bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simple Gd3+-Neu5NAc complexation results in NMR chemical shift asymmetries of structurally equivalent complex-type N-glycan branches
Authors: Usachev Konstantin , Yamaguchi Yoshiki , Takamatsu Masayuki , Pavlova Nataliya , Klochkov Vladimir , Kurbangalieva Almira , Murase Takefumi , Shimoda Taiji , Tanaka Katsunori
Published: July 2017

A quite simple but overlooked approach for conveniently analyzing, assigning, and extracting sialoglycans using NMR without pre-installing metal chelators.
An intrinsic internal standard substrate of Au@PS-b-P4VP for rapid quantification by surface enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Gao Jiamin , Zhao Cheng , Zhang Zhuomin , Li Gongke
Published: July 2017

Reliable quantification by surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) highly depends on the development of a reproducible substrate with excellent anti-interference capability and precise calibration methods.
Probing the excited-state chemical shifts and exchange parameters by nitrogen-decoupled amide proton chemical exchange saturation transfer (HNdec-CEST)
Authors: Wu Qinglin , Fenton Benjamin A. , Wojtaszek Jessica L. , Zhou Pei
Published: July 2017

The HNdec-CEST experiment enables robust extraction of excited-state information of macromolecules.
Facet-controlled preparation of hybrid perovskite microcrystals in the gas phase and the remarkable effect on optoelectronic properties
Authors: Kollek T. , Polarz S.
Published: July 2017

Particle shape of hybrid perovskite microcrystals influences PL properties via differences in the abundant facets and associated surface trap states.
Resonant dynamic Stark shift as a tool in strong-field quantum control: calculation and application for selective multiphoton ionization of sodium
Authors: Bunjac A. , Popović D. B. , Simonović N. S.
Published: July 2017

A method for determining the resonant dynamic Stark shift (RDSS), based on wave-packet calculations of the populations of quantum states, is presented. The RDSS data are used to analyze selective multiphoton ionization of sodium.
Au cluster adsorption on perfect and defective MoS2 monolayers: structural and electronic properties
Authors: Ju Weiwei , Li Tongwei , Su Xiangying , Li Haisheng , Li Xiaohong , Ma Dongwei
Published: July 2017

The adsorption of Aun (n = 1–4) clusters on perfect and defective MoS2 monolayers is studied using density functional theory.
Highlight on the solution processes occurring on silver(i)-assembling porphyrins in the presence of an excess of silver salt
Authors: Dang T. T. , Durot S. , Monnereau L. , Heitz V. , Barbieri A. , Ventura B.
Published: July 2017

Coordination cages obtained upon complexation of pyridyl functionalized porphyrins by Ag+disassemble when overtaking a 1 : 2 stoichiometric amount of silver salt whereas an excess of Ag+leads to unusual chemical processes.
Cation distribution dependent magnetic properties in CoCr2−xFexO4 (x = 0.1 to 0.5): EXAFS, Mössbauer and magnetic measurements
Authors: Kumar D. , Banerjee A. , Mahmoud A. , Rath Chandana
Published: July 2017

Evolution of structure and rich magnetic transitions such as paramagnetic to ferrimagnetic phase transition at Curie temperature (TC), spiral ordering temperature (TS) and lock-in temperature (TL) have been discussed in CoCr2O4 spinel multiferroic after substituting Fe.
High-performance adsorption and separation of anionic dyes in water using a chemically stable graphene-like metal–organic framework
Authors: Li Jun-Jiao , Wang Chong-Chen , Fu Hui-fen , Cui Jing-Rui , Xu Peng , Guo Jie , Li Jian-Rong
Published: July 2017

MOF BUC-17 was used to conduct efficiently selective uptake of organic dyes, and achieve rapid separation of CR and MB from their mixture.
Lmna knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts are less contractile than their wild-type counterparts
Authors: van Loosdregt I. A. E. W. , Kamps M. A. F. , Oomens C. W. J. , Loerakker S. , Broers J. L. V. , Bouten C. V. C.
Published: July 2017

Lmnaknockout causes an impaired actin stress fiber organization which results in a fivefold lower contractile stress generation.
Discovery of human lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) inhibitors as anticancer agents to inhibit the proliferation of MG-63 osteosarcoma cells
Authors: Fang Aiping , Zhang Qi , Fan Haibo , Zhou Yaying , Yao Yuqin , Zhang Yue , Huang Xiaojun
Published: July 2017

A novel inhibitor with good inhibitory potency (IC50= 0.33 μM) against LDHA, which reduces the growth of MG-63 cancer cells (EC50= 3.35 μM), was reported herein.
Selective conversion of fructose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural over WO3/SnO2 catalysts
Authors: Raveendra G. , Surendar M. , Sai Prasad P. S.
Published: July 2017

The effective solid acid catalyst WO3/SnO2 has been synthesized and applied to the dehydration of fructose to HMF.
Highly stable and biocompatible dendrimer-encapsulated gold nanoparticle catalysts for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Wang Longgang , Yang Qinghua , Cui Yanshuai , Gao Dawei , Kang Jianxin , Sun Haotian , Zhu Linlin , Chen Shengfu
Published: July 2017

The enhanced properties of dendrimer-encapsulated gold nanoparticles were attributed to the single zwitterionic layer on the new dendrimer template.
Controlled synthesis of high quality scandium-based nanocrystals as promising recyclable catalysts for silylcyanation reaction
Authors: Yu Boyan , Hao Erjun , Fang Shaoming , Liu Zhengqing , Wang Yongwei , Lv Zhenzhen , Li Na , Zhang Xinyu , Shi Lei , Du Yaping
Published: July 2017

Monodisperse and well-defined NaScF4 and KSc2F7 nanocrystals were prepared and applied as highly-efficient catalysts for silylcyanation reaction.
Concise asymmetric total synthesis of (−)-patchouli alcohol
Authors: Xu Guang-Qiang , Lin Guo-Qiang , Sun Bing-Feng
Published: July 2017

An asymmetric total synthesis of (−)-patchouli alcohol was realized featuring an enantioselective organocatalytic [4 + 2] approach to the [2.2.2] bicyclic core.
Improvement of physical properties of palm stearin and soybean oil blends by enzymatic interesterification and their application in fast frozen food
Authors: Zhu Tingwei , Zhao Yali , Zong Minhua , Li Bing , Zhang Xia , Wu Hong
Published: July 2017

Physical properties of blends were improved by enzymatic interesterification in a fluidized bed reactor, and the interesterified blends are well applied in fast frozen foods.
The removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions by amine functionalized cellulose pretreated with microwave-H2O2
Authors: Zhang Cunzhi , Su Jingjing , Zhu Hongxiang , Xiong Jianhua , Liu Xinliang , Li Dongxue , Chen Yangmei , Li Yunhua
Published: July 2017

Microcrystalline cellulose pretreated with microwave-H2O2 was introduced with carboxyl and amino groups to obtain a new promising bioadsorbent.
A superhydrophobic solar selective absorber used in a flat plate solar collector
Authors: Zhu Yanqing , Shi Jifu , Huang Qizhang , Fang Yueyun , Wang Leilei , Xu Gang
Published: July 2017

A new kind of superhydrophobic (SH) solar selective absorber (SSA) used in a low-temperature flat plate solar collector is proposed.
Synergetic effect of CuS@ZnS nanostructures on photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutant under visible light irradiation
Authors: Harish S. , Archana J. , Navaneethan M. , Ponnusamy S. , Singh Ajay , Gupta Vinay , Aswal D. K. , Ikeda H. , Hayakawa Y.
Published: July 2017

Ultrafast visible light active CuS/ZnS nanostructured photocatalysts were synthesized by a hydrothermal method.
Enantioselectivity ofd-amino acid oxidase in the presence of ionic liquids
Authors: Liu Qingju , Zhao Chuanfang , Huang Jincheng , Chen Li , Yang Kunhao , Gong Lingling , Du Yuguo , Yu Chuyi , Wu Li , Li Xiangjun , He Yujian
Published: July 2017

In this paper, enantioselectivities ofd-amino acid oxidase (DAAO) in ten ionic liquids were investigated in detail.
Ethylenediamine functionalized carbon nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization, and evaluation for cadmium removal from water
Authors: Tshwenya Luthando , Arotiba Omotayo A.
Published: July 2017

Carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) for the removal of Cd in water: glucose derived CNPs (GCNPs) and ethylenediamine functionalized CNPs (EDA–GCNPs).
Facile chemical synthesis and enhanced thermoelectric properties of Ag doped SnSe nanocrystals
Authors: Chien Chia-Hua , Chang Chung-Chieh , Chen Cheng-Lung , Tseng Chuan-Ming , Wu Yu-Ruei , Wu Maw-Kuen , Lee Chih-Hao , Chen Yang-Yuan
Published: July 2017

A two-step, surfactant-free solution growth process was utilized to synthesize p-type Ag doped SnSe nanocrystals in gram quantities.
N,N-Dimethylpyridin-4-amine (DMAP) based ionic liquids: evaluation of physical properties via molecular dynamics simulations and application as a catalyst for Fisher indole and 1H-tetrazole synthesis
Authors: Ghumro Sarfaraz Ali , Saleem Sana , al-Rashida Mariya , Iqbal Nafees , Alharthy Rima D. , Ahmed Shakil , Moin Syed Tarique , Hameed Abdul
Published: July 2017

N,N-dimethylpyridin-4-amine (DMAP) based ionic liquids (ILs) as new and efficient catalysts for the facile synthesis of indoles (viaFischer indole synthesis), and 1H-tetrazoles (viaclick chemistry).
Electrokinetics and behavior near the interface of colloidal particles in non-polar dispersions
Authors: Prasad Manoj , Strubbe Filip , Beunis Filip , Neyts Kristiaan
Published: July 2017

The electrokinetics and charging of nonpolar colloidal dispersions subjected to a voltage are investigated by electric current and optical measurements.
Ionic transport in the amorphous phase of semicrystalline polyethylene oxide thin films
Authors: Martínez-Tong Daniel E. , Miccio Luis A. , Alegria Angel
Published: July 2017

We present a detailed Atomic Force Microscopy based study on the ionic transport properties of polyethylene oxide (PEO) thin films prepared under different conditions.
Assessing the accuracy of integral equation theories for nano-sized hydrophobic solutes in water
Authors: Fujita Takatoshi , Yamamoto Takeshi
Published: July 2017

Integral equation theories provide an efficient route for computing the solvation free energy (SFE) of molecular systems in water. The accuracy of those theories is usually tested against small molecules via comparison of SFE with reference data. However, tests against larger molecules in the nanometer regime are scarce in literature despite recent applications to such systems. Here, we thus study the accuracy and validity of a commonly used integral equation theory, namely, a three-dimensional reference interaction site model (3D-RISM), by considering the following problems: (1) solvation of a small to large Lennard-Jones particle, (2) binding of planar hydrophobic systems with varying size and hydrophobicity, and (3) self-assembly of amphiphilic molecules into a nanocapsule. The energy representation method is also utilized for comparison. The results show that the 3D-RISM method works successfully for small molecules, while the accuracy degrades systematically with system size and hydrophobicity. The size-dependent error in SFE does not cancel adequately between two solute configurations, resulting in a substantial error in the free energy difference. It is also shown that the free energy profiles for hydrophobic association exhibit a fictitious high-energy barrier, suggesting that care must be taken for studying such systems. The numerical difficulties observed above are discussed based on the relation between hypernetted-chain approximation, classical density functional theory with quadratic expansion, and the size-dependent error arising from the cavity region of the system.
Individuals matter: predicting koala road crossing behaviour in south-east Queensland
Authors: Dexter C. E. , Appleby R. G. , Scott J. , Edgar J. P. , Jones D. N.
Published: July 2017

The ability to predict the frequency with which koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) cross roads is an important step in developing mitigation strategies aimed at maintaining metapopulation viability for this species. In south-east Queensland, Australia, rapid urban development, including fragmentation and vehicle-related mortality, has contributed to a dramatic decline in local koala populations. Assessment of wildlife crossing structures that mitigates the impact of roads demonstrates these to be beneficial for many species. However, building enough structures to enable animals to move freely across impacted landscapes may be prohibitive in complex urban landscapes. The focus for this study was to consider the role of differing characteristics for species at risk. We examined the frequency of road crossings by individual koalas among six subpopulations in south-east Queensland. We explored the influence of potential predictor variables including: age, sex, and distance from roads. We established that road crossings were limited to a subset of individuals, with only 18 of 51 (~35%) koalas studied ever crossing a road. We found that koalas were disproportionately more likely to cross a road if they had initially been found within a distance of 100 m of that road. Males were more likely to cross roads than females, as were koalas aged less than five years. We suggest that successful wildlife road mitigation can be improved by better understanding the road-crossing behaviour of species such as the koala.
Population monitoring of small and declining brush-tailed rock wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) colonies at the extreme of their range using faecal DNA sampling
Authors: Piggott Maxine P. , Hansen Birgita , Soderquist Todd , Eldridge Mark D. B. , Taylor Andrea C.
Published: July 2017

Obtaining much-needed information on population parameters such as abundance and genetic diversity can be difficult for small and declining populations. The brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) is an endangered and cryptic species with many colonies in decline. The Warrumbungle National Park (NP) in New South Wales contains a declining metapopulation of P. penicillata at the western (inland) extreme of the species’ current range. Loss of these colonies would cause substantial range contraction and probable loss of regional genetic diversity in the Central Evolutionary Significance Unit (ESU). We used non-invasive genetic methods to identify individuals from faecal DNA from five colonies in the Warrumbungle NP. We identified a minimum of 21 individuals, with the largest colony containing seven individuals. The Warrumbungle NP colonies showed significant intercolony structuring and we were able to detect a single dispersal event. Comparison of genetic diversity to other Central ESU colonies shows that loss of the Warrumbungle NP population will result in loss of unique diversity from this region. The minimum number of animals and genetic diversity information obtained in this study was used to support management actions of herbivore control and translocation in the Warrumbungle NP population.
The Concurrent Validity of the Problem Oriented Screening Instrument for Teenagers (POSIT) Substance Use/Abuse Subscale in Adolescent Patients in an Urban Federally Qualified Health Center
Authors: Kelly Sharon M. , O'Grady Kevin E. , Gryczynski Jan , Mitchell Shannon Gwin , Kirk Arethusa , Schwartz Robert P.
Published: July 2017

Background

The Problem Oriented Screening Instrument for Teenagers (POSIT) substance use/abuse subscale has been validated with high school students, adolescents with criminal justice involvement, and adolescent substance use treatment samples using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-III-R and DSM-IV. This study examines the concurrent validity of the POSIT's standard 17-item substance use/abuse subscale and a revised, shorter 11-item version using DSM-5 substance use disorder diagnoses.

Methods

Adolescents ( N = 525; 93% African American, 55% female) 12–17 years of age awaiting primary care appointments at a Federally Qualified Health Center in Baltimore, Maryland completed the 17-item POSIT substance use/abuse subscale and items from a modified World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview corresponding to DSM-5 alcohol use disorder (AUD) and cannabis use disorder (CUD). Receiver operating characteristic curves, sensitivities, and specificities were examined with DSM-5 AUD, CUD, and a diagnosis of either or both disorders for the standard and revised subscales using risk cutoffs of either 1 or 2 POSIT “yes” responses.

Results

For the 17-item subscale, sensitivities were generally high using either cutoff (range: 0.79–1.00), although a cutoff of 1 was superior (sensitivities were 1.00 for AUD, CUD, and for either disorder). Specificities were also high using either cutoff (range: 0.81–0.95) but were higher using a cutoff of 2. For the 11-item subscale, a cutoff of 1 yielded higher sensitivities than a cutoff of 2 (ranges for 1 and 2: 0.96–1.00 and 0.79–0.86, respectively). Specificities for this subscale were higher using a cutoff of 2 (ranges for 1 and 2: 0.82–0.89 and 0.89–0.96, respectively).

Conclusions

Findings suggest that the POSIT's substance use/abuse subscale is a potentially useful tool for screening adolescents in primary care for AUD or CUD using a cutoff of 1 or 2. The briefer, revised subscale may be preferable to the standard subscale in busy pediatric practices.
Mutation of the α-tubulin Tuba1a leads to straighter microtubules and perturbs neuronal migration
Authors: Belvindrah Richard , Natarajan Kathiresan , Shabajee Preety , Bruel-Jungerman Elodie , Bernard Jennifer , Goutierre Marie , Moutkine Imane , Jaglin Xavier H. , Savariradjane Mythili , Irinopoulou Theano , Poncer Jean-Christophe , Janke Carsten , Francis Fiona
Published: July 2017

Brain development involves extensive migration of neurons. Microtubules (MTs) are key cellular effectors of neuronal displacement that are assembled from α/β-tubulin heterodimers. Mutation of the α-tubulin isotype TUBA1A is associated with cortical malformations in humans. In this study, we provide detailed in vivo and in vitro analyses of Tuba1a mutants. In mice carrying a Tuba1a missense mutation (S140G), neurons accumulate, and glial cells are dispersed along the rostral migratory stream in postnatal and adult brains. Live imaging of Tuba1a-mutant neurons revealed slowed migration and increased neuronal branching, which correlated with directionality alterations and perturbed nucleus–centrosome (N–C) coupling. Tuba1a mutation led to increased straightness of newly polymerized MTs, and structural modeling data suggest a conformational change in the α/β-tubulin heterodimer. We show that Tuba8, another α-tubulin isotype previously associated with cortical malformations, has altered function compared with Tuba1a. Our work shows that Tuba1a plays an essential, noncompensated role in neuronal saltatory migration in vivo and highlights the importance of MT flexibility in N–C coupling and neuronal-branching regulation during neuronal migration.
Law, Workplace Bullying and Moral Urgency
Authors: Patten Keith
Published: July 2017

The law’s approach to workplace bullying is fragmented and unsatisfactory. Where bullying is carried out for a discriminatory reason, there is a specific cause of action in the Equality Act, although this, itself, has significant limitations. If the bullying is for a non-discriminatory reason, not even this level of targeted protection is available. This article discusses the phenomenon of workplace bullying and argues that a freestanding cause of action is required to provide some measure of legal protection to victims.
Assessment of Pain Anxiety, Pain Catastrophizing, and Fear of Pain in Children and Adolescents With Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fisher Emma , Heathcote Lauren C , Eccleston Christopher , Simons Laura E , Palermo Tonya M
Published: July 2017

Objective

To conduct a systematic review of pain anxiety, pain catastrophizing, and fear of pain measures psychometrically established in youth with chronic pain. The review addresses three specific aims: (1) to identify measures used in youth with chronic pain, summarizing their content, psychometric properties, and use; (2) to use evidence-based assessment criteria to rate each measure according to the Society of Pediatric Psychology (SPP) guidelines; (3) to pool data across studies for meta-analysis of shared variance in psychometric performance in relation to the primary outcomes of pain intensity, disability, generalized anxiety, and depression.

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and relevant literature for possible studies to include. We identified measures studied in youth with chronic pain that assessed pain anxiety, pain catastrophizing, or fear of pain and extracted the item-level content. Study and participant characteristics, and correlation data were extracted for summary and meta-analysis, and measures were rated using the SPP evidence-based assessment criteria.

Results

Fifty-four studies (84 papers) met the inclusion criteria, including seven relevant measures: one assessed pain anxiety, three pain catastrophizing, and three fear of pain. Overall, five measures were rated as “well established.” We conducted meta-analyses on four measures with available data. We found significant positive correlations with the variables pain intensity, disability, generalized anxiety, and depression.

Conclusion

Seven measures are available to assess pain anxiety, pain catastrophizing, and fear of pain in young people with chronic pain, and most are well established. We present implications for practice and directions for future research.
First Report of Tomato chlorotic spot virus in Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) in Florida
Authors: Raid Richard N. , Allingham Joel R. , Funderburk Joseph E. , Skarlinsky Thomas , Hutton Samuel F. , Turechek William W. , Adkins Scott
Published: July 2017

Typical tosposvirus symptoms, lateral flow immunoassay testing, and sequence data confirm this identification, which is therefore the first report of Tomato chlorotic spot virus infection of sweet basil and purslane in Florida and of the specific plant species from any location.
Differences in Fusarium Species in brown midrib Sorghum and in Air Populations in Production Fields
Authors: Funnell-Harris Deanna L. , Scully Erin D. , Sattler Scott E. , French Roy C. , O’Neill Patrick M. , Pedersen Jeffrey F.
Published: July 2017

Several Fusarium spp. cause sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) grain mold, resulting in deterioration and mycotoxin production in the field and during storage. Fungal isolates from the air (2005 to 2006) and from leaves and grain from wild-type and brown midrib (bmr)-6 and bmr12 plants (2002 to 2003) were collected from two locations. Compared with the wild type, bmr plants have reduced lignin content, altered cell wall composition, and different levels of phenolic intermediates. Multilocus maximum-likelihood analysis identified two Fusarium thapsinum operational taxonomic units (OTU). One was identified at greater frequency in grain and leaves of bmr and wild-type plants but was infrequently detected in air. Nine F. graminearum OTU were identified: one was detected at low levels in grain and leaves while the rest were only detected in air. Wright’s F statistic (FST) indicated that Fusarium air populations differentiated between locations during crop anthesis but did not differ during vegetative growth, grain development, and maturity. FST also indicated that Fusarium populations from wild-type grain were differentiated from those in bmr6 or bmr12 grain at one location but, at the second location, populations from wild-type and bmr6 grain were more similar. Thus, impairing monolignol biosynthesis substantially effected Fusarium populations but environment had a strong influence.
Immunogenicity of the 9-Valent HPV Vaccine Using 2-Dose Regimens in Girls and Boys vs a 3-Dose Regimen in Women
Authors: Iversen Ole-Erik , Miranda Maria Jose , Ulied Angels , Soerdal Terje , Lazarus Erica , Chokephaibulkit Kulkanya , Block Stan L. , Skrivanek Ales , Nur Azurah Abdul Ghani , Fong Siew Moy , Dvorak Vladimir , Kim Kyung-Hyo , Cestero Ramon M. , Berkovitch Matitiahu , Ceyhan Mehmet , Ellison Misoo C. , Ritter Michael A. , Yuan Shuai S. , DiNubile Mark J. , Saah Alfred J. , Luxembourg Alain
Published: July 2017

(Abstracted from JAMA 2016;316:2411–2421)

Diseases caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are a substantial health care burden in both the developing and developed world.
Adherence to Safe Sleep Recommendations by Families With Higher-order Multiples
Authors: Haas Madeline C. , Dowling Donna , Damato Elizabeth G.
Published: July 2017

Background:

More than 95% of higher-order multiples are born preterm and more than 90% are low birth weight, making this group of infants especially vulnerable to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Emerging evidence suggests that families with twins face challenges adhering to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations to reduce SIDS risks. Adherence to the AAP recommendations in families with higher-order multiples has not been described.

Purpose:

This study describes SIDS risk reduction infant care practices for higher-order multiples during the first year of life.

Methods:

Mothers caring for higher-order multiple-birth infants were recruited from an online support group. An online survey was used to assess infant care practices when the infants were first brought home from the hospital as well as at the time of the survey.

Results:

Ten mothers of triplets and 4 mothers of quadruplets responded. Less than 80% of the mothers practiced “back to sleep” immediately postdischarge. Supine sleep positioning decreased over time, particularly during daytime naps. Only 50% of the infants shared the parents' bedroom and approximately 30% bed-shared with their siblings. Sleep-time pacifier use was low.

Implications for Practice:

Safe sleep education must include specific questions regarding home sleeping arrangements, encouragement of breast milk feedings, supine positioning, and pacifier use at every sleep for higher-order multiple infants well before discharge in order for parents to plan a safe sleep environment at home.

Implications for Research:

Prospective studies to identify barriers and facilitators can inform future strategies supporting adherence to safe sleep practices for higher-order multiple infants.
Association between alcohol consumption and colorectal cancer risk: a case–control study in the Han Chinese population
Authors: Wang Yue , Yang Helen , Shen Chun-Jian , Ge Jin-Nian , Lin Jie
Published: July 2017

Many epidemiologic studies have reported that alcohol is a risk factor for colorectal cancer. To further evaluate the association, we carried out a case–control study in the Han Chinese population. From February 2008 to February 2013, we carried out a hospital-based case–control study on colorectal cancer. Information was collected using a questionnaire. Cases were 310 patients with colorectal cancer; 620 healthy matched controls were also recruited. Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Alcohol consumption was associated with increased colorectal cancer risk, but OR was significant only among heavy drinkers (OR=2.18, for ≥21 drinks/week). Colorectal cancer risk was 4.01-fold higher in heavy smokers (≥20 cigarettes/day) and heavy drinkers (≥21 drinks/week) in comparison with never smokers who consumed less than 7 drinks/week. The relationship was strengthened by stratified studies of sex. Among former drinkers, the excess of risk disappeared in those who had quit for at least 10 years (OR=0.86). Our study confirmed that heavy alcohol consumption was associated with an increasing risk of colorectal cancer; smoking modified this relationship, especially heavy smokers. Further data from large cohorts are desirable for conclusive confirmation.
Determining the Differential Effects of Stretch and Growth in Tissue-Expanded Skin: Combining Isogeometric Analysis and Continuum Mechanics in a Porcine Model
Authors: Purnell Chad A. , Gart Michael S. , Buganza-Tepole Adrián , Tomaszewski Joanna P. , Topczewska Jolanta M. , Kuhl Ellen , Gosain Arun K.
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

The relative effects of skin growth and stretch during tissue expansion have not been studied. The authors use novel analytic techniques that allow calculation of these factors at any point of a skin patch.

OBJECTIVE

The authors sought to determine how stretch and growth change with different expansion rates and to correlate these values with histologic and cellular changes in skin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two minipigs were implanted with a total of 5 tissue expanders under tattooed skin grids. One pig was expanded over 35 days and the second over 15 days. Isogeometric analysis allowed calculation of growth and stretch. Expanders with similar total deformation were compared between protocols. Regression analysis determined predictive effects of stretch and growth on histologic data from the second animal.

RESULTS

Deformation was more attributable to stretch in rapid than in slow expansion (1.40 vs1.12, p < .001). Growth was higher in slow expansion than in rapid (1.52 vs 1.07, p < .001). Both growth and stretch predicted epidermal thickness, dermal thinning, and keratinocyte proliferation. Growth predicted vascularity.

CONCLUSION

Isogeometric analysis allows determination of precise surface area changes for correlation to microscopic-level data. Using the model, the authors identified that skin deformation in rapid expansion is more attributable to stretch.
Inadvertent Cyclodialysis Cleft and Hypotony Following Ab-Interno Trabeculotomy Using the Trabectome Device Requiring Surgical Repair
Authors: Berk Thomas A. , An Jella A. , Ahmed Iqbal Ike K.
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

To report the first case of inadvertent cyclodialysis cleft and hypotony requiring surgical repair following ab-interno trabeculotomy (AIT) using the Trabectome device, and the postoperative clinical results following direct suture cyclopexy.

Methods:

A 55-year-old man with hypotonous maculopathy secondary to cyclodialysis cleft inadvertently created 3 years earlier during AIT using the Trabectome device was referred for repair. Direct suture cyclopexy was performed and topical homatropine and dexamethasone drops were prescribed postoperatively.

Results:

Gonioscopic examination revealed complete cleft closure on postoperative day 1 confirmed by anterior segment optical coherence tomography. At 11 weeks postoperatively, visual acuity had improved from 20/400 to 20/40, with resolution of preoperative macular folds on fundoscopic examination. At 9 months postoperatively, visual acuity had further improved to 20/20 with intraocular pressure stable at 9 mm Hg maintained on travoprost and brimonidine.

Conclusions:

Inadvertent cyclodialysis cleft from a malpositioned AIT and resultant hypotony is rare and in this case was successfully treated by direct suture cyclopexy.
Rendering factor Xa zymogen-like as a therapeutic strategy to treat bleeding
Authors: Thalji Nabil K. , Camire Rodney M.
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

New therapies are needed to control bleeding in a range of clinical conditions. This review will discuss the biochemical properties of zymogen-like factor Xa, its preclinical assessment in different model systems, and future development prospects.

Recent findings

Underlying many procoagulant therapeutic approaches is the rapid generation of thrombin to promote robust clot formation. Clinically tested prohemostatic agents (e.g., factor VIIa) can provide effective hemostasis to mitigate bleeding in hemophilia and other clinical situations. Over the past decade, we explored the possibility of using zymogen-like factor Xa variants to rapidly improve clot formation for the treatment of bleeding conditions. Compared to the wild-type enzyme, these variants adopt an altered, low activity, conformation which enables them to resist plasma protease inhibitors. However, zymogen-like factor Xa variants are conformationally dynamic and ligands such as its cofactor, factor Va, stabilize the molecule rescuing procoagulant activity. At the site of vascular injury, the variants in the presence of factor Va serve as effective prohemostatic agents. Preclinical data support their use to stop bleeding in a variety of clinical settings. Phase 1 studies suggest that zymogen-like factor Xa is safe and well tolerated, and a phase 1b is ongoing to assess safety in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.

Zymogen-like factor Xa is a unique prohemostatic agent for the treatment of a range of bleeding conditions.
The use of biosimilars in paediatric inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Jongsma Maria Myrthe Elisabeth , Vulto Arnold , de Ridder Lissy
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

After expiry of the patent of originator anti-tumor necrosis factor drug infliximab (Remicade), CT-P13 was in 2013 the first infliximab biosimilar to be approved by the European Medicine Agency (EMA) for the same indications as the reference drug, including paediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The approval was based on extrapolation, after extensive in-vitro studies and clinical experience in patients with ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis. The extrapolation of CT-P13 to IBD and to paediatric patients raised concerns among paediatric IBD specialists.

Recent findings

Now, almost 4 years later, we can conclude that those concerns have been resolved. There are a growing number of postmarketing studies and real-life data, so far mostly in adults and some in children with IBD. These studies show reassuring comparable efficacy, safety and immunogenicity between CT-P13 and the reference Infliximab.

Conclusion

In Europe, biosimilars are increasingly regularly prescribed drugs in paediatric IBD. Due to their lower cost, treatment expenses have gone down considerably (up to 30% or more in some countries) and patient access has improved. However, additional well designed studies to investigate long term follow-up of biosimilars in children are still needed. In addition, clinical studies addressing pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and optimal use of infliximab (originator as well as biosimilar) are still desirable.
Patient With Niemann-Pick Type C Presenting With a Jaw Mass Characterized With Lymph Node Involvement by Niemann-Pick Cells
Authors: İnci Asli , Okur İlyas , Esendağli Güldal , Okur Arzu , Olgaç Asburçe , Ezgü Fatih S. , Tümer Leyla
Published: July 2017

Niemann-Pick type C disease (NPC) is an autosomal recessive disorder resulting in accumulation of unesterified lysosomal cholesterol. An 8-year-old girl with NPC disease had a painless, rigid, and fixed mass measuring 3 cm in diameter located on the left angular region of mandibula. The mass biopsy showed lipid-laden phagocytic cells infiltrating the lymph node consistent with Niemann-Pick cells. In NPC, accumulation of cholesterol in tissues could be seen not only in reticuloendothelial and nervous systems, but also in all systems. Our case is important for it being the first case of NPC with submandibular lymphadenopathy characterized with NPC cell infiltration.
A Case of Familial Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Type 4 With Involvement of the Central Nervous System Complicated With Infarct
Authors: Ciraci Saliha , Ozcan Alper , Ozdemir Mustafa M. , Chiang Samuel C.C. , Tesi Bianca , Ozdemir Akif M. , Karakukcu Musa , Patiroglu Turkan , Acipayam Can , Doganay Selim , Gumus Hakan , Unal Ekrem
Published: July 2017

Background:

Familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a fatal disease affecting infants and very young children. Central nervous system involvement of HLH can cause catastrophic results.

Method:

We present a case with cranial involvement of familial HLH type 4 who showed diffuse infiltration of white matter complicated with intracranial thrombosis. A 5-year-old girl from a consanguineous couple presented with fever and pancytopenia, and was referred to our hematology unit. Examination revealed fever, lymphadenopathy, and hepatosplenomegaly. Ultrasound examination revealed hepatosplenomegaly and free intra-abdominal fluid. HLH was revealed on bone marrow aspiration biopsy. Defective natural killer and T lymphocyte cytotoxicity using degranulation tests was determined. In the genetic analysis, syntaxin gene mutation was found. On T2-weighted and T2-fluid-attenuated inversion recovery magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffuse hyperintense signal changes of cerebral white matter, indicating white matter demyelination, were observed. A second brain MRI showed an acute infarct involving the left temporooccipital region. Immunosuppressive therapy according to the HLH 2004 protocol was started. The infarct resolved but white matter lesions were stable on the brain MRI that was performed 1 month later. Brain MRI taken 4 months after the first examination showed stable cerebral white matter lesions, but hyperintense signal changes appeared in the cerebellar white matter and were regarded as progression. The patient died because of infection despite immunosuppressive therapy.

Conclusions:

Physicians managing patients with HLH must be vigilant about the possibility of central nervous system involvement including stroke.
Simultaneous Presentation of Wilms Tumor and Immature Ovarian Teratoma in Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome
Authors: White Jason C. , Liu Jinglan , Nahar Akash
Published: July 2017

The Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome is a cancer predisposition syndrome characterized by a predilection to embryonal tumor growth, especially Wilms tumor, adrenocortical carcinomas, and hepatoblastomas. Genetic analysis of patients has revealed a link to the imprinted domain of the 11p15.5 chromosome and methylation status of the H19 locus and Igf-2. These genes have also been studied in other cancers, including ovarian teratomas. Our case is a patient with a simultaneous presentation of a Wilms tumor and immature ovarian teratoma and subsequently diagnosed with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, which has not been previously described.
Risk Factors for Trachelectomy Following Supracervical Hysterectomy
Authors: Tsafrir Ziv , Aoun Joelle , Papalekas Eleni , Taylor Andrew , Schiff Lauren , Theoharis Evan , Eisenstein David
Published: July 2017

(Abstracted from Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2017;96:421–425)

Advocates of supracervical hysterectomy (SCH) hypothesized that removing the entire cervix may diminish sexual response, urinary function, and pelvic support, as well as increase operative time and complications. Several studies, however, have failed to find benefit from retention of the cervical stump at hysterectomy.
The Complex Interaction Between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Hereditary Angioedema: Case Reports and Review of the Literature
Authors: Iahn-Aun Marina , Aun Marcelo Vivolo , Motta Antonio Abílio , Kalil Jorge , Giavina-Bianchi Pedro , Hayashida Sylvia Asaka , Baracat Edmund Chada , Maciel Gustavo Arantes
Published: July 2017

Importance

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare but severe disease, with high risk of death, and attacks have been associated to high estrogen levels. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hyperandrogenic condition, which is frequently treated with combined oral contraceptives.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe 2 clinical cases of young women diagnosed as having PCOS who developed HAE attacks after the introduction of combined estrogen-progestin pills to treat PCOS symptoms.

Evidence Acquisition

Literature review of sex hormones’ role in genesis of HAE attacks and possible mechanisms involved.

Results

In the cases reported, after initiation of combined contraceptives, patients presented with facial swelling with airway involvement (laryngeal edema) and abdominal pain. They had a familial history of angioedema and normal C1 inhibitor (C1-INH) levels, leading to the diagnosis of HAE with normal C1-INH (HAEnC1-INH) or HAE type III. After suspension of exogenous estrogen, patients remained asymptomatic from HAE.

Conclusions and Relevance

HAEnC1-INH is an estrogen-dependent form of HAE. It is well established that exogenous estrogen triggers attacks of all types of HAE. However, this is the first description of the association between PCOS and HAE, in which PCOS could be masking HAE symptoms. We propose that PCOS might have a protective role regarding HAE attacks, because of its particular hormonal features, that is, hyperandrogenism and relative stable levels of estradiol. The use of combined estrogen-progestin compounds in women with PCOS and HAE must be avoided, and treatment must be individualized.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians.

Learning Objectives

After completing this activity, the learner should be better able to evaluate for hereditary angioedema (HAE) in patients with recurrent angioedema attacks and abdominal pain, particularly when they are under exogenous estrogen treatment; ask patients about personal or familial history of angioedema attacks before prescribing exogenous estrogen; recall that isolated progestins can be used as long-term prophylaxis to HAE patients; and explain that hyperandrogenism of polycystic ovary syndrome could mask HAE symptoms.
Euploidy Rates in Donor Egg Cycles Significantly Differ Between Fertility Centers
Authors: Munné S. , Alikani M. , Ribustello L. , Colls P. , Martínez-Ortiz Pedro A. , McCulloh D. H.
Published: July 2017

(Abstracted from Hum Reprod 2017:32:743–749)

In the past 2 decades, genetic screening of thousands of human embryos following ovarian stimulation and in vitro fertilization has clearly demonstrated that the incidence of numeric chromosome abnormalities is very high, exceeding 50% of biopsied embryos. A majority of aneuploidies are meiotic in origin and maternal age related.
Fecal Microbiota Therapy With a Focus on Clostridium difficile Infection
Authors: Brandt Lawrence J.
Published: July 2017

There has been a paradigm shift in our view of bacteria away from their role as just pathogens. We now have a deepening appreciation of their critical influences in our health maintenance, including energy harvest, metabolism, intestinal development, cell proliferation, nervous system and immune function, as well as their role to protect against intestinal and other infections. A perturbed intestinal microbiome has been associated with an increasing number of gastrointestinal and nongastrointestinal diseases but particularly with Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Although such association does not imply causation, it has been shown that fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) can correct the dysbiosis that characterizes chronic and recurring CDI and that FMT can effect a seemingly safe and rapidly effective cure for most patients with CDI so treated. FMT has been used to treat a wide range of other diseases, although conclusions about efficacy in any disease other than CDI must await appropriate well-designed trials. More work needs to be conducted with FMT, especially to evaluate and ensure its long-term safety. Future studies are likely to narrow the spectrum of organisms that needs to be given to patients to cure CDI, and perhaps other diseases, and to elucidate the mechanisms whereby such therapeutic benefit occurs. FMT is but the first step in this journey.
Dissecting targeted therapy resistance: Integrating models to quantify environment mediated drug resistance
Authors: Picco Noemi , Sahai Erik , Maini Philip K. , Anderson Alexander R. A.
Published: July 2017

Drug resistance is the single most important driver of cancer treatment failure for modern targeted therapies. This resistance may be due to the presence of dormant or aggressive tumor cell phenotypes or to context-driven protection. Non-malignant cells and other factors, constituting the microenvironment in which the tumor grows (the stroma), are now thought to play a crucial role in both therapeutic response and resistance. Specifically, the dialogue between the tumor and stroma has been shown to modulate the response to molecularly targeted therapies, through proliferative and survival signaling. The goal of this work is to investigate interactions between a growing tumor and its surrounding stroma in facilitating the emergence of drug resistance. We use mathematical modeling as a theoretical framework to bridge between experimental models and scales, with the aim of separating the intrinsic and extrinsic components of resistance in BRAF mutated melanoma. The model describes tumor-stroma dynamics both with and without treatment. Calibration of our model, through the integration of experimental data, revealed significant variation across animal replicates in either the intensity of stromal promotion or intrinsic tissue carrying capacity. Furthermore our study highlights the need to account for this variation in the design of treatment strategies.Major Findings.Through the integration of a simple mathematical model within vitroandin vivoexperimental growth dynamics of melanoma cell lines (both with and without drug), we were able to dissect the relative contributions of intrinsic versus environmental resistance. Our study revealed significant heterogeneityin vivo, indicating that there is a diversity of either stromal promotion or tumor carrying capacity under targeted therapy. We believe this variation may be one possible explanation for the heterogeneity observed across patients and within individual patients with multiple metastases. Therefore, quantifying this variation both withinin vivomodel systems and in individual patients could have a significant impact on the design of future treatment strategies that target both the tumor and stroma. Further, we present guidelines for building more effective and longer lasting therapeutic strategies utilizing our experimentally calibrated model. These strategies explicitly consider the protective nature of the stroma and utilize inhibitors that modulate it.

Precis

Quantification of the environmental contribution to drug resistance reveals heterogeneity that significantly alters treatment dynamics that can be exploited for therapeutic gain.

Financial Support

Picco and Anderson: US National Cancer Institute grant U01CA151924.

Picco: UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC grant number EP/G037280/1).

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

The authors declare no potential conflicts of interest.
Unleashing meiotic crossovers in hybrid plants
Authors: Fernandes Joiselle Blanche , Seguéla-Arnaud Mathilde , Larchevêque Cecile , Lloyd Andrew H. , Mercier Raphael
Published: July 2017

Meiotic crossovers shuffle parental genetic information, providing novel combinations of alleles on which natural or artificial selection can act. However, crossover events are relatively rare, typically one to three exchange points per chromosome pair. Recent work has identified three pathways limiting meiotic crossovers inArabidopsis thaliana, that rely on the activity of FANCM1, RECQ42and FIGL13, respectively. Here, we analyzed recombination in plants where one, two or three of these pathways were disrupted, in both pure line and hybrid contexts. The highest effect was observed when combiningrecq4andfigl1mutations, which increased the hybrid genetic map length from 389 to 3037 centiMorgans. This corresponds to an unprecedented 7.8-fold increase in crossover frequency. Disrupting the three pathways do not further increases recombination, suggesting that some upper limit has been reached. The increase in crossovers is not uniform along chromosomes and rises from centromere to telomere. Finally, while in wild type recombination is much higher in male than in female meiosis (490 cM vs 290 cM), female recombination is higher than male inrecq4 figl1(3200 cM vs 2720 cM), suggesting that the factors that make wild-type female meiosis less recombinogenic than male wild-type meiosis do not apply in the mutant context. The massive increase of recombination observed inrecq4 figl1hybrids opens the possibility to manipulate recombination to enhance plant breeding efficiency.