bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Fabrication Conditions of Chitosan−Fe3O4–Gold Nanoshells as an Anticancer Drug Delivery Carriers
Authors: Lee Yong‐Choon , Kang Ik‐Joong
Published: February 2017

A drug delivery system was designed to maximize the treatment effect for effective drug targeting to specific regions. Drug delivery carriers should safely transport drugs to a specific region in the body. As a nontoxic biocompatible polymer obtained by deacetylation of chitin, chitosan is suitable for use as an anticancer agent delivery carrier. Using gold as an additional nanoparticles is useful as it forms a nano‐complex comparatively quickly when linked with chitosan because the nanoparticle has a negative charge. Additionally, when external energy is applied, gold‐coated nano‐complexes generate heat to emit the absorbed drugs because of their unique metallic properties. Fe3O4 is an oxidized nano size metal with excellent magnetic properties; unlike other metals, it is nontoxic. In this study, the quantities of the reductant, catalyst, and solvent inside the chitosan–Fe3O4–gold nanoshell generated by ionic interactions between the amine, an end group of chitosan, and the metalic nanoparticles were altered and changes to the system evaluated to identify optimal reaction conditions for the drug delivery carrier, which were as follows: 30 μL of 16.5 wt % ascorbic acid, 1.5 mL of 1 wt % gold solution, and 30 μL of 28 wt % ammonium hydroxide.
β1,6‐GlcNAc Linkage to the Core Glycan on TIMP‐1 Affects Its Gelatinase Inhibitory Activities: Aberrantly Glycosylated TIMP‐1‐MMP2 Complex Modeling Shows Weaker Interaction Compared to Bi‐antennary Glycosylated TIMP‐1
Authors: Lee Jin Kak , Han Won Seok , Lee Jun‐Seok , Kim Yong‐Sam , Ko Jeong‐Heon , Yoo Jong Shin , Yoon Chang No
Published: February 2017

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes that can regulate the tumor microenvironment. Metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) is a MMP inhibitor that plays a critical role in the invasion and migration of cancer cells. N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase‐V (GnT‐V) catalyzes the attachment of a β1,6‐N‐acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) linkage to the core glycan, and TIMP‐1 has identified target proteins for GnT‐V. Recent research reveals that aberrantly glycosylated TIMP‐1 showed a weaker inhibition on gelatinase, and that this aberrancy of glycosylation was closely related with cancer cell invasion and metastasis. However, the mechanism of action of glycan modification is not known at the molecular level. In this study, the bi‐antennary and aberrant glycan structures were determined by mass spectrometry, and a model of the glycosylated TIMP‐1‐MMP2 complex was constructed to study the effects of glycosylation on the inhibitory activity of TIMP‐1. Then this model was used to examine the effects of attaching a β1,6‐GlcNAc linkage to the core glycan on the interaction of TIMP‐1 with MMP2. The gelatinase inhibitory activity is decreased when additional a β1,6‐GlcNAc moiety is linked to the core glycan on TIMP‐1. The modeled structure of the glycosylated TIMP‐1‐MMP2 complex reveals how aberrant N‐linked glycan hinders the interaction of these molecules.
Policing students with disabilities requires patience, communication, shift in understanding
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: February 2017

Nearly one‐third to one‐half of all people killed in police shootings have developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities, according to the best estimates included in a white paper published by the Ruderman Foundation entitled “Media Coverage of Law Enforcement Use of Force and Disability.” In a webinar commissioned and directed by the National Center on Criminal Justice and Disability, a panel of grassroots activists and experts discussed how diversity and disability factor into the use of force by police officers. They also discussed how police officers can work to understand how the intersectionality of these issues compounds already fraught situations.
Renal damage following Alloxan‐induced diabetes is associated with generation of reactive oxygen species, alterations of p53, TGF‐β1, and extracellular matrix metalloproteinases in rats
Authors: Abdel Aziz Mohamed A. , Badary Dalia M. , Hussein Mahmoud Rezk Abdelwahed
Published: February 2017

Renal damage is a common problem in diabetes. Alloxan, a potent hyperglycemic and diabetogenic molecule, can induce diabetes through oxidative stress‐related mechanisms. Here, we hypothesize that “Alloxan‐induced renal damage is associated with alterations of p53, TGF‐β1, and extracellular matrix metalloproteinases.” To test our hypothesis, we established an animal model (male abino rats) and induced diabetes by intraperitoneal injection of Alloxan monohydrate. Rats with fasting blood glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL were considered diabetic and were sacrificed after 14, 28, and 42 day intervals. Tissue levels of malondialdehyde and glutathione levels (markers of oxidative stress), and serum MMP‐1 were measured. The expression patterns of p53, TGF‐β1were evaluated using Western blot and immunohistochemical methods. TIMP‐1 expression pattern was determined using RT‐PCR and immunohistochemical methods. Alloxan treatment induced histological features of renal damage (inflammation and fibrosis) and was associated with deterioration of the renal functions (elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatinin levels), hyperglycemia, and oxidative stresss (increased malondialdehyde and decreased glutathione levels). There was over‐expression of the TGF‐β1 protein (profibrogenic protein), p53 (proapoptotic protein), and alterations of extracellular matrix proteins (low level of serum MMP‐1 and over‐expression of TIMP‐1). Alterations of TGF‐β, p53, and extracellular matrix metalloproteinases contribute to the pathogenesis of Alloxan‐induced renal damage.
Good to great: TAVR tackles stroke risk
Authors: Pelberg Justin , Gray William A.
Published: February 2017

Key Points

In this small feasibility trial of a next‐generation device, the TriGuardHDH embolic protection device (EPD) appears to be safe and feasible during use in the majority of the TAVR subjects studied.

The question as to the use of EPD during TAVR, while intuitively appealing, is not further elucidated by the results of this small, uncontrolled study.

Future research on this (and other) device(s) would be expected to include, at a minimum, a randomized arm, more standardized imaging, and neurological assessment (including longer‐term) protocols, and less variability in valve types used.
Label‐Free Electrochemiluminescence Aptasensor for Highly Sensitive Detection of Acetylcholinesterase Based on Au‐Nanoparticle‐Functionalized g‐C3N4 Nanohybrid
Authors: Liu Qiao , Peng Yu‐Jiao , Xu Jin‐Chun , Ma Cheng , Li Lingling , Mao Chang‐Jie , Zhu Jun‐Jie
Published: February 2017

A feasible label‐free electrochemiluminescence (ECL) aptasensor that uses an Au‐nanoparticle‐functionalized g‐C3N4 nanohybrid (Au‐g‐C3N4 NH) as the luminophore was constructed for highly sensitive acetylcholinesterase (AChE) detection. The sensor was fabricated by successively modifying a glassy carbon electrode with Au‐g‐C3N4 NH and thiol‐modified AChE‐specific aptamers. In the presence of AChE, the ECL signal decreased significantly, because AChE could hydrolyze the substrate acetylthiocholine to generate acetic acid, which could react with the co‐reactant triethylamine (Et3N), leading to evident consumption of the co‐reactant. The ECL response of the aptasensor was linearly proportional to the concentration of AChE ranging from 0.1 pg/mL to 10 ng/mL, with a detection limit of 42.3 fg/mL (S/N=3). This novel ECL sensing strategy demonstrated a highly sensitive and selective method for AChE detection and was expected to possess potential applications in clinical diagnosis and biomedical technology.
Ge@CNFs Anchored on 3D Graphene Foam for Binder‐Free and High‐Efficiency Anodes in Li–Ion Batteries
Authors: Peng Chang Jian , Wang Lei , Li Qing Wei , Li Yuan Yuan , Huo Kaifu , Chu Paul K.
Published: February 2017

A spider‐like Ge@CNFs/3D graphene nanocomposite is prepared and used as a binder‐free, large‐capacity, high‐rate, and long‐life anode in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). The carbon nanofibers (CNFs) are radially grown on the Ge nanoparticles and then attached onto the 3D graphene foam to form Ge@CNFs/3D graphene. The CNFs buffer the internal stress induced by the volume change, alleviate Ge NP detachment or break down, and prevent aggregation of Ge during cycling. Moreover, the integrated structure of the 3D graphene facilitates fast electron transport and rapid diffusion of Li ions. The obtained spider‐like Ge@CNFs/3D graphene composite shows a capacity of 594 mA h g−1 (based on total mass of the electrode) after 1200 cycles at a current density of 0.8 A g−1. Furthermore, at 12.8 A g−1, the Ge@CNFs/3D graphene nanocomposite delivers a reversible capacity of 474 mA h g−1, corresponding to 74% capacity retention at 0.32 A g−1, rendering it promising for application in high‐performance LIBs.
Synthesis and Reduction of Uranium(V) Imido Complexes with Redox‐Active Substituents
Authors: Mullane Kimberly C. , Carroll Patrick J. , Schelter Eric J.
Published: February 2017

Organic azides that contain naphthyl functional groups were used to prepare uranium(V) imido complexes UV[=NC(2‐naph)Ph2][N(SiMe3)2]3 (2), UV[=NC(2‐naph)3][N(SiMe3)2]3 (3), and UV[=N(2‐naph)][N(SiMe3)2]3 (4), and their properties were compared with UV[=NCPh3][N(SiMe3)2]3 (1). The electronic structures of these compounds were investigated by solution electrochemistry studies, which revealed accessible UV/VI, UIV/V, and naphthalene0/naphthalene−1 couples. The uranium(V) naphthylimido complexes were reduced by potassium graphite to yield their uranium(IV) congeners K[UIV[=NC(2‐naph)Ph2][N(SiMe3)2]3] (2‐K), K[UIV[=NC(2‐naph)3][N(SiMe3)2]3] (3‐K), and K[UIV[=N(2‐naph)][N(SiMe3)2]3] (4‐K). The electronic structure of the dianionic compounds were investigated by DFT calculations, and this revealed that the second reduction was ligand‐based, which opens the possibility of accomplishing multi‐electron redox chemistry by using a tailored multiply‐bonded ligand.
Controlled Synthesis of Octahedral Platinum‐Based Mesocrystals by Oriented Aggregation
Authors: Zhong Ping , Liu Hongpo , Zhang Jie , Yin Yadong , Gao Chuanbo
Published: February 2017

Designed synthesis of noble metal mesocrystals is of great significance for a variety of applications. Here, the synthesis of octahedral Pt‐Ag alloy mesocrystals with precisely controlled morphology, size, and exposing facets, formed by oriented aggregation of their crystallites, is reported. The critical role of bromide was revealed in regulating the overall octahedral morphology of the Pt–Ag mesocrystals, by bridging the interactions between the capping agent and the Ag‐modified Pt crystallites. The size of the mesocrystals was precisely controlled in a broad range by tuning the number of the seeds, all retaining their octahedral morphology. Based on this understanding, octahedral Pt–Ag mesocrystals exposing {1 1 1} facets have been obtained in a highly controllable and reproducible manner. This material showed excellent electrocatalytic activity and stability in oxygen reduction reactions (ORR). It is hoped that the current synthesis provides new insights that pave the way to diverse faceted nanocrystals/mesocrystals for high‐performance catalytic and many other applications.
Structural Studies of Nicotinoids: Cotinine versus Nicotine
Authors: Uriarte Iciar , Pérez Cristóbal , Caballero‐Mancebo Elena , Basterretxea Francisco J. , Lesarri Alberto , Fernández José A. , Cocinero Emilio J.
Published: February 2017

Nicotinoids are agonists of the acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) and play important biochemical and pharmacological roles. Herein, we report on the structure and conformation of cotinine, and compare its molecular properties with the nicotine prototype, from which it only differs in the addition of a carbonyl group. This investigation included a theoretical survey of the effects of rotamerization of the pyridine moiety, the puckering of the pyrrolidinone ring and the internal rotation of the methyl group. The experimental work examined the rotational spectrum of the molecule in a supersonic expansion, using both broadband chirped‐pulse excitation techniques and cavity microwave spectrometers. Two conformers were observed for cotinine, and the fine and hyperfine structures arising from the two quadrupolar 14N nuclei and the methyl internal rotor were fully analyzed. The two observed conformers share the same twisted conformation of the five‐membered ring, but differ in a roughly 180° rotamerization around the C−C bond connecting the two rings. The energy barriers for the internal rotation of the methyl group in cotinine (4.55(4) and 4.64(3) kJ mol−1, respectively) are much lower than in nicotine (estimated in 16.5 kJ mol−1). The combination of different intramolecular electronic effects, hydrogen bonding and possible binding differences to receptor molecules arising from the carbonyl group could explain the lower affinity of cotinine for nAChRs.
Some Limitations of the Radioisotope Bone Scan in Patients With Metastatic Prostatic Cancer
Authors: Smith P.H. , Bono A. , da Silva F. Calais , Debruyne F. , Denis L. , Robinson P. , Sylvester R. , Armitage T. G. ,   EORTC Urological Group
Published: February 2017

This article reviews the serial bone scans of 149 of 327 patients entered into a randomized prospective trial comparing orchidectomy versus zoladex and flutamide in patients with metastatic prostatic cancer. Attention is drawn to the difficulty of evaluating the response rate and of the importance of tumor load in determining survival. The use of sequential bone scans once the diagnosis of metastatic disease has been confirmed is of questionable value as the scans are expensive and contribute little to the further management of the patient in the absence of symptoms requiring relief.
EORTC Protocol 30853: Orchidectomy Versus Zoladex Plus Flutamide in the Management of Metastatic Carcinoma of the Prostate
Authors: Robinson M. R. G. , Denis L. , Newling D. W. W. , Sylvester R. , De Pauw M.
Published: February 2017

The toxicity and side effects of combination therapy with zoladex and flutamide have not been excessive compared with those due to orchidectomy. Pain due to the flare phenomenon has not been observed with zoladex and flutamide. Treatment modification has been necessary in 12 of the 149 patients receiving the combination therapy, compared with one of 148 patients who had surgical castration. Only one patient had flutamide withdrawn because of diarrhea and only five patients had treatment modification because of liver toxicity.
Highly Stable Sr‐Free Cobaltite‐Based Perovskite Cathodes Directly Assembled on a Barrier‐Layer‐Free Y2O3‐ZrO2 Electrolyte of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Ai Na , Li Na , Rickard William D. A. , Cheng Yi , Chen Kongfa , Jiang San Ping
Published: February 2017

Direct assembly is a newly developed technique in which a cobaltite‐based perovskite (CBP) cathode can be directly applied to a barrier‐layer‐free Y2O3‐ZrO2 (YSZ) electrolyte with no high‐temperature pre‐sintering steps. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) based on directly assembled CBPs such as La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ show high performance initially but degrade rapidly under SOFC operation conditions at 750 °C owing to Sr segregation and accumulation at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Herein, the performance and interface of Sr‐free CBPs such as LaCoO3−δ (LC) and Sm0.95CoO3−δ (SmC) and their composite cathodes directly assembled on YSZ electrolyte was studied systematically. The LC electrode underwent performance degradation, most likely owing to cation demixing and accumulation of La on the YSZ electrolyte under polarization at 500 mA cm−2 and 750 °C. However, the performance and stability of LC electrodes could be substantially enhanced by the formation of LC‐gadolinium‐doped ceria (GDC) composite cathodes. Replacement of La by Sm increased the cell stability, and doping of 5 % Pd to form Sm0.95Co0.95Pd0.05O3−δ (SmCPd) significantly improved the electrode activity. An anode‐supported YSZ‐electrolyte cell with a directly assembled SmCPd‐GDC composite electrode exhibited a peak power density of 1.4 W cm−2 at 750 °C, and an excellent stability at 750 °C for over 240 h. The higher stability of SmC as compared to that of LC is most likely a result of the lower reactivity of SmC with YSZ. This study demonstrates the new opportunities in the design and development of intermediate‐temperature SOFCs based on the directly assembled high‐performance and durable Sr‐free CBP cathodes.
Minimal two‐transistor multifunction filter design
Authors: Maundy Brent J. , Elwakil Ahmed S. , Ozoguz Serdar , Yildiz Hacer A.
Published: February 2017

This paper presents a comprehensive method and analysis on the design of two‐transistor multi‐output filters where three possible functions are simultaneously available. Although two transistors are employed at its core, proper biasing does not require additional passive components. A total of thirteen valid second‐order filters are reported, and several of them are experimentally tested using discrete transistors as well as simulated using Spectre in a BiCMOS process. A fully differential realization of a MOS‐C band‐pass filter, based on one of the structures found, is designed and then used to realize a fourth‐order Chebyshev band‐pass filter. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dyadic flexibility mediates the relation between parent conflict and infants’ vagal reactivity during the Face‐to‐Face Still‐Face
Authors: Busuito Alex , Moore Ginger A.
Published: February 2017

Parent conflict is related to attenuated infant vagal reactivity, suggesting less effective regulation. Because infants’ self‐regulation develops in the context of coregulation, the current study examined a novel measure, flexibility, purported to reflect dyadic reorganization in response to contextual demands. Flexibility was expected to mediate the relation between greater conflict and lesser vagal reactivity during the reunion episode of the Face‐to‐Face Still‐Face (FFSF). Six‐month‐old infants’ and their mothers’ (N = 53) affective behaviors were observed during the FFSF and heart rate data were collected for infants. Flexibility was computed using state‐space analysis of dyadic behaviors and measured variability in and movement among dyadic states. Conflict was related to lesser infant vagal reactivity in the reunion through lower flexibility, suggesting less effective recovery from social stress. Flexibility may capture aspects of coregulation affected by environmental stress and may be one mechanism by which conflict contributes to developing vagal regulation.
Key factors that influence government policies and decision making about healthcare priorities: Lessons for the field of eating disorders
Authors: Whiteford Harvey , Weissman Ruth Striegel
Published: February 2017

Worldwide, the demand for healthcare exceeds what individuals and governments are able to afford. Priority setting is therefore inevitable, and mental health services have often been given low priority in the decision‐making process. Drawing on established economic criteria, and specifically the work of Philip Musgrove, key factors which influence government decision‐making about health priorities are reviewed. These factors include the size of the health burden, the availability of cost‐effective interventions to reduce the burden, whether private markets can provide the necessary treatment efficiently, whether there are “catastrophic costs” incurred in accessing treatment, whether negative externalities arise from not providing care, and if the “rule of rescue” applies. Beyond setting priorities for resource allocation, governments also become involved where there is a need for regulation to maintain quality in the delivery of healthcare. By providing field‐specific examples for each factor, we illustrate how advocates in the eating disorder field may use evidence to inform government policy about resource allocation and regulation in support of individuals with an eating disorder.
Relationship between the composition of fats and oils and their oxidative stability at different temperatures, determined using the Oxipres apparatus
Authors: Sabolová Monika , Johanidesová Aneta , Hasalíková Eva , Fišnar Jakub , Doležal Marek , Réblová Zuzana
Published: February 2017

The oxidative stability of 12 edible fats and oils was determined at three different temperatures (80, 100, and 120°C) using the Oxipres apparatus, and compared with their characteristics (peroxide value, fatty acid composition, antioxidant capacity determined by the DPPH method and tocopherol content). Using a simple correlation analysis, oleic acid content was found to correlate most strongly with the oxidative stability of the analysed fats and oils (p < 0.01). Highly reliable models (p < 0.00001), defined the induction period as a function of the oleic/linoleic acid ratio, antioxidant capacity and peroxide value, were obtained by multivariate linear regression analysis at each of the three temperatures. In additional experiment, the effect of temperature on the induction period of sunflower oil, pork lard and extra virgin olive oil was studied in detail within the temperature range of 80–130°C. It was found that the logarithm of the induction period decreased linearly with increasing temperature (p < 0.01). However, the induction period of the different fats and oils decreased with temperature to a varying degree, i.e., the ratio between the induction periods of these fats and oils was affected by the temperature.

Practical applications: Analyses to determine the oxidative stability of fats and oils are frequently required by food manufacturers, who use this information for the quality control of raw materials and, in particular, the selection of suitable fats or oils for food production. However, only a relatively small number of analytical laboratories are able to determine and interpret results obtained for the oxidative stability of fats and oils. On the other hand, determination of the composition of edible fats and oils (fatty acid composition, tocopherol content and other parameters) are routinely performed analyses. The ability to predict the oxidative stability of fats and oils from these commonly determined parameters can assist the selection and quality control of suitable raw materials for food manufacturers.

The oxidative stability of selected edible fats and oils is determined at different temperatures using the Oxipres apparatus, and compare with their characteristics. Highly reliable models defined the induction period as a function of the oleic/linoleic acid ratio, antioxidant capacity and peroxide value, are obtained by multivariate linear regression analysis at each of the three temperatures.
A new extension of classical molecular dynamics: An electron transfer algorithm
Authors: Raskovalov Anton
Published: February 2017

The molecular dynamics is one of the most widely used methods for the simulation of the properties corresponding to ionic motion. Unfortunately, classical molecular dynamics cannot be applied for electron transfer simulation. Suggested modification of the molecular dynamics allows performing the electron transfer from one particle to another during simulation runtime. All additional data structure and the corresponding algorithms are presented in this article. The method can be applied to the systems with pair Van der Waals and Coulomb interactions. Moreover, it may be extended for many‐bodied interatomic interactions. In addition, an algorithm of transference numbers calculation has been designed. This extension is not an independent method but it can be useful for simulating the systems with high concentration of electron donors and acceptors. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of di‐potassium and tri‐potassium EDTA evacuated tubes for routine haematological testing
Authors: Mehmood Rubaida , Muhammed Rabia Khushi , Hussain Sajjid , Sana Aniqa
Published: February 2017

Background

The influence of blood collection devices on laboratory tests is often overlooked. We have discussed here how blood collection materials and devices can alter haematological test results, with an emphasis on blood collection tube (BCT) additives. We have compared K2 & K3‐EDTA vacuum tubes of same manufacturer IMPROVACUTER ® for CBC analysis.

Methods

Blood was collected in both tubes simultaneously. Samples were analysed immediately after collection (<15 minutes) and after 4 hours by MEK−6318J/K Haematology Analyzer. Paired student's t‐test was applied for statistical analysis. Significant differences among results and biases were compared with current quality specifications.

Results

Significant differences were found in Neutrophyls (GR) and mean platelets volume (MPV) when compared. K2‐EDTA vs K3‐EDTA(1st time) after< 15 minutes of sample collection, for Monocytes counts (MO), MCV, MPV, and RDW when comparing K2‐EDTA (first time) vs K2‐EDTA(second time, after 4 hours); and for Monocytes counts (MO), MCV, MPV, PCT, and RDW when comparing K3‐EDTA(1st time) vs K3‐EDTA(2nd time) in order to check the stability and reproducibility of vacutainers.

Conclusions

This study assesses the use of K2& K3‐EDTA vacuum tubes whether or not they represent a bias in haematological testing (CBC). The use of K2‐EDTA and K3‐EDTA vacuum tubes represent a clinically relevant source of variation for MCV, MPV, RDW, and PCT.
Effect of a Handover Tool on Efficiency of Care and Mortality for Interhospital Transfers
Authors: Theobald Cecelia N. , Choma Neesha N. , Ehrenfeld Jesse M. , Russ Stephan , Kripalani Sunil
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Interhospital transfer is frequent, and transferred patients experience delays in the provision of care and higher mortality rates when compared to patients directly admitted. The interhospital handover is a key opportunity to improve care but has not been evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of a universal handover tool on timeliness of care, length of stay (LOS), and mortality among interhospital transfer patients.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS

Retrospective cohort of patients transferred to an academic medical center between July 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010 with interrupted time‐series design.

INTERVENTION

One‐page handover tool containing information critical for immediate patient care instituted hospital‐wide on July 1, 2010. The handover tool was completed by the transferring physician and available for review before patient arrival.

MEASUREMENTS

Time‐to‐admission order entry, LOS after transfer, in‐hospital mortality

RESULTS

There was no significant change in the time‐to‐admission order entry after implementation (47 minutes vs. 45 minutes, adjusted P = 0.94). There was a nonstatistically significant reduction in LOS after implementation (6.5 days vs. 5.8 days, adjusted P = 0.06). In‐hospital mortality for transfer patients declined significantly in the postintervention period from 12.0% to 8.9% (adjusted odds ratio, 0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.47 – 0.99, P = 0.04). There was no change in mortality for the concurrent control group.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of a standardized handover tool for interhospital transfer was feasible and may be associated with significant reductions in length of stay and mortality. Widespread adoption of similar tools may improve outcomes in this high‐risk population.
Discharge Handoff Communication and Pediatric Readmissions
Authors: Coller Ryan J. , Klitzner Thomas S. , Saenz Adrianna A. , Lerner Carlos F. , Alderette Lauren G. , Nelson Bergen B. , Chung Paul J.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Improvement in hospital transitional care has become a major national priority, although the impact on children's postdischarge outcomes is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize common handoff practices between hospital and primary care providers (PCPs), and test the hypothesis that common handoff practices would be associated with fewer unplanned readmissions.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS

This prospective cohort study enrolled randomly selected pediatric patients during an acute hospitalization at a tertiary children's hospital in 2012‐2014.

MEASUREMENTS

Primary care and patient data were abstracted from administrative, caregiver, and PCP questionnaires on admission through 30 days postdischarge. The primary outcome was 30‐day unplanned readmission to any hospital. Logistic regression assessed relationships between readmissions and 11 handoff communication practices.

RESULTS

We enrolled 701 children, from which 685 identified PCPs. Complete data were collected from 84% of PCPs. Communication practices varied widely—verbal handoffs occurred rarely (10.7%); PCP notification of admission occurred for 50.8%. Caregiver experience scores, using an adapted Care Transitions Measure‐3, were high but were unrelated to readmissions. Thirty‐day unplanned readmissions to any hospital were unrelated to most handoff practices. Having PCP follow‐up appointments scheduled prior to discharge was associated with more readmissions (adjusted odds ratio, 2.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.08‐4.46).

CONCLUSION

Despite their presumed value, common handoff practices between hospital providers and PCPs may not lead to reductions in postdischarge utilization for children. Addressing broader constructs like caregiver self‐efficacy or social determinants is likely necessary.
Biosynthesis and mass spectral fragmentation pathways of 13C and 15N labeled cytochalasin D produced by Xylaria arbuscula
Authors: Amaral L. S. , Fill T. P. , Santos L. F. A. , Rodrigues‐Filho E.
Published: February 2017

The fungus Xylaria arbuscula was isolated as an endophyte from Cupressus lusitanica and has shown to be a prominent producer of cytochalasins, mainly cytochalasins C, D and Q. Cytochalasins comprise an important class of fungal secondary metabolites that have aroused attention due to their uncommon molecular structures and pronounced biological activities.

Due to the few published studies on the ESI‐MS/MS fragmentation of this important class of secondary metabolites, in the first part of our work, we studied the cytochalasin D fragmentation pathways by using an ESI‐Q‐ToF mass spectrometer coupled with liquid chromatography. We verified that the main fragmentation routes were generated by hydrogen and McLafferty rearrangements which provided more ions than just the ones related to the losses of H2O and CO as reported in previous studies. We also confirmed the diagnostic ions at m/z 146 and 120 as direct precursor derived from phenylalanine. The present work also aimed the production of structurally diverse cytochalasins by varying the culture conditions used to grow the fungus X. arbuscula and further insights into the biosynthesis of cytochalasins. HPLC‐MS analysis revealed no significant changes in the metabolic profile of the microorganism with the supplementation of different nitrogen sources but indicated the ability of X. arbuscula to have access to inorganic and organic nitrogen, such as nitrate, ammonium and amino acids as a primary source of nitrogen. The administration of 2‐13C‐glycine showed the direct correlation of this amino acid catabolism and the biosynthesis of cytochalasin D by X. arbuscula, due to the incorporation of three labeled carbons in cytochalasin chemical structure. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of online heart‐cutting high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with linear ion trap mass spectrometry in the identification of impurities in vidarabine monophosphate
Authors: Wang Hang , Xu Tongzhou , Yuan Jiaojian
Published: February 2017

It is difficult to identify unknown impurities in nucleotide analogues by mass spectrometry because mass‐spectrometry‐incompatible mobile phases need to be used to separate the major ingredient from impurities. In this study, vidarabine monophosphate was selected, and unknown impurities were identified by online heart‐cutting two‐dimensional high‐performance liquid chromatography and linear ion trap mass spectrometry. The one‐dimensional reversed‐phase column was filled with a mobile phase containing nonvolatile salt. In two‐dimensional high‐performance liquid chromatography, we used an Acclaim Q1 column with volatile salt, and the detection wavelength was 260 nm. The mass spectrum was scanned in positive‐ and negative‐ion mode. The online heart‐cutting and online demineralization technique ensured that the mobile phase was compatible with mass spectrometry; seven impurities were identified by MS2 and MS3 fragments. The mass fragmentation patterns of these impurities were investigated. The two isomers were semiprepared and complemented by nuclear magnetic resonance. The results were further compared with those of normal‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. The online heart‐cutting two‐dimensional high‐performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry was superior in identifying more impurities. The method solves the problem of incompatibility between the mobile phase and mass spectrometry, so it is suitable for identifying unknown impurities. This method may also be used for investigating impurities in other nucleotide analogues.
Introducing Chicken Farming into Traditional Ruminant‐Grazing Dominated Production Systems for Promoting Ecological Restoration of Degraded Rangeland in Northern China
Authors: Su Hua , Liu Wei , Xu Hong , Yang Jingcheng , Su Benying , Zhang Xiujie , Wang Ruixia , Li Yonggeng
Published: February 2017

Free‐range chicken farming (CF) has been demonstrated to be effective in controlling locust plagues and restoring degraded vegetation in rangelands. However, the effects of CF on vegetation growth and soil conditions of rangeland ecosystems are not yet well known. We studied the effects of CF (treated by three stocking rates from low‐intensity to high‐intensity), livestock grazing (LG) and zero grazing (ZG) on vegetation characteristics and soil nutrient conditions in a degraded rangeland of northern China. CF significantly improved vegetation growth and soil quality compared with LG. The moderate CF2 with 333 birds per hectare enhanced the aboveground net primary production to 204·0 g m−2 yr−1 and vegetation cover to 88·8%, which is significantly higher than LG by 80·7% and 62·9%, respectively. Moreover, CF2 neutralized the pH value and raised soil organic matter, total N content, available N content and available P content to approximately 7·59 g kg−1, 0·34 g kg−1, 83·52 mg kg−1 and 3·4 mg kg−1, respectively. Compared with ZG, the positive impacts of CF on rangelands depended on the stocking rate, and better performance was achieved when lower stocking rates were used. We also analysed the economic benefits of CF through a cost–benefit analysis. A local family could obtain a net present value of at least $252·19 per hectare by engaging in CF, which was two‐fold higher than LG. Finally, we proposed a novel land‐use model that introduces CF into traditional LG dominated system and can be widely applied to promote socio‐ecological sustainable development in degraded rangelands. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ecological niche partitioning within a large predator guild in a nutrient‐limited estuary
Authors: Matich Philip , Ault Jerald S. , Boucek Ross E. , Bryan David R. , Gastrich Kirk R. , Harvey Christine L. , Heithaus Michael R. , Kiszka Jeremy J. , Paz Valeria , Rehage Jennifer S. , Rosenblatt Adam E.
Published: February 2017

Within oligotrophic ecosystems, resource limitations coupled with interspecific variation in morphology, physiology, and life history traits may lead to niche partitioning among species. How generalist predators partition resources and their mechanisms, however, remain unclear across many ecosystems. We quantified niche partitioning among upper trophic level coastal and estuarine species: American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis), bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas), common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), common snook (Centropomus undecimalis), and Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) in the Shark River Estuary of the Florida Coastal Everglades, USA using acoustic telemetry, stable isotope analysis, and visual surveys, combined with published diet and life history demographic information. Spatial and isotopic niche overlap occurred among most species, with variability in partitioning among interspecific interactions. However, seasonal variability in habitat use, movements patterns, and trophic interactions may promote coexistence within this resource‐limited estuary. Beyond guild‐level niche partitioning, predators within the Shark River Estuary also exhibit partitioning within species through individual specializations and divergent phenotypes, which may lead to intraspecific variability in niche overlap with other predators. Niche differentiation expressed across multiple organizational levels (i.e., populations and communities) coupled with behavioral plasticity among predators in oligotrophic ecosystems may promote high species diversity despite resource limitations, which may be important when species respond to natural and human‐driven environmental change.
Light and energy based therapeutics for genitourinary syndrome of menopause: Consensus and controversies
Authors: Tadir Yona , Gaspar Adrian , Lev‐Sagie Ahinoam , Alexiades Macrene , Alinsod Red , Bader Alex , Calligaro Alberto , Elias Jorge A. , Gambaciani Marco , Gaviria Jorge E. , Iglesia Cheryl B. , Selih‐Martinec Ksenija , Mwesigwa Patricia L. , Ogrinc Urska B. , Salvatore Stefano , Scollo Paolo , Zerbinati Nicola , Nelson John Stuart
Published: February 2017

Gynecologist and plastic surgeons pioneered the application of lasers in medicine and surgery almost 5 decades ago, initially used to treat cervical and vaginal pathologies. Ever since, energy‐based devices have been deployed to treat pelvic pathologies and improve fertility. Recent technological developments triggered an unprecedented wave of publications, assessing the efficacy of fractional laser, and radiofrequency on the vaginal wall in reversing natural aging processes. Studies have shown that a certain degree of thermal energy deposited on the vaginal wall stimulates proliferation of the glycogen‐enriched epithelium, neovascularization, and collagen formation in the lamina propria, and improves natural lubrication and control of urination. This review aimed to review such data and to guide future research. A unique assembly of experts from around the globe, compiled and edited this manuscript based on a thorough literature review and personal experience. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:137–159, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Falling Weight Impact Properties of Palm Shell Reinforced Palm Oil‐Based Polyurethane Bio‐Composite Sandwich
Authors: Cheng Teo Siew , Uy Lan Du Ngoc , Leng Teh Pei , Ngoc Tran Le Quan
Published: February 2017

The research focused on the usage of waste oil palm biomass such as empty fruit bunch fibre (EFB), dried palm shell (DPS) and palm kernel shell (PKS) to produce palm oil‐based polyurethane (POPU) composite foams, and applied them as sandwich cores. The sandwich cores were attached with jute/epoxy composite facesheets to fabricate high‐strength bio‐composite sandwiches. Sandwich cores composed of 32 wt% of POPU binder, 8 wt% of EFB and 60 wt% of palm shells. Three palm shell systems from different blend ratios of DPS and PKS such as 100:0 (100D), 50:50 (50D50P) and 0:100 (100P) were investigated. The toughness of bio‐sandwiches was investigated by using falling weight impact machine with the impact energy level of 29 J, 39 J, and 49 J. Results indicated that the sandwich using 50D50P hybrid palm shell core exhibited the highest peak load and lowest total damaged areas for all energies. Sandwich of 100P also expressed higher impact load and energy compared to those of sandwich 100D. There are no perforation damage on the bottom facesheet of 50D50P and 100P sandwiches at all energy levels except 100D sandwich at an energy of 49 J. In addition, no rebounding of the impactor was found for all sandwiches at all impact energies.
Comparison Study of Polyethylene and Polypropylene Addition on Asphalt With Lignin as Coupling Agent
Authors: Putra Wahyuaji N. , Syahwalia R. , Hendrasetyawan Bernhard E. , Giovanni Samuel C. , Chalid M.
Published: February 2017

Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) are already well‐known as a type of packaging materials and resulting on abundant amount of wastes. On the other hand, fabrication of papers always has lignin as one of the by‐products. These materials are potential to be combined with asphalt to create asphalt composite which will have better mechanical properties and higher water resistant compared with ordinary asphalt. This research focuses on preliminary observation on the effect of lignin, PE and PP addition in asphalt composite. Addition of 0.1% lignin into PP increases the penetration depth more significantly than PE. The increase of penetration depth is up to 350% in PP, and only 100% in PE. On the other hand, lignin addition into PP and PE have the same effect on the ductility. Lignin addition to both polymers increase the ductility up to 200%. In term of stability, PP‐Asphalt is better as it shows only 8% ductility reduction after 0.5% lignin addition, while PE‐Asphalt ductility is reduced up to 56.5%. The same trend also occured for hardness where PP‐Asphalt shows reduction of 14% and PE‐Asphalt is reduced by 32%.
Optimal seasonality of conception inferred from monthly marriage and birth time series in populations with no contraception
Authors: Bonneuil Noël , Fursa Elena
Published: February 2017

The seasonality of conception for populations of the past using no contraception has remained a terra incognita. First, the influence of that of marriages on the seasonality of births is highlighted, taking into account the different stages in women's reproductive lives and the presence of successive cohorts of unequal size. Second, the age‐dependent and time‐dependent monthly distribution of conception is disentangled from monthly marriage and birth time series by means of stochastic optimization under a Leslie recursion with time‐varying and age‐varying probability of conception. The application to Armenian‐Gregorians in the Don Army Territory (South Russia) from 1889 to 1912 reveals strong consistency between reconstructed conception, mean age at marriage, and fertility time series. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of a wide range of dietary nicotinamide riboside (NR) concentrations on metabolic flexibility and white adipose tissue (WAT) of mice fed a mildly obesogenic diet
Authors: Shi Wenbiao , Hegeman Maria A. , van Dartel Dorien A.M. , Tang Jing , Suarez Manuel , Swarts Hans , van der Hee Bart , Arola Lluis , Keijer Jaap
Published: February 2017

Scope

Metabolic flexibility is the ability to switch metabolism between carbohydrate oxidation (CHO) and fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and is a biomarker for metabolic health. The effect on metabolic health of nicotinamide riboside (NR) as an exclusive source of vitamin B3 is unknown and is examined here for a wide range of NR.

Design and methods

Nine‐week‐old male C57BL/6JRcc mice received a semi‐purified mildly obesogenic (40 en% fat) diet containing 0.14% L‐tryptophan and either 5, 15, 30, 180, or 900 mg NR per kg diet for 15 weeks. Body composition and metabolic parameters were analyzed. Metabolic flexibility was measured using indirect calorimetry. Gene expression in epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) was measured using qRT‐PCR .

Results

The maximum delta respiratory exchange ratio when switching from CHO to FAO (maxΔRERCHO1→FAO) and when switching from FAO to CHO (maxΔRERFAO→CHO2) were largest in 30 mg NR per kg diet (30NR). In eWAT, the gene expression of Pparγ, a master regulator of adipogenesis, and of Sod2 and Prdx3, two antioxidant genes, were significantly upregulated in 30NR compared to 5NR.

Conclusion

30NR is most beneficial for metabolic health, in terms of metabolic flexibility and eWAT gene expression, of mice on an obesogenic diet.
2BOB – extracting an H2BC and an HSQC‐type spectrum from the same data set, and H2OBC – a fast experiment delineating the protonated 13C backbone
Authors: Kupče Ēriks , Sørensen Ole W.
Published: February 2017

Two new related methods, 2BOB and H2OBC, for tracking out the backbone of protonated 13C nuclei are presented. 2BOB extracts an H2BC and an HSQC‐type spectrum from one and the same data set, and the combined information of these two spectra tracks out the molecular backbone. The faster method, H2OBC, typically requiring only a few minutes of instrument time, yields a single spectrum with distinct and different phases imposed on the H2BC and one‐bond peaks thus obviating the need to separate them in the absence of complicating spectral overlap. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A robust, general automatic phase correction algorithm for high‐resolution NMR data
Authors: Zorin Vadim , Bernstein Michael A. , Cobas Carlos
Published: February 2017

The trends towards rapid NMR data acquisition, automated NMR spectrum analysis, and data processing and analysis by more naïve users combine to place a higher burden on data processing software to automatically process these data. Downstream data analysis is compromised by poor processing, and the automated processing algorithms must therefore be robust and accurate. We describe a new algorithm for automatic phase correction of frequency‐domain, high‐resolution NMR spectra. We show this to be reliable for data derived from a wide variety of typical NMR usages. We therefore conclude that the method will have wide‐spread applicability and a positive impact on automated spectral processing and analysis. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A parametric model of the brain vascular system for estimation of the arterial input function (AIF) at the tissue level
Authors: Nejad‐Davarani Siamak P. , Bagher‐Ebadian Hassan , Ewing James R. , Noll Douglas C. , Mikkelsen Tom , Chopp Michael , Jiang Quan
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we introduce a novel model of the brain vascular system, which is developed based on laws of fluid dynamics and vascular morphology. This model is used to address dispersion and delay of the arterial input function (AIF) at different levels of the vascular structure and to estimate the local AIF in DCE images. We developed a method based on the simplex algorithm and Akaike information criterion to estimate the likelihood of the contrast agent concentration signal sampled in DCE images belonging to different layers of the vascular tree or being a combination of different signal levels from different nodes of this structure. To evaluate this method, we tested the method on simulated local AIF signals at different levels of this structure. Even down to a signal to noise ratio of 5.5 our method was able to accurately detect the branching level of the simulated signals. When two signals with the same power level were combined, our method was able to separate the base signals of the composite AIF at the 50% threshold. We applied this method to dynamic contrast enhanced computed tomography (DCE‐CT) data, and using the parameters estimated by our method we created an arrival time map of the brain. Our model corrected AIF can be used for solving the pharmacokinetic equations for more accurate estimation of vascular permeability parameters in DCE imaging studies.