bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of locus specific sub‐clone separation by fluorescence in situ hybridization in suspension in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Do Cuc H. , Bailey Sheree , Macardle Cindy , Thurgood Lauren A. , Lower Karen M. , Kuss Bryone J.
Published: October 2017

Intra‐tumor genetic heterogeneity is a hallmark of cancer. The ability to monitor and analyze these sub‐clonal cell populations can be considered key to successful treatment, particularly in the modern era of targeted therapies. Although advances in sequencing technologies have significantly improved our ability to analyze the mutational landscape of tumors, this utility is reduced when considering small, but clinically significant sub‐clones, that is, those representing <10% of the tumor burden. We have developed a high‐throughput method that utilizes a 17‐probe labeled bacterial artificial chromosome contig to quantify sub‐clonal populations of cells based on deletion of a single locus. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells harboring deletion of the short arm of chromosome 17 (del17p), an important prognostic marker for CLL were used to demonstrate the technique. Sub‐clones of del17p cells were quantified and isolated from heterogeneous CLL populations using fluorescence in situ hybridization in suspension (FISH‐IS) and the locus specific probe set. Using the combination of FISH‐IS with the locus‐specific probe set enables automated analysis of tens of thousands of cells, accurately quantifying and isolating cells carrying a del17p. Based on the fluorescence intensity of 17p probes, 17p (TP53) deleted cells were identified and sorted using flow cytometric techniques, and enrichment was demonstrated using single nucleotide polymorphism analysis. The ability to separate sub‐clones of cells based on genetic heterogeneity, independent of the clone size, highlights the potential application of this method not only in the diagnostic and prognostic setting, but also as an unbiased approach to enable further detailed genetic analysis of the sub‐clone with deep sequencing approaches. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Short‐term cytokine stimulation reveals regulatory T cells with down‐regulated Foxp3 expression in human peripheral blood
Authors: Tabares Paula , Berr Susanne , Langenhorst Daniela , Sawitzki Birgit , ten Berge Ineke , Tony Hans‐Peter , Hünig Thomas
Published: October 2017

The identification of regulatory T cells (Treg cells) in human peripheral blood is an important tool in diagnosis, research, and therapeutic intervention. As compared to lymphoid tissues, the frequencies of circulating Treg cells identified as CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ are, however, low. We here show that many of these cells remain undetected due to transient down regulation of Foxp3, which rapidly decays in the absence of cytokine‐mediated STAT5 signals. Short‐term incubation of PBMCs or isolated CD4+ T cells, but not of lymph node cells, with IL‐2, ‐7, or ‐15 more than doubles the frequency of Foxp3+CD25+ among CD4+ T cells detectable by flow cytometry. This increase is not due to cell division but to upregulation of both proteins. At the same time, the uncovered Treg cells up‐regulate CD25 and down‐regulate CD127, making them accessible to viable cell sorting. “Latent” Treg cells have a demethylated FOXP3 TSDR sequence, are enriched in naïve, non‐cycling cells, and are functional. The confirmation of our findings in RA and SLE patients shows the feasibility of uncovering latent Treg cells for immune monitoring in clinical settings. Finally, our results suggest that unmasking of latent Treg cells contributes to the increase in circulating CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ cells reported in IL‐2 treated patients.
Synthesis of 2‐(1,2,3‐Triazolyl)benzamide Derivatives by a Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Multicomponent Reaction
Authors: Hayeebueraheng Abdulhakim , Kaewmee Benyapa , Rukachaisirikul Vatcharin , Kaeobamrung Juthanat
Published: October 2017

The copper‐catalyzed multicomponent reaction of 2‐iodobenzamides, NaN3, and terminal alkynes for the synthesis of 2‐(1,2,3‐triazolyl)benzamide derivatives was achieved in a one‐step process over a short period of time under mild conditions. The transformation involved a C(aryl)–N bond formation process followed by an azide–alkyne cycloadditon reaction. The absence of external base was crucial for the preferred reaction pathway to occur.
γ‐Aminobutyric acid (GABA) oral rinse reduces capsaicin‐induced burning mouth pain sensation: An experimental quantitative sensory testing study in healthy subjects
Authors: Zhang Y. , Wang K. , Arendt‐Nielsen L. , Cairns B.E.
Published: October 2017

Background

In burning mouth patients, analgesia after oral administration of clonazepam may result from modulation of peripheral γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors.

Methods

The effect of oral administration of test solutions (water, 0.5 mol/L or 0.05 mol/L GABA, 1% lidocaine) was investigated for the amelioration of pain and sensitivity induced by application of capsaicin (1%, 2 min) to the tongue of thirty healthy male and female subjects in this four‐session, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blinded, cross‐over study. Intra‐oral quantitative sensory testing was used to assess cold (CDT), warm (WDT) and mechanical (MDT) detection thresholds as well as mechanical (MPT) and heat (HPT) pain thresholds. Capsaicin‐induced pain intensity was continuously rated on a 0–10 electronic visual analogue scale (VAS). The area under the VAS curve (VASAUC) after rinsing was calculated for each solution.

Results

Capsaicin application on the tongue evoked burning pain with a peak of 4.8/10, and significantly increased CDT and MDT while significantly decreasing WDT, HPT, and MPT. The VASAUC was significantly smaller after oral rinse with 0.05 mol/L GABA, 0.5 mol/L GABA, and 1% lidocaine than after oral rinse with water. Rinse with 0.5 mol/L or 0.05 mol/L GABA were similarly effective in decreasing VASAUC. Rinsing with either 1% lidocaine, 0.5 mol/L or 0.05 mol/L GABA also significantly attenuated the effects of capsaicin on WDT and HPT in a treatment independent manner. There were no sex‐related differences in these effects of GABA.

Conclusions

Capsaicin‐induced burning tongue pain and decreases in WDT and HPT can be ameliorated by rinsing the mouth with lidocaine and GABA solutions.

Significance

Rinsing the mouth with an oral GABA containing solution ameliorated burning pain and increased heat sensitivity produced by application of capsaicin to the tongue. This finding suggests that GABA can act as a local analgesic agent in the oral cavity.
Evaluating the Stability of Test Score Means for the TOEIC® Speaking and Writing Tests
Authors: Qu Yanxuan , Huo Yan , Chan Eric , Shotts Matthew
Published: October 2017

For educational tests, it is critical to maintain consistency of score scales and to understand the sources of variation in score means over time. This practice helps to ensure that interpretations about test takers' abilities are comparable from one administration (or one form) to another. This study examines the consistency of reported scores for the TOEIC® Speaking and Writing tests using statistical procedures. Specifically, the stability of the TOEIC Speaking score means from 431 forms administered in a 3‐year period was evaluated using harmonic regression, and the stability of TOEIC Writing score means from 66 forms administered in a 3‐year period was evaluated using analysis of variance. Results indicated that the fluctuations in the TOEIC Speaking or Writing score means mainly reflect changes in test takers' overall English speaking or writing ability levels instead of score inaccuracies. For both speaking and writing test scores, a large proportion of the variation in score means can be explained by seasonality (the rise or fall of score means associated with specific times of the year) and test takers' demographic information, which have been shown to be related to test‐taker ability. As a result, this finding provides evidence for the consistency of the TOEIC Speaking and Writing score scales across forms.
Articulating and Evaluating Validity Arguments for the TOEIC® Tests
Authors: Schmidgall Jonathan E.
Published: October 2017

This report provides a brief overview of how the TOEIC® program has adopted an argument‐based approach to validity in order to support the use of the TOEIC tests. This approach emphasizes the need to explicitly state claims about the measurement quality and intended use of a test and to support those claims with evidence. This report briefly summarizes how the assessment use argument (AUA) exemplifies this approach and was used to construct validity arguments for the TOEIC tests. After highlighting the practical applications of the validity arguments that were constructed, it highlights challenges associated with this work and proposes several extensions. Overall, this process demonstrates how TOEIC research takes a broad, critical, and rigorous approach to support the use of the TOEIC tests.
Sox8 and Sox10 jointly maintain myelin gene expression in oligodendrocytes
Authors: Turnescu Tanja , Arter Juliane , Reiprich Simone , Tamm Ernst R. , Waisman Ari , Wegner Michael
Published: October 2017

In Schwann cells of the vertebrate peripheral nervous system, induction of myelination and myelin maintenance both depend on the HMG‐domain‐containing transcription factor Sox10. In oligodendrocytes of the central nervous system, Sox10 is also essential for the induction of myelination. Its role in late phases of myelination and myelin maintenance has not been studied so far. Here, we show that these processes are largely unaffected in mice that lack Sox10 in mature oligodendrocytes. As Sox10 is co‐expressed with the related Sox8, we also analyzed oligodendrocytes and myelination in Sox8‐deficient mice. Again, we could not detect any major abnormalities. Expression of many myelin genes was only modestly reduced in both mouse mutants. Dramatic reductions in expression levels and phenotypic disturbances became only apparent once Sox8 and Sox10 were both absent. This argues that Sox8 and Sox10 are jointly required for myelin maintenance and impact myelin gene expression. One direct target gene of both Sox proteins is the late myelin gene Mog. Our results point to at least partial functional redundancy between both related Sox proteins in mature oligodendrocytes and are the first report of a substantial function of Sox8 in the oligodendroglial lineage.
Familial clustering of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma in the Utah population
Authors: Monroe Marcus M. , Hashibe Mia , Orb Quinn , Alt Jeremiah , Buchmann Luke , Hunt Jason , Cannon‐Albright Lisa A.
Published: October 2017

Background

The main purpose of the current study was to define the familial aggregation of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and risk to relatives of patients with oropharyngeal SCC.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study utilizing linked population‐based genealogy and state cancer registry databases between 1966 and 2012. Relative risks for oropharyngeal SCC and other malignancies among patients with oropharyngeal SCC and their relatives were estimated.

Results

Significant excess pairwise relatedness was observed for oropharyngeal SCC diagnosed before age 65 years. Significant excess risk for oropharyngeal SCC was observed for first‐degree relatives of patients. Relatives of oropharyngeal SCC patients also demonstrated elevated rates of multiple other malignancies, including both lung and cervical cancers.

Conclusion

Relatives of patients with oropharyngeal SCC display elevated risks of oropharyngeal, lung, and cervical cancers among others, suggesting a possible shared genetic etiology involving tobacco‐related and human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related malignancies.
Boundary‐spanning actors in complex adaptive governance systems: The case of multisectoral nutrition
Authors: Pelletier David , Gervais Suzanne , Hafeez‐ur‐Rehman Hajra , Sanou Dia , Tumwine Jackson
Published: October 2017

A growing literature highlights complexity of policy implementation and governance in global health and argues that the processes and outcomes of policies could be improved by explicitly taking this complexity into account. Yet there is a paucity of studies exploring how this can be achieved in everyday practice. This study documents the strategies, tactics, and challenges of boundary‐spanning actors working in 4 Sub‐Saharan Africa countries who supported the implementation of multisectoral nutrition as part of the African Nutrition Security Partnership in Burkina Faso, Mali, Ethiopia, and Uganda. Three action researchers were posted to these countries during the final 2 years of the project to help the government and its partners implement multisectoral nutrition and document the lessons. Prospective data were collected through participant observation, end‐line semistructured interviews, and document analysis. All 4 countries made significant progress despite a wide range of challenges at the individual, organizational, and system levels. The boundary‐spanning actors and their collaborators deployed a wide range of strategies but faced significant challenges in playing these unconventional roles. The study concludes that, under the right conditions, intentional boundary spanning can be a feasible and acceptable practice within a multisectoral, complex adaptive system in low‐ and middle‐income countries.
Spatial distribution and temporal trends of rainfall and erosivity in the Eastern Africa region
Authors: Fenta Ayele Almaw , Yasuda Hiroshi , Shimizu Katsuyuki , Haregeweyn Nigussie , Kawai Takayuki , Sultan Dagnenet , Ebabu Kindiye , Belay Ashebir Sewale
Published: October 2017

Soil erosion by water is one of the main environmental concerns in the drought‐prone Eastern Africa region. Understanding factors such as rainfall and erosivity is therefore of utmost importance for soil erosion risk assessment and soil and water conservation planning. In this study, we evaluated the spatial distribution and temporal trends of rainfall and erosivity for the Eastern Africa region during the period 1981–2016. The precipitation concentration index, seasonality index, and modified Fournier index have been analysed using 5 × 5‐km resolution multisource rainfall product (Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Stations). The mean annual rainfall of the region was 810 mm ranging from less than 300 mm in the lowland areas to over 1,200 mm in the highlands being influenced by orography of the Eastern Africa region. The precipitation concentration index and seasonality index revealed a spatial pattern of rainfall seasonality dependent on latitude, with a more pronounced seasonality as we go far from the equator. The modified Fournier index showed high spatial variability with about 55% of the region subject to high to very high rainfall erosivity. The mean annual R‐factor in the study region was calculated at 3,246 ± 1,895 MJ mm ha−1 h−1 yr−1, implying a potentially high water erosion risk in the region. Moreover, both increasing and decreasing trends of annual rainfall and erosivity were observed but spatial variability of these trends was high. This study offers useful information for better soil erosion prediction as well as can support policy development to achieve sustainable regional environmental planning and management of soil and water resources.
Liver diseases in Adult Life after Childhood Cancer in Scandinavia (ALiCCS): A population‐based cohort study of 32,839 one‐year survivors
Authors: Bonnesen Trine Gade , Winther Jeanette F. , Andersen Klaus K. , Asdahl Peter H. , de Fine Licht Sofie , Gudmundsdottir Thorgerdur , Sällfors Holmqvist Anna , Madanat‐Harjuoja Laura‐Maria , Tryggvadottir Laufey , Wesenberg Finn , Heilmann Carsten , Olsen Jørgen H. , Hasle Henrik ,   ALiCCS study group
Published: October 2017

Information on late onset liver complications after childhood cancer is scarce. To ensure an appropriate follow‐up of childhood cancer survivors and reducing late liver complications, the need for comprehensive and accurate information is presented. We evaluate the risk of liver diseases in a large childhood cancer survivor cohort. We included all 1‐year survivors of childhood cancer treated in the five Nordic countries. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate hospitalisation rate (hazard) ratios (HRs) for each liver outcome according to type of cancer. We used the risk among survivors of central nervous system tumour as internal reference. With a median follow‐up time of 10 years, 659 (2%) survivors had been hospitalised at least once for a liver disease. The risk for hospitalisation for any liver disease was high after hepatic tumour (HR = 6.9) and leukaemia (HR = 1.7). The Danish sub‐cohort of leukaemia treated with haematopoietic stem cell transplantation had a substantially higher risk for hospitalisation for all liver diseases combined (HR = 3.8). Viral hepatitis accounted for 286 of 659 hospitalisations corresponding to 43% of all survivors hospitalised for liver disease. The 20‐year cumulative risk of viral hepatitis was 1.8% for survivors diagnosed with cancer before 1990 but only 0.3% for those diagnosed after 1990. The risk of liver disease was low but significantly increased among survivors of hepatic tumours and leukaemia. Further studies with focus on the different treatment modalities are needed to further strengthen the prevention of treatment‐induced late liver complications.
Difference of lower airway microbiome in bilateral protected specimen brush between lung cancer patients with unilateral lobar masses and control subjects
Authors: Liu Hai‐Xia , Tao Li‐Li , Zhang Jing , Zhu Ying‐Gang , Zheng Yu , Liu Dong , Zhou Min , Ke Hui , Shi Meng‐Meng , Qu Jie‐Ming
Published: October 2017

The functional role of respiratory microbiota has attracted an accumulating attention recently. However, the role of respiratory microbiome in lung carcinogenesis is mostly unknown. Our study aimed to characterize and compare bilateral lower airway microbiome of lung cancer patients with unilateral lobar masses and control subjects. Protected bronchial specimen brushing samples were collected from 24 lung cancer patients with unilateral lobar masses (paired samples from cancerous site and the contralateral noncancerous site) and 18 healthy controls undergoing bronchoscopies and further analyzed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. As results, significant decreases in microbial diversity were observed in patients with lung cancer in comparison to the controls, alpha diversity steadily declined from healthy site to noncancerous to cancerous site. Genus Streptococcus was significantly more abundant in cancer cases than the controls, while Staphylococcus was more abundant in the controls. The area under the curve of genus Streptococcus used to predict lung cancer was 0.693 (sensitivity = 87.5%, specificity = 55.6%). The abundance of genus Streptococcus and Neisseria displayed an increasing trend whereas Staphylococcus and Dialister gradually declined from healthy to noncancerous to cancerous site. Collectively, lung cancer‐associated microbiota profile is distinct from that found in healthy controls, and the altered cancer‐associated microbiota is not restricted to tumor tissue. The genus Streptococcus was abundant in lung cancer patients and exhibited moderate classification potential. The gradual microbiota profile shift from healthy site to noncancerous to paired cancerous site suggested a change of the microenvironment associated with the development of lung cancer.
Economics blogs sentiment and asset prices
Authors: Farina Vincenzo , Parisi Antonio , Pomante Ugo
Published: October 2017

One of the most important research streams in finance is to understand the determinants of stock market dynamics. Using a large amount of linguistic data regarding 960,808 posts during a 5‐year time period (from March 1, 2008, to August 31, 2013), we develop an economics blogs pessimism indicator (considered as a proxy for either investor sentiment or risk aversion), and we show its validity to build performing trading strategies.
Retracted: MicroRNA‐29a inhibits proliferation and motility of schwannoma cells by targeting CDK6
Authors: Ma Ji , Li Tengfei , Yuan Huifeng , Han Xinwei , Shui Shaofeng , Guo Dong , Yan Lei
Published: October 2017

MicroRNA‐29 (miR‐29) family is involved in various types of cancer regulation. Although miR‐29 family was shown to play an inhibitory role in tumorigenesis, the effect of miR‐29a expression on schwannoma cells still remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to explore the role of miR‐29 family in schwannoma. The expressions of miR‐29a, miR‐29b, and miR‐29c were detected in the Schwann tissues and cell lines using qRT‐PCR. The effect of miR‐29a, miR‐29b, and miR‐29c on cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis was tested. Then, the regulatory relationship between miR‐29a and CKD6 was detected using qRT‐PCR, Western blot, and luciferase assay. Finally, the phosphorylation levels of mainly factors in JNK and p38MAPK/ERK pathways were analyzed by Western blot. The expression of miR‐29a, miR‐29b, and miR‐29c was downregulated in Schwann tissues and cell lines. Cell viability, migration, invasion were decreased, while apoptosis was increased when miR‐29a, miR‐29b, and miR‐29c overexpression. We further found that miR‐29a negatively regulated expression of CDK6. Then, knockdown of miR‐29a promoted cell viability, migration, invasion, and inhibited apoptosis in schwannoma cells by upregulating CDK6 expression. In addition, the overexpression of miR‐29a downregulated CDK6 expression by deactivation of JNK and p38MAPK/ERK pathways. Our data suggested that miR‐29a could play an important role in inhibiting proliferation and motility of cancerous Schwann cells, and may suppress tumor growth through upregulation of CDK6.
Bioavailability of S(+)‐Ketoprofen After Oral Administration of Different Mixtures of Ketoprofen Enantiomers to Dogs
Authors: García M. Luisa , Tost Digna , Vilageliu Jaume , López Sergi , Carganico Germano , Mauleón David
Published: October 2017

Recent reports have disagreed on whether the bioavailability of S(+)‐ketoprofen is affected by the presence of R(−)‐ketoprofen. To examine this directly, we designed a randomized crossover study in beagle dogs. [14C]‐ S(+)‐ketoprofen trometamol and R(−)‐ketoprofen trometamol were administered in the following percentage ratios: A, 99:1; B, 95:5; C, 90:10; D, 70:30; E, 50:50. Treatments were administered as a single oral dose of 1 mg/kg trometamol salt. Each of eight dogs received all five combinations in random order with a 1‐week washout period between doses. Blood samples were taken before drug administration and at regular intervals for 240 min after dosing. A progressive increase in the plasma concentration of [14C]‐S(+)‐ketoprofen was observed on going from treatment E (lowest dose of S‐enantiomer) to treatments containing the highest doses of (14C]‐S(+)‐ketoprofen. When the pharmacokinetic calculations were normalized to the dose of (14C]‐S(+)‐ketoprofen, we found no statistically significant differences among the normalized AUC and Cmax values of the five treatments. Therefore, S(+)‐ketoprofen absorption was linear and was not influenced by the presence of R(−)‐ketoprofen. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in tmax values among treatments, indicating that the rate of S(+)‐ketoprofen absorption was also unaffected by the presence of R(−)‐ketoprofen.
Clinical Comparison of Dexketoprofen Trometamol, Ketoprofen, and Placebo in Dental Pain
Authors: McGurk Mark , Robinson Paul , Rajayogeswaran Vairavapillai , De Luca Massimo , Casini Alessandro , Artigas Remei , Muñoz Genís , Mauleón David
Published: October 2017

The efficacy and tolerability of single doses of dexketoprofen trometamol12.5 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg and ketoprofen 50 mg were compared in this double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study of 210 patients with moderate to severe pain after removal of one mandibular impacted third molar tooth. Pain intensity and pain relief were monitored for 6 h after administration of medication using visual analogue and verbal rating scales. All four active treatments were significantly more effective than placebo (P < 0.001). Dexketoprofen 25 mg and 50 mg produced an analgesic effect within 30 min of administration and their effect persisted for 6 h. Ketoprofen 50 mg produced a level of analgesia similar to those of the higher doses of dexketoprofen trometamol, but it had a slower onset. The 12.5‐mg dose of dexketoprofen trometamol was significantly superior to placebo but produced a lower level and shorter duration of analgesia compared to the other active treatments. There were no significant differences between 25 and 50 mg of dexketoprofen trometamol in any measure of analgesic efficacy. No serious adverse events were observed and there were no significant differences in the incidence of adverse events among treatment groups. These results demonstrate that dexketoprofen trometamol 25 mg is at least as effective as the racemic ketoprofen 50 mg in the treatment of postsurgical dental pain. The more rapid onset of action compared to ketoprofen suggests that dexketoprofen trometamol is more appropriate for treatment of acute pain.
Synthesis and evaluation of Tc‐99m and fluorescence‐labeled elastin‐derived peptide, VAPG for multimodal tumor imaging in murine tumor model
Authors: Kim Myoung Hyoun , Kim Chang Guhn , Kim Seul‐Gi , Kim Dae‐Weung
Published: October 2017

We developed a Tc‐99m and fluorescence‐labeled peptide, Tc‐99m TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG to target tumor cells and evaluated the diagnostic performance as a dual‐modality imaging agent for tumor in a murine model. TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG was synthesized by using Fmoc solid‐phase peptide synthesis. Radiolabeling of TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG with Tc‐99m was done by using ligand exchange via tartrate. Binding affinity and in vitro cellular uptake studies were performed. Gamma camera imaging, biodistribution, and ex vivo imaging studies were performed in murine models with SW620 tumors. Tumor tissue slides were prepared and analyzed with immunohistochemistry by using confocal microscopy. After radiolabeling procedures with Tc‐99m, Tc‐99m TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG complexes were prepared in high yield (>96%). The Kd of Tc‐99m TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG determined by saturation binding was 16.8 ± 3.6 nM. Confocal microscopy images of SW620 cells incubated with TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG showed strong fluorescence in the cytoplasm. Gamma camera imaging revealed substantial uptake of Tc‐99m TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG in tumors. Tumor uptake was effectively blocked by the coinjection of an excess concentration of VAPG. Specific uptake of Tc‐99m TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG was confirmed by biodistribution, ex vivo imaging, and immunohistochemistry stain studies. In vivo and in vitro studies revealed substantial uptake of Tc‐99m TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG in tumor cells. Tc‐99m TAMRA‐GHEG‐ECG‐VAPG has potential as a dual‐modality tumor imaging agent.
Wet and dry extremes in Quito (Ecuador) since the 17th century
Authors: Domínguez‐Castro F. , García‐Herrera R. , Vicente‐Serrano S. M.
Published: October 2017

Wet and dry extremes in Quito (Ecuador) over the last 400 years are studied using two sources of information: the longest available instrumental rainfall series in northern South America (1891–2015) and the rogation ceremonies recorded in the Chapter Acts of Quito (1600–1822). The rogation ceremonies present a seasonal distribution that is related to the crops and to the typical distribution of rainfall over the year. August was the month with most pro serenitate rogations because farmers needed dry conditions for harvest, whereas excess rainfall at this time would lead to rotting and loss of the harvest. The pro pluvia rogations were markedly more frequent during January and February when farmers needed rain for sowing. This relationship between climate and farming activities makes Quito's rogations a good proxy for drought and extreme wet conditions during January–February–March (JFM) and wet conditions during June–July–August (JJA). Standardized precipitation index (SPI) was computed for the instrumental period. The 3‐month SPI showed a significant linear trend over the last 125 years (−0.4 per decade, p = 0.009). The five wettest periods were 1651–1657, 1663–1669, 1913–1919, 1950–1956, and 1981–1985. Droughts have intensified in frequency and length since the middle of the 20th century. The most important drought periods were 1692–1701, 1718–1723, 1976–1980, 1990–1993, and 2001–2006. The severest drought during the last 400 years occurred in 1692–1701 when a great famine devastated Quito and affected most of the central Andes.
Natural vitamin B12 and fucose supplementation of green smoothies with edible algae and related quality changes during their shelf life
Authors: Castillejo Noelia , Martínez‐Hernández Ginés Benito , Goffi Valentina , Gómez Perla A , Aguayo Encarna , Artés Francisco , Artés‐Hernández Francisco
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Some algae are an excellent sources of vitamin B12, of special interest for vegetarian/vegan consumers, and of fucose to supplement fruit and vegetable beverages such as smoothies. Nevertheless, supplementation of smoothies with algae may lead to possible quality changes during smoothie shelf life that need to be studied. Therefore, the quality changes in fresh green smoothies supplemented (2.2%) with nine edible algae (sea lettuce, kombu, wakame, thongweed, dulse, Irish moss, nori, Spirulina and Chlorella) were studied throughout 24 days at 5 °C.

RESULTS

The initial vitamin C content – 238.7–326.0 mg kg−1 fresh weight (FW) – of a 200 g portion of any of the smoothies ensured full coverage of its recommended daily intake, and still supplying 50–60% of the recommended intake after 7 days. Chlorella and Spirulina smoothies showed the highest vitamin B12 content (33.3 and 15.3 µg kg−1 FW, respectively), while brown algae showed fucose content of 141.1–571.3 mg kg−1 FW. These vitamin B12 and fucose contents were highly maintained during shelf life.

CONCLUSION

The Spirulina supplementation of a 200 g smoothie portion ensured full coverage of the recommended vitamin B12 intake, with lower vitamin C degradation, during a shelf life of 17 days. Furthermore, thongweed and kombu are also considered as excellent fucose sources with similar shelf life. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Application of rape pod sealants to reduce adverse environmental impacts
Authors: Bauša Laimis , Steponavičius Dainius , Jotautienė Eglė , Kemzūraitė Aurelija , Zaleckas Ernestas
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Rape (Brassica napus L.) is a major global oilseed crop characterized by its high potential as an alimentary oil and in biodiesel production. The two most popular pod sealants (PS) used to reduce rape pod shattering are products in the pinolene range (di‐1‐p‐menthene) and latex polymer products. Reports on the effective preservation of seed yield by these products are fairly contradictory. With this in mind, an experimental PS (PS4) that contained the active agents acrylic and trisiloxane was developed.

RESULTS

Comparative experimental trials of the developed PS4 and three other PS (PS1, PS2 and PS3) containing active agents that are generally used for sealant production were conducted. The studies showed that the static and dynamic surface tension of PS4 was the lowest at the same concentration (2.0 g kg−1), consequently demonstrating the lowest spray drift. The chemical substances from PS had not penetrated the rape seeds in any of the PSs.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that treatment with PS4 exerts a beneficial effect in reducing rape seed yield loss (68–104 kg ha−1 in 2014 and 194–305 kg ha−1 in 2015) compared to other investigated PS. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparative isolation and purification of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin from Capsici Fructus using supercritical fluid extraction combined with high speed countercurrent chromatography
Authors: Yan Rongwei , Zhao Leilei , Tao Junfei , Zou Yong , Xu Xinjun
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 (SFE‐CO2) was utilized for extraction of capsaicin (CA) and dihydrocapsaicin (DHCA) from Capsici Fructus, and then a two‐step enrichment method for separating capsaicinoids from SFE‐CO2 extracts was developed. The process involved extraction with aqueous methanol and crystallization by alkali extraction and acid precipitation. Finally, a consecutive high‐speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) separation method was successfully applied in the purification of CA and DHCA from capsaicinoid crystal.

RESULTS

The extraction pressure, extraction temperature and volume of co‐solvent were optimized at 33 MPa, 41 °C and 75 mL, respectively, using response surface methodology; the extraction rates of CA and DHCA were about 93.18% and 93.49%, respectively. 407.43 mg capsaicinoid crystal was isolated from the SFE‐CO2 extracts obtained from 100 g capsicum powder by the two‐step enrichment method. About 506 mg and 184 mg CA and DHCA with purities up to 98.31% and 96.68%, respectively, were obtained from 1 g capsaicinoid crystal in one HSCCC of three consecutive sample loadings without exchanging any solvent system.

CONCLUSIONS

This method comprising SFE‐CO2, a two‐step enrichment and HSCCC was efficient, powerful and practical for the large‐scale preparation of CA and DHCA from Capsici Fructus with high purity and high yield. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Postharvest monitoring of organic potato (cv. Anuschka) during hot‐air drying using visible–NIR hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Moscetti Roberto , Sturm Barbara , Crichton Stuart OJ , Amjad Waseem , Massantini Riccardo
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

The potential of hyperspectral imaging (500–1010 nm) was evaluated for monitoring of the quality of potato slices (var. Anuschka) of 5, 7 and 9 mm thickness subjected to air drying at 50 °C. The study investigated three different feature selection methods for the prediction of dry basis moisture content and colour of potato slices using partial least squares regression (PLS).

RESULTS

The feature selection strategies tested include interval PLS regression (iPLS), and differences and ratios between raw reflectance values for each possible pair of wavelengths (R[λ1]–R[λ2] and R[λ1]:R[λ2], respectively). Moreover, the combination of spectral and spatial domains was tested. Excellent results were obtained using the iPLS algorithm. However, features from both datasets of raw reflectance differences and ratios represent suitable alternatives for development of low‐complex prediction models. Finally, the dry basis moisture content was high accurately predicted by combining spectral data (i.e. R[511 nm]–R[994 nm]) and spatial domain (i.e. relative area shrinkage of slice).

CONCLUSIONS

Modelling the data acquired during drying through hyperspectral imaging can provide useful information concerning the chemical and physicochemical changes of the product. With all this information, the proposed approach lays the foundations for a more efficient smart dryer that can be designed and its process optimized for drying of potato slices. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Biological activities ofAgaveby‐products and their possible applications in food and pharmaceuticals
Authors: López‐Romero Julio Cesar , Ayala‐Zavala Jesús Fernando , González‐Aguilar Gustavo Adolfo , Peña‐Ramos Etna Aida , González‐Ríos Humberto
Published: October 2017

Agaveleaves are considered a by‐product of alcoholic beverage production (tequila, mezcal and bacanora) because they are discarded during the production process, despite accounting for approximately 50% of the total plant weight. These by‐products constitute a potential source ofAgaveextracts rich in bioactive compounds, such as saponins, phenolic compounds and terpenes, and possess different biological effects, as demonstrated byin vitroandin vivotests (e.g. antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, antiparasitic and anticancer activity). Despite their positive results in biological assays,Agaveextracts have not been widely evaluated in food systems and pharmaceutical areas, and these fields represent a potential route to improve the usage ofAgaveplants as food additives and agents for treating medical diseases. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Current status of liver transplantation for cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Goldaracena Nicolás , Gorgen Andre , Sapisochin Gonzalo
Published: October 2017

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the second most common liver cancer, and it is associated with a poor prognosis. CCA can be divided into intrahepatic, hilar, and distal. Despite the subtype, the median survival is 12‐24 months without treatment. Liver transplantation (LT) is recognized worldwide as a curative option for hepatocellular carcinoma. On the other hand, the initial results for LT for CCA were very poor mainly due to a lack of adequate patient selection. In the last 2 decades, improvements have been made in the management of unresectable hilar CCA, and the results of LT after neoadjuvant chemoradiation have been shown to be promising. This has prompted a consideration of hilar CCA as an indication for LT in some centers. Furthermore, some recent research has shown promising results after LT for patients with early stages of intrahepatic CCA. A better understanding of the best tools to prognosticate the outcomes of LT for CCA is still needed. Here, we aimed to review the role of LT for the treatment of patients with perihilar and intrahepatic CCA. Also, we will discuss the most recent advances in the field and the future direction of the management of this disease in an era of transplantation oncology. Liver Transplantation 24 294–303 2018 AASLD.
Anisotropic Linear and Volumetric Thermal‐Expansion Behaviors of Self‐Standing Polyimide Films Analyzed by Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA) and Optical Interferometry
Authors: Ando Shinji , Sekiguchi Kenji , Mizoroki Masashi , Okada Tomohiro , Ishige Ryohei
Published: October 2017

The relationships between the molecular structure, polymer chain orientation, β‐transition temperature, and the coefficients of in‐plane and out‐of‐plane linear thermal expansions (CTE, α), as well as the coefficients of volumetric thermal expansion (CVE, β), are extensively examined for ten types of self‐standing aromatic polyimide (PI) films via thermomechanical analysis, near‐infrared optical interferometry, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The out‐of‐plane CTEs (α⊥) of PI films having rigid‐rod structures are 20–40 times larger than their in‐plane CTEs (α//), whereas the α⊥ values of PI films having bent linkages in the main chains are comparable to their α// values. In addition, the values of normalized anisotropy in CTE for PIs (η), defined as (α⊥ −α//)/β, are proportional to the orientation coefficients (P200) estimated from the in‐plane/out‐of‐plane birefringence (Δn) and molecular polarizability tensor. Furthermore, larger CVE values are observed for PIs exhibiting lower β‐relaxation temperatures (Tβ), at which localized molecular motion occurs. In contrast, smaller CVE values are observed for PIs exhibiting higher Tβs because their local molecular motions are suppressed due to the structural rigidity and dense molecular packing.
Building prime models in fully good abstract elementary classes
Authors: Vasey Sebastien
Published: October 2017

We show how to build prime models in classes of saturated models of abstract elementary classes (AECs) having a well‐behaved independence relation: Let be an almost fully good AEC that is categorical in and has the ‐existence property for domination triples. For any , the class of Galois saturated models of of size λ has prime models over every set of the form . This generalizes an argument of Shelah, who proved the result when λ is a successor cardinal.
Detection of C2‐singularities using uniform spline approximations
Authors: Nagler Johannes , Kähler Uwe
Published: October 2017

For the detection of C2‐singularities, we present lower estimates for the error in Schoenberg variation‐diminishing spline approximation with equidistant knots in terms of the classical second‐order modulus of smoothness. To this end, we investigate the behaviour of the iterates of the Schoenberg operator. In addition, we show an upper bound of the second‐order derivative of these iterative approximations. Finally, we provide an example of how to detect singularities based on the decay rate of the approximation error.
Modulation of Human Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue MicroRNA Profile Associated with Changes in Adiposity‐Related Parameters
Authors: Giardina Simona , Hernández‐Alonso Pablo , Salas‐Salvadó Jordi , Rabassa‐Soler Antoni , Bulló Mònica
Published: October 2017

Scope

To analyze the effect of three calorie‐restricted diets with different amount and quality of carbohydrates on subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) microRNA (miRNA) profile.

Methods and results

6‐month parallel, randomized trial conducted on overweight and obese subjects randomized to: 1) low glycemic index diet (LGI), 2) high glycemic index diet (HGI), and 3) low‐fat (LF). The genome‐wide SAT miRNA profile was assessed in eight randomly selected participants and the most relevant changing miRNAs (n = 13) were validated in 48 subjects. None of the miRNAs showed significant changes between the intervention groups. However, changes in some of them correlated with changes in biochemical and anthropometric variables. Stratifying our population according to tertiles of percentage change in body weight (BW), we observed a significant down‐regulation of miR‐210 in those subjects in Tertile 1 as compared to Tertile 3. When our population was stratified by tertiles of waist circumference, miR‐132, miR‐29a, miR‐34a, and miR‐378 were found to be significantly down‐regulated, in T2 compared to T3. Furthermore, when stratified by tertiles of fat mass, we also observed the significant down‐regulation of miR‐132 in T1.

Conclusion

The macronutrient composition of a calorie‐restricted diet does not affect the expression of the miRNAs analyzed, while changes in adiposity play a primary regulatory role.
Parametric study of the smooth‐joint contact model on the mechanical behavior of jointed rock
Authors: Hu Wanrui , Kwok C.Y. , Duan Kang , Wang Tao
Published: October 2017

The smooth‐joint contact model based on distinct element method has been widely used to represent discontinuity in the simulation of fractured rock mass, but there is rare efficient guidance for the selection of proper parameters of smooth‐joint contact model, which is the basement for using this model properly. In this paper, the effect of smooth joint parameters on the macroscopic properties and failure mechanism of jointed rock under triaxial compression test is investigated. The numerical results reveal that the friction coefficient of smooth joint plays a dominant role in controlling mechanical behaviors. The stiffness of smooth joint has a relative small influence on the mechanical behaviors. Poisson ratio decreases with the reduction of normal stiffness but increases with the reduction of shear stiffness. The reduction of smooth joint strength, which is determined by normal strength, cohesion, and friction angle of smooth joint, contributes to the breakage of bonded smooth joint and ultimately decreases the strength of the specimen. We proposed a detailed calibration process for smooth‐joint contact model according to the relationship between smooth‐joint parameters and mechanical properties. By following this process, the numerical results are validated against corresponding experimental results and good agreement between them can be found in stress‐strain curves and failure modes of different joint orientations. Further analyses from the microperspective are performed by looking at transmission of contact force, the nature and distribution of microcracks, and the particle displacement to show the failure process and failure modes.
Health Professionals' perceptions of insurance coverage for weight loss services
Authors: Doshi R. S. , Bleich S. N. , Gudzune K. A.
Published: October 2017

Objective

To examine health professionals' (HPs) perceptions of top challenges and solutions in obesity care, and whether these perceptions differ by patient‐panel income level.

Methods

A 2014 national cross‐sectional survey of HPs in nutrition, nursing, behavioural or mental health, exercise and pharmacy was analysed. The dependent variables were identification of insurance coverage for their services as a top (1) challenge or (2) solution for obesity care. The independent variable was self‐reported income distribution of HPs' patient panels, which was dichotomized as ‘lower‐income’ if ‘mostly low income’ or ‘higher‐income’ if ‘mostly not low income/evenly split between low‐income and not low‐income’. Multivariate logistic regression with survey weights was used.

Results

Among 450 HPs, mean age was 44.9 years; 86% were women; 44% had lower‐income panels. Overall, 25% of HPs endorsed insurance coverage as a current challenge, and 58% viewed improved coverage as a solution. HPs with lower and higher‐income patient panels were similarly likely to identify coverage as a challenge (28% vs. 20%, p = 0.33) and benefits expansion as a solution (47% vs. 64%, p = 0.08).

Conclusions

Most HPs perceive insurance coverage for their services to benefit patient weight loss. While the Affordable Care Act expands obesity counselling coverage to many lower‐income patients, legislation increasing access to benefits for all patients regardless of insurance type may be beneficial.
A novel halogen‐free co‐curing agent with linear multi‐aromatic rigid structure as flame‐retardant modifier in epoxy resin
Authors: Chen Ting , Chen Xianming , Wang Meijie , Hou Peixin , Jie Cao , Li Jilu , Xu Yiting , Zeng Birong , Dai Lizong
Published: October 2017

A novel halogen‐free 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO)‐containing co‐curing agent, 6,6′‐(1,4‐phenylenebis(((4‐(phenylamino)phenyl)amino)methylene))bis(dibenzo[c,e][1,2]oxaphosphinine 6‐oxide) (DPN) was synthesized via a simple 1‐pot or 2‐step procedure with yield of 86.2% and 70.8%, respectively. The molecular structures of 4,4′‐((1,4‐phenylenebis(methanylylidene))bis(azanylylidene))bis(N‐phenylaniline) (DPN intermediate) and DPN are characterized by FTIR, NMR, and MS. TGA tests show that the char yield of DPN/EP composites raises to 30.9% when the molar ratio of DPN to 4,4‐diaminodiphenyl methane(DDM) is 20:80. Tg values of DPN/EP composites tested by DSC and DMA are similar to neat epoxy resin (EP), which is due to the secondary amine in DPN that participates in the cross‐linking reaction of epoxy resin. The storage modulus in the rubber stage (E′‐190 °C) of flame‐retardant epoxy resin is close to that of neat EP, while their tanδ's are lower, which indicates the similarity of samples' cross‐linking density due to the participation of DPN in the cross‐linking reaction. The results show that when the molar ratio of DPN and DDM is 5:95, the epoxy has a higher Tg value and better mechanical properties than other samples. The introduction of DPN efficiently improves the flame‐retardant properties of epoxy resin with V‐0 rating of UL‐94 vertical burning test, non‐dripping, 41% of limit oxygen index (LOI) value, low peak heat release rate (PHRR), and total heat release (THR).