bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential uptake of and sensitivity to diphenhydramine in embryonic and larval zebrafish
Authors: Kristofco Lauren A. , Haddad Samuel P. , Chambliss C. Kevin , Brooks Bryan W.
Published: December 2017

The zebrafish fish embryo toxicity (FET) test is increasingly employed for alternative toxicity studies, yet our previous research identified increased sensitivity of zebrafish slightly older than embryos employed in FET methods (0–4 d postfertilization [dpf]). We identified rapid steady-state accumulation of diphenhydramine across zebrafish embryo and larval stages. However, significantly (p < 0.05) lower accumulation was observed at 48 h compared to 96 h in chorionated and dechorionated embryos (0–4 dpf), but not in zebrafish at 7 to 11 and 14 to 18 dpf. Increased uptake and toxicity of diphenhydramine was further observed in zebrafish at 7 to 11 and 14 to 18 dpf compared with 0–4 dpf embryos with chorion or dechorionated, which indicates that differential zebrafish sensitivity with age is associated with accumulation resulting from gill and other toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic changes during development. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1175–1181. © 2017 SETAC
Androgen deprivation therapy for androgen receptor‐positive advanced salivary duct carcinoma: A nationwide case series of 35 patients in The Netherlands
Authors: Boon Eline , van Boxtel Wim , Buter Jan , Baatenburg de Jong Robert J. , van Es Robert J. J. , Bel Miranda , Fiets Edward , Oosting Sjoukje F. , Slingerland Marije , Hoeben Ann , Tesselaar Margot E. T. , Jonker Marianne A. , Flucke Uta E. ,   Nationwide Network and Registry of Histopathology and Cytopathology (PALGA) Group, van der Graaf Winette T. A. , van Herpen Carla M. L.
Published: December 2017

Background

Salivary duct carcinoma, an aggressive subtype of salivary gland cancer, is mostly androgen receptor‐positive. Only limited data are available on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

Methods

Patients with advanced androgen receptor‐positive salivary duct carcinoma treated with first‐line ADT were retrospectively evaluated for clinical benefit (ie, partial response [PR] and stable disease, progression‐free survival [PFS] and overall survival [OS]). The OS was compared with patients with advanced salivary duct carcinoma who received best supportive care.

Results

Thirty‐four of 35 patients who were ADT‐treated were evaluable: 6 patients had a PR (18%) and 11 had stable disease (32%) leading to a clinical benefit ratio of 50%. The median PFS for the ADT‐treated patients was 4 months and the median duration of clinical benefit was 11 months. The median OS was 17 months versus 5 months in 43 patients receiving best supportive care (P = .02).

Conclusion

We recommend ADT in advanced androgen receptor‐positive salivary duct carcinoma given its response and clinical benefit. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2017
Use of hormone replacement therapy improves the prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer: A population‐based study in Sweden
Authors: Ji Jianguang , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: December 2017

The association between hormone therapy (estrogen, with or without progesterone) and colorectal cancer (CRC) has received considerable scientific interest but previous research has generated inconsistent results. We aimed to examine whether post‐diagnostic use of hormone therapy might protect against CRC mortality and all‐cause mortality. Women diagnosed with CRC between January 2007 and December 2012 were identified from the Swedish Cancer Registry and linked to the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register to retrieve hormone therapy users after CRC diagnosis. A total of 1,109 patients were diagnosed with CRC and used hormone therapy post‐CRC diagnosis. Time‐dependent Cox regression with 1‐year lag was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) of CRC mortality and all‐cause mortality associated with post‐diagnostic use of hormone therapy. Use of hormone therapy after CRC diagnosis was associated with a 26% risk reduction in CRC mortality (HR = 0.67, 95%CI 0.56–0.79) and a 30% risk reduction in all‐cause mortality (HR = 0.68, 95%CI 0.59–0.77). The risk reduction was even stronger if women also used hormone therapy before the diagnosis of CRC and for women with higher cumulative doses of hormone therapy. The risk reduction was largely consistent irrespective of CRC severity. Our data suggests that use of hormone therapy after CRC diagnosis is associated with a decreased risk of cancer‐related mortality and all‐cause mortality.
Optimization and comparison of CD4‐targeting lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles using different binding ligands
Authors: Cao Shijie , Jiang Yonghou , Levy Claire N. , Hughes Sean M. , Zhang Hangyu , Hladik Florian , Woodrow Kim A.
Published: December 2017

Monoclonal antibodies and peptides are conjugated to the surface of nanocarriers (NCs) for targeting purposes in numerous applications. However, targeting efficacy may vary with their specificity, affinity, or avidity when linked to NCs. The physicochemical properties of NCs may also affect targeting. We compared the targeting efficacy of the CD4 binding peptide BP4 and an anti‐CD4 monoclonal antibody (CD4 mAb) and its fragments, when conjugated to lipid‐coated poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic) acid nanoparticles (LCNPs). Negatively charged LCNPs with cholesteryl butyrate in the lipid layer (cbLCNPs) dramatically reduced nonspecific binding, leading to higher targeting specificity, compared to neutral or positively charged LCNPs with DOTAP (dtLCNP). cbLCNPs surface conjugated with a CD4 antibody (CD4‐cbLCNPs) or its fragments (fCD4‐cbLCNPs), but not BP4, showed high binding in vitro to the human T cell line 174xCEM, and preferential binding to CD3+ CD14‐CD8‐ cells from pigtail macaque peripheral blood mononuclear cells. CD4‐cbLCNPs showed 10‐fold higher binding specificity for CD4+ than CD8+ T cells, while fCD4‐cbLCNPs demonstrated the highest binding level overall, but only three‐fold higher binding specificity. This study demonstrates the importance of ζ‐potential on NC targeting and indicates that CD4 mAb and its fragments are the best candidates for delivery of therapeutic agents to CD4+ T cells. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1177–1188, 2018.
Osteogenic differentiation of human adipose derived stem cells on chemically crosslinked carbon nanomaterial coatings
Authors: Patel Sunny C. , Alam Owais , Sitharaman Balaji
Published: December 2017

Carbon nanomaterial coatings have been widely investigated for many biomedical applications including bone tissue engineering. Current methods to fabricate carbon nanomaterial coatings are limited by specific substrate requirements and the lack of strong bonds between the nanomaterials. Furthermore, few studies compare the effect of carbon nanoparticle architecture on stem cell differentiation and mineralization for osteogenic differentiation. Herein, we report a study comparing chemically crosslinked carbon nanotubes (of various diameters), graphene nanoplatelets, and graphene nanoribbons coatings for adipose derived stem cell differentiation toward an osteogenic lineage. We observed greatest autodeposition of calcium on graphene nanoribbon surfaces, while multiwalled carbon nanotubes of high diameter had the greatest influence on stem cell fate (by alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium deposition, and osteocalcin measurements). Studies indicate the cause for multiwalled carbon nanotube related stem cell differentiation, may be related to early timepoint toxicity as indicated by lactose dehydrogenase release. These results indicate suggestions for orthopedic tissue engineering applications for carbon nanomaterial coatings. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1189–1199, 2018.
Therapeutic plasma exchange for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura with refractory thrombocytopenia
Authors: Maloney Nolan , Martin Isabella , Szczepiorkowski Zbigniew M. , Dunbar Nancy M.
Published: December 2017

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is an acute, life‐threatening illness with disseminated platelet‐rich thromboses of small vessels that variably presents with the classic clinical “pentad” of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, fever, altered mental status, and acute kidney injury. Most cases are caused by an acquired autoantibody to ADAMTS13, a metalloproteinase that cleaves large von Willebrand Factor (vWF) multimers. The mainstay of treatment is daily therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), sometimes with adjunctive pharmacologic immunosuppression. TPE is generally continued until the platelet count is greater than 150 × 103/µL and the lactate dehydrogenase is near normal for 2‐3 consecutive days. Unfortunately, there is no clear guidance for when thrombocytopenia is refractory for a prolonged period of time. The following case describes such a scenario in which consecutive ADAMTS13 activity and inhibitor levels were used to guide the decision to stop treatment with TPE in a patient who failed to recover their platelet count.
Beyond cardiomyocyte loss: Role of Notch in cardiac aging
Authors: Rizzo Paola , Bollini Sveva , Bertero Edoardo , Ferrari Roberto , Ameri Pietro
Published: December 2017

The knowledge of the cellular events occurring in the aging heart has dramatically expanded in the last decade and is expected to further grow in years to come. It is now clear that impaired function and loss of cardiomyocytes are major features of cardiac aging, but other events are likewise important. In particular, accumulating experimental evidence highlights the importance of fibroblast and cardiac progenitor cell (CPC) dysfunction. The Notch pathway regulates cardiomyocyte, fibroblast, and CPC activity and, thus, may be critically involved in heart disease associated with advanced age, especially heart failure. In a translational perspective, thorough investigation of the Notch system in the aging myocardium may lead to the identification of molecular targets for novel therapies for age‐related cardiac disease.
Usefulness of hard X‐ray microscope using synchrotron radiation for the structure analysis of insects
Authors: Lee Jiwon , Lee Onseok
Published: December 2017

Three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology has the advantage of enabling specific visualization of creative ideas. Since synchrotron based images can provide high sensitivity and high resolution, they are a very useful technology to identify the 3D anatomy of microscale samples. X‐ray images using such synchrotron radiation are grafted to 3D printing technology. We can be obtained 3D images and modeling data of an ant using synchrotron radiation, and then, it were outputted with the 3D printer. A new way to identify the usefulness of the structure analysis is then found by visualizing the micro‐internal structure of diverse biomedical samples and creating an enlarged model. This study suggests methods of utilizing a 3D printed model produced through synchrotron radiation imaging in various fields such as bioengineering, medical, and education.
A statement by the Japan‐Korea expert pathologists for future clinicopathological and molecular analyses toward consensus building of intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct through several opinions at the present stage
Authors: Nakanuma Yasuni , Jang Kee‐Taek , Fukushima Noriyoshi , Furukawa Toru , Hong Seung‐Mo , Kim Haeryoung , Lee Kyung Bun , Zen Yoh , Jang Jin‐Young , Kubota Keiichi
Published: December 2017

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of bile duct (IPNB) was described as a preinvasive neoplastic lesion of the biliary tract in the 2010 World Health Organization (WHO) classification. Although a number of studies have since been conducted on IPNBs, controversy remains, particularly regarding the standardization of its definition. Meetings by Japanese and Korean expert pathologists were held twice to resolve the pathological diagnostic aspects of IPNB. Through round‐table discussions and histological reviews, we reached the common understanding that IPNBs diagnosed according to the criteria of WHO 2010 are characterized by intraductal predominant papillary or villous biliary neoplasms covering delicate fibrovascular stalks and are classified into two types pathologically. One type (type 1 IPNB) is histologically similar to intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of pancreas, and typically develops in the intrahepatic bile ducts, while the other (type 2 IPNB) has a more complex histological architecture with irregular papillary branching or with foci of solid‐tubular components and typically involves the extrahepatic bile ducts. This report states the diagnostic pathologic features of IPNB proposed by WHO 2010. Since currently, the concept of IPNB is still confusing, the proposed diagnostic pathologic features stated here will be of use for future clinicopathological and molecular analyses toward consensus building of IPNB.
Recent progress in [11C]carbon dioxide ([11C]CO2) and [11C]carbon monoxide ([11C]CO) chemistry
Authors: Taddei Carlotta , Gee Antony D.
Published: December 2017

[11C]Carbon dioxide ([11C]CO2) and [11C]carbon monoxide ([11C]CO) are 2 attractive precursors for labelling the carbonyl position (C═O) in a vast range of functionalised molecules (eg, ureas, amides, and carboxylic acids). The development of radiosynthetic methods to produce functionalised 11C‐labelled compounds is required to enhance the radiotracers available for positron emission tomography, molecular, and medical imaging applications. Following a brief summary of secondary 11C‐precursor production and uses, the review focuses on recent progress with direct 11C‐carboxylation routes with [11C]CO2 and 11C‐carbonylation with [11C]CO. Novel approaches to generate [11C]CO using CO‐releasing molecules (CO‐RMs), such as silacarboxylic acids and disilanes, applied to radiochemistry are described and compared with standard [11C]CO production methods. These innovative [11C]CO synthesis strategies represent efficient and reliable [11C]CO production processes, enabling the widespread use of [11C]CO chemistry within the wider radiochemistry community.
Being at the Heart of the Matter: Culturally Relevant Leadership Learning, Emotions, and Storytelling
Authors: Mahoney Antron D.
Published: December 2017

Grounded in feminist affective theory, the current article explores how emotions can be an effective tool for deploying the Culturally Relevant Leadership Learning (CRLL) model. The CRLL model proposes a reconceptualization of leadership education to challenge dominate norms and foster more inclusive and equitable leadership learning. Therefore, the author argues that “being” a culturally relevant leadership educator and learner consists of an embodied pedagogy in which storytelling can be employed to translate emotions into action and social change. The current article is framed using Marshall Ganz’s Public Narrative Model (i.e., Story of Self), thus constituting it as a theory‐in‐practice.
Basalt fibers functionalized with gold nanoparticles for in‐tube solid‐phase microextraction
Authors: Feng Juanjuan , Tian Yu , Wang Xiuqin , Luo Chuannan , Sun Min
Published: December 2017

Basalt fibers were functionalized with gold nanoparticles and characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. An in‐tube solid‐phase microextraction device was developed by packing the functionalized basalt fibers in a polyether ether ketone tube. The device was connected into high performance liquid chromatography equipment with a diode array detector to build online enrichment and analysis system. Eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were used as model analytes, important factors including sampling rate, sampling volume, organic solvent content in sample, and desorption time were investigated. Linear range (0.01–20 μg/L), detection limits (0.003–0.015 μg/L), and enrichment factors (130–1628) were given by the online analysis method. Relative standard deviations (n = 5) of extraction repeatability on one tube and tube‐to‐tube repeatability were less than 5.2 and 14.7%, respectively. The analysis method was applied to detect polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in environmental water samples, and relative recoveries ranged from 87 to 128%.
Normative Values for Tonsils in Pediatric Populations Based on Ultrasonography
Authors: Hong Hyun Sook , Lee Ji Ye , Jeong Sun Hye
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Pediatric tonsillar infections are common, particularly in adolescents. Ultrasonography (US) has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing peritonsillar abscesses and can diagnose tonsillitis by enlargement of the gland. In this study, we established normal tonsillar measurements and volumes according to age in pediatric populations.

Methods

Transcervical US of the peritonsillar region to measure tonsillar size and volume was performed in patients who had undergone neck US without throat symptoms from October 2016 to May 2017. Transverse and anteroposterior diameters, length, and volume were measured.

Results

In total, 161 patients (age range, 1 month–18 years) were enrolled in the study. The mean tonsillar volumes ± SD were 1.58 ± 1.26 (total), 0.30 ± 0.14 (<1 year), 1.27 ± 0.57 (1–<5 years), 2.06 ± 1.09 (5–<10 years), and 2.19 ± 1.48 (>10 years) cm3. Mean measurements for the sums of both tonsils for the transverse diameter, anteroposterior diameter, and length were 1.98 ± 0.61, 2.17 ± 0.66, and 2.28 ± 0.69 cm, respectively. Tonsillar size and volume increased according to age. Simplified models for volume estimation showed that anteroposterior diameters had the highest coefficients of determination (R2 = 0.71 and 0.74). Regression models for the tonsillar volume of 6 measurements in the multiple linear regression models showed an R2 of 0.89. Regression models for log(volume) showed an improved coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.96).

Conclusions

These normal tonsillar sizes on transcervical ultrasound in pediatric patients can be used to diagnose tonsillar lesions.
Updated methods for global locally interpolated estimation of alkalinity, pH, and nitrate
Authors: Carter B. R. , Feely R. A. , Williams N. L. , Dickson A. G. , Fong M. B. , Takeshita Y.
Published: December 2017

We have taken advantage of the release of version 2 of the Global Data Analysis Project data product (Olsen et al. ) to refine the locally interpolated alkalinity regression (LIAR) code for global estimation of total titration alkalinity of seawater (AT), and to extend the method to also produce estimates of nitrate (N) and in situ pH (total scale). The updated MATLAB software and methods are distributed as Supporting Information for this article and referred to as LIAR version 2 (LIARv2), locally interpolated nitrate regression (LINR), and locally interpolated pH regression (LIPHR). Collectively they are referred to as locally interpolated regressions (LIRs). Relative to LIARv1, LIARv2 has an 18% lower average AT estimate root mean squared error (RMSE), improved uncertainty estimates, and fewer regions in which the method has little or no available training data. LIARv2, LINR, and LIPHR produce estimates globally with skill that is comparable to or better than regional alternatives used in their respective regions. LIPHR pH estimates have an optional adjustment to account for ongoing ocean acidification. We have used the improved uncertainty estimates to develop LIR functionality that selects the lowest‐uncertainty estimate from among possible estimates. Current and future versions of LIR software will be available on GitHub at https://github.com/BRCScienceProducts/LIRs.
A Versatile Method to Prepare Protein Nanoclusters for Drug Delivery
Authors: Wang Yupeng , Yan Lesan , He Shasha , Zhou Dongfang , Cheng Yanxiang , Chen Xuesi , Jing Xiabin , Huang Yubin
Published: December 2017

Nanocarriers based on natural biomaterials such as peptides and proteins have shown great advantages in the field of nanomedicine. However, the complicated preparation process and possible denaturation of proteins may limit their further applications. Herein, a novel method is developed to prepare protein nanocluster drug delivery system based on the self‐aggregated property of proteins under the isoelectric point condition. The crosslinked protein nanoclusters, prepared by adding modified natural crosslinking agent polysaccharide, exhibit excellent stability and autofluorescent property in physiological conditions. Hemoglobin, a model protein, is chosen for preparation of drug‐loaded nanoclusters. The as‐prepared nanoclusters demonstrate a pH‐responsive drug release behavior and can successfully deliver drugs into cancer cells. Moreover, this approach can be extended to various proteins, exemplifying the universal applicability of our new preparation method for protein‐based nanoparticles.
An Alternating Skin–Core Structure in Melt Multi‐Injection‐Molded Polyethylene
Authors: Liu Xianhu , Lian Meng , Pan Yamin , Wang Xin , Zheng Guoqiang , Liu Chuntai , Schubert Dirk W. , Shen Changyu
Published: December 2017

Shish‐kebab, which is endowed with superior strength and modulus, provides the potential to fabricate self‐reinforced polymer products. However, the injection‐molded product usually exhibits a typical skin–core structure, and the shish‐kebab is only located in an extremely thin shear layer. Therefore, the controlling and tailoring of crystal structures in complex flow field to improve the mechanical properties of the injection‐molded sample are still a great challenge. Herein, for the first time, high‐density polyethylene sample with a novel macroscopic alternating skin–core structure is achieved using a melt multi‐injection molding technique. Results show that, with increasing the amount of melt injection, the layers of skin–core structure increase in the form of arithmetic progression, and therefore the tensile strength of the samples progressively increases due to an increase of shish‐kebab content. This study demonstrates a new approach to achieve multilayer homogeneous materials with excellent tensile strength via macroscopic structural design during the practical molding process.
A novel desmin (DES) indel mutation causes severe atypical cardiomyopathy in combination with atrioventricular block and skeletal myopathy
Authors: Schirmer Ilona , Dieding Mareike , Klauke Bärbel , Brodehl Andreas , Gaertner‐Rommel Anna , Walhorn Volker , Gummert Jan , Schulz Uwe , Paluszkiewicz Lech , Anselmetti Dario , Milting Hendrik
Published: December 2017

Background

DES mutations cause different cardiac and skeletal myopathies. Most of them are missense mutations.

Methods

Using a next‐generation sequencing cardiac 174 gene panel, we identified a novel heterozygous in‐frame indel mutation (DES‐c.493_520del28insGCGT, p.Q165_A174delinsAS) in a Caucasian patient with cardiomyopathy in combination with atrioventricular block and skeletal myopathy. This indel mutation is located in the coding region of the first exon. Family anamnesis revealed a history of sudden cardiac death. We performed cell transfection experiments and in vitro assembly experiments to prove the pathogenicity of this novel DES indel mutation.

Results

These experiments revealed a severe filament formation defect of mutant desmin supporting the pathogenicity. In addition, we labeled a skeletal muscle biopsy from the mutation carrier revealing cytoplasmic desmin positive protein aggregates. In summary, we identified and functionally characterized a pathogenic DES indel mutation causing cardiac and skeletal myopathy.

Conclusion

Our study has relevance for the clinical and genetic interpretation of further DES indel mutations causing cardiac or skeletal myopathies and might be helpful for risk stratification.
Using 2H labelling to improve the NMR detectability of pyridine and its derivatives by SABRE
Authors: Norcott Philip , Burns Michael J. , Rayner Peter J. , Mewis Ryan E. , Duckett Simon B.
Published: December 2017

By introducing a range of 2H labels into pyridine and the para‐substituted agents, methyl isonicotinate and isonicotinamide, we significantly improve their NMR detectability in conjunction with the signal amplification by reversible exchange process. We describe how the rates of T1 relaxation for the remaining 1H nuclei are increased and show how this leads to a concomitant increase in the level of 1H and 13C hyperpolarization that can ultimately be detected.
Is there an association between PAWP/WBP2NL sequence, expression, and distribution in sperm cells and fertilization failures in ICSI cycles?
Authors: Freour Thomas , Barragan Montserrat , Torra‐Massana Marc , Ferrer‐Vaquer Anna , Vassena Rita
Published: December 2017

Successful fertilization in mammals depends on the sperm's ability to initiate intracellular Ca2+ oscillations in the egg, a phenomenon that is elicited by Sperm‐oocyte activating factors (SOAFs), whose quantitative and/or qualitative defect might result in fertilization failure. One such proposed factor is Post‐acrosomal WW domain‐binding protein (PAWP/WBP2NL), although its ability to activate human oocytes has been questioned and its implication in human fertilization failure remains unknown. Here, we sought to determine if PAWP/WBP2NL expression and distribution in sperm cells associate with low/complete fertilization failure in males participating in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. This prospective study was conducted on eight couples referred for elective ICSI with either the woman's own (n = 4) or a donor eggs (n = 4). Eight sperm donor samples used in ICSI, which resulted in normal fertilization rates, were used as the control group. For each male patient and donor sperm, PAWP/WBP2NL sequence, protein expression, and cellular distribution were analyzed by PCR amplification‐sequencing, Western blot, and immunofluorescence, respectively. PAWP/WBP2NL was present in all samples, and no significant differences were detected between patients with fertilization failure and donors in sequence variants or mean protein expression, or in the proportion of PAWP/WBP2NL‐positive sperm. In conclusion, no clear association between PAWP/WBP2NL protein expression in sperm and fertilization outcome in ICSI were observed from this cohort.
Quality of care and patient‐reported outcomes in carpal tunnel syndrome: A prospective observational study
Authors: Nuckols Teryl K. , Conlon Craig , Robbins Michael , Dworsky Michael , Lai Julie , Roth Carol P. , Levitan Barbara , Seabury Seth , Seelam Rachana , Benner Douglas , Asch Steven M.
Published: December 2017

Introduction: Higher quality care for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) may be associated with better outcomes. Methods: This prospective observational study recruited adults diagnosed with CTS from 30 occupational health centers, evaluated physicians' adherence to recommended care processes, and assessed results of the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) and Short Form Health Survey version 2 (SF‐12v2) at recruitment and at 18 months. Results: Among 343 individuals, receiving better care (80th vs. 20th percentile for adherence) was associated with greater improvements in BCTQ Symptom Severity scores (−0.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.32 to −0.05), BCTQ Functional Status scores (−0.21, 95% CI −0.34 to −0.08), and SF12‐v2 Physical Component scores (1.75, 95% CI 0.33–3.16). Symptoms improved more when physicians assessed and managed activity, patients underwent necessary surgery, and employers adjusted job tasks. Discussion: Efforts should be made to ensure that patients with CTS receive essential care processes including necessary surgery and activity assessment and management. Muscle Nerve 57: 896–904, 2018
Upper bound limit analysis of uplift failure in pressurized sealed rock tunnels
Authors: Perazzelli P. , Anagnostou G.
Published: December 2017

The rock around tunnels used for gas storage is subject to high pressures, reaching 30 MPa in the case of compressed air energy storage. Uplift failure of the overlaying rock mass up to the surface represents the main hazard scenario in such cases. The present paper investigates this problem by using the upper bound theorem of limit analysis assuming a continuum rock mass model obeying the Mohr Coulomb failure criterion with tension cut‐off. Tools of the calculus of variations are used to assess the geometry of the failure surface. The effects of geometrical and geotechnical parameters on uplift pressure are analyzed systematically. Charts are then provided, which enable a quick estimation of the upper bound of uplift pressure across a wide range of geotechnical and geometrical conditions.
Health‐related fitness in very long‐term survivors of childhood cancer: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hartman Annelies , Pluijm Saskia M.F. , Wijnen Mark , Neggers Sebastian J.C.M.M. , Clemens Eva , Pieters Rob , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M.
Published: December 2017

Background

Impairment of health‐related physical fitness (HRPF) in survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia has been shown. However, evidence of impairment in survivors of other pediatric malignancies and possible risk factors is limited.

Participants and Methods

HRPF of 17 survivors of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML), 26 survivors of neuroblastoma (NBL), 28 survivors of Wilms tumor (WT) (median age 28.8 [18.8–62.6] years) after a median follow‐up time of 24.5 (6.5–43.6) years, and 74 healthy controls (median age 26.9 [17.9–61.7] years). Risk factors were investigated. Testing included submaximal cardiovascular endurance (6‐Minute Walk Test (6 MWT), flexibility, and muscle strength.

Results

Results are expressed as mean (standard error). Survivors scored significantly lower than controls on the 6 MWT (588 ± 6.1 m vs. controls 611 ± 6.0 m; P = 0.008), on side flexion of the trunk (20.1 ± 0.4 cm vs. controls 22.4 ±0.4 cm; P < 0.001), and on vertical jump (39.7 ± 0.8 cm vs. controls 43.8 ± 0.8 cm; P < 0.001). Survivors of AML had lower scores on the 6 MWT (563 ± 12.4 m) than survivors of NBL (585 ± 9.9 m) and survivors of WT (606 ± 9.6 m), P = 0.046. Being a survivor, higher body mass index (BMI) and no participation in sports were independently associated with lower scores on the 6 MWT.

Conclusion

Survivors of NBL, WT, and especially AML have impaired HRPF. Higher BMI and physical inactivity at adult age appeared prominent risk factors for impaired HRPF in these survivors.
Deficiency of ADA2 mimicking autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome in the absence of livedo reticularis and vasculitis
Authors: Alsultan Abdulrahman , Basher Enas , Alqanatish Jubran , Mohammed Reem , Alfadhel Majid
Published: December 2017

Adenosine deaminase‐2 (ADA2) deficiency (DADA2) is associated with early onset polyarteritis nodosa and vasculopathy. Classic presentation includes livedo reticularis, vasculitis, and stroke. However, the phenotype and disease severity are variable. We present a 5‐year‐old female who presented with features that mimicked autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) in the absence of classic features of DADA2. Exome sequencing identified a novel homozygous splicing variant in ADA2 c.882‐2A > G. Patient responded to anti‐ tumor necrosis factor medication and is in complete remission. Hematologists should be aware of various hematological presentations of DADA2, including ALPS‐like disorder, that might lack vasculitis and livedo reticularis to prevent delay in initiating optimal therapy.
The role of a secondary process in polymer crystallization: 4 − Polyethylene revisited
Authors: Hay James N
Published: December 2017

It is suggested that the overlap of primary and secondary crystallization is a cause of the repeated observation of non‐integer n values in polymer crystallization. The possibility that two concurrent crystallization processes occurring during the crystallization of polyethylene may account for anomalous fractional values of the Avrami exponent, of no theoretical significance, is reconsidered using data from the classical paper by Banks et al. (Polymer 4: 61 − 74 (1963)) on the kinetics of crystallization of polyethylene fractions which placed emphasis on evaluating the secondary crystallization stage. In general constant n values in excess of that expected for the crystallization mechanisms can readily be interpreted in terms of the additional crystallinity developed by the secondary process and these values increase commensurate with the rate constant of secondary crystallization. Constant n values close to but below n = 4.0 are interpreted as due to the presence of an induction period present in the presence of homogeneous nucleation. It is not possible to separate the effect of incorporating both an induction period, lowering the value of n, and secondary crystallization, raising the value of n, in the kinetic equation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Stimuli‐responsive amphiphilic PDMAEMA‐b‐PLMA copolymers and their cationic and zwitterionic analogs
Authors: Chrysostomou Varvara , Pispas Stergios
Published: December 2017

In this work, the synthesis and characterization of novel amphiphilic diblock copolymers of poly(2‐dimethylamino ethyl methacrylate)‐b‐poly(lauryl methacrylate), PDMAEMA‐b‐PLMA, using the reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization technique, are reported. The diblocks were successfully derivatized to cationic and zwitterionic block polyelectrolytes by quaternization and sulfobetainization of the PDMAEMA block, respectively. Furthermore, their molecular and physicochemical characterization was performed by using characterization techniques such as NMR and FTIR, size exclusion chromatography, light scattering techniques, and transmission electron microscopy. The structure of the diblock micelles, their behavior, and properties in aqueous solution were investigated under the effect of pH, temperature, and ionic strength, as PDMAEMA and its derivatives are stimuli‐responsive polymers and exhibit responses to variations of at least one of these physicochemical parameters. These new families of stimuli‐responsive block copolymers respond to changes of their environment giving interesting nanostructures, behavioral motifs, and properties, rendering them useful as nanocarriers for drug delivery and gene therapy. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 598–610
The role of cognitive bias in relation to persistent distress among women diagnosed with breast cancer
Authors: Lam Wendy W.T. , Ng Danielle , Wong Sarah , Lee Tatia M.C. , Kwong Ava , Fielding Richard
Published: December 2017

Objective

To examine if bias in attention to and interpretation of cancer‐related stimuli differentiates women with persistent psychological distress from those with low/transient distress following breast cancer.

Methods

One‐hundred forty women classified in a prior longitudinal study as having low (n = 73) or persistent high (n = 67) distress completed 2 modified dot‐probe tasks assessing attention bias and an ambiguous cues task assessing interpretation bias toward cancer‐related vs neutral information. Psychological distress was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale. Four‐way repeated analysis of variance was adopted.

Results

Participants with persistent high distress from the original study who continued to report high Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale scores (≥8) on recruitment into the present study comprised the persistent distress group (ie, 31 reporting high anxiety and 30 reporting high depression scores). Persistent distress and low distress groups did not differ in attentional bias toward negative‐stimuli or cancer‐related information, but a significant time‐course effect in attentional bias toward negative‐stimuli or cancer‐related information was observed, with women in the persistent distress group showing a significant bias away from negative‐stimuli or cancer‐related information under supraliminal conditions. There was a borderline difference in interpretation bias scores between low anxiety and chronic anxiety groups (P = .065), with correlation suggesting a significant positive association (r = 0.20, P = .019).

Conclusion

Women with persistent distress may adopt avoidance strategies to cope with breast cancer. Moreover, women reporting persistent anxiety may have a tendency to negatively interpret ambiguous information, leading to illness preoccupation. These findings offer critical insight for clinicians to develop tailored interventions to help women with persistent psychological distress.
Contribution of buried distal amino acid residues in horse liver alcohol dehydrogenase to structure and catalysis
Authors: Shanmuganatham Karthik K. , Wallace Rachel S. , Ting‐I Lee Ann , Plapp Bryce V.
Published: December 2017

The dynamics of enzyme catalysis range from the slow time scale (∼ms) for substrate binding and conformational changes to the fast time (∼ps) scale for reorganization of substrates in the chemical step. The contribution of global dynamics to catalysis by alcohol dehydrogenase was tested by substituting five different, conserved amino acid residues that are distal from the active site and located in the hinge region for the conformational change or in hydrophobic clusters. X‐ray crystallography shows that the structures for the G173A, V197I, I220 (V, L, or F), V222I, and F322L enzymes complexed with NAD+and an analogue of benzyl alcohol are almost identical, except for small perturbations at the sites of substitution. The enzymes have very similar kinetic constants for the oxidation of benzyl alcohol and reduction of benzaldehyde as compared to the wild‐type enzyme, and the rates of conformational changes are not altered. Less conservative substitutions of these amino acid residues, such as G173(V, E, K, or R), V197(G, S, or T), I220(G, S, T, or N), and V222(G, S, or T) produced unstable or poorly expressed proteins, indicating that the residues are critical for global stability. The enzyme scaffold accommodates conservative substitutions of distal residues, and there is no evidence that fast, global dynamics significantly affect the rate constants for hydride transfers. In contrast, other studies show that proximal residues significantly participate in catalysis.
Nuclear magnetic resonance‐based determination of dioxygen binding sites in protein cavities
Authors: Kitahara Ryo , Sakuraba Shun , Kameda Tomoshi , Okuda Sanshiro , Xue Mengjun , Mulder Frans A.A.
Published: December 2017

The location and ligand accessibility of internal cavities in cysteine‐free wild‐type T4 lysozyme was investigated using O2 gas‐pressure NMR spectroscopy and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Upon increasing the concentration of dissolved O2 in solvent to 8.9 mM, O2‐induced paramagnetic relaxation enhancements (PREs) to the backbone amide and side chain methyl protons were observed, specifically around two cavities in the C‐terminal domain. To determine the number of O2 binding sites and their atomic coordinates from the 1/r6 distance dependence of the PREs, we established an analytical procedure using Akaike's Information Criterion, in combination with a grid‐search. Two O2‐accessible sites were identified in internal cavities: One site was consistent with the xenon‐binding site in the protein in crystal, and the other site was established to be a novel ligand‐binding site. MD simulations performed at 10 and 100 mM O2 revealed dioxygen ingress and egress as well as rotational and translational motions of O2 in the cavities. It is therefore suggested that conformational fluctuations within the ground‐state ensemble transiently develop channels for O2 association with the internal protein cavities.
The Y137H mutation in the cytochrome P450 FgCYP51B protein confers reduced sensitivity to tebuconazole in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Qian Hengwei , Du Juan , Chi Mengyu , Sun Xiaomei , Liang Wenxing , Huang Jinguang , Li Baodu
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Fusarium graminearum is the main pathogen of Fusarium head blight (FHB), a worldwide plant disease and one of the most significant wheat diseases in China. Demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides, such as tebuconazole (TEC), are widely used to control FHB, but long‐term use leads to low efficacy against FHB. Earlier studies showed that DMI resistance is associated with the fungal sterol 14α‐demethylase (cytochrome P450 CYP51) gene, and that point mutations in the CYP51 gene are the primary mechanism of resistance to DMI fungicides. The aims of this study were to clarify the molecular mechanisms of resistance to TEC and identify the binding sites on the FgCYP51B protein.

RESULTS

Site‐directed mutagenesis was used to change the FgCYP51B gene of wild‐type strain PH‐1 from tyrosine to histidine at residue 137 (Y137H) to generate a mutant transformant, which was confirmed to be resistant to TEC compared with the parental strains. A three‐dimensional FgCYP51B model was constructed, and molecular docking simulation studies were conducted to identify the optimum binding mode with TEC. The wild‐type FgCYP51B protein displayed stronger affinity to TEC than that of the mutated FgCYP51B in the molecular docking analysis.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that a Tyr137 amino acid mutation in the cytochrome P450 FgCYP51B could lead to resistance to TEC and that Y137 forms part of the tebuconazole‐binding pocket. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Optical Anisotropy of SrTiO3(110) for Different Surface Terminations
Authors: Fleischer Karsten , Kim Sangsoo , Walls Brian , Zhussupbekov Kuanysh , Shvets Igor V.
Published: December 2017

In this work we investigate the SrTiO3(110) surface by reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy (RAS) at varying preparation steps including ex situ wet etching, high temperature oxygen annealing, as well as in situ vacuum annealing. Different surface terminations show distinctly different RAS spectra which are correlated to an altered surface stoichiometry measured by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and an altered valence band structure measured by UV‐photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) in cases of conductive samples. We link the changes in the observed RAS spectra to various surface reconstructions, with particular focus of the signature of (3 × 1) and (1 × 4) reconstructed surfaces, and a metallic surface state observed in vacuum annealed SrTiO3.
Morphology and Work Function of In, Ag, Mg, and Au Nano‐Islands Grown on AlN(0001) Surface
Authors: Khoussa Hassan , Baris Bulent , Alchaar Mohanad , Chaumeton Florian , Ghamnia Mostefa , Gauthier Sébastien , Martrou David
Published: December 2017

The study revealed that the nature of the AlN (0001) surface could play a fundamental role in the growth mode of metals. In the case of silver (Ag) deposited on the AlN(0001) (2×2)‐Nad reconstructed surface, the growth mode was Volmer–Weber. Deposition of indium (In) on a contaminated AlN(0001) surface leads to the formation of a wetting layer, followed by a 3D growth mode. For magnesium (Mg), a wetting layer was observed on the clean and contaminated surface followed by a 2D growth mode. Finally, the Au case was the most interesting since on the contaminated surface and the (2×2)‐Nad reconstructed surface, the growth mode was 3D and 2D, respectively, without the formation of a wetting layer. The Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) study allowed to get qualitative and quantitative information about the work function of cluster and islands observed for the different metals on the AlN(0001) surface.
Decision theory‐based detection of atmospheric natural hazards from satellite imagery using the example of volcanic ash
Authors: Western L. M. , Rougier J. , Watson I. M.
Published: December 2017

Atmospheric natural hazards pose a risk to people, aircraft and infrastructure. Automated algorithms can detect these hazards from satellite imagery so that the relevant advice can be issued. The transparency and adaptability of these automated algorithms is important to cater to the needs of the end user, who should be able to readily interpret the hazard warning. This means avoiding heuristic techniques. Decision theory is a statistical tool that transparently considers the risk of false positives and negatives when detecting the hazard. By assigning losses to incorrect actions, ownership of the hazard warning is shared between the scientists and risk managers. These losses are readily adaptable depending on the perceived threat of the hazard. This study demonstrates how decision theory can be applied to the detection of atmospheric natural hazards using the example of volcanic ash during an ongoing eruption. The only observations are the difference in brightness temperature between two channels on the SEVIRI sensor. We apply the method to two volcanic eruptions: the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland, and the 2011 eruption of Puyehue‐Cordón Caulle, Chile. The simple probabilistic method appears to work well and is able to distinguish volcanic ash from desert dust, which is a common false positive for volcanic ash. As is made clear, decision theory is a tool for decision support, providing transparency and adaptability, but it still requires careful input from scientists and risk managers. Effectively it provides a space where these groups of experts can meet and convert their shared understanding of a hazard into a choice of action.
PRECIS‐projected increases in temperature and precipitation over Canada
Authors: Zhou Xiong , Huang Guohe , Baetz Brian W. , Wang Xiuquan , Cheng Guanhui
Published: December 2017

In this study, high‐resolution projections of temperature and precipitation changes over Canada were developed through the Providing Regional Climates for Impact Studies (PRECIS) model under Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs). In detail, the PRECIS model was employed to conduct simulations for the historical period over the entirety of Canada, driven by the boundary conditions from both ERA‐Interim (1979–2011) and HadGEM2‐ES (1959–2005). The performance of PRECIS simulations in reproducing historical climatology of Canada was then validated through comparison with observed temperature and precipitation over the baseline period (1986–2005). The boundary conditions from HadGEM2‐ES under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 was used to drive PRECIS for simulating climatic variables over Canada for the period of 2006–2099. Future climate projections of temperature and precipitation as well as their extreme indices over two time‐slices (i.e. 2046–2065 and 2076–2095) were extracted and analysed. The results could help investigate how the regional climate over Canada will respond to global warming as well as the spatio‐temporal characteristics of plausible climate changes in the Canadian context. The validation results demonstrate that the PRECIS model is effective in reproducing the historical climatological patterns of annual mean temperature and total precipitation across Canada. Projections of temperature and precipitation for the two future periods indicate that there will be an apparent increasing pattern over Canada. The projected changes derived in this study can provide decision‐makers with valuable information to evaluate possible impacts on economic, social and environmental sectors at regional and local scales.
Quantum mechanical DFT elucidation of CO2 catalytic conversion mechanisms: Three examples
Authors: Mazzone Gloria , Marino Tiziana , Piazzetta Paolo , Ponte Fortuna , Prejanò Mario , Sicilia Emilia , Toscano Marirosa
Published: December 2017

Computational modeling has a key role in the field of catalysis. Involved intermediates, as reactions should be fast, are difficult to intercept and computational investigations represent a good tool for the elucidation of reaction mechanisms, whose knowledge can be indispensable for the optimization of existing catalysts and the design of new ones. In this perspective, three illustrative examples, from our recent work in the field of homogeneous and enzymatic catalysis, of catalytic processes addressed to convert carbon dioxide into high added value compounds are discussed. For all three systems, quantum mechanical density functional theory calculations have been carried out to describe the corresponding potential energy surfaces, although different computational procedures have been used according to the size of the studied systems. The reported outcomes show as quantum chemical methodologies allow to examine different mechanistic proposals, at structural and energetic levels, discarding unviable mechanistic alternatives, and proposing pathways consistent with available experimental data.