bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Engineering clinically relevant volumes of vascularized bone
Authors: Roux Brianna M. , Cheng Ming‐Huei , Brey Eric M. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractVascularization remains one of the most important challenges that must be overcome for tissue engineering to be consistently implemented for reconstruction of large volume bone defects. An extensive vascular network is needed for transport of nutrients, waste and progenitor cells required for remodelling and repair. A variety of tissue engineering strategies have been investigated in an attempt to vascularize tissues, including those applying cells, soluble factor delivery strategies, novel design and optimization of bio‐active materials, vascular assembly pre‐implantation and surgical techniques. However, many of these strategies face substantial barriers that must be overcome prior to their ultimate translation into clinical application. In this review recent progress in engineering vascularized bone will be presented with an emphasis on clinical feasibility.
Exaggerated male genitalia intensify interspecific reproductive interference by damaging heterospecific female genitalia
Authors: Kyogoku D. , Sota T. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractMale–male competition over fertilization can select for harmful male genital structures that reduce the fitness of their mates, if the structures increase the male's fertilization success. During secondary contact between two allopatrically formed, closely related species, harmful male genitalia may also reduce the fitness of heterospecific females given interspecific copulation. We performed a laboratory experiment to determine whether the extent of genital spine exaggeration in Callosobruchus chinensis males affects the fitness of C. maculatus females by injuring their reproductive organs. We found that males with more exaggerated genital spines were more likely to injure the females via interspecific copulation and that the genital injury translated into fecundity loss. Thus, as predicted, reproductive interference by C. chinensis males on C. maculatus females is mediated by exaggeration of the genital spine, which is the evolutionary consequence of intraspecific male–male competition. Harmful male traits, such as genital spines, might generally affect the extent of interaction between closely related species.
Narrative medicine and decision‐making capacity
Authors: Mahr Greg 
Published: April 2015

AbstractRationale, aims and objectivesThe author proposes a new model for the assessment of decision‐making capacity based on the principles of narrative medicine. The narrative method proposed by the author addresses the hidden power realtionships implicit in the current model of capacity assessment.MethodsSample cases are reviewed using the traditional model in comparison with the narrative model.ResultsNarrative medicine provides an effective model for the assessment of decision‐making capacity.ConclusionsDeficiencies in the traditional model capacity assessment can be effectively addressed using narrative strategies.
Biomass and Sterol Production from Vegetal Substrate Fermentation Using Agaricus brasiliensis
Authors: Mokochinski João Benhur , Sovrani Vanessa , Dalla Santa Herta Stutz , Felsner Maria Lurdes , Sawaya Alexandra Christine Helena Frankland , González‐Borrero Pedro Pablo , Bataglion Giovana Anceski , Eberlin Marcos Nogueira , Torres Yohandra Reyes 
Published: April 2015

AbstractAgaricus brasiliensis was cultivated in vegetal substrates through submerged and solid‐state fermentation. We aimed to determine which combination of fermentation methods and substrates would allow greater production of biomass and sterols for applications in nutraceutical foods. Six vegetal substrates were tested: wheat and malt grains, apple, grape and pineapple pomaces, and pineapple peel. Average ergosterol and total sterol levels ranged from 324 to 1,267 μg/g and from 701 to 2,659 μg/g, respectively. The extraction of ergosterol from biomass was optimized by experimental design. As a consequence, a simple and efficient extraction procedure was achieved. Seven sterols were identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry in fermented samples, and ergosterol and β‐sitosterol were the most abundant. All substrates allowed a good development of A. brasiliensis mycelium with outstanding results for malt in submerged phase.Practical ApplicationsThe vegetal substrates wheat grains, malt grains, apple pomace, grape pomace, pineapple pomace and pineapple peel promote a good development of Agaricus brasiliensis mycelium through solid‐state fermentation and submerged fermentation techniques. Some of those substrates are discarded by the food industry. The results in this study indicate that vegetal residues from food industry could be effectively used as substrates to produce edible and medicinal mushrooms and sterols. Production of mycelium from the methods employed proved to be simple, fast, reproducible and efficient. Biomass production using residues from food industry adds value to these residues and at the same time solves disposal problems of agricultural by‐products.
Nurses' experiences of performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation in intensive care units: a qualitative study
Authors: Sjöberg Fredric , Schönning Emil , Salzmann‐Erikson Martin 
Published: April 2015

Aims and objectivesTo describe the nurses' experiences of performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation in intensive care units.BackgroundResearch in the area of resuscitation is primarily concentrated on medical and biophysical aspects. The subjective experiences of those who perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and their emotions are more seldom addressed.DesignQualitative descriptive design.MethodsQualitative semi‐structured interviews were used (n = 8). Data were analysed with content analysis.ResultsThree categories describe the experiences of nurses: training and precardiopulmonary resuscitation; chaos and order during cardiopulmonary resuscitation; and debriefing postcardiopulmonary resuscitation. The study results indicate that the health care staff find it necessary to practice cardiopulmonary resuscitation, as it provides them with a basic feeling of security when applying it in actual situations.ConclusionWe argue that postcardiopulmonary resuscitation debriefing must be viewed in the light of its eigenvalue with a specific focus on the staff's experiences and emotions, and not only on the intention of identifying errors.Relevance to clinical practiceDebriefing is of the utmost importance for the nurses. Clinical leaders may make use of the findings of this study to introduce debriefing forums as a possible standard clinical procedure.
A genetic variant in the promoter of phosphate‐activated glutaminase is associated with hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Mayer L. B. , Krawczyk M. , Grünhage F. , Lammert F. , Stokes C. S. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractBackgroundHepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a serious complication of liver cirrhosis. Recently, a microsatellite in the promoter region of the phosphate‐activated glutaminase (GLS ) gene was associated with the risk of HE. The aim of the present study was to investigate, using the critical flicker frequency (CFF) test, whether the described GLS variant increases the risk of developing HE in patients with cirrhosis.MethodsWe recruited 158 patients (66% men; mean age 59 years, range 23–86) with liver cirrhosis. Mean model for end‐stage liver disease score was 13.8 (range 5–35); 48% of patients presented with Child–Pugh score B or C. The presence and severity of HE were determined by the CFF test, with frequencies ≤39 Hz denoting cases. GLS variants were genotyped by sequencing the microsatellite in the promoter region and were classified as short, long or short–long forms (depending on the length of the macrosatellite alleles).ResultsIn total, 53% of patients had abnormal CFF results (i.e. ≤39 Hz; range for entire cohort 26–57). The GLS microsatellite distribution amongst patients was short form (20%), long form (32%) and short–long form (48%) and was consistent with Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. CFF values differed significantly between groups (P = 0.043). Carriers of the GLS long microsatellite had a significantly higher risk of HE according to multivariate analyses (odds ratio 3.23, 95% confidence interval 1.46–7.13, P = 0.004).ConclusionCFF results were significantly lower amongst carriers of the GLS long microsatellite. Our findings support the role of the GLS long microsatellite in the development of HE; this could be important for identifying susceptible patients and for the prevention of this condition.
Preschool Children's Self‐Reports of Fruit and Vegetable Knowledge, Preference, and Messages Encouraging Consumption
Authors: Hansen Andrew R. , Alfonso Moya L. , Hackney Amy A. , Luque John S. 
Published: April 2015

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDFruit and vegetable consumption (FVC) is associated with a reduced risk of diabetes, obesity, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Only one third of children aged 4‐8 years consume the recommended 5 servings a day. Studies involving school‐aged children (6‐11 years) demonstrate that positive outcome expectancies can mediate FVC. There is a lack of similar studies involving preschool‐aged (<5 years) children. The purpose of this study was to assess preschool children's knowledge and preference of fruits and vegetables, messages they recall hearing related to FVC, and how they perceive these messages.METHODSChildren (N = 192) were individually interviewed with a play‐based picture card game followed by a mealtime environment reenactment open‐ended interview. Fruit and vegetable messages were operationalized using Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). Descriptive statistics and associations are reported.RESULTSEach child recalled an average of 2.27 messages associated with FVC. Positive outcome expectancies, negative outcome expectancies, and prompts were most frequently recalled. Statistically significant differences in knowledge, preference, and messages were observed based on income.CONCLUSIONSChildren as young as age 4 years understand positive outcome expectancies. Experimental trials are warranted to determine if tailored expectancy messages mediate FVC among preschool children.
Impact of School Staff Health on Work Productivity in Secondary Schools in Massachusetts
Authors: Alker Heather J. , Wang Monica L. , Pbert Lori , Thorsen Nancy , Lemon Stephenie C. 
Published: April 2015

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDHealthy, productive employees are an integral part of school health programs. There have been few assessments of work productivity among secondary school staff. This study describes the frequency of 3 common health risk factors—obesity, depressive symptoms, and smoking—and their impact on work productivity in secondary school employees.METHODSEmployees of secondary schools in Massachusetts (N = 630) participated in a longitudinal weight gain prevention intervention study. Assessment completed at baseline, 1‐year and 2‐year follow‐up included survey assessments of health risk factors as well as measurements for height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). The survey also included a depression inventory and Work Limitations Questionnaire. Data analysis included multivariate mixed effect models to identify productivity differences in relation to BMI, depressive symptoms, and smoking in this population stratified by position type (teacher and other school staff).RESULTSThe sample included 361 teachers and 269 other school staff. Obesity, depressive symptoms, and smoking were significantly associated with work productivity, including workdays missed because of health concerns (absenteeism) and decreases in on‐the‐job productivity because of health concerns (presenteeism).CONCLUSIONSThree common health conditions, namely obesity, depressive symptoms, and smoking, adversely affect the productivity of high school employees.
Identifying Product Attributes and Consumer Attitudes that Impact Willingness to pay for a Nutraceutical‐Rich Juice Product
Authors: Lawless L.J.R. , Drichoutis A.C. , Nayga R.M. , Threlfall R.T. , Meullenet J.F. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractThe impact of participant characteristics and product sensory attributes on willingness to pay (WTP) for a nutraceutical‐rich juice blend (75% Concord grapes + 12% pomegranate + 13% black cherry) was measured using sensory evaluations and a nonhypothetical Becker–DeGroot–Marschak mechanism. Participants (n = 228) were placed into four treatment groups: Info (received a potential health statement), Taste (evaluated the sensory attributes of the juice blend), InfoTaste (evaluated the sensory attributes of the juice blend and received the potential health statement) and Control (neither tasted nor received the potential health statement about the juice blend). Participants evaluated overall liking and just‐about‐right (JAR) attributes and completed incentivized risk and time preference survey tasks. The participants' average WTP for the nutraceutical‐rich juice blend was $3.45 per bottle. Risk preference did not affect WTP, but the time preference coefficient (−8.87) indicated that higher time discount rates (lower future orientation) were associated with lower WTP within the Info group. WTP increased by $0.25 for every unit increase in sweetness, $0.20 per every unit decrease in black cherry flavor and $0.29 per every unit decrease in bitterness toward JAR. Consumer questionnaires with additional measures of consumer attitudes (e.g. future orientation) could better identify target markets. Moreover, penalty analysis which calculates the cost of attributes not being JAR in monetary units could benefit product optimization.Practical ApplicationsPotential exists to use innovative methods from other fields to increase the breadth of sensory‐oriented research. Using nonhypothetical willingness‐to‐pay mechanisms in parallel with sensory evaluation allows the identification of consumer characteristics, attitudinal factors (including risk and time preferences) and product sensory attributes that affect consumers' willingness to pay for products. Due to consumer trade‐offs between health and taste, understanding consumer characteristics and attitudes that drive purchase behavior is essential for health‐oriented product categories. Furthermore, understanding the cost (in terms of consumers' willingness to pay) of specific sensory attributes not being “optimal” may provide more concrete direction to product formulators because willingness to pay is less abstract than more common measures such as overall liking.
Synergistic interaction between diene valepotriates from V
aleriana glechomifolia Meyer (Valerianaceae) and classical antidepressants: an isobolographic analysis
Authors: Müller Liz G , Stolz Eveline D , Betti Andresa H , Herzfeldt Vivian , Rates Stela M K 
Published: April 2015

Abstract

Objectives
Combinations of different classes of antidepressants (including herbal adjuvants) have been used as an alternative means of achieving better results in the treatment of depressed patients. However, studies characterizing the interactions between herbal adjuvants and antidepressants are lacking. This study is the first to investigate the interaction between diene valepotriates (VAL) from Valeriana glechomifolia, a species with antidepressant-like effects, and imipramine (IMI), desipramine (DESI) and bupropion (BUP). The interactions were assessed via isobolographic analyses, which represent a tool for evaluating interactions between drugs.

Methods
The interaction between VAL and each antidepressant was evaluated in mice given concurrent oral administration of each drug with fixed ED50 ratios and subjected to a forced swimming test (FST). Spontaneous locomotion was measured in the open field test.

Key findings
The drug combinations produced a dose-dependent anti-immobility effect in the FST without altering mouse locomotor activity. Isobolographic analysis revealed that VAL resulted in synergistic interactions in combination with each of the antidepressants tested.

Conclusion
The synergistic interactions between VAL and IMI, DESI and BUP highlight the potential for VAL to serve as adjuvants to antidepressant drugs and suggest that VAL does not directly target the same sites on neuronal transporters as the antidepressants.
Enhanced small interfering RNA delivery into cells by exploiting the additive effect between photo-sensitive peptides and targeting ligands
Authors: Lin Wen , Xie Xiangyang , Yang Yanfang , Liu Hui , Fu Xudong , Chen Ying , Liu Hong , Yang Yang 
Published: April 2015

Abstract

Objectives
To enhance the targeting delivery efficiency of small interfering RNA (siRNA) to tumour cells, a novel multifunctional liposome (PSP/NGR-L) comodified with photo-sensitive cell-penetrating peptides (PSP) and asparagine-glycine-arginine peptide (NGR) was constructed and investigated.

Methods
PSP was conjugated to 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-maleimide(polyethylene glycol)-2000 (DSPE-PEG2000-MAL) to generate DSPE-PEG2000-PSP and used to form PSP/NGR-L, the features of the liposomes were determined. HT-1080 and MCF-7 cells were used for cellular uptake tests, and the cellular uptake pathways were identified. Intracellular trafficking and endosomal escape were also evaluated. In-vitro siRNA transfection evaluations were carried out in HT-1080 cells.

Key findings
The encapsulation efficiencies of liposomes were about 80%, and the mean particle sizes were around 100 nm. The targeting specificity of PSP/NGR-L was significantly enhanced via NGR navigation and ultraviolet (UV) light illumination. The internalization of PSP/NGR-L in HT-1080 cells was mediated by more than one cellular uptake mechanisms. The constructed nanocarrier could escape from the endosome to produce its effects in the cellular cytoplasm with the help of UV illumination. PSP/NGR-L could down-regulate expression of c-myc and augmented cell apoptosis in HT-1080 cells.

Conclusions
The application of combined PSP and NGR modifications may be a new approach for the selectively targeted delivery of siRNA to cancer cells.
A conceptual framework for the spatial analysis of functional trait diversity
Authors: Biswas Shekhar R. , Mallik Azim U. , Braithwaite Nicholas T. , Wagner Helene H. 
Published: April 2015

Functional trait diversity is a popular tool in modern ecology, mainly used to infer assembly processes and ecosystem functioning. Patterns of functional trait diversity are shaped by ecological processes such as environmental filtering, species interactions and dispersal that are inherently spatial, and different processes may operate at different spatial scales. Adding a spatial dimension to the analysis of functional trait diversity may thus increase our ability to infer community assembly processes and to predict change in assembly processes following disturbance or land‐use change.Richness, evenness and divergence of functional traits are commonly used indices of functional trait diversity that are known to respond differently to large‐scale filters related to environmental heterogeneity and dispersal and fine‐scale filters related to species interactions (competition). Recent developments in spatial statistics make it possible to separately quantify large‐scale patterns (variation in local means) and fine‐scale patterns (variation around local means) by decomposing overall spatial autocorrelation quantified by Moran's coefficient into its positive and negative components using Moran eigenvector maps (MEM). We thus propose to identify the spatial signature of multiple ecological processes that are potentially acting at different spatial scales by contrasting positive and negative components of spatial autocorrelation for each of the three indices of functional trait diversity.We illustrate this approach with a case study from riparian plant communities, where we test the effects of disturbance on spatial patterns of functional trait diversity. The fine‐scale pattern of all three indices was increased in the disturbed versus control habitat, suggesting an increase in local scale competition and an overall increase in unexplained variance in the post‐disturbance versus control community. Further research using simulation modeling should focus on establishing the proposed link between community assembly rules and spatial patterns of functional trait diversity to maximize our ability to infer multiple processes from spatial community structure.
Production of an active anti‐CD20‐hIL‐2 immunocytokine in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Marusic Carla , Novelli Flavia , Salzano Anna M. , Scaloni Andrea , Benvenuto Eugenio , Pioli Claudio , Donini Marcello 
Published: April 2015

SummaryAnti‐CD20 murine or chimeric antibodies (Abs) have been used to treat non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs) and other diseases characterized by overactive or dysfunctional B cells. Anti‐CD20 Abs demonstrated to be effective in inducing regression of B‐cell lymphomas, although in many cases patients relapse following treatment. A promising approach to improve the outcome of mAb therapy is the use of anti‐CD20 antibodies to deliver cytokines to the tumour microenvironment. In particular, IL‐2‐based immunocytokines have shown enhanced antitumour activity in several preclinical studies. Here, we report on the engineering of an anti‐CD20‐human interleukin‐2 (hIL‐2) immunocytokine (2B8‐Fc‐hIL2) based on the C2B8 mAb (Rituximab) and the resulting ectopic expression in Nicotiana benthamiana. The scFv‐Fc‐engineered immunocytokine is fully assembled in plants with minor degradation products as assessed by SDS‐PAGE and gel filtration. Purification yields using protein‐A affinity chromatography were in the range of 15–20 mg/kg of fresh leaf weight (FW). Glycopeptide analysis confirmed the presence of a highly homogeneous plant‐type glycosylation. 2B8‐Fc‐hIL2 and the cognate 2B8‐Fc antibody, devoid of hIL‐2, were assayed by flow cytometry on Daudi cells revealing a CD20 binding activity comparable to that of Rituximab and were effective in eliciting antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity of human PBMC versus Daudi cells, demonstrating their functional integrity. In 2B8‐Fc‐hIL2, IL‐2 accessibility and biological activity were verified by flow cytometry and cell proliferation assay. To our knowledge, this is the first example of a recombinant immunocytokine based on the therapeutic Rituximab antibody scaffold, whose expression in plants may be a valuable tool for NHLs treatment.