bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Two, to Three, to Multi‐Color Switches: Developing AIEgen‐Based Mechanochromic Materials
Authors: Meng Xiao , Chen Changqing , Qi Guangyu , Li Xue , Wang Kai , Zou Bo , Ma Yuguo
Published: June 2017

A multi‐color switching mechanochromic aggregation‐induced emission luminogen (AIEgen) whose fluorescence spectra nearly covers the whole visible region was obtained from attaching spiropyran (SP) moiety on tetraphenylethylene (TPE). The covalent attachment of SP to TPE is crucial. It enables the tuning of the fluorescence of SP‐TPE dyads from no color change, to two‐color switching, to three‐color switching under grinding, based on the amorphization of TPE moiety and isomerization of spiropyran moiety. Under quantifiable hydrostatic pressures, the multi‐color switch with wide spectral response region was obtained resulting from distinct pressure thresholds for supramolecular and chemical structural changes. The attached spiropyran helped to enhance the response of the mechanochromic AIEgens to show more fantastic and obvious responses. The multi‐color changes and obvious responses in a wider visible region and an enhancement of fluorescence intensity give this molecule great potential for applications in visual pressure sensors, pressure calibration, etc.
Laryngeal chondrosarcoma mimicking medullary thyroid carcinoma on fine‐needle aspiration cytology: A case report of a diagnostic pitfall
Authors: Vahidi Shifteh , Amin Khalid , Stewart Jimmie
Published: June 2017

Chondrosarcoma (CS) of larynx is a rare laryngeal tumor accounting about 1% of laryngeal malignancies. When CS arises from thyroid cartilage, it may clinically present as a thyroid nodule. Here we report a rare case of CS of thyroid cartilage misinterpreted as medullary thyroid carcinoma. The main aim of this case report is to emphasize the important role of accurate clinical history, appropriate physical examination, and proper localization of the tumor and clear definitive imaging in conjunction with interpretation of cytologic smears. When any of these roles are unclear, it may result in misinterpretation of the cytologic smears. In these unusual circumstances, when cytomorphologic features does not completely fit an entity, communication with the physician and the consideration of a broad differential diagnoses in the head and neck pathology may lead to correct diagnosis and avoid diagnostic pitfalls. Also in certain conditions, ancillary studies including laboratory tests are necessary for definitive classification.
Utility of intraoperative frozen sections for thyroid nodules with prior fine needle aspiration cytology diagnosis
Authors: Roychoudhury Sudarshana , Souza Fabiola , Gimenez Cecilia , Glass Ryan , Cocker Rubina , Chau Karen , Kohn Nina , Das Kasturi
Published: June 2017

Introduction

The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of intraoperative frozen section (IFS) in determining the course of surgery in thyroid nodules with a prior fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy diagnosis. In addition, reliability of FNA interpretation to guide surgical management without IFS was investigated.

Material and Methods

This is a retrospective study of all patients who had a FNA biopsy, IFS, and final pathology performed on a thyroid nodule over a 9 month period. The extent of surgery at the time of the IFS was recorded. Subsequent change in surgical procedure following the IFS diagnosis was noted in each of the Bethesda diagnostic categories.

Results

55% of the cases were deferred at IFS overall, with 68 and 86% in Bethesda III and IV categories, respectively. Overall, there was a change in management in 6% of cases.

Conclusions

Our study does not support the use of IFS for nodules with prior FNA interpretation of Bethesda II, III, IV and VI as management was not significantly changed. IFS is of value for nodules with prior FNA diagnosis of Bethesda I for interpretation of nodule, and Bethesda V for planning surgery. A confirmatory diagnosis could not be rendered at IFS for lesions with follicular architecture, which comprised most of the cases in Bethesda III and IV.
A common complication of myelofibrosis presenting as a rare finding in cerebrospinal fluid cytology
Authors: Ruiz‐Cordero Roberto , Jorgensen Jeffrey L. , Krishnamurthy Savitri , Landon Gene
Published: June 2017

Herein, we present a rare case of intracranial extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) diagnosed by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytology and describe the clinical presentation, radiologic, and pathologic findings. A 65 year‐old man with a history of progressing primary myelofibrosis was admitted for headaches and right facial numbness. A brain MRI revealed focal abnormalities that were suspicious for leptomeningeal involvement of acute leukemia. Cytologic examination of CSF demonstrated a hypercellular specimen composed of hematopoietic cells including few blasts, as well as maturing red blood cells and granulocytic cells. The integration of morphologic findings, peripheral blood and bone marrow counts, as well as flow cytometric analysis of CSF and bone marrow, excluded leptomeningeal involvement by leukemic blasts and helped establish the diagnosis of intracranial EMH. Inclusion of EMH in the differential diagnosis of intracranial pathology in patients with known conditions predisposing them to EMH is important because recognizing this rare event has implications for treatment and prognosis.
The manual orienting response habituation to repeated tactile stimuli in preterm neonates: Discrimination of stimulus locations and interstimulus intervals
Authors: Dumont Victoria , Bulla Jan , Bessot Nicolas , Gonidec Julie , Zabalia Marc , Guillois Bernard , Roche‐Labarbe Nadège
Published: June 2017

Preterm infants frequently develop atypical sensory profiles, the tactile modality being particularly affected. However, there is a lack of recent investigation of neonatal tactile perception in a passive context, especially in preterms who are particularly exposed to this tactile stimuli. Our aims were to provide evidence of orienting responses (behavioral modifications directing subject's attention towards stimuli) and habituation to passive tactile stimuli in preterm neonates, to explore their ability to perceive spatial and temporal aspects of the stimulus, and to evaluate the effect of clinical factors on these abilities. We included 61 preterm neonates, born between 32 and 34 weeks of gestational age. At 35 weeks of corrected gestational age, we measured orienting responses (forearm, hand, and fingers movements) during vibrotactile stimulation of their hand and forearm; during a habituation and dishabituation paradigm, the dishabituation being either a location change or a pause in the stimulation sequence. Preterm newborns displayed a manual orienting response to vibrotactile stimuli which significantly decreased when the stimulus was repeated, regardless of the stimulated location on the limb. Habituation was delayed in subjects born at a younger gestational age, smaller birth weight, and having experienced more painful care procedures. Preterm neonates perceived changes in stimulus location and interstimulus time interval. Our findings provide insights on several aspects of the perception of repeated tactile stimuli by preterm neonates, and the first evidence of the early development of temporal processing abilities in the tactile modality. Future work will investigate the links between this ability and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Support students with food allergies during study abroad
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: June 2017

William Siegart, D.O., chief medical officer for On Call International, explains why effective policies and procedures are important to minimize risk for students with food allergies who study abroad. “The best way to test a new culture is not to test its emergency medical response,” he said. Review how you can educate campus officials about these students' needs and collaborate to address them.
Linking riparian shade and the legacies of forest management to fish and vertebrate biomass in forested streams
Authors: Kaylor Matthew J. , Warren Dana R.
Published: June 2017

Determining the factors that limit abundance and biomass of fish is fundamental to effective fisheries management. In streams, pool availability, cover, and habitat complexity often limit fish—particularly salmonids—and many restoration efforts are directed toward addressing physical habitat factors. However, the availability of prey, and the factors that influence prey abundance, can also influence the abundance, biomass, and growth of fish and other consumers. Both habitat and prey availability can be influenced by characteristics of the riparian forest in headwaters. In this study, we evaluate how variables associated with stream habitat, primary production, and macroinvertebrate biomass account for variability in the biomass of cutthroat trout and total vertebrates (fish and salamanders) across a series of paired stream reaches with contrasting forest structure. Each of nine stream pairs consisted of an old‐growth reach and a reach bordered by 40‐ to 60‐yr‐old second‐growth riparian forest. We evaluated relationships between response and explanatory variables for each forest structure type using correlation analysis, regression analysis, andAICc model comparison analyses. We also conducted correlation and regression analyses on within‐stream reach pair differences across the nine study streams. Canopy openness, nitrate concentration, periphyton chlorophyllaaccrual, total invertebrate biomass, predatory invertebrate biomass, cutthroat trout biomass, and total vertebrate biomass were all positively correlated with each other, while temperature was negatively correlated with biotic variables. Within reach pairs, canopy openness emerged as the strongest correlate with top predators, with differences in canopy openness explaining 84% of the variation in vertebrate biomass differences in the paired analysis. Other habitat metrics were poorly correlated with invertebrate, fish, and salamander biomass for all analyses. Overall, these results suggest that for the stream reaches surveyed here, resource availability—as regulated through bottom‐up, autotrophic pathways—is a dominant control on fish and other consumers. This highlights the importance of food resource limitation for fish and top predators in headwater streams, and illustrates how differences in canopy structure can affect bottom‐up drivers of stream food webs.
A Case of Self‐Organization in Highly Emissive EuIII Ionic Liquids
Authors: Leal João P. , Outis Mani , Casimiro Maria H. , Ferreira Luis M. , Fernandes Fábio , Monteiro Bernardo , Laia César A. T. , Pereira Cláudia C. L.
Published: June 2017

Intrinsic photoluminescent ionic liquids based on europium(III) tetrakis(β‐diketonate) complexes with a tetraalkylphosphonium as the counterion were synthesized. Two are room temperature ionic liquids; [P6,6,6,14][Eu(fod)4] (1) {fod is 1,1,1,2,2,3,3‐heptafluoro‐7,7‐dimethyloctane‐4,6‐dionate} and [P6,6,6,14][Eu(fod)3(dbm)] (2) {dbm is dibenzoylmethanate}, while calorimetric measurements showed a melting point at 415 K for [P6,6,6,14][Eu(dbm)4] (3). The luminescence quantum yields determined for 1, 2, and 3 are 34, 59 %, and 64 %, respectively. The photoluminescence and thermochemical properties of the complexes were investigated in detail and the influence of the long chain tetraalkylphosphonium counterion, together with the aromatic diketone ligand, on the unusual thermal behavior of 2 is discussed.
Optimization of leaching parameters of aluminum hydroxide extraction from bauxite waste using the taguchi method
Authors: Bayca Salih U. , Kisik Hakan
Published: June 2017

In this study, the statistical optimization of the leaching parameters of aluminum hydroxide extraction from bauxite waste (red mud) was investigated. The extraction parameters were solid‐to‐liquid ratio, base concentration, reaction temperature, leaching time, and stirring speed. Optimum experimental conditions were carried out by the Taguchi method. A higher dissolution rate was found to give better performance characteristics. The most important parameter was determined using the statistical analysis of variance. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 196–202, 2018
Biodegradation of anthraquinone based dye using an isolated strain Staphylococcus hominis subsp. hominis DSM 20328
Authors: Parmar Neha D. , Shukla Sanjeev R.
Published: June 2017

Biodegradation of a cotton‐reactive dye (C. I. Reactive Blue 4, 50 mg/L) based on anthraquinone chromophore was attempted by a newly isolated bacterial species, Staphylococcus hominis subsp. hominis DSM 20328. The maximum dye decolorization efficiency was found to be 97% in 24 h upon optimization of pH, temperature, concentrations of carbon source and dye, salt, and glucose. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis and High Pressure Liquid Chromatography was used to observe changes in the dye structure caused by the biodegradation, while the pathway for degradation was suggested by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry analysis. One of the metabolites formed was revealed to be catechol. Reduction in toxicity of the dye by formation of metabolites was established with the phytotoxicity and microtoxicity studies. Thus, the isolated bacterial species has a potential application in remediation of dyes and the decolorized wastewater can be safely disposed off into agricultural fields. To our knowledge, it is for the first time that a non‐pathogenic bacterial strain of Staphylococcus species is being reported with decolorizing ability for anthraquinone chromophore‐based dye along with the detailed mechanism of dye degradation. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 203–214, 2018
Production of levulinic acid from glucose by dual solid‐acid catalysts
Authors: Acharjee Tapas C. , Lee Yoon Y.
Published: June 2017

Levulinic acid (LA) is a versatile specialty chemical usable as a building‐block for synthesis of various chemicals. In this study, a series of solid Lewis acid catalysts were prepared and tested for glucose to fructose isomerization. We also tested Amberlyst‐15, primarily a Bronsted solid acid with limited ‐sites of Lewis acid, to investigate conversion of fructose to LA. Among the Lewis solid acid catalysts tested, tin imbedded on large‐pore zeolite (Sn‐Beta) has shown the highest specific activity in isomerization of glucose to fructose in aqueous media. The concurrent use of the dual‐catalysts of Sn‐beta and Amberlyst‐15 was further investigated. The dual‐acid catalyst has improved the yield of LA over that of Amberlyst‐15 alone, from 37 to 45% of the theoretical maximum. The improvement was due to enhanced isomerization of glucose to fructose by Sn‐Beta. Stability tests have shown that the Sn‐beta zeolite catalyst loses 20% of its activity after five consecutive batch‐cycles. The activity of this catalyst, however, was fully regenerated by calcination. Ambelyst‐15 also suffers from deactivation, which is lower than that of Sn‐Beta. The deactivation is primarily due to humin deposit on the surface of the catalyst. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 471–480, 2018
Adsorption of phosphate from aqueous solution by Zr(IV)‐crosslinked quaternized chitosan/bentonite composite
Authors: Wang Jing , Liu Yanping , Hu Pan , Huang Ruihua
Published: June 2017

Zr(IV)‐crosslinked HACC/BT composite was prepared and characterized by FTIR, XRD, and SEM techniques. This composite was applied for the adsorption of phosphate ions from aqueous solutions. The factors of various parameters including adsorbent dosage, pH, competing anions, and contact time affecting phosphate adsorption were studied. The adsorption isotherm data were well described by both Langmuir and Freundlich models, and the maximum monolayer adsorption capacity for phosphate was estimated to be 65.35 mg/g at 293 K and natural pH. Kinetic experiments demonstrated that phosphate adsorption fitted better with a pseudo‐second‐order model. The adsorption mechanisms included the electrostatic interaction, ligand exchange, and hydrogen bond formation between phosphate and this composite. Thermodynamic parameters confirmed the exothermic and spontaneous nature of the phosphate adsorption. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 267–275, 2018
Calibration of paired watersheds: Utility of moving sums in presence of externalities
Authors: Ssegane Herbert , Amatya Devendra M. , Muwamba Augustine , Chescheir George M. , Appelboom Tim , Tollner E.W. , Nettles Jami E. , Youssef Mohamed A. , Birgand François , Skaggs R.W.
Published: June 2017

Historically, paired watershed studies have been used to quantify the hydrological effects of land use and management practices by concurrently monitoring 2 similar watersheds during calibration (pretreatment) and post‐treatment periods. This study characterizes seasonal water table and flow response to rainfall during the calibration period and tests a change detection technique of moving sums of recursive residuals (MOSUM) to select calibration periods for each control–treatment watershed pair when the regression coefficients for daily water table elevation were most stable to minimize regression model uncertainty. The control and treatment watersheds were 1 watershed of 3–4‐year‐old intensely managed loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) with natural understory, 1 watershed of 3–4‐year‐old loblolly pine intercropped with switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), 1 watershed of 14–15‐year‐old thinned loblolly pine with natural understory (control), and 1 watershed of switchgrass only. The study period spanned from 2009 to 2012. Silvicultural operational practices during this period acted as external factors, potentially shifting hydrologic calibration relationships between control and treatment watersheds. MOSUM results indicated significant changes in regression parameters due to silvicultural operations and were used to identify stable relationships for water table elevation. None of the calibration relationships developed using this method were significantly different from the classical calibration relationship based on published historical data. We attribute that to the similarity of historical and 2010–2012 leaf area index on control and treatment watersheds as moderated by the emergent vegetation. Although the MOSUM approach does not eliminate the need for true calibration data or replace the classic paired watershed approach, our results show that it may be an effective alternative approach when true data are unavailable, as it minimizes the impacts of external disturbances other than the treatment of interest.
Imaging of Extracellular pH Using Hyperpolarized Molecules
Authors: Hundshammer Christian , Düwel Stephan , Schilling Franz
Published: June 2017

Many diseases can overrule natural pH regulatory mechanisms and alter the extracellular pH (pHe). A non‐invasive method that resolves pHe in vivo with high spatial and temporal resolution could therefore improve diagnosis and monitoring of diseases, contributing to the concept of precision medicine. During the last decades, several techniques have been proposed to image pHe non‐invasively. The majority of these methods rely on magnetic resonance because of its good spatial resolution, high penetration depth, non‐ionizing radiation and excellent complimentary soft tissue contrast. Dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) is an emerging concept to enhance nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals by more than four orders of magnitude, making it possible to observe in vivo metabolic processes in real‐time. Here, we summarize and review recent developments in pHe imaging techniques based on hyperpolarization methods and give an overview of recently discovered hyperpolarized pH sensor molecules that have been applied in vitro and in vivo.
Isoflavones and their metabolites influence the milk component synthesis ability of mammary epithelial cells through prolactin/STAT5 signaling
Authors: Tsugami Yusaku , Matsunaga Kota , Suzuki Takahiro , Nishimura Takanori , Kobayashi Ken
Published: June 2017

Scope

Isoflavones are a class of polyphonic compounds present in legumes and are called phytoestrogens because of their estrogen‐like activity. Estrogen influences the behavior of mammary epithelial cells (MECs) during pregnancy and lactation. In this study, we investigated the direct influences of isoflavones and their metabolites in milk production ability of MECs.

Methods and results

Mouse MECs were cultured with prolactin and dexamethasone (glucocorticoid analog) to induce milk production ability. Subsequently, lactating MECs were treated with each isoflavone. Coumestrol, biochanin A, genistein, and formononetin decreased the intracellular and secreted β‐casein. On the other hand, p‐ethylphenol, daidzein, and equol did not significantly influence β‐casein production at any concentration. Coumestrol, biochanin A and genistein down‐regulated the mRNA expression of whey acidic protein (WAP), lactoferrin and α‐lactalbumin. In contrast, p‐ethylphenol, daidzein and equol up‐regulated β‐casein and/or WAP with α‐lactalbumin. Furthermore, coumestrol and genistein down‐regulated the expression of prolactin receptor and signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) accompanied by a decrease in STAT5 phosphorylation.

Conclusion

Isoflavones and their metabolites influence the milk production ability of MECs through different interactions with prolactin/STAT5 signaling. Simultaneous intake of multiple isoflavones by consumption of legumes may induce promotive or adverse effects on lactating MECs.
Effect of cocoa's theobromine on intestinal microbiota of rats
Authors: Martín‐Peláez Sandra , Camps‐Bossacoma Mariona , Massot‐Cladera Malen , Rigo‐Adrover Mar , Franch Àngels , Pérez‐Cano Francisco J , Castell Margarida
Published: June 2017

Scope

To establish the role of cocoa theobromine on gut microbiota composition and fermentation products after cocoa consumption in rats.

Methods and results

Lewis rats were fed either a standard diet (RF diet), a diet containing 10% cocoa (CC diet) or a diet including 0.25% theobromine (TB diet) for 15 days. Gut microbiota (fluorescence in situ hybridization coupled to flow cytometry and metagenomics analysis), SCFA and IgA‐coated bacteria were analyzed in fecal samples. CC and TB diets induced lower counts of E. coli whereas TB diet led to lower counts of Bifidobacterium spp., Streptococcus spp. and Clostridium histolyticum‐C. perfingens group compared to RF diet. Metagenomics analysis also revealed a different microbiota pattern among the studied groups. The SCFA content was higher after both CC and TB diets, which was mainly due to enhanced butyric acid production. Furthermore, both diets decreased the proportion of IgA‐coated bacteria.

Conclusion

Cocoa's theobromine plays a relevant role in some effects related to cocoa intake, such as the lower proportion of IgA‐coated bacteria. Moreover, theobromine modifies gut microbiota although other cocoa compounds could also act on intestinal bacteria, attenuating or enhancing the theobromine effects.
Serum carotenoids and colorectal cancer risk: A case‐control study in Guangdong, China
Authors: Huang Jing , Lu Min‐Shan , Fang Yu‐Jing , Xu Ming , Huang Wu‐Qing , Pan Zhi‐Zhong , Chen Yu‐Ming , Zhang Cai‐Xia
Published: June 2017

Scope

Previous epidemiological studies on the association between circulating carotenoids and the risk of colorectal cancer drew inconclusive conclusions. This study aimed to examine serum carotenoids in relation to colorectal cancer risk in a Chinese population.

Methods and results

One case‐control study beginning from July 2010, consecutively recruited 538 eligible colorectal cancer cases and 564 age (5‐year interval) and sex frequency‐matched controls. Serum levels of α‐carotene, β‐carotene, β‐cryptoxanthin, lycopene and lutein/zeaxanthin were detected by HPLC. Unconditional logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence internal (CI) after adjusting for various confounders. Serum levels of α‐carotene, β‐cryptoxanthin and lycopene were found to be inversely associated with colorectal cancer risk. The adjusted ORs of the highest quartile relative to the lowest quartile serum level were 0.49 (95% CIs 0.33–0.72) for α‐carotene, 0.44 (95% CIs 0.29–0.66) for β‐cryptoxanthin, and 0.36 (95% CIs 0.24–0.54) for lycopene, respectively. The association between serum β‐carotene, lutein/zeaxanthin and colorectal cancer risk was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The results indicated that the incidence of colorectal cancer was associated with lower serum levels of α‐carotene, β‐cryptoxanthin and lycopene among Chinese population residing in Guangdong.
Label‐Free Direct Electrical Detection of a Histidine‐Rich Protein with Sub‐Femtomolar Sensitivity using an Organic Field‐Effect Transistor
Authors: Minamiki Tsukuru , Sasaki Yui , Tokito Shizuo , Minami Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2017

There is a growing interest in achieving sensor systems to enable on‐site testing of biomarkers. Herein, a new strategy for highly sensitive protein detection at sub‐femtomolar levels without any labelling has been demonstrated by using an organic field‐effect transistor (OFET). An artificial histidine‐rich protein receptor (NiII‐nitrilotriacetic acid complex, NiII‐nta) functionalizes a detection portion (i.e. an extended‐gate electrode) of the fabricated OFET device. The OFET responds electrically and selectively to a target analyte (bovine serum albumin), meaning that the binding processes at the NiII‐nta on the extended‐gate electrode for the analyte affect the field‐effect properties of the device. Our results demonstrate that the combination of the OFET with the artificial receptor is an ideal approach for label‐free and immune‐free protein detection.
Structure of the Lipopolysaccharide from the Bradyrhizobium sp. ORS285 rfaL Mutant Strain
Authors: Di Lorenzo Flaviana , Palmigiano Angelo , Duda Katarzyna A. , Pallach Mateusz , Busset Nicolas , Sturiale Luisa , Giraud Eric , Garozzo Domenico , Molinaro Antonio , Silipo Alba
Published: June 2017

The importance of the outer membrane and of its main constituent, lipopolysaccharide, in the symbiosis between rhizobia and leguminous host plants has been well studied. Here, the first complete structural characterization of the entire lipopolysaccharide from an O‐chain‐deficient Bradyrhizobium ORS285 rfaL mutant is achieved by a combination of chemical analysis, NMR spectroscopy, MALDI MS and MS/MS. The lipid A structure is shown to be consistent with previously reported Bradyrhizobium lipid A, that is, a heterogeneous blend of penta‐ to hepta‐acylated species carrying a nonstoichiometric hopanoid unit and possessing very‐long‐chain fatty acids ranging from 26:0(25‐OH) to 32:0(31‐OH). The structure of the core oligosaccharide region, fully characterized for the first time here, is revealed to be a nonphosphorylated linear chain with methylated sugar residues, with a heptose residue exclusively present in the outer core region, and with the presence of two singly substituted 3‐deoxy‐d‐manno‐oct‐2‐ulosonic acid (Kdo) residues, one of which is located in the outer core region. The lipid A moiety is linked to the core moiety through an uncommon 4‐substituted Kdo unit.
Prevalence of CYP3A5 Genomic Variances and Their Impact on Tacrolimus Dosing Requirements among Kidney Transplant Recipients in Eastern North Carolina
Authors: Maldonado Angela Q. , Asempa Tomefa , Hudson Suzanne , Rebellato Lorita M.
Published: June 2017

To assess the prevalence of CYP3A5 genomic variances and their impact on tacrolimus (TAC) dosing requirements among kidney transplant recipients in eastern North Carolina, we conducted a single‐center retrospective cohort study at a large tertiary care medical center. A total of 162 adults who received a kidney transplant between March 1, 2013, and February 28, 2015, and received oral TAC as part of their maintenance immunosuppression were enrolled. Of these patients, 85 patients expressed a genotype with a CYP3A5*1 variant (CYP3A5*1 group), and 77 patients expressed genotypes with other CYP3A5 variants (nonexpressor group). All patients were followed for 1 year posttransplantation. The primary end point was the TAC total daily dose (TDD) required to achieve the first therapeutic trough level based on the presence or absence of the CYP3A5*1 variant. The prevalence of different CYP3A5 variants across race/ethnicities in the study cohort was determined by CYP3A5 genotyping for each patient. The CYP3A5*1 and nonexpressor groups did not differ significantly with respect to sex, mean age, or mean weight. The CYP3A5*1 group was largely African American (93%, p≤0.0005) compared with other race/ethnicities. Among the CYP3A5*1 expressors compared with nonexpressors, the mean TAC TDD in milligrams at the first therapeutic TAC level was significantly higher (12 vs 8 mg/day, p≤0.001). Similarly, the mean TAC TDD in milligrams/kilogram was 50% greater among CYP3A5*1 expressors (0.15 vs 0.1 mg/kg/day, p≤0.0005). The predominant genotypic variants were CYP3A5*3/*3 (33%), CYP3A5*1/*3 (20%), and CYP3A5*1/*1 (19%). This study illustrates the prevalence of the CYP3A5*1 variant among African‐American kidney transplant recipients and the effect of this gene expression on the TAC TDD. Patients with the CYP3A5*1 variant require higher TAC doses, on average, to achieve desirable drug levels. In addition, this study provides transplant clinicians with insight and support to dose TAC more aggressively in African‐American kidney transplant recipients who may be at higher risk for both toxicities as well as poor clinical outcomes related to inadequate immunosuppression.
Recombination via transition metals in solar silicon: The significance of hydrogen–metal reactions and lattice sites of metal atoms
Authors: Mullins J. , Leonard S. , Markevich V. P. , Hawkins I. D. , Santos P. , Coutinho J. , Marinopoulos A. G. , Murphy J. D. , Halsall M. P. , Peaker A. R.
Published: June 2017

The move toward lower cost sources of solar silicon has intensified the efforts to investigate the possibilities of passivating or reducing the recombination activity caused by deep states associated with transition metals. This is particularly important for the case of the slow diffusing metals early in the periodic sequence which are not removed by conventional gettering. In this paper, we examine reactions between hydrogen and transition metals and discuss the possibility of such reactions during cell processing. We analyse the case of hydrogenation of iron in p‐type Si and show that FeH can form under non‐equilibrium conditions. We consider the electrical activity of the slow diffusing metals Ti, V, and Mo, how this is affected in the presence of hydrogen, and the stability of TM‐H complexes formed. Finally, we discuss recent experiments which indicate that re‐siting of some transition metals from the interstitial to substitutional site is possible in the presence of excess vacancies, leading to a reduction in recombination activity.

Periodic ordering of the 3d, 4d, and 5d transition metals with adjacent columns of the periodic table. The metals with hydrogen complexes which have had their electronic properties reported in the literature or in this paper are highlighted in green.
The thermally driven diurnal wind system of the Adige Valley in the Italian Alps
Authors: Giovannini Lorenzo , Laiti Lavinia , Serafin Stefano , Zardi Dino
Published: June 2017

The Adige Valley is one of the major corridors connecting the Po Plain with the inner Alps. A series of permanent weather stations and one wind profiler provide regular monitoring of air temperature, atmospheric pressure, global solar radiation, wind speed and direction over the 140 km valley length and in the adjacent plain. Data from these stations are analyzed for a subset of days on which weather conditions favoured full development of diurnal valley winds in the period 2012–2014. The analysis highlights typical features in the alternating patterns of diurnal up‐valley winds and nocturnal down‐valley winds. In particular, the wind intensity depends linearly on the along‐valley pressure gradient, supporting the concept of a quasi‐steady balance between the pressure gradient and surface friction. Also, in agreement with previous investigations, the amplitude of the surface pressure cycle increases in the up‐valley direction, causing the reversal of the horizontal pressure gradient twice per day. In contrast, no appreciable along‐valley variation in the diurnal temperature range is found. The analysis of surface temperature and pressure measurements suggests that the larger pressure perturbations found far into the valley are caused by the increased depth of the atmospheric layer subject to heating and cooling. Local inhomogeneities in the valley cross‐section, in particular in the vicinity of a large basin, cause temperature and pressure perturbations that are strong enough to alter the typical cycle of down‐ and up‐valley winds. Similarly, local wind convergence over the major cities during the night is explained in terms of the urban heat island effect.
Emerging 0D Transition‐Metal Dichalcogenides for Sensors, Biomedicine, and Clean Energy
Authors: Li Bang Lin , Setyawati Magdiel Inggrid , Zou Hao Lin , Dong Jiang Xue , Luo Hong Qun , Li Nian Bing , Leong David Tai
Published: June 2017

Following research on two‐dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), zero‐dimensional (0D) TMDs nanostructures have also garnered some attention due to their unique properties; exploitable for new applications. The 0D TMDs nanostructures stand distinct from their larger 2D TMDs cousins in terms of their general structure and properties. 0D TMDs possess higher bandgaps, ultra‐small sizes, high surface‐to‐volume ratios with more active edge sites per unit mass. So far, reported 0D TMDs can be mainly classified as quantum dots, nanodots, nanoparticles, and small nanoflakes. All exhibited diverse applications in various fields due to their unique and excellent properties. Of significance, through exploiting inherent characteristics of 0D TMDs materials, enhanced catalytic, biomedical, and photoluminescence applications can be realized through this exciting sub‐class of TMDs. Herein, we comprehensively review the properties and synthesis methods of 0D TMDs nanostructures and focus on their potential applications in sensor, biomedicine, and energy fields. This article aims to educate potential adopters of these excitingly new nanomaterials as well as to inspire and promote the development of more impactful applications. Especially in this rapidly evolving field, this review may be a good resource of critical insights and in‐depth comparisons between the 0D and 2D TMDs.
Preparation and characteristics of mechanical and functional properties of starch/Plantago psyllium seeds mucilage films
Authors: Krystyjan Magdalena , Khachatryan Gohar , Ciesielski Wojciech , Buksa Krzysztof , Sikora Marek
Published: June 2017

The aim of the present study was to reinforce starch‐based films with psyllium mucilage in order to obtain natural, edible, and biodegradable films with improved mechanical and functional properties. The rheological properties of film‐forming solutions can be controlled by the concentration levels of added mucilage. The addition of mucilage reduced the decomposition of the system, which made these films more thermally stable. Those starch–mucilage films were sufficiently transparent and exhibited a low aqueous solubility and as shown in SEM images of such films spherical particles appeared in the structure, probably microcapsules. The addition of mucilage did see an improvement in the mechanical properties of those films, especially at a higher concentration of starch (4% rather than 3%).
Outcome of prenatally diagnosed fetal heterotaxy: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Buca D. I. P. , Khalil A. , Rizzo G. , Familiari A. , Di Giovanni S. , Liberati M. , Murgano D. , Ricciardulli A. , Fanfani F. , Scambia G. , D'Antonio F.
Published: June 2017

Objectives

The main aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the prevalence and type of associated anomalies in fetuses with heterotaxy diagnosed prenatally on ultrasound; the perinatal outcome of these fetuses was also studied.

Methods

An electronic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases was performed. Only studies reporting the prenatal diagnosis of isomerism were included. Outcomes observed included associated cardiac and extracardiac anomalies, fetal arrhythmia, abnormal karyotype, type of surgical repair and perinatal mortality. The analysis was stratified according to the type of heterotaxy syndrome (left (LAI) or right (RAI) atrial isomerism). Meta‐analyses of proportions were used to combine data. Quality assessment of the included studies was performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale for cohort studies.

Results

Sixteen studies (647 fetuses) were included in the analysis. Atrioventricular septal defect was the most common associated major cardiac anomaly found both in fetuses with LAI (pooled proportion (PP), 59.3% (95% CI, 44.0–73.7%)), with obstructive lesions of the right outflow tract occurring in 35.5% of these cases, and in fetuses with RAI (PP, 72.9% (95% CI, 60.4–83.7%)). Fetal arrhythmias occurred in 36.7% (95% CI, 26.9–47.2%) of cases with LAI and were mainly represented by complete atrioventricular block, while this finding was uncommon in cases with RAI (PP, 1.3% (95% CI, 0.2–3.2%)). Abnormal stomach and liver position were found, respectively, in 59.4% (95% CI, 38.1–79.0%) and 32.5% (95% CI, 11.9–57.6%) of cases with LAI, and in 54.5% (95% CI, 38.5–70.1%) and 45.9% (95% CI, 11.3–83.0%) of cases with RAI, while intestinal malrotation was detected in 14.2% (95% CI, 2.5–33.1%) of LAI and 27.1% (95% CI, 7.9–52.0%) of RAI cases. Hydrops developed in 11.8% (95% CI, 2.9–25.6%) of fetuses diagnosed prenatally with LAI. Biventricular repair was accomplished in 78.2% (95% CI, 64.3–89.4%) of cases with LAI, while univentricular repair or palliation was needed in 17.0% (95% CI, 9.7–25.9%); death during or after surgery occurred in 26.8% (95% CI, 4.6–58.7%) of LAI cases. Most children with RAI had univentricular repair and 27.8% (95% CI, 15.5–42.1%) died during or after surgery.

Conclusions

Fetal heterotaxy is associated with a high prevalence of cardiac and extracardiac anomalies. Approximately one quarter of fetuses with heterotaxy died during or after surgery. Abnormal heart rhythm, especially heart block, is common in fetuses with LAI, while this finding is uncommon in RAI. Biventricular repair was common in LAI while univentricular repair was required in the majority of children affected by RAI. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Barriers to Primary Care in Lima, Peru
Authors: Haley Sean J. , Ponce Terashima Javier , Hoffman Kim A. , Cuba Fuentes Maria Sofia , Wisdom Jennifer P.
Published: June 2017

Given Peru's epidemiologic transition, this exploratory study sought to understand the role that primary care holds in Lima's medical system. Key stakeholders in Peru were administered semi‐structured qualitative interviews to understand the factors that influence the availability and quality of primary care. Five areas were targeted for inquiry: financing, the training of primary care providers, access to services, patients’ first contact with the health‐care system, and treatment coordination. Interviewees described primary health‐care services as having a lack of treatment continuity, inconsistent record keeping, and often staffed by recent medical graduates with little primary care training, which can manifest to reduce the use of primary care services. Despite identifying numerous barriers to quality primary care services, interviewees remained committed to the principles of universal access espoused by Peruvian legislation and offered recommendations related to metrics, financing, technology, and workforce development to improve both primary care access and quality.
Prognostic Impact of Change in the Fibrinogen and Albumin Score During Preoperative Treatment in Esophageal Cancer Patients
Authors: Matsuda Satoru , Takeuchi Hiroya , Kawakubo Hirofumi , Fukuda Kazumasa , Nakamura Rieko , Suda Koichi , Wada Norihito , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: June 2017

Background

For resectable advanced esophageal cancer, a transthoracic esophagectomy following preoperative treatment is recognized as one of the standard treatments. Therefore, predictive markers which can be identified before surgery need to be established to identify patients with a poor prognosis.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 102 consecutive patients who underwent curative transthoracic esophagectomy following preoperative treatment in our institution between 2004 and 2013. Based on plasma fibrinogen and serum albumin levels, the pretreatment and preoperative fibrinogen and albumin score (FA score) were investigated and the prognostic significance of the FA score change was compared with RECIST.

Results

The patients were classified according to whether the FA score had remained unchanged or decreased (n = 77) or the FA score increased (n = 25). When the correlation between the response rate and change in the FA score was investigated, the response rate was significantly lower in the group with the increased FA score. In the survival analysis, patients in the increased FA score group exhibited a significantly worse recurrence‐free survival (RFS) (P = 0.038). A multivariate analysis using the clinical stage and the change in the FA score as covariates revealed that a change in the FA score (HR 1.802; P = 0.047; 95% CI 1.008–3.221) was shown to be a significant independent predictive factor for RFS.

Conclusions

A change in the FA score was shown to be an independent prognostic factor for postoperative recurrence in esophageal cancer patients who have undergone transthoracic esophagectomy following preoperative treatment.
Single Local Infiltration Analgesia (LIA) Aids Early Pain Management after Total Knee Replacement (TKR): An Evidence-Based Review and Commentary
Authors: Rodriguez-Merchan E. Carlos
Published: June 2017

Background

There is controversy in the literature regarding the role of single local infiltration analgesia (LIA) after total knee replacement (TKR).

Questions/Purposes

Is single LIA really efficient in controlling pain after TKR?

Methods

A Cochrane Library and PubMed (MEDLINE) search related to the justification LIA after TKR was analyzed. The main criteria for selection were that the articles were focused in the aforementioned question.

Results

Two hundred ninety-nine articles were found until February 9, 2017, but only 27 were selected and reviewed because they were focused on clinical experience with LIA following TKR. Fifteen of them were considered level of evidence (I-II) while 12 had a lower level of evidence (III-IV). LIA reduced the amount of perioperative opioid administration and enabled adequate pain management in conjunction with oral medication without adverse effects. No clinically marked effects on the functional outcome after TKR were detected.

Conclusion

Single dose LIA provides effective analgesia in the initial postoperative period after TKR in most randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses.
Does the absence of human sellers bias bidding behavior in auction experiments?
Authors: Bartling Björn , Gesche Tobias , Netzer Nick
Published: June 2017

This paper studies the impact of human subjects in the role of a seller on bidding in experimental second-price auctions. Overbidding is a robust finding in second-price auctions, and spite among bidders has been advanced as an explanation. If spite extends to the seller, then the absence of human sellers who receive the auction revenue may bias upwards the bidding behavior in existing experimental auctions. We derive the equilibrium bidding function in a model where bidders have preferences regarding both the payoffs of other bidders and the seller’s revenue. Overbidding is optimal when buyers are spiteful only towards other buyers. However, optimal bids are lower and potentially even truthful when spite extends to the seller. We experimentally test the model predictions by exogenously varying the presence of human subjects in the roles of the seller and competing bidders. We do not detect a systematic effect of the presence of a human seller on overbidding. We conclude that overbidding is not an artefact of the standard experimental implementation of second-price auctions in which human sellers are absent.
An integrated macro‐financial risk‐based approach to the stressed capital requirement
Authors: Liu Xiaochun
Published: June 2017

In order to fulfill the stressed minimum capital requirement recently implemented by the Basel III Accord, this paper proposes a risk‐based approach to integrate the change of macro‐financial environments in which financial institutions operate into the modeling of the new required capital charge. Particularly, using a variety of regime‐switching models, I characterize the stressed minimum capital requirement from high risk regimes which are associated with economic recessions and crises. The empirical results show that the proposed approach leads to capital charges 2–3 times higher than those estimated under Basel II Accord, so as to discourage excessive risk taking and hence stabilizing banks' balance sheets. Among competing models, the regime‐switching GJR − GARCH model spends the highest proportion of the out‐of‐sample time in the green zone, which results in the lowest penalties. The results are robust to subsamples.
The Middle East Survey Course: Some Problems and Some Solutions
Authors: Creasey Kate Elizabeth
Published: June 2017

In this short piece, I will begin by raising two points about the future geography of the Middle East survey course and then lay out two salient points that were raised in the course of the panel discussion at MESA.
Tariqah Naqshabandi Bayanullah (TNB): Localization of a Global Sufi Order in Lombok, Indonesia
Authors: Woodward Mark
Published: June 2017

Tariqah Naqshabandi Bayanullah (TNB) is a local branch of the global Naqshabandi order centered in Padamara, East Lombok, Indonesia. It has branches in cities on other Indonesian islands: Surabaya in East Java, and Makassar, Pare Pare, and Gowa in Sulawesi and on Sumbawa. This report is based on interviews with the Syekh (Syiril Fakraʾ, the current leader of thetariqah(Sufi Order), members of his family, and followers from Lombok, Sulawesi and Java; observation of his reception of a group of pilgrims; a religious talk (pengajian) in a village; and on an informal lesson delivered to several of his sons. It focuses on TNB's origins and history, the life story of Syekh Syiril Fakraʾ, TNB's religious orientation, views of other Islamic groups and non-Islamic religions, and its socio-political orientation.
Women Also Know Stuff: Meta-Level Mentoring to Battle Gender Bias in Political Science
Authors: Beaulieu Emily , Boydstun Amber E. , Brown Nadia E. , Dionne Kim Yi , Gillespie Andra , Klar Samara , Krupnikov Yanna , Michelson Melissa R. , Searles Kathleen , Wolbrecht Christina
Published: June 2017

Women know stuff. Yet, all too often, they are underrepresented in political science meetings, syllabi, and editorial boards. To counter the implicit bias that leads to women’s underrepresentation, to ensure that women’s expertise is included and shared, and to improve the visibility of women in political science, in February 2016 we launched the “Women Also Know Stuff” initiative, which features a crowd-sourced website and an active Twitter feed. In this article, we share the origins of our project, the effect we are already having on media utilization of women experts, and plans for how to expand that success within the discipline of political science. We also share our personal reflections on the project.