bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of TGF-β1 Stimulation on the Secretome of Human Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Rodríguez Tania M. , Saldías Alejandro , Irigo Marcelo , Zamora Jorge Velasco , Perone Marcelo J. , Dewey Ricardo A. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractAdipose tissue is an attractive source of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) owing to the relative ease of obtaining large volumes with more MSC abundance compared with other sources. Increasing evidence supports the fact that trophic factors secreted by MSCs play a pivotal therapeutic role. Several strategies in regenerative medicine use MSCs, mainly exploiting their immunosuppressive effect and homing capacity to sites of damage. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a pleiotropic cytokine that, depending on the cell niche, can display either anti-inflammatory or proinflammatory effects. TGF-β1 expression increases in various tissues with damage, especially when accompanied by inflammation. Thus, we analyzed the effect of TGF-β1 on the secretion by adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ASCs) of a panel of 80 cytokines/chemokines using an antibody array. To avoid a possible effect of fetal bovine serum (FBS) on ASCs secretion, we performed our analysis by culturing cells in FBS-free conditions, only supplemented with 0.1% of bovine serum albumin. We report the cytokine profile secreted by ASCs. We also found that TGF-β1 exposure modulates 8 chemokines and 18 cytokines, including TGF-β1 and -β2, and other important cytokines involved in immunosuppression, allergic responses, and bone resorption.SignificanceMesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) secrete a broad spectrum of bioactive macromolecules that are both immunoregulatory and serve to structure regenerative microenvironments in fields of tissue injury. Increases or decreases in the production of TGF-β1 have been linked to numerous disease states, including autoimmune diseases and cancer. The secretome of MSCs stimulated with TGF-β1 is largely unknown. Thus, the present study makes an important contribution toward a better understanding of how MSCs could be affected by a cytokine normally upregulated in various diseases.
On the field‐aligned electric field in the polar cap
Authors: Wing Simon , Fairfield Donald H. , Johnson Jay R. , Ohtani Shin‐I. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory open‐field line particle precipitation model predicts downward field‐aligned electric field to maintain charge quasi‐neutrality. Previous studies confirmed the existence of such electric fields. However, the present study shows that upward field‐aligned electric field can be found within upward field‐aligned current (FAC) region. In the upward FAC region, upward electric field that accelerates electron downward is seen with the occurrence rates of 82%–96%. In contrast, the occurrence rates in the downward FAC regions are 3%–11%. Polar rain electrons located in the upward FAC region adjacent to closed field lines often show a ramping up of energy with increasing latitude before reaching a plateau. This plateau may be attributed to the magnetosheath electrons that progressively have higher antisunward velocity and lower density with increasing distance from the subsolar point before they asymptotically reach the solar wind values.
New scaling model for variables and increments with heavy‐tailed distributions
Authors: Riva Monica , Neuman Shlomo P. , Guadagnini Alberto 
Published: May 2015

AbstractMany hydrological (as well as diverse earth, environmental, ecological, biological, physical, social, financial and other) variables, Y, exhibit frequency distributions that are difficult to reconcile with those of their spatial or temporal increments, ΔY. Whereas distributions of Y (or its logarithm) are at times slightly asymmetric with relatively mild peaks and tails, those of ΔY tend to be symmetric with peaks that grow sharper, and tails that become heavier, as the separation distance (lag) between pairs of Y values decreases. No statistical model known to us captures these behaviors of Y and ΔY in a unified and consistent manner. We propose a new, generalized sub‐Gaussian model that does so. We derive analytical expressions for probability distribution functions (pdfs) of Y and ΔY as well as corresponding lead statistical moments. In our model the peak and tails of the ΔY pdf scale with lag in line with observed behavior. The model allows one to estimate, accurately and efficiently, all relevant parameters by analyzing jointly sample moments of Y and ΔY. We illustrate key features of our new model and method of inference on synthetically generated samples and neutron porosity data from a deep borehole.
Management of acute asthma exacerbations
Authors: Franzese Christine 
Published: May 2015

BackgroundAcute asthma exacerbations are common events in the lives of asthmatics, and even the best‐managed asthma patients will have acute asthma exacerbations. There are different levels of severity of exacerbations with corresponding management strategies the physician can use to treat acute events. These strategies, including some adjunctive therapies, are reviewed in this article.MethodsA review of the English‐language scientific literature was performed regarding management of acute asthma exacerbations, focusing of published guidelines, meta‐analyses, and database reviews.ResultsSymptoms of exacerbations are reviewed with attention to determining the severity of the exacerbation and the place of management, either at home or in a more acute care setting. Medical therapies for the treatment of each severity level are reviewed as to their effectiveness. Post‐exacerbation care is also discussed.ConclusionAsthma exacerbations will happen and both the provider and patient need to be educated on how to manage these occurrences. Whether the patient is managed at home or in a hospital setting will be determined by the level of severity. Regardless of the medical therapies employed, continued focus should be on further prevention of additional exacerbations.
Localized EM and photonic jets from non‐spherical and non‐symmetrical dielectric mesoscale objects: Brief review
Authors: Minin Igor V. , Minin Oleg V. , Geints Yuri E. 
Published: May 2015

The interest to mesoscale dielectric objects, whose effective dimensions are comparable with the incident radiation wavelength, is caused by their unique ability to modify the spatial structure of the incident wave in the specific manner and to produce a highly localized intensive optical flux (“photonic jet”) with the subwavelength spatial resolution. In the current paper we brief review the modern state‐of‐the‐art of main principles of the photonic jet formation by non‐spherical and non‐symmetrical dielectric mesoscale particles both in transmitting and reflection mode. A deeper understanding of the photonic jet is nevertheless needed to fully exploit the potential performance of nano‐ and micro‐ dielectric mesoscale objects as diffractive components at different wavebands.
image
Western Section of the ‘Dry Moat’ Channel Surrounding Step Pyramid Complex in Saqqara in the Light of Ground‐penetrating Radar Prospection
Authors: Welc Fabian , Mieszkowski Radosław , Trzciński Jerzy , Kowalczyk Sebastian 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe Dry Moat is one of the most impressive and at the same time puzzling architectonic structure preserved within the famous royal necropolis at Saqqara, Egypt. It is a rock‐hewn ditch about 40 m wide and of variable depth, which surrounds the Step Pyramid complex built by Pharaoh Djoser from the Third Dynasty which was the first monumental structure totally built of stone blocks in human history. The function and intention of the Dry Moat remained unknown prior to this study and was unique in the Old Kingdom (ca. 4600–4200 BP). The main focus of the ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) survey conducted in 2012 was recognizing the course of the western section of the Dry Moat and determining the geometry of this structure. The GPR survey confirmed the effectiveness of the GPR method and determined that this vast architectural structure is a ditch surrounding the Step Pyramid. The western section of the Dry Moat was found to have a different geometry than previously thought. The stratigraphy of the infilling beds suggests that it is deeper in the western part than in the eastern one. In the light of conducted GPR prospection it seems likely that the Dry Moat served originally as the huge quarry for material used for construction of the Step Pyramid. It may have also had a secondary function that was purely religious in nature, as has been suggested by some scholars. The Dry Moat seems to be a unique stone work without any known analogies from ancient Egypt. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Short Helix Formed by Cyclic β2,3‐Aminoxy Peptides in Protic Solvents
Authors: Hao Yu , An Ke , Zhang Dan‐Wei , Yang Dan 
Published: May 2015

AbstractWater‐soluble cyclic β2,3‐aminoxy peptides have been successfully prepared and characterized in polar organic solvents and aqueous media. The monomeric and oligomeric peptides exhibit unique β N−O turns and helical conformations, with extraordinary stability toward a wide range of pH values and temperatures.
Control of Microbial Growth in Alginate/Polydopamine Core/Shell Microbeads
Authors: Kim Beom Jin , Park Taegyun , Park So‐Young , Han Sang Woo , Lee Hee‐Seung , Kim Yang‐Gyun , Choi Insung S. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractMicrobial microencapsulation not only protects microorganisms from harmful environments by physically isolating them from the outside media but also has the potential to tailor the release profile of the encapsulated cells. However, the microbial release has not yet been controlled tightly, leading to undesired detrimental exposure of microorganisms to the outside. In this work, we suggest a simple method for controlling the cell release by suppressing the microbial growth in the microbeads. Alginate microbeads, encapsulating yeast cells, were coated with ultrathin but robust polydopamine shells, and the resulting core/shell structures effectively reduced the growth rate, while maintaining the cell viability.
Pyrolytic synthesis and luminescence of porous lanthanide Eu‐MOF
Authors: Jin Guangya , Liu Zhijian , Sun Hongfa , Tian Zhiyong 
Published: May 2015

AbstractA lanthanide metal coordination polymer [Eu2(BDC)3(DMSO)(H2O)] was synthesized by the reaction of europium oxide with benzene‐1,3‐dicarboxylic acid (H2BDC) in a mixed solution of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and water under hydrothermal conditions. The crystal structure of Eu2(BDC)3(DMSO)(H2O) was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Thermo‐gravimetric analysis of Eu2(BDC)3(DMSO)(H2O) indicated that coordinated DMSO and H2O molecules could be removed to create Eu2(BDC)3(DMSO)(H2O)‐py with permanent microporosity, which was also verified by powder XRD (PXRD) and elemental analysis. Both Eu2(BDC)3(DMSO)(H2O) and Eu2(BDC)3(DMSO)(H2O)‐py showed mainly Eu‐based luminescence and had characteristic emissions in the range 550–700 nm. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A fluorescent chemosensor based on naphthol for detection of Zn2+
Authors: Lin Hsiang‐Yi , Chen Ting‐Yu , Liu Chih‐Kai , Wu An‐Tai 
Published: May 2015

AbstractA simple naphthol‐based fluorescent receptor 1 was prepared and evaluated for its fluorescence response to heavy metal ions. Receptor 1 exhibits an ‘off‐on‐type’ mode with high selectivity in the presence of Zn2+ ion. The selectivity of 1 for Zn2+ is the consequence of combined effects of chelation‐enhanced fluorescence (CHEF), C = N isomerization and π–π stacking interaction between the two naphthalene rings. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dual‐signal amplification strategy for ultrasensitive chemiluminescence detection of PDGF–BB in capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Cao Jun‐Tao , Wang Hui , Ren Shu‐Wei , Chen Yong‐Hong , Liu Yan‐Ming 
Published: May 2015

AbstractMany efforts have been made toward the achievement of high sensitivity in capillary electrophoresis coupled with chemiluminescence detection (CE‐CL). This work describes a novel dual‐signal amplification strategy for highly specific and ultrasensitive CL detection of human platelet‐derived growth factor–BB (PDGF–BB) using both aptamer and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) modified gold nanoparticles (HRP–AuNPs–aptamer) as nanoprobes in CE. Both AuNPs and HRP in the nanoprobes could amplify the CL signals in the luminol–H2O2 CL system, owing to the excellent catalytic behavior of AuNPs and HRP in the CL system. Meanwhile, the high affinity of aptamer modified on the AuNPs allows detection with high specificity. As proof‐of‐concept, the proposed method was employed to quantify the concentration of PDGF–BB from 0.50 to 250 fm with a detection limit of 0.21 fm. The applicability of the assay was further demonstrated in the analysis of PDGF–BB in human serum samples with acceptable accuracy and reliability. The result of this study exhibits distinct advantages, such as high sensitivity, good specificity, simplicity, and very small sample consumption. The good performances of the proposed strategy provide a powerful avenue for ultrasensitive detection of rare proteins in biological sample, showing great promise in biochemical analysis. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering – From the First Ullmann's Article to Recent Trends
Authors: Al‐Kaidy Huschyar , Duwe Anna , Huster Manuel , Muffler Kai , Schlegel Christin , Sieker Tim , Stadtmüller Ralf , Tippkötter Nils , Ulber Roland 
Published: May 2015

AbstractFor several thousand years, biotechnology and its associated technical processes have had a great impact on the development of mankind. Based on empirical methods, in particular for the production of foodstuffs and daily commodities, these disciplines have become one of the most innovative future issues. Due to the increasing detailed understanding of cellular processes, production strains can now be optimized. In combination with modern bioprocesses, a variety of bulk and fine chemicals as well as pharmaceuticals can be produced efficiently. In this article, some of the current trends in biotechnology are discussed.
Long‐term outcomes with first‐ vs. second‐generation drug‐eluting stents in saphenous vein graft lesions
Authors: Pokala Nagendra R. , Menon Rohan V. , Patel Siddharth M. , Christopoulos George , Christakopoulos Georgios E. , Kotsia Anna P. , Rangan Bavana V. , Roesle Michele , Abdullah Shuaib , Grodin Jerrold , Kumbhani Dharam J. , Hastings Jeffrey , Banerjee Subhash , Brilakis Emmanouil S. 
Published: May 2015

BackgroundAs compared with bare metal stents, first‐generation drug‐eluting stents (DES) improved post‐procedural outcomes in aortocoronary saphenous vein graft (SVG) lesions, but there is limited information on outcomes after use of second‐generation DES in SVGs.MethodsWe compared the outcomes of patients who received first‐ (n = 81) with those who received second‐generation (n = 166) DES in SVG lesions at our institution between 2006 and 2013. Major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were defined as the composite of all‐cause death, myocardial infarction, and target vessel revascularization.ResultsMean age was 66.0 ± 8.1 years and 97.6% of the patients were men. Mean SVG age was 11.1 ± 0.4 years. First‐generation DES were sirolimus‐eluting (n = 17) and paclitaxel‐eluting (n = 64) stents. Second‐generation DES were everolimus‐eluting (n = 115) and zotarolimus‐eluting (n = 51) stents. Median follow‐up was 41 months. At 2‐years post‐procedure, patients with first‐ and second‐generation DES had similar rates of death (20.91% vs. 20.27%, P = 0.916), target lesion revascularization (16.39% vs. 20.00%, P = 0.572), target vessel revascularization (20.97% vs. 23.16%, P = 0.747), myocardial infarction (26.15% vs. 23.00%, P = 0.644), and MACE (43.5% vs. 40.87%, P = 0.707), respectively.ConclusionsOutcomes with first‐ and second‐generation DES in SVGs are similar. Novel stent designs are needed to further improve the clinical outcomes in this challenging patient and lesion subgroup. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brain natriuretic peptide levels variation after left atrial appendage occlusion
Authors: Cruz‐Gonzalez Ignacio , Palazuelos Molinero Jorge , Valenzuela Maria , Rada Ignacio , Perez‐Rivera Jose Angel , Arribas Jimenez Antonio , Gabella Tania , Prieto Ana Beatriz , Martín Polo Jorge , Sánchez Pedro L. 
Published: May 2015

ObjectiveTo explore the variations of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) secretion after left atrial appendage occlusion.BackgroundLeft atrial appendage occlusion has been increasingly performed in the last few years, however little is known about the physiological consequences of left atrial appendage occlusion. Left atrial appendage regulates partially intravascular volume via release of brain natriuretic peptide. Brain natriuretic peptide levels have been related to increased risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation patients.MethodsVenous blood samples were obtained in consecutive patients undergoing left atrial appendage occlusion before, 24 hr after device implantation and at the first visit after discharge (45–60 days) for BNP measurement.ResultsLeft atrial appendage occlusion was performed in 34 patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation and contraindication to long‐term oral anticoagulation or at high‐risk of bleeding. There were no differences in BNP levels between baseline and 24 hr after device implantation. However left atrial appendage closure resulted in a significant decrease in BNP levels at the first follow‐up visit (45–60 days) compared to baseline measurements (759.90 pg ml−1 vs. 636.90 pg ml−1, P = 0.013).ConclusionsLeft atrial appendage occlusion modifies BNP levels. These levels decrease after left atrial appendage occlusion. The clinical consequences of these findings need to be evaluated in further studies. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Discrepancies between direct catheter and echocardiography‐based values in aortic stenosis
Authors: Yang Chia‐Shing , Marshall Erik S. , Fanari Zaher , Kostal Michael J. , West Joseph T. , Kolm Paul , Weintraub William S. , Doorey Andrew J. 
Published: May 2015

ObjectivesThe goal of this article is to examine the correlation of catheter (cath) based and echocardiographic assessment of aortic stenosis (AS) in a community‐based academic hospital setting, particularly in the degree that decision to refer for surgery is altered.BackgroundCurrent guidelines discourage AS evaluation by invasive pressure measurement if echocardiography (echo) is adequate, but several studies show sizable differences between echo and cardiac catheterization lab (CCL) measurements. We examine this correlation using high quality CCL techniques.MethodsSequential patients with suspected AS by echo (n = 40) aged 61–94 underwent catheterization with pressure gradients via left ventricular pressure wire and ascending aorta catheter. The echos leading to the catheterization were independently reviewed by an expert panel to assess the quality of community‐based readings.ResultsCCL changed assessment of severity of aortic valve area (AVA) by more than 0.3 cm2 in 25% and 0.5 cm2 in 8%. Values changed to over or under the surgical threshold of AVA < 1 cm2 in 30% of the patients. Pearson correlation of 0.35 between measurements of AVA by echo and CCL is lower than earlier studies, which often reported correlation values of 0.90 or greater. Echo expert reviews provided minimal improvement in discrepancies (Pearson correlation of 0.46), suggesting quality of initial interpretation was not the issue.ConclusionsCath–echo correlation of AS severity is lower in contemporaneous practice than previously assumed. This can alter the decision for aortic valve replacement. Sole reliance on echo‐derived assessment of AS may at times be problematic. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fabrication of a Chitosan‐Coated Magnetic Nanobiocatalyst for Starch Hydrolysis
Authors: Jain Manisha , Sebatini Mariya , Sharmila Govindasamy , Muthukumaran Chandrasekaran , Baskar Gurunathan , Tamilarasan Krishnamurthi 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe preparation of chitosan‐coated magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and covalent immobilization of α‐amylase for starch hydrolysis was investigated. Surface morphology, chemical composition, and structural characteristics of the MNPs were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersion spectrometry, and X‐ray diffractometry, respectively. Surface functional groups of MNPs, chitosan‐coated MNPs, and α‐amylase‐immobilized MNPs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Response surface methodology based on three levels was implemented to optimize three immobilization conditions and a regression model was developed. α‐Amylase‐immobilized MNPs provided better stability towards pH and temperature. The prepared thermostable nanobiocatalyst is well‐suited for industrial processes involving starch hydrolysis.
Health‐related quality‐of‐life results from PALETTE: A randomized, double‐blind, phase 3 trial of pazopanib versus placebo in patients with soft tissue sarcoma whose disease has progressed during or after prior chemotherapy—a European Organization for research and treatment of cancer soft tissue and bone sarcoma group global network study (EORTC 62072)
Authors: Coens Corneel , van der Graaf Winette T. A. , Blay Jean‐Yves , Chawla Sant P. , Judson Ian , Sanfilippo Roberta , Manson Stephanie C. , Hodge Rachel A. , Marreaud Sandrine , Prins Judith B. , Lugowska Iwona , Litière Saskia , Bottomley Andrew 
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUNDHealth‐related quality of life (HRQoL) was an exploratory endpoint in the PALETTE trial, a global, double‐blind, randomized, phase 3 trial of pazopanib 800 mg versus placebo as second‐line or later treatment for patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma (N = 369). In that trial, progression‐free survival was significantly improved in the pazopanib arm (median, 4.6 vs 1.6 months; hazard ratio, 0.31; P < .001), and toxicity of pazopanib consisted mainly of fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, weight loss, and hypertension.METHODSHRQoL was assessed using the 30‐item core European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality‐of‐Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ‐C30) at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, and 12 in patients who received treatment on protocol. The primary HRQoL endpoint was the EORTC QLQ‐C30 global health status scale.RESULTSCompliance with HRQoL assessments was good, ranging from 94% at baseline to 81% at week 12. Differences in scores on the EORTC QLQ‐C30 global health status subscale between the 2 treatment arms were not statistically significant and did not exceed the predetermined, minimal clinically important difference of 10 points (P = .291; maximum difference, 3.8 points). Among the other subscales, the pazopanib arm reported significantly worse symptom scores for diarrhea (P < .001) loss of appetite (P < .001), nausea/vomiting (P < .001), and fatigue (P = .012). In general, HRQoL scores tended to decline over time in both arms.CONCLUSIONSHRQoL did not improve with the receipt of pazopanib. However, the observed improvement in progression‐free survival without impairment of HRQoL was considered a meaningful result. The toxicity profile of pazopanib was reflected in the patients’ self‐reported symptoms but did not translate into significantly worse overall global health status during treatment. Cancer 2015;121:2933–2941. © 2015 American Cancer Society.