bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
K channel impairment determines sex and age differences in epinephrine‐mediated outcomes after brain injury
Authors: Armstead William M. , Riley John , Vavilala Monica S.
Published: April 2017

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the leading cause of injury‐related death in children, with boys and children under 4 years having particularly poor outcomes. Activation of ATP‐ and calcium‐sensitive (KATP and KCa) channels produces cerebrovasodilation and contributes to autoregulation, both of which are impaired after TBI, contributing to poor outcomes. Upregulation of the c‐Jun‐terminal kinase (JNK) isoform of mitogen‐activated protein kinase produces K channel function impairment after CNS injury. Vasoactive agents can be used to normalize cerebral perfusion pressure. Epinephrine (EPI) prevents impairment of cerebral autoregulation and hippocampal neuronal cell necrosis after TBI in female and male newborn and female juvenile but not male juvenile pigs via differential modulation of JNK. The present study used anesthetized pigs equipped with a closed cranial window to address the hypothesis that differential K channel impairment contributes to age and sex differences in EPI‐mediated outcomes after brain injury. Results show that pial artery dilation in response to the KATP and KCa channel agonists cromakalim and NS 1619 was impaired after TBI and that such impairment was prevented by EPI in female and male newborn and female juvenile but not male juvenile pigs. Using vasodilation as an index of function, these data indicate that EPI protects cerebral autoregulation and limits histopathology after TBI through protection of K channel function via blockade of JNK in an age‐ and sex‐dependent manner. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Population densities of indigenous Acidobacteria change in the presence of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in rhizosphere
Authors: Kalam Sadaf , Das Subha Narayan , Basu Anirban , Podile Appa Rao
Published: April 2017

Rhizosphere microbial community has diverse metabolic capabilities and plays a crucial role in maintaining plant health. Oligotrophic plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), along with difficult‐to‐culture microbial fractions, might be involved synergistically in microbe‐microbe and plant‐microbe interactions in the rhizosphere. Among the difficult‐to‐culture microbial fractions, Acidobacteria constitutes the most dominant phylum thriving in rhizospheric soils. We selected effective PGPR for tomato and black gram and studied their effect on population densities of acidobacterial members. Three facultatively oligotrophic PGPR were identified through 16S rRNA gene sequencing as Sphingobacterium sp. (P3), Variovorax sp. (P4), and Roseomonas sp. (A2); the latter being a new report of PGPR. In presence of selected PGPR strains, the changes in population densities of Acidobacteria were monitored in metagenomic DNA extracted from bulk and rhizospheric soils of tomato and black gram using real time qPCR. A gradual increase in equivalent cell numbers of Acidobacteria members was observed over time along with a simultaneous increase in plant growth promotion by test PGPR. We report characterization of three effective PGPR strains and their effects on indigenous, underexplored difficult‐to‐culture phylum‐Acidobacteria. We suggest that putative interactions between these two bacterial groups thriving in rhizospheric soils could be beneficial for plant growth.
Identification of inorganic and organic inclusions in the subglacial antarctic Lake Vostok ice with Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Böttger U. , Bulat S. A. , Hanke F. , Pavlov S. G. , Greiner‐Bär M. , Hübers H.‐W.
Published: April 2017

The investigation of inclusions entrapped into the accretion ice of the subglacial Lake Vostok in Antarctica gives an insight into former times of the Antarctic history. Terrestrial (of biological and geologically mineralogical origin) as well as extraterrestrial (meteorites) materials are hermetically embedded in the Vostok ice core and provide information about the conditions and events on Earth existed/occurred during last million years. Confocal Raman spectroscopy is well suited for the analysis of the inclusions without melting the ice and, therefore, preventing undesirable contamination with present‐day material. It is a nondestructive method for material identification with depth resolving capability. It permits a locally precise statement about the chemical–mineralogical composition and allows the context information preservation of several side by side inclusions.

Here, we present first results of our Raman measurements of the inclusion embedded in the Lake Vostok ice sample 5G‐3 3607‐4 (3607‐m depth). The results obtained confirm that Raman spectroscopy is a very useful method for the exploration of inclusions entrapped into lattice of any natural ice. As Raman spectroscopy is already planned to be applied in upcoming missions in space research (ExoMars, Mars 2020, to the icy moons), a co‐operation of the space science community with the Antarctica–Lake Vostok community is suggested to test the space instrumentation under the extreme environment of the Central East Antarctica and conditions of the subglacial Lake Vostok. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geochemical study of the Northwest Africa 6148 Martian meteorite and its terrestrial weathering processes
Authors: Torre‐Fdez Imanol , Aramendia Julene , Gomez‐Nubla Leticia , Castro Kepa , Madariaga Juan M.
Published: April 2017

The number of studies of Mars geology through the geochemical analysis of Martian meteorites has been increasing in the last years because of the amount of information that can be obtained about the planet. In this study, a Martian meteorite, the Northwest Africa 6148 nakhlite, has been analysed and characterised, as there were few studies about it. After analysing it by Raman spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscope–Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectroscopy coupled to the Structural and Chemical Analyser interface, augite and olivine were identified as the main mineral phases of the sample. Moreover, using the Raman bands position, both minerals' metal proportions were estimated. This methodology used in meteorite studies provides good semi‐quantitative results and can offer some advantages to other techniques. In addition, calcite was found, being associated with Earth weathering processes. Surprisingly, Co3O4 was detected in the matrix of the meteorite. This is the first time that this oxide is observed in a meteorite. It was not possible to determine if it is an original compound from Mars or a product of a weathering process on Earth. However, whichever the case may be, solely the presence of this cobalt oxide represents a relevant finding, as it could provide a deeper knowledge of the Martian geochemistry or the Earth weathering processes. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physicochemical and in vitro antioxidant properties of pectin extracted from hot pepper (Capsicum annuum L. var. acuminatum (Fingerh.)) residues with hydrochloric and sulfuric acids
Authors: Xu Honggao , Tai Kedong , Wei Tong , Yuan Fang , Gao Yanxiang
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Transformation of hot pepper residues to value‐added products with concomitant benefits on environmental pollution would be of great value to capsicum oleoresin manufacturers. Pectin, a soluble dietary fiber with multiple functions, from hot pepper residues was investigated in this study.

RESULTS

The extraction of hot pepper pectin using hydrochloric acid was first optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The most efficient parameters for maximum hot pepper pectin yield (14.63%, dry basis) were a pH of 1.0, a temperature of 90 °C, an extraction time of 2 h and a liquid‐to‐solid ratio of 20 L g−1. The pectin was mainly composed of uronic acids, and the major neutral sugars were galactose and glucose. The structure of hot pepper pectin was characterized by homogalacturonan and rhamnogalacturonan I elements. The physicochemical properties of hot pepper pectin extracted by sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid were further investigated. The content of protein and degree of esterification in hot pepper pectin extracted with sulfuric acid solution (SP) were higher (P < 0.05) than those in that extracted with hydrochloric acid solution (HP), while the mean molecular weight of SP was lower than that of HP. Compared with HP, SP exhibited higher viscosity and better emulsifying property.

CONCLUSION

Based on the yield and physicochemical properties of hot pepper pectin, hot pepper residues would be a new source to obtain pectin, and SP would be more preferred than HP. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Microbiomes of the normal middle ear and ears with chronic otitis media
Authors: Minami Shujiro B. , Mutai Hideki , Suzuki Tomoko , Horii Arata , Oishi Naoki , Wasano Koichiro , Katsura Motoyasu , Tanaka Fujinobu , Takiguchi Tetsuya , Fujii Masato , Kaga Kimitaka
Published: April 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to profile and compare the middle ear microbiomes of human subjects with and without chronic otitis media.

Study Design

Prospective multicenter cohort study.

Methods

All consecutive patients undergoing tympanoplasty surgery for chronic otitis media or ear surgery for conditions other than otitis media were recruited. Sterile swab samples were collected from the middle ear mucosa during surgery. The variable region 4 of the 16S rRNA gene in each sample were amplified using region‐specific primers adapted for the Illumina MiSeq sequencer (Illumina, CA, USA)). The sequences were subjected to local blast and classified using Metagenome@KIN (World Fusion, Tokyo, Japan).

Results

In total, 155 participants were recruited from seven medical centers. Of these, 88 and 67 had chronic otitis media and normal middle ears, respectively. The most abundant bacterial phyla on the mucosal surfaces of the normal middle ears were Proteobacteria, followed by Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes. The children and adults with normal middle ears differed significantly in terms of middle ear microbiomes. Subjects with chronic otitis media without active inflammation (dry ear) had similar middle ear microbiomes as the normal middle ears group. Subjects with chronic otitis media with active inflammation (wet ear) had a lower prevalence of Proteobacteria and a higher prevalence of Firmicutes than the normal middle ears.

Conclusion

The human middle ear is inhabited by more diverse microbial communities than was previously thought. Alteration of the middle ear microbiome may contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic otitis media with active inflammation.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 127:E371–E377, 2017
MRI surveillance of vestibular schwannomas without contrast enhancement: Clinical and economic evaluation
Authors: Coelho Daniel H. , Tang Yang , Suddarth Brian , Mamdani Mohammed
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To determine if high‐resolution T2‐weighted (HRT2) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a comparably accurate and economical alternative to the gold standard of contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted (T1C) MRI for surveillance of know vestibular schwannomas (VSs).

Study Design

Retrospective case‐control analysis, systematic review, and economic evaluation.

Methods

Vestibular schwannoma size in anteroposterior, mediolateral, and superoinferior axes were measured by two neuroradiologists, both blinded to previous measurements, for 50 randomized patients with T1C and HRT2 on two separate occasions. Measurements were assessed by Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficients, and differences were analyzed by Studentttest. Once the data were analyzed, appropriate economic evaluation was performed utilizing institutional‐, federal‐, and literature‐based estimates of cost and incidence/prevalence.

Results

Pearson correlations (r) between T1C and HRT2 were 0.991 and 0.973 for radiologists 1 and 2, respectively, with no statistically significant differences (P≤ 0.05) between imaging techniques. Intraobserver and interobserver reliability estimates (κ) were 0.88 to 1 for both T1C and HRT2, indicating very high reliability. Cost‐minimization analysis demonstrated cost and charge differences of $148.02 and $1,284 per patient per scan, respectively. This represents an overall cost and charge savings for this 50‐patient cohort of $7,401 and $64,200, respectively.

Conclusion

HRT2 imaging is a highly reliable and lower‐cost alternative to T1C for follow‐up surveillance scans in patients with VS.

Level of Evidence

2C.Laryngoscope, 128:202–209, 2018
Polydioxanone plates are safe and effective for L‐strut support in functional septorhinoplasty
Authors: Fuller Jennifer C. , Levesque Patricia A. , Lindsay Robin W.
Published: April 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and result stability of polydioxanone (PDS) plate use for L‐strut stabilization.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of a prospective cohort.

Methods

Patients who underwent functional septorhinoplasty with the use of PDS plates between January 2013 and January 2017 were administered the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale pre‐ and postoperatively at 2, 4, 6, and 12 months. Patient demographics, reason for PDS use, graft type, complications, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Eighty‐eight patients aged 34.3 years (standard deviation [SD] = 15.7 years; range, 7.5–71.5 years) were included. All patients were found to have a fracture and/or severe deviation of the L‐strut for which the PDS plate was used for rigid support. Mean preoperative NOSE score 65.2 (SD = 22.1) significantly decreased to 19.6 (SD = 21.6) at 7.2 months (SD = 5.5 months) postoperatively. There were no significant differences in NOSE scores between follow‐up time points. There was one complication, a septal abscess, and one revision.

Conclusions

A PDS plate is a safe and effective material to be utilized in functional septorhinoplasty for patients with a fracture or iatrogenic injury to the septal L‐strut or poor quality septal cartilage that requires stability without additional width. Outcomes are stable at 6 and 12 months, after the plate has dissolved. The use of a PDS plate may decrease the need for rib grafting in patients with a history of previous septoplasty and persistent nasal obstruction with a dorsal or caudal C‐shaped septal deformity or fracture of the L‐strut.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 127:2725–2730, 2017
Change of somatosensory function of the tongue caused by chorda tympani nerve disorder after stapes surgery
Authors: Maeda Emi , Katsura Hirokazu , Nin Tomomi , Sakaguchi‐Fukunaga Akiko , Mishiro Yasuo , Sakagami Masafumi
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Patients after middle ear surgery often complain of taste disturbance and a lingual numbness. The purpose of this study was to objectively assess changes in the somatosensation of the tongue and taste function in patients undergoing stapes surgery.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Methods

Symptoms of taste disturbance and tongue numbness after surgery were investigated before and after surgery in 41 patients (13 males, 28 females; mean age 41.8 years) who underwent stapes surgery. Twenty‐eight patients (9 males, 19 females; mean age 43.1 years) underwent sensory and taste function tests before and after surgery. Sensory function of the tongue was measured at the operated side and the nonoperated side using the 2‐point discrimination test and an electrostimulator test. Taste function was assessed with electrogustometry (EGM).

Results

The chorda tympani nerve (CTN) was gently touched or stretched in all patients. Postoperative thresholds on the operated side were significantly higher than preoperative thresholds in all tests in the patients who underwent all three kinds of tests. Tongue somatosensory symptoms improved significantly earlier than the taste disturbance postoperatively, and the sensory thresholds returned to the baseline along with recovery of symptoms.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that dysfunction of the CTN occurred following surgery even when the CTN was preserved, and that the sensory nerve threshold of the tongue correlated with the symptom of lingual numbness. The CTN may play a role not only in taste function but also in the somatosensory function of the tongue.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:701–706, 2018
Asian and non‐Asian disparities in outcomes of non‐nasopharyngeal head and neck cancer
Authors: Kim Jason D. , Chang Jennifer T. , Moghaddamjou Ali , Kornelsen Emily A. , Ruan Jenny Y. , Olson Robert A. , Cheung Winson Y.
Published: April 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate disparities in overall survival (OS) between Asian and non‐Asian patients diagnosed with non‐nasopharyngeal head and neck cancer (HNC).

Study Design

This was a population‐based, retrospective study of patients diagnosed with non‐nasopharyngeal HNC of squamous cell carcinoma histology between 2001 and 2010 in British Columbia, Canada.

Methods

Using Kaplan‐Meier methods and Cox regression models, we examined the relationship between race and OS.

Results

A total of 3,036 patients were included in the study. Median age was 64 years, 74% were men, and 7% were Asians. Asians had worse Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) status (29% vs. 23%, P = .07) and larger tumors (33% vs. 21%, P = .02), and were more likely to be diagnosed with oral cavity cancers (38% vs. 25%, P < .001) than non‐Asians. Asians were also less likely to receive multimodality therapy than non‐Asians (90% vs. 95%, P = .02). Asians were more likely to have never smoked (49% vs. 15%, P < .001) and to be married or with a partner (80% vs. 69%, P = .02). Multivariate models showed that Asians had better OS than non‐Asians (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.25‐0.99, P = .05). Three‐year OS did not differ significantly between Asians and non‐Asians (41% vs. 42%, P = .18); however, 5‐year OS did (22% vs. 19% P = .03). Stratifying by treatment type, outcomes were comparable in both groups except for radiotherapy alone, where Asians showed significantly better OS (HR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.51‐0.99, P = .04). Advanced age, worse ECOG, greater tumor size, and lack of treatment also correlated with inferior OS.

Conclusions

Despite several worse prognostic features and less aggressive treatment, Asians tended to exhibit better OS than non‐Asians.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 127:2528–2533, 2017
Trace metal composition of size‐fractionated plankton in the Western Philippine Sea: The impact of anthropogenic aerosol deposition
Authors: Liao Wen‐Hsuan , Yang Shun‐Chung , Ho Tung‐Yuan
Published: April 2017

The surface water of the Western Philippine Sea (WPS) receives a significant amount of anthropogenic aerosols from East Asia, serving as an ideal location to investigate the impact of anthropogenic aerosol deposition on trace metal composition and cycling in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean (NWPO). As part of the Taiwan GEOTRACES process study, we have collected size‐fractionated plankton from surface water to investigate their metal composition in the open ocean. Elemental ratios in plankton, P‐ and Al‐normalized, are used to evaluate the sources of trace metals and the relative contribution of different metal components in plankton assemblages. Most of the trace metal quotas in plankton are one to two orders of magnitude higher than their intracellular plankton quota, indicating that the majority of the metals are most likely to be extracellularly adsorbed or aggregated on plankton. The metal to Al ratios for most of the trace metals in plankton are also one to two orders of magnitude higher than their lithogenic composition, but are relatively close to metal composition in aerosols collected in situ. This supports the notion that particulate trace metals associated with plankton mainly originate from anthropogenic aerosols, not lithogenic particles. Compared to plankton metal quotas obtained in other oceanic regions, trace metal quotas observed in the WPS rank among the highest for Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu globally. Our study demonstrates that anthropogenic aerosol deposition has significantly elevated trace metal concentrations in the size‐fractionated plankton in the surface water of the NWPO relative to the biological requirements.
The Best I Can Be: How Self‐Accountability Impacts Product Choice in Technology‐Mediated Environments
Authors: Rowe Zoe O. , Wilson Hugh N. , Dimitriu Radu M. , Breiter Katja , Charnley Fiona J.
Published: April 2017

Technology‐mediated environments are important not only as the location for an increasing proportion of purchases, but also as an even more pervasive part of the purchase journey. While most research into online consumer behavior focuses on attitudes as an antecedent of product choice, this article focuses on an important but hardly explored variable that may be impacted by technology‐mediated environments: self‐accountability. Laboratory experiments suggest that self‐accountability may influence online purchases, but this has not been confirmed in field studies. Furthermore, although this prior work suggests that self‐accountability may impact product choice through the elicitation of guilt, the role of positive emotions has not been explored. Using two surveys with online retailers, this paper (a) shows that in a technology‐mediated environment, self‐accountability influences product choice; (b) proposes and confirms a complementary route for this effect through pride that is stronger than that through guilt; and (c) evidences the relationship between self‐accountability and perceived consumer effectiveness. These results show a clear opportunity for digital marketers to encourage self‐accountability, to thereby elicit pride and not just guilt, and hence to impact consumer decision making in technology‐mediated environments, particularly when choices have sustainability implications.
“Why Do Young Thai Women Desire White Skin?” Understanding Conscious and Nonconscious Motivations of Young Women in Bangkok
Authors: Cuny Caroline , Opaswongkarn Titima
Published: April 2017

Skin whitening has been studied mainly using a postcolonial attitude analysis emphasizing conscious reasons behind skin bleaching. Studies dedicated to gaining a rich understanding of nonconscious motivations for skin whitening are scarce, especially in Asia. Therefore, two studies were conducted by using an innovative mix of research protocols to access to both conscious and nonconscious motivations. The studies were conducted among 92 female regular skin whitening users, aged 18–24 years, in Bangkok, Thailand. Study 1, among 42 women, used three‐combined qualitative research techniques of laddering, projective technique, and photo elicitation. Study 2 was conducted among 50 women to quantitatively test nonconscious motives implicitly associated with different white skin tones. The results revealed that motives are not linked to westernization. In a very competitive environment, light skin is seen as a strategic method to maintain men's loyalty, enhance self‐esteem, and guarantee career success. Managerial and methodological implications for marketers are discussed.
Conservation and diversity of the IrrE/DdrO‐controlled radiation response in radiation‐resistant Deinococcus bacteria
Authors: Blanchard Laurence , Guérin Philippe , Roche David , Cruveiller Stéphane , Pignol David , Vallenet David , Armengaud Jean , de Groot Arjan
Published: April 2017

The extreme radiation resistance of Deinococcus bacteria requires the radiation‐stimulated cleavage of protein DdrO by a specific metalloprotease called IrrE. DdrO is the repressor of a predicted radiation/desiccation response (RDR) regulon, composed of radiation‐induced genes having a conserved DNA motif (RDRM) in their promoter regions. Here, we showed that addition of zinc ions to purified apo‐IrrE, and short exposure of Deinococcus cells to zinc ions, resulted in cleavage of DdrO in vitro and in vivo, respectively. Binding of IrrE to RDRM‐containing DNA or interaction of IrrE with DNA‐bound DdrO was not observed. The data are in line with IrrE being a zinc peptidase, and indicate that increased zinc availability, caused by oxidative stress, triggers the in vivo cleavage of DdrO unbound to DNA. Transcriptomics and proteomics of Deinococcus deserti confirmed the IrrE‐dependent regulation of predicted RDR regulon genes and also revealed additional members of this regulon. Comparative analysis showed that the RDR regulon is largely well conserved in Deinococcus species, but also showed diversity in the regulon composition. Notably, several RDR genes with an important role in radiation resistance in Deinococcus radiodurans, for example pprA, are not conserved in some other radiation‐resistant Deinococcus species.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor promotes hepatocellular carcinoma tumorigenesis by targeting intestine‐specific homeobox expression
Authors: Hsu Shih‐Hsien , Wang Li‐Ting , Chai Chee‐Yin , Wu Chi‐Cheng , Hsi Edward , Chiou Shyh‐Shin , Wang Shen‐Nien
Published: April 2017

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a major chemical sensor, is thought to play a role in various biological contexts, including cell cycle regulation and tumorigenesis. However, its regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. We propose herein a novel mechanism through which AHR promotes tumorigenesis by targeting expression of the oncogene intestine‐specific homeobox (ISX) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Compared to paired tumor‐adjacent tissues and non‐HCC tumors, HCCs exhibited an increased and hierarchical pattern of AHR expression. Patients exhibiting high AHR expression had a significantly shorter survival duration, compared to those with low and medium expression. Functionally, AHR was found to target the newly discovered proto‐oncogene, ISX, resulting in the increased expression of this gene and its downstream targets, CCND1 and E2F1. Ablation of AHR or ISX in hepatoma cells suppressed cell growth, whereas overexpression promoted cell proliferation and led to enhanced tumorigenic activity in vitro and in vivo. These results provide evidence to support a critical role for the AHR/ISX axis in HCC tumorigenesis and suggest its potential utility as a new therapeutic and prognostic target for HCC.
Potentially functional variants in lncRNAs are associated with breast cancer risk in a Chinese population
Authors: Jiang Yue , Du Fangzhi , Chen Fei , Qin Na , Jiang Zhu , Zhou Jin , Jiang Tao , Pu Zhening , Cheng Yue , Chen Jiaping , Dai Juncheng , Ma Hongxia , Jin Guangfu , Hu Zhibin , Yu Hao , Shen Hongbing
Published: April 2017

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in the development of breast cancer. Genetic variants in lncRNAs may be involved in their abnormal expressions and associated with cancer risk. In the present study, we performed RNA sequencing on five paired breast cancer tumor and adjacent non‐cancerous tissues to obtain differentially expressed lncRNAs. We systematically selected potential regulatory variants of these lncRNAs and investigated the associations between these variants and breast cancer susceptibility in 1486 breast cancer cases and 1519 cancer‐free controls in a Chinese population. Eleven lncRNAs were significantly differentially expressed between breast cancer tumor and normal tissues (false discovery rate (FDR) ≤0.05 and fold‐change ≥2), including two known lncRNAs HOTAIR and UCA1. We subsequently genotyped 20 variants located on these lncRNAs and identified two variants (rs11471161 in AC104135.3 and rs3751232 in RP11‐1060J15.4) associated with breast cancer risk. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the variant allele of rs11471161 was significantly associated with a decreased breast cancer risk (additive model: OR = 0.84, 95%CI = 0.74‐0.94, P = 0.004), while the variant allele of rs3751232 showed an increased risk of breast cancer (additive model: OR = 1.20, 95%CI = 1.02‐1.40, P = 0.027). Further co‐expression analysis indicated that AC104135.3 associated with ERBB2, which promotes the development and progression of breast cancer through overexpression. Together, these results suggest that genetic variants rs11471161 and rs3751232 in AC104135.3, and RP11‐1060J15.4, respectively, may influence the susceptibility to breast cancer in the Chinese population. Further functional evaluations and larger studies are warranted to validate these findings.
Kctd20 promotes the development of non‐small cell lung cancer through activating Fak/AKT pathway and predicts poor overall survival of patients
Authors: Zhang Xiupeng , Zhou Haijing , Cai Lin , Fan Chuifeng , Liu Yang , Wang Liang , Li Qingchang , Miao Yuan
Published: April 2017

Kctd20 (potassium channel tetramerization protein domain containing 20) is a positive regulator of Akt signaling. However, the role of Kctd20 during the course of tumorigenesis and development is unclear. Using immunohistochemistry, we demonstrated that, in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, Kctd20 protein expression significantly correlates with advanced TNM stage (P < 0.001), positive status for regional lymph node metastasis (P = 0.019), and poor overall survival (P = 0.013). Proliferation and invasion assays showed that Kctd20 dramatically promotes the proliferation and invasion of NSCLC cells (P = 0.007 and P < 0.001, respectively). Subsequent Western Blot and qPCR experiments revealed an upregulation of Cyclin D1 and downregulation of E‐cadherin in Kctd20‐overexpressing cells. After depleting Kctd20, downregulaton of Cyclin D1, and upegulation of E‐cadherin was observed. After overexpressing Kctd20, the levels of phosphorylated Fak (Tyr397) and Akt (Thr308) increased, while after transfection with Kctd20‐siRNA these phosporylated proteins were downregulated. Moreover, in Kctd20‐overexpressing cells, treatment with an Akt inhibitor reduced expression of p‐Akt and Cyclin D1, enhanced E‐cadherin expression, and did not impact p‐Fak levels. When Kctd20‐overexpressing cells were treated with a Fak inhibitor, the same effects were seen, and the level of p‐Akt was reduced. Our results suggest that Kctd20 impacts proliferation and invasion of NSCLC through enhancing Fak (Tyr397) and Akt (Thr 308) phosphorylation. Kctd20 may predict prognosis and be targeted therapeutically in NSCLC.
Direct Detection of Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP) in Real Banknotes from ATM Explosion by EASI‐MS
Authors: Nascimento Correa Deleon , Melendez‐Perez Jose J. , Jardim Zacca Jorge , Borges Rodrigo , Morgado Schmidt Eduardo , Eberlin Marcos Nogueira , Meurer Eduardo César
Published: April 2017

In Brazil, automated teller machine (ATM) has become a major target of theft incursions toward explosion. Efficient analysis of explosives residues on suspect banknotes is a serious issue in forensic labs, and guide to the crime solution. Easy ambient sonic‐spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI‐MS) is shown to be a simple and selective screening tool to identify peroxide explosives on real banknotes collected from ATM explosion. Analyses were carried out directly on the banknotes surfaces without any sample preparation, identifying triacetone triperoxide (TATP) and diacetone diperoxide (DADP). Homemade EASI source was coupled to ultrahigh‐resolution and ultrahigh accuracy FT‐ICR MS and revealed the ion of m/z 245 correspondent to sodiated TATP [C9H18O6Na]+ and the ion of m/z 171 related to sodiated DADP [C6H12O4Na]+, ions that is the sodiated DADP and the ions of m/z 173 and 189 related to [C6H14O4Na]+ and [C6H14O4K]+, respectively, which are associated to chemical markers of TATP domestic route synthesis. EASI source coupled to a single quadrupole mass spectrometer provides an intelligent and simple way to identify the explosives TATP, DADP and its domestic synthesis markers.
Development and Qualification of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Models for Drugs With Atypical Distribution Behavior: A Desipramine Case Study
Authors: Samant TS , Lukacova V , Schmidt S
Published: April 2017

Desipramine is a secondary tricyclic amine, which is primarily metabolized by cytochrome 2D6. It shows a high volume of distribution (Vss) (10–50 L/kg) due to its high lipophilicity, unspecific phospholipid binding, and lysosomal trapping. The objective of this study was to develop and qualify a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for desipramine, which accounts for the high Vss of the drug following intravenous and oral administration of doses up to 100 mg. The model also accounts for the extended time to reach maximum concentration after oral dosing due to enterocyte trapping. Once developed and qualified in adults, we characterized the dynamic changes in metabolism and pharmacokinetics of desipramine after birth by scaling the system‐specific parameters of the model from adults to pediatrics. The developed modeling strategy provides a prototypical workflow that can also be applied to other drugs with similar properties and a high volume of distribution.
Crystallographic and optical properties of CuInS2‐Cu2ZnSnS4 crystals
Authors: Oishi Koichiro , Shimizu Wataru , Takeuchi Akiko , Nishida Genki , Yamazaki Makoto , Nakagawa Masato , Aoyagi Naritoshi , Katagiri Hironori
Published: April 2017

CuInS2‐Cu2ZnSnS4 crystals were synthesized by the pressure‐less sintering method using CuInS2 and Cu2ZnSnS4 powders grown from each melt. The x values in Cu2(2In)x(ZnSn)(1.00−x)S4 were evaluated by energy dispersive spectroscopy. Lattice constants were derived from powder X‐ray diffraction analysis by Rietveld method. Lattice constants of CuInS2 phase changed linearly at x ≥ 0.49. On the other hand, lattice constants of Cu2ZnSnS4 phase changed almost linearly at x ≤ 0.37. In Raman spectra, peak positions of A () or A1 () mode of Cu2ZnSnS4 phase changed toward the lower wavenumber side linearly with increasing x. A1 mode of CuInS2 phase became weaker with decreasing x, and disappeared below x = 0.49. In PL spectra measured at 15 K, broad peaks at about 1.26 eV were observed at 0.00 ≤ x ≤ 0.85.
Photoluminescence characterization of Cu2GeS3 bulk crystals
Authors: Aihara Naoya , Matsumoto Yusuke , Tanaka Kunihiko
Published: April 2017

The optical properties of Cu2GeS3 bulk crystals grown by chemical vapor transport were characterized using photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. PL spectra from the Cu2GeS3 bulk crystals were analyzed as functions of excitation power and temperature. The crystal structure of the PL measurement samples was determined as monoclinic Cu2GeS3 by Raman spectroscopy. The PL spectra contained two main bands of exciton (1.59 eV) and donor‐acceptor pair (DAP, 1.45–1.55 eV) recombination luminescence. In addition, phonon‐assisted transitions of bound excitons were observed on the DAP recombination luminescence. The exciton band was composed of free‐ and bound‐exciton luminescence. The thermal activation energy of the bound‐exciton luminescence was estimated to be about 9 meV. The activation energy of bound‐exciton luminescence was approximately identical to the peak energy difference of the free‐ and bound‐exciton luminescence.
Cytokine profiles of amyopathic dermatomyositis with interstitial lung diseases treated with mycophenolate
Authors: Hayashi Masachika , Aoki Ami , Asakawa Katsuaki , Sakagami Takuro , Kikuchi Toshiaki , Takada Toshinori
Published: April 2017

A 59‐year‐old Japanese man diagnosed with interstitial lung disease associated with amyopathic dermatomyositis with anti‐melanoma differentiation‐associated gene 5 (MDA‐5) antibodies was treated with intravenous methyl prednisolone (PSL) 1000 mg, oral PSL 1 mg/kg, and oral cyclosporin 200 mg daily. His respiratory condition worsened after treatment with two times of intravenous cyclophosphamide and another steroid pulse therapy as well as PSL and cyclosporin. Addition of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), 1.5 g daily improved PaO2
/FiO2
(PF) ratio of the patient from 294 to 360 at 4 weeks and 416 at 15 weeks after addition of MMF. We measured cytokine concentration in preserved serum taken at 11 and 7 weeks before addition of MMF and at 4, 11, and 15 weeks after MMF administration. Of the 28 cytokines evaluated, the concentrations of fibroblast growth factors‐2 (FGF‐2), chemokine (C‐X3‐C motif) ligand 1 (CX3CL1), interleukin (IL)‐1ra, IL‐17A, inducible protein 10 (IP‐10), and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1) decreased after addition of MMF. These results suggest that MMF may be beneficial to patients with interstitial lung disease by modification of the cytokine/growth factor protein expression.
The cobweb theorem and delays in adjusting supply in metals' markets
Authors: Glöser‐Chahoud Simon , Hartwig Johannes , Wheat I. David , Faulstich Martin
Published: April 2017

Global industrial metal markets have experienced a drastic price decline over the past years. In this paper we link the dynamics of raw material markets and commodity price fluctuations to a delayed adjustment of supply. Drawing on the classical cobweb theorem we show how the implementation of this theorem using system dynamics may yield a valuable explanation, not only for the recent price decline, but also for possible future price movements. Starting from a simple cobweb model of general industrial markets, we couple the price‐adjusting mechanics to the global copper market and demonstrate how a simple market model can be merged with a physical material flow model. This model captures both market dynamics and technical aspects of raw material processing, recycling and substitution and adds an explanation for the widely accepted fact that the cost structure of the copper industry cannot explain current price levels. Finally, we compare the system dynamics forecasting model with a traditional econometric forecasting method and found the system dynamics model to be more intuitive and better suited to capture and convey the structural market fundamentals. Copyright © 2017 System Dynamics Society
Enhancing Performance of Large‐Area Organic Solar Cells with Thick Film via Ternary Strategy
Authors: Zhang Jianqi , Zhao Yifan , Fang Jin , Yuan Liu , Xia Benzheng , Wang Guodong , Wang Zaiyu , Zhang Yajie , Ma Wei , Yan Wei , Su Wenming , Wei Zhixiang
Published: April 2017

Large‐scale fabrication of organic solar cells requires an active layer with high thickness tolerability and the use of environment‐friendly solvents. Thick films with high‐performance can be achieved via a ternary strategy studied herein. The ternary system consists of one polymer donor, one small molecule donor, and one fullerene acceptor. The small molecule enhances the crystallinity and face‐on orientation of the active layer, leading to improved thickness tolerability compared with that of a polymer‐fullerene binary system. An active layer with 270 nm thickness exhibits an average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.78%, while the PCE is less than 8% with such thick film for binary system. Furthermore, large‐area devices are successfully fabricated using polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/Silver gride or indium tin oxide (ITO)‐based transparent flexible substrates. The product shows a high PCE of 8.28% with an area of 1.25 cm2 for a single cell and 5.18% for a 20 cm2 module. This study demonstrates that ternary organic solar cells exhibit great potential for large‐scale fabrication and future applications.
PHOEBE: an automation framework for the effective usage of diagnosis tools in the performance testing of clustered systems
Authors: Portillo‐Dominguez A. Omar , Perry Philip , Magoni Damien , Murphy John
Published: April 2017

The identification of performance issues and the diagnosis of their root causes are time‐consuming and complex tasks, especially in clustered environments. To simplify these tasks, researchers have been developing tools with built‐in expertise for practitioners. However, various limitations exist in these tools that prevent their efficient usage in the performance testing of clusters (e.g. the need of manually analysing huge volumes of distributed results). In a previous work, we introduced a policy‐based adaptive framework (PHOEBE) that automates the usage of diagnosis tools in the performance testing of clustered systems, in order to improve a tester's productivity, by decreasing the effort and expertise needed to effectively use such tools. This paper extends that work by broadening the set of policies available in PHOEBE, as well as by performing a comprehensive assessment of PHOEBE in terms of its benefits, costs and generality (with respect to the used diagnosis tool). The performed evaluation involved a set of experiments in assessing the different trade‐offs commonly experienced by a tester when using a performance diagnosis tool, as well as the time savings that PHOEBE can bring to the performance testing and analysis processes. Our results have shown that PHOEBE can drastically reduce the effort required by a tester to do performance testing and analysis in a cluster. PHOEBE also exhibited consistent behaviour (i.e. similar time‐savings and resource utilisations), when applied to a set of commonly used diagnosis tools, demonstrating its generality. Finally, PHOEBE proved to be capable of simplifying the configuration of a diagnosis tool. This was achieved by addressing the identified trade‐offs without the need for manual intervention from the tester. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Why a Systems Thinking Perspective on Cognition Matters for Innovation and Knowledge Creation. A Framework towards Leaving behind Our Projections from the Past for Creating New Futures
Authors: Grisold Thomas , Peschl Markus F.
Published: April 2017

We propose a systems perspective on the cognitive foundations of innovation and knowledge creation. We show that the (standard) way we perceive, think and act is opposed to creating (radically) new knowledge. For example, the predictive coding paradigm claims that our brain is a highly complex ‘prediction machine’ being mainly driven by its past experiences. Although this claim may initially seem counterintuitive from a systems thinking perspective, we will show in the first part of this paper that a systems thinking perspective provides a well‐suited framework to explain this phenomenon. The second part proposes a framework to overcome these limitations of our common way of thinking and perceiving in the context of creating novelty. We argue that, in order to create (radically) new knowledge, we can (i) modify the knowledge structures underlying our perception of the world and (ii) affect the way we perceive our environment. We present a framework as well as concrete strategies and tools to do so. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alpha-Ketoglutarate Curbs Differentiation and Induces Cell Death in Mesenchymal Stromal Precursors with Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Singh Karmveer , Krug Linda , Basu Abhijit , Meyer Patrick , Treiber Nicolai , Vander Beken Seppe , Wlaschek Meinhard , Kochanek Stefan , Bloch Wilhelm , Geiger Hartmut , Maity Pallab , Scharffetter-Kochanek Karin
Published: April 2017

Increased concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) originating from dysfunctional mitochondria contribute to diverse aging-related degenerative disorders. But so far little is known about the impact of distinct ROS on metabolism and fate of stromal precursor cells. Here, we demonstrate that an increase in superoxide anion radicals due to superoxide dismutase 2 (Sod2) deficiency in stromal precursor cells suppress osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation through fundamental changes in the global metabolite landscape. Our data identify impairment of the pyruvate and l-glutamine metabolism causing toxic accumulation of alpha-ketoglutarate in the Sod2-deficient and intrinsically aged stromal precursor cells as a major cause for their reduced lineage differentiation. Alpha-ketoglutarate accumulation led to enhanced nucleocytoplasmic vacuolation and chromatin condensation-mediated cell death in Sod2-deficient stromal precursor cells as a consequence of DNA damage, Hif-1α instability, and reduced histone H3 (Lys27) acetylation. These findings hold promise for prevention and treatment of mitochondrial disorders commonly associated with aged individuals.
Complex Systems Theory as a Shared Discourse Space for TESOL
Authors: Kostoulas Achilleas , Stelma Juup , Mercer Sarah , Cameron Lynne , Dawson Susan
Published: April 2017

In this article, the researchers explore how insights from complex systems theory might resonate with the experience of TESOL practitioners and argue that complexity can function as a shared discourse space where connections might be drawn between research and practice. The article grew out of a meeting between TESOL practitioners and researchers at the Manchester Roundtable on Complexity Theory and English Language Teaching. It builds on that discussion by exploring how language education practices and processes that are familiar to education practitioners and researchers can be understood in complexity‐informed terms. To that end, the researchers outline elements of complex systems theory that can be shown to resonate with what TESOL educators already know. These include a discussion of what complex systems are, how they operate, and how they evolve, all of which are illustrated with examples from research and language education experiences. The authors show that the complexity‐informed perspective they outline can provide teachers and researchers alike with an interpretive frame that may make more accessible the interconnected, sometimes unpredictable, invariably creative, and intuitively recognisable nature of language education.
Effectiveness of 12–13‐week scan for early diagnosis of fetal congenital anomalies in the cell‐free DNA era
Authors: Kenkhuis M. J. A. , Bakker M. , Bardi F. , Fontanella F. , Bakker M. K. , Fleurke‐Rozema J. H. , Bilardo C. M.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

The main aim of this study was to assess the proportion and type of congenital anomalies, both structural and chromosomal, that can be detected at an early scan performed at 12–13 weeks' gestation, compared with at the 20‐week structural anomaly scan offered under the present screening policy. Secondary aims were to evaluate the incidence of false‐positive findings and ultrasound markers at both scans, and parental choice regarding termination of pregnancy (TOP).

Methods

Sonographers accredited for nuchal translucency (NT) measurement were asked to participate in the study after undergoing additional training to improve their skills in late first‐trimester fetal anatomy examination. The early scans were performed according to a structured protocol, in six ultrasound practices and two referral centers in the north‐east of The Netherlands. All women opting for the combined test (CT) or with an increased a‐priori risk of fetal anomalies were offered a scan at 12–13 weeks' gestation (study group). All women with a continuing pregnancy were offered, as part of the ‘usual care’, a 20‐week anomaly scan.

Results

The study group consisted of 5237 women opting for the CT and 297 women with an increased a‐priori risk of anomalies (total, 5534). In total, 51 structural and 34 chromosomal anomalies were detected prenatally in the study population, and 18 additional structural anomalies were detected after birth. Overall, 54/85 (63.5%) anomalies were detected at the early scan (23/51 (45.1%) structural and all chromosomal anomalies presenting with either an increased risk at first‐trimester screening or structural anomalies (31/34)). All particularly severe anomalies were detected at the early scan (all cases of neural tube defect, omphalocele, megacystis, and multiple severe congenital and severe skeletal anomalies). NT was increased in 12/23 (52.2%) cases of structural anomaly detected at the early scan. Of the 12 cases of heart defects, four (33.3%) were detected at the early scan, five (41.7%) at the 20‐week scan and three (25.0%) after birth. False‐positive diagnoses at the early scan and at the 20‐week scan occurred in 0.1% and 0.6% of cases, respectively, whereas ultrasound markers were detected in 1.4% and 3.0% of cases, respectively. After first‐ or second‐trimester diagnosis of an anomaly, parents elected TOP in 83.3% and 25.8% of cases, respectively.

Conclusions

An early scan performed at 12–13 weeks' gestation by a competent sonographer can detect about half of the prenatally detectable structural anomalies and 100% of those expected to be detected at this stage. Particularly severe anomalies, often causing parents to choose TOP, are amenable to early diagnosis. The early scan is an essential part of modern pregnancy care. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.