bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endovascular therapy for Angio‐sealTM‐related acute limb ischemia: Perioperative and long‐term results
Authors: Dong Hui , Peng Meng , Jiang Xiongjing , Che Wuqiang , Zou Yubao , Xu Bo , Yang Yuejin , Gao Runlin
Published: February 2017

Objectives

To investigate the perioperative and long‐term outcomes of endovascular therapy for Angio‐sealTM‐related acute limb ischemia.

Background

Currently, limited data are available on the optimal treatment strategy for Angio‐sealTM‐related acute lower limb ischemia.

Methods

The prospectively maintained patient database of our institution was retrospectively searched to identify all patients who developed acute lower limb ischemia after use of the Angio‐SealTM and received endovascular treatment from January 2010 to February 2016. The clinical and follow‐up data were evaluated.

Results

Thirty‐two patients with Angio‐SealTM‐related acute limb ischemia underwent endovascular therapy, resulting in an approximated incidence of 0.29% of all implanted devices. The overall procedural success rate was 96.9%. With regard to the patients who underwent successful endovascular treatment, the culprit lesion was located in the common femoral artery in 22 (71.0%) cases, the femoral artery bifurcation in 3 (9.7%) cases and the superficial femoral artery in 6 (19.4%) cases. Ten (31.3%) patients had thrombosis in other distal lower limb arteries ipsilateral to Angio‐sealTM use. Eighteen (58.1%) patients underwent balloon angioplasty alone, while nine (29.0%) patients underwent balloon angioplasty and thrombolysis, and four (12.9%) patients underwent stent implantation. One patient suffered from minor bleeding at the site of application of the Angio‐sealTM. During an average of 43.5 ± 22.9 months of follow‐up, three patients with symptomatic restenosis underwent a second successful balloon angioplasty and remained asymptomatic until the last follow‐up.

Conclusions

Balloon angioplasty with selective thrombolysis or stent placement was safe and effective, with a low incidence of complication and restenosis. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tissue characterization and phenotype classification in patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction: Insights from the iWonder study
Authors: Souza Cristiano F. , Maehara Akiko , Mintz Gary S. , Matsumura Mitsuaki , Alves Claudia M.R. , Carlos Carvalho Antonio , Caixeta Adriano
Published: February 2017

Objectives

We sought to assess a new modality of radiofrequency intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) called iMAP‐IVUS (Boston Scientific, Santa Clara, California) during the evaluation of patients presenting with high‐risk acute coronary syndromes.

Background

There are limited data on plaque tissue characterization and phenotype classification using iMAP‐IVUS.

Methods

In the iWonder study patients presenting with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) or non‐STEMI underwent three‐vessel grayscale IVUS and iMAP‐IVUS tissue characterization prior to percutaneous intervention. In total 385 lesions from 100 patients were divided into culprit (n = 100) and nonculprit (n = 285) lesions. Lesion phenotype was classified as (i) thin‐cap fibroatheroma (iMAP‐derived TCFA); (ii) thick‐cap fibroatheroma; (iii) pathological intimal thickening; (iv) fibrotic plaque; and (v) fibrocalcific plaque.

Results

Culprit lesions had smaller minimum lumen cross‐sectional area (MLA) with greater plaque burden compared to non‐culprit lesions. Volumetric analysis showed that culprit lesions had longer length and larger vessel and plaque volumes compared to non‐culprit lesions. iMAP‐IVUS revealed that culprit lesions presented more NC and fibrofatty volume, both at lesion level and at the MLA site (all P < 0.001). Any fibroatheroma was more frequently identified in culprit lesions compared with non‐culprit lesions (93% vs. 78.9%, P = 0.001), anywhere within the lesion 19.0%, P < 0.001) as well as at the MLA site (18.0% vs. 9.5%, P = 0.07).

Conclusions

Three‐vessel radiofrequency iMAP‐IVUS demonstrated a greater plaque burden and higher prevalence of any fibroatheroma as well as iMAP‐derived TCFAs in culprit versus non‐culprit lesions in patients presenting with STEMI or non‐STEMI undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Harnessing a p‐Quinone Methide Intermediate in the Biomimetic Total Synthesis of the Highly Active Antibiotic 20‐Deoxy‐Elansolid B1
Authors: Wang Liang Liang , Candito David , Dräger Gerald , Herrmann Jennifer , Müller Rolf , Kirschning Andreas
Published: February 2017

The polyketide, 20‐deoxy elansolid B1, was prepared by a convergent strategy that relied on a putative biomimetic intramolecular Diels–Alder cycloaddition (IMDA) via a vinylic p‐quinone methide intermediate to furnish the key tetrahydroindane unit. The (Z,E,Z)‐configured triene unit was constructed by Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura and Stille cross‐coupling reactions without isomerization of any of the olefinic double bonds. Formation of a p‐methide quinone intermediate under basic conditions and subsequent Michael addition by water to this intermediate proceeded with high facial selectivity which terminated this total synthesis. Remarkably, the new elansolid derivative 2 c shows very good inhibitory effect against Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) similarly to the best elansolid derivatives reported so far. Consequently, the hydroxyl group at C20 is not essential for antibacterial activity.
Zn2+‐Ion Sensing by Fluorescent Schiff Base Calix[4]arene Macrocycles
Authors: Ullmann Steve , Schnorr René , Handke Marcel , Laube Christian , Abel Bernd , Matysik Jörg , Findeisen Matthias , Rüger Robert , Heine Thomas , Kersting Berthold
Published: February 2017

A macrocyclic ligand (H2L) containing two o,o′‐bis(iminomethyl)phenol and two calix[4]arene head units has been synthesized and its coordination chemistry towards divalent Ni and Zn investigated. The new macrocycle forms complexes of composition [ML] (M=Zn, M=Ni) and [ZnL(py)2], which were characterized by elemental analysis; IR, UV/Vis, and NMR spectroscopy; electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS); and X‐ray crystallography (for [ZnL(py)2] and [NiL]). H2L allows the sensitive optical detection of Zn2+ among a series of biologically relevant metal ions by a dual fluorescence enhancement/quenching effect in solution. The fluorescence intensity of the macrocycle increases by a factor of ten in the presence of Zn2+ with a detection limit in the lower nanomolar region.
co.labore—A Genuine Collaboration between Arts and Science, Reflecting Viewpoints and Merging Skills
Authors: Rakers Lena , Tebben Ludger , Glorius Frank
Published: February 2017

Often chemists regard their scientific work as creative, when designing and synthesizing new molecules and larger assemblies. In this, we have to go through recurring stages of planning projects, doubting results, discarding ideas, and restarting them with a different approach in order to be successful in chemical research. From this point of view, can we fairly assume that these processes are analogous to the stages artists go through when creating art? In our efforts to strengthen reflective perspectives on what chemists are doing, the SFB 858 initiated a collaboration with the Academy of Fine Arts Münster. Additionally, we were aiming to enter into a dialogue about our research with a broader public.
Photophysical Enhancement of Triplet Emitters by Coordination‐Driven Self‐Assembly
Authors: Zhang Yuzhen , Fulong Cressa Ria P. , Hauke Cory E. , Crawley Matthew R. , Friedman Alan E. , Cook Timothy R.
Published: February 2017

The quantum yields of organic fluorophores used as donors in coordination‐driven self‐assembly often suffer from the heavy atom effect of nearby metal sites. Here, the role of intersystem crossing from a deactivating process to one that delivers emissive triplet states was reversed. A phosphorescent trans bis‐N‐heterocyclic carbene platinum(II) compound, Pt(dhim)2(C≡C‐4‐py)2 (D1; dhim=1,3‐dihexyl‐2‐H‐imidazol‐2‐ylidene), was used along with other linear donors 4,4′‐bipyridine (D2) and 1,4‐bis(4‐pyridyl ethynyl)benzene (D3) in self‐assembly reactions with Pt(dtbpy)X2 acceptors (dtbpy=4,4′‐di‐tert‐butyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine) to afford three metallacycles. Photophysical investigations revealed that, although the building blocks used to construct M1 have relatively low quantum yields (Φ=1.2 and <1 % for D1 and 2, respectively), the metallacycle has a quantum yield of 14 %. This increase reflects a change in radiative rate constant from 3.6×104 s−1 for D1 to 2.1×105 s−1 for M1.
The influence of chemotherapy on the right ventricle: did we forget something?
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Cuspidi Cesare , Hering Dagmara , Venneri Lucia , Danylenko Oleksandr
Published: February 2017

Background

A large number of chemotherapy‐induced cardiovascular complications were discovered in studies over the last several decades. The focus of the majority of these studies was left ventricular (LV) remodeling. The aim of this article was to provide a comprehensive overview of potential mechanisms of chemotherapy‐induced right ventricular (RV) remodeling and summarize clinical studies on this topic.

Hypothesis

Chemotherapy induces RV structural, functional, and mechanical changes.

Methods

We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Ovid and Embase databases for studies published from January 1990 up to September 2016 in the English language using the following keyword “chemotherapy,” “heart,” “right ventricle,” “anthracyclines,” and “trastuzumab.”

Results

The existing research show that RV remodeling occurs simultaneously with LV remodeling, which is why RV remodeling should not be neglected in the overall cardiac assessment of patients treated with chemotherapy, and especially those protocols that involve anthracyclines and trastuzumab. Investigations showed that these agents could significantly impact RV structure, function, and mechanics. These medications induce fibrosis of the RV myocardium, RV dilatation, decline in RV systolic function, worsening of its diastolic function, and finally impairment of RV mechanics (strain). The mechanisms of chemotherapy‐induced RV remodeling are still not entirely clear, but it is considered that direct destructive influence of chemotherapy on myocardium, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and negative impact on pulmonary circulation could significantly contribute to RV impairment.

Conclusions

Chemotherapy induces the impairment of RV structure, function, and mechanics by different complex mechanisms.
Integrating next‐generation sequencing into pediatric oncology practice: An assessment of physician confidence and understanding of clinical genomics
Authors: Johnson Liza‐Marie , Valdez Jessica M. , Quinn Emily A. , Sykes April D. , McGee Rose B. , Nuccio Regina , Hines‐Dowell Stacy J. , Baker Justin N. , Kesserwan Chimene , Nichols Kim E. , Mandrell Belinda N.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

The incorporation of genomic testing to identify targetable somatic alterations and predisposing germline mutations into the clinical setting is becoming increasingly more common. Despite its potential usefulness, to the authors' knowledge physician confidence with regard to understanding and applying genomic testing remains unclear, particularly within the realm of pediatric oncology.

METHODS

Before initiating an institutional feasibility study regarding the integration of clinical genomic testing, the authors surveyed pediatric oncologists regarding their confidence around understanding of genomic testing, perceived usefulness of test results, preferences around the disclosure of germline test results, and possible risks and benefits of testing.

RESULTS

Among survey respondents (52 of 88 contacted; response rate of 59%), only a minority were confident in interpreting, using, and discussing somatic (35%) or germline (27%) genomic test results. Providers who were confident in interpreting somatic results were significantly more likely to anticipate using the results to plan the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory cancers (P = .009). Similarly, providers who reported confidence in interpreting germline results were significantly more likely to discuss and use these results as part of clinical care (P<.0001). The majority of physicians (93%), regardless of their level of confidence, wanted to speak to a genetic counselor before disclosing germline test results.

CONCLUSIONS

Among physicians at a comprehensive pediatric cancer center, confidence in the interpretation, use, and discussion of oncology‐based genomic test results appears to be low, both in terms of somatic and germline testing. To optimize the integration of genomic sequencing into cancer care, methods must be developed to improve basic competencies around cancer‐based genomic testing. Given the complexities surrounding variant interpretation and genotype‐phenotype relationships, interdisciplinary collaborations are warranted. Cancer 2017;123:2352–2359. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Smokers with chronic myeloid leukemia are at a higher risk of disease progression and premature death
Authors: Lauseker Michael , Hasford Joerg , Saussele Susanne , Kremers Stephan , Kraemer Doris , Lindemann Walter , Hehlmann Rüdiger , Pfirrmann Markus ,   for the German CML Study Group
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Smoking is suspected to not only be a risk factor for chronic myeloid leukemia but an adverse prognostic factor for the disease as well. The objective of the current study was to investigate the impact of smoking on survival and progression to advanced phases of disease.

METHODS

Based on the data of the German CML Study IV, the authors analyzed the effect of smoking using a multivariate Cox model with the addition of the European Treatment and Outcome Study (EUTOS) long‐term survival score variables of age, spleen size, thrombocytes, and peripheral blasts as well as sex, comorbidities, and type of treatment center.

RESULTS

The 8‐year survival probability was 87% for a nonsmoking patient and 83% for a patient who smoked. The authors noted a 2.08‐times higher risk of death for smokers in comparison with nonsmokers and a 2.11‐times higher cause‐specific hazard of disease progression. An interaction between smoking and age was found in the model for survival. No significant difference with regard to molecular response was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Even when considering differences in socioeconomic status and lifestyle between patients who smoke and nonsmokers, the current analysis demonstrated that smoking also might affect disease biology. The results of the current study indicate that patients with chronic myeloid leukemia, in particular those aged <60 years, should be encouraged to quit smoking. Cancer 2017;123:2467–71. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Strong “bottom‐up” influences on small mammal populations: State‐space model analyses from long‐term studies
Authors: Flowerdew John R. , Amano Tatsuya , Sutherland William J.
Published: February 2017

“Bottom‐up” influences, that is, masting, plus population density and climate, commonly influence woodland rodent demography. However, “top‐down” influences (predation) also intervene. Here, we assess the impacts of masting, climate, and density on rodent populations placed in the context of what is known about “top‐down” influences. To explain between‐year variations in bank vole Myodes glareolus and wood mouse Apodemus sylvaticus population demography, we applied a state‐space model to 33 years of catch‐mark‐release live‐trapping, winter temperature, and precise mast‐collection data. Experimental mast additions aided interpretation. Rodent numbers in European ash Fraxinus excelsior woodland were estimated (May/June, November/December). December–March mean minimum daily temperature represented winter severity. Total marked adult mice/voles (and juveniles in May/June) provided density indices validated against a model‐generated population estimate; this allowed estimation of the structure of a time‐series model and the demographic impacts of the climatic/biological variables. During two winters of insignificant fruit‐fall, 6.79 g/m2 sterilized ash seed (as fruit) was distributed over an equivalent woodland similarly live‐trapped. September–March fruit‐fall strongly increased bank vole spring reproductive rate and winter and summer population growth rates; colder winters weakly reduced winter population growth. September–March fruit‐fall and warmer winters marginally increased wood mouse spring reproductive rate and September–December fruit‐fall weakly elevated summer population growth. Density dependence significantly reduced both species' population growth. Fruit‐fall impacts on demography still appeared after a year. Experimental ash fruit addition confirmed its positive influence on bank vole winter population growth with probable moderation by colder temperatures. The models show the strong impact of masting as a “bottom‐up” influence on rodent demography, emphasizing independent masting and weather influences; delayed effects of masting; and the importance of density dependence and its interaction with masting. We conclude that these rodents show strong “bottom‐up” and density‐dependent influences on demography moderated by winter temperature. “Top‐down” influences appear weak and need further investigation.
Surreptitious sympatry: Exploring the ecological and genetic separation of two sibling species
Authors: Cordes Line S. , O'Corry‐Crowe Gregory , Small Robert J.
Published: February 2017

Climate change is having profound impacts on animal populations, and shifts in geographic range are predicted in response. Shifts that result in range overlap between previously allopatric congeneric species may have consequences for biodiversity through interspecific competition, hybridization, and genetic introgression. Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) and spotted seals (Phoca largha) are parapatric sibling species and areas of co‐occurrence at the edges of their range, such as Bristol Bay, Alaska, offer a unique opportunity to explore ecological separation and discuss potential consequences of increased range overlap resulting from retreating sea ice. Using telemetry and genetic data from 14 harbor seals and six spotted seals, we explored the ecological and genetic separation of the two species by comparing their utilization distributions, distance from haul‐out, dive behavior (e.g., depth, duration, focus), and evidence of hybridization. Firstly, we show that harbor and spotted seals, which cannot be visually distinguished definitively in all cases, haul‐out together side by side in Bristol Bay from late summer to early winter. Secondly, we observed subtle rather than pronounced differences in ranging patterns and dive behavior during this period. Thirdly, most spotted seals in this study remained close to shore in contrast to what is known of the species in more northern areas, and lastly, we did not find any evidence of hybridization. The lack of distinct ecological separation in this area of sympatry suggests that interspecific competition could play an important role in the persistence of these species, particularly if range overlap will increase as a result of climate‐induced range shifts and loss of spotted seal pagophilic breeding habitat. Our results also highlight the added complexities in monitoring these species in areas of suspected overlap, as they cannot easily be distinguished without genetic analysis. Predicted climate‐induced environmental change will likely influence the spatial and temporal extent of overlap in these two sibling species. Ultimately, this may alter the balance between current isolating mechanisms with consequences for species integrity and fitness.
Preferential Methanation of CO using Halogen‐Doped (F, Cl, Br) Ceria‐Supported Nickel Catalysts
Authors: Konishcheva Margarita V. , Potemkin Dmitriy I. , Snytnikov Pavel V. , Pakharukova Vera P. , Sobyanin Vladimir A.
Published: February 2017

Halogen‐doped Ni(F)/CeO2, Ni(Cl)/CeO2, and Ni(Br)/CeO2 catalysts were prepared by treating halogen‐free Ni/CeO2 with aqueous solutions of NH4F, NH4Cl, and NH4Br, respectively. It was demonstrated that the halogen dopants had distinct effects on the catalyst properties for the CO preferential methanation using realistic reformate gas: fluorine did not change catalytic activity, chlorine inhibited CO2 methanation activity and provided high selectivity towards CO methanation, and bromine completely inhibited both the CO and CO2 methanation activity.
Screening of cadmium and copper phytoremediation ability of Tagetes erecta, using biochemical parameters and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis
Authors: Goswami Sunayana , Das Suchismita
Published: February 2017

Tagetes erecta thrived in phytotoxic levels of cadmium (Cd; 50–300 mg kg−1) and copper (Cu; 150–400 mg kg−1) for 21 d. It accumulated high metal contents in its above-ground tissues (3675 mg Cd kg−1 dry wt and 3948 mg Cu kg−1 dry wt) and showed greater root to shoot translocation and a high extraction coefficient, all of which pointed toward its potential as a hyperaccumulator. Both Cd stress and Cu stress reduced the plant biomass, foliar area, and number. In addition, there were significant declines in pigment contents as well as boosts in lipid peroxidation levels. However, the plant triggered a number of stress-mitigation strategies to abate reactive oxygen species formed as a result of Cd/Cu excess, mostly via significant augmentation of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase activities. Though the root and leaf anatomy revealed some signs of toxic symptoms at 50 mg Cd kg−1 and at 150 mg Cu kg−1, as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy, the root showed maximum tolerance, with tolerance indexes of 85.4% and 91.7%, respectively. Energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis showed specific Ca2+ signals in both root and stomata, which could be associated with a specific signaling pathway leading to increased root metal uptake and stomatal closure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:2533–2542. © 2017 SETAC
Gene‐based segregation method for identifying rare variants in family‐based sequencing studies
Authors: Qiao Dandi , Lange Christoph , Laird Nan M. , Won Sungho , Hersh Craig P. , Morrow Jarrett , Hobbs Brian D. , Lutz Sharon M. , Ruczinski Ingo , Beaty Terri H. , Silverman Edwin K. , Cho Michael H.
Published: February 2017

Whole‐exome sequencing using family data has identified rare coding variants in Mendelian diseases or complex diseases with Mendelian subtypes, using filters based on variant novelty, functionality, and segregation with the phenotype within families. However, formal statistical approaches are limited. We propose a gene‐based segregation test (GESE) that quantifies the uncertainty of the filtering approach. It is constructed using the probability of segregation events under the null hypothesis of Mendelian transmission. This test takes into account different degrees of relatedness in families, the number of functional rare variants in the gene, and their minor allele frequencies in the corresponding population. In addition, a weighted version of this test allows incorporating additional subject phenotypes to improve statistical power. We show via simulations that the GESE and weighted GESE tests maintain appropriate type I error rate, and have greater power than several commonly used region‐based methods. We apply our method to whole‐exome sequencing data from 49 extended pedigrees with severe, early‐onset chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the Boston Early‐Onset COPD study (BEOCOPD) and identify several promising candidate genes. Our proposed methods show great potential for identifying rare coding variants of large effect and high penetrance for family‐based sequencing data. The proposed tests are implemented in an R package that is available on CRAN (https://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/GESE/).
BACE1 regulates the proliferation and cellular functions of Schwann cells
Authors: Hu Xiangyou , Hou Hailong , Bastian Chinthasagar , He Wanxia , Qiu Shupeng , Ge Yingying , Yin Xinhua , Kidd Grahame J. , Brunet Sylvain , Trapp Bruce D. , Baltan Selva , Yan Riqiang
Published: February 2017

BACE1 is an indispensable enzyme for generating β‐amyloid peptides, which are excessively accumulated in brains of Alzheimer's patients. However, BACE1 is also required for proper myelination of peripheral nerves, as BACE1‐null mice display hypomyelination. To determine the precise effects of BACE1 on myelination, here we have uncovered a role of BACE1 in the control of Schwann cell proliferation during development. We demonstrate that BACE1 regulates the cleavage of Jagged‐1 and Delta‐1, two membrane‐bound ligands of Notch. BACE1 deficiency induces elevated Jag‐Notch signaling activity, which in turn facilitates proliferation of Schwann cells. This increase in proliferation leads to shortened internodes and decreased Schmidt–Lanterman incisures. Functionally, evoked compound action potentials in BACE1‐null nerves were significantly smaller and slower, with a clear decrease in excitability. BACE1‐null nerves failed to effectively use lactate as an alternative energy source under conditions of increased physiological activity. Correlatively, BACE1‐null mice showed reduced performance on rotarod tests. Collectively, our data suggest that BACE1 deficiency enhances proliferation of Schwann cell due to the elevated Jag1/Delta1‐Notch signaling, but fails to myelinate axons efficiently due to impaired the neuregulin1‐ErbB signaling, which has been documented.
Characterization of ferroptosis in murine models of hemochromatosis
Authors: Wang Hao , An Peng , Xie Enjun , Wu Qian , Fang Xuexian , Gao Hong , Zhang Zhuzhen , Li Yuzhu , Wang Xudong , Zhang Jiaying , Li Guoli , Yang Lei , Liu Wei , Min Junxia , Wang Fudi
Published: February 2017

Ferroptosis is a recently identified iron‐dependent form of nonapoptotic cell death implicated in brain, kidney, and heart pathology. However, the biological roles of iron and iron metabolism in ferroptosis remain poorly understood. Here, we studied the functional role of iron and iron metabolism in the pathogenesis of ferroptosis. We found that ferric citrate potently induces ferroptosis in murine primary hepatocytes and bone marrow–derived macrophages. Next, we screened for ferroptosis in mice fed a high‐iron diet and in mouse models of hereditary hemochromatosis with iron overload. We found that ferroptosis occurred in mice fed a high‐iron diet and in two knockout mouse lines that develop severe iron overload (Hjv–/–
and Smad4Alb/Alb
mice) but not in a third line that develops only mild iron overload (Hfe
–/– mice). Moreover, we found that iron overload–induced liver damage was rescued by the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin‐1. To identify the genes involved in iron‐induced ferroptosis, we performed microarray analyses of iron‐treated bone marrow–derived macrophages. Interestingly, solute carrier family 7, member 11 (Slc7a11), a known ferroptosis‐related gene, was significantly up‐regulated in iron‐treated cells compared with untreated cells. However, genetically deleting Slc7a11 expression was not sufficient to induce ferroptosis in mice. Next, we studied iron‐treated hepatocytes and bone marrow–derived macrophages isolated from Slc7a11–/–
mice fed a high‐iron diet. Conclusion: We found that iron treatment induced ferroptosis in Slc7a11–/–
cells, indicating that deleting Slc7a11 facilitates the onset of ferroptosis specifically under high‐iron conditions; these results provide compelling evidence that iron plays a key role in triggering Slc7a11‐mediated ferroptosis and suggest that ferroptosis may be a promising target for treating hemochromatosis‐related tissue damage. (Hepatology 2017;66:449–465).
Multicriteria assessment of water dynamics reveals subcatchment variability in a seemingly homogeneous tropical cloud forest catchment
Authors: Timbe Edison , Feyen Jan , Timbe Luis , Crespo Patricio , Célleri Rolando , Windhorst David , Frede Hans‐Georg , Breuer Lutz
Published: February 2017

To improve the current knowledge of the rainfall–runoff phenomena of tropical montane catchments, we explored the usefulness of several hydrological indicators on a nested cloud forest catchment (76.9 km2). The used metrics belong to 5 categories: baseflow mean transit time, physicochemical properties of stream water, land cover, topographic, and hydrometric parameters. We applied diverse statistical techniques for data analysis and to contrast findings. Multiple regression analysis showed that mean transit times of base flow could be efficiently predicted by sodium concentrations (higher during baseflows) and temperatures of stream water, indicating a major influence of geomorphology rather than topographic or land cover characteristics. Principal component analysis revealed that no specific subset of catchment indicators could be identified as prevailing descriptors for all catchments. The agglomerative hierarchical clustering analysis provided concomitant results, implying larger levels of dissimilarity between smaller subcatchments than between larger ones. Overall, results point out an intricate interdependence of diverse processes at surface and subsurface level indicating a high level of heterogeneity. Disregarding heterogeneity of nested or paired catchments could lead to incomplete or misleading conclusions, especially in tropical mountain regions where pronounced spatial and temporal gradients are present.
Association of ADIPOQ, leptin, LEPR, and resistin polymorphisms with obesity parameters in Hammam Sousse Sahloul Heart Study
Authors: Zayani Nesrine , Omezzine Asma , Boumaiza Imen , Achour Ons , Rebhi Lamia , Rejeb Jihen , Ben Rejeb Nabila , Ben Abdelaziz Ahmed , Bouslama Ali
Published: February 2017

Background

Adipose tissue is an important endocrine organ that secretes a number of adipokines, such as adiponectin (ADIPOQ), leptin (LEP), leptin receptor (LEPR), and resistin (RETN) which may be implicated in obesity. Some adipokines’ polymorphisms of genes might influence their concentrations and/or activities. Our aim was to study the relationship between seven SNPs in ADIPOQ (+45T<G (rs2241766); +276G<T (rs1501299); −4255C<T (rs822393); −395G<T (rs17366568)), LEP (2548G<A (rs7799039)), LEPR (223Q<R (rs1137101)), and RETN (‐420C<G (rs1862513)) and obesity in Hammam Sousse Sahloul Heart Study (HSHS).

Methods

The study, carried out between February and June 2009, is mainly focused on 1121 respondents in HSHS which is a population‐based epidemiological study of type “community‐based” on cardiovascular risk. Genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP). Serum lipids and anthropometric parameters were measured. Statistic analysis was performed on SPSSv19.

Results

The polymorphisms of ADIPOQ 4522C<T and 276G<T, LEP 2548G<A, and RETN 420C<G seem to contribute to obesity. In fact, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of obesity associated with mutated genotypes of each polymorphism were respectively OR=1.38, P=.037; OR=0.608, P<.001; OR=2.23, P=.034; and OR=2.18, P<.001. The 276G<T, 4522C<T, and 420C<G were associated with increased BMI (P=.010, P=.028, and P<.001). A significant association was found between the 276G<T; 4522C<T, LEP 2548G<A and 420C<G, and the waist circumference and hip measurements.

Conclusion

ADIPOQ, LEP, and RETN gene polymorphisms were associated with obesity parameters in HSHS population.
THE RHETORICAL USE OF RANDOM SAMPLING: CRAFTING AND COMMUNICATING THE PUBLIC IMAGE OF POLLS AS A SCIENCE (1935–1948)
Authors: LUSINCHI DOMINIC
Published: February 2017

The scientific pollsters (Archibald Crossley, George H. Gallup, and Elmo Roper) emerged onto the American news media scene in 1935. Much of what they did in the following years (1935–1948) was to promote both the political and scientific legitimacy of their enterprise. They sought to be recognized as the sole legitimate producers of public opinion. In this essay I examine the, mostly overlooked, rhetorical work deployed by the pollsters to publicize the scientific credentials of their polling activities, and the central role the concept of sampling has had in that pursuit. First, they distanced themselves from the failed straw poll by claiming that their sampling methodology based on quotas was informed by science. Second, although in practice they did not use random sampling, they relied on it rhetorically to derive the symbolic benefits of being associated with the “laws of probability.”
Roasting conditions for preserving cocoa flavan‐3‐ol monomers and oligomers: interesting behaviour of Criollo clones
Authors: De Taeye Cédric , Bodart Marie , Caullet Gilles , Collin Sonia
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Cocoa bean roasting is important for creating the typical chocolate aroma through Maillard reactions, but it is also a key step deleterious to the polyphenol content and profile.

RESULTS

Compared with usual roasting at 150 °C, keeping the beans for 30 min at 120 °C or for 1 h at 90 °C proved much better for preventing strong degradation of native P1, P2 and P3 flavan‐3‐ols in cocoa (shown for Forastero, Trinitatio and Criollo cultivars). Surprisingly, Cuban, Mexican and Malagasy white‐seeded beans behaved atypically when roasted for 30 min at 150 °C, releasing a pool of catechin. Enantiomeric chromatographic separation proved that this pool contained mainly (−)‐catechin issued from (−)‐epicatechin by epimerisation. As the (−)‐epicatechin content remained relatively constant through Criollo bean roasting, flavan‐3‐ol monomers must have been regenerated from oligomers. This emergence of (−)‐catechin in Criollo beans only, reported here for the first time, could be due to increased flavan‐3‐ol monomer stability in the absence of anthocyanidin‐derived products.

CONCLUSION

The degradation rate of flavan‐3‐ols through roasting is higher in cocoa beans containing anthocyani(di)ns. The liberation of a pool of (−)‐catechin when submitted to roasting at 150 °C allows to distinguish white‐seeded cultivars. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of high voltage atmospheric cold plasma on white grape juice quality
Authors: Pankaj Shashi Kishor , Wan Zifan , Colonna William , Keener Kevin M
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

This study focuses on the effects of novel, non‐thermal high voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP) processing on the quality of grape juice. A quality‐based comparison of cold plasma treatment with thermal pasteurization treatment of white grape juice was done.

RESULTS

HVACP treatment of grape juice at 80 kV for 4 min resulted in a 7.4 log10 CFU mL−1 reduction in Saccharomyces cerevisiae without any significant (P > 0.05) change in pH, acidity and electrical conductivity of the juice. An increase in non‐enzymatic browning was observed, but total color difference was very low and within acceptable limits. Spectrophotometric measurements showed a decrease in total phenolics, total flavonoids, DPPH free radical scavenging and antioxidant capacity, but they were found to be comparable to those resulting from thermal pasteurization. An increase in total flavonols was observed after HVACP treatments.

CONCLUSION

HVACP treatment of white grape juice at 80 kV for 2 min was found to be comparable to thermal pasteurization in all analyzed quality attributes. HVACP has shown the potential to be used as an alternative to thermal treatment of white grape juice. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Huge hepatocellular carcinoma greater than 10 cm in diameter worsens prognosis by causing distant recurrence after curative resection
Authors: Wakayama Kenji , Kamiyama Toshiya , Yokoo Hideki , Orimo Tatsuya , Shimada Shingo , Einama Takahiro , Kamachi Hirofumi , Taketomi Akinobu
Published: February 2017

Background and Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of huge (≥10 cm) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to the recurrence pattern and the prognosis after hepatectomy.

Methods

574 patients who underwent hepatectomy by 17 surgeons (Open 536 and Laparoscopic 38) for HCC without major vascular invasion from 1990 to 2013 at single institute were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Huge tumor, age, HCV, multiple tumors and microscopic portal invasion are independent risk factors for overall survival (OS), and huge tumor, ICGR15 ≥16%, multiple tumors, moderate/poor histology, microscopic portal invasion and a positive pathological margin are risk factors for relapse‐free survival (RFS). The 5‐year OS and RFS of patients with huge HCC (n = 53) (42.9 and 14.2%) were significantly worse than those of patients with HCC <10 cm (n = 521) (71.3 and 33.1%). Huge tumor is an independent risk factor for initial extra‐hepatic recurrence (Hazard ratio 7.86, P < 0.0001). The 5‐year OS of patients with initial extra‐hepatic recurrence (n = 55) was significantly worse than patients with intra‐hepatic recurrence (n = 338) (16.8 vs. 50.5%).

Conclusions

Huge HCC (≥10 cm) is an independent risk factor due to a high risk for initial extra‐hepatic recurrence. Future systemic adjuvant therapy is needed for these patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:324–329. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of microcystins using high‐performance liquid chromatography and magnetic solid‐phase extraction with silica‐coated magnetite with cetylpyridinium chloride
Authors: Li Qiuying , Lian Lili , Wang Xiyue , Wang Runnan , Tian Yuanyuan , Guo Xiaoyang , Lou Dawei
Published: February 2017

Microcystins (MCs), produced by freshwater cyanobacteria, can be serious water pollutants, so it is important to monitor their concentration in drinking water. We have developed a method for rapid and accurate determination of microcystin levels in environmental water, using magnetic solid‐phase extraction and high‐performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. The magnetic composite material, which was combined with cetylpyridinium chloride, was prepared by hydrothermal synthesis. The optimal extraction of microcystins in water sample was achieved by optimizing the amount of adsorbent, time of adsorption, ratio of eluting solvent, and volume of eluent. Under the optimal conditions, the limit of detection of MC‐LR was 0.001 μg/L, and the limit of quantification was 0.0028 μg/L. The limit of detection of MC‐RR was 0.001 μg/L, and the limit of quantification was 0.003 μg/L. These values are far lower than those established by the International Health Organization for the maximum concentration of microcystins in drinking water. The magnetic solid‐phase extraction adsorbent used in this method has the advantages of simple preparation, low price, and easy solid–liquid separation, and it can be used for the rapid and sensitive monitoring of trace microcystins in environmental water samples.
Illustrating the Power of fsQCA in Explaining Paradoxical Consumer Environmental Orientations
Authors: Schmitt Ann Kristin , Grawe Andreas , Woodside Arch G.
Published: February 2017

Prior research on proenvironmental and prosocial behavior focuses primarily on explaining consistent rather than paradoxical tendencies. Even though this field receives wide attention from different scientific disciplines, findings for many causal factors of such proenvironmental orientation are contradictory. Nevertheless, knowing who those individuals are who think and behave in a pro‐/antienvironmental way or show a paradoxical behavior in this regard becomes useful for many different parties in human societies including public policy makers, governmental and nongovernmental environmental protection organizations, and for‐profit firms. Therefore, this study identifies those individuals who show neither consistent proenvironmental nor consistent antienvironmental tendencies as the “walkers‐only” and “talkers‐only” (i.e., for short, “walkers” and “talkers”). The former are defined as persons who put much effort into the recycling of waste materials but do not support pollution standards, whereas the latter term describes individuals who have a strong opinion with regard to the support of pollution standards yet do not engage in recycling efforts. The present study reports evidence of the existence of walkers and talkers. Further, this research is the first study to employ “fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis” to identify the complex antecedent conditions for some individuals’ paradoxical belief–behaviors in the field of socially and environmentally directed behaviors and orientations. The findings yield valuable insights both into the applicability and benefits of configural analysis and for public policy makers and managers in waste management and recycling industries.
Investigation of Tacticity and Living Characteristics of Photoredox‐Mediated Metal‐Free Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization
Authors: Pascual Laura M. M. , Goetz Adam E. , Roehrich Adrienne M. , Boydston Andrew J.
Published: February 2017

This study investigated the microstructures of polymers produced via photoredox‐mediated metal‐free ring‐opening metathesis polymerization. Polynorbornene, poly(exo‐dihydrodicyclopentadiene), and poly(endo‐dicyclopentadiene) were found to have cis olefin contents of 23%, 24%, and 28%, respectively. Additionally, the cis/trans ratio remained consistent during the course of norbornene polymerization. Polymer tacticity was evaluated by quantitative 13C NMR spectroscopy, which revealed each polymer to be largely atactic. Specifically, the three polymers were estimated to be 33%, 58%, and 55% syndiotactic, respectively. In parallel, this study also explored the ability to produce diblock copolymers from norbornene and exo‐dihydrodicyclopentadiene. Successful diblock copolymerization was achieved using either monomer order. In each case, however, the results suggested to us that chain–chain coupling (increased molecular weight) and irreversible termination (dead chains observed during attempted chain extension) occurred when reaction times were extended.

image
Non‐invasive evaluation of blood oxygen saturation and hematocrit from T1 and T2 relaxation times: In‐vitro validation in fetal blood
Authors: Portnoy Sharon , Seed Mike , Sled John G. , Macgowan Christopher K.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

We propose an analytical method for calculating blood hematocrit (Hct) and oxygen saturation (sO2) from measurements of its T1 and T2 relaxation times.

Theory

Through algebraic substitution, established two‐compartment relationships describing
and
as a function of hematocrit and oxygen saturation were rearranged to solve for Hct and sO2 in terms of R1 and R2. Resulting solutions for Hct and sO2 are the roots of cubic polynomials.

Methods

Feasibility of the method was established by comparison of Hct and sO2 estimates obtained from relaxometry measurements (at 1.5 Tesla) in cord blood specimens to ground‐truth values obtained by blood gas analysis. Monte Carlo simulations were also conducted to assess the effect of T1, T2 measurement uncertainty on precision of Hct and sO2 estimates.

Results

Good agreement was observed between estimated and ground‐truth blood properties (bias = 0.01; 95% limits of agreement = ±0.13 for Hct and sO2). Considering the combined effects of biological variability and random measurement noise, we estimate a typical uncertainty of ±0.1 for Hct, sO2 estimates.

Conclusion

Results demonstrate accurate quantification of Hct and sO2 from T1 and T2. This method is applicable to noninvasive fetal vessel oximetry—an application where existing oximetry devices are unusable or require risky blood‐sampling procedures. Magn Reson Med 78:2352–2359, 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Molecular classification of urothelial carcinoma: global mRNA classification versus tumour‐cell phenotype classification
Authors: Sjödahl Gottfrid , Eriksson Pontus , Liedberg Fredrik , Höglund Mattias
Published: February 2017

Global mRNA expression analysis is efficient for phenotypic profiling of tumours, and has been used to define molecular subtypes for almost every major tumour type. A key limitation is that most tumours are communities of both tumour and non‐tumour cells. This problem is particularly pertinent for analysis of advanced invasive tumours, which are known to induce major changes and responses in both the tumour and the surrounding tissue. To identify bladder cancer tumour‐cell phenotypes and compare classification by tumour‐cell phenotype with classification by global gene expression analysis, we analysed 307 advanced bladder cancers (cystectomized) both by genome gene expression analysis and by immunohistochemistry with antibodies for 28 proteins. According to systematic analysis of gene and protein expression data, focusing on key molecular processes, we describe five tumour‐cell phenotypes of advanced urothelial carcinoma: urothelial‐like, genomically unstable, basal/SCC‐like, mesenchymal‐like, and small‐cell/neuroendocrine‐like. We provide molecular pathological definitions for each subtype. Tumours expressing urothelial differentiation factors show inconsistent and abnormal protein expression of terminal differentiation markers, suggesting pseudo‐differentiation. Cancers with different tumour‐cell phenotypes may co‐cluster (converge), and cases with identical tumour‐cell phenotypes may cluster apart (diverge), in global mRNA analyses. This divergence/convergence suggests that broad global commonalities related to the invasive process may exist between muscle‐invasive tumours regardless of specific tumour‐cell phenotype. Hence, there is a systematic disagreement in subtype classification determined by global mRNA profiling and by immunohistochemical profiling at the tumour‐cell level. We suggest that a combination of molecular pathology (tumour‐cell phenotype) and global mRNA profiling (context) is required for adequate subtype classification of muscle‐invasive bladder cancer. © 2017 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Critical buckling load optimization of functionally graded carbon nanotube‐reinforced laminated composite quadrilateral plates
Authors: Setoodeh A.R. , Shojaee M.
Published: February 2017

The effective method of transformed differential quadrature (TDQ) is improved for the buckling design optimization of functionally graded (FG) carbon nanotube‐reinforced laminated composite quadrilateral (FG‐CNTRCQ) plates with arbitrary straight‐sided based on the first‐order shear deformation theory. The laminated plates with both uniformly and FG distributions of single‐walled carbon nanotubes varied along the thickness of layers are considered. The TDQ method is used to directly discretize the governing differential equations for an arbitrary straight‐sided physical domain without any need to transform the equations to the computational domain. In the presented genetic algorithm, the orientation of fibers is considered as the design parameter to obtain the optimum critical buckling loads in terms of different parameters including distributions of the fibers, number of layers, stacking sequence, CNTs volume fraction, geometrical parameters, and boundary conditions. The edges of the plates can take arbitrary end supports of simply and clamped boundary conditions. The formulation is developed based on the invariant terms to provide a systematic procedure with minimum computational cost. Some parametric studies are conducted to examine the effectiveness of the model for the design purpose of the FG‐CNTRCQ plates. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E853–E868, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers