bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Straightforward High‐Pressure Synthesis and Characterization of Indium‐Based Thiospinels: Photocatalytic Potential for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Falcón Horacio , Tartaj Pedro , Vaquero Fernando , Navarro Rufino M. , Fierro Jose Luis G. , Bolletta Juan P. , de Paoli Juan M. , Carbonio Raul E. , Fernández‐Díaz Maria Teresa , Alonso Jose Antonio
Published: March 2016

Ternary chalcogenides (AB2X4) based on the spinel structure are gaining a great deal of attention because of the possibility of tuning their magnetic and optoelectronic properties not only by changing chemical composition but also by altering their degree of inversion. Here we report a rapid high‐pressure synthetic method for the synthesis of MIn2S4 powders starting from commercially available solid sulfides. We prove the versatility of our method by reporting the synthesis of six members of the MIn2S4 family (M = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn, and Cd) under high‐pressure conditions (3.5 GPa); these compounds show complete to moderate degrees of inversion. Furthermore, this family covers a spectral region that includes visible band gaps. Interestingly, the structural refinement carried out by X‐ray and neutron diffraction allows one to establish positive correlations between the gap and different parameters, including the degree of inversion. Finally, as a proof‐of‐concept, these ternary chalcogenides show moderate photocatalytic hydrogen production from aqueous solutions.
Structural Diversity of Tris(2‐hydroxy­aryl)methane‐Derived Aluminium Complexes
Authors: Oishi Masataka , Ichinose Yuri , Nomura Nobuyoshi
Published: March 2016

Tris(2‐hydroxyaryl)methane ligands coordinate to main group and transition metals in a variety of modes. However, for aluminium, only trinuclear complexes have previously been reported. To investigate the possibility of also developing both mono‐ and dinuclear aluminium complexes, the reactions of Et3Al and tris(2‐hydroxyaryl)methanes have been examined under various conditions. In this work, trialuminium complex 1b was formed by disproportionation of the initially generated monomeric complex 2′ (Al/ligand = 1:1) with Et3Al. This reaction allowed us to selectively synthesize aluminium complexes 1b, 2, 5, and 7 with different coordination modes. Furthermore, mononuclear complex 5b underwent rearrangement to yield the tris(aryloxy) complex 8 in C6D6 under the appropriate conditions.
CdP2N4 and MnP2N4 – Ternary Transition‐Metal Nitridophosphates
Authors: Pucher Florian J. , Karau Friedrich W. , Schmedt auf der Günne Jörn , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: March 2016

The ternary transition‐metal nitridophosphates CdP2N4 and MnP2N4 have been synthesized under high‐pressure high‐temperature conditions (5–8 GPa, 1000–1300 °C) by using the multianvil technique. Cd and Mn azides can be used as the starting materials, however, with respect to safety considerations, it is much more advantageous to start from metal powders and phosphorus nitride imide, HPN2. Both nitridophosphates crystallize in a structure closely related to the megacalsilite structure type. As a result of the known issues concerning superstructures with this type of structure, TEM investigations were performed on CdP2N4, which revealed that the megacalsilite superstructure is not equally pronounced in all crystallites. By adding NH4Cl as mineralizer, single crystals were obtained that exhibit unequally pronounced superstructure reflections. Consequently, an averaged structural model was used and refined by the Rietveld method [P6322, a = 16.7197(3), c = 7.6428(2) Å, V = 1850.3(2) Å3, Rp = 0.0671, wRp = 0.0869 for CdP2N4 and P6322, a = 16.5543(2), c = 7.5058(2) Å, V = 1781.3(1) Å3, Rp = 0.0526, wRp = 0.0697 for MnP2N4]. The 31P NMR spectra exhibit four signal groups at (6.4, 4.8), 0.8, and –9.7 ppm with pronounced shoulders belonging to the same phase in an approximate area ratio of 4.8:1.1:2.0, thereby proving at least eight P sites.
Hyperfine Interactions and Metal Atom Dynamics in a Number of Stannyl Phosphide Compounds and the Detailed Crystal Structure of Triphenyltin Chloride Revisited
Authors: Bogoslavsky Benny , Nowik Israel , Herber Rolfe H.
Published: March 2016

Temperature‐dependent 119Sn Mössbauer effect (ME) spectroscopy has been used to elucidate the hyperfine parameters (isomer shift and quadrupole splitting) as well as the dynamics of the motion of tin in three triphenyltin phosphide complexes, namely P(SnPh3)3 (C54H45PSn3, 1), P7(SnPh3)3 (C54H45P7Sn3, 2), and [Na(benzo‐15‐crown‐5)][P(SnPh3)2] (C50H50NaO5PSn2, 3), as well as in triphenyltin chloride (4). Although the isomer shifts are very similar for all four compounds, the quadrupole splitting is dependent upon their detailed structures. The metal atom vibrations are essentially isotropic with respect to the principal symmetry axis passing through the tin atom and the triphenyltin moiety. The crystal structure of triphenyltin chloride has been re‐determined at four different temperatures, and the root‐mean‐square amplitudes‐of‐vibration of the metal atom have been evaluated from the crystallographic Ui,j values and compared with the corresponding data derived from the Mössbauer measurements. These metal atom dynamics have been compared with those of the stannyl phosphide complexes derived from ME data and related to their structural details. The sensitivity of the ME technique with respect to elucidating the metal atom dynamics is demonstrated in detail.
Electrochemical Biosensor Utilizing Supramolecular Association of Enzyme on Sol−gel Matrix Embedded Gold Nanoparticles Supported Reduced Graphene Oxide−cyclodextrin Nanocomposite
Authors: Manivannan Shanmugam , Kim Kyuwon
Published: March 2016

Herein we present β‐cyclodextrin (CD)‐functionalized reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanosheets supported on silicate sol‐gel matrix‐embedded gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) modified electrode as a new affinity binding nanocomposite. The modified electrode is fabricated through layer‐by‐layer drop casting followed by immobilization of chemically modified enzyme conjugate (horse radish peroxidase (HRP)−adamantane carboxylic acid (ADA)). This affinity system is based on the supramolecular association between CDs and HRP−ADA and is mimicking the biological avidin−biotin interactions. CDs‐functionalized RGO (RGO−CD) functions as a macrocyclic host to form stable supramolecular inclusion complexes with enzyme conjugate. Besides Au NPs improve the interfacial interaction with RGO−CD nanosheets, and thus exhibit synergistic electrocatalytic effect toward H2O2 reduction in the presence of 1 mM hydroquinone.
Application of the TGx‐28.65 transcriptomic biomarker to classify genotoxic and non‐genotoxic chemicals in human TK6 cells in the presence of rat liver S9
Authors: Yauk Carole L. , Buick Julie K. , Williams Andrew , Swartz Carol D. , Recio Leslie , Li Heng‐Hong , Fornace Albert J. , Thomson Errol M. , Aubrecht Jiri
Published: March 2016

In vitro transcriptional signatures that predict toxicities can facilitate chemical screening. We previously developed a transcriptomic biomarker (known as TGx‐28.65) for classifying agents as genotoxic (DNA damaging) and non‐genotoxic in human lymphoblastoid TK6 cells. Because TK6 cells do not express cytochrome P450s, we confirmed accurate classification by the biomarker in cells co‐exposed to 1% 5,6 benzoflavone/phenobarbital‐induced rat liver S9 for metabolic activation. However, chemicals may require different types of S9 for activation. Here we investigated the response of TK6 cells to higher percentages of Aroclor‐, benzoflavone/phenobarbital‐, or ethanol‐induced rat liver S9 to expand TGx‐28.65 biomarker applicability. Transcriptional profiles were derived 3 to 4 hr following a 4 hr co‐exposure of TK6 cells to test chemicals and S9. Preliminary studies established that 10% Aroclor‐ and 5% ethanol‐induced S9 alone did not induce the TGx‐28.65 biomarker genes. Seven genotoxic and two non‐genotoxic chemicals (and concurrent solvent and positive controls) were then tested with one of the S9s (selected based on cell survival and micronucleus induction). Relative survival and micronucleus frequency was assessed by flow cytometry in cells 20 hr post‐exposure. Genotoxic/non‐genotoxic chemicals were accurately classified using the different S9s. One technical replicate of cells co‐treated with dexamethasone and 10% Aroclor‐induced S9 was falsely classified as genotoxic, suggesting caution in using high S9 concentrations. Even low concentrations of genotoxic chemicals (those not causing cytotoxicity) were correctly classified, demonstrating that TGx‐28.65 is a sensitive biomarker of genotoxicity. A meta‐analysis of datasets from 13 chemicals supports that different S9s can be used in TK6 cells, without impairing classification using the TGx‐28.65 biomarker. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:243–260, 2016. © 2016 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada. Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis © 2016 Environmental Mutagen Society
Oxidation of mixtures of ethyl acetate and butyl acetate over cryptomelane and the effect of water vapor
Authors: Soares O.S.G.P. , Órfão J.J.M. , Figueiredo J.L. , Pereira M.F.R.
Published: March 2016

The catalytic oxidation of binary VOC mixtures, ethyl acetate, and butyl acetate, and the effect of water vapor on their oxidation, was studied over manganese oxide–cryptomelane‐type catalyst. This catalyst, prepared by a novel solid‐state reaction with ball milling, was shown to be very active for the oxidation of ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, promoting their complete oxidation at relatively low temperatures, the CO2 yield being influenced by the type of VOC. The mixture with equal amounts of each ester shows a light‐off curve similar to that observed for butyl acetate alone, but the light‐off curves are shifted to higher temperatures when different proportions of these VOCs are present in the mixture. When processing VOC mixtures, the temperature required for 100% CO2 yield depends on the VOC, which is in larger amount. Water vapor also has a significant effect on the oxidation of these VOCs, particularly in the case of ethyl acetate. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 1324–1329, 2016
Bambara–wheat composite flour: rheological behavior of dough and functionality in bread
Authors: Erukainure Ochuko L. , Okafor Jane N.C. , Ogunji Akinyele , Ukazu Happiness , Okafor Ebele N. , Eboagwu Ijeoma L.
Published: March 2016

The rheological behavior and functional properties of doughs from bambara–wheat composite flour was investigated. Bambara–wheat composite flour was prepared by substituting wheat with 0%, 10%, 15%, and 20% of bambara flour. The rheological behavior of their dough was analyzed with Mixolab. Breads produced from the flour were analyzed for physical characteristics. Organoleptic analysis was carried out by 20 panelists. Mixolab analysis revealed, except for stability time, depreciating values for dough consistency (C1), protein weakening (C2), starch gelatinization (C3), amylase activity (C4), and retrogradation (C5) as the inclusion of bambara flour increased. Physical characteristics of the loaves revealed significant (P < 0.05) decreasing bread volume and increasing specific volume, respectively, as bambara inclusion increased. There was significant (P < 0.05) difference between wheat bread and the bambara–wheat composites in all the studied quality attributes. 15% bambara–wheat composite bread was the most accepted amongst the composite breads. Inclusion of bambara flour improved the protein behavior of the composite, but did not evidently show benefits in the baking characteristics.
Risk of hepatocellular carcinoma after sustained virological response in Veterans with hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: El‐Serag Hashem B. , Kanwal Fasiha , Richardson Peter , Kramer Jennifer
Published: March 2016

The long‐term prognosis in terms of risk or predictors of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among patients with sustained virological response (SVR) remains unclear. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from the Veterans Affairs VA hepatitis C virus (HCV) Clinical Case Registry in patients with positive HCV RNA between October 1999 and August 2009 and follow‐up through December 2010. HCV treatment (interferon with or without ribavirin) and SVR (RNA test negative at least 12 weeks after the end of treatment) were determined. We used Cox's proportional hazards models to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for potential predictors (demographic, virological, and clinical) associated with HCC development post‐SVR. We identified 33,005 HCV‐infected individuals who received treatment, of whom 10,817 achieved SVR. Among these patients, 100 developed new HCC during a total follow‐up of 30,562 person‐years for an overall incidence rate of 0.33% per year. Annual risk of HCC remained considerably high among patients with cirrhosis (1.39%) and those cured after age 64 (0.95%). Patients with diabetes (adjusted HR = 1.88; 1.21‐2.91) or genotype 3 infection (adjusted HR = 1.62; 0.96‐2.734) were significantly more likely to develop HCC. Conclusions: Risk of HCC after HCV cure, though considerably reduced, remains relatively high at 0.33% per year. Older age and/or presence of cirrhosis at the time of SVR are associated with a high enough risk to warrant surveillance. Diabetes is also a risk factor for post‐SVR HCC. (Hepatology 2016;64:130–137)
Particulate carbon and nitrogen dynamics in a headwater catchment in Northern Thailand: hysteresis, high yields, and hot spots
Authors: Ziegler Alan D. , Benner Shawn G. , Kunkel Melvin L. , Phang Valerie X.H. , Lupascu Massimo , Tantasirin Chatchai
Published: March 2016

Rivers of South and Southeast Asia disgorge large suspended sediment loads, reflecting exceptionally high rates of erosion promoted by natural processes (tectonic and climatic) and anthropogenic (land‐use change) activities that are characteristic of the region. While particulate carbon and nitrogen fluxes have been characterized in some large Asian rivers, less is known about the headwater systems where much sediment and organic material are initially mobilized. This study, conducted in the 74‐km2 Mae Sa Experimental Catchment in northern Thailand, shows that the Sa River is an important source for particulate organic carbon (POC) and particulate organic nitrogen (PON) transported to larger river systems and downstream reservoirs. However, the yields during three years of investigation varied greatly: 5.0–22.3 Mg POC km−2 y−1 and 0.48–2.02 Mg PON km−2 y−1. The 22.3 Mg POC km−2 y−1 yield is the highest reported for any river on the Asian continent. Stream samples collected during 12 storms showed that almost 3% of the total suspended solid load is POC 0.7 µm to 2.0 mm in size. This percentage is higher than other values for most large rivers on the continent. Further, we documented a strong pulse hysteretic behaviour in the stream, whereby peak fluxes of POC and PON are often delayed (anticlockwise hysteresis) or accelerated (clockwise hysteresis) relative to stream flow peaks (or are complex), complicating the prediction of storm‐based or annual particulate carbon and nitrogen fluxes. Stream turbidity and total suspended sediment are reasonable proxies for POC and PON concentrations, while stream discharge is not a good predictor variable. Observed C:N ratios for measured particulate samples range from 3 to 83, with the high‐end values likely associated with fresh (non‐decomposed) vegetative material greater than 2 mm in diameter. The C:N ratio (weighted based on three sediment sizes) for 12 events ranges from 7.5 to 15.3. These modest values reflect the relatively low C:N ratios for small size fractions (0.7–0.63 µm) that comprise 50–90% of the TSS load in the events. Overall, organic material <0.63 µm contribute about 75% of the total POC load and 80% of the PON load. The annual C:N ratio for the river is approximately 10–11. Collectively, our findings indicate the occasionally high yields make the Sa River—and potentially other similar headwater rivers—a hot spot for POC and PON transported to downstream water bodies. Complex hysteresis patterns and high year‐to‐year variability hinders our ability to calculate and predict these yields without continuous, automated monitoring of discharge and turbidity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
BRCA1‐like profile predicts benefit of tandem high dose epirubicin‐cyclophospamide‐thiotepa in high risk breast cancer patients randomized in the WSG‐AM01 trial
Authors: Schouten Philip C. , Gluz Oleg , Harbeck Nadia , Mohrmann Svjetlana , Diallo‐Danebrock Raihana , Pelz Enrico , Kruizinga Janneke , Velds Arno , Nieuwland Marja , Kerkhoven Ron M. , Liedtke Cornelia , Frick Markus , Kates Ronald , Linn Sabine C. , Nitz Ulrike , Marme Frederik
Published: March 2016

BRCA1 is an important protein in the repair of DNA double strand breaks (DSBs), which are induced by alkylating chemotherapy. A BRCA1‐like DNA copy number signature derived from tumors with a BRCA1 mutation is indicative for impaired BRCA1 function and associated with good outcome after high dose (HD) and tandem HD DSB inducing chemotherapy. We investigated whether BRCA1‐like status was a predictive biomarker in the WSG AM 01 trial. WSG AM 01 randomized high‐risk breast cancer patients to induction (2× epirubicin‐cyclophosphamide) followed by tandem HD chemotherapy with epirubicin, cyclophosphamide and thiotepa versus dose dense chemotherapy (4× epirubicin‐cyclophospamide followed by 3× cyclophosphamide‐methotrexate‐5‐fluorouracil). We generated copy number profiles for 143 tumors and classified them as being BRCA1‐like or non‐BRCA1‐like. Twenty‐six out of 143 patients were BRCA1‐like. BRCA1‐like status was associated with high grade and triple negative tumors. With regard to event‐free‐survival, the primary endpoint of the trial, patients with a BRCA1‐like tumor had a hazard rate of 0.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.07–0.63, p = 0.006. In the interaction analysis, the combination of BRCA1‐like status and HD chemotherapy had a hazard rate of 0.19, 95% CI: 0.067–0.54, p = 0.003. Similar results were observed for overall survival. These findings suggest that BRCA1‐like status is a predictor for benefit of tandem HD chemotherapy with epirubicin‐thiotepa‐cyclophosphamide.
Phospholipidomic Profile Variation on THP‐1 Cells Exposed to Skin or Respiratory Sensitizers and Respiratory Irritant
Authors: Martins João D. , Maciel Elisabete A. , Silva Ana , Ferreira Isabel , Ricardo Fernando , Domingues Pedro , Neves Bruno M. , Domingues Maria Rosário M. , Cruz Maria Teresa
Published: March 2016

Occupational exposure to low molecular weight reactive chemicals often leads to development of allergic reactions such as allergic contact dermatitis and respiratory allergies. Further insights into the interaction of these chemicals with physiopathological relevant cellular models might provide the foundations for novel non‐animal approaches to safety assessment. In this work we used the human THP‐1 cell line to determine phospholipidome changes induced by the skin sensitizer 1‐fluoro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene (DNFB), the respiratory allergen hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), and the irritant methyl salicylate (MESA). We detected that these chemicals differently induce lipid peroxidation and modulate THP‐1 IL‐1β, IL‐12B, IL‐8, CD86, and HMOX1 transcription. Decreased phosphatidylethanolamine content was detected in cells exposed to MESA, while profound alterations in the relative abundance of cardiolipin species were observed in cells exposed to DNFB. All chemicals tested induced a decrease in the relative abundance of plasmanyl phosphatidylcholine species PC (O‐16:0e/18:1) and phosphatidylinositol species PI (34:1), while increasing PI (38:4). An increased abundance of oleic acid was observed in the phospholipids of cells exposed to DNFB while a decreased abundance of palmitic acid was detected in cells treated with MESA or DNFB. We conclude that both specific and common alterations at phospholipidome levels are triggered by the different chemicals, while not allowing a complete distinction between them using a Canonical Analysis of Principal Coordinates (CAP). The common effects observed at phospholipids level with all the chemicals tested might be related to unspecific cell cytotoxic mechanisms that nevertheless may contribute to the elicitation of specific immune responses. J. Cell. Physiol. 231: 2639–2651, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Survey results on daily practice in open and laparoscopic liver resections from 27 centers participating in the second International Consensus Conference
Authors: Kawaguchi Yoshikuni , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Wakabayashi Go , Cherqui Daniel , Geller David A. , Buell Joseph F. , Kaneko Hironori , Han Ho‐Seong , Strasberg Steven M. , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: March 2016

Background

The proportions of laparoscopic approach and surgical procedures in liver resections have been unknown in clinical practice. The aim of this study is to investigate liver resections performed in select centers worldwide and analyze the ratios of laparoscopic approach, major liver resection, and left lateral sectionectomy.

Methods

A questionnaire‐based survey on proportions of liver resections performed between 2008 and 2013 was conducted. The data collected from 27 respondents, which joined the conference committee of the second International Consensus Conference on Laparoscopic Liver Resection (LLR), were analyzed by the working group.

Results

Between 2008 and 2013, 11,712 liver resections were performed in the 27 centers. Of all of these liver resections, laparoscopic approach was selected in 32.1% (n = 3,765), whereas open approach was selected in 67.9% (n = 7,947). The ratio of laparoscopic approach taken in all left lateral sectionectomy (61.8%) is higher, compared with that of laparoscopic approach taken in all liver resections (32.1%), in all minor liver resections (35.9%), and in all major liver resections (24.8%).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic approach was clinically chosen for approximately 30% of all liver resections and for more than 60% of left lateral sectionectomy in selected centers worldwide.
Role of intratumoral infiltrating macrophages after transarterial immunoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kenjo Akira , Sato Tetsu , Marubashi Shigeru , Saito Takuro , Tsuchiya Takao , Kimura Takashi , Sato Naoya , Takahashi Atsushi , Ohira Hiromasa , Gotoh Mitsukazu
Published: March 2016

Background

Preoperative transarterial immunoembolization (TIE) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is effective for preventing recurrence. We aimed to investigate the intratumoral and peritumoral M1 macrophage‐induced immune response following TIE treatment.

Methods

We compared 13 patients treated with TIE between 2003 and 2009 (TIE group) and 13 patients treated with surgery alone during the same period of time at our institute (control group) using an immunohistological study with CD68 and CD163 antibodies.

Results

No significant differences in clinicopathological characteristics, except for surgical time, were observed between the two groups. The 3‐year recurrence‐free survival outcome of the TIE group was quite different from that of the control group (100% vs. 38.5%, P = 0.034). In the histological investigation, lytic necrosis and coagulation necrosis of the main tumor along with the presence of multinuclear giant cells were observed in 10 of the 13 patients in the TIE group. The immunohistological study showed that not only the numbers of intratumoral CD68+ cells, but also the numbers of intratumoral and peritumoral CD8+ cells were significantly increased in the TIE group.

Conclusions

The suppression of tumor recurrence induced by preoperative TIE might be induced by intratumoral M1 macrophages that are activated by OK‐432 and fibrinogen.
Native myocardial longitudinal (T1) relaxation time: Regional, age, and sex associations in the healthy adult heart
Authors: Rauhalammi Samuli M.O. , Mangion Kenneth , Barrientos Pauline Hall , Carrick David J.A. , Clerfond Guillaume , McClure John , McComb Christie , Radjenovic Aleksandra , Berry Colin
Published: March 2016

Purpose

To use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at two field strengths to assess healthy adults' regional myocardial noncontrast (native) T1 relaxation time distribution, and global myocardial native T1 between sexes and across age groups.

Materials and Methods

In all, 84 healthy volunteers underwent MRI at 1.5T and 3.0T. T1 maps were acquired in three left ventricular short axis slices using an optimized modified Look–Locker inversion recovery investigational prototype sequence. T1 measurements in msec were calculated from 16 regions‐of‐interest, and a global T1 value from all evaluable segments per subject. Associations were assessed with a multivariate linear regression model.

Results

In total, 1297 (96.5%) segments were evaluable at 1.5T and 1263 (94.0%) segments at 3.0T. Native T1 was higher in septal than lateral myocardium (1.5T: 956.3 ± 44.4 vs. 939.2 ± 54.2 msec; P < 0.001; 3.0T: 1158.2 ± 45.9 vs. 1148.9 ± 56.9 msec; P = 0.012). Native T1 decreased with increasing age in females but not in males. Among lowest age tertile (<33 years) global native T1 was higher in females than in males at 1.5T (960.0 ± 20.3 vs. 931.5 ± 22.2 msec, respectively; P = 0.003) and 3.0T (1166.5 ± 19.7 vs. 1130.2 ± 20.6 msec; P < 0.001). No sex differences were observed in upper age tertile (≥55 years) at 1.5T (937.7 ± 25.4 vs. 934.7 ± 22.3 msec; P = 0.762) or 3.0T (1153.0 ± 30.0 vs. 1132.3 ± 23.5 msec; P = 0.056). Association of global native T1 to age (P = 0.002) and sex (P < 0.001) was independent of field strength and body size.

Conclusion

In healthy adults, native T1 values are highest in the ventricular septum. Global native T1 was inversely associated with age in women, but not in men. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:541–548.
Molecular epidemiology of rotavirus in four provinces of Angola before vaccine introduction
Authors: Esteves Aida , Nordgren Johan , Pereira Joana , Fortes Filomeno , Dimbu Rafael , Saraiva Nilton , Mendes Cristina , Istrate Claudia
Published: March 2016

Angola is a sub‐Saharan country in southern Africa highly affected by diarrhoeal disease with limited epidemiological data regarding etiologic agents. This study was performed during 2012–2013, prior to rotavirus vaccine introduction, with the objective to detect and characterize the rotavirus strains circulating in four provinces of the country: Huambo, Luanda, Zaire, and Cabinda. A high rotavirus detection rate (35%, 117/334) was observed. G1 was the most common G‐genotype (83.6%), whereas P[8] (50.9%) followed by P[6] (38.8%) were the most common P‐types. G1P[8] was identified as the predominant combination (50%), followed by the unusual G1P[6] (29.3%). Strains such G2P[4], G8P[6], G9P[6], and G12P[6] were also found in lower frequencies (5.2–1.7%). The P[6] strains did not cluster in the phylogenetic trees according to their geographic origin or even the corresponding G‐genotype, suggesting a limited number of recent introductions and extensive reassortment events. Our results represent the first report on rotavirus genotype profiles in Angola, showing a wide circulation of the unusual genotype G1P[6], and underline the importance of RV surveillance after the vaccine introduction. J. Med. Virol. 88:1511–1520, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Emergence of GII.Pg norovirus in gastroenteritis outbreaks in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Bruggink Leesa D. , Dunbar Natalie L. , Marshall John A.
Published: March 2016

The ORF 1 GII.Pg genotype represents an obligatory recombinant comprising the ORF 1 GII.Pg genotype and a number of ORF 2 genotypes. The emergence, incidence, and molecular features of GII.Pg norovirus have never been considered in detail and are the subject of the current study. Over the period 2002–2013, GII.Pg norovirus was detected in 16 outbreaks in Victoria, Australia. It was first identified in 2009 and thereafter was detected at low level in each year of the study. GII.Pg norovirus outbreaks occurred in both healthcare and non‐healthcare settings and could be found in individuals with a broad range of ages. The seasonality of GII.Pg norovirus outbreaks was significantly different from that of all other (non‐GII.Pg) norovirus outbreaks. For the 15 GII.Pg norovirus outbreaks where ORF 2 sequencing data were available, two ORF 2 recombinant genotypes were found: GII.1 in 5 (33%) outbreaks and GII.12 in 10 (67%) outbreaks. The ORF 1 phylogenetic tree shows that the GII.Pg ORF 1 genotype fell into two distinct groups. The ORF 2 phylogenetic tree indicates that the GII.1 and GII.12 clusters each corresponded to one of the groups in the ORF 1 tree. This indicates the two recombinant forms were evolving in parallel and not one from the other. Analysis of age data indicates the GII.1 and GII.12 recombinant forms circulated in different ways in the community. J. Med. Virol. 88:1521–1528, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of inflammasome genetics in susceptibility to HPV infection and cervical cancer development
Authors: Pontillo A. , Bricher P. , Leal V.N.C. , Lima S. , Souza P.R.E. , Crovella S.
Published: March 2016

Problem: Only a small proportion of HPV+ women develop virus‐associated lesions and cervical cancer, suggesting that other factors are involved in HPV+ keratinocyte transformation. Immune response plays an important role in clearing HPV infection, and host genetic variants resulting in defective immune response have been associated with virus persistence and/or cervical cancer. Considering that genetic variations in inflammasome genes were previously associated with viral infection and cancer development, the present study investigates selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in inflammasome genes as a possible risk factor for HPV infection susceptibility and/or for progression to cervical cancer. Patients and methods: 12 SNPs in seven inflammasome‐related genes (NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRP6, CARD8, IL1B, IL18, TNFAIP3) were genotyped in a Brazilian HPV+ case/control cohort (n = 246/310). Multivariate analysis was performed in case/control as well as in HPV+ women stratified by the presence or severity of histologic lesion, HPV persistence, and type of virus. Results: IL1B rs1143643 was associated with protection against HPV infection in case/control analysis. NLRP1 rs11651270 plays a protection role against HPV persistence and/or oncogenesis. NLRP3 rs10754558 and IL18 rs1834481 exert a beneficial role against HPV persistence. NLRP3 rs10754558 variant resulted significantly associated with a lower risk to be infected with a high‐risk HPV. Conclusion: Our findings for the first time demonstrated that inflammasome genetics could affect HPV/host interaction in terms of virus susceptibility as well as of virus/persistence and cervical cancer progression. J. Med. Virol. 88:1646–1651, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Physiologically induced changes in bound phenolics and antioxidants, DNA/cytoprotective potentials in pectic poly/oligosaccharides of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Kapoor Sabeeta , Dharmesh Shylaja M
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND

Antioxidant, cyto/DNA protective potentials are known to offer significant protection against free radical induced injury to cells or tissues and cellular damages that are envisaged in various diseases including chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, etc, while galectin‐3 inhibitory potentials are known to block or delay the process of metastasis in cancer. Antioxidant, cyto/DNA protection and galectin‐3 inhibitory potentials were examined in pectic polysaccharides (PPs) and pectic oligosaccharides (POs) from four types of two varieties of tomatoes such as Sour (Mallika local variety) raw (SrRT–SrRTPP, SrRTPO), Sour ripe (SrRIT–SrRITPP, SrRITPO), Sweet (Rashmi local variety) raw (SwRT–SwRTPP, SwRTPO) and Sweet ripe (SwRIT–SwRITPP and SwRITPO).

RESULTS

Results indicate that unripe PPs and POs show approximately four‐ to five‐fold better galectin‐3 inhibitory property than ripe ones. An approximately nine‐ to 10‐fold increase in galectin‐3 inhibitory activity in sour variety was observed. The IC50 as determined by free radical scavenging (FRS), red blood cell (RBC) and DNA protection assays revealed reduction in FRS and RBC protective potencies in pectic oligosaccharides (POs) than pectic polysaccharides (PPs), supporting the fact that phenolics contribute towards these activities. Loss of activity could be attributed to the hydrolysis of certain phenolics during the ripening process as well as during conversion of PPs to POs.

CONCLUSION

This study, for the first time, showed changes in bioactivity profiling in unripened and ripened conditions in tomato. Precise alterations in biomolecular components, such as bound cinnamyl/ferulyl and vanillic acid derivatives, along with alterations in sugar composition that reflect changes in antioxidants, cyto/DNA protective and antimetastatic potentials, have been delineated. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Chemical Modification, Thermal Characterization and Dielectric Spectroscopy of Polystyrene‐block‐Polyisoprene Diblock Copolymers
Authors: Georgopanos Prokopios , Filiz Volkan , Handge Ulrich A. , Abetz Volker
Published: March 2016

In this work, synthesis and chemical modification of a polystyrene‐block‐polyisoprene (PS‐b‐PI) diblock copolymer is presented. The modification reactions result in hydroxyl, amine, and carboxyl end‐functional groups, respectively. Thermal analysis reveals a shift of the glass transition temperature of the polystyrene block to lower temperatures with respect to the polystyrene precursor because of the partial miscibility of the PS and the PI blocks. Comparing the glass transition temperature of the PS block of the three different end‐functionalized diblock copolymers, the analysis in this work shows that a large end‐group (i.e., the amine end‐group) yields a lower glass transition temperature of the polystyrene block. The modified diblock copolymers were characterized by means of broadband dielectric spectroscopy in order to compare the results of thermal analysis and to monitor the dielectric relaxation behavior which is associated with the different end‐functional groups. Comparing the dielectric loss of the pristine and the functionalized diblock copolymers, the segmental relaxation of the PS microphase is significantly influenced by the presence of these polar end‐functional groups.

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The Interaction of CORM‐2 with Block Copolymers Containing Poly(4‐vinylpyridine): Macromolecular Scaffolds for Carbon Monoxide Delivery in Biological Systems
Authors: Nguyen Diep , Adnan Nik Nik M. , Oliver Susan , Boyer Cyrille
Published: March 2016

CORM‐2, tricarbonyldichlororuthenium(II) dimer (Ru2Cl4(CO)6), is a common carbon monoxide releasing molecule (CORM) studied both in vitro and in vivo, but this compound possesses poor water solubility and a short half‐life, which hinders its clinical development. Herein, for the first time the conjugation of CORM‐2 is reported with a copolymer containing poly(4‐vinylpyridine) to yield water‐soluble CO‐releasing polymeric nanoparticles. CORM‐2 is rapidly conjugated to copolymers through pyridine groups as confirmed by inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy. In comparison with free CORM‐2, the copolymers functionalized with CORM‐2 display better water solubility and the CO release from the polymer‐based CORM is slow and sustained. This study paves the way for the potential use of a copolymer encapsulating CORM‐2 as a therapeutic agent.

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Glycation in Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Vicente Miranda Hugo , El‐Agnaf Omar M. A. , Outeiro Tiago Fleming
Published: March 2016

Glycation is a spontaneous age‐dependent posttranslational modification that can impact the structure and function of several proteins. Interestingly, glycation can be detected at the periphery of Lewy bodies in the brain in Parkinson's disease. Moreover, α‐synuclein can be glycated, at least under experimental conditions. In Alzheimer's disease, glycation of amyloid β peptide exacerbates its toxicity and contributes to neurodegeneration. Recent studies establish diabetes mellitus as a risk factor for several neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. However, the mechanisms underlying this connection remain unclear. We hypothesize that hyperglycemia might play an important role in the development of these disorders, possibly by also inducing protein glycation and thereby dysfunction, aggregation, and deposition. Here, we explore protein glycation as a common player in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases and propose it may constitute a novel target for the development of strategies for neuroprotective therapeutic interventions. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Simultaneous dynamic R2, and measurement using periodic π pulse shifting multiecho asymmetric spin echo sequence moving estimation strategy: A feasibility study for lower extremity muscle
Authors: Wang Chengyan , Zhang Rui , Zhang Xiaodong , Wang He , Zhao Kai , Jin Lixin , Zhang Jue , Wang Xiaoying , Fang Jing
Published: March 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of simultaneous dynamic R2,
, and
measurement of lower extremity muscle by means of a new method in which the periodic π pulse shifting multiecho asymmetric spin echo (psMASE) sequence is adopted together with a moving estimation (ME) strategy.

Theory and Methods

The psMASE sequence is a modification of the multiecho asymmetric spin echo sequence determined by shifting the 180 ° refocusing pulse periodically. ME strategy is introduced to improve the temporal resolution of the simultaneous dynamic measurement of R2,
, and
. Reproducibility measurements and comparison with reference methods were conducted. Furthermore, this method was tested on 10 healthy volunteers with the dynamic imaging of lower extremity muscles during a cuff occlusion release paradigm.

Results

Both phantom and in vivo comparisons demonstrated that psMASE‐ME–based R2 and
had good agreement with those calculated by multiecho spin echo and gradient echo sequences. Scan–rescan tests showed good reproducibility. Moreover, muscle R2,
, and
increased obviously from rest to cuff occlusion and decreased significantly after cuff release.

Conclusion

It is feasible to obtain high temporally resolved R2,
, and
simultaneously with the proposed psMASE‐ME method. Magn Reson Med 77:766–773, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
A microscale mesh numerical method for simulating tribological characteristics of sealing materials
Authors: Gong Ran , Zhang He , Che Huajun , Zhu Maotao , Xu Yi
Published: March 2016

A numerical method based on the movable cellular automata (MCA) is presented. The proposed method aims to investigate the tribological characteristics of polytetrafluoroethylene, polyimide, and polyetheretherketone sealing polymer materials in the microscale. The microscale frictional behavior and wear processes of four sealing materials are vividly shown through this grid method. The formation of a mechanically mixed layer is visualized, and the rotation angles of the automata and number of worn cellular automata are obtained. Friction coefficients of the four sealing materials are calculated and compared on a microscale mesh. Tests are conducted on a special test rig of the seal. Scanning electron microscopy investigations reveal the wear patterns of the four sealing composites. Results indicate that the MCA simulations are consistent with the scanning electron microscopy investigations in terms of the wear mechanism. The proposed MCA method can be used to investigate and compare the tribological characteristics of different sealing materials, which will significantly improve the efficiency of sealing material selection. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shared decision‐making on a ‘life‐and‐care plan’ in long‐term care facilities: research protocol
Authors: Mariani Elena , Engels Yvonne , Koopmans Raymond , Chattat Rabih , Vernooij‐Dassen Myrra
Published: March 2016

Aim

To determine whether the number of residents' preferences and needs together with the actions taken to satisfy them recorded into their ‘life‐and‐care plans’ will increase and the process of shared decision‐making will improve the residents' psychosocial well‐being.

Background

Shared decision‐making is defined as a process where healthcare professionals and patients make decisions together, using the best available evidence.

The aims of the present study were to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an SDM framework for care planning in long‐term care facilities and its potential effectiveness on the proportion of dementia residents whose own preferences and needs and the related actions, are known, satisfied and documented in their ‘life‐and‐care plans’.

Design

The current project is a feasibility trial and it was approved in November 2013.

Methods

Research subjects are triads composed of the resident with dementia, a family caregiver and the professional usually taking care for the resident. Professional caregivers of two nursing homes, one located in Italy and one in the Netherlands, will receive a specific training in SDM principles and will guide the SDM interview in the triad. The primary outcome will be the proportion of residents whose preferences and needs, together with the related actions to meet them, are known, documented and satisfied in their ‘life‐and‐care plans’.

Trial registration

NCT02118701.
Novel Oral Therapies for Opioid‐induced Bowel Dysfunction in Patients with Chronic Noncancer Pain
Authors: Holder Renee M. , Rhee Diane
Published: March 2016

Opioid analgesics are frequently prescribed and play an important role in chronic pain management. Opioid‐induced bowel dysfunction, which includes constipation, hardened stool, incomplete evacuation, gas, and nausea and vomiting, is the most common adverse event associated with opioid use. Mu‐opioid receptors are specifically responsible for opioid‐induced bowel dysfunction, resulting in reduced peristaltic and secretory actions. Agents that reverse these actions in the bowel without reversing pain control in the central nervous system may be preferred over traditional laxatives. The efficacy and safety of these agents in chronic noncancer pain were assessed from publications identified through Ovid and PubMed database searches. Trials that evaluated the safety and efficacy of oral agents for opioid‐induced constipation or opioid‐induced bowel dysfunction, excluding laxatives, were reviewed. Lubiprostone and naloxegol are approved in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration for use in opioid‐induced constipation. Axelopran (TD‐1211) and sustained‐release naloxone have undergone phase 2 and phase 1 studies, respectively, for the same indication. Naloxegol and axelopran are peripherally acting μ‐opioid receptor antagonists. Naloxone essentially functions as a peripherally acting μ‐opioid receptor antagonist when administered orally in a sustained‐release formulation. Lubiprostone is a locally acting chloride channel (CIC‐2) activator that increases secretions and peristalsis. All agents increase spontaneous bowel movements and reduce other bowel symptoms compared with placebo in patients with noncancer pain who are chronic opioid users. The most common adverse events were gastrointestinal in nature, and none of the drugs were associated with severe adverse or cardiovascular events. Investigations comparing these agents to regimens using standard laxative and combination therapy and trials in special populations and patients with active cancer are needed to further define their role in therapy.
Medication Discrepancies Associated With a Medication Reconciliation Program and Clinical Outcomes After Hospital Discharge
Authors: Shiu Jennifer R. , Fradette Miriam , Padwal Raj S. , Majumdar Sumit R. , Youngson Erik , Bakal Jeffrey A. , McAlister Finlay A.
Published: March 2016

Study Objective

To identify the frequency of unintended medication discrepancies 30 days postdischarge from medicine wards with interprofessional medication reconciliation processes and clinical import.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of adults discharged between October 2013 and November 2014 from two teaching hospitals in Edmonton, Canada. The Best Possible Medication Discharge Plan (BPMDP) was prepared for all patients. Patients were called 30 days postdischarge to determine the medication discrepancy rate from the BPMDP and whether this was intentional or unintentional; three clinicians used standardized criteria to determine if the discrepancy was inconsequential. Electronic health records and patient contact were used to ascertain death, hospital readmissions, and emergency department (ED) visits at 90 days.

Results

Of 433 patients (mean age 64 yrs, 52% female, median discharge prescriptions 6 [interquartile range 4–9]), 168 (38.8%) had at least one unintentional medication discrepancy at 30 days (325 total discrepancies; median one [interquartile range 1–2 discrepancies per patient]). Patients with unintentional medication discrepancies were older (65.9 vs 61.9 yrs, p=0.03) with more discharge medications (7 vs 6, p=0.03). Most unintentional discrepancies (91.1%) were judged inconsequential. The presence of an unintentional medication discrepancy was not associated with 90‐day readmission or death (42/167 [25.1%] vs 64/263 [24.3%], adjusted odds ratio 0.96 [95% confidence interval 0.60–1.54]) or ED visits (69 [41.3%] vs 101 [38.4%], adjusted odds ratio 1.11 [95% confidence interval 0.74–1.67].

Conclusion

Despite the presence of an interprofessional medication reconciliation process, over one‐third of patients had a medication discrepancy within 30 days of discharge, although most were inconsequential and there was no association between unintended medication discrepancies and risk of readmission, ED visit, or death 3 months after discharge.
Poly(lactic acid)‐based nanocomposites filled with cellulose nanocrystals with modified surface: all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Glova Artem D , Falkovich Stanislav G , Larin Sergey V , Mezhenskaia Daria A , Lukasheva Natalia V , Nazarychev Victor M , Tolmachev Dmitrii A , Mercurieva Anna A , Kenny José M , Lyulin Sergey V
Published: March 2016

Polymer bio‐nanocomposites are widely used nowadays in various applications. One of the most promising polymers for producing such materials is poly(lactic acid) (PLA) filled with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). To increase the compatibility of hydrophobic PLA and hydrophilic cellulose, the surface of the latter can be chemically modified. Among the various surface modifications, the grafting of lactic acid oligomers (OLAs) is of special interest. In this paper, the first all‐atom molecular dynamics simulation of nanocomposites of PLA filled with CNCs with surface‐grafted OLAs is presented. The influence of the degree of modification of the CNCs with OLA chains on the PLA structure near the CNC surface and on the grafted OLA, as well as on the thermal and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites is studied. It is demonstrated that a 50% modification of CNCs with OLA chains leads to PLA expulsion from the CNC surface. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
The Innovation Journey and the Skipper of the Raft: About the Role of Narratives in Innovation Project Leadership
Authors: Enninga Tanja , van der Lugt Remko
Published: March 2016

Innovation project leaders have the challenging role of guiding their team by managing four intertwined processes: developing content, meeting project constraints, stimulating creativity, and guiding group dynamics. This article investigates the role narratives play in leading an innovation project and how an innovation project leader uses stories in practice. We found a variety of stories that relate to all four processes. We argue that the roles of stories can be divided into three different aspects: the story, the storytelling, and the storymaking. Together, these aspects of stories can support managing the four intertwined processes to deliver innovation.