bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using ocean models to predict spatial and temporal variation in marine carbon isotopes
Authors: Magozzi S. , Yool A. , Vander Zanden H. B. , Wunder M. B. , Trueman C. N.
Published: May 2017

Natural‐abundance stable isotope ratios provide a wealth of ecological information relating to food web structure, trophic level, and location. The correct interpretation of stable isotope data requires an understanding of spatial and temporal variation in the isotopic compositions at the base of the food web. In marine pelagic environments, accurate interpretation of stable isotope data is hampered by a lack of reliable, spatio‐temporally distributed measurements of baseline isotopic compositions. In this study, we present a relatively simple, process‐based carbon isotope model that predicts the spatio‐temporal distributions of the carbon isotope composition of phytoplankton (here expressed as δ13CPLK) across the global ocean at one degree and monthly resolution. The model is driven by output from a coupled physics‐biogeochemistry model, NEMO‐MEDUSA, and operates offline; it could also be coupled to alternative underlying ocean model systems. Model validation is challenged by the same lack of spatio‐temporally explicit data that motivates model development, but predictions from our model successfully reproduce major spatial patterns in carbon isotope values observed in zooplankton, and are consistent with simulations from alternative models. Model predictions represent an initial hypothesis of spatial and temporal variation in carbon isotopic baselines in ocean areas where a few data are currently available, and provide the best currently available tool to estimate spatial and temporal variation in baseline isotopic compositions at ocean basin to global scales.
Impacts to ecosystem services from aquatic acidification: using FEGS‐CS to understand the impacts of air pollution
Authors: O'Dea Claire B. , Anderson Sarah , Sullivan Timothy , Landers Dixon , Casey C. Frank
Published: May 2017

Increases in anthropogenic emissions of sulfur (S) and nitrogen (N) have resulted in increases in the associated atmospheric deposition of acidic compounds. In sensitive watersheds, this deposition has initiated a cascade of negative environmental effects on aquatic ecosystems, resulting in a degradation or loss of valuable ecosystem goods and services. Here, we report the activities of an expert workgroup to synthesize information on acidic deposition‐induced aquatic acidification from the published literature and to link critical load exceedances with ecosystem services and beneficiaries, using the Stressor–Ecological Production function–Final Ecosystem Services (STEPS) Framework and the Final Ecosystem Goods and Services Classification System (FEGS‐CS). Experts identified and documented the sensitive aquatic ecosystem ecological endpoints valued by humans, and the environmental pathways through which these endpoints may experience degradation in response to acidification. Beneficiary groups were then identified for each sensitive ecological endpoint to clarify relationships between humans and the effects of aquatic acidification, and to lay the foundation for future research and analysis to value these FEGS.
Online monitoring of electrocatalytic reactions of alcohols at platinum and gold electrodes in acidic, neutral and alkaline media by capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection (EC‐CE‐C4D)
Authors: Ferreira Santos Mauro Sérgio , Silva Lopes Fernando , Gutz Ivano Gebhardt Rolf
Published: May 2017

An EC‐CE‐C4D flow system was applied to the investigation of electrocatalytic processes by monitoring carboxylic acids formed during the electro‐oxidation at various potentials of primary alcohols (mixture of 1 mmol/L of ethanol, n‐propanol, n‐butanol and n‐pentanol) in acidic, neutral and alkaline media. The electro‐oxidation was carried out on gold and platinum disk electrodes (3 mm of diameter) in a thin‐layer electrochemical flow cell. Products were sampled 50 μm apart from the electrode directly into the capillary. All the generated carboxylates were determined in near real time (less than 2 min) by CE‐C4D in counter‐flow mode, with Tris/HCl buffer solution (pH 8.6) as BGE. Long sequences of 5‐min experiments were run automatically, exploring the applied potential, electrolysis time and solution composition. Electro‐oxidation at 1.5 V (versus Ag/AgCl quasi‐reference) during 50 s in acidic medium was found appropriate for both Pt and Au electrodes when the determination of alcohols after derivatization is intended. A noteworthy selectivity effect was observed on the Au electrode. The signal corresponding to pentanoate is similar on both electrodes while the signal of ethanoate (acetate) is four times larger on gold than on platinum. The carboxylate signals were lower in alkaline medium (below the determination limit on Pt) than in acidic and neutral media. On gold, the formation of carboxylates was anticipated (0.85 V in alkaline medium versus 1.40 V in neutral medium). The automatic online monitoring of electrochemical processes by EC‐CE‐C4D holds great potential to investigate ionic/ionizable intermediates/products of new electrocatalysts and/or alternative fuels.
Affinity capillary electrophoresis and density functional theory study of noncovalent interactions of cyclic peptide [Gly6]‐antamanide with small cations
Authors: Pangavhane Sachin , Böhm Stanislav , Makrlík Emanuel , Ruzza Paolo , Kašička Václav
Published: May 2017

ACE and density functional theory were employed to study the noncovalent interactions of cyclic decapeptide glycine‐6‐antamanide ([Gly6]AA), synthetic derivative of native antamanide (AA) peptide from the deadly poisonous fungus Amanita phalloides, with small cations (Li+, Rb+, Cs+, NH4+, and Ca2+) in methanol. The strength of these interactions was quantified by the apparent stability constants of the appropriate complexes determined by ACE. The stability constants were calculated using the nonlinear regression analysis of the dependence of the effective electrophoretic mobility of [Gly6]AA on the concentration of the above ions in the BGE (methanolic solution of 20 mM chloroacetic acid, 10 mM Tris, pHMeOH 7.8, containing 0–70 mM concentrations of the above ions added in the form of chlorides). Prior to stability constant calculation, the effective mobilities measured at actual temperature inside the capillary and at variable ionic strength of the BGEs were corrected to the values corresponding to the reference temperature of 25°C and to the constant ionic strength of 10 mM. From the above ions, Rb+ and Cs+ cations interacted weakly with [Gly6]AA but no interactions of [Gly6]AA with univalent Li+ and NH4+ ions and divalent Ca2+ ion were observed. The apparent stability constants of [Gly6]AA‐Rb+ and [Gly6]AA‐Cs+ complexes were found to be equal to 13 ± 4 and 22 ± 3 L/mol, respectively. The structural characteristics of these complexes, such as position of the Rb+ and Cs+ ions in the cavity of the [Gly6]AA molecule and the interatomic distances within these complexes, were obtained by the density functional theory calculations.
PNES around the world: Where we are now and how we can close the diagnosis and treatment gaps—an ILAE PNES Task Force report
Authors: Kanemoto Kousuke , LaFrance W. Curt , Duncan Roderick , Gigineishvili David , Park Sung‐Pa , Tadokoro Yukari , Ikeda Hiroko , Paul Ravi , Zhou Dong , Taniguchi Go , Kerr Mike , Oshima Tomohiro , Jin Kazutaka , Reuber Markus
Published: May 2017

An international consensus clinical practice statement issued in 2011 ranked psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) among the top three neuropsychiatric problems. An ILAE PNES Task Force was founded and initially charged with summarizing the current state of the art in terms of diagnosis and treatment, resulting in two publications. The first described different levels of diagnostic certainty. The second summarized current knowledge of management approaches. The present paper summarizes an international workshop of the ILAE PNES Task Force that focused on the current understanding and management of PNES around the world. We initially provide a knowledge update about the etiology, epidemiology, and prognosis of PNES—in adults and in special patient groups, such as children, older adults, and those with intellectual disability. We then explore clinical management pathways and obstacles to optimal care for this disorder around the world by focusing on a number of countries with different cultural backgrounds and at very different stages of social and economic development (United Kingdom, U.S.A., Zambia, Georgia, China, and Japan). Although evidence‐based methods for the diagnosis and treatment of PNES have now been described, and much is known about the biopsychosocial underpinnings of this disorder, this paper describes gaps in care (not only in less developed countries) that result in patients with PNES not having adequate access to healthcare provisions. A range of challenges requiring solutions tailored to different healthcare systems emerges. Continued attention to PNES by the ILAE and other national and international neurologic, psychiatric, and health organizations, along with ongoing international collaboration, should ensure that patients with PNES do not lose out as healthcare services evolve around the world.
Amplitude dependence of equivalent modal parameters in monitored buildings during earthquake swarms
Authors: Ceravolo Rosario , Matta Emiliano , Quattrone Antonino , Zanotti Fragonara Luca
Published: May 2017

This paper investigates the dynamic response of three sample buildings belonging to the Seismic Observatory for Structures, the Italian network for the permanent seismic monitoring of strategic structures, managed by the Italian Department of Civil Protection. The case studies cover different building types that could loosely represent the Italian building stock, with a special emphasis on cultural heritage and masonry structures.

Observed under a low‐intensity seismic swarm comprising about 30 aftershocks after a main event, the three buildings are analysed through an input–output, model‐driven linear dynamic identification procedure, depicting the relation between the shaking level at the site and the variation of the equivalent structural modal parameters, while keeping into account the effects of soil–structure interaction. Finite element models will be used to investigate one of the case studies and to compare the law of variation of the structural modal parameters with respect to simplified models proposed by technical standards. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A simplified circular function–based gas kinetic scheme for simulation of incompressible flows
Authors: Yang L.M. , Shu C. , Yang W.M. , Wang Y.
Published: May 2017

In this paper, the circular function–based gas kinetic scheme (GKS), which is often applied for simulation of compressible flows, is simplified to improve computational efficiency for simulation of incompressible flows. In the original circular function–based GKS, the integral domain along the circle for computing conservative variables and numerical fluxes is usually not symmetric at the cell interface. This leads to relatively complicated formulations for computing the numerical flux at the cell interface. As shown in this work, for incompressible flows, the circle at the cell interface can be approximately considered to be symmetric. As a consequence, the simple expressions for calculation of conservative variables and numerical fluxes at the cell interface can be obtained, and computational efficiency is greatly improved. In the meanwhile, like the original circular function–based GKS, the discontinuity of conservative variables and their derivatives at the cell interface is still kept in the present scheme to keep good numerical stability at high Reynolds numbers. Several numerical examples, including decaying vortex flow, lid‐driven cavity flow, and flow past a stationary and rotating circular cylinder, are tested to validate the accuracy, efficiency, and stability of the present scheme.
An immersed boundary solver for inviscid compressible flows
Authors: Liu Cheng , Hu Changhong
Published: May 2017

In this paper, a simple and efficient immersed boundary (IB) method is developed for the numerical simulation of inviscid compressible Euler equations. We propose a method based on coordinate transformation to calculate the unknowns of ghost points. In the present study, the body‐grid intercept points are used to build a complete bilinear (2‐D)/trilinear (3‐D) interpolation. A third‐order weighted essentially nonoscillation scheme with a new reference smoothness indicator is proposed to improve the accuracy at the extrema and discontinuity region. The dynamic blocked structured adaptive mesh is used to enhance the computational efficiency. The parallel computation with loading balance is applied to save the computational cost for 3‐D problems. Numerical tests show that the present method has second‐order overall spatial accuracy. The double Mach reflection test indicates that the present IB method gives almost identical solution as that of the boundary‐fitted method. The accuracy of the solver is further validated by subsonic and transonic flow past NACA2012 airfoil. Finally, the present IB method with adaptive mesh is validated by simulation of transonic flow past 3‐D ONERA M6 Wing. Global agreement with experimental and other numerical results are obtained.
Baseline integrity property measurement of legacy oil and gas wells for carbon storage projects
Authors: Duguid Andrew , Butsch Robert , Carey J. William , Celia Michael , Chugunov Nikita , Gasda Sarah , Ramakrishnan T. S. , Stamp Vicki , Wang James
Published: May 2017

An import factor for long‐term storage is the integrity of wells penetrating the carbon storage reservoir. Well integrity will play a crucial role in establishing leakage risk in areas where there is a high density of existing (legacy) wells that could intersect operations including depleted petroleum fields where enhanced oil recovery or carbon storage will occur. The objective of this study was to develop methods that establish the baseline flow parameters from individual measurements in five wells in Wyoming. This paper describes the methods used to collect and analyze the data. The methods included isolation logging tools, in situ point and average permeability measurements, and laboratory tests on samples collected in the wells. The log results collected in the wells, considered in conjunction with the core measurements, indicate that interfaces and/or problems with cement placement related to eccentering provide preferential pathways for fluids, which increase the effective permeability of the barrier several orders of magnitude above that of intact cement. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Altered sensorimotor cortical oscillations in individuals with multiple sclerosis suggests a faulty internal model
Authors: Arpin David J. , Heinrichs‐Graham Elizabeth , Gehringer James E. , Zabad Rana , Wilson Tony W. , Kurz Max J.
Published: May 2017

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease that results in a broad array of symptoms, including impaired motor performance. How such demyelination of fibers affects the inherent neurophysiological activity in motor circuits, however, remains largely unknown. Potentially, the movement errors associated with MS may be due to imperfections in the internal model used to make predictions of the motor output that will meet the task demands. Prior magnetoencephalographic (MEG) and electroencephalographic brain imaging experiments have established that the beta (15‐30 Hz) oscillatory activity in the sensorimotor cortices is related to the control of movement. Specifically, it has been suggested that the strength of the post‐movement beta rebound may indicate the certainty of the internal model. In this study, we used MEG to evaluate the neural oscillatory activity in the sensorimotor cortices of individuals with MS and healthy individuals during a goal‐directed isometric knee force task. Our results showed no difference between the individuals with MS and healthy individuals in the beta activity during the planning and execution stages of movement. However, we did find that individuals with MS exhibited a weaker post‐movement beta rebound in the pre/postcentral gyri relative to healthy controls. Additionally, we found that the behavioral performance of individuals with MS was aberrant, and related to the strength of the post‐movement beta rebound. These results suggest that the internal model may be faulty in individuals with MS. Hum Brain Mapp 38:4009–4018, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sirolimus for the treatment of progressive kaposiform hemangioendothelioma: A multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Ji Yi , Chen Siyuan , Xiang Bo , Li Kai , Xu Zhicheng , Yao Wei , Lu Guoyan , Liu Xingtao , Xia Chuncao , Wang Qi , Li Yanan , Wang Chuan , Yang Kaiying , Yang Gang , Tang Xueyang , Xu Ting , Wu Hao
Published: May 2017

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) is an aggressive disease with high morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of sirolimus for the treatment of progressive KHE. A multicenter, retrospective cohort study was conducted in patients with progressive KHE treated with sirolimus. A total of 52 patients were analyzed. Thirty‐seven (71%) patients exhibited Kasabach‐Merritt phenomenon (KMP) and were significantly younger than the patients without KMP [95% confidence interval (CI), 14.39–41.61; p < 0.001]. Patients without KMP were all treated with sirolimus alone, whereas 21 KMP patients with severe symptoms received short‐term combination therapy with prednisolone. Overall, 96% and 98% of patients showed improved relief of notable symptoms and/or improved complications at 6 and 12 months after treatment, respectively. After sirolimus treatment, significant decreases in mean severity scores occurred at 6 months (95% CI, 2.23–2.54, p < 0.001) and 12 months (95% CI, 1.53–1.90, p < 0.001). Compared to KMP patients, patients without KMP showed a response that was similar to but less pronounced during the 12 months of treatment (95% CI, 40.87–53.80; p < 0.001). For subgroup analysis of KMP patients, there were no significant differences in tumor shrinkage between those treated with combination therapy and those receiving sirolimus alone (95% CI, 18.11–25.02; p > 0.05). No patients permanently discontinued treatment due to toxicity‐related events, and no drug‐related deaths occurred. Sirolimus was effective and safe for the treatment of progressive KHE. Sirolimus may be considered as a first‐line therapy or as part of a multidisciplinary approach for the treatment of KHE.
Profile and outcomes of women with pregnancy‐related acute kidney injury requiring dialysis at a center in Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Delayehu , Ahmed Momina , Ibrahim Ahmed , Kedir Seman , Chan Grace
Published: May 2017

Objective

To describe the clinical profile and outcomes of women with pregnancy‐related acute kidney injury (AKI) undergoing dialysis at Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, where the first publicly funded large‐scale dialysis service in Ethiopia was established.

Methods

In a hospital‐based retrospective study, clinical records were reviewed for all women with pregnancy‐related AKI attending the hemodialysis unit at the study center between August 2013 and July 2015.

Results

In total, 42 pregnant women with pregnancy‐related AKI underwent dialysis. Their mean age was 28.9 ± 5.9 years. The most common cause of pregnancy‐related AKI was pre‐eclampsia or eclampsia (31/42, 74%), followed by puerperal sepsis (6/42, 14%). The mean number of dialysis sessions was 4.8 ± 4.6; the most common indication for dialysis was refractory fluid overload (35/42, 83%). Overall, 35 (83%) women were discharged with improvement, 5 (12%) died, and 2 (5%) absconded. Of the five maternal deaths, three women had pre‐eclampsia‐related AKI and two had puerperal sepsis‐related AKI.

Conclusion

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were the leading cause of pregnancy‐related AKI, which can be easily prevented with early diagnosis and timely intervention. Improving the quality of prenatal care to recognize hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, coupled with prompt management, might help to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality related to AKI.
Admitted or Denied: Multilingual Writers Negotiate Admissions Essays
Authors: Wight Shauna
Published: May 2017

This article presents data from a collection of yearlong case studies on resident multilingual writers’ college admissions essays. The focal student in this piece revealed the challenges that such writers face in presenting themselves to college admissions officers. Exploring these cultural and linguistic conflicts, this analysis uses Goffman's performance theories, which argue that writers (re)construct identities in response to changing social cues. Literacy educators, researchers, and policymakers can use these insights to help resident multilingual writers balance the demands of academic audiences with their preferred forms of representation.
Adhesive force between graphene nanoscale flakes and living biological cells
Authors: Al Faouri Radwan , Henry Ralph , Biris Alexandru S. , Sleezer Rob , Salamo Gregory J.
Published: May 2017

We report on a measurement technique that quantifies the adhesive force between multi‐layers of graphene flakes and the cell wall of live Escherichia coli cells using atomic force microscopy (AFM) in‐fluid Peak Force‐ Quantitative Nanomechanical Mapping mode. To measure the adhesive force, we made use of the negative charge of E. coli cells to allow them to stick to positively charged surfaces, such as glass or silicon, that were covered by poly‐L‐Lysine. With this approach, cells were held in place for AFM characterization. Both pristine graphene (PG) flakes and functionalized graphene (FG) flakes were put on the E. coli cells and measurements of lateral size, flake thickness, and adhesion were made. Using this approach, the measured values of the adhesive force between multi‐layers of graphene flakes (total thickness of 50 nm) and E. coli was determined to be equal or greater than 431 ± 65pN for (PG) and 694 ± 98pN for the (FG). More interestingly, the adhesive force of a graphene flake (thickness 1.3 nm) with the cell is determined to be equal or greater than 38.2 ± 16.4pN for the (PG) and 34.8 ± 15.3pN for the (FG). These interaction values can play an important role in determining and understanding the possible toxicity of graphene flakes. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fluorescence hyperspectral imaging (fHSI) using a spectrally resolved detector array
Authors: Luthman Anna Siri , Dumitru Sebastian , Quiros‐Gonzalez Isabel , Joseph James , Bohndiek Sarah E
Published: May 2017

The ability to resolve multiple fluorescent emissions from different biological targets in video rate applications, such as endoscopy and intraoperative imaging, has traditionally been limited by the use of filter‐based imaging systems. Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) facilitates the detection of both spatial and spectral information in a single data acquisition, however, instrumentation for HSI is typically complex, bulky and expensive. We sought to overcome these limitations using a novel robust and low cost HSI camera based on a spectrally resolved detector array (SRDA). We integrated this HSI camera into a wide‐field reflectance‐based imaging system operating in the near‐infrared range to assess the suitability for in vivo imaging of exogenous fluorescent contrast agents. Using this fluorescence HSI (fHSI) system, we were able to accurately resolve the presence and concentration of at least 7 fluorescent dyes in solution. We also demonstrate high spectral unmixing precision, signal linearity with dye concentration and at depth in tissue mimicking phantoms, and delineate 4 fluorescent dyes in vivo. Our approach, including statistical background removal, could be directly generalised to broader spectral ranges, for example, to resolve tissue reflectance or autofluorescence and in future be tailored to video rate applications requiring snapshot HSI data acquisition.
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering analysis of urine from deceased donors as a prognostic tool for kidney transplant outcome
Authors: Chi Jingmao , Ma Yiwei , Weng Francis L. , Thiessen‐Philbrook Heather , Parikh Chirag R. , Du Henry
Published: May 2017

We report the utility of surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) analysis of urine from deceased donors for prognosis of kidney transplant outcomes. Iodide‐modified silver nanoparticles were used as the enabler for sensitive measurements of urine proteins. Principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were employed for the statistical analysis of the SERS data. Thirty urine samples in three classes were analysed. The ATN class consists of donors whose kidneys had acute tubular necrosis (ATN), the most common type of acute kidney injury (AKI) with high risk of poor graft performance in recipients, yet yielded acceptable transplant outcome. The DGF class is comprised of donors whose kidney had delayed graft function (DGF) in recipients. The control class includes donors whose kidneys did not have donor ATN or recipient DGF. We show a sensitivity of more than 90 % in differentiating the ATN class from the DGF and control classes. Our methodology can thus help clinicians choose kidneys in the high‐risk ATN category for transplant which would otherwise be discarded. Our research is impactful in that it could serve as a valuable guidance to expand the deceased donor pool to include those perceived as high‐risk AKI type based on common urinary biomarkers. Picutre: Scheme of SERS analysis of urine samples from deceased donors for kidney transplant outcome indication.
Robust numerical phase stabilization for long‐range swept‐source optical coherence tomography
Authors: Song Shaozhen , Xu Jingjiang , Men Shaojie , Shen Tueng T. , Wang Ruikang K.
Published: May 2017

A novel phase stabilization technique is demonstrated with significant improvement in the phase stability of a micro‐electromechanical (MEMS) vertical cavity surface‐emitting laser (VCSEL) based swept‐source optical coherence tomography (SS‐OCT) system. Without any requirements of hardware modifications, the new fully numerical phase stabilization technique features high tolerance to acquisition jitter, and significantly reduced budget in computational effort. We demonstrate that when measured with biological tissue, this technique enables a phase sensitivity of 89 mrad in highly scattering tissue, with image ranging distance of up to 12.5 mm at A‐line scan rate of 100.3 kHz. We further compare the performances delivered by the phase‐stabilization approach with conventional numerical approach for accuracy and computational efficiency. Imaging result of complex signal‐based optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and Doppler OCTA indicate that the proposed phase stabilization technique is robust, and efficient in improving the image contrast‐to‐noise ratio and extending OCTA depth range. The proposed technique can be universally applied to improve phase‐stability in generic SS‐OCT with different scale of scan rates without a need for special treatment.
Plasmonic nanoparticles‐decorated diatomite biosilica: extending the horizon of on‐chip chromatography and label‐free biosensing
Authors: Kong Xianming , Li Erwen , Squire Kenny , Liu Ye , Wu Bo , Cheng Li‐Jing , Wang Alan X.
Published: May 2017

Diatomite consists of fossilized remains of ancient diatoms and is a type of naturally abundant photonic crystal biosilica with multiple unique physical and chemical functionalities. In this paper, we explored the fluidic properties of diatomite as the matrix for on‐chip chromatography and, simultaneously, the photonic crystal effects to enhance the plasmonic resonances of metallic nanoparticles for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) biosensing. The plasmonic nanoparticle‐decorated diatomite biosilica provides a lab‐on‐a‐chip capability to separate and detect small molecules from mixture samples with ultra‐high detection sensitivity down to 1 ppm. We demonstrate the significant potential for biomedical applications by screening toxins in real biofluid, achieving simultaneous label‐free biosensing of phenethylamine and miR21cDNA in human plasma with unprecedented sensitivity and specificity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time demonstration to detect target molecules from real biofluids by on‐chip chromatography‐SERS techniques.
Membrane therapeutic plasma exchange with and without heparin anticoagulation
Authors: Brunetta Gavranić Bruna , Bašić‐Jukić Nikolina , Premužić Vedran , Kes Petar
Published: May 2017

Background

Administration of an anticoagulant during therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is necessary to avoid circuit clotting and impaired treatment effectiveness. Citrate is the preferred anticoagulant for apheresis worldwide, and unfractionated heparin (UH) is the second most preferred, yet there are only a few published studies regarding the use of UH during TPE. There are even fewer studies regarding the use of low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) and TPE performed without anticoagulation.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the database of the Department of Nephrology at Zagreb University Hospital Center from 1982 to 2014 to test the safety of various heparin anticoagulation in TPE. We grouped procedures according to anticoagulation type (UH, LMWH, and no anticoagulation) and compared differences in the use of anticoagulants during our study period, patient populations, replacement fluids, and complications.

Results

Complications were recorded during 11.1% of the 9,501 procedures. The incidence of any recorded complication was significantly higher in the LMWH group (21.2%) compared to the group with no anticoagulation (16.3%) and the UH group (9.5%) (P < 0.001). Similarly, the blood clotting in the extracorporeal circuit was most common in the LMWH group (LMWH, 12.0%; no anticoagulation, 6.3%; UH, 2.4%; P < 0.001). Incidents of bleeding complications were very low and occurred during or after 13 TPE sessions (0.1% of all procedures).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that TPE procedures can be conducted safely with UH and, when necessary, without anticoagulation. The use of LMWH was associated with more complications when compared with use of UH and to TPE done without anticoagulation. Further studies are necessary to study its use during TPE procedures.
Inhibition of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Apoptosis by Estrogen Protects Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells Through the PI3 Kinase–Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Su Qing , Wang Yu , Yang Xin , Li Xiao‐Dong , Qi Yong‐Fen , He Xiao‐Jing , Wang Yan‐Jie
Published: May 2017

We aimed to investigate whether the cardioprotective effect of estrogen is mediated by inhibiting the apoptosis induced by endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and to explore the underlying signaling pathway responsible for this effect. The effect of estrogen on ERS apoptosis, the mechanism responsible for that effect, and the ERS signaling pathways were examined in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and measured using Western blot, Hoechst stains and caspase‐3 activity assay. In vitro, 10−8 mol/l estrogen directly inhibited the up‐regulation of the ERS marker glucose‐regulated protein 78 (GRP78) and ERS apoptosis marker C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP). ERS was induced using the ERS inducer tunicamycin (TM, 10 µmol/l) or dithiothreitol (DTT, 2 mmol/l) in HUVECs. Estrogen can also decrease the apoptosis cells mediated by ERS, based on the results of Hoechst stains. Protein expression in the three main ERS signaling pathways was upregulated in TM‐ or DTT‐induced HUVEC ERS. Increases in p‐PERK/PERK were the most obvious, and estrogen significantly inhibited the upregulation of p‐PERK/PERK, p‐IRE1/IRE1, and ATF6. These inhibitory effects were abolished by specific estrogen receptor antagonists (ICI182, 780, and G15) and inhibitors of the E2 post‐receptor signaling pathway, including phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002, p38‐mitogen activated protein kinase (p38‐MAPK) inhibitor SB203580, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor SP600125 and extracellular signal‐regulated kinases1/2 (ERK1/2) inhibitor U0126; of these inhibitors, LY294002 was the most effective. Further experiments showed that when the PI3K pathway was blocked, the inhibitory effect of estrogen on ERS apoptosis was reduced. Estrogen can prevent HUVEC apoptosis by inhibiting the ERS apoptosis triggered by the PERK pathway, which may protect vascular endothelial cells and the cardiovascular system. The main mechanism responsible for ERS inhibition is the activation of the PI3K‐Akt pathway for the activated estrogen receptor. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4568–4574, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Andrographolide Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis of Chondrosarcoma by Targeting TCF‐1/SOX9 Axis
Authors: Zhang Huan‐Tian , Yang Jie , Liang Gui‐Hong , Gao Xue‐Juan , Sang Yuan , Gui Tao , Liang Zu‐Jian , Tam Man‐Seng , Zha Zhen‐Gang
Published: May 2017

Chondrosarcoma is the second most malignant bone tumor with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Thus, development of more effective treatments has become urgent. Recently, natural compounds derived from medicinal plants have emerged as promising therapeutic options via targeting multiple key cellular molecules. Andrographolide (Andro) is such a compound, which has previously been shown to induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in several human cancers. However, the molecular mechanism through which Andro exerts its anti‐cancer effect on chondrosarcoma remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we showed that Andro‐induced G2/M cell cycle arrest of chondrosarcoma by fine‐tuning the expressions of several cell cycle regulators such as p21, p27, and Cyclins, and that prolonged treatment of cells with Andro caused pronounced cell apoptosis. Remarkably, we found that SOX9 was highly expressed in poor‐differentiated chondrosarcoma, and that knockdown of SOX9 suppressed chondrosarcoma cell growth. Further, our results showed that Andro dose‐dependently down‐regulated SOX9 expression in chondrosarcoma cells. Concomitantly, an inhibition of T cell factor 1 (TCF‐1) mRNA expression and an enhancement of TCF‐1 protein degradation by Andro were observed. In contrast, the expression and subcellular localization of β‐catenin were not altered upon the treatment of Andro, suggesting that β‐catenin might not function as the primary target of Andro. Additionally, we provided evidence that there was a mutual regulation between TCF‐1 and SOX9 in chondrosarcoma cells. In conclusion, these results highlight the potential therapeutic effects of Andro in treatment of chondrosarcoma via targeting the TCF‐1/SOX9 axis. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4575–4586, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of Small Interfering RNA Silencing Protein Kinase C‐α Gene on the Occurrence of Ultrafiltration Failure in Peritoneal Dialysis Rats
Authors: Sun Zhi‐Wei , Wang Jian , Weng Min , Tang Jian‐Zhong , Wang Jun‐Feng , Xu Jian , Lin Ling , Yuan Hong‐Ling
Published: May 2017

This study aims to explore the effect of PKC‐α gene silencing on the occurrence of ultrafiltration failure (UFF) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) rats. Forty‐eight male SD rats were collected to establish 5/6 renal resection uremic and uremic PD rats models. Rats were assigned into control, sham operation, uremia, PD‐2 W (peritoneal dialysis for 2 weeks), PD‐4 W (peritoneal dialysis for 4 weeks), negative control (NC) (peritoneal dialysis for 4 weeks, and injected 0.1 mg/kg blank plasmid into abdominal cavity) and PKC‐α siRNA (peritoneal dialysis for 4 weeks, and injected 0.1 mg/kg PKC‐α siRNA into abdominal cavity) groups. CD34 staining was performed to determine microvessel density (MVD) for peritoneal tissues. The mRNA and protein expression of PKC‐α in peritoneal tissue were detected by qRT‐PCR and Western blot. Compared with the control group, MVD, the mRNA and protein expression of PKC‐α were significantly increased in rats of the uremia, PD‐2 W, PD‐4 W, NC, and PKC‐α siRNA groups. Compared with the uremia group, MVD, the mRNA and protein expression of PKC‐α were increased, the changes observed in the PD‐4 W and NC groups were better obvious than in the PD‐2 W group. In comparison with the PD‐4 W and NC groups, MVD, the mRNA and protein expression of PKC‐α in rats were decreased in the PKC‐α siRNA group. PKC‐α gene has a high expression in uremic PD rats, and PKC‐α gene silencing is able to increase UF while decrease MVD and glucose transport in peritoneal tissues thus reversing UFF in PD rats. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4607–4616, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cover Image, Volume 92, Issue 6
Authors: Pei Ying , Wu Xingjun , Xu Gaoqiang , Sun Zhenjie , Zheng Xuejing , Liu Jie , Tang Keyong
Published: May 2017

The cover image, by Ying Pei et al., is based on the Research Article Tannin‐immobilized cellulose microspheres as effective adsorbents for removing cationic dye (Methylene Blue) from aqueous solution, DOI: 10.1002/jctb.5121.

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Quantitative T2* relaxation time analysis of articular cartilage of the tibiotalar joint in professional football players and healthy volunteers at 3T MRI
Authors: Behzadi Cyrus , Maas Kai‐Jonathan , Welsch Goetz , Kaul Michael , Schoen Gerhard , Laqmani Azien , Adam Gerhard , Regier Marc
Published: May 2017

Purpose

To compare T2* relaxation times of the tibiotalar cartilage between professional football players and matched healthy male volunteers.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐two ankles of professional football players (24.3 ± 3.8 years) and 20 age‐ and body mass index‐matched healthy individuals (25.6 ± 2.4 years) were investigated. The study protocol consisted of multiplanar T1‐weighted, fat‐saturated proton‐density weighted (Pdw) and a 3D multiecho T2* sequence with 22 echo times (4.6–53.6 msec). The articular cartilage was subdivided into six segments. Regions of interest were manually drawn in three zones (lateral, central, medial). Differences and confidence intervals were estimated applying a random effects models. Fixed effects were professional football players versus healthy individuals and areas. The random effect was defined as the person cluster of the different individuals.

Results

T2* values were significantly prolonged in football players compared to male volunteers in all predefined cartilage segments (mean, 17.5 vs. 15.5 msec; P < 0.001). In both groups, the highest relaxation times were found in the lateral zone, with statistically higher relaxation times in professional football players (18.5 vs. 16.5 msec, P = 0.003). Separate evaluation revealed the longest relaxation times in the posterior tibiotalar cartilage, with 21.0 msec for professional football players compared to 19.4 msec for healthy volunteers (P = 0.064).

Conclusion

Based on these initial results, T2* values of the tibiotalar cartilage seem to be elevated in professional football players compared to healthy volunteers. Prospective longitudinal studies should be encouraged to show if these results represent early subtle cartilage lesions prior to clinical manifestation or rather temporary adaptation related to daily high‐level loading.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:372–379.
N‐Methylimidazolidin‐4‐one organocatalysts: gas‐phase fragmentations of radical cations by experiment and theory
Authors: Engeser M. , Mundt C. , Bauer C. , Grimme S.
Published: May 2017

Electron ionisation mass spectra of N‐methylimidazolidin‐4‐one organocatalysts were studied by experimental and theoretical means. The molecular ions mostly undergo alpha cleavages of exocyclic substituents that leave the five‐membered ring intact. The type of substituent strongly dominates the appearance of the spectra. Fragmentation cascades are corroborated by metastable ion mass spectra. Quantum Chemistry Electron Ionisation Mass Spectra calculations correlate reasonably well with the experimental electron ionisation spectra and reveal mechanistic details of fragmentation pathways. The drawbacks and benefits of such calculations are discussed. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The application of biochar on soil acidity and other physico‐chemical properties of soils in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Berihun Tariku , Tadele Muluken , Kebede Firew
Published: May 2017

The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of biochar amendment on soil acidity and other physico‐chemical properties of soil in Southern Ethiopia using a field experiment of three treatments: (1) biochar made of corn cobs, (2) biochar made of choppedLantana camarastem, and (3) biochar made ofEucalyptus globulusfeedstock and a control, in which neither of the biochar was used. Each treatment had three levels of 6, 12 and 18 t ha−1. The experiment was setup with RCBD in a factorial arrangement with three replications. In this regard, a total of 36 plots (each 2 × 2 m size) were applied with three replications to the depth of 0–15cm. From these 36 plots, composite soil samples were collected to the depth of 0–30 cm and analyzed for bulk density, total porosity, pH, soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, potassium, and exchangeable acidity using standard procedures before and after biochar application. Two‐way ANOVA was also used to analyze the impact of the biochars on soil acidity and other properties. For the treatments that had significant effects, a mean separation was made using Least Significance Difference (LSD) test. The results showed the application of biochar significantly reduced, soil bulk density and exchangeable acidity when compared with a control (p< 0.05). Moreover, the total soil porosity, soil pH, total nitrogen, soil organic carbon, available phosphorus, and potassium were significantly increased in the soil. From among applied biochar treatments,Lantana camaraapplied at the level of 18 t ha−1had a higher impact in changing soil physico‐chemical properties. In general, the study suggests that the soil acidity can be reduced by applying biochar as it can amend other soil physico‐chemical properties.
Cowpea fresh pods – a new legume for the market: assessment of their quality and dietary characteristics of 37 cowpea accessions grown in southern Europe
Authors: Karapanos Ioannis , Papandreou Anastasia , Skouloudi Marianna , Makrogianni Despoina , Fernández Juan A , Rosa Eduardo , Ntatsi Georgia , Bebeli Penelope J , Savvas Dimitrios
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Cowpea is traditionally cultivated in some regions of southern Europe for its dried seeds; however, there is a scarcity of information on the quality and dietary characteristics of fresh pods, which are occasionally used in folk diets. This paper aims at covering this gap in knowledge, thereby contributing to the dissemination of fresh cowpea pods as a novel product for the market. The quality and dietary characteristics of pods from 37 accessions (Vigna unguiculata ssp. unguiculata and ssp. sesquipedalis) grown in southern Europe were assessed in an attempt to provide information on pod quality and nutritional properties and to identify relationships between quality traits and accession origin.

RESULTS

Pods from the sesquipedalis accessions were heavier and larger, and reached commercial maturity 2 days later, than those from the unguiculata accessions. There were also large differences in the quality and dietary characteristics of the accessions. The pods of most accessions were rich in proteins, chlorophylls, carotenoids and phenolics, and showed high antioxidant activity and low concentrations of nitrates and raffinose‐family oligosaccharides. Cluster analysis based on quality, dietary or antinutritional traits did not reveal any apparent grouping among the accessions. All the quality characteristics were independent of accession origin and subspecies.

CONCLUSION

Most of the accessions produced fresh pods of good quality and high dietary value, suitable for introduction in the market and/or for use as valuable genetic material for the development of new improved varieties. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Relevance of the main postharvest handling operations on the development of brown rot disease on stone fruits
Authors: Bernat Maria , Segarra Joan , Casals Carla , Teixidó Neus , Torres Rosario , Usall Josep
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Brown rot caused by Monilinia spp. is one of the most important postharvest diseases of stone fruit. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relevance of the main postharvest operations of fruit – hydrocooling, cold room, water dump, sorting and cooling tunnel – in the development of M. laxa on peaches and nectarines artificially infected 48, 24 or 2 h before postharvest operations.

RESULTS

Commercial hydrocooling operation reduced incidence to 10% in ‘Pp 100’ nectarine inoculated 2 and 24 h before this operation; however, in ‘Fantasia’ nectarine incidence was not reduced, although lesion diameter was decreased in all studied varieties. Hydrocooling operation for 10 min and 40 mg L−1 of sodium hypochlorite reduced brown rot incidence by 50–77% in nectarines inoculated 2 h before operation; however, in peach varieties it was not reduced. Water dump operation showed reduction of incidence on nectarine infected 2 h before immersion for 30 s in clean water at 4 °C and 40 mg L−1 sodium hypochlorite; however, in peach varieties it was not reduced. Cold room, sorting and cooling tunnel operation did not reduce brown rot incidence.

CONCLUSION

From all studied handling operations on stone fruit packing houses, hydrocooling is the most relevant in the development of brown rot disease. Duration of the treatment seems to be more important than chlorine concentration. In addition, hydrocooling and water dump were less relevant in peaches than in nectarines. As a general trend, hydrocooling and water dump reduced incidence on fruit with recent infections (2 or 24 h before operation); however, when infections have been established (48 h before operation) diseases were not reduced. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Locoregional recurrence following maxillectomy: implications for microvascular reconstruction
Authors: Likhterov Ilya , Fritz Michael A. , El‐Sayed Ivan H. , Rahul Seth  , Rayess Hani M. , Knott P. Daniel
Published: May 2017

Objective

Reconstruction of maxillectomy defects offers potential quality‐of‐life improvement, although cavity coverage may impact surveillance of recurrent malignancy. We describe the pattern of postmaxillectomy locoregional recurrence.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Patients from 2001 to 2011 at the University of California, San Francisco and the Cleveland Clinic.

Results

Among 75 patients with malignancy resulting in partial or total maxillectomy, 57 were treated with obturators and 18 underwent reconstructive surgery. Disease recurrence occurred primarily locally (19 of 22 cases of recurrence, 25% of the cohort) at a mean of 17 months postoperatively. Recurrence was associated with T4 disease, positive margins, and surveillance imaging. Four (5.3%) patients required flap mobilization/obturator removal to obtain biopsy. Salvage surgery was attempted in 13 of the 19 cases with recurrent disease (68%) and was successful in six (46%) patients. Of these, five patients initially had Brown type 1 or type 2 defects. The free flap had to be revised in one (1.3%) patient to achieve successful salvage.

Conclusion

Maxillectomy provides good long‐term locoregional oncologic control, with cure being correlated to disease stage at presentation and negative margins after initial surgery. Patients with recurrent disease whose initial resection resulted in a Brown class 3 defect or greater were rarely successfully salvaged. Surveillance is best performed with a combination of physical exam and imaging. Obturator removal/flap mobilization rarely impedes the diagnosis of recurrent disease, and either modality should be offered to appropriate patients in the primary setting if significant quality‐of‐life improvement is likely.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2534–2538, 2017