bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcatheter closure of a sinus venosus atrial septal defect using 3D printing and image fusion guidance
Authors: Thakkar Akanksha N. , Chinnadurai Ponraj , Breinholt John P. , Lin C. Huie
Published: June 2018

A 63‐year‐old man with cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and coagulopathy was diagnosed with a sinus venosus atrial septal defect (ASD) and partial anomalous pulmonary venous return (PAPVR) of the right upper pulmonary vein (RUPV). Transcatheter repair by positioning a stent graft in the superior vena cava was planned. Based on three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction of gated cardiac CTA, a 28 mm × 7 cm Endurant II® aortic extension stent graft (Medtronic, MN) was chosen. A 3D model printed from the CTA was used to simulate device deployment, demonstrating successful exclusion of the sinus venosus ASD with return of the RUPV to the left atrium (LA). Post simulation, the 3D model was used for informed consent. The patient was then taken to the hybrid operating room. On‐table cone beam CT was performed and registered with the CTA images. This enabled overlay of 3D regions of interest to live 2D fluoroscopy. The stent graft was then deployed using 3D regions of interest for guidance. Hemodynamics and angiography demonstrated successful exclusion of the sinus venosus ASD and unobstructed return of RUPV to the LA. This is the first report of comprehensive use of contemporary imaging for planning, simulation, patient consent, and procedural guidance for patient‐centered complex structural intervention in repair of sinus venosus ASD with PAPVR. We propose this as a process model for continued innovation in structural interventions.
Renal infarction in vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome masquerading as pyelonephritis
Authors: Dousa Khalid M. , Khan Kashif , Alencherry Ben , Deng Lin , Salata Robert A.
Published: June 2018

Key Clinical Message

Symptoms associated with numerous diseases can be indistinguishable from those of the urinary system disorders because receptors of many visceral organs as well as the body wall transmit sensation through pain fibers shared with the kidneys. Disregarding important family background of genetic disorder can be detrimental for some patients.
Behavior of Ru–bda Water‐Oxidation Catalysts in Low Oxidation States
Authors: Matheu Roc , Ghaderian Abolfazl , Francàs Laia , Chernev Petko , Ertem Mehmed Z. , Benet‐Buchholz Jordi , Batista Victor S. , Haumann Michael , Gimbert‐Suriñach Carolina , Sala Xavier , Llobet Antoni
Published: June 2018

The Ru complex [RuII(bda‐κ‐N2O2)(N‐NH2)2] (1; bda2−=2,2′‐bipyridine‐6,6′‐dicarboxylate, N‐NH2=4‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)aniline) was used as a synthetic intermediate to prepare new RuII and RuIII bda complexes that contain NO+, MeCN, or H2O ligands. In acidic solution complex 1 reacts with an excess of NO+ (generated in situ from sodium nitrite) to form a new Ru complex in which the aryl amine ligand N−NH2 is transformed into a diazonium salt [N‐N2+=4‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)benzenediazonium)] together with the formation of a new Ru(NO) moiety in the equatorial zone, to generate [RuII(bda‐κ‐N2O)(NO)(N‐N2)2]3+ (23+). Here the bda2− ligand binds in a κ‐N2O tridentate manner with a dangling carboxylate group. Similarly, complex 1 can also react with a coordinating solvent, such as MeCN, at room temperature to give [RuII(bda‐κ‐N2O)(MeCN)(N‐NH2)2] (3). In acidic aqueous solutions, a related reaction occurs in which solvent water coordinates to the Ru center to form {[RuII{bda‐κ‐(NO)3}(H2O)(N‐NH3)2](H2O)n}2+ (42+) and is strongly hydrogen‐bonded with additional water molecules in the second coordination sphere. Furthermore, under acidic conditions the aniline ligands are also protonated to form the corresponding anilinium cationic ligands N‐NH3+. Additionally, the one‐electron oxidized complex {[RuIII{bda‐κ‐(NO)3.5}(H2O)(N‐NH3)2](H2O)n}3+ (53+) was characterized, in which the fractional value in the κ notation indicates the presence of an additional contact to the pseudo‐octahedral geometry of the Ru center. The coordination modes of the complexes were studied in the solid state and in solution through single‐crystal XRD, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, variable‐temperature NMR spectroscopy, and DFT calculations. While κ‐N2O is the main coordination mode for 23+ and 3, an equilibrium that involves isomers with κ‐N2O and κ‐NO2 coordination modes and neighboring hydrogen‐bonded water molecules is observed for 42+ and 53+.
Comparing outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with stenotic bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valve: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kanjanahattakij Napatt , Horn Benjamin , Vutthikraivit Wasawat , Biso Sylvia Marie , Ziccardi Mary Rodriguez , Lu Marvin Louis Roy , Rattanawong Pattara
Published: June 2018

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become an alternative treatment to surgery in patients with severe aortic stenosis. However, patients with bicuspid aortic stenosis (BAV) are usually excluded from major TAVR studies. The aim of this study is to reexamine current evidence of TAVR in patients with severe aortic stenosis and BAV compared with tricuspid aortic valve (TAV).

Hypothesis

There might be differences in outcomes post TAVR between patients with BAV comparing to TAV.

Method

Databases were systematically searched for relevant articles featuring cohort studies that included patients with BAV and TAV who underwent TAVR studies, of which reported outcomes of interest included mortality and complications in both groups. Pooled effect size was calculated with a random‐effect model and weighted for the inverse of variance, to compare outcomes post‐TAVR between BAV and TAV.

Results

Nine studies were included in the meta‐analysis. There was no difference in 30‐day mortality rate in patients with BAV compared with TAV (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 0.84–1.93, I2 = 0). Patients with BAV were more likely to have a moderate to severe paravalvular leak (9 studies; OR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.08–1.87, I2 = 0) and conversion to surgery (5 studies; OR: 5.48, 95% CI: 1.74–17.27, I2 = 0), and less likely to have device success compared with patients with TAV (5 studies; OR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.40–0.81, I2 = 0%).

Conclusions

There was no difference in mortality post‐TAVR in patients with BAV compared with TAV. Further randomized studies should be done in newer‐generation prostheses to assess this association.
Is self‐rated health associated with ideal cardiovascular health? The Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Osibogun Olatokunbo , Ogunmoroti Oluseye , Spatz Erica S. , Burke Gregory L. , Michos Erin D.
Published: June 2018

Background

Self‐rated health (SRH) is an indicator of health status—a determinant of health‐promoting behaviors and a predictor of morbidity/mortality. Little is known about the association between SRH and ideal cardiovascular health (CVH), as measured by the AHA Life's Simple 7 (LS7) metrics, or whether the relationship between SRH and CVH differs by race/ethnicity.

Hypothesis

Favorable SRH is associated with better CVH.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis of 6457 men and women (4 race/ethnicities) who participated in the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. SRH was measured on a 5‐point Likert scale (excellent, very good, good, fair, and poor). CVH was assessed using the LS7 metrics, each scored from 0 to 2, with a total score of 0 to 14. Scores of 0 to 8 indicate inadequate, 9 to 10, average, and 11 to 14, optimal CVH. ORs and 95% CIs were calculated for associations between SRH and CVH scores using multinomial logistic regression, adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, income, marital status, health insurance, and chronic diseases.

Results

Mean age of participants was 62 ± 10 years; 53% were female. Odds of ideal CVH increased as SRH improved. Compared with poor–fair SRH, adjusted ORs and 95% CIs for optimal CVH by SRH status were excellent, 4.9 (3.4–7.0); very good, 2.2 (1.6–3.1); and good, 1.5 (1.1–2.1). Results were similar by race/ethnicity, sex, and age groups.

Conclusions

More favorable SRH was associated with better CVH, irrespective of sex, race/ethnicity, or age. Further research could explore whether optimization of SRH predicts CVH.
Is corporate social responsibility pursuing pristine business goals for sustainable development?
Authors: Hoque Nazamul , Rahman Abdul Rahim Abdul , Molla Rafiqul Islam , Noman Abu Hanifa Md. , Bhuiyan Mohammad Zahid Hossain
Published: June 2018

There is a continuing academic debate on corporate social responsibility (CSR), its goals and practices, and its impact on business and society. Following this debate, this study has made a critical investigation of CSR practices of business enterprises with a view to examining their spirit, intentions and roles in terms of pristine business goals. After analyzing the contents of pertinent literature (126 articles, of which 89 are empirical) in both developed and developing country contexts, the study finds that corporate managers are still less concerned about the meaning and essence of pristine business goals and the true goals and role of CSR. They practice CSR largely in a voluntary philanthropic fashion to build public image and primarily enhance business profit, not necessarily for social wellbeing. Their CSR practices have been found to be more of a cosmetic and face‐saving marketing strategy, undermining the social wellbeing goal for sustainable development. The CSR movement, therefore, needs reformation.
Measuring corporate social responsibility: A critical review of survey instruments
Authors: Latif Khawaja Fawad , Sajjad Aymen
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study is to identify and review survey instruments used to evaluate stakeholders' perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR). In this article, the Thomson Reuters Web of Science database was used to search for relevant articles. A systematic review of published studies from 1990 to 2017 identified apposite survey instruments employed to measure the stakeholders' perceptions of CSR. Articles were analyzed for descriptive information and psychometric validity. A total of 43 survey instruments were found that measured stakeholders' CSR perception. Of those, 20 articles included all psychometric properties. In addition, the analysis suggested economic, legal, ethical, discretionary/philanthropic, social, and environmental responsibilities as common dimensions. This study contributes to CSR literature by providing several suggestions regarding the development of survey instruments to measure the stakeholders' perceptions of CSR.
Challenges and barriers to advocacy: A student perspective
Authors: Kennedy Samantha
Published: June 2018

The word “disability” carries multiple definitions across contexts, which are often at odds. While I am disabled according to the Americans with Disabilities Act, I have never considered myself a person with a disability. I was nudged to advocate for myself as a child, even though I was resentful being asked to disclose my disability to strangers, while I was still struggling to accept the label myself.
Quality of the antimalarial medicine artemether – lumefantrine in 8 cities of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mufusama Jean‐Pierre , Ndjoko Ioset Karine , Feineis Doris , Hoellein Ludwig , Holzgrabe Ulrike , Bringmann Gerhard
Published: June 2018

In the context of post‐marketing surveillance supporting public‐health authorities to take evidence‐based decisions to fight the spread of poor‐quality medicines, the quality of antimalarial artemether‐lumefantrine (AL) medicines was assessed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). A total of 150 samples of AL‐containing products was collected from private pharmaceutical outlets in 8 main cities: Goma, Kikwit, Kinshasa, Kisangani, Lubumbashi, Matadi, Mbandaka, and Mbuji‐Mayi. All drug samples were successively analyzed by visual inspection, thin‐layer chromatography (TLC), and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) following The International Pharmacopoeia. Of the 150 collected drug samples, 3 (2%) failed the visual inspection as they had shelf lives different from those of other samples with the same brand name. Four samples (2.7%) did not pass the TLC test as they contained only 1 or even none of the 2 declared active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). HPLC assays showed that 46 (30.7%) samples had artemether contents below 90% and 17 (11.3%) above 110% of the content claimed on the label. For lumefantrine, 32 (21.7%) samples had contents below 90%, and 8 (5.3%) had contents above 110%. This survey in DRC gives evidence that poor‐quality antimalarial medicines are widely present. Based on 3 detection techniques, the study shows the necessity to equip developing countries with modern techniques such as HPLC, which, if combined with affordable techniques like TLC, could provide a pertinent analytical strategy to combat drug counterfeiting and poor manufacturing.
Estimating infection prevalence: Best practices and their theoretical underpinnings
Authors: Miller Ian F. , Schneider‐Crease India , Nunn Charles L. , Muehlenbein Michael P.
Published: June 2018

Accurately estimating infection prevalence is fundamental to the study of population health, disease dynamics, and infection risk factors. Prevalence is estimated as the proportion of infected individuals (“individual‐based estimation”), but is also estimated as the proportion of samples in which evidence of infection is detected (“anonymous estimation”). The latter method is often used when researchers lack information on individual host identity, which can occur during noninvasive sampling of wild populations or when the individual that produced a fecal sample is unknown. The goal of this study was to investigate biases in individual‐based versus anonymous prevalence estimation theoretically and to test whether mathematically derived predictions are evident in a comparative dataset of gastrointestinal helminth infections in nonhuman primates. Using a mathematical model, we predict that anonymous estimates of prevalence will be lower than individual‐based estimates when (a) samples from infected individuals do not always contain evidence of infection and/or (b) when false negatives occur. The mathematical model further predicts that no difference in bias should exist between anonymous estimation and individual‐based estimation when one sample is collected from each individual. Using data on helminth parasites of primates, we find that anonymous estimates of prevalence are significantly and substantially (12.17%) lower than individual‐based estimates of prevalence. We also observed that individual‐based estimates of prevalence from studies employing single sampling are on average 6.4% higher than anonymous estimates, suggesting a bias toward sampling infected individuals. We recommend that researchers use individual‐based study designs with repeated sampling of individuals to obtain the most accurate estimate of infection prevalence. Moreover, to ensure accurate interpretation of their results and to allow for prevalence estimates to be compared among studies, it is essential that authors explicitly describe their sampling designs and prevalence calculations in publications.
Transitioning western U.S. dry forests to limited committed warming with bet‐hedging and natural disturbances
Authors: Baker William L.
Published: June 2018

Historical evidence suggests natural disturbances could allow more forest persistence, than expected from models, over 40 yr of transition to the net‐zero emissions needed to limit warming to <2.0°C (e.g., Paris Agreement). Forests must ultimately equilibrate with committed warming from accumulated emissions. Historical dry‐forest landscapes were heterogeneous from large, infrequent disturbances (LIDs) that reduced tree density and basal area, followed by slow, variable tree regeneration and recovery for 1–3 centuries. These together effectively provided bet‐hedging through stand‐ and landscape‐level heterogeneity that enhanced resistance and resilience to a diversity of unpredictable subsequent disturbances. Recent disturbances have not yet exceeded historical variability in rates and patterns, but could cause mortality of ∼26–51% of dry‐forest area in the transition. This also means 1/2 to 3/4 of dry‐forest area could escape most mortality and the mortality area could also have substantial forest persistence. Projections are unavailable for droughts or beetle outbreaks, but they recently caused about 3–4 times as much tree mortality as did moderate‐ to high‐severity fires. Mortality could reduce forest area if new trees do not regenerate, but 24 studies showed recent regeneration after high‐severity fires was slow, but indistinct from historical variability. Survival of smaller trees provided regeneration after beetle outbreaks and droughts. Regeneration in general was projected by 2060 to decline by ∼10% in one study and increase by 50% in another. If openings from disturbances increased, some grasslands and shrublands could be restored, increasing landscape heterogeneity and resistance to disturbance spread. Given these trends and our limited ability to preventLIDs, I suggest (1) refocusing restoration to increase bet‐hedging resilience to droughts and beetle outbreaks by retaining small trees and diverse tree species, (2) expanding development of fire‐safe landscapes to protect people and infrastructure from unavoidable increased fire, (3) enabling more managed fire to restore and enhance stand‐ and landscape‐scale bet‐hedging, and (4) accepting thatLIDs will revise resistance, resilience, and adaptation, which enhance forest persistence, particularly if post‐disturbance survivors are not logged and trees are not planted. Natural disturbance and slow recovery, if bet‐hedged to increase resistance and resilience, could enable substantial forest persistence.
Formation of Bimetallic Copper–Gold Alloy Nanoparticles Probed by in Situ X‐ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy
Authors: Destro Priscila , Cantaneo Daniel Augusto , Meira Débora M. , dos Santos Honório Guilherme , da Costa Luelc Souza , Bueno José Maria C. , Zanchet Daniela
Published: June 2018

Advanced studies of the formation and growth processes of metal alloy nanoparticles are of great importance and provide a better understanding for the fine tuning of their properties for the desired applications. In this work, we followed the synthesis of Au1–xCux colloidal nanoparticles by in situ time‐resolved X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy. The particles were synthesized by a one‐pot approach with a homemade reactor adapted to the XAFS measurements. The colloidal nanoparticles were also characterized by complementary ex situ techniques. Analyses at the Cu‐K edge and Au‐L3 edge confirmed that the initial reduction of the Au species occurs at low temperatures (<100 °C) to form Au seeds that are subsequently enriched with Cu to form Au0.75Cu0.25 alloy nanoparticles at 225 °C. An important finding was the temporary formation of a Cu2O‐type phase during the colloidal synthesis. This phase was consumed with the concomitant formation of the Au1–xCux alloy nanoparticles. These results directly confirm the previous proposal that the alloy formation occurs through a digestive‐ripening‐like process of an amorphous Cu‐enriched phase.
Synthesis and Properties of B(Ph)(OR) Complexes of Azadipyrrin
Authors: Koch Angira , Kumar Sunit , Ravikanth Mangalampalli
Published: June 2018

The first examples of B(Ph)(OR) complexes of azadipyrrin were prepared through the treatment of azadipyrrin with BPhCl2 in the presence of water, aliphatic alcohol or aryl alcohol in toluene under reflux for 3–4 h. Simple silica gel column chromatographic purification afforded the B(Ph)(OR) complexes of the azadipyrrins in 20–40 % yields. The reactivity of the –OH group at the BIII centre of the B(Ph)(OH) complex of azadipyrrin was tested through the treatment of the complex with (CH3)3SiCl in toluene/pyridine under reflux to afford the B(Ph)[OSi(CH3)3] complex. All B(Ph)(OR) complexes of azadipyrrin were characterized by HRMS as well as 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, and the structure of the B(Ph)(OH) complex of azadipyrrin was determined by X‐ray crystallography. The X‐ray structure revealed that the B(Ph)(OH) complex of azadipyrrin is slightly more distorted than the BF2 complex of azadipyrrin (azaBODIPY) owing to the steric congestion at the BIII centre caused by the bulkier phenyl and –OH groups. Absorption spectroscopy studies of the B(Ph)(OR) complexes of azadipyrrin indicated that the absorption bands experienced hypsochromic shifts compared with those of azaBODIPY. Electrochemical studies indicated that the B(Ph)(OR) complexes of azadipyrrin were more difficult to reduce than azaBODIPY. The B(Ph)(OR) complexes were relatively weakly fluorescent; compared with those of azaBODIPY, the fluorescence bands were hypsochromically shifted, and the quantum yields and singlet‐state lifetimes were reduced.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Reaction of MBH Acetates and Terminal Alkynes: Cascade Synthesis of Phenanthridine and 6‐Arylethynylphenanthridine
Authors: Gupta Tanu , Singh Jay Bahadur , Singh Rashmi , Singh Radhey M.
Published: June 2018

We have described the palladium‐catalyzed regioselective cascade synthesis of phenanthridines and 6‐arylethynylphenanthridines in good to excellent yields from a reaction between Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) acetates and terminal alkynes. These cascade reactions are temperature controlled and favor the formation of phenanthridines when conducted at 50 °C and of 6‐arylethynylphenanthridines when performed at 80 °C.
Comparison of selected clean and green extraction technologies for biomolecules from apple pomace
Authors: Zhang Zhihang , Poojary Mahesha M. , Choudhary Alka , Rai Dilip K. , Tiwari Brijesh K.
Published: June 2018

Apple pomace has been considered as a sustainable source for antioxidant phenolic compounds. Previous reports show extraction of total phenolic contents (TPCs) by following various conventional and nonconventional techniques; however, a comparative study has not been reported. In the present work, conventional extraction was compared with several nonconventional extraction methods including ultrasound‐assisted extraction, microwave‐assisted extraction, high‐speed homogenization. Moreover, efficacy of combined treatments, including high‐speed homogenization coupled with microwave‐assisted extraction and ultrasound‐assisted enzymatic extraction, was evaluated for the recovery of TPC. The results revealed that ultrasound‐assisted enzymatic extraction results in the highest TPC (4.62 mg GAE/g); moreover, it simultaneously enabled the recovery of low methoxy pectins with the degree of methylation ranging from 14.03 to 28.85%. The LC‐Q‐TOF analysis revealed the presence of various phenolic acids and flavonoids. The 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay showed that the phenolic‐rich extracts had IC50 values ranging from 27.1 to 54.6 mg trolox/L depending on the extraction parameters.
Photovoltaic monitoring system for Auger Muons and Infill for the Ground Array
Authors: Cancio Montbrun Angel , Mancilla Alexis , Maya Javier , García Beatriz , Almela Alejandro , Andrada Belén , Botti Ana M. , Etchegoyen Alberto , Figueira Juan M. , Fuster Alan , González Nicolas , Hampel Matías R. , Holt Ewa , Hulsman Johannes , Jose Bachuili Mariela , Leal Nicolas , Lucero Agustín , Melo Diego , Müller Sarah , Perlin Matías , Platino Manuel , Ravignani Diego , Roncoroni Matias , Sánchez Federico , Sarmiento‐Cano Christian , Schmidt David , Silli Gaia , Suarez Federico , Taboada Alvaro , Wainberg Oscar , Wundheiler Brian , Yelós Diana
Published: June 2018

This study is devoted to characterizing the operation of the entire photovoltaic system installed in one of the Auger Muons and Infill for the Ground Array (AMIGA) stations, a complimentary detector for the Pierre Auger Observatory, the largest cosmic‐ray air shower array in the world, 3000 km2, powered exclusively by solar energy. To understand charge and discharge cycles, the whole system behavior under different climatic conditions and to determine its limitations, the design of a new prototype for monitoring the whole system online is a fundamental part of this contribution. Also, it is demonstrated that the configuration of solar charge controllers in parallel is able to manage panels of different powers and brands and that the monitoring system allows analyzing periods with adverse weather conditions.
A New Method for Modulation, Control and Power Boosting in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Ieropoulos I. A. , You J. , Gajda I. , Greenman J.
Published: June 2018

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are energy transducers, which through the metabolic reactions of facultative anaerobic microorganisms, transform the energy in organic matter directly into electricity. Extrinsic parameters such as hydraulic retention time, fuel quality (type and concentration) and physicochemical environment of electrodes and biofilms (e.g., temperature, pH, salinity, and redox), can all influence system efficiency. This work proposes that MFCs can be “fine‐tuned” by adjustment of any of the physicochemical conditions including redox potential; in this context, an entirely novel method was investigated as a practical means of tuning, modulating and monitoring the redox potential within the electrode chambers. The method uses additional electrodes – known as 3rd and 4th‐pins for anode and cathode chambers, respectively – which can be used in individual units, modules, cascades or stacks, for optimising the production of a large variety of chemicals, as well as biomass, water and power. The results have shown that the power output modulation resulted in an up to 79% and 33% increase, when connected via 3rd and 4th pins, respectively. Apart from power improvement, this study also demonstrated a method of open circuit potential (OCP) sensing, by using the same additional electrodes to both monitor and control the MFC signal in real time.
Fuel Cells and Hydrogen: Break‐up into the Future
Authors: Friedrich Andreas , Yousfi Steiner Nadia , Bultel Yann , Hissel Daniel , Turpin Christophe
Published: June 2018

No abstract.
A dual geochemical‐phytolith methodology for studying activity areas in ephemeral sites: Insights from an ethnographic case study from Jordan
Authors: Vos Daniella , Jenkins Emma , Palmer Carol
Published: June 2018

This study aims to contribute to the interpretation of ephemeral sites by exploring the efficacy of geochemistry and phytolith analysis to identify activity areas in seasonally occupied ethnographic sites. The application of a portable X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) instrument and phytolith analysis to soil samples from six Bedouin campsites at Wadi Faynan, Jordan, provided insights about anthropogenic enrichment patterns and the effects of short periods of abandonment on these. The compatibility of the two analysis techniques and means to combine the results of both are addressed. The results of this study suggest that soil signatures can be found in ephemeral sites following abandonment, even in dynamic and harsh environments. The efficacy of the geochemical analysis to indicate variance within the data was found to be greater than that of the phytolith analysis in these case studies, while certain trends within the phytolith results were more useful in identifying specific activities. Due to the compatibility of the geochemical and phytolith data, it is proposed that a serial or parallel approach should be taken for their statistical analysis.
Gene–environment interactions in case–control studies with silent disease
Authors: Lobach Iryna , Sampson Joshua , Lobach Siarhei , Zhang Li
Published: June 2018

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) often measure gene–environment interactions (G × E). We consider the problem of accurately estimating a G × E in a case–control GWAS when a subset of the controls have silent, or undiagnosed, disease and the frequency of the silent disease varies by the environmental variable. We show that using case–control status without accounting for misdiagnosis can lead to biased estimates of the G × E. We further propose a pseudolikelihood approach to remove the bias and accurately estimate how the relationship between the genetic variant and the true disease status varies by the environmental variable. We demonstrate our method in extensive simulations and apply our method to a GWAS of prostate cancer.
A comparative study on cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the hydroxyapatite‐bioactive glass and fluorapatite‐bioactive glass nanocomposite foams as tissue scaffold for bone repair
Authors: Seyedmajidi Seyedali , Seyedmajidi Maryam , Zabihi Ebrahim , Hajian‐Tilaki Karimollah
Published: June 2018

Considering to the possibility of cellular and genetic damage by the implant materials in the patient and the clinician, the safety of the biomaterials should be evaluated. The purpose of this study was to compare the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity induced by two nanocomposites, hydroxyapatite/bioactive glass (HA/BG) and fluorapatite/bioactive glass (FA/BG) in vitro. Biomaterial extracts (BMEX, 100%) were prepared by incubating 100 mg/mL of each biomaterial powder in complete culture medium (RPMI1640 + 10% FBS) for 72 h. Saos‐II cells were exposed to different concentrations of BMEXs for different periods of time and evaluated at the end of each period. According to 3–(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay results, both BMEXs at low concentrations (<25%) has no inhibitory effects on the cells growth. After 24 h of exposure, only HA/BG BMEX at 100% concentration showed significant cytotoxic effect. After 48 and 72 h, both HA/BG and FA/BG BMEXs showed similar cytotoxic effect at concentration higher than 75 and 50%, respectively. The results of the comet assay showed that the tail elongation, and proportionally DNA damage, increased in a dose/time dependently fashion with BMEXs exposure. Based on low and similar cytotoxicity and genotoxicity profiles on the Saos‐II cell line, it could be concluded that FA/BG, like HA/BG, could be a good candidate for further in vivo biocompatibility studies to be used in bone tissue repair. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 2605–2612, 2018.
In vivo biocompatibility and time‐dependent changes in mechanical properties of woven collagen meshes: A comparison to xenograft and synthetic mid‐urethral sling materials
Authors: Chapin Katherine , Khalifa Ahmad , Mbimba Thomas , McClellan Phillip , Anderson James , Novitsky Yuri , Hijaz Adonis , Akkus Ozan
Published: June 2018

Meshes woven from highly aligned collagen threads crosslinked using either genipin or 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carboiimide and N‐hydroxy succinimide (EDC/NHS) were implanted in a subcutaneous rat model to evaluate their biocompatibility (at 2 weeks, 2 months, and 5 months), mechanical properties (at baseline, 2 months, and 5 months) and ultimately their suitability for use as mid‐urethral slings (MUS) for management of stress urinary incontinence. Porcine dermal (Xenmatrix) and monofilament polypropylene (Prolene) meshes were also implanted to provide comparison to clinically used materials. Quantitative histological scoring showed tissue integration in Xenmatrix was almost absent, while the open network of woven collagen and Prolene meshes allowed for cellular and tissue integration. However, strength and stiffness of genipin‐crosslinked collagen (GCC), Prolene, and Xenmatrix meshes were not significantly different from those of native rectus fascia and vaginal tissues of animals at 5 months. EDC/NHS‐crosslinked collagen (ECC) meshes were degraded so extensively at five months that samples could only be used for histological staining. Picrosirius red and Masson's trichrome staining revealed that integrated tissue within GCC meshes was more aligned (p = 0.02) and appeared more concentrated than ECC meshes at 5 months. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining showed that GCC meshes attracted a greater number of cells expressing markers for M2 macrophages, those associated with regeneration, than ECC meshes (p = 0.01 for CD206+ cells, p = 0.001 CD163+ cells) at 5 months. As such, GCC meshes hold promise as a new MUS biomaterial based on favorable induction of fibrous tissue resulting in mechanical stiffness matching that of native tissue. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 479–489, 2019.
A green and practical one‐pot two‐step strategy for the synthesis of symmetric 3,6‐diarylpyridazines
Authors: Rimaz Mehdi , Mousavi Hossein , Khalili Behzad , Aali Farkhondeh
Published: June 2018

A simple, mild, and efficient synthesis of symmetric 3,6‐diarylpyridazine derivatives using a green catalytic one‐pot two‐step reaction of aryl methyl ketones, arylglyoxal monohydrates, and hydrazine hydrate was developed. Environmentally benign nature, high atom‐economy, no harmful byproduct, easy workup procedure, no column chromatography steps, and moderate to excellent yields of the products are the salient features of this new multicomponent‐based methodology.
Studies on the relationship between perforating vein insufficiency and iliac compression syndrome
Authors: Lin Lin , Tang JinFeng , Huang Zhihua , Huang Zhiping , Liao Ping , Ye Bo , Liu Lei , Guo Chaoqing
Published: June 2018

Objective

To study correlation among number(n), diameter (D), and blood reflux time(t) and the left common iliac vein stenosis degree of the expansion of perforating veins, so as to guide the clinical formulation and adjust the treatment plan.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 45 PVs patients with left common iliac vein in different degrees of compression in our hospital from 2010 to 2012 was performed. Left common iliac vein was divided into 50%‐69%, 70%‐99%, 30%‐49% and occlusion of the stenosis to avoid the error of the left iliac vein stenosis. Pearson's correlation analysis among the number, diameter, and blood reflux time of perforating veins and left common iliac vein was performed.

Results

Pearson's correlation analysis among the number, diameter, and blood back flow time of perforating veins, and the degree of stenosis was performed, and these results showed that correlation coefficients among the number, diameter, and blood return the PVs between flow time and the degree of stenosis were rp‐n = 0.784, rp‐d = 0.893, rp‐t = 0.845 (P < .001), respectively. The two variables exist positive correlation and correlation was significant.

Conclusion

With the increase in left common iliac vein stenosis, the number of perforating veins and the diameter increased, and the time of blood flow were prolonged.
Early stress priming and the effects on fitness‐related traits following an adult stress exposure
Authors: Hoffman Alexander J. , Finger John W. , Wada Haruka
Published: June 2018

Developmental stressors can have strong effects that persist well into adulthood, and are generally seen as detrimental. However, recent work suggests that a mild developmental stressor can have beneficial effects by preparing the organism to better withstand negative impacts when exposed to high levels of the stressor later in life, also known as a conditioning hormesis. Still, little is known about the influence of such hormetic effects on fitness‐related measures. We hypothesized that exposure to a mild stressor during development will protect individuals later in life from the negative effects of a high heat stressor on immune function and reproduction. To test this hypothesis, we subjected zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) to a repeated mild heat stressor (38°C) as juveniles for 28 days. As adults, the birds were then exposed to a high heat stressor (42°C) for 3 consecutive days and we examined the effects on immune function via wound healing, and on female reproductive output. We found that females given the mild heat stressor as juveniles healed wounds marginally slower, but also had higher clutch viability than controls. For the adult treatment, we saw that high heat had a stimulatory effect on clutch viability as well. Our findings point toward the occurrence of trade‐offs between immune function and reproduction due to a cost of hormetic priming when the adult environment does not match that of early life.
Komlós's tiling theorem via graphon covers
Authors: Hladký Jan , Hu Ping , Piguet Diana
Published: June 2018

Komlós [Komlós: Tiling Turán Theorems, Combinatorica, 2000] determined the asymptotically optimal minimum‐degree condition for covering a given proportion of vertices of a host graph by vertex‐disjoint copies of a fixed graph H, thus essentially extending the Hajnal–Szemerédi theorem that deals with the case when H is a clique. We give a proof of a graphon version of Komlós's theorem. To prove this graphon version, and also to deduce from it the original statement about finite graphs, we use the machinery introduced in [Hladký, Hu, Piguet: Tilings in graphons, arXiv:1606.03113]. We further prove a stability version of Komlós's theorem.
Synthesis of carbon‐14 labeled ZJ0712, a novel strobilurin fungicide
Authors: Yang Zheng‐Min , Xu Ya‐Jun , Zhang Gui‐Hua , Jian Cai‐Guang , Li Xiao , Ye Qing‐Fu
Published: June 2018

ZJ0712, a broad‐spectrum fungicidal ingredient of strobilurin, exhibits a high protective and curative activity against plant pathogenic fungi. To support the study on its metabolism, residue, environmental behavior, and fate for safety evaluation, two versions of carbon‐14 labeled ZJ0712, methyl (E)‐2‐(2‐((2,5‐dimethylphenoxy)methyl)phenyl)‐3‐methoxy[2‐14C]acrylate (2) and methyl (E)‐2‐(2‐((2,5‐dimethyl[phenyl‐U‐14C6]phenoxy)methyl)phenyl)‐3‐methoxyacrylate (3), were synthesized from barium [14C]carbonate in 6‐step yield of 47% and from 2,5‐dimethyl[phenyl‐U‐14C6]phenol in the yield of 91%, respectively.
Presence of meniscus tear alters gene expression profile of anterior cruciate ligament tears
Authors: Brophy Robert H. , Rothermich Marcus A. , Tycksen Eric D. , Cai Lei , Rai Muhammad Farooq
Published: June 2018

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears occur in isolation or in tandem with other intra‐articular injuries such as meniscus tears. The impact of injury pattern on the molecular biology of the injured ACL is unknown. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the biological response of the ACL to injury varies based on the presence or absence of concomitant meniscus tear. We performed RNA‐seq on 28 ACL tears remnants (12 isolated, 16 combined). In total, 16,654 transcripts were differentially expressed between isolated and combined injury groups at false discovery rate of 0.05. Due to the large number of differentially expressed transcripts, we undertook an Ensembl approach to discover features that acted as hub genes that did not necessarily have large fold changes or high statistical significance, but instead had high biological significance. Our data revealed a negatively correlated module containing 5,960 transcripts (down‐regulated in combined injury) and a positively correlated module containing 2,260 transcripts (up‐regulated in combined injury). TNS1, MEF2D, NOTCH3, SOGA1, and MLXIP were highly‐connected hub genes in the negatively correlated module and SCN2A, CSMD3, LRC44, USH2A, and LRP1B were critical hub genes in the positively correlated module. Transcripts in the negatively correlated module were associated with biological adhesion, actin‐filament organization, cell junction assembly, and cell matrix adhesion. The positively correlated module transcripts were enriched for neuron migration and exocytosis regulation. These findings indicate genes and pathways reflective of healing deficiency and gain of neurogenic signaling in combined ACL and meniscus tears, suggesting their diminished repair potential. The biological response of ACL to injury could have implications for healing potential of the ligament and the long term health of the knee. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2612–2621, 2018.
Simple staging system for osteosarcoma performs equivalently to the AJCC and MSTS systems
Authors: Cates Justin M.M.
Published: June 2018

Both the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) and Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) staging systems for skeletal sarcomas have major weaknesses. A revised staging system for osteosarcoma (the Vanderbilt system) was developed based on exploratory analyses of the relative prognostic impacts of histologic grade, tumor size, local tumor extension, and specific anatomic sites of metastasis using case records from the National Cancer Database (N = 4,285). AJCC, MSTS, and Vanderbilt staging schemes were then compared using a separate, population‐based cancer registry (the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database; N = 2,246) as a validation dataset. Predictive accuracy for 5‐year sarcoma‐specific survival was evaluated by comparing areas under receiver‐operating characteristic curves generated from logistic regression. Three different concordance indices and Bayesian information criteria were also calculated for model comparisons. The Vanderbilt staging system showed comparable predictive accuracy for 5‐year disease‐specific survival (65%) compared to the AJCC (67%) and MSTS (67%) staging systems. Most cross‐comparisons of model concordance were not significantly different either. Bayesian information criterion was lowest for the MSTS staging system. Substaging osteosarcoma by current anatomical criteria is ineffectual. A simplified staging system based only on histologic grade and the presence of distant metastasis to any anatomic site performs similarly to the current AJCC and MSTS staging systems by multiple statistical criteria and is proposed for clinical and pathological staging of osteosarcomas of the non‐pelvic appendicular and non‐spinal axial skeleton. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2802–2808, 2018.
Error introduced by common reorientation algorithms in the assessment of rodent trabecular morphometry using micro‐computed tomography
Authors: Newton Michael D. , Hartner Samantha , Gawronski Karissa , Maerz Tristan
Published: June 2018

Quantitative analyses of bone using micro‐computed tomography (μCT) are routinely employed in preclinical research, and virtual image reorientation to a consistent reference frame is a common processing step. The purpose of this study was to quantify error introduced by common reorientation algorithms in μCT‐based characterization of bone. Mouse and rat tibial metaphyses underwent μCT scanning at a range of resolutions (6–30 μm). A trabecular volume‐of‐interest (VOI) was manually selected. Image stacks were analyzed without rotation, following 45° In‐Plane axial rotation, and following 45° Triplanar rotation. Interpolation was performed using Nearest‐Neighbor, Linear, and Cubic interpolations. Densitometric (bone volume fraction, tissue mineral density, bone mineral density) and morphometric variables (trabecular thickness, trabecular spacing, trabecular number, structural model index) were computed for each combination of voxel size, rotation, and interpolation. Significant reorientation error was measured in all parameters, and was exacerbated at higher voxel sizes, with relatively low error at 6 and 12 μm (max. reorientation error in BV/TV was 2.9% at 6 μm, 7.7% at 12 μm and 36.5% at 30 μm). Considering densitometric parameters, Linear and Cubic interpolations introduced significant error while Nearest‐Neighbor interpolation caused minimal error, and In‐Plane rotation caused greater error than Triplanar. Morphometric error was strongly and intricately dependent on the combination of rotation and interpolation employed. Reorientation error can be eliminated by avoiding reorientation altogether or by “de‐rotating” VOIs from reoriented images back to the original reference frame prior to analysis. When these are infeasible, reorientation error can be minimized through sufficiently high resolution scanning, careful selection of interpolation type, and consistent processing of all images. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2762–2770, 2018.
Wines in contact with oak wood: the impact of the variety (Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon), format (barrels, chips and staves), and aging time on the phenolic composition
Authors: Laqui‐Estaña Jaime , López‐Solís Remigio , Peña‐Neira Álvaro , Medel‐Marabolí Marcela , Obreque‐Slier Elías
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

This study characterized the flavonoid and nonflavonoid phenolic composition of Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon wines that were in contact with barrels, chips, and staves during a 12 month aging period. The wines were evaluated by spectrophotometric (for total phenols, anthocyanins and tannins, colorant intensity, hue, CIELab parameters, and fractionation into mono‐, oligo‐, and polymers of proanthocyanidins) and high‐performance liquid chromatography diode array detection analyses (for ellagitannins, gallotannins, anthocyanins, and low molecular weight phenols).

RESULTS

Wines in contact with oak wood presented a strong enrichment with nonflavonoid compounds, such as caffeic, gallic, and ellagic acids and ellagitannins. Wines in contact with staves stood out for the increased presence of total phenols, vanillic acid, and higher color intensity, whereas wines aged in contact with chips showed large contents of proanthocyanidin gallates. Wines aged in barrels exhibited high contents of ellagitannins and ethyl gallates. The effect of wood on the phenolic composition was mostly associated with the original and intrinsic characteristics of each grape variety.

CONCLUSION

Extraction of phenolic compounds from oak wood during wine aging is closely related to the wood format, grape variety (Carménère or Cabernet Sauvignon), and aging time. The final effect of wood on wine would be related not just to the transference of polyphenols from wood, but also to structural modifications of grape polyphenols. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Solid‐phase extraction using octadecyl‐bonded silica modified with photosynthetic pigments from Spinacia oleracea L. for the preconcentration of lead(II) ions from aqueous samples
Authors: Blicharska Eliza , Tatarczak‐Michalewska Małgorzata , Plazińska Anita , Plaziński Wojciech , Kowalska Anna , Madejska Anna , Szymańska‐Chargot Monika , Sroka‐Bartnicka Anna , Flieger Jolanta
Published: June 2018

Spinacia oleracea L. extract was immobilized on an octadecyl‐bonded silica surface to produce a new sorbent for the solid‐phase extraction of trace amounts of metal ions from aqueous neutral samples. A measurement of the metal content has been performed by using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy. The affinity of the investigated bivalent metal cations for the modified sorbent are in the order: Pb(II) > Cu(II) > Ni(II) > Zn(II) ≈ Cd(II) ≈ Co(II). The quantum‐chemically calculated chlorophyll‐a–metal ion binding energies were consistent with the measured affinities of the corresponding metal ions to the investigated sorbent. The maximum sorption capacity obtained for Pb(II) was equal to 1.44 μmol/g. The value of lead uptake was significantly higher in comparison to the one reported for other sorbents and biosorbents. Immobilized chlorophyll a is responsible for a chelation process with stoichiometry 1:1 owing to the porphyrin rings, which was confirmed by the quantitative analysis performed by reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection. The Toth adsorption isotherm model was applicable to the description of the adsorption process of either chlorophyll a or Pb(II). The structural analysis of sorbent was done using Fourier‐transform Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy with an energy dispersive X‐ray detector.