bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and thermal transition behavior of model thermoplastic polyurethanes containing MDI/butanediol‐based monodisperse hard segments
Authors: Ren Li , Kang Nam‐Goo , Shah Priyank N. , Faust Rudolf 
Published: June 2016

ABSTRACTAmine‐terminated monodisperse hard segments (MDHSs) containing two to four 4,4′‐methylenebis (phenyl isocyanate) extended by 1,4‐butanediol have been synthesized using carboxybenzyl protecting‐deprotecting strategy. Pure MDHSs in large scale were obtained in good yield and their structures were confirmed by 1H‐, 13C‐NMR spectroscopy and GPC‐MALLS. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed that as the hard segment (HS) size increased, the melting and glass transition temperature and the change of heat capacity at glass transition of ethyl capped MDHSs increased. Model thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) were synthesized using the reaction of bischloroformate of poly (tetramethylene oxide) (PTMO) diol or polyisobutylene (PIB) diol with amine‐terminated MDHSs. X‐ray diffraction results indicated the amorphous structure of model TPUs. DSC revealed HS related endotherms, regardless of SS, which were attributed to the local ordering of the HSs. Additional endotherms in PTMO based model TPUs might arise from the dissociation of hydrogen bonding between PTMO and HSs. The lower Tg in model TPUs compared to the polydisperse analogues observed by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) indicated higher microphase separation of monodisperse HSs. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3171–3181
Quantifying Whitewater Recreation Opportunities in Cataract Canyon of the Colorado River, Utah: Aggregating Acceptable Flows and Hydrologic Data to Identify Boatable Days
Authors: Stafford E. , Fey N. , Vaske J. J. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractThe structural norm approach was combined with the Potential for Conflict Index to define recreation streamflow needs for the Colorado River in Utah and Colorado. An online survey was completed by 128 commercial and non‐commercial boaters, who evaluated a range of flows for whitewater boating. For the Cataract Canyon reach, respondents rated the quality of their recreation experience of specific flows, describing the quality of boating opportunities across the full range of historical streamflows. Ranges for both acceptable and optimum flows were defined, as well as thresholds for unacceptable flows. These ranges were then evaluated against historical hydrologic records to quantify the timing, frequency, and duration of days when defined whitewater flows exist across different year types (i.e. average boatable days). Results indicated that on average, a total of 257 boatable days existed in dry years, and 353 total boatable days occurred in dry‐typical years. In wet and wet‐typical years, 362 and 365 total boatable days respectively, occurred on average. Results of the boatable days' analysis indicated that over the 23‐year period of record, whitewater boating opportunities occurred nearly every day of the year in all but the driest year types. Results from this study provide resource managers with information which can be used in the development of annual operating plans for the Colorado River Basin and help managers understand how changes in flow impact the quality of recreational opportunities. This application demonstrates the value of analysing boatable days on any river where recreation management is a priority. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Microvesicles Prevent the Rupture of Intracranial Aneurysm in Part by Suppression of Mast Cell Activation via a PGE2-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Liu Jia , Kuwabara Atsushi , Kamio Yoshinobu , Hu Shuling , Park Jeonghyun , Hashimoto Tomoki , Lee Jae-Woo 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Activation of mast cells participates in the chronic inflammation associated with cerebral arteries in intracranial aneurysm formation and rupture. Several studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is beneficial for the treatment of aneurysms. However, some long-term safety concerns exist regarding stem cell-based therapy for clinical use. We investigated the therapeutic potential of microvesicles (MVs) derived from human MSCs, anuclear membrane bound fragments with reparative properties, in preventing the rupture of intracranial aneurysm in mice, particularly in the effect of MVs on mast cell activation. Intracranial aneurysm was induced in C57BL/6 mice by the combination of systemic hypertension and intrathecal elastase injection. Intravenous administration of MSC-derived MVs on day 6 and day 9 after aneurysm induction significantly reduced the aneurysmal rupture rate, which was associated with reduced number of activated mast cells in the brain. A23187-induced activation of both primary cultures of murine mast cells and a human mast cell line, LAD2, was suppressed by MVs treatment, leading to a decrease in cytokine release and tryptase and chymase activities. Upregulation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production and E-prostanoid 4 (EP4) receptor expression were also observed on mast cells with MVs treatment. Administration of an EP4 antagonist with the MVs eliminated the protective effect of MVs against the aneurysmal rupture in vivo. Human MSC-derived MVs prevented the rupture of intracranial aneurysm, in part due to their anti-inflammatory effect on mast cells, which was mediated by PGE2 production and EP4 activation.
Transcription Factor GLIS3: A New and Critical Regulator of Postnatal Stages of Mouse Spermatogenesis
Authors: Kang Hong Soon , Chen Liang-Yu , Lichti-Kaiser Kristin , Liao Grace , Gerrish Kevin , Bortner Carl D. , Yao Humphrey H.-C. , Eddy Edward M. , Jetten Anton M. 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
In this study, we identify a novel and essential role for the Krüppel-like zinc finger transcription factor GLI-similar 3 (GLIS3) in the regulation of postnatal spermatogenesis. We show that GLIS3 is expressed in gonocytes, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and spermatogonial progenitors (SPCs), but not in differentiated spermatogonia and later stages of spermatogenesis or in somatic cells. Spermatogenesis is greatly impaired in GLIS3 knockout mice. Loss of GLIS3 function causes a moderate reduction in the number of gonocytes, but greatly affects the generation of SSCs/SPCs, and as a consequence the development of spermatocytes. Gene expression profiling demonstrated that the expression of genes associated with undifferentiated spermatogonia was dramatically decreased in GLIS3-deficient mice and that the cytoplasmic-to-nuclear translocation of FOXO1, which marks the gonocyte-to-SSC transition and is necessary for SSC self-renewal, is inhibited. These observations suggest that GLIS3 promotes the gonocyte-to-SSC transition and is a critical regulator of the dynamics of early postnatal spermatogenesis.
TRIM28 Is an Epigenetic Barrier to Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Reprogramming
Authors: Miles Denise Catherine , de Vries Nienke Alexandra , Gisler Santiago , Lieftink Cor , Akhtar Waseem , Gogola Ewa , Pawlitzky Inka , Hulsman Danielle , Tanger Ellen , Koppens Martijn , Beijersbergen Roderick Leonardus , van Lohuizen Maarten 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Since the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells there has been intense interest in understanding the mechanisms that allow a somatic cell to be reprogrammed back to a pluripotent state. Several groups have studied the alterations in gene expression that occur as somatic cells modify their genome to that of an embryonic stem cell. Underpinning many of the gene expression changes are modifications to the epigenetic profile of the associated chromatin. We have used a large-scale shRNA screen to identify epigenetic modifiers that act as barriers to reprogramming. We have uncovered an important role for TRIM28 in cells resisting transition between somatic and pluripotent states. TRIM28 achieves this by maintaining the H3K9me3 repressed state and keeping endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) silenced. We propose that knockdown of TRIM28 during reprogramming results in more plastic H3K9me3 domains, dysregulation of genes nearby H3K9me3 marks, and up regulation of ERVs, thus facilitating the transition through reprogramming.
Systems‐level airway models of bronchoconstriction
Authors: Donovan Graham M. 
Published: June 2016

Understanding lung and airway behavior presents a number of challenges, both experimental and theoretical, but the potential rewards are great in terms of both potential treatments for disease and interesting biophysical phenomena. This presents an opportunity for modeling to contribute to greater understanding, and here, we focus on modeling efforts that work toward understanding the behavior of airways in vivo, with an emphasis on asthma. We look particularly at those models that address not just isolated airways but many of the important ways in which airways are coupled both with each other and with other structures. This includes both interesting phenomena involving the airways and the layer of airway smooth muscle that surrounds them, and also the emergence of spatial ventilation patterns via dynamic airway interaction. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2016, 8:459–467. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1349This article is categorized under:

Analytical and Computational Methods > Dynamical Methods
Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Mechanistic Models
Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Organ, Tissue, and Physiological Models
Video-assisted functional assessment of index pollicisation in congenital anomalies
Authors: Mas Virginie , Ilharreborde Brice , Mallet Cindy , Mazda Keyvan , Simon Anne-Laure , Jehanno Pascal 
Published: June 2016

Purpose Functional results of index pollicisation are usually assessed by the clinical score of Percival. This score is based on elementary hand movements and does not reflect the function of the neo thumb in daily life activities. The aim of this study was to develop a new video-assisted scoring system based on daily life activities to assess index pollicisation functional outcomes. Methods Twenty-two consecutive children, operated between 1998 and 2012, were examined with a mean of 77 months after surgery. The mean age at surgery was 34 months. Post-operative results were evaluated by a new video-assisted 14-point scoring system consisting of seven basic tasks that are frequently used in daily activities. The series of tasks was performed both on the request of the examiner and in real-life conditions with the use of a hidden camera. Each video recording was examined by three different examiners. Each examiner rated the video recordings three times, with an interval of one week between examinations. Inter- and intra-observer agreements were calculated. Results Inter- and intra-observer agreements were excellent both on request (κ = 0.87 [0.84–0.97] for inter-observer agreement and 0.92 [0.82–0.98] for intra-observer agreement) and on hidden camera (κ = 0.83 [0.78–0.91] for inter-observer agreement and 0.89 [0.83–0.96] for intra-observer agreement). The results were significantly better on request than on hidden camera ( p = 0.045). The correlation between the video-assisted scoring system and the Percival score was poor. Conclusion The video-assisted scoring system is a reliable tool to assess index pollicisation functional outcomes. The scoring system on hidden camera is more representative of the neo thumb use in daily life complex movements. Level of evidence Level IV.
Use of geogrid in the construction of railroads
Authors: Das Braja M. 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Over the last three decades geogrid has been used as a reinforcement in the construction of several earth- retaining and earth-supported structures. In more recent times it has been used as reinforcement of railroad beds to improve its performance and structural integrity. A review of several published field and large-scale laboratory test results relating to the reinforcing ability of geogrids is presented. Also included are a number of case histories from several countries where layer(s) of geogrid were used in ballast and sub-ballast layers and on soft subgrade to reduce track settlement and, hence, the frequency of maintenance.
Evaluation of pleth variability index as a predictor of fluid responsiveness during orthotopic liver transplantation
Authors: Konur Huseyin , Erdogan Kayhan Gulay , Toprak Huseyin Ilksen , Bucak Nizamettin , Aydogan Mustafa Said , Yologlu Saim , Durmus Mahmut , Yılmaz Sezai 
Published: June 2016

AbstractFluid management is challenging and still remains controversial in orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). The pleth variability index (PVI) has been shown to be a reliable predictor of fluid responsiveness of perioperative and critically ill patients; however, it has not been evaluated in OLT. This study was designed to examine whether the PVI can reliably predict fluid responsiveness in OLT and to compare PVI with other hemodynamic indexes that are measured using the PiCCO2 monitoring system. Twenty‐five patients were enrolled in this study. Each patient was monitored using the noninvasive Masimo and PiCCO2 monitoring system. PVI was obtained with a Masimo pulse oximeter. Cardiac index was obtained using a transpulmonary thermodilution technique (CITPTD). Stroke volume variation (SVV), pulse pressure variation, and systemic vascular resistance index were measured using the PiCCO2 system. Fluid loading (10 mL/kg colloid) was performed at two different phases during the operation, and fluid responsiveness was defined as an increase in CITPTD ≥ 15%. During the dissection phase and the anhepatic phase, respectively, 14 patients (56%) and 18 patients (75%) were classified as responders. There were no differences between the baseline values of the PVI of responders and nonresponders. Area under the curve for PVI was 0.56 (sensitivity 35%, specificity 90%, p = 0.58) at dissection phase, and was 0.55 (sensitivity 55%, specificity 66%, p = 0.58) at anhepatic phase. Of the parameters, a higher area under the curve value was found for SVV. We conclude that PVI was unable to predict fluid responsiveness with sufficient accuracy in patients undergoing OLT, but the SVV parameter was reliable.
Dynamic correlations and volatility linkages between stocks and sukuk: Evidence from international markets
Authors: Sclip Alex , Dreassi Alberto , Miani Stefano , Paltrinieri Andrea 
Published: June 2016

AbstractAn understanding of volatility and co‐movements in financial markets is important for portfolio allocation and risk management practices. The current financial crisis caused a shrinkage in values of most assets, an increased volatility and a threat to the survival of several institutional investors. Managing risks and returns within the classic portfolio theory, when correlations across securities soar, is increasingly challenging. In this paper, we investigate the volatility behavior and the co‐movements between sukuk and international stock indexes. Symmetric multivariate GARCH models with dynamic conditional correlations (DCC) were estimated under Student‐t distribution. We provide evidence of high correlations between sukuk and US and EU stock markets, without finding the well‐known flight to quality behavior affecting Islamic bonds. We also show that volatility linkages between sukuk and regional market indexes are higher during financial crisis. We argue that investors could obtain diversification benefits including sukuk in a well‐diversified equity portfolio, given their lower volatility compared to equity. But higher volatility linkages and dynamic correlations during financial crises show that they are hybrid instruments between bonds and equity. Our findings are relevant for institutional investors and asset managers that include Islamic bonds in a diversified portfolio.
Supporting Community Health Workers After a Disaster: Findings From a Mixed-Methods Pilot Evaluation Study of a Psychoeducational Intervention
Authors: Powell Tara , Yuma-Guerrero Paula 
Published: June 2016

AbstractObjectiveCommunity health workers (CHWs) in disaster-affected areas are at risk for emotional distress, as they support others while they may be in the process of rebuilding their own lives. The Resilience and Coping for the Healthcare Community (RCHC) intervention was developed in response to the stress CHWs faced after Hurricane Sandy. The intervention uses psychoeducation to help participants identify common stress responses, recognize signs of job burnout, and utilize healthy coping strategies.MethodsA mixed-methods pilot of the RCHC intervention was conducted in 2013 with a convenience sample of staff from 6 federally qualified health centers (n=69). Validated measures of stress, coping, compassion fatigue and satisfaction, burnout, stress, and social provisions and a measure of perceived knowledge were administered at baseline, after the workshop, and at a 3-week follow-up. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 randomly selected participants and were analyzed by using content analysis.ResultsFrom baseline to the post-workshop assessment, perceived knowledge scores increased from 24.59 to 30.34, t(62)=5.16 (P<0.001), and acute stress scores decreased significantly from 10.53 to 6.78, t(64)=4.74 (P<0.001). Significant increases from baseline to the 3-week follow-up (n=45) were found for perceived knowledge (24.05 to 27.24; t(40)=5.37; P<0.001), and social provisions (27.34 to 28.39; t(44)=2.15; P<0.05).ConclusionsOur qualitative findings indicated that the respondents valued learning about common stress responses and incorporating coping as part of a daily routine. Team building and normalization of emotions were seen as ancillary benefits that would reduce stress levels in the workplace. In conclusion, the RCHC intervention shows promise and should be investigated further in experimental studies. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;page 1 of 8)
National Bloodstream Infection Surveillance in Switzerland 2008–2014: Different Patterns and Trends for University and Community Hospitals
Authors: Buetti Niccolò , Marschall Jonas , Atkinson Andrew , Kronenberg Andreas ,   Swiss Centre for Antibiotic Resistance (ANRESIS)
Published: June 2016

OBJECTIVETo characterize the epidemiology of bloodstream infections in Switzerland, comparing selected pathogens in community and university hospitals.DESIGNObservational, retrospective, multicenter laboratory surveillance study.METHODSData on bloodstream infections from 2008 through 2014 were obtained from the Swiss infection surveillance system, which is part of the Swiss Centre for Antibiotic Resistance (ANRESIS). We compared pathogen prevalences across 26 acute care hospitals. A subanalysis for community-acquired and hospital-acquired bloodstream infections in community and university hospitals was performed.RESULTSA total of 42,802 bloodstream infection episodes were analyzed. The most common etiologies wereEscherichia coli(28.3%),Staphylococcus aureus(12.4%), and polymicrobial bloodstream infections (11.4%). The proportion ofE. coliincreased from 27.5% in 2008 to 29.6% in 2014 (P= .04).E. coliandS. aureuswere more commonly reported in community than university hospitals (34.3% vs 22.7%,P<.001 and 13.9% vs 11.1%,P<.001, respectively). Fifty percent of episodes were community-acquired, withE. coliagain being more common in community hospitals (41.0% vs 32.4%,P<.001). The proportion ofE. coliin community-acquired bloodstream infections increased in community hospitals only. Community-acquired polymicrobial infections (9.9% vs 5.6%,P<.001) and community-acquired coagulase-negative staphylococci (6.7% vs 3.4%,P<0.001) were more prevalent in university hospitals.CONCLUSIONSThe role ofE. colias predominant pathogen in bloodstream infections has become more pronounced. There are distinct patterns in community and university hospitals, potentially influencing empirical antibiotic treatment.Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2016;37:1060–1067
Globular Clusters in the Galactic Bulge
Authors: Bica E. , Ortolani S. , Barbuy B. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractA view of the Galactic bulge by means of their globular clusters is fundamental for a deep understanding of its formation and evolution. Connections between the globular cluster and field star properties in terms of kinematics, orbits, chemical abundances, and ages should shed light on different stellar population components. Based on spatial distribution and metallicity, we define a probable best list of bulge clusters, containing 43 entries. Future work on newly discovered objects, mostly from the VVV survey, is suggested. These candidates might alleviate the issue of missing clusters on the far side of the bulge. We discuss the reddening law affecting the cluster distances towards the centre of the Galaxy, and conclude that the most suitable total-to-selective absorption value appears to beRV=3.2, in agreement with recent analyses. An update of elemental abundances for bulge clusters is provided.
The Interstellar Extinction Towards the Milky Way Bulge with Planetary Nebulae, Red Clump, and RR Lyrae Stars
Authors: Nataf David M. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractI review the literature covering the issue of interstellar extinction towards the Milky Way bulge, with emphasis placed on findings from planetary nebulae, RR Lyrae, and red clump stars. I also report on observations from HI gas and globular clusters. I show that there has been substantial progress in this field in recent decades, most particularly from red clump stars. The spatial coverage of extinction maps has increased by a factor ~ 100 × in the past 20 yr, and the total-to-selective extinction ratios reported have shifted by ~ 20–25%, indicative of the improved accuracy and separately, of a steeper-than-standard extinction curve. Problems remain in modelling differential extinction, explaining anomalies involving the planetary nebulae, and understanding the difference between bulge extinction coefficients and ‘standard’ literature values.
The Galactic Bulge
Authors: Barbuy B. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractThe Galactic bulge is the least studied component of our Galaxy. Yet, its formation and evolution are key to understand the formation of the Galaxy itself. Studies on the Galactic bulge have increased significantly in the last years, but still there are many points of controversy. This volume contains several contributions from experts in different aspects of the bulge. Issues discussed include the following: the presence of an old spheroidal bulge, or identification of its old stellar population with the thick disk or halo; fraction of stars younger than 10 Gyr is estimated to be of < 5 to 22% depending on method and authors; multiple populations or only a metal-poor and a metal-rich ones; spheroidal or ellipsoidal distribution of RR Lyrae; formation of the bulge from early mergers or from secular evolution of the bar; different methods of mapping extinction; selection and identification of bulge globular clusters.