bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Situating mortality: Quantifying crisis points and periods of stability
Authors: Sawchuk Lawrence A. , Tripp Lianne , Damouras Sotirios , DeBono Mark
Published: October 2013

A wide range of stressors can cause a dramatic and sudden rise in the death rate in populations, typically resulting in what is referred to as crisis mortality. Here we present a method to standardize the assessment of identifying moments of crises. A modification of the mortality Z‐score methodology which is combined with time series analysis was used to investigate mortality events over the course of nearly two centuries for two populations: Gibraltar and Malta. A benefit of this method is that it situates the yearly death rate within the prevailing mortality pattern, and by doing so allows the researcher to assess the relative impact of that event against the norm for the period under investigation. A series of threshold values were established to develop levels of mortality to distinguish moments of lower mortality than expected, background mortality, a crisis, and a catastrophe. Our findings suggested that within defined periods, a limited number of events constituted moments of excessive mortality in the range of a crisis or higher. These included epidemics (yellow fever and influenza in Gibraltar only, and cholera) and casualties associated with World War II. Episodes of lower than expected mortality were only detected (although not significant) in the 20th century in Malta, and at the micro level, the harvesting effect appears to have occurred following cholera epidemics in both locations and influenza in Gibraltar. The analysis demonstrates clearly that the impact of epidemics can be highly variable across time and populations. Am J Phys Anthropol 152:459–470, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oligomerization of Ethylene to α‐Olefins: Discovery and Development of the Shell Higher Olefin Process (SHOP)
Authors: Keim Wilhelm
Published: October 2013

Luck, talent, and hard work: Currently, over a million tons of α‐olefins are manufactured per annum using the Shell Higher Olefin Process (SHOP). The discovery of the process was the result of correct model conceptions and lucky coincidence. W. Keim, one of the main participants in the development of SHOP, gives a personal account of the events.
Surfactant–Thermal Method to Synthesize a Novel Two‐Dimensional Oxochalcogenide
Authors: Gao Junkuo , Tay Qiuling , Li Pei‐Zhou , Xiong Wei‐Wei , Zhao Yanli , Chen Zhong , Zhang Qichun
Published: October 2013

A new two‐dimensional (2D) oxosulfide, (N2H4)2Mn3Sb4S8(μ3‐OH)2 (1), has been successfully synthesized under surfactant–thermal conditions with hexadecyltributylphosphonium bromide as the surfactant. Compound 1 has a layered structure and contains a novel [Mn3(μ3‐OH)2]n chain along the b‐axis. The photocatalytic activity for compound 1 has been demonstrated under visible‐light irradiation and continuous H2 evolution was observed. Our results indicate that surfactant–thermal synthesis could be a promising method for growing novel crystalline oxochalcogenides with interesting structures and properties.
Preoperative indicators of the systemic inflammatory response in the treatment of patients with gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: McMillan D C , Horgan P G
Published: October 2013

Measuring this response in patients with cancer is worthwhile
Type II endoleak after endovascular aneurysm repair
Authors: Sidloff D A , Stather P W , Choke E , Bown M J , Sayers R D
Published: October 2013

Background

The aim was to assess the risk of rupture, and determine the benefits of intervention for the treatment of type II endoleak after endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR).

Methods

This systematic review was done according to PRISMA guidelines. Outcome data included incidence, spontaneous resolution, sac expansion, interventions, clinical success, and complications including conversion to open repair, and rupture.

Results

Thirty-two non-randomized retrospective studies were included, totalling 21 744 patients who underwent EVAR. There were 1515 type II endoleaks and 393 interventions. Type II endoleak was seen in 10·2 per cent of patients after EVAR; 35·4 per cent resolved spontaneously. Fourteen patients (0·9 per cent) with isolated type II endoleak had ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm; six of these did not have known aneurysm sac expansion. Of 393 interventions for type II endoleak, 28·5 per cent were unsuccessful. Translumbar embolization had a higher clinical success rate than transarterial embolization (81 versus 62·5 per cent respectively; P = 0·024) and fewer recurrent endoleaks were reported (19 versus 35·8 per cent; P = 0·036). Transarterial embolization also had a higher rate of complications (9·2 per cent versus none; P = 0·043).

Conclusion

Aortic aneurysm rupture after EVAR secondary to an isolated type II endoleak is rare (less than 1 per cent), but over a third occur in the absence of sac expansion. Translumbar embolization had a higher success rate with a lower risk of complications.
Randomized clinical trial of a simple pulmonary recruitment manoeuvre to reduce pain after laparoscopy
Authors: Khanna A , Sezen E , Barlow A , Rayt H , Finch J G
Published: October 2013

Background

Shoulder tip and abdominal pain following laparoscopic procedures are well recognized causes of postoperative morbidity. In this double-blind randomized clinical trial attempts were made to reduce postoperative pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery by implementing a simple intraoperative technique.

Methods

Patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy or laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair were randomized to receive either the current standard treatment (control group) or an intervention to remove residual carbon dioxide. In the intervention group, the pneumoperitoneum was removed at the end of the operation by placing the patient in the Trendelenburg position and utilizing a pulmonary recruitment manoeuvre consisting of two manual inflations to a maximum pressure of 60 cmH2O. In the control group, residual pneumoperitoneum was evacuated at the end of the procedure by passive decompression via the open operative ports.

Results

Seventy-six randomly assigned patients, 37 in the intervention group and 39 in the control group, were recruited. Overall postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the intervention group (P = 0·001). Median (interquartile range) pain scores were significantly lower in the intervention group compared with the control group at both 12 h (3·5 versus 5; P < 0·010) and 24 h (3 versus 4·5; P < 0·010).

Conclusion

Active evacuation of residual pneumoperitoneum following laparoscopic procedures, by means of two pulmonary recruitment manoeuvres in the Trendelenburg position, reduces postoperative pain significantly. This simple and safe technique can be implemented routinely after abdominal laparoscopy. Registration number: NCT01720433 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Systematic review and meta-analysis of continuous local anaesthetic wound infiltrationversusepidural analgesia for postoperative pain following abdominal surgery
Authors: Ventham N T , Hughes M , O'Neill S , Johns N , Brady R R , Wigmore S J
Published: October 2013

Background

Local anaesthetic wound infiltration techniques reduce opiate requirements and pain scores. Wound catheters have been introduced to increase the duration of action of local anaesthetic by continuous infusion. The aim was to compare these infiltration techniques with the current standard of epidural analgesia.

Methods

A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluating wound infiltration versus epidural analgesia in abdominal surgery was performed. The primary outcome was pain score at rest after 24 h on a numerical rating scale. Secondary outcomes were pain scores at rest at 48 h, and on movement at 24 and 48 h, with subgroup analysis according to incision type and administration regimen (continuous versus bolus), opiate requirements, nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, catheter-related complications and treatment failure.

Results

Nine RCTs with a total of 505 patients were included. No differences in pain scores at rest 24 h after surgery were detected between epidural and wound infiltration. There were no significant differences in pain score at rest after 48 h, or on movement at 24 or 48 h after surgery. Epidural analgesia demonstrated a non-significant a trend towards reduced pain scores on movement and reduced opiate requirements. There was a reduced incidence of urinary retention in the wound catheter group.

Conclusion

Within a heterogeneous group of RCTs, use of local anaesthetic wound infiltration was associated with pain scores comparable to those obtained with epidural analgesia. Further procedure-specific RCTs including broader measures of recovery are recommended to compare the overall efficacy of epidural and wound infiltration analgesic techniques.
Plannedversusunplanned portal vein resections during pancreaticoduodenectomy for adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kim P T W , Wei A C , Atenafu E G , Cavallucci D , Cleary S P , Moulton C-A , Greig P D , Gallinger S , Serra S , McGilvray I D
Published: October 2013

Background

The management of portal vein (PV) involvement by pancreatic adenocarcinoma during pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of unplanned and planned PV resections as part of PD.

Methods

An analysis of PD over 11 years was performed. Patients who had undergone PV resection (PV-PD) were identified, and categorized into those who had undergone planned or unplanned resection. Postoperative and oncological outcomes were compared.

Results

Of 249 patients who underwent PD for pancreatic adenocarcinoma, 66 (26·5 per cent) had PV-PD, including 27 (41 per cent) planned and 39 (59 per cent) unplanned PV resections. Twenty-five of 27 planned PV resections were circumferential PV-PD, whereas 25 of 39 unplanned PV resections were partial PV-PD. Planned PV resections were performed in slightly younger patients (mean(s.d.) 60(9) versus 65(10) years; P = 0·031), and associated with longer operating times (mean(s.d.) 602(131) versus 458(83) min; P < 0·001) and more major complications (26 versus 5 per cent; P = 0·026). Planned PV resections were associated with a lower rate of positive margins (4 versus 44 per cent; P < 0·001) despite being carried out for larger tumours (mean(s.d.) 3·9(1·4) versus 2·9(1·0) cm; P = 0·002). There was no difference in survival between the two groups (P = 0·998). On multivariable analysis, margin status was a significant predictor of survival.

Conclusion

Although planned PV resections for pancreatic adenocarcinoma were associated with higher rates of postoperative morbidity than unplanned resections, R0 resection rates were better.
Impact of bowel dysfunction on quality of life after sphincter-preserving resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Emmertsen K J , Laurberg S , Jess P , Madsen M R , Nielsen H J , Ovesen A U , Salomon S , Nielsen K Thygesen , Vilandt J
Published: October 2013

Background

Bowel dysfunction after sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer is a common complication, with the potential to affect quality of life (QoL) strongly. The aim of this study was to examine the extent of bowel dysfunction and impact on health-related QoL after curative sphincter-preserving resection for rectal cancer.

Methods

QoL was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 questionnaire, and bowel function using a validated questionnaire, including the recently developed low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score. Assessments were carried out at the time of diagnosis, and at 3 and 12 months after surgery.

Results

A total of 260 patients were included in the study. At 3 months, 58·0 per cent of patients had a LARS score of 30 or more (major LARS), which declined to 45·9 per cent at 12 months (P < 0·001). The risk of major LARS was significantly increased in patients who received neoadjuvant therapy (odds ratio 2·41, 95 per cent confidence interval 1·00 to 5·83), and after total versus partial mesorectal excision (odds ratio 2·81, 1·35 to 5·88). Global health status was closely associated with LARS, and significant differences in global health status, functional and symptom scales of QoL were found between patients without LARS and those with major LARS.

Conclusion

Bowel dysfunction is a major problem with an immense impact on QoL following sphincter-preserving resection. The risk of major LARS was significantly increased after neoadjuvant therapy and total mesorectal excision.
The effect of sacral nerve stimulation on distal colonic motility in patients with faecal incontinence (Br J Surg 2013; 100: 959–968)
Authors: Smart N
Published: October 2013

The Editors welcome topical correspondence from readers relating to articles published in the Journal. Responses should be sent electronically via the BJS website (www.bjs.co.uk). All letters will be reviewed and, if approved, appear on the website. A selection of these will be edited and published in the Journal. Letters must be no more than 250 words in length.
Pre‐dilatation of severely stenotic aortic valves using angioplasty balloons prior to balloon aortic valvuloplasty
Authors: Khawaja M.Z. , Thomas M. , Redwood S.
Published: October 2013

We present a technique that facilitates balloon aortic valvuloplasty in severely stenosed aortic valves through which valvuloplasty balloons are unable to pass using commonly available angioplasty balloons. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recent Advances in the Stabilization of Platinum Electrocatalysts for Fuel‐Cell Reactions
Authors: Cao Minna , Wu Dongshuang , Cao Rong
Published: October 2013

Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) feature high energy densities, low operating temperatures, and low environmental impact, which make them a promising technology for power applications. As a key component of PEMFCs, Pt‐based catalysts are still under widespread investigation and have shown exciting performance; however, to move towards their successful commercialization, focusing solely on their catalytic activity is not sufficient. Instead, more effort is required to improve their stability and to decrease costs. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of current research activities that have concentrated on how to stabilize the Pt‐based catalysts. We devote the most attention to the structure‐optimization of the Pt‐based catalysts and the development of advanced supports. The feasible strategies for structure optimization are subdivided into three groups: 1) dimension effects; 2) electronic and bifunctional effects; and 3) steric effects. Then, we discuss the techniques that have been developed for improving carbon black and for generating various types of carbon‐free supports and composites supports (e.g., graphite, carbon nanotubes, new‐type oxides and nitrides, and macromolecules). An outlook on the future trends and developments in this area is also provided at the end of the review.
para‐Substituted 2‐Phenyl‐3,4‐dihydroquinazolin‐4‐ones As Potent and Selective Tankyrase Inhibitors
Authors: Haikarainen Teemu , Koivunen Jarkko , Narwal Mohit , Venkannagari Harikanth , Obaji Ezeogo , Joensuu Päivi , Pihlajaniemi Taina , Lehtiö Lari
Published: October 2013

Human tankyrases are attractive drug targets, especially for the treatment of cancer. We identified a set of highly potent tankyrase inhibitors based on a 2‐phenyl‐3,4‐dihydroquinazolin‐4‐one scaffold. Substitutions at the para position of the scaffold′s phenyl group were evaluated as a strategy to increase potency and improve selectivity. The best compounds displayed single‐digit nanomolar potencies, and profiling against several human diphtheria‐toxin‐like ADP‐ribosyltransferases revealed that a subset of these compounds are highly selective tankyrase inhibitors. The compounds also effectively inhibit Wnt signaling in HEK293 cells. The binding mode of all inhibitors was studied by protein X‐ray crystallography. This allowed us to establish a structural basis for the development of highly potent and selective tankyrase inhibitors based on the 2‐phenyl‐3,4‐dihydroquinazolin‐4‐one scaffold and outline a rational approach to the modification of other inhibitor scaffolds that bind to the nicotinamide site of the catalytic domain.
A Short Asymmetric Synthesis of Octahydroindole Derivatives by Application of Catalytic C(sp3)–H Amination Reaction
Authors: Mazurais Marie , Lescot Camille , Retailleau Pascal , Dauban Philippe
Published: October 2013

The stereoselective synthesis of octahydroindole derivatives is reported according to 3–4‐step sequences. The strategy relies on our previously developed catalytic asymmetric C(sp3)–H amination reaction. Its application to cyclic enol triflates affords allylic amines in good yields and stereoselectivity. The C–H functionalization step, then, is followed by a Heck coupling reaction, a Mitsunobu reaction and a final intramolecular cycloaddition reaction thereby leading to the isolation of the expected heterocyclic compounds with an overall yield of up to 69 %. In addition, the chirality introduced in the intermolecular C(sp3)–H amination reaction allows controlling the configuration of the three other stereocenters created in the intramolecular cycloaddition reaction. A second sequence starts from benzocyclobutene and affords fused benzo‐octahydroindole derivatives over three steps.
On the Michael Addition of Water to α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones Using Amino Acids
Authors: Resch Verena , Seidler Christiane , Chen Bi‐Shuang , Degeling Ian , Hanefeld Ulf
Published: October 2013

The use of water as a nucleophile for Michael additions is still a challenge in organic chemistry. In this report we describe the use of amino acids as catalysts for the Michael addition of water to α,β‐unsaturated ketones. All 20 proteinogenic amino acids were screened and L‐lysine was identified as the best candidate. To obtain a better insight and to determine the minimum requirements of the catalyst, several structurally related compounds were tested. The reaction was characterized in terms of conditions and equilibrium.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Pyrrolizine‐Based Triheterocycles by Organocatalytic Cascade Aza‐Michael–Aldol Reactions
Authors: Lee Hyo‐Jun , Cho Chang‐Woo
Published: October 2013

New, chiral pyrrolizine‐based triheterocycles were obtained by the organocatalytic asymmetric cascade aza‐Michael–aldol reaction of α‐branched α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes with 2‐(trifluoroacetyl)pyrroles. High enantioselectivities (90–95 % ee) and excellent diastereoselectivities (dr up to >20:1) were achieved by employing this synthetic strategy. The highly functionalized, trifluoromethyl‐substituted cascade products have three consecutive stereogenic centers that include two chiral quaternary centers. The chemoselective stepwise Suzuki cross‐coupling reaction of the cascade products with two different arylboronic acids provided chiral pyrrolizine‐based triheterocycles that contain two distinct aryl substituents in good yields.
Statistical and analytical evaluation of groundwater quality in Al‐Rawdhatain field
Authors: Al‐Harbi Meshari , Al‐Ruwaih Fawzia M. , Alsulaili Abdalrahman
Published: October 2013

In the arid and semi‐arid area, groundwater is a crucial source of water for agricultural and drinking purposes. This study examines the physicochemical parameters of Al‐Rawdhatain groundwater wells (18 wells) between 1990 and 2009. For drinking water purposes, analysis shows that pH falls within the safe limits and Mg2+ and K+ values for all tested wells fall within WHO's (2004) permissible limits. In contrast, there were some exceedances in dissolved anions and cations, and almost all the samples tested exceeded the desirable limit of electrical conductivity (EC) and total dissolved solids (TDS), for drinking water purposes. The suitability of water for irrigation purposes has been assessed and analysis showed that 55–60% of the groundwater wells are suitable for agricultural purposes according to sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), Kelly's ratio (KR), sodium percentage (Na%), permeability index (PI), and total hardness (TH) indices. The correlation coefficient matrix between the hydrochemical parameters was carried out using Pearson's correlation. Moderate‐strong correlation was observed among the major elements, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl‐ and EC, which clearly identifies the main elements contributing to the groundwater salinity and their tendency to follow a similar trend. In this study, a factor model was developed and results showed that three major processes control the hydrochemistry of groundwater resources in the area: weathering processes, evaporation of minerals from sedimentary rocks, and salination. The Gibbs's diagrams support the factor analysis results. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 895–904, 2014
Removal of arsenic from water by combination of electro‐oxidation and polymer enhanced ultrafiltration
Authors: Arar Ozgur , Kabay Nalan , Sánchez Julio , Rivas Bernabé L. , Bryjak Marek , Peña Carlos
Published: October 2013

Water‐soluble poly[glycidyl methacrylate N‐methyl d‐glucamine], P(GMA‐NMG), was synthesized and purified by ultrafiltration membranes. It was subsequently used for arsenic removal by coupling electro‐oxidation (EO) and polymer‐enhanced ultrafiltration (PEU) processes. In the EO‐PEU combined process, P(GMA‐NMG) was first used as supporting electrolyte during the exhaustive electro‐oxidation of As(III) to As(V) and then it was used to remove As(V) from aqueous solution through PEU. At first stage, the complete EO of As(III) to As(V) was performed with a platinum reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC)‐modified electrode and the advancement of the electrolysis was monitored by analytical electrodes. After the oxidation of As(III) to As(V), the PEU was carried out by washing method using regenerate cellulose membrane and 1 bar of pressure. The effects of supporting electrolytes and pH on EO‐PEU combined process were investigated. The best results showed that by using P(GMA‐NMG) as supporting electrolyte during the complete electro‐oxidation of As(III) to As(V) followed by PEU separation, almost 80% of As(V) was removed at pH 10. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 918–924, 2014
Effect of suspended uncontaminated sediment on persistent organic pollutant release
Authors: Handlin Mzuri , Molina Andrew , James Nicole , McConville Megan , Dunnivant Frank
Published: October 2013

The transport and fate of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) during resuspension events were investigated using a batch mixing technique. This technique allowed for the determination of sorption and desorption kinetics under more realistic mixing conditions than those used in previous investigations. It was demonstrated that sorption follows second-order kinetics that are dependent on both POP concentration and the total suspended solids (TSS) of the system. Desorption shows a similar dependence. To further characterize pollutant release, the impact on maximum POP release of suspending uncontaminated sediment concomitantly with contaminated sediment was investigated, as this more accurately models real-world resuspension events. It was found that even relatively low ratios of uncontaminated to contaminated sediment (1:2) yield a maximum POP release nearly 10 times lower than for systems containing only contaminated sediment. Increasing the ratio of uncontaminated sediment further reduced maximum POP release. These results highlight an important limitation of laboratory desorption experiments and current risk-assessment models related to dredging operations; under typical field conditions, the impact of dredging on pollutant transport and fate may be greatly overpredicted. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:375–381. © 2013 SETAC
Predicting acute and chronic effects of wood preservative products in daphnia magna and pseudokirchneriella subcapitata based on the concept of concentration addition
Authors: Coors Anja , Weisbrod Barbara , Schoknecht Ute , Sacher Frank , Kehrer Anja
Published: October 2013

The current European legislation requires that combined effects of the active substances and any substance of concern contained in biocidal products are taken into account in environmental risk assessment. The hypothesis whether the consideration of active substances together with all formulation additives that are labeled as presenting an environmental hazard is sufficient for a reliable environmental risk assessment was tested in the present study by investigating 3 wood preservative products. Relevant single substances in the products, some of their generic mixtures, the biocidal products themselves, and aqueous eluates prepared from the products (representing potential environmental mixtures) were tested for effects on algal growth and Daphnia acute immobilization as well as reproduction. Predictions for the products and the eluates were based on the concept of concentration addition and were mostly found to provide reliable or at least protective estimates for the observed acute and chronic toxicity of the mixtures. The mixture toxicity considerations also indicated that the toxicity of each product was dominated by just 1 of the components, and that assessments based only on the dominating substance would be similarly protective as a full-mixture risk assessment. Yet, there remained uncertainty in some cases that could be related to the toxicity of transformation products, the impact of unidentified formulation additives, or synergistic interaction between active substances and formulation additives. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:382–393. © 2013 SETAC
Focal species of birds in European crops for higher tier pesticide risk assessment
Authors: Dietzen Christian , Edwards Peter J , Wolf Christian , Ludwigs Jan-Dieter , Luttik Robert
Published: October 2013

Focal species have been defined by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) as real species that represent others in a crop resulting from their potential higher level of exposure to pesticides. As such they are the most appropriate species for refining estimates of exposure further, through, for example, radio tracking and dietary studies. Plant protection product manufacturers collectively commissioned many studies in Europe, according to the EFSA guidelines, to identify focal species in different crops that may be used in risk assessments for spray applications of pesticides. Using frequency of occurrence in crops and risk-based criteria for exposure, all studies have been reviewed to identify if possible at least 1 focal species per feeding guild, per crop in the new registration zones for southern and central Europe. Some focal species repeatedly appeared across a wide range of arable or tree crops but not both, demonstrating broad adaptation to these 2 different crop structures. Many have widespread distributions, for example, 15 of the focal species have a distribution covering all agricultural regions of Europe (northern, central, and southern zones). Three species, corn bunting, serin, and tree sparrow, are restricted to the central and southern zones, whereas another 4 species, Sardinian and fan-tailed warbler, and crested and short-toed lark, are essentially restricted to the southern zone. The authors consider the focal species identified as suitable for risk assessment in Europe at the zonal level and for further refinement of exposure through studies, such as radio tracking or diet analysis, if necessary. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2014;10:247–259. © 2013 SETAC

Key Points

Focal species of birds have been defined for most major arable and tree crops in Europe applying EFSA guidelines Identified focal bird species are recommended for pesticide risk assessment and further evaluation of effects and exposure In arable crops, birds are generally represented by small omnivorous (lark or bunting) and small insectivorous (wagtail) species, while herbivorous (pigeon) or granivorous (finch) exposure scenarios are less relevant In tree crops, (orchards, vineyards) insectivorous ground-foraging (blackbird) and foliage-foraging insectivores (warbler or tit), omnivores (sparrow, bunting, finch) and occasionally granivorous finches were identified as focal species
About 1% of the breast and ovarian Spanish families testing negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2 are carriers of RAD51D pathogenic variants
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Enríquez Sara , Bonache Sandra , Ruíz de Garibay Gorka , Osorio Ana , Santamariña Marta , Ramón y Cajal Teresa , Esteban‐Cardeñosa Eva , Tenés Anna , Yanowsky Kira , Barroso Alicia , Montalban Gemma , Blanco Ana , Cornet Mònica , Gadea Neus , Infante Mar , Caldés Trinidad , Díaz‐Rubio Eduardo , Balmaña Judith , Lasa Adriana , Vega Ana , Benítez Javier , de la Hoya Miguel , Diez Orland
Published: October 2013

RAD51D mutations have been recently identified in breast (BC) and ovarian cancer (OC) families. Although an etiological role in OC appears to be present, the association of RAD51D mutations and BC risk is more unclear. We aimed to determine the prevalence of germline RAD51D mutations in Spanish BC/OC families negative for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations. We analyzed 842 index patients: 491 from BC/OC families, 171 BC families, 51 OC families and 129 patients without family history but with early‐onset BC or OC or metachronous BC and OC. Mutation detection was performed with high‐resolution melting, denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography or Sanger sequencing. Three mutations were found in four families with BC and OC cases (0.82%). Two were novel: c.1A>T (p.Met1?) and c.667+2_667+23del, leading to the exon 7 skipping and one previously described: c.674C>T (p.Arg232*). All were present in BC/OC families with only one OC. The c.667+2_667+23del cosegregated in the family with one early‐onset BC and two bilateral BC cases. We also identified the c.629C>T (p.Ala210Val) variant, which was predicted in silico to be potentially pathogenic. About 1% of the BC and OC Spanish families negative for BRCA1/BRCA2 are carriers of RAD51D mutations. The presence of several BC mutation carriers, albeit in the context of familial OC, suggests an increased risk for BC, which should be taken into account in the follow‐up and early detection measures. RAD51D testing should be considered in clinical setting for families with BC and OC, irrespective of the number of OC cases in the family.
Adrenomedullin is a therapeutic target in colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Liangjing , Gala Manish , Yamamoto Masayoshi , Pino Maria S. , Kikuchi Hirotoshi , Shue Daniel S. , Shirasawa Senji , Austin Thomas R. , Lynch Maureen P. , Rueda Bo R. , Zukerberg Lawrence R. , Chung Daniel C.
Published: October 2013

The KRAS oncogene influences angiogenesis, metastasis and chemoresistance in colorectal cancers (CRCs), and these processes are all enhanced in hypoxic conditions. To define functional activities of mutant KRAS in a hypoxic microenvironment, we first performed cDNA microarray experiments in isogenic DKs5 and DKO3 colon cancer cell lines that differ only by their expression of mutant KRAS (K‐rasD13). Adrenomedullin (ADM) was identified as one of the most significantly upregulated genes in DKs5 cells that express the KRAS oncogene in hypoxia (3.2‐fold, p = 1.47 × 10−5). Ectopic expression of mutant KRAS (K‐rasV12) in Caco‐2 cells (K‐rasWT) induced ADM, whereas selective knockdown of mutant KRAS alleles (K‐rasD13 or K‐rasV12) in HCT116, DLD1 and SW480 colon cancer cells suppressed the expression of ADM in hypoxia. Knockdown of ADM in colon tumor xenografts blocked angiogenesis and stimulated apoptosis, resulting in tumor suppression. Furthermore, ADM also regulated colon cancer cell invasion in vitro. Among 56 patients with CRC, significantly higher expression levels of ADM were observed in samples harboring a KRAS mutation. Collectively, ADM is a new target of oncogenic KRAS in the setting of hypoxia. This observation suggests that therapeutic targets may differ depending upon the specific tumor microenvironment.
Low‐level laser therapy (810 nm) protects primary cortical neurons against excitotoxicity in vitro
Authors: Huang Ying‐Ying , Nagata Kazuya , Tedford Clark E , Hamblin* Michael R.
Published: October 2013

Excitotoxicity describes a pathogenic process whereby death of neurons releases large amounts of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, which then proceeds to activate a set of glutamatergic receptors on neighboring neurons (glutamate, N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA), and kainate), opening ion channels leading to an influx of calcium ions producing mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death. Excitotoxicity contributes to brain damage after stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases, and is also involved in spinal cord injury. We tested whether low level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) at 810 nm could protect primary murine cultured cortical neurons against excitotoxicity in vitro produced by addition of glutamate, NMDA or kainate. Although the prevention of cell death was modest but significant, LLLT (3 J/cm2 delivered at 25 mW/cm2 over 2 min) gave highly significant benefits in increasing ATP, raising mitochondrial membrane potential, reducing intracellular calcium concentrations, reducing oxidative stress and reducing nitric oxide. The action of LLLT in abrogating excitotoxicity may play a role in explaining its beneficial effects in diverse central nervous system pathologies. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Incorporating the excluded solvent volume and surface charges for computing solvation free energy
Authors: Yang Pei‐Kun
Published: October 2013

Gauss's law or Poisson's equation is conventionally used to calculate solvation free energy. However, the near‐solute dielectric polarization from Gauss's law or Poisson's equation differs from that obtained from molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. To mimic the near‐solute dielectric polarization from MD simulations, the first‐shell water was treated as two layers of surface charges, the densities of which are proportional to the electric field at the solvent molecule that is modeled as a hard sphere. The intermediate water was treated as a bulk solvent. An equation describing the solvation free energy of ions using this solvent scheme was derived using the TIP3P water model. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
q‐Analogs of Packing Designs
Authors: Braun Michael , Reichelt Jan
Published: October 2013

A q‐packing design is a selection of k‐dimensional subspaces of such that each t‐dimensional subspace is contained in at most one element of the collection. A successful approach adopted from the Kramer–Mesner method of prescribing a group of automorphisms was applied by Kohnert and Kurz to construct some constant dimension codes with moderate parameters that arise by q‐packing designs. In this paper, we recall this approach and give a version of the Kramer–Mesner method breaking the condition that the whole q‐packing design must admit the prescribed group of automorphisms. Afterwards, we describe the basic idea of an algorithm to tackle the integer linear optimization problems representing the q‐packing design construction by means of a metaheuristic approach. Finally, we give some improvements on the size of q‐packing designs.
Thermochemical evolution of Mercury's interior
Authors: Tosi N. , Grott M. , Plesa A.‐C. , Breuer D.
Published: October 2013

A number of observations performed by the MESSENGER spacecraft can now be employed to better understand the evolution of Mercury's interior. Using recent constraints on interior structure, surface composition, volcanic and tectonic histories, we modeled the thermal and magmatic evolution of the planet. We ran a large set of Monte Carlo simulations based on one‐dimensional parametrized models, spanning a wide range of parameters. We complemented these simulations with selected calculations in 2‐D cylindrical and 3‐D spherical geometry, which confirmed the validity of the parametrized approach and allowed us to gain additional insight into the spatiotemporal evolution of mantle convection. Core radii of 1940 km, 2040 km, and 2140 km have been considered, and while in the first two cases several models satisfy the observational constraints, no admissible models were found for a radius of 2140 km. A typical thermal evolution scenario consists of an initial phase of mantle heating accompanied by planetary expansion and the production of a substantial amount of partial melt. The evolution subsequent to 2 Gyr is characterized by secular cooling that proceeds approximately at a constant rate and implies that planetary contraction should be ongoing today. Most of the models predict mantle convection to cease after 3–4 Gyr, indicating that Mercury may be no longer dynamically active. Finally, assuming the observed surface abundance of radiogenic elements to be representative for the entire crust, we determined bulk silicate concentrations of 35–62 ppb Th, 20–36 ppb U, and 290–515 ppm K, similar to those of other terrestrial planets.
In vivo proton MR spectroscopy in uterine abscesses
Authors: Takeuchi Mayumi , Matsuzaki Kenji , Harada Masafumi
Published: October 2013

It is important to make a rapid diagnosis to provide appropriate treatment, however, specific diagnosis of causative organisms of pelvic abscesses on conventional MR imaging is difficult. MR spectroscopy provides metabolic information noninvasively, and has the potential to characterize etiology of the abscesses. The presence of acetate (Ac) peak with or without succinate (Suc) peak may suggest anaerobic bacterial infection, whereas the absence of Ac and Suc peaks in the spectra may suggest aerobic infection. This report describes two cases of uterine pyogenic abscesses, which showed Ac and Suc peaks on in vivo MR spectroscopy.J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:955–957. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MRI appearances of ovarian serous borderline tumor: Pathological correlation
Authors: Zhao Shu Hui , Qiang Jin Wei , Zhang Guo Fu , Boyko Orest B. , Wang Shi Jia , Cai Song Qi , Wang Li
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To investigate the spectrum of MRI appearances of ovarian serous borderline tumor (SBT).

Materials and Methods

Following ethics approval, 31 patients with 51 histologically proven ovarian SBTs underwent preoperative MRI. Images were evaluated, by two observers for the location, shape, size, internal architecture, signal intensity, and extent or stage of the tumors. The MRI findings were correlated with pathological findings.

Results

Twenty of 31 patients (65%) demonstrated bilateral ovarian SBTs on MRI. Three MRI morphological patterns of ovarian SBT were identified: (i) Mainly cystic mass with multiple intracystic papillary projections from the wall and septations was observed in 24 (47%) tumors. (ii) Solid mass with hierarchical branching papillary and fibrous stalk architecture was observed in 8 (16%) tumors. The branching papillary projections were hyperintensity on T2WI, intermediate intense on DWI, and enhanced intensely after the administration of Gd‐DTPA. The internal branching fibrous stalks were hypointensity on T2WI and enhanced slightly. (iii) Mixed cystic‐solid mass was observed in 19 (37%) tumors. The cystic and solid components had the architecture and signal intensity similar to those of cystic and solid SBTs. Papillary projections were the common architecture of all three types of tumors.

Conclusion

On MRI, the ovarian SBT has some morphological distinguishing features. The solid papillary architecture with internal branching fibrous stalk is a somewhat more characteristic MRI appearance. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:151–156. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SERS‐based detection of barcoded gold nanoparticle assemblies from within animal tissue
Authors: Dey Priyanka , Olds William , Blakey Idriss , Thurecht Kristofer J. , Izake Emad L. , Fredericks Peter M.
Published: October 2013

We have explored the potential of deep Raman spectroscopy, specifically surface‐enhanced spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SESORS), for non‐invasive detection from within animal tissue, by employing SERS‐barcoded nanoparticle (NP) assemblies as the diagnostic agent. This concept has been experimentally verified in a clinically‐relevant backscattered Raman system with an excitation line of 785 nm under ex vivo conditions. We have shown that our SORS system, with a fixed offset of 2–3 mm, offered sensitive probing of injected 2‐quinolinethiol‐barcoded NP assemblies through animal tissue containing both protein and lipid. In comparison with that of non‐aggregated SERS‐barcoded gold NPs, we have demonstrated that the tailored SERS‐barcoded aggregated NP assemblies have significantly higher detection sensitivity. We report that these NP assemblies can be readily detected at depths of 7–8 mm from within animal proteinaceous tissue with high signal‐to‐noise ratio. In addition, they could also be detected from beneath 1–2 mm of animal tissue with high lipid content, which generally poses a challenge because of high absorption of lipids in the near‐infrared region. We have also shown that the signal intensity and signal‐to‐noise ratio at a particular depth is a function of the SERS tag concentration used and that our SORS system has a 2‐quinolinethiol detection limit of 10−6 M. Higher detection depths may possibly be obtained with optimization of the NP assemblies, along with improvements in the instrumentation. Such NP assemblies offer prospects for in vivo, non‐invasive detection of tumours along with scope for incorporation of drugs and their targeted and controlled release at tumour sites. These diagnostic agents combined with drug delivery systems could serve as a ‘theranostic agent’, an integration of diagnostics and therapeutics into a single platform. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Panel Cointegration Analysis of the Impact of Tourism on Economic Growth: Evidence from the Middle East Region
Authors: Saleh Ali Salman , Assaf A. George , Ihalanayake Ranjith , Lung Sidney
Published: October 2013

This paper examines the contribution of tourism industry to the GDP of three selected destinations in the Middle East region: Bahrain, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. We introduce a quadratic functional form and apply the advanced panel cointegration dynamic model with robust estimation to test our hypothesis. Our analysis is based on a comprehensive set of panel data of tourism receipts, education investment, foreign direct investment and fixed capital formation over the period of 1981–2008. The results show a long‐run relationship between tourism growth and GDP. We also show that tourism has a stronger impact on the economy than other related sectors. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growth factors expression in hyaluronic acid fat graft myringoplasty
Authors: Saliba Issam , Alzahrani Musaed , Zhu Tang , Chemtob Sylvain
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To investigate the effect of hyaluronic acid (HA) associated to fat graft on growth factors expression during the healing process of tympanic membrane (TM) perforations in guinea pigs using the hyaluronic acid fat graft myringoplasty (HAFGM) technique.

Study Design

Prospective randomized animal study.

Methods

Thirty guinea pigs were divided equally into three groups: group I (control group), group II (fat graft myringoplasty technique), and group III (HAFGM technique). TMs were perforated on day 1 and then sampled on days 0, 3, 8, and 21 and tested for the expression of: epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin‐like growth factor (IGF), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and keratinocyte growth factor (KGF). Five perforated TMs were taken at day 0 from group I to serve as a reference level.

Results

Group III showed an increased expression of all tested growth factors, except for KGF. EGF was highest in the early healing process; then IGF peaked at day 8 with statistically significant increase compared to groups I and II. TNF α in group III was significantly higher than group I throughout the study, with a peak level at day 21. VEGF was significantly higher in group III compared to group I at days 3 and 21. Neovascularization and scarless TM closure was obtained in group III, while spontaneous closure was associated with thin‐layered and scarred TM in group I.

Conclusions

HA association to fat graft in perforated TM increases the expression of the endogenous growth factors, suggesting that such an association is advantageous for healing.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 124:E224–E230, 2014
Effect of Non‐Rubber Components of NR on the Carbon Nanotube (CNT) Localization in SBR/NR Blends
Authors: Le Hai Hong , Parsekar Meenali , Ilisch Sybill , Henning Sven , Das Amit , Stöckelhuber Klaus‐Werner , Beiner Mario , Ho Chi Anh , Adhikari Rameshwar , Wießner Sven , Heinrich Gert , Radusch Hans‐Joachim
Published: October 2013

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are mixed into SBR/NR and SBR/IR blends using a wet mixing process. The phase specific localization of CNTs in rubber blends is predicted theoretically using surface energy data of blend components and determined experimentally by means of the wetting concept. Almost all CNTs are found to be localized in the SBR matrix of SBR/IR blends due to the better affinity of CNTs to SBR than to IR. In contrast, a high CNT loading localized in the NR phase of SBR/NR blends results from the presence of phospholipids in NR. Electrical and mechanical properties of the rubber blends depend strongly on CNT localization. A lower CNT loading in SBR matrix of SBR/NR blends imparts a better wet grip and lower rolling resistance to tire tread compounds.
Parkinson disease phenotype in Ashkenazi jews with and without LRRK2 G2019S mutations
Authors: Alcalay Roy N. , Mirelman Anat , Saunders‐Pullman Rachel , Tang Ming‐X , Mejia Santana Helen , Raymond Deborah , Roos Ernest , Orbe‐Reilly Martha , Gurevich Tanya , Bar Shira Anat , Gana Weisz Mali , Yasinovsky Kira , Zalis Maayan , Thaler Avner , Deik Andres , Barrett Matthew James , Cabassa Jose , Groves Mark , Hunt Ann L. , Lubarr Naomi , San Luciano Marta , Miravite Joan , Palmese Christina , Sachdev Rivka , Sarva Harini , Severt Lawrence , Shanker Vicki , Swan Matthew Carrington , Soto‐Valencia Jeannie , Johannes Brooke , Ortega Robert , Fahn Stanley , Cote Lucien , Waters Cheryl , Mazzoni Pietro , Ford Blair , Louis Elan , Levy Oren , Rosado Llency , Ruiz Diana , Dorovski Tsvyatko , Pauciulo Michael , Nichols William , Orr‐Urtreger Avi , Ozelius Laurie , Clark Lorraine , Giladi Nir , Bressman Susan , Marder Karen S.
Published: October 2013

The phenotype of Parkinson's disease (PD) in patients with and without leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) G2019S mutations reportedly is similar; however, large, uniformly evaluated series are lacking. The objective of this study was to characterize the clinical phenotype of Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) PD carriers of the LRRK2 G2019S mutation. We studied 553 AJ PD patients, including 65 patients who were previously reported, from three sites (two in New York and one in Tel‐Aviv). Glucocerebrosidase (GBA) mutation carriers were excluded. Evaluations included the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and the Non‐Motor Symptoms (NMS) questionnaire. Regression models were constructed to test the association between clinical and demographic features and LRRK2 status (outcome) in 488 newly recruited participants. LRRK2 G2019S carriers (n = 97) and non‐carriers (n = 391) were similar in age and age at onset of PD. Carriers had longer disease duration (8.6 years vs. 6.1 years; P < 0.001), were more likely to be women (51.5% vs. 37.9%; P = 0.015), and more often reported first symptoms in the lower extremities (40.0% vs. 19.2%; P < 0.001). In logistic models that were adjusted for age, disease duration, sex, education, and site, carriers were more likely to have lower extremity onset (P < 0.001), postural instability and gait difficulty (PIGD) (P = 0.043), and a persistent levodopa response for >5 years (P = 0.042). Performance on the UPDRS, MoCA, GDS, and NMS did not differ by mutation status. PD in AJ LRRK2 G2019S mutation carriers is similar to idiopathic PD but is characterized by more frequent lower extremity involvement at onset and PIGD without the associated cognitive impairment. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society