tests of consolidation: (1) transfer, using trained and untrained sequences performed with and without target zones; and (2) automatization, using single‐ and dual‐task sequences.ResultsThe group receiving amplitude training significantly improved in amplitude and variability of amplitude on the transfer and automatization task. Effect sizes varied between 7% and 17%, and these benefits were maintained after the 6‐week retention period. Moreover, there was transfer to daily life writing.ConclusionsThese results show automatization, transfer, and retention of increased writing size (diminished micrographia) after intensive amplitude training, indicating that consolidation of motor learning is possible in PD. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Linkage and related analyses of Barrett's esophagus and its associated adenocarcinomas
Authors: Sun Xiangqing , Elston Robert , Falk Gary W. , Grady William M. , Faulx Ashley , Mittal Sumeet K. , Canto Marcia I. , Shaheen Nicholas J. , Wang Jean S. , Iyer Prasad G. , Abrams Julian A. , Willis Joseph E. , Guda Kishore , Markowitz Sanford , Barnholtz‐Sloan Jill S. , Chandar Apoorva , Brock Wendy , Chak Amitabh 
Published: March 2016

AbstractBackgroundFamilial aggregation and segregation analysis studies have provided evidence of a genetic basis for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and its premalignant precursor, Barrett's esophagus (BE). We aim to demonstrate the utility of linkage analysis to identify the genomic regions that might contain the genetic variants that predispose individuals to this complex trait (BE and EAC).MethodsWe genotyped 144 individuals in 42 multiplex pedigrees chosen from 1000 singly ascertained BE/EAC pedigrees, and performed both model‐based and model‐free linkage analyses, using S.A.G.E. and other software. Segregation models were fitted, from the data on both the 42 pedigrees and the 1000 pedigrees, to determine parameters for performing model‐based linkage analysis. Model‐based and model‐free linkage analyses were conducted in two sets of pedigrees: the 42 pedigrees and a subset of 18 pedigrees with female affected members that are expected to be more genetically homogeneous. Genome‐wide associations were also tested in these families.ResultsLinkage analyses on the 42 pedigrees identified several regions consistently suggestive of linkage by different linkage analysis methods on chromosomes 2q31, 12q23, and 4p14. A linkage on 15q26 is the only consistent linkage region identified in the 18 female‐affected pedigrees, in which the linkage signal is higher than in the 42 pedigrees. Other tentative linkage signals are also reported.ConclusionOur linkage study of BE/EAC pedigrees identified linkage regions on chromosomes 2, 4, 12, and 15, with some reported associations located within our linkage peaks. Our linkage results can help prioritize association tests to delineate the genetic determinants underlying susceptibility to BE and EAC.
Punicalagin attenuates palmitate‐induced lipotoxicity in HepG2 cells by activating the Keap1‐Nrf2 antioxidant defense system
Authors: Yan Chunhong , Sun Wenyan , Wang Xun , Long Jiangang , Liu Xuebo , Feng Zhihui , Liu Jiankang 
Published: March 2016

ScopeFree fatty acids (FFA) could induce hepatocyte lipotoxicity, which plays an important role in the initiation of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Inhibition of FFA‐induced lipotoxicity is suggested as a potential treatment for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The aim of the current study is to explore the effect of punicalagin, a polyphenol abundant in pomegranate, on FFA‐induced hepatic lipotoxicity and its potential mechanisms.Methods and resultsHepG2 cells were exposed to 250 μM palmitate for 24 h with or without punicalagin pretreatment. Punicalagin pretreatment attenuated palmitate‐induced mitochondrial membrane potential lost, ATP depletion, and reactive oxygen species production. Punicalagin also increased hepatocyte viability by blocking mitochondria‐mediated caspase‐dependent apoptosis. The hepatoprotective effect was associated with an exaggerated phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase as well as significant nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation and target genes induction. Blockage of extracellular signal regulated kinase by a pharmacological inhibitor abrogated the cytoprotective effect of punicalagin and its induction of Nrf2 pathway. Knockdown of Nrf2 by specific small interfering RNA also diminished the protective effects of punicalagin, while knockdown of Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) with small interfering RNA could promote Nrf2 nuclear translocation and exert similar protection as punicalagin treatment.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that punicalagin could effectively attenuate FFA‐induced lipotoxicity by activating Keap1‐Nrf2 cytoprotective signaling pathway.
Rhubarb extract prevents hepatic inflammation induced by acute alcohol intake, an effect related to the modulation of the gut microbiota
Authors: Neyrinck Audrey M. , Etxeberria Usune , Taminiau Bernard , Daube Georges , Van Hul Matthias , Everard Amandine , Cani Patrice D. , Bindels Laure B. , Delzenne Nathalie M. 
Published: March 2016

ScopeBinge consumption of alcohol is an alarming global health problem. Acute ethanol intoxication is characterized by hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress, which could be promoted by gut barrier function alterations. In this study, we have tested the hypothesis of the hepatoprotective effect of rhubarb extract in a mouse model of binge drinking and we explored the contribution of the gut microbiota in the related metabolic effects.Methods and resultsMice were fed a control diet supplemented with or without 0.3% rhubarb extract for 17 days and were necropsied 6 h after an alcohol challenge. Supplementation with rhubarb extract changed the microbial ecosystem (assessed by 16S rDNA pyrosequencing) in favor of Akkermansia muciniphila and Parabacteroides goldsteinii. Furthermore, it improved alcohol‐induced hepatic injury, downregulated key markers of both inflammatory and oxidative stresses in the liver tissue, without affecting significantly steatosis. In the gut, rhubarb supplementation increased crypt depth, tissue weight, and the expression of antimicrobial peptides.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that some bacterial genders involved in gut barrier function, are promoted by phytochemicals present in rhubarb extract, and could therefore be involved in the modulation of the susceptibility to hepatic diseases linked to acute alcohol consumption.
Cyanidin‐3‐glucoside and its phenolic acid metabolites attenuate visible light‐induced retinal degeneration in vivo via activation of Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway and NF‐κB suppression
Authors: Wang Yong , Huo Yazhen , Zhao Liang , Lu Feng , Wang Ou , Yang Xue , Ji Baoping , Zhou Feng 
Published: March 2016

ScopeCyanidin‐3‐glucoside (C3G) is a major anthocyanin in berries and a potential nutritional supplement for preventing retinal degeneration. However, the protective mechanism of C3G and its metabolites, protocatechuic acid (PCA) and ferulic acid (FA), remain unclear. The molecular mechanisms of C3G and its metabolites against retinal photooxidative damage in vivo are investigated.Methods and resultsPigmented rabbits were orally administered C3G, PCA, and FA (0.11 mmol/kg/day) for 3 weeks. Electroretinography, histological analysis, and TUNEL assay showed that C3G and its metabolites attenuated retinal cell apoptosis. The expression of oxidative stress markers were upregulated after light exposure but attenuated by C3G and FA, which may be attributed to the elevated secretion and expression of heme oxygenase (HO‐1) and nuclear factor erythroid‐2 related factor 2 (Nrf2). C3G, PCA, and FA attenuated the secretion or expression of inflammation‐related genes; FA suppressed nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) activation. The treatments attenuated the light‐induced changes on certain apoptotic proteins and angiogenesis‐related cytokines.ConclusionC3G and FA reduced light‐induced retinal oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2/HO‐1 antioxidant pathway. FA attenuated the light‐induced retinal inflammation by suppressing NF‐κB activation. C3G and its metabolites attenuated the photooxidation‐induced apoptosis and angiogenesis in the retina.
Modeling the Radical Batch Homopolymerization of Acrylamide in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Preusser Calista , Chovancová Anna , Lacík Igor , Hutchinson Robin A. 
Published: March 2016

A kinetic model for the radical homopolymerization of acrylamide in aqueous solution is developed, incorporating propagation and termination rate coefficients as functions of monomer concentration and including the formation and reaction of midchain radicals based on the insights and measured rate coefficients from recent pulsed‐laser studies. The model successfully represents the batch conversion profiles measured using an in situ NMR technique between 40 and 70 °C with initial monomer concentrations of 5 to 40 wt%, as well as the associated polymer molar mass distributions. In particular, the model captures the decreased rate that occurs at lowered monomer concentrations as a result of the formation of less‐active midchain radicals by backbiting. Previous literature data are also well represented by the model.
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Optimal control for a singularly perturbed linear stochastic system with multiplicative white noise perturbations and Markovian jumping
Authors: Dragan Vasile , Mukaidani Hiroaki 
Published: March 2016

SummaryIn this study, we investigate the optimal control of a class of singularly perturbed linear stochastic systems with Markovian jumping parameters. After establishing an asymptotic structure for the stabilizing solution of the coupled stochastic algebraic Riccati equations, a parameter‐independent composite controller is derived. Furthermore, the cost degradation in a reduced‐order controller is discussed. Thus, the exactness of the proposed approximate control is discussed for the first time. As an additional important contribution, a numerical algorithm for solving the coupled stochastic algebraic Riccati equations is proposed, and the feature of the resulting higher‐order controller is shown. Finally, a simple example is presented to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outcomes of stage I TTTS or liquor discordant twins: a single‐centre review
Authors: Hinch Ellen , Henry Amanda , Wilson Isabella , Welsh Alec W. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractObjectivesTo investigate rates of progression, regression and stabilisation and outcomes for stage I twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and significant liquor discordant (LD) monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twins referred to the New South Wales Fetal Therapy Centre between June 2007 and May 2013.MethodsRetrospective cohort study of 329 monochorionic referrals, of whom 47 had LD and 28 had stage I TTTS at presentation; 43 were stage I or higher at any time during surveillance. Clinical progression, rates of therapy, survival and associated complications were evaluated.ResultsOf stage I cases, 64% (18/28) remained stable or regressed, with 60% (6/10) of those progressing becoming at least stage II within 2 weeks. Of LD cases, 7/47 (15%) progressed to stage I TTTS, 8/47 (17%) to stage II or higher and 3/47 (6%) to selective intrauterine growth restriction (38% total).ConclusionWhile a stable clinical picture was the most common outcome in stage I/LD presentations, progression to stage ≥ II TTTS occurred in 36 and 17% respectively, indicating that LD is not a benign finding. Rapid progression in the majority of progressive cases and modest overall survival rates support close surveillance of these pregnancies and investigation of laser therapy as a first‐line treatment of stage I TTTS. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictors of prevalent statin use among older adults identified as statin initiators based on Medicare claims data
Authors: Young Jessica C. , Stürmer Til , Lund Jennifer L. , Funk Michele Jonsson 
Published: March 2016

AbstractPurposeFew studies have evaluated the degree to which prescription drug initiators are correctly identified using claims data. We examine the prevalence and predictors of recent statin possession in statin initiators identified using claims data.MethodsAmong Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) respondents, we used Medicare Part D claims from 2006 to 2011 to identify statin initiators using a 12‐month baseline period of no prior statin claims. Using MCBS interview data, we identified those with self‐reported statins obtained during the baseline period. We used log‐binomial regression to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (adjPR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for predictors of recent statin possession.ResultsAmong 766 statin initiators identified in prescription claims, 155 (20%) reported recent statin possession during baseline. Beneficiaries with no Part D claims in the past 30 days (adjPR = 1.49, 95%CI: 1.13, 1.96), those with no inpatient, outpatient or physician visits in the past 30 days (adjPR = 1.50, 95%CI: 1.11, 2.03), those with a brand name statin index claim (adjPR = 1.55, 95%CI: 1.19, 2.02), and those with an index claim in January or February (adjPR = 1.50, 95%CI: 1.00, 2.26) had an increased probability of recent statin possession.ConclusionsIn a cohort of statin initiators identified using prescription claims, 20% had evidence of statin possession during the baseline period. Pharmacoepidemiologic new user studies may benefit from including sensitivity analyses within subgroups less likely to include prevalent users to assess the robustness of key findings to misidentification of the time of treatment initiation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microwave‐crosslinked bio‐based starch/clay aerogels
Authors: Wang Liang , Sánchez‐Soto Miguel , Abt Tobias , Maspoch Maria Lluisa , Santana Orlando O 
Published: March 2016

AbstractFoam‐like robust starch/sodium montmorillonite (Na+‐MMT) aerogels were fabricated through a freeze‐drying process. Glutaraldehyde (GL) was used to crosslink the starch aerogels with the assistance of radiation supplied by a domestic microwave oven. The chemical reaction between GL and starch was analysed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and water swelling tests. The microstructures and mechanical properties of the resultant crosslinked starch aerogels changed with GL concentration. By incorporating 5% (w/w) GL, the specific compressive modulus and absorbed energy increased by 2.4 and 3.3 times, respectively. In regard to starch/clay aerogel composites, Na+‐MMT clay played the role of reinforcement. Moreover, clay addition created more porous structures and hence decreased the thermal conductivity of the aerogels. The biodegradability of the aerogels was studied using a homemade micro‐respirometer. The starch aerogels exhibited higher biodegradability than poly(vinyl alcohol)‐based ones and their corresponding films. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Novel poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) composite films containing bioactive glass nanoparticles for wound healing applications
Authors: Francis Lydia , Meng Decheng , Locke Ian C , Knowles Jonathan C , Mordan Nicola , Salih Vehid , Boccaccini Aldo R , Roy Ipsita 
Published: March 2016

AbstractBioactive glass is considered an ideal material for haemostasis as it releases Ca2+ ions upon hydration, which is required to support thrombosis. In this study the effects of the presence of nanoscaled bioactive glass (n‐BG) in poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB)) microsphere films on the structural properties, thermal properties and biocompatibility of the films were studied. The n‐BG with a high surface area was also tested for its in vitro haemostatic efficacy and was found to be able to successfully reduce clot detection time. In an effort to study the effect of the roughness induced by the formation of hydroxyapatite on cellular functions such as cell adhesion, cell mobility and cell differentiation, the composite films were immersed in simulated body fluid for periods of 1, 3 and 7 days. From scanning electron microscopy images, the surface of the P(3HB)/n‐BG composite microsphere films appeared fairly uniform and smooth on day 1; however on day 3 and day 7 a rough and uneven surface was observed. The presence of hydroxyapatite on the composite microsphere films on day 3 and day 7 influenced the surface roughness of the films. However, when the P(3HB)/n‐BG composite microsphere films with enhanced surface roughness were tested for biocompatibility, reduced amounts of protein adsorption and cell adhesion were observed. This study thus revealed that there is an optimal surface roughness for the P(3HB) microsphere films for increased cell adhesion, beyond which it could be deleterious for cell adhesion and differentiation. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry