bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does psychosocial stress explain socioeconomic inequities in 9‐year weight gain among young women?
Authors: Ball Kylie , Schoenaker Danielle A.J.M. , Mishra Gita D.
Published: April 2017

Objective

This study investigated the contribution of psychosocial stress to mediating inequities in weight gain by educational status in a large cohort of young Australian women over a 9‐year follow‐up.

Methods

This observational cohort study used survey data drawn from 4,806 women, aged 22 to 27 years at baseline (2000), participating in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health, who reported their education level (2000), perceived stress (2003), and weight (2003 and 2012). Using a causal inference framework based on counterfactuals for mediation analysis, we fitted linear or logistic regression models to examine the total effect, decomposed into natural direct and indirect effects via perceived stress, of education level (highest qualification completed: up to year 12/trade or diploma vs. university) on weight change.

Results

Women with lower education gained more weight over 9 years (6.1 kg, standard deviation [SD] 9.5) than women with higher education (3.8 kg, SD 7.7; P < 0.0001) and were more likely to be very or extremely stressed. The higher weight gain associated with low education was not mediated through perceived stress (per SD increase, percent mediated: 1.0%).

Conclusions

Education‐based inequities in weight gain over time were not attributable to greater psychosocial stress among women with lower education levels.
Metabolomic profiling distinction of human nonalcoholic fatty liver disease progression from a common rat model
Authors: Han JianHua , Dzierlenga Anika L. , Lu Zhengqiang , Billheimer Dean D. , Torabzadeh Elmira , Lake April D. , Li Hui , Novak Petr , Shipkova Petia , Aranibar Nelly , Robertson Donald , Reily Michael D. , Lehman‐McKeeman Lois D. , Cherrington Nathan J.
Published: April 2017

Objective

Characteristic pathological changes define the progression of steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and are correlated to metabolic pathways. A common rodent model of NASH is the methionine and choline deficient (MCD) diet. The objective of this study was to perform full metabolomic analyses on liver samples to determine which pathways are altered most pronouncedly in this condition in humans, and to compare these changes to rodent models of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

A principal component analysis for all 91 metabolites measured indicated that metabolome perturbation is greater and less varied for humans than for rodents.

Results

Metabolome changes in human and rat NAFLD were greatest for the amino acid and bile acid metabolite families (e.g., asparagine, citrulline, gamma‐aminobutyric acid, lysine); although, in many cases, the trends were reversed when compared between species (cholic acid, betaine).

Conclusions

Overall, these results indicate that metabolites of specific pathways may be useful biomarkers for NASH progression, although these markers may not correspond to rodent NASH models. The MCD model may be useful when studying certain end points of NASH; however, the metabolomics results indicate important differences between humans and rodents in the biochemical pathogenesis of the disease.
Understanding predictors of continued long‐term pediatric cancer care across the region: A report from the Consortium for New England Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Welch Jennifer J. G. , Kenney Lisa B. , Hirway Priya , Usmani G. Naheed , Kadan‐Lottick Nina , Grewal Satkiran S. , Huang Mary , Bradeen Heather , Ader Jeremy , Diller Lisa , Schwartz Cindy L.
Published: April 2017

Background

Many survivors of childhood cancer do not receive recommended longitudinal oncology care. Factors present at the time of childhood cancer diagnosis may identify patients who are vulnerable to poor adherence to follow‐up.

Methods

This cohort of survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) diagnosed from 1996 to 1999 at seven Consortium for New England Childhood Cancer Survivors institutions was evaluated for attendance at oncology clinics at 5 and 10 years from diagnosis. Demographic, socioeconomic, disease, and treatment characteristics were analyzed as risk factors for nonadherence to follow‐up.

Results

Of 317 patients, 90% were alive 5 years from diagnosis and 88% of those remained in active follow‐up. At 10 years from diagnosis, 88% were alive, 73% of whom continued in active follow‐up. Insurance status at diagnosis was significantly associated with adherence at both 5 and 10 years. At 10 years, initial enrollment on therapeutic study was associated with increased attendance and central nervous system (CNS) leukemia with decreased attendance. In multivariable modeling of follow‐up at 5 years, patients who were adults were less likely to participate and those with private insurance at diagnosis more likely to participate. At 10 years, insurance status at diagnosis remained a predictor of adherence to follow‐up.

Conclusions

In this regional cohort, many patients who are survivors of ALL continue to participate in oncology care at 5 and 10 years from diagnosis. Factors known at diagnosis including insurance status, CNS leukemia, older age, and enrollment on therapeutic study were associated with differential attendance to follow‐up visits.
The clinical severity of hemoglobin S/Black (Aγδβ)0‐thalassemia
Authors: Cancio Maria I. , Aygun Banu , Chui David H. K. , Rothman Jennifer A. , Scott J. Paul , Estepp Jeremie H. , Hankins Jane S.
Published: April 2017

Hemoglobin S/Black (Aγδβ)0‐thalassemia is a rare sickle cell disease (SCD) variant. On the basis of limited descriptions in the literature, the disease is reported as a mild microcytic anemia with an uncomplicated course. We report the clinical and laboratory data of nine patients whose diagnoses were confirmed by DNA‐based techniques. Despite having mild anemia and high fetal hemoglobin level postinfancy, these patients developed many of the classic complications of SCD, including vaso‐occlusive crisis, acute chest syndrome, avascular necrosis, and cholelithiasis. On the basis of these findings, we recommend that patients with this rare disorder receive specialized hematology care according to SCD guidelines.
Clinical outcome of childhood chronic immune thrombocytopenia: A 38‐year experience from a single tertiary center in Thailand
Authors: Chotsampancharoen Thirachit , Sripornsawan Pornpun , Duangchoo Sarapee , Wongchanchailert Malai , McNeil Edward
Published: April 2017

Background

There is limited information on long‐term follow‐up and prognostic factors for remission among children diagnosed with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). The aim of this study was to determine clinical outcomes and factors influencing remission in childhood chronic ITP.

Study Design

The hospital records of children aged 0–15 years diagnosed with chronic ITP were retrospectively reviewed. Kaplan–Meier curves were fit to estimate the median time to complete remission with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to identify independent factors for remission.

Results

A total of 113 patients were included in the analysis. The number of children achieving complete remission was 49 (46%) and the median time to remission was 7.1 years (95% CI: 4.8–11.0). The remission rates at 3, 5, 10, and 20 years were 25, 43, 60, and 75%, respectively. Factors influencing remission were platelets >60 × 109/L at the onset of chronic ITP (hazard ratio [HR]: 7.24, 95% CI: 3.0–17.5) and treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (HR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.16–0.84). Age, gender, and clinical factors at the time of newly diagnosed ITP including bleeding manifestations, onset of symptoms, and history of preceding infection and vaccination were not predictive of remission.

Conclusion

The spontaneous complete remission rates of chronic ITP were 43 and 60% at 5 and 10 years, respectively, and reached 75% at 20 years. A higher platelet level at diagnosis of chronic ITP and form of treatment were statistically significant indicators for achieving complete remission.
Central nervous system disease in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Johnston Donna L. , Alonzo Todd A. , Gerbing Robert B. , Aplenc Richard , Woods William G. , Meshinchi Soheil , Gamis Alan S.
Published: April 2017

Background

The prognostic impact of central nervous system (CNS) involvement in children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has varied in past trials, and controversy exists over the degree of involvement requiring intensified CNS therapy. Two recent Children's Oncology Group protocols, AAML03P1 and AAML0531, directed additional intrathecal (IT) therapy to patients with CNS2 (≤5 white blood cell [WBC] with blasts) or CNS3 (>5 WBC with blasts or CNS symptoms) disease at diagnosis.

Methods

We examined disease characteristics and outcomes of the 1,344 patients on these protocols, 949 with CNS1 (no blasts), 217 with CNS2, and 178 with CNS3, with the latter two receiving additional IT therapy.

Results

Young age (P = 0.003), hyperleukocytosis (P < 0.001), and the presence of inversion 16 (P < 0.001) were the only factors more prevalent in patients with CNS2 or CNS3 disease. Complete remission at the end of induction (EOI) 2 was achieved less often in patients with CNS involvement (P < 0.001). From diagnosis, event‐free survival (EFS) for patients with CNS involvement was significantly worse (P < 0.001), whereas overall survival (OS) was not (P = 0.16). From the EOI1, there was a higher relapse rate (RR) and worse disease‐free survival (DFS), but less impact on OS (CNS1:DFS 58.9%, RR 34.1%, OS 69.3%; CNS2:DFS 53.2%, RR 40.9%, OS 74.7%; CNS3:DFS 45.2%, RR 48.8%, OS 60.8%; P = 0.006, P < 0.001, P = 0.045, respectively). Multivariable analysis showed that independently CNS2 and CNS3 status adversely affected RR and DFS. Traumatic diagnostic lumbar puncture was not associated with worse outcome.

Conclusions

CNS leukemia confers greater relapse risk despite more aggressive locally directed therapy. Novel approaches need to be investigated in this group of patients.
Physico‐mechanical properties of gamma‐irradiated clay/polyester nanocomposites
Authors: Abdel‐Rahman H.A. , Younes M.M. , Yassene Ali A. M.
Published: April 2017

In this study both uncalcined and calcined nanoclays (NC) were used as reinforcements for unsaturated polyester resin (UP).The nanoclay/unsaturated polyester composites (NC‐UP) were produced at various nanoclay contents (0, 3, 5, and 10 wt%) under the effect of two different doses of gamma rays 30 and 50 kGy. The mechanical and thermal properties of NC‐UP composites were studied. The compressive strength values of (NC‐UP) composites were found to increase with increasing the nanoclay content up to 5 wt%. Above 5 wt% of nanoclay, the compressive strength was decreased for the two different irradiation doses. Thermogravimetric analysis was carried out to determine the thermal stability and activation energy of the unsaturated polyester resin and its composites. The results also showed an enhancement in the thermal behavior of the composites with increasing nanoclay content. At a dose of 50 kGy, the addition of 5% nanoclay to unsaturated polyester increases the activation energy from 77 to 110 and 91 kJ/mol for uncalcined and calcined clay, respectively. The dispersion of nanoclay particles in polyester matrix was observed by scanning electron microscopy. The results clearly showed that, the calcination of the nanoclay content caused a desired effect on the final properties of NC‐UP composites as compared to the uncalcined nanocaly. The utilization of a higher gammairradiation dose (50 kGy) showed a good improvement in the thermal and mechanical properties as compared to the specimens irradiated at a dose of 30 kGy. The results are also confirmed by X‐ray diffraction analysis. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3666–3675, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Characterization of multi‐stitched woven nano composites under compression after low velocity impact (CALVI) load
Authors: Bilisik Kadir
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this research was to determine the compression after low velocity impact (CALVI) properties of multi‐stitched nano composite. It was obtained that the CALVI strength of the multi‐stitched nano composite was higher than that of the unstitched composites with or without the nanomaterial. In addition, stitching types (hand stitch or machine stitch) and the particle size of nanomaterial or micro material types were found to be important structural parameters for the multi‐stitched nano composites. The CALVI load applied on the multi‐stitched nano composite resulted in lateral damages close to the impacted indentation region. The failure modes of the damaged zone were local matrix‐fiber debonding and delamination, kinking, and local multiple matrix‐fiber breakages in the in‐plane and out‐of‐plane directions of the composite. Multi‐stitched nano composite showed large damaged areas but the out‐of‐plane layer delamination was confined to relatively small areas. Thus, multi‐stitching and nano particle addition enhanced the CALVI properties of the composite structures. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3750–3764, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Self‐management strategies used by head and neck cancer survivors following completion of primary treatment: A directed content analysis
Authors: Dunne Simon , Mooney Orla , Coffey Laura , Sharp Linda , Timmons Aileen , Desmond Deirdre , Gooberman‐Hill Rachael , O'Sullivan Eleanor , Keogh Ivan , Timon Conrad , Gallagher Pamela
Published: April 2017

Objective

Head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors encounter unique challenges following treatment. This study aimed to identify self‐management strategies that HNC survivors use to overcome these posttreatment challenges.

Methods

Twenty‐seven individuals from 4 designated cancer centres in Ireland were interviewed about self‐management strategies that helped them overcome challenges following HNC treatment. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed, and analysed using directed content analysis.

Results

Twenty self‐management strategy types (encompassing 77 specific strategies) were identified. The most frequently used self‐management strategy types were self‐sustaining (used by 26 survivors), self‐motivating (n = 25), and proactive problem solving (n = 25). The most frequently used specific strategies were adaptive approaches to ongoing physical consequences of HNC and its treatment (n = 24), customising dietary practices (n = 24), and maintaining a positive outlook (n = 22).

Conclusions

The study identified strategies that helped HNC survivors to self‐manage posttreatment challenges. This information could inform the design/development of self‐management interventions tailored towards HNC survivors.
Proteomic profiling identifies novel circulating markers associated with bronchiectasis in cystic fibrosis
Authors: DeBoer Emily M. , Kroehl Miranda E. , Wagner Brandie D. , Accurso Frank J. , Harris J. Kirk , Lynch David A. , Sagel Scott D. , Deterding Robin R.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Evaluate bronchiectasis change over 1 year in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) and find blood proteins associated with bronchiectasis.

Experimental design

Pilot study of CF children who had chest computed tomography (CT) scans and blood collected during times of clinical stability. Blood plasma was analyzed for 1129 proteins using SOMAmer®, the SOMAscan proteomics platform. Bronchiectasis was measured on two CT scans collected 1 year apart. Spearman's rank estimated the correlations between outcomes. Clinical relevance was defined as |r| >0.40.

Results

There were 26 children included: mean age 11.3 years (SD 2.4 years), mean Brody Bronchiectasis score 0.65 (SD 0.83), mean airway count 14.3 (SD 5.7) per CT slice. Brody bronchiectasis change over 1 year ranged from −1.0 to 1.9 and airway count change over one year ranged from −7.7 to 13.5 airways per slice. Proteins related to inflammation and extracellular matrix degradation were associated with cross‐sectional and longitudinal structural changes.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Imaging outcomes were more strongly correlated with circulating proteins than age or spirometry values. The unique SOMAscan proteomic platform identifies several novel proteins in blood that are associated with bronchiectasis and that may serve as clinically useful biomarkers in children with CF.
Blood‐based protein biomarkers for stroke differentiation: A systematic review
Authors: Misra Shubham , Kumar Amit , Kumar Pradeep , Yadav Arun K , Mohania Dheeraj , Pandit Awadh K , Prasad Kameshwar , Vibha Deepti
Published: April 2017

Computed tomography (CT) scan is the mainstay for diagnosis of stroke; but the facility of CT scan is not easily available. A blood‐based biomarker approach is required to distinguish ischemic stroke (IS) from hemorrhagic stroke (HS) in pre‐hospital settings.To conduct a systematic review of diagnostic utility of blood biomarkers for differential diagnosis of stroke.A comprehensive literature search was carried out till March 7, 2017 in PubMed, Cochrane, Medline, OVID, and Google Scholar databases. Methodological quality of each study was assessed using the modified Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies questionnaire.Eighteen studies were identified relevant to our systematic review. Ten single biomarkers and seven panels of different biomarkers were identified which showed potential for differentiating IS and HS. Activated Protein C‐ Protein C Inhibitor Complex (APC‐PCI) (sensitivity‐96%), Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) (specificity‐100%) and a panel of APC‐PCI & GFAP (sensitivity‐ 71%) and Retinol Binding Protein 4 (RBP4) & GFAP (specificity‐ 100%) were found to have high sensitivity and specificity for differentiating the two stroke types.Our systematic review does not recommend the use of any blood biomarker for clinical purposes yet based on the studies conducted till date.
Wafer‐scale epitaxial lift‐off of GaN using bandgap‐selective photoenhanced wet etching
Authors: Youtsey Chris , McCarthy Robert , Reddy Rekha , Forghani Kamran , Xie Andy , Beam Ed , Wang Jingshan , Fay Patrick , Ciarkowski Timothy , Carlson Eric , Guido Louis
Published: April 2017

An epitaxial lift‐off (ELO) process for GaN materials has been demonstrated using bandgap‐selective photoenhanced wet etching of an InGaN release layer. This process has been applied to GaN layers grown on sapphire as well as native GaN substrates using a perforation technique to scale the process up to wafers of arbitrary size. The process has the advantage of leveraging conventional MOCVD growth to form the release layer, with minimal degradation of films grown on top of the release layer. The ELO process is non‐destructive and can enable cost reduction through reuse of the native GaN substrate after ELO. The GaN films have been characterized before and after ELO using AFM, SEM, XRD, TEM and by fabricating Schottky barrier diodes. The performance of Schottky diodes fabricated on GaN‐on‐sapphire structures was found to improve after ELO. Potential applications for this technology include GaN power and optoelectronic devices as well as flexible electronics.

Shown is a 5‐micron‐thick GaN epitaxial film released from a 4‐inch sapphire substrate using perforations on a 1‐mm pitch. The yellow luminescence of the nitrogen face of the released film is visible under ultraviolet illumination.
Design, integration, and field evaluation of a robotic apple harvester
Authors: Silwal Abhisesh , Davidson Joseph R. , Karkee Manoj , Mo Changki , Zhang Qin , Lewis Karen
Published: April 2017

Every apple destined for the fresh market is picked by the human hand. Despite extensive research over the past four decades, there are no mechanical apple harvesters for the fresh market commercially available, which is a significant concern because of increasing uncertainty about the availability of manual labor and rising production costs. The highly unstructured orchard environment has been a major challenge to the development of commercially viable robotic harvesting systems. This paper reports the design and field evaluation of a robotic apple harvester. The approach adopted was to use a low‐cost system to assess required sensing, planning, and manipulation functionality in a modern orchard system with a planar canopy. The system was tested in a commercial apple orchard in Washington State. Workspace modifications and performance criteria are thoroughly defined and reported to help evaluate the approach and guide future enhancements. The machine vision system was accurate and had an average localization time of 1.5 s per fruit. The seven degree of freedom harvesting system successfully picked 127 of the 150 fruit attempted for an overall success rate of 84% with an average picking time of 6.0 s per fruit. Future work will include integration of additional sensing and obstacle detection for improved system robustness.
Epistemic Processing When Adolescents Read Online: A Verbal Protocol Analysis of More and Less Successful Online Readers
Authors: Cho Byeong‐Young , Woodward Lindsay , Li Dan
Published: April 2017

This study examines how the beliefs that adolescent readers hold about knowledge and knowing are activated during online reading. The research questions center on the pattern of these readers’ epistemic processes through which more or less productive learning occurs. High school students performed a critical online reading task on a controversial topic; 10 more successful readers and 10 less successful readers were then selected based on their topic knowledge gain and the quality of the questions that they constructed in response to their online reading. The epistemic processes of these two groups’ 20 readers were inferred from their concurrent verbal reports. Verbal reports were coded and classified qualitatively until concrete types of epistemic processing were recognized; the coded data were then quantified for statistical group comparisons to identify and interpret emerging patterns. The results indicated that more successful online readers tended to engage in higher order epistemic processes when judging information sources, monitoring their knowing processes, and regulating their alternative knowledge‐seeking actions, whereas the epistemic actions of their less successful counterparts were more often disconnected and tended to function at a surface level. Cross‐categorical associations were found among epistemic judgment, monitoring, and regulation, suggesting that epistemic processes operate interactively. Implications of the study's results are discussed in relation to literacy research and practice.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Time to Change the Name!
Authors: Caplan Arnold I.
Published: April 2017

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were officially named more than 25 years ago to represent a class of cells from human and mammalian bone marrow and periosteum that could be isolated and expanded in culture while maintaining their in vitro capacity to be induced to form a variety of mesodermal phenotypes and tissues. The in vitro capacity to form bone, cartilage, fat, etc., became an assay for identifying this class of multipotent cells and around which several companies were formed in the 1990s to medically exploit the regenerative capabilities of MSCs. Today, there are hundreds of clinics and hundreds of clinical trials using human MSCs with very few, if any, focusing on the in vitro multipotential capacities of these cells. Unfortunately, the fact that MSCs are called “stem cells” is being used to infer that patients will receive direct medical benefit, because they imagine that these cells will differentiate into regenerating tissue-producing cells. Such a stem cell treatment will presumably cure the patient of their medically relevant difficulties ranging from osteoarthritic (bone-on-bone) knees to various neurological maladies including dementia. I now urge that we change the name of MSCs to Medicinal Signaling Cells to more accurately reflect the fact that these cells home in on sites of injury or disease and secrete bioactive factors that are immunomodulatory and trophic (regenerative) meaning that these cells make therapeutic drugs in situ that are medicinal. It is, indeed, the patient's own site-specific and tissue-specific resident stem cells that construct the new tissue as stimulated by the bioactive factors secreted by the exogenously supplied MSCs.
Molecular‐Iodine‐Catalyzed Transformation of Benzyl Amines to N‐Benzyl Benzamides via Oxidative Dehydrogenation/A2 like Self‐Coupling and Hydration under Metal‐Free Mild Conditions
Authors: Saha Arijit , Payra Soumen , Banerjee Subhash
Published: April 2017

An efficient protocol for the transformation of benzyl amines to N‐benzyl benzamides through oxidative dehydrogenation, A2 like self coupling and hydration has been developed using mild I2/TBHP catalytic system under metal‐free conditions.
In Situ Preparation of Polyethylene Glycol/ Silver Nanoparticles Composite Phase Change Materials with Enhanced Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Liang Weidong , Wang Lina , Zhu Zhaoqi , Qian Chen , Sun Hanxue , Yang Baoping , Li An
Published: April 2017

Phase change materials (PCMs) have been widely used as efficient materials in latent heat thermal storage systems for various applications. The poor thermal conductivity of most organic PCMs, however, has long been considered as one of big obstacles hindering their practical applications. Here, we report the first example of in situ reduction of AgNO3 precursor by PEG for preparation of polyethylene glycol/silver nanoparticles (PEG/Ag) PCMs nanocomposites with enhanced thermal conductivity only though a simple blending and heating process, without using any complicated techniques. The prepared Ag nanoparticles show a well dispersion in PEG matrix and the Ag is mainly existed in a zero of valence status. As expected, a maximum value of 211.7 % of that of pure PEG in thermal conductivities of the resulting PEG/Ag PCMs were achieved. The latent heat for PEG/Ag PCMs nanocomposites were evaluated in the range from 121.9 J g−1 to 141.9 J g−1. Owing to high latent heat and excellent thermal conductivity, such PEG/Ag PCMs may have great potentials for energy saving applications. Especially, the in situ preparation of PEG/Ag makes it possible for site operation and scaled‐up production, which is of great technologically significance for realization of PCMs into real applications.
Zinc(II) Hexafluoroacetylacetonate Complexes of Alkoxyamines: NMR and Kinetic Investigations. First Step for a New Way to Prepare Hybrid Materials.
Authors: Audran Gérard , Bagryanskaya Elena , Bagryanskaya Irina , Edeleva Mariya , Marque Sylvain R. A. , Parkhomenko Dmitriy , Tretyakov Evgeny , Zhivetyeva Svetlana
Published: April 2017

A series of Zn(hfac)2 alkoxyamines (diethyl(2,2‐dimethyl‐1‐(tert‐butyl‐(1‐pyridylethoxy)amino)propyl)phosphonate) coordinated at ortho, meta and para positions of their pyridyl moiety were prepared and their homolysis rate constants kd measured. Up to a 30‐fold increase in kd was observed for the meta‐(Zn‐RR/SS) and para‐(Zn‐RR/SS) regioisomers. Moreover, the activation is also controlled by the amount of pyridine, used as a ligand competitor. XRD, 1H and 31P NMR spectra show very different structures for each complexes in solid state and in solution depending on the diastereosiomers and on the regioisomers.
A Metal‐Free Based New Approach to 2,4‐Disubstituted Pyridines via One‐Pot Sequential Reaction of Cyclic Sulfamidate Imines with β‐Substituted Acroleins
Authors: Majee Debashis , Guin Soumitra , Biswas Soumen , Samanta Sampak
Published: April 2017

A novel and efficient L‐proline catalyzed Michael reaction of several 4‐aryl/heteroaryl‐substituted cyclic sulfamidate imines with a variety of β‐styryl/aryl/alkyl‐substituted acroleins, followed by in situ elimination‐iminocyclization‐dehydration sequence process in the presence of DABCO as a base is reported for the first time. By this unconventional one‐pot sequential protocol, a number of 2‐aryl/heteroaryl‐4‐styrylpyridines and 2,4‐diarylpyridines have been prepared in good to high yields under metal‐free conditions. Besides, the synthesized 4‐styrylpyridine derivatives were also further utilized for the synthesis of commercially as well as pharmaceutically important 2‐arylisonicotinic acids.
31P NMR Characterization of Tricin and Its Structurally Similar Flavonoids
Authors: Li Mi , Pu Yunqiao , Tschaplinski Timothy J. , Ragauskas Arthur J.
Published: April 2017

Abstract: Tricin, a flavonoid metabolite, has been recently identified as a component of lignin in select monocot plants. This finding has initiated consideration on updating the lignin biosynthesis pathway. We here report a rapid method of determination of tricin in corn stover lignin, based on 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy by phosphitylating with 2‐chloro‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethyl‐1,3,2‐dioxaphospholane (TMDP). Nine other flavonoids, with similar structure to tricin, have also been examined using the current method. The application of 31P NMR enables rapid identification of tricin‐like flavonoids in the heterogeneous lignin polymer. The well resolved spectroscopic peaks from these derivatized flavonoids and lignin functional groups provide important information for the determination of flavonoids individually or their association with lignin.
(Indenyl)Iron Complex [(η5‐indenyl)Fe(η‐C6H6)]+: Synthesis, Arene Exchange Reactions and Bonding
Authors: Loginov Dmitry A. , Chamkin Alexander A. , Kharitonov Vladimir B. , Sovdagarova Elizaveta R. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Kudinov Alexander R.
Published: April 2017

The indenyl‐benzene complex [(η5‐indenyl)Fe(η‐C6H6)]+ (2) was synthesized by photochemical reaction of the cyclohexadienyl derivative [(η5‐C6H7)Fe(η‐C6H6)]+ and indenyl anion with the subsequent treatment of complex (η5‐C6H7)Fe(η5‐indenyl) formed by acetic acid. Visible light irradiation of cations [(η5‐indenyl)Fe(η6‐indene)]+ (1) or 2 in the presence of substituted benzenes in CH2Cl2 results in arene exchange giving [(η5‐indenyl)Fe(η6‐arene)]+ (arene=o‐xylene (3 a), mesitylene (3 b), hexamethylbenzene (3 c) and [2.2]paracyclophane (3 d)). The rate of this reaction is lower than for the related cyclopentadienyl complex [CpFe(η‐C6H6)]+. μ‐Pentaphospholyl triple‐decker complex [(η5‐indenyl)Fe(μ‐η:η‐cyclo‐P5)FeCp*]+ (4) was synthesized by photochemical reaction of 1 with Cp*Fe(η‐cyclo‐P5). The structures of 2PF6, 3 cPF6 and 4PF6 were determined by X‐ray diffraction. According to energy decomposition analysis, the metal‐benzene bonding in 2 is weaker than in [CpFe(η‐C6H6)]+ but stronger than in [Cp*Fe(η‐C6H6)]+. The mechanism of thermal benzene replacement in 2 and [CpFe(η‐C6H6)]+ as well as structure of excited state were analyzed by DFT calculations.
Practical Synthesis of both Enantiomeric Amino Acid, Mannich, and Aldol Derivatives by Asymmetric Organocatalysis
Authors: Liu Yan , Arumugam Natarajan , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Kumar Raju Suresh , Maruoka Keiji
Published: April 2017

In this account, we describe our recent developments in organocatalyzed asymmetric methodologies for the practical synthesis of both enantiomers. The synthesis of both enantiomeric products by using both enantiomeric catalysts is the most traditional way. In addition, use of two pseudoenantiomeric catalysts provides a more practical approach for the synthesis of both enantiomeric products. Even more efficient is the use of a single enantiomeric catalyst in the presence or absence of certain additives for obtaining both enantiomeric products. These three different strategies are illustrated by using certain organocatalyzed asymmetric approaches.
Prospective assessment of INTERGROWTH‐21st and World Health Organization estimated fetal weight reference curves
Authors: Cheng Y. K. Y. , Lu J. , Leung T. Y. , Chan Y. M. , Sahota D. S.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To assess the suitability of the new INTERGROWTH‐21st and World Health Organization (WHO) estimated fetal weight (EFW) references in a Southern Chinese population. A secondary aim was to determine the accuracy of EFW by assessing the difference between EFW and actual birth weight.

Methods

This was a prospective cross‐sectional cohort study. Viable singleton pregnancies at 11–13 weeks' gestation were recruited to undergo a single standardized fetal biometric scan after 20 weeks. The gestational age at which the scan was performed was allocated randomly at the time of recruitment. EFW was predicted using both the Hadlock and INTERGROWTH‐21st weight estimation model formulae. Population‐specific EFW references were constructed. Z‐scores were used to compare these references against the INTERGROWTH‐21st and WHO international size references. Gestational‐age‐adjusted projection was used to assess the difference between EFW on the day of delivery and birth weight for fetuses having biometry scans ≥ 34 weeks.

Results

Fetuses of 970 participants had biometry scans. The median number of scans per gestational week was 48 (interquartile range, 43–53). Z‐score comparison indicated that the WHO 10th, 50th and 90th centiles of the EFW reference were consistently higher than the corresponding local centiles, whilst the INTERGROWTH‐21st 10th centile was lower. Fewer than 2% of fetuses scanned at or after 34 weeks would be considered as potentially large‐for‐gestational age, irrespective of which model was used to predict weight. Adopting the WHO international reference would result in approximately one in six fetuses being regarded as potentially small‐for‐gestational age, 50% more than the number determined using a population‐specific reference. Systematic errors of extrapolated EFW were similar, ranging from 5.5% to 7.4%.

Conclusions

Centers seeking to use new references, such as the INTERGROWTH‐21st and/or WHO international references, as a means of determining whether a fetus is small‐ or large‐for‐gestational age, would be advised to assess the suitability of these references within their own population using standardized methodology. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Perinatal outcome and placental apoptosis in patients with late‐onset pre‐eclampsia and abnormal uterine artery Doppler at diagnosis
Authors: Rodríguez M. , Couve‐Pérez C. , San Martín S. , Martínez F. , Lozano C. , Sepúlveda‐Martínez A.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To determine the rate of placental apoptosis and adverse perinatal outcome in patients with late‐onset pre‐eclampsia (PE) and abnormal uterine artery (UtA) Doppler at diagnosis.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of women with singleton pregnancy diagnosed with late PE, performed between August 2011 and January 2014 at the Maternal‐Fetal Medicine Unit of Hospital Carlos Van Buren. Patients were stratified according to UtA Doppler status at diagnosis (pulsatility index (PI) ≤ or > 95th percentile). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify associations between abnormal UtA Doppler and adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. In a subset of this cohort for whom placental samples were available, immunohistochemical analysis of the placenta was performed to identify the rate of apoptosis and its association with UtA Doppler by comparing samples from those with normal and those with abnormal UtA Doppler and normotensive controls. Non‐parametric linear trend analysis was performed for assessment of the apoptotic index.

Results

Eighty‐six patients were included in the final analysis. Of these, UtA‐PI was above the 95th percentile in 33 (38.4%) patients. Gestational age at diagnosis and delivery were significantly lower in this group compared with patients with normal UtA Doppler. Abnormal UtA Doppler was associated with increased risk of severe PE (odds ratio (OR) = 7.5; 95% CI, 2.76–20.46; P < 0.001), late preterm delivery (OR = 13.7; 95% CI, 4.53–41.46; P < 0.001), small‐for‐gestational age at birth (OR = 12.3; 95% CI, 3.17–47.57; P < 0.001) and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (OR = 12.8; 95% CI, 2.61–62.36; P = 0.002). Moreover, UtA Z‐score demonstrated a significant inverse correlation with birth‐weight Z‐score (r = –0.34; P = 0.0013). Mean placental apoptotic index demonstrated an ascending linear trend according to UtA Doppler status (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

In patients with late PE, UtA Doppler was useful for clinical classification and as an indicator of placental histological findings. Correlation between UtA Doppler and the apoptotic index provides new evidence of a subgroup of late PE with a placental origin. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Rigidity theory for biomolecules: concepts, software, and applications
Authors: Hermans Susanne M.A. , Pfleger Christopher , Nutschel Christina , Hanke Christian A. , Gohlke Holger
Published: April 2017

The mechanical heterogeneity of biomolecular structures is intimately linked to their diverse biological functions. Applying rigidity theory to biomolecules identifies this heterogeneous composition of flexible and rigid regions, which can aid in the understanding of biomolecular stability and long‐ranged information transfer through biomolecules, and yield valuable information for rational drug design and protein engineering. We review fundamental concepts in rigidity theory, ways to represent biomolecules as constraint networks, and methodological and algorithmic developments for analyzing such networks and linking the results to biomolecular function. Software packages for performing rigidity analyses on biomolecules in an efficient, automated way are described, as are rigidity analyses on biomolecules including the ribosome, viruses, or transmembrane proteins. The analyses address questions of allosteric mechanisms, mutation effects on (thermo‐)stability, protein (un‐)folding, and coarse‐graining of biomolecules. We advocate that the application of rigidity theory to biomolecules has matured in such a way that it could be broadly applied as a computational biophysical method to scrutinize biomolecular function from a structure‐based point of view and to complement approaches focused on biomolecular dynamics. We discuss possibilities to improve constraint network representations and to perform large‐scale and prospective studies. WIREs Comput Mol Sci 2017, 7:e1311. doi: 10.1002/wcms.1311

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics

Computer and Information Science > Computer Algorithms and Programming

Software > Molecular Modeling
Incorporating pleiotropic quantitative trait loci in dissection of complex traits: seed yield in rapeseed as an example
Authors: Luo Ziliang , Wang Meng , Long Yan , Huang Yongju , Shi Lei , Zhang Chunyu , Liu Xiang , Fitt Bruce D. L. , Xiang Jinxia , Mason Annaliese S. , Snowdon Rod J. , Liu Peifa , Meng Jinling , Zou Jun
Published: April 2017

Key message

A comprehensive linkage atlas for seed yield in rapeseed.

Most agronomic traits of interest for crop improvement (including seed yield) are highly complex quantitative traits controlled by numerous genetic loci, which brings challenges for comprehensively capturing associated markers/genes. We propose that multiple trait interactions underlie complex traits such as seed yield, and that considering these component traits and their interactions can dissect individual quantitative trait loci (QTL) effects more effectively and improve yield predictions. Using a segregating rapeseed (Brassica napus) population, we analyzed a large set of trait data generated in 19 independent experiments to investigate correlations between seed yield and other complex traits, and further identified QTL in this population with a SNP-based genetic bin map. A total of 1904 consensus QTL accounting for 22 traits, including 80 QTL directly affecting seed yield, were anchored to the B. napus reference sequence. Through trait association analysis and QTL meta-analysis, we identified a total of 525 indivisible QTL that either directly or indirectly contributed to seed yield, of which 295 QTL were detected across multiple environments. A majority (81.5%) of the 525 QTL were pleiotropic. By considering associations between traits, we identified 25 yield-related QTL previously ignored due to contrasting genetic effects, as well as 31 QTL with minor complementary effects. Implementation of the 525 QTL in genomic prediction models improved seed yield prediction accuracy. Dissecting the genetic and phenotypic interrelationships underlying complex quantitative traits using this method will provide valuable insights for genomics-based crop improvement.
Perfusion Abnormalities are Frequently Detected by Early CT Perfusion and Predict Unfavourable Outcome Following Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Bendinelli Cino , Cooper Shannon , Evans Tiffany , Bivard Andrew , Pacey Dianne , Parson Mark , Balogh Zsolt J.
Published: April 2017

Background

In patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), early CT perfusion (CTP) provides additional information beyond the non‐contrast CT (NCCT) and may alter clinical management. We hypothesized that this information may prognosticate functional outcome.

Methods

Five‐year prospective observational study was performed in a level‐1 trauma centre on consecutive severe TBI patients. CTP (obtained in conjunction with first routine NCCT) was interpreted as: abnormal, area of altered perfusion more extensive than on NCCT, and the presence of ischaemia. Six months Glasgow Outcome Scale‐Extended of four or less was considered an unfavourable outcome. Logistic regression analysis of CTP findings and core variables [preintubation Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), Rotterdam score, base deficit, age] was conducted using Bayesian model averaging to identify the best predicting model for unfavourable outcome.

Results

Fifty patients were investigated with CTP (one excluded for the absence of TBI) [male: 80%, median age: 35 (23–55), prehospital intubation: 7 (14.2%); median GCS: 5 (3–7); median injury severity score: 29 (20–36); median head and neck abbreviated injury scale: 4 (4–5); median days in ICU: 10 (5–15)]. Thirty (50.8%) patients had an unfavourable outcome. GCS was a moderate predictor of unfavourable outcome (AUC = 0.74), while CTP variables showed greater predictive ability (AUC for abnormal CTP = 0.92; AUC for area of altered perfusion more extensive than NCCT = 0.83; AUC for the presence of ischaemia = 0.81).

Conclusion

Following severe TBI, CTP performed at the time of the first follow‐up NCCT, is a non‐invasive and extremely valuable tool for early outcome prediction. The potential impact on management and its cost effectiveness deserves to be evaluated in large‐scale studies.

Level of evidence III

Prospective study.
Trends in Economic Homogamy: Changes in Assortative Mating or the Division of Labor in Marriage?
Authors: Gonalons-Pons Pilar , Schwartz Christine R.
Published: April 2017

The growing economic resemblance of spouses has contributed to rising inequality by increasing the number of couples in which there are two high- or two low-earning partners. The dominant explanation for this trend is increased assortative mating. Previous research has primarily relied on cross-sectional data and thus has been unable to disentangle changes in assortative mating from changes in the division of spouses’ paid labor—a potentially key mechanism given the dramatic rise in wives’ labor supply. We use data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) to decompose the increase in the correlation between spouses’ earnings and its contribution to inequality between 1970 and 2013 into parts due to (a) changes in assortative mating, and (b) changes in the division of paid labor. Contrary to what has often been assumed, the rise of economic homogamy and its contribution to inequality is largely attributable to changes in the division of paid labor rather than changes in sorting on earnings or earnings potential. Our findings indicate that the rise of economic homogamy cannot be explained by hypotheses centered on meeting and matching opportunities, and they show where in this process inequality is generated and where it is not.
Cervical Ectropion May Be a Cause of Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis
Authors: Mitchell Leia , King Michelle , Brillhart Heather , Goldstein Andrew
Published: April 2017

Desquamative inflammatory vaginitis is a poorly understood chronic vaginitis with an unknown etiology. Symptoms of desquamative inflammatory vaginitis include copious yellowish discharge, vulvovaginal discomfort, and dyspareunia. Cervical ectropion, the presence of glandular columnar cells on the ectocervix, has not been reported as a cause of desquamative inflammatory vaginitis. Although cervical ectropion can be a normal clinical finding, it has been reported to cause leukorrhea, metrorrhagia, dyspareunia, and vulvovaginal irritation. Patients with cervical ectropion and desquamative inflammatory vaginitis are frequently misdiagnosed with candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis and repeatedly treated without resolution of symptoms. We report the case of a 34-year-old woman with a 4-year history of profuse yellowish discharge and dyspareunia. Upon presentation, her symptoms and laboratory results met the criteria for desquamative inflammatory vaginitis, but the standard treatments did not provide long-lasting relief. As a last resort, cryotherapy (cryosurgery) of her cervix was performed for treatment of her cervical ectropion, which provided complete resolution of her symptoms.

Mitchell L, King M, Brillhart H, Goldstein A. Cervical Ectropion May Be a Cause of Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis. Sex Med 2017;5:e212–e214.
The effects of pirfenidone on T helper cells in prevention of intraperitoneal adhesions
Authors: Ozbilgin Kemal , Üner Melis Aylin , Ozkut Mahmud , Hasdemir Pinar Solmaz
Published: April 2017

Abdominal surgery is linked with peritoneal adhesions. We investigated that the anti‐fibrotic agent pirfenidone (PFD) has immune modulating activities and evaluated its effects on the function of T helper type 1 (Th1), Th2 and T regulatory (Treg) cells, which may play important roles in peritoneal adhesions. Eighteen female Wistar rats underwent right‐sided parietal peritoneal and right uterine horn adhesion model. Rats were randomized into 3 groups as group 1 (control) (closure of midline abdominal incision without any agent administrations), group 2 (closure of incision after intraperitoneal administration of PFD) and group 3 (closure of incision and only oral administration of PFD for 14 days). Relaparotomy was performed 14 days after the first surgery. Effect of PFD on adhesion formation was assessed on Th1, Th2 and Treg cells counts using Anti‐T‐bet, Anti‐GATA‐3 Anti‐FOXP3 antibodies respectively. Th1 counts were moderate in the control group, and didn't show a significant difference between all groups. Th2 cell counts were very high in the control group, but both intraperitoneal and oral administration of PFD resulted in a significant reduction in Th2 cell counts. Treg cell counts were low in number in the control group. In the intraperitoneal administration of PFD group, Treg cell counts were significantly lower than control group. There was no difference of the Treg cells between control groups and the oral administration of PFD group. PFD has prevention effect on intraperitoneal adhesions. This prevention effect seems to be related with the reduction in the numbers of Th2 and Treg cells.
Effects of New Grocery Store Development on Inner-City Neighborhood Residential Prices
Authors: Cerrato Caceres Belkis , Geoghegan Jacqueline
Published: April 2017

A difference-in-differences approach is used to measure the impact of new inner-city grocery store developments on residential housing values in Worcester, Massachusetts. Using geocoded housing sales from 1988–2011, we develop a hedonic model, exploiting temporal and spatial discontinuities, to identify the effect of 12 new grocery stores on neighborhood housing prices. Results suggest these new stores were associated with an increase in sale prices of nearby homes, and these results could help inform current policies related to urban food deserts, in that new grocery stores have the potential to improve neighborhood wealth as well as health.