bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relativistic foundations of synchrotron radiation
Authors: Margaritondo Giorgio , Rafelski Johann
Published: June 2017

Special relativity (SR) determines the properties of synchrotron radiation, but the corresponding mechanisms are frequently misunderstood. Time dilation is often invoked among the causes, whereas its role would violate the principles of SR. Here it is shown that the correct explanation of the synchrotron radiation properties is provided by a combination of the Doppler shift, not dependent on time dilation effects, contrary to a common belief, and of the Lorentz transformation into the particle reference frame of the electromagnetic field of the emission-inducing device, also with no contribution from time dilation. Concluding, the reader is reminded that much, if not all, of our argument has been available since the inception of SR, a research discipline of its own standing.
(Z)-4-Chloro-N-{3-[(4-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl]-2,3-dihydrobenzo[d]thiazol-2-ylidene}benzenesulfonamide
Authors: Watkins Sydney M. , Hagen Timothy J. , Perkins Timothy S. , Zheng Chong
Published: June 2017

The title compound, C19H12Cl2N2O4S3, is related to a ditosylated 2-iminobenzothiazole with the two methyl groups on the two phenyl rings replaced by chlorine. There is a weak intramolecular π–π contact between the two phenyl rings, with a centroid-to-centroid distance of 4.004 (2) Å. The dihedral angle between the rings is 9.96 (13)°. An intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond stabilizes the molecular conformation.
Methyl 2-{[(6S*,7R*,8S*)-7-acetyl-8-(4-chlorophenyl)-4-cyano-6-hydroxy-1,6-dimethyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroisoquinolin-3-yl]sulfanyl}acetate
Authors: Mague Joel T. , Al-Taifi Elham A. , Mohamed Shaaban K. , Akkurt Mehmet , Bakhite Etify A.
Published: June 2017

In the title compound, C23H23ClN2O4S, the 4-chlorophenyl ring is inclined to the pyridine ring of the isoquinoline group by 71.86 (13)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked by pairs of O—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers, which stack along theb-axis direction. The methyl acetate group attached to the S atom is disordered over two sites in a 50:50 ratio, which appears to prevent close intermolecular contacts between the methyl groups.
1,4-Dibenzyl-6-chloroquinoxaline-2,3(1H,4H)-dione
Authors: El Janati Ali , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Jasinski Jerry P. , Kaur Manpreet , Ouzidan Younes , Essassi El Mokhtar
Published: June 2017

The title compound, C22H17ClN2O2, crystallizes with two independent molecules (AandB) in the asymmetric unit. The 6-chloroquinoxaline-2,3(1H,4H)-dione ring system is essentially planar. The dihedral angles between the mean planes of the 6-chloroquinoxaline-2,3(1H,4H)-dione ring and the phenyl rings of the benzyl substituents in the two molecules are 68.34 and 73.8 (7)° forA, and 73.8 (5) and 80.7 (1)° forB, so that these rings point away from the quinoxaline ring system. In the crystal, weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds and π–π stacking interactions link the molecules into a three-dimensional network.
Hockey India league: remnants of India’s long lost glory
Authors: Rishi Bikramjit , Sabnis Neil , Bagchi Sayani
Published: June 2017

Subject area

Marketing management, Sports marketing.

Study level/applicability

The case is targeted at students of postgraduate and undergraduate programmes in business administration, specialising in marketing management/sports marketing.

Case overview

The Hockey India League (HIL) failed to make its mark. After the grand success of the Indian Premier League in India, there were hopes afloat for the HIL to follow suit. However, while the Pro Kabaddi League and the Premier Badminton League received much appreciation from a devout audience, the HIL did not quite live up to its expectations. With its evident failure for two consecutive seasons, investor sentiments were at an all-time low and most stakeholders wanted to back out. The future of the HIL now hangs in the balance, with the uncertainty of whether it should be shut down or given one more chance.

Expected learning outcomes

The participants are required to understand the Indian sports environment and the factors that play a major role in making a sport not only popular but also lucrative from the point of view of the investors. They will be called upon to improvise on the existing format of a sport, making it more attractive to the audience. Through such an exercise, they will understand how strategic changes to basic game formats can impact its success or failure. The case will encourage participants to think about viable business models for the revival of different types of sport.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 8: Marketing.
Recognition cascade and metabolite transfer in a marine bacteria‐phytoplankton model system
Authors: Durham Bryndan P. , Dearth Stephen P. , Sharma Shalabh , Amin Shady A. , Smith Christa B. , Campagna Shawn R. , Armbrust E. Virginia , Moran Mary Ann
Published: June 2017

The trophic linkage between marine bacteria and phytoplankton in the surface ocean is a key step in the global carbon cycle, with almost half of marine primary production transformed by heterotrophic bacterioplankton within hours to weeks of fixation. Early studies conceptualized this link as the passive addition and removal of organic compounds from a shared seawater reservoir. Here, we analysed transcript and intracellular metabolite patterns in a two‐member model system and found that the presence of a heterotrophic bacterium induced a potential recognition cascade in a marine phytoplankton species that parallels better‐understood vascular plant response systems. Bacterium Ruegeria pomeroyi DSS‐3 triggered differential expression of >80 genes in diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana CCMP1335 that are homologs to those used by plants to recognize external stimuli, including proteins putatively involved in leucine‐rich repeat recognition activity, second messenger production and protein kinase cascades. Co‐cultured diatoms also downregulated lipid biosynthesis genes and upregulated chitin metabolism genes. From differential expression of bacterial transporter systems, we hypothesize that nine diatom metabolites supported the majority of bacterial growth, among them sulfonates, sugar derivatives and organic nitrogen compounds. Similar recognition responses and metabolic linkages as observed in this model system may influence carbon transformations by ocean plankton.
Pseudomonas protegens Pf‐5 favours self‐produced siderophore over free‐loading in interspecies competition for iron
Authors: Sexton D. Joseph , Glover Rochelle C. , Loper Joyce E. , Schuster Martin
Published: June 2017

Many microorganisms compete for extracellular iron using strain‐specific chelators known as siderophores. The ferric‐siderophore complex limits local access to iron because import requires a suitable cognate receptor. Interestingly, many species carry receptors that enable ‘cross‐feeding’ on heterologous siderophores made by neighboring organisms, although little is known about how this ubiquitous behaviour is regulated. Here, we investigated the soil bacterium Pseudomonas protegens Pf‐5, a strain remarkable for its ability to use dozens of heterologous siderophores. We characterized the expression of six pyoverdine‐type (PVD) siderophore receptors in response to their cognate PVD. In general, we found expression is tightly regulated to reflect availability of their cognate PVD. In contrast, Pf‐5 continues to secrete its own primary siderophore, PVDPf‐5, despite the capability and opportunity to cross‐feed. We demonstrate that this strategy is beneficial in co‐culture with a competing PVDPAO1‐producer, P. aeruginosa PAO1. Although Pf‐5 can cross‐feed on PVDPAO1, production of PVDPf‐5 is required to maintain a competitive advantage. We attribute this to an antagonistic effect of PVDPf‐5 on the growth of PAO1, presumably through limiting access to iron. Our results demonstrate the benefits of excluding competitors out‐weigh the incentives associated with a free‐loader lifestyle for Pf‐5.
Control of virulence gene transcription by indirect readout in Vibrio cholerae and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Dorman Charles J. , Dorman Matthew J.
Published: June 2017

Indirect readout mechanisms of transcription control rely on the recognition of DNA shape by transcription factors (TFs). TFs may also employ a direct readout mechanism that involves the reading of the base sequence in the DNA major groove at the binding site. TFs with winged helix–turn–helix (wHTH) motifs use an alpha helix to read the base sequence in the major groove while inserting a beta sheet ‘wing’ into the adjacent minor groove. Such wHTH proteins are important regulators of virulence gene transcription in many pathogens; they also control housekeeping genes. This article considers the cases of the non‐invasive Gram‐negative pathogen Vibrio cholerae and the invasive pathogen Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. Both possess clusters of A + T‐rich horizontally acquired virulence genes that are silenced by the nucleoid‐associated protein H‐NS and regulated positively or negatively by wHTH TFs: for example, ToxR and LeuO in V. cholerae; HilA, LeuO, SlyA and OmpR in S. Typhimurium. Because of their relatively relaxed base sequence requirements for target recognition, indirect readout mechanisms have the potential to engage regulatory proteins with many more targets than might be the case using direct readout, making indirect readout an important, yet often ignored, contributor to the expression of pathogenic phenotypes.
Bupropion Overdose Resulted in a Pharmacobezoar in a Fatal Bupropion (Wellbutrin®) Sustained‐release Overdose: Postmortem Distribution of Bupropion and its Major Metabolites
Authors: Schmit Gregory , De Boosere Evy , Vanhaebost Jessica , Capron Arnaud
Published: June 2017

Bupropion (BUP) overdose commonly causes generalized seizures and central nervous system depression. The case of a 28‐year‐old woman who died from a massive lethal overdose with sustained‐release bupropion (Wellbutrin® 300 mg) is herein presented. The autopsy revealed the presence of a pharmacobezoar consisting of at least 40 tablets in the stomach. Determination of bupropion and its active metabolites (hydroxybupropion, threobupropion, erythrobupropion) was achieved by a liquid chromatographic mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method. Postmortem concentrations for bupropion, hydroxybupropion, threobupropion, and erythrobupropion were obtained in intracranial blood, urine, bile, liver, kidney, and vitreous humor. In this case, intracranial blood level of the parent drug was 1.9 mg/L. Threobupropion was the most abundant metabolite in both blood and urine, 59.3 and 890.6 mg/L. Tissue distribution showed the highest concentration in the liver, 12.3 mg/kg. The 0.8 bupropion concentration ratio vitreous/blood suggested that vitreous could be a valuable specimen for toxicological analysis should postmortem blood be unavailable.
A Two‐Year Study of Δ 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol Concentrations in Drivers; Part 2: Physiological Signs on Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) and non‐DRE Examinations,,
Authors: Declues Kari , Perez Shelli , Figueroa Ariana
Published: June 2017

Whole blood samples were examined for ∆9‐Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) over 2 years in drivers suspected of driving under the influence. Part one of the study examined the link between [THC] and performance on field sobriety tests. This portion examined objective signs, eye examinations and physiological indicators; and their relationship to the presence of THC. Several objective signs were excellent indicators of the presence of THC: red eyes (94%), droopy eyelids (85.6%), affected speech (87.6%), tongue coating (96.2%), and odor of marijuana (82.4%). About 63.6% of THC positive subjects had dialted pupils (room light). THC positive subjects had either rebound dilation or hippus in 88.8% of cases. Pulse and blood pressure (BP) were evaluated to determine any correlation with [THC]. An increased pulse rate correlated well to the presence of THC (88.5%), but not [THC]. BP did not correlate to [THC] and was also a poor indicator of THC in the blood (50% high).
Forensic Radiology Pitfalls: CT Imaging in Gunshot Wounds of the Head
Authors: Giffen Mark A. , Powell Jason A. , McLemore Jerri
Published: June 2017

Computed tomography (CT) imaging is increasingly used in emergency departments and trauma services and is being offered as a supplemental tool with autopsy in coroner's and medical examiner's offices throughout the United States. The availability of CT images in lieu of traditional X‐rays for medicolegal autopsies may lead to misinterpretation of images for forensic pathologists who are not familiar with these types of images. Forensic pathologists must become familiar with CT imaging, the basis of CT image formation and how to interpret CT images appropriately. We highlight potential pitfalls of CT image interpretation through two cases of fatal gunshot wounds of the head. Antemortem CT imaging available at the time of autopsy led to discrepancy between the initial image findings and the autopsy due to inexperienced manipulation of the images. With appropriate understanding of CT image interpretation and manipulation, forensic personnel should be able to avoid most sources of misinterpretation.
Context‐dependent effects of cold stress on behavioral, physiological, and life‐history traits of the red flour beetle
Authors: Scharf Inon , Wertheimer Keren‐Or , Xin Joy Lim , Gilad Tomer , Goldenberg Inna , Subach Aziz
Published: June 2017

Animals are exposed in nature to a variety of stressors. While stress is generally harmful, mild stress can also be beneficial and contribute to reproduction and survival. We studied the effect of five cold shock events versus a single cold shock and a control group, representing three levels of stress (harsh, mild, and no stress), on behavioral, physiological, and life‐history traits of the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum, Herbst 1797). Beetles exposed to harsh cold stress were less active than a control group: they moved less and failed more frequently to detect a food patch. Their probability to mate was also lower. Beetle pairs exposed to harsh cold stress frequently failed to reproduce at all, and if reproducing, females laid fewer eggs, which were, as larvae in mid‐development, smaller than those in the control group. However, harsh cold stress led to improved female starvation tolerance, probably due to enhanced lipid accumulation. Harsh cold shock also improved tolerance to an additional cold shock compared to the control. Finally, a single cold shock event negatively affected fewer measured response variables than the harsh cold stress, but also enhanced neither starvation tolerance nor tolerance to an additional cold shock. The consequences of a harsher cold stress are thus not solely detrimental but might even enhance survival under stressful conditions. Under benign conditions, nevertheless, harsh stress impedes beetle performance. The harsh stress probably shifted the balance point of the survival‐reproduction trade‐off, a shift that did not take place following exposure to mild stress.
Getting yourself out of the way: Aboriginal people listening and belonging in the city
Authors: Harrison Neil , McLean Rebecca
Published: June 2017

Much is known about the meaning of Country to Aboriginal people living in northern Australia. Discourse abounds in various disciplines about how Country provides people in remote locations with a sense of belonging and place. Yet little is known about what Country means to Aboriginal people living in large urban locations such as Sydney, Australia. The two authors conducted a series of interviews with nine Aboriginal people about what Country and belonging mean for them in the city. A methodological relation between the two authors is explored as a means of reflecting on the role of mentoring in a research partnership, and on the transferal of research capacity through that collaboration. Older participants identify how listening and belonging are each governed by the other to the extent that there can be no belonging without listening. We draw on the frames of both human geography and philosophy to argue that listening depends on an ability to get yourself out of the way.
Flavonoids of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) Seed Embryos and Their Antioxidant Potential
Authors: Zhu Mingzhi , Liu Ting , Zhang Chunyun , Guo Mingquan
Published: June 2017

Flavonoids from lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) seed embryos were fractionated over a macroporous resin chromatography into 2 main fractions (I and II), and subsequently identified by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS2). Sixteen flavonoids were identified in lotus seed embryos, including 8 flavonoid C‐glycosides and 8 flavonoid O‐glycosides, in which the flavonoid C‐glycosides were the main flavonoids. Among them, 2 flavonoid O‐glycosides (luteolin 7‐O‐neohesperidoside and kaempferol 7‐O‐glucoside) were identified in lotus seed embryos for the 1st time. For further elucidating the effects of flavonoid C‐glycosides to the bioactivities of lotus seed embryos, we compared the differences of the flavonoids and their antioxidant activities between leaves and seed embryos of lotus using the same methods. The results showed the antioxidant activity of flavonoids in lotus seed embryos was comparable or higher than that in lotus leaves, whereas the total flavonoid content in seed embryos was lower than lotus leaves which only contained flavonoid O‐glycosides. The flavonoid C‐glycosides of lotus seed embryos had higher antioxidant properties than the flavonoid O‐glycosides presented in lotus leaves. This study suggested that the lotus seed embryos could be promising sources with antioxidant activity and used as dietary supplements for health promotion.
Gambling Attitudes and Financial Misreporting
Authors: Christensen Dane M. , Jones Keith L. , Kenchington David G.
Published: June 2017

We investigate whether attitudes toward gambling help explain the occurrence of intentional misreporting. Similar to gambling, some financial reporting choices involve taking deliberate, speculative risks. We predict that in places where gambling is more socially acceptable, managers will be more likely to take financial reporting risks that increase the likelihood the financial statements will need to be restated. To test this prediction, we exploit geographic variation in local gambling attitudes and find that restatements due to intentional misreporting are more common in areas where gambling is more socially acceptable. This association is even stronger in situations where management is under greater pressure to misreport, including when the firm is close to meeting a performance benchmark, experiencing poor financial performance, or under investment‐related pressure. Furthermore, these results are robust to numerous tests to address omitted variables and endogeneity. Collectively, these findings suggest gambling attitudes help explain the incidence of intentional misreporting.
Quality assurance of falls reduction in an orthopaedic ward using a novel bedside trolley table set‐up strategy
Authors: Chan Shuang Quan , Wadsley Marianne , Ferriere Sue
Published: June 2017

Objective

To assess whether a novel bedside trolley table set‐up decreased inpatient falls (IF) postintervention.

Methods

From December 2012 to December 2014, geriatric patients admitted to our orthopaedic ward with extreme falls risk had a bedside trolley placed between them and a floor sensor mat to give responders more time to prevent IF. Pre‐ and postintervention falls data was reviewed for falls reduction using falls per month as comparison standard. IF were classified as high or low/medium risk using St Thomas's Risk Assessment Tool In Falling Elderly inpatients (STRATIFY) scoring.

Results

Sixty‐two of 134 falls fulfilled inclusion criteria. The high‐risk group had 33 patients preintervention and 22 patients postintervention, with falls per month at 3.4 preintervention and 1 postintervention. IF reduction was 71% in STRATIFY ≥17 versus 44% in STRATIFY <17.

Conclusions

The novel set‐up with appropriate assessment may decrease falls in the high‐risk ortho‐geriatric population. Further trials are warranted to confirm its effectiveness.
Phenotypic characterisation of coagulase‐negative staphylococci isolated from blood cultures in newborn infants, with a special focus on Staphylococcus capitis
Authors: Ehlersson Gustaf , Hellmark Bengt , Svartström Olov , Stenmark Bianca , Söderquist Bo
Published: June 2017

Aim

This Swedish study determined which species of coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CoNS) were found in neonatal blood cultures and whether they included Staphylococcus capitis clones with decreased susceptibility to vancomycin.

Methods

CoNS isolates (n = 332) from neonatal blood cultures collected at Örebro University Hospital during 1987–2014 were identified to species level with matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS). The antibiotic susceptibility pattern of S. capitis isolates was determined by the disc diffusion test and Etest, and the presence of heterogeneous glycopeptide‐intermediate S. capitis (hGISC) was evaluated.

Results

Staphylococcus epidermidis (67.4%), Staphylococcus haemolyticus (10.5%) and S. capitis (9.6%) were the most common CoNS species. Of the S. capitis isolates, 75% were methicillin‐resistant and 44% were multidrug‐resistant. No isolate showed decreased susceptibility to vancomycin, but at least 59% displayed the hGISC phenotype. Staphylococcus capitis isolates related to the strain CR01 displaying pulsotype NRCS‐A were found.

Conclusion

Staphylococcus epidermidis, S. haemolyticus and S. capitis were the predominant species detected in neonatal blood cultures by MALDI‐TOF MS. The number of episodes caused by S. capitis increased during the study period, but no isolates with decreased susceptibility to vancomycin were identified. However, S. capitis isolates related to the strain CR01 displaying pulsotype NRCS‐A were found.
Patient and provider characteristics related with prescribing of ADHD medication: Nationwide health insurance claims database study in Korea
Authors: Song Inmyung , Lee Mo Se , Lee Eui‐Kyung , Shin Ju‐Young
Published: June 2017

Background

Little is known about the association between prescribing of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication and the patient's age, gender, and type of medical institution in Asia region.

Introduction

This study investigates the prevalence and factors of diagnosis and pharmacological treatment of ADHD in the pediatric population.

Methods

Using the Korea Health Insurance database, study participants were identified as pediatric patients (≤17 years) with at least 1 diagnosis of ADHD (ICD‐10, F90) from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2011. The annual prevalence of ADHD diagnosis and medication was calculated. Annual differences in the prevalence between 2007 and 2011 with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. We conducted multiple logistic regression analysis to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and their 95% CI to investigate predictors associated with prescribing of ADHD medication.

Results

The prevalence of ADHD medication prescribing increased by 26.57% (95% CI, 26.27‐26.88) from 0.53% in 2007 to 0.72% in 2011. The prevalence increased by 41.56% (95% CI, 40.51‐42.65) in females compared with 34.91% (95% CI, 34.47‐35.36) in males. Whereas the prevalence decreased in patients younger than 6 years old, it increased by 74.30% (95% CI, 72.84‐75.79) in the 13 to 17–year group. Males were more likely than females to be treated with ADHD medication (aOR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.10‐1.13). Physician specialty (psychiatry vs non‐psychiatry) (aOR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.34‐1.40) were associated with prescribing of ADHD medication.

Conclusion

Rapid increases in the diagnosis and pharmacological treatment of ADHD in the pediatric population have been observed. While demographic characteristics were similar to other countries, provider characteristics were different with others reporting that the majority of patients were treated by physicians specializing in psychiatry.
Survival of spray‐dried and free‐cells of potential probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum 564 in soft goat cheese
Authors: Radulović Zorica , Miočinović Jelena , Mirković Nemanja , Mirković Milica , Paunović Dušanka , Ivanović Marina , Seratlić Sanja
Published: June 2017

A high viability of probiotics in food product, with a living cells threshold of 107/cfu/g (colony‐forming units/g) is a challenge to achieve in food production. Spray drying is an efficient and economic industrial method for probiotic bacterial preservation and its application in food products. In this study, the survival of free and spray‐dried cells of potential probiotic strain Lactobacillus plantarum 564 after production and during 8 weeks of storage of soft acid coagulated goat cheese was investigated, as well as compositional and sensory quality of cheese. Total bacterial count of spray‐dried Lb. plantarum 564 cells were maintained at the high level of 8.82 log/cfu/g in cheese after 8 weeks of storage, while free‐cell number decreased to 6.9 log/cfu/g. However, the chemical composition, pH values and sensory evaluation between control cheese (C1 sample made with commercial starter culture) and treated cheese samples (C2 and C3, made with the same starter, with the addition of free and spray‐dried Lb. plantarum 564 cells, respectively) did not significantly differ. High viability of potential probiotic bacteria and acceptable sensory properties indicate that spray‐dried Lb. plantarum 564 strain could be successfully used in the production of soft acid coagulated goat cheeses.
Reproductive biology of Philodryas patagoniensis (Snakes: Dipsadidae) in south Brazil: Female reproductive cycle
Authors: Loebens Luiza , Rojas Claudio Augusto , Almeida‐Santos Selma Maria , Cechin Sonia Zanini
Published: June 2017

In this study, we describe the female reproductive cycle of Philodryas patagoniensis in south Brazil, which was described through morpho‐anatomical and histological analyses. The peak of secondary vitellogenesis occurred during winter–spring (July–December), ovulation in spring (October–December), mating and fertilization in spring–summer (October–February), oviposition in spring–autumn (October–May) and births from late spring to autumn (December–July). The diameter of vitellogenic follicles/eggs was larger in winter–spring than in other seasons. The diameter of the shell glands was also larger in winter–spring. In spite of the clear reproductive peak, gonads only showed reduced activity in the autumn. Therefore, at the individual level, females have a discontinuous cyclical reproduction; in the populational level, the reproductive cycle is seasonal semisynchronous. We support the hypothesis that P. patagoniensis have the ability to produce multiple clutches with long‐term stored sperm. Sexual dimorphism in body size was evident, and females are significantly larger and heavier than males. Larger females were able to produce follicles and eggs in larger amount and size. The maternal body size was positively related to the reproductive effort and fecundity. To conclude, we deliberated about the proximal and distal causes that influence the reproductive traits and patterns of P. patagoniensis.
Impact of preoperative calculation of nephron volume loss on future of partial nephrectomy techniques; planning a strategic roadmap for improving functional preservation and securing oncological safety
Authors: Rha Koon H. , Abdel Raheem Ali , Park Sung Y. , Kim Kwang H. , Kim Hyung J. , Koo Kyo C. , Choi Young D. , Jung Byung H. , Lee Sang K. , Lee Won K. , Krishnan Jayram , Shin Tae Y. , Cho Jin‐Seon
Published: June 2017

Objectives

To assess the correlation of the resected and ischaemic volume (RAIV), which is a preoperatively calculated volume of nephron loss, with the amount of postoperative renal function (PRF) decline after minimally invasive partial nephrectomy (PN) in a multi‐institutional dataset.

Patients and Methods

We identified 348 patients from March 2005 to December 2013 at six institutions. Data on all cases of laparoscopic (n = 85) and robot‐assisted PN (n = 263) performed were retrospectively gathered. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to identify the associations between various time points of PRF and the RAIV, as a continuous variable.

Results

The mean (sd) RAIV was 24.2 (29.2) cm3. The mean preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the eGFRs at postoperative day 1, 6 and 36 months after PN were 91.0 and 76.8, 80.2 and 87.7 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively. In multivariable linear regression analysis, the amount of decline in PRF at follow‐up was significantly correlated with the RAIV (β 0.261, 0.165, 0.260 at postoperative day 1, 6 and 36 months after PN, respectively). This study has the limitation of its retrospective nature.

Conclusion

Preoperatively calculated RAIV significantly correlates with the amount of decline in PRF during long‐term follow‐up. The RAIV could lead our research to the level of prediction of the amount of PRF decline after PN and thus would be appropriate for assessing the technical advantages of emerging techniques.
Standard errors and confidence intervals for correlations corrected for indirect range restriction: A simulation study comparing analytic and bootstrap methods
Authors: Kennet‐Cohen Tamar , Kleper Dvir , Turvall Elliot
Published: June 2017

A frequent topic of psychological research is the estimation of the correlation between two variables from a sample that underwent a selection process based on a third variable. Due to indirect range restriction, the sample correlation is a biased estimator of the population correlation, and a correction formula is used. In the past, bootstrap standard error and confidence intervals for the corrected correlations were examined with normal data. The present study proposes a large‐sample estimate (an analytic method) for the standard error, and a corresponding confidence interval for the corrected correlation. Monte Carlo simulation studies involving both normal and non‐normal data were conducted to examine the empirical performance of the bootstrap and analytic methods. Results indicated that with both normal and non‐normal data, the bootstrap standard error and confidence interval were generally accurate across simulation conditions (restricted sample size, selection ratio, and population correlations) and outperformed estimates of the analytic method. However, with certain combinations of distribution type and model conditions, the analytic method has an advantage, offering reasonable estimates of the standard error and confidence interval without resorting to the bootstrap procedure's computer‐intensive approach. We provide SAS code for the simulation studies.
l‐Homocysteine‐induced cathepsin V mediates the vascular endothelial inflammation in hyperhomocysteinaemia
Authors: Leng Yi‐Ping , Ma Ye‐Shuo , Li Xiao‐Gang , Chen Rui‐Fang , Zeng Ping‐Yu , Li Xiao‐Hui , Qiu Cheng‐feng , Li Ya‐Pei , Zhang Zhen , Chen Alex F
Published: June 2017

Background and Purpose

Vascular inflammation, including the expression of inflammatory cytokines in endothelial cells, plays a critical role in hyperhomocysteinaemia‐associated vascular diseases. Cathepsin V, specifically expressed in humans, is involved in vascular diseases through its elastolytic and collagenolytic activities. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of cathepsin V on l‐homocysteine‐induced vascular inflammation.

Experimental Approach

A high methionine diet‐induced hyperhomocysteinaemic mouse model was used to assess cathepsin V expression and vascular inflammation. Cultures of HUVECs were challenged with l‐homocysteine and the cathepsin L/V inhibitor SID to assess the pro‐inflammatory effects of cathepsin V. Transfection and antisense techniques were utilized to investigate the effects of cathepsin V on the dual‐specificity protein phosphatases (DUSPs) and MAPK pathways.

Key Results

Cathepsin L (human cathepsin V homologous) was increased in the thoracic aorta endothelial cells of hyperhomocysteinaemic mice; l‐homocysteine promoted cathepsin V expression in HUVECs. SID suppressed the activity of cathepsin V and reversed the up‐regulation of inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α), adhesion and chemotaxis of leukocytes and vascular inflammation induced by l‐homocysteine in vivo and in vitro. Increased cathepsin V promoted the degradation of DUSP6 and DUSP7, phosphorylation and subsequent nuclear translocation of ERK1/2, phosphorylation of STAT1 and expression of IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α.

Conclusions and Implications

This study has identified a novel mechanism, which shows that l‐homocysteine‐induced upregulation of cathepsin V mediates vascular endothelial inflammation under high homocysteine condition partly via ERK1/2/STAT1 pathway. This mechanism could represent a potential therapeutic target in hyperaemia‐associated vascular diseases.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Spotlight on Small Molecules in Cardiovascular Diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.8/issuetoc
N‐acylsulfonamides: Synthetic routes and biological potential in medicinal chemistry
Authors: Ammazzalorso Alessandra , De Filippis Barbara , Giampietro Letizia , Amoroso Rosa
Published: June 2017

Sulfonamide is a common structural motif in naturally occurring and synthetic medicinal compounds. The rising interest in sulfonamides and N‐acyl derivatives is attested by the large number of drugs and lead compounds identified in last years, explored in different fields of medicinal chemistry and showing biological activity. Many acylsulfonamide derivatives were designed and synthesized as isosteres of carboxylic acids, being the characteristics of these functional groups very close. Starting from chemical routes to N‐acylsulfonamides, this review explores compounds of pharmaceutical interest, developed as enzymatic inhibitors or targeting receptors.
For Better or Worse? System‐Justifying Beliefs in Sixth‐Grade Predict Trajectories of Self‐Esteem and Behavior Across Early Adolescence
Authors: Godfrey Erin B. , Santos Carlos E. , Burson Esther
Published: June 2017

Scholars call for more attention to how marginalization influences the development of low‐income and racial/ethnic minority youth and emphasize the importance of youth's subjective perceptions of contexts. This study examines how beliefs about the fairness of the American system (system justification) in sixth grade influence trajectories of self‐esteem and behavior among 257 early adolescents (average age 11.4) from a diverse, low‐income, middle school in an urban southwestern city. System justification was associated with higher self‐esteem, less delinquent behavior, and better classroom behavior in sixth grade but worse trajectories of these outcomes from sixth to eighth grade. These findings provide novel evidence that system‐justifying beliefs undermine the well‐being of marginalized youth and that early adolescence is a critical developmental period for this process.
Assessing causal effects of early life‐course factors on early childhood caries in 5‐year‐old Ugandan children using directed acyclic graphs (DAGs): A prospective cohort study
Authors: Birungi Nancy , Fadnes Lars T. , Kasangaki Arabat , Nankabirwa Victoria , Okullo Isaac , Lie Stein A. , Tumwine James K. , Åstrøm Anne N. ,   PROMISE‐EBF study group
Published: June 2017

Objective

To estimate the effect of distal and proximal early life‐course factors on early childhood caries (ECC) in 5‐year‐old Ugandan children, particularly focusing on the causal effect of exclusive breast feeding (EBF) on ECC using directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) for confounder selection.

Methods

This study had a nested prospective cohort design, focusing on 5 years of follow‐ups of caregiver‐children pairs from the PROMISE‐EBF trial (ClinicalTrials.gov no: NCT00397150) conducted in 2011 in Eastern Uganda. Data were from recruitment interviews, 24‐week, 2‐year and 5‐year follow‐ups of a cohort of 417 mother‐children pairs. Trained research assistants performed interviews with caregivers in the local language and ECC was recorded under field conditions using the World Health Organization's (WHO) decayed missing or filled teeth (dmft) index. Early life‐course factors in terms of socio‐demographic characteristics, EBF and other feeding habits were assessed at the various follow‐ups. The outcome (ECC; dmft>0) was assessed at the 5‐year follow‐up. Causal diagrams as DAGs were constructed to guide the selection of confounding and collider variables to be included in or excluded from the final multivariable analysis. Negative binomial regression analyses were performed based on two comparative DAGs representing different causal models.

Results

Model 1 based on DAG 1, showed EBF to be a protective factor against ECC, with an IRR and 95% CI of 0.62 (0.43‐0.91). According to Model 2 based on DAG 2, EBF and having both parents living together had protective effects: the corresponding IRRs and 95% CI were 0.60 (0.41‐0.88) and 0.48 (0.25‐0.90), respectively.

Conclusions

Both plausible models indicated that being exclusively breastfed for 24 weeks had a protective causal effect against ECC. Further research, examining the unmeasured variables included in the DAGs is necessary to strengthen the present finding and allow stronger causal claims.
Increasing awareness and knowledge of lifestyle recommendations for cancer prevention in Lynch syndrome carriers: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vrieling A. , Visser A. , Hoedjes M. , Hurks M. , Gómez García E. , Hoogerbrugge N. , Kampman E.
Published: June 2017

Lynch syndrome (LS) mutation carriers may reduce their cancer risk by adhering to lifestyle recommendations for cancer prevention. This study tested the effect of providing LS mutation carriers with World Cancer Research Fund‐the Netherlands (WCRF‐NL) health promotion materials on awareness and knowledge of and adherence to these recommendations. In this randomized controlled trial (n = 226), the intervention group (n = 114) received WCRF‐NL health promotion materials. All LS mutation carriers were asked to fill out questionnaires at 2 weeks before (baseline, T0) and at 2 weeks (T1) and 6 months (T2) after the intervention. Linear mixed models were performed on awareness (0‐7) and knowledge (0‐7) of the recommendations, and on the secondary outcomes, that is adherence, distress, cancer worry, and risk perception. Compared with the control group, the intervention group became significantly more aware (overall mean difference = 1.24; 95%CI = 0.82‐1.67) and obtained significantly improved knowledge of the recommendations (overall mean difference = 1.65; 95%CI = 1.27‐2.03). Differences were significantly larger for T1 (Pinteraction = .003 and ≤.001, respectively) but remained significant for T2. No effect on secondary outcomes was found. In conclusion, provision of WCRF‐NL health promotion materials increases awareness and knowledge of lifestyle recommendations for cancer prevention among LS mutation carriers without causing additional distress, but does not affect adherence.
Frequent COL4 mutations in familial microhematuria accompanied by later‐onset Alport nephropathy due to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Papazachariou L. , Papagregoriou G. , Hadjipanagi D. , Demosthenous P. , Voskarides K. , Koutsofti C. , Stylianou K. , Ioannou P. , Xydakis D. , Tzanakis I. , Papadaki A. , Kallivretakis N. , Nikolakakis N. , Perysinaki G. , Gale D.P. , Diamantopoulos A. , Goudas P. , Goumenos D. , Soloukides A. , Boletis I. , Melexopoulou C. , Georgaki E. , Frysira E. , Komianou F. , Grekas D. , Paliouras C. , Alivanis P. , Vergoulas G. , Pierides A. , Daphnis E. , Deltas C.
Published: June 2017

Familial microscopic hematuria (FMH) is associated with a genetically heterogeneous group of conditions including the collagen‐IV nephropathies, the heritable C3/CFHR5 nephropathy and the glomerulopathy with fibronectin deposits. The clinical course varies widely, ranging from isolated benign familial hematuria to end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) later in life. We investigated 24 families using next generation sequencing (NGS) for 5 genes: COL4A3, COL4A4, COL4A5, CFHR5 and FN1. In 17 families (71%), we found 15 pathogenic mutations in COL4A3/A4/A5, 9 of them novel. In 5 families patients inherited classical AS with hemizygous X‐linked COL4A5 mutations. Even more patients developed later‐onset Alport‐related nephropathy having inherited heterozygous COL4A3/A4 mutations that cause thin basement membranes. Amongst 62 heterozygous or hemizygous patients, 8 (13%) reached ESRD, while 25% of patients with heterozygous COL4A3/A4 mutations, aged >50‐years, reached ESRD. In conclusion, COL4A mutations comprise a frequent cause of FMH. Heterozygous COL4A3/A4 mutations predispose to renal function impairment, supporting that thin basement membrane nephropathy is not always benign. The molecular diagnosis is essential for differentiating the X‐linked from the autosomal recessive and dominant inheritance. Finally, NGS technology is established as the gold standard for the diagnosis of FMH and associated collagen‐IV glomerulopathies, frequently averting the need for invasive renal biopsies.
Incidental findings of implant complications on postimplantation CBCTs: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Clark Danielle , Barbu Horia , Lorean Adi , Mijiritsky Eitan , Levin Liran
Published: June 2017

Background

Survival rates of dental implants are reported to be very high and seem to indicate minimal complications related to dental implants.

Purpose

The aim of this report was to evaluate in a cross‐sectional study the prevalence of implant positioning complications as appears in postimplantation Cone‐Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) in two of the major imaging facilities in Bucharest, Romania.

Methods

Demographic and implant data was collected from two of the three main CBCT facilities in Bucharest, Romania. All postimplantation CBCT imaging were assessed and evaluated for the presence of different implant positioning related complications. Data were entered into Excel spreadsheet and analyzed statistically.

Results

Of the 2323 CBCT's that were analyzed, a total of 160 (6.89%) presented with implant positioning related complications. Out of those, 62 cases revealed penetration of the implant to adjacent anatomic structure. More specifically, there were 21 instances of sinus penetration, 19 instances of nasal cavity penetration, 9 instances of inferior alveolar canal penetration, and 13 instances of lingual plate perforations. There were also 15 cases of adjacent tooth injury noted.

Conclusions

Despite the popularity of dental implants, the surgical placement of these implants is not a riskless procedure. Implant mal‐positioning might be life‐threatening and can lead to serious bleeding, airway obstruction, and unnecessary postoperative surgeries. Complications of dental implants are not obsolete and dental implant associated problems may not be apparent immediately. Surgeons must have proper training and use evidenced‐based treatment planning in order to prevent dental implant complications.
Determining the drivers of population structure in a highly urbanized landscape to inform conservation planning
Authors: Thomassen Henri A. , Harrigan Ryan J. , Semple Delaney Kathleen , Riley Seth P. D. , Serieys Laurel E. K. , Pease Katherine , Wayne Robert K. , Smith Thomas B.
Published: June 2017

Understanding the environmental contributors to population structure is of paramount importance for conservation in urbanized environments. We used spatially explicit models to determine genetic population structure under current and future environmental conditions across a highly fragmented, human‐dominated environment in Southern California to assess the effects of natural ecological variation and urbanization. We focused on 7 common species with diverse habitat requirements, home‐range sizes, and dispersal abilities. We quantified the relative roles of potential barriers, including natural environmental characteristics and an anthropogenic barrier created by a major highway, in shaping genetic variation. The ability to predict genetic variation in our models differed among species: 11–81% of intraspecific genetic variation was explained by environmental variables. Although an anthropogenically induced barrier (a major highway) severely restricted gene flow and movement at broad scales for some species, genetic variation seemed to be primarily driven by natural environmental heterogeneity at a local level. Our results show how assessing environmentally associated variation for multiple species under current and future climate conditions can help identify priority regions for maximizing population persistence under environmental change in urbanized regions.
Nodular cutaneous amyloidoma of the extremity secondary to chronic granulomatous inflammation in setting of sarcoidosis
Authors: Billero Victoria L. , Jacobsen Audrey A. , Miteva Mariya I. , Wulkan Adam J. , Marasca Claudio , Romanelli Paolo
Published: June 2017

Soft tissue amyloidoma is a rare condition that presents primarily in the abdomen and/or mediastinum and more uncommonly on the extremities. Soft tissue amyloidomas on the extremities have been associated with chronic inflammation, particularly when accompanied by AA‐type amyloid deposition as seen in local trauma, surgery, hypertension and diabetes. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of nodular cutaneous amyloidoma in the setting of systemic and cutaneous sarcoidosis. A 65‐year‐old woman presented with an asymptomatic subcutaneous nodule above her left lateral malleolus. Histopathology of the lesion showed an inconspicuous epidermis with amorphous eosinophilic material deposited in masses within the entire dermis. Congo red and crystal violet stains were positive. Based on the clinical and pathologic findings she was diagnosed with nodular cutaneous amyloidoma. We hypothesize that this process developed secondary to the chronic granulomatous inflammation of sarcoidosis.
Immunohistochemical dissection of cystic panfolliculoma focusing on the expression of multiple hair follicle lineage markers with an insight into the pathogenesis
Authors: Fukuyama Masahiro , Sato Yohei , Yamazaki Yoshimi , Ohyama Manabu
Published: June 2017

Panfolliculoma (PF) is a rare benign tumor with signs of differentiation toward all components of the hair follicle (HF). Cystic panfolliculoma (CPF) is a subset of PF with histological similarity to trichofolliculoma making the differential diagnosis difficult in some cases. Immunohistopathological investigations of PF have been reported; however, previous studies focused mostly on the expression profile of the outer root sheath markers. Herein, we report a case of CPF. A panel of antibodies was developed and used for the detection of the expression of cytokeratin (CK) 10, CK13, CK14, CK15, hair‐hard keratin (AE13) and EpCAM within the lesion, supporting the differentiation of all epithelial lineages of the HF and the diagnosis of CPF. Immunohistopathological examinations clearly showed the spatial distribution pattern of each subset of tumor cells with distinct HF differentiation marker expression. Intriguingly, fibroblastic dermal cells were distributed preferentially near CK15‐negative epithelium or CK13‐positive HF‐like structures, suggesting a role for epithelial‐mesenchymal interactions (EMIs) in CPF pathogenesis. Further characterization of EMIs between the tumor and surrounding mesenchymal cells in CPF may provide an explanation for immature HF differentiation. These findings suggest that the more intense and coordinated EMI in the analogous tumorigenesis gives rise to mature HF structures, resulting in trichofolliculoma, which may explain their histological resemblance.