bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive identification and structural characterization of target components from Gelsemium elegans by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry based on accurate mass databases combined with MS/MS spectra
Authors: Liu Yan‐Chun , Xiao Sa , Yang Kun , Ling Li , Sun Zhi‐Liang , Liu Zhao‐Ying
Published: April 2017

This study reports an applicable analytical strategy of comprehensive identification and structure characterization of target components from Gelsemium elegans by using high‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (LC‐QqTOF MS) based on the use of accurate mass databases combined with MS/MS spectra. The databases created included accurate masses and elemental compositions of 204 components from Gelsemium and their structural data. The accurate MS and MS/MS spectra were acquired through data‐dependent auto MS/MS mode followed by an extraction of the potential compounds from the LC‐QqTOF MS raw data of the sample. The same was matched using the databases to search for targeted components in the sample. The structures for detected components were tentatively characterized by manually interpreting the accurate MS/MS spectra for the first time. A total of 57 components have been successfully detected and structurally characterized from the crude extracts of G. elegans, but has failed to differentiate some isomers. This analytical strategy is generic and efficient, avoids isolation and purification procedures, enables a comprehensive structure characterization of target components of Gelsemium and would be widely applicable for complicated mixtures that are derived from Gelsemium preparations. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forensic analysis of latent fingermarks by silver‐assisted LDI imaging MS on nonconductive surfaces
Authors: Lauzon N. , Dufresne M. , Beaudoin A. , Chaurand P.
Published: April 2017

Silver‐assisted laser desorption ionization (AgLDI) imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) has been demonstrated to be a useful technology for fingermark analysis allowing for the detection of several classes of endogenous as well as exogenous compounds. Ideally, in IMS analyses, the fingermarks are deposited under controlled conditions on metallized conductive target slides. However, in forensic investigations, fingermarks are often found on a variety of nonconductive surfaces. A sputtered silver layer renders the target surface conductive, which allows the analyses of insulating surfaces by time‐of‐flight IMS. Ultimately, the major consideration when developing analytical methods for the analysis of latent fingermarks is their capability to be incorporated within forensic standard operational procedures. To demonstrate the potential of AgLDI IMS for forensic applications, fingermarks deposited on nonconductive surfaces commonly found during an investigation, including paper, cardboard, plastic bags and lifting tape, were first revealed by the Sûreté du Québec by using forensic enhancement techniques prior to the IMS analyses. Numerous endogenous compounds including fatty acids, cholesterol, squalene, wax esters, triglycerides and several exogenous substances were detected and imaged. Here, we show that silver sputtering can provide visual enhancements of fingerprint patterns after FET procedures through different scenarios in which AgLDI IMS can contribute to forensic investigations. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for the hydrolysis complexes of cisplatin: implications for the hydrolysis process of platinum complexes
Authors: Feifan Xie , Pieter Colin , Jan Van Bocxlaer
Published: April 2017

Non‐enzyme‐dependent hydrolysis of the drug cisplatin is important for its mode of action and toxicity. However, up until today, the hydrolysis process of cisplatin is still not completely understood. In the present study, the hydrolysis of cisplatin in an aqueous solution was systematically investigated by using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry coupled to liquid chromatography. A variety of previously unreported hydrolysis complexes corresponding to monomeric, dimeric and trimeric species were detected and identified. The characteristics of the Pt‐containing complexes were investigated by using collision‐induced dissociation (CID). The hydrolysis complexes demonstrate distinctive and correlative CID characteristics, which provides tools for an informative identification. The most frequently observed dissociation mechanism was sequential loss of NH3, H2O and HCl. Loss of the Pt atom was observed as the final step during the CID process. The formation mechanisms of the observed complexes were explored and experimentally examined. The strongly bound dimeric species, which existed in solution, are assumed to be formed from the clustering of the parent compound and its monohydrated or dihydrated complexes. The role of the electrospray process in the formation of some of the observed ions was also evaluated, and the electrospray ionization‐related cold clusters were identified. The previously reported hydrolysis equilibria were tested and subsequently refined via a hydrolysis study resulting in a renewed mechanistic equilibrium system of cisplatin as proposed from our results. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impacts of climate change on mid‐twenty‐first‐century rainfall in Ireland: a high‐resolution regional climate model ensemble approach
Authors: Nolan Paul , O'Sullivan John , McGrath Ray
Published: April 2017

The impacts of climate change on precipitation over Ireland are assessed for the mid‐century period 2041–2060 using an ensemble of downscaled climate simulations, based on medium‐to‐low and high emission scenarios. Results show significant projected decreases in mean annual, spring and summer precipitation amounts by mid‐century. The projected decreases are largest for summer, with reductions ranging from 0 to 13% and from 3 to 20% for the medium‐to‐low and high emission scenarios, respectively. The frequencies of heavy precipitation events show notable increases of approximately 20% during the winter and autumn months. The number of extended dry periods is projected to increase substantially by mid‐century during autumn and summer. The projected increases in dry periods are largest for summer, with values ranging from 12 to 40% for both emission scenarios. Regional variations of projected precipitation change remain statistically elusive.
Screening endoscopy finds high prevalence of Helicobacter pylori and intestinal metaplasia in Korean American with limited access to health care
Authors: Woo Yanghee , Behrendt Carolyn E. , Trapp Garrick , Hyun Jae Geun , Gonda Tamas , Fong Yuman , Wang Timothy
Published: April 2017

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is the leading cause of cancer death among Korean Americans. Prevention and early detection is improved by screening.

Methods

Between September 2013 and March 2015, ethnic Koreans age 40 or older without history or symptoms of GC and without upper endoscopy (UE) during previous 3 years were enrolled. Participants were offered screening with GC risk assessment followed by UE with biopsies.

Results

Risk assessment was provided to 146 participants (age 55.6 ± 8.3 years; 52.1% female; 92.5% uninsured), of whom 99 (67.8%) returned for UE. Undergoing UE was independently associated with family history of GC (OR 12.33, 95% CI:1.52‐100.17), being a former smoker (6.68,1.42‐31.32), and Hp‐negative status (0.25,0.11‐0.57). Among UE recipients, half (49.5%) had intestinal metaplasia (IM) only (n = 24), Hp only (n = 12), or both (n = 13). No case of GC was found. Adjusted for age, IM was independently associated with male sex (2.89,1.12‐7.42), current Hp (2.90,0.99‐8.51), unmarried status (single or divorced) (4.23,1.23‐14.56).

Conclusions

High prevalence of risk factors associated with gastric carcinogenesis including Hp infection and IM exists in Korean Americans who underwent upper endoscopic screening. Acceptance of GC screening is informed by personal risk factors. These findings support the need to improve access to screening UE among KAs.
Effects of flexible anodes on the potential distribution of the exterior of adjacent tank bottoms
Authors: Liao K. X. , Liu Y. , Dong L. W. , Zhang H. X.
Published: April 2017

A mathematical model for the potential distribution of adjacent tank bottoms under cathodic protection was established as a function of factors that affected the potential distribution. Laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the boundary conditions at the cathode to be used in the mathematical model. A finite element model was solved by means of the commercial software COMSOL. Five parameters have been considered: the distance to the adjacent tank, tank diameter, resistivity of the medium, surface condition of the tank bottom, and anode characteristics. The results showed that the potential of the tank bottom protected by flexible anodes was only slightly affected by the adjacent distance. Furthermore, flexible anodes could effectively decrease the interaction between tanks. With the increase of the burial depth of the anodes, the potential distribution of the adjacent tank bottom reached a steady state. The maximum relative error of the model was 5% and the model was validated by means of field tests.
Dynamic nuclear polarization studies on deuterated nitroxyl spin probes
Authors: David Jebaraj D. , Utsumi Hideo , Milton Franklin Benial A.
Published: April 2017

Detailed dynamic nuclear polarization and electron spin resonance studies were carried out for 3‐carbamoyl‐2,2,5,5‐tetramethyl‐pyrrolidine‐1‐oxyl, 3‐carboxy‐2,2,5,5‐tetramethyl‐pyrrolidine‐1‐oxyl,3‐methoxycarbonyl‐2,2,5,5‐tetramethy pyrolidine‐1‐oxyl nitroxyl radicals and their corresponding deuterated nitroxyl radicals, used in Overhauser‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for the first time. The dynamic nuclear polarization parameters such as dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) factor, longitudinal relaxivity, saturation parameter, leakage factor and coupling factor were estimated for deuterated nitroxyl radicals. DNP enhancement increases with agent concentration up to 3 mm and decreases above 3 mm. The proton spin–lattice relaxation time and the longitudinal relaxivity parameters were estimated. The leakage factor increases with increasing agent concentration up to 3 mm and reaches plateau in the region 3–5 mm. The coupling parameter shows the interaction between the electron and nuclear spins to be mainly dipolar in origin. DNP spectrum exhibits that the full width at half maximum values are higher for undeuterated nitroxyl radicals compared with deuterated nitroxyl radicals, which leads to the increase in DNP enhancement. The ESR parameters such as, the line width, line shape, signal intensity ratio, rotational correlation time, hyperfine coupling constant and g‐factor were calculated. The narrow line width was observed for deuterated nitroxyl radicals compared with undeuterated nitroxyl radicals, which leads to the higher saturation parameter value and DNP enhancement. The novelty of the work permits clear understanding of the DNP parameters determining the higher DNP enhancement compared with the undeuterated nitroxyl radicals. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can we define and characterize the aging lower urinary tract?—ICI‐RS 2015
Authors: Vahabi Bahareh , Wagg Adrian S. , Rosier Peter F.W.M. , Rademakers Kevin L.J. , Denys Marie‐Astrid , Pontari Michel , Lovick Thelma , Valentini Francoise A. , Nelson Pierre P. , Andersson Karl‐Erik , Fry Christopher H.
Published: April 2017

The prevalence of lower urinary tract (LUT) symptoms increases with age but the etiology is unknown. This article aims to identify research directions that clarify the basis of this association. The initial question is whether biological age is the variable of interest or a time‐dependent accumulation of factors that impact on LUT function at rates that differ between individuals. In particular, the accumulation of conditions or agents due to inflammatory states or tissue ischemia is important. Much of the above has been concerned with changes to bladder function and morphology. However, the outflow tract function is also affected, in particular changes to the function of external sphincter skeletal muscle and associated sacral motor nerve control. Nocturia is a cardinal symptom of LUT dysfunction and is more prevalent with aging. Urine production is determined by diurnal changes to the production of certain hormones as well as arterial blood pressure and such diurnal rhythms are blunted in subjects with nocturia, but the causal links remain to be elucidated. Changes to the central nervous control of LUT function with age are also increasingly recognized, whether in mid‐brain/brainstem regions that directly affect LUT function or in higher centers that determine psycho‐social and emotional factors impinging on the LUT. In particular, the linkage between increasing white matter hyperintensities and LUT dysfunction during aging is recognized but not understood. Overall, a more rational approach is being developed to link LUT dysfunction with factors that accumulate with age, however, the precise causal pathways remain to be characterized. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:854–858, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How does lower urinary tract dysfunction affect sexual function in men and women? ICI‐RS 2015—Part 1
Authors: Rantell Angie , Apostolidis Apostolos , Anding Ralf , Kirschner‐Hermanns Ruth , Cardozo Linda
Published: April 2017

Aim

The aim of this paper is to review the literature on the effect of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) on sexual function and dysfunction.

Methods

At the International Consultation on Incontinence‐Research Society (ICI‐RS) in 2015, a multidisciplinary group presented a literature search of what is known about the effect of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) on sexual function (SF) in men and women. Wider discussions regarding knowledge gaps and ideal research methodology ensued.

Results

A body of evidence supports associations between LUTS/urinary incontinence on SF in both men and women, but the true prevalence of the impact of LUTD on SF remains largely unknown. There is still reluctance among health care professionals (HCP's) to discuss SF with patients and often patients who are not asked will not volunteer their problems.

Conclusion

A significant knowledge gap in this area remains. Education among HCP's on assessment and treatment of sexual dysfunction and communication skills are essential to encourage, and engage patients with HCP's. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:949–952, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Can a patient reported outcome be adequate without assessing quality of life in lower urinary tract dysfunction?
Authors: Cotterill Nikki , Tubaro Andrea
Published: April 2017

AIMS AND METHODS

A think tank was convened at the sixth ICI‐RS meeting held in the United Kingdom on September 2015, to consider the adequacy of patient reported outcome (PRO) measurement if quality of life (QoL) evaluation were excluded. Rigorous methodology is proposed for the development of PROs and much is written about this process but the necessity for QoL inclusion is rarely discussed. The decision was therefore taken to consider what QoL evaluation provides and what these data provide.

RESULTS

Discussions highlighted the need to question our aim for including QoL evaluation in clinical practice and research, in order to ensure its necessity for the intended purpose. Improved understanding of the usefulness of QoL data, in particular in relation to important health indicators was also identified as an area of unmet need.

CONCLUSIONS

The think tank ended with a collaborative research proposal to pool existing QoL databases to explore the correlations with other outcome measures and types of associations present. It was suggested that these findings would enable clinicians and researchers to make more informed decisions regarding PRO selection, use, and intepretation.
Learning ensemble strategy for static and dynamic localization in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Ahmadi Hanen , Viani Federico , Polo Alessandro , Bouallegue Ridha
Published: April 2017

Indoor localization in wireless sensor networks is a challenging task. Static localization and moving target monitoring are addressed using ensemble learning method and received signal strength indicator. The suggested strategy combines several regression trees to have better performance. This solution has been experimentally evaluated using real measurements in an office room. The performance results have been analyzed through a comparison with learning‐based localization algorithms currently available in the literature. The analysis shows that the adopted solution is simple in term of computation, accurate and robust to environmental variation.
Fast and Simple Discriminative Analysis of Anthocyanins‐Containing Berries Using LC/MS Spectral Data
Authors: Yang Heejung , Kim Hyun Woo , Kwon Yong Soo , Kim Ho Kyong , Sung Sang Hyun
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Anthocyanins are potent antioxidant agents that protect against many degenerative diseases; however, they are unstable because they are vulnerable to external stimuli including temperature, pH and light. This vulnerability hinders the quality control of anthocyanin‐containing berries using classical high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analytical methodologies based on UV or MS chromatograms.

Objective

To develop an alternative approach for the quality assessment and discrimination of anthocyanin‐containing berries, we used MS spectral data acquired in a short analytical time rather than UV or MS chromatograms.

Method

Mixtures of anthocyanins were separated from other components in a short gradient time (5 min) due to their higher polarity, and the representative MS spectrum was acquired from the MS chromatogram corresponding to the mixture of anthocyanins.

Results

The chemometric data from the representative MS spectra contained reliable information for the identification and relative quantification of anthocyanins in berries with good precision and accuracy.

Conclusion

This fast and simple methodology, which consists of a simple sample preparation method and short gradient analysis, could be applied to reliably discriminate the species and geographical origins of different anthocyanin‐containing berries. These features make the technique useful for the food industry. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Symmetrical polymer systems prepared using a degradable bifunctional atom transfer radical polymerization initiator: Synthesis, characterization, and cleavage
Authors: Elladiou Marios , Kalogirou Andreas S. , Patrickios Costas S.
Published: April 2017

Linear (co)polymers and dimethacrylate‐end‐linked polymer networks of methyl methacrylate with 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate, cleavable in the middle of the polymer chain, either under thermolysis or alkaline hydrolysis conditions, were prepared via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) using a specially designed bifunctional degradable initiator. This initiator was 2,6‐pyridinediethanol di(2‐bromo‐2‐methyl propanoate) (PyDEDBrMeP), bearing two 2‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)ethyl ester moieties, known for their thermal and hydrolytic (alkaline conditions) lability. As a control, a more stable bifunctional ATRP initiator, 2,6‐pyridinedimethanol di(2‐bromo‐2‐methyl propanoate) (PyDMDBrMeP), was also synthesized together with the corresponding linear polymers and polymer networks prepared from it. Thermal or hydrolytic treatment of the polymers prepared using PyDEDBrMeP led to a reduction in the molecular weights of the linear polymers by a factor of two, and to the conversion of the polymer networks to soluble branched (star) structures, consistent with the expected cleavage of the initiator residue located in the middle of the polymer chain. Thermal treatment of the polymers prepared using PyDMDBrMeP did not affect their molecular weight due to the thermal stability of the (pyridin‐2‐yl)methyl ester group, while treatment under alkaline hydrolysis conditions resulted in complete cleavage, similar to the PyDEDBrMeP‐prepared polymers. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 2342–2355
CFTR‐dependent chloride efflux in cystic fibrosis mononuclear cells is increased by ivacaftor therapy
Authors: Guerra Lorenzo , D'Oria Susanna , Favia Maria , Castellani Stefano , Santostasi Teresa , Polizzi Angela M. , Mariggiò Maria A. , Gallo Crescenzio , Casavola Valeria , Montemurro Pasqualina , Leonetti Giuseppina , Manca Antonio , Conese Massimo
Published: April 2017

Aim

The Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) potentiator ivacaftor (Kalydeco®) improves clinical outcome in G551D cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Here, we have investigated whether ivacaftor has a clinical impact on non‐G551D gating mutations and function of circulating leukocytes as well.

Methods

Seven patients were treated with ivacaftor and evaluated at baseline, and at 1‐3 and 6 months. Besides clinical and systemic inflammatory parameters, circulating mononuclear cells (MNC) were evaluated for CFTR‐dependent chloride efflux by spectrofluorimetry, neutrophils for oxidative burst by cytofluorimetry and HVCN1 mRNA expression by real time PCR.

Results

Ivacaftor determined a significant decrease in sweat chloride concentrations at all time points during treatment. Body mass index (BMI), FEV1, and FVC showed an increasing trend. While C‐reactive protein decreased significantly at 2 months, the opposite behavior was noticed for circulating monocytes. CFTR activity in MNC was found to increase significantly at 3 and 6 months. Neutrophil oxidative burst peaked at 2 months and then decreased to baseline. HVCN1 mRNA expression was significantly higher than baseline at 1‐3 months and decreased after 6 months of treatment. The chloride efflux in MNC correlated positively with both FEV1 and FVC. On the other hand, sweat chloride correlated positively with CRP and WBC, and negatively with both respiratory function tests. A cluster analysis confirmed that sweat chloride, FEV1, FVC, BMI, and MNC chloride efflux behaved as a single entity over time.

Discussion

In patients with non‐G551D mutations, ivacaftor improved both chloride transport in sweat ducts and chloride efflux in MNC, that is, functions directly imputed to CFTR.
Intraguild interactions and behavior of Spodoptera frugiperda and Helicoverpa spp. on maize
Authors: Bentivenha José PF , Montezano Débora G , Hunt Thomas E , Baldin Edson LL , Peterson Julie A , Victor Vinícius S , Pannuti Luiz ER , Vélez Ana M , Paula‐Moraes Silvana V
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is one of the major pests of maize and is in the same feeding guild as the noctuid pests Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) and Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), recently reported in South and North America. The intraguild interactions of these species were assessed in laboratory and field conditions by determining the survival of larvae in interaction scenarios with non‐Bt maize silks and ears. Moreover, a video tracking system was utilized to evaluate behavioral parameters during larval interactions in scenarios with or without food.

RESULTS

In intraguild interactions, S. frugiperda had greater survival (55–100%) when competing with Helicoverpa spp. in scenarios where larvae were the same instar or when they were larger (fourth versus second) than their competitor. Frequency and time in food of S. frugiperda larvae were negatively influenced by interactions. Larvae of S. frugiperda moved shorter distances (less than 183.03 cm) compared with H. zea.

CONCLUSION

Overall, S. frugiperda had a competitive advantage over Helicoverpa spp. This study provides significant information regarding noctuid behavior and larval survival during intraguild interactions, which may impact pest prevalence and population dynamics, thereby affecting integrated pest management and insect resistance management of these species in maize. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Roles of SAMHD1 in antiviral defense, autoimmunity and cancer
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Zhang Dong , Zhu Mengying , Shen Yuxian , Wei Wei , Ying Songcheng , Korner Heinrich , Li Jun
Published: April 2017

The enzyme, sterile α motif and histidine‐aspartic acid domain–containing protein 1 (SAMHD1) diminishes infection of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) by hydrolyzing intracellular deoxynucleotide triphosphates (dNTPs) in myeloid cells and resting CD4+ T cells. This dNTP degradation reduces the dNTP concentration to a level insufficient for viral cDNA synthesis, thereby inhibiting retroviral replication. This antiviral enzymatic activity can be inhibited by viral protein X (Vpx). The HIV‐2/SIV Vpx causes degradation of SAMHD1, thus interfering with the SAMHD1‐mediated restriction of retroviral replication. Recently, SAMHD1 has been suggested to restrict HIV‐1 infection by directly digesting genomic HIV‐1 RNA through a still controversial RNase activity. Here, we summarize the current knowledge about structure, antiviral mechanisms, intracellular localization, interferon‐regulated expression of SAMHD1. We also describe SAMHD1‐deficient animal models and an antiviral drug on the basis of disrupting proteasomal degradation of SAMHD1. In addition, the possible roles of SAMHD1 in regulating innate immune sensing, Aicardi‐Goutières syndrome and cancer are discussed in this review.
Cluster analysis of local convergent sequences of structures
Authors: Nešetřil Jaroslav , de Mendez Patrice Ossona
Published: April 2017

The cluster analysis of very large objects is an important problem, which spans several theoretical as well as applied branches of mathematics and computer science. Here we suggest a novel approach: under assumption of local convergence of a sequence of finite structures we derive an asymptotic clustering. This is achieved by a blend of analytic and geometric techniques, and particularly by a new interpretation of the authors' representation theorem for limits of local convergent sequences, which serves as a guidance for the whole process. Our study may be seen as an effort to describe connectivity structure at the limit (without having a defined explicit limit structure) and to pull this connectivity structure back to the finite structures in the sequence in a continuous way. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 51, 674–728, 2017
Casticin impairs cell migration and invasion of mouse melanoma B16F10 cells via PI3K/AKT and NF‐κB signaling pathways
Authors: Shih Yung‐Luen , Chou Hsiao‐Min , Chou Hsiu‐Chen , Lu Hsu‐Feng , Chu Yung‐Lin , Shang Hung‐Sheng , Chung Jing‐Gung
Published: April 2017

Casticin, a polymethoxyflavone, is one of the major active components obtained from Fructus viticis, which have been shown to have anticancer activities including induce cell apoptosis in human cancer cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which casticin inhibits cell migration and invasion of mouse melanoma B16F10 cells. Cell viability was examined by MTT assay and the results indicated that casticin decreased the total percentages of viable cells in dose‐dependent manners. Casticin affected cell migration and invasion in B16F10 cells were examined by wound healing mobility assay and Boyden chamber migration and invasion assay and results indicated that casticin inhibited cell migration and invasion in dose‐dependent manners. Western blotting was used to examine the protein expression of B16F10 cells after exposed to casticin and the results showed that casticin decreased the expressions of MMP‐9, MMP‐2, MMP‐1, FAK, 14‐3‐3, GRB2, Akt, NF‐κB p65, SOS‐1, p‐EGFR, p‐JNK 1/2, uPA, and Rho A in B16F10 cells. Furthermore, cDNA microarray assay was used to show that casticin affected associated gene expression of cell migration and invasion and the results indicated that casticin affected some of the gene expression such as increased SCN1B (cell adhesion molecule 1) and TIMP2 (TIMP metallopeptidase inhibitor 2) and decreased NDUFS4 (NADH dehydrogenase (ubiquinone) Fe‐S protein4), VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A), and DDIT3 (DNA‐damage‐inducible transcript 3) which associated cell migration and invasion in B16F10 cells. Based on those observations, we suggest that casticin could be used as a novel anticancer metastasis of melanoma cancer in the future.
Hydroquinone induces TK6 cell growth arrest and apoptosis through PARP‐1/p53 regulatory pathway
Authors: Luo Hao , Liang Hairong , Chen Jiajia , Xu Yongchun , Chen Yuting , Xu Longmei , Yun Lin , Liu Jiaxian , Yang Hui , Liu Linhua , Peng Jianming , Liu Zhidong , Tang Lin , Chen Wen , Tang Huanwen
Published: April 2017

Hydroquinone (HQ), one of the most important metabolites derived from benzene, induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase‐1 (PARP‐1) participates in various biological processes, including DNA repair and cell cycle regulation. To explore whether PARP‐1 regulatory pathway mediated HQ‐induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, we assessed the effect of PARP‐1 suppression on induction of apoptosis analyzed by FACSCalibur flow cytometer in PARP‐1 deficientTK6 cells (TK6‐shPARP‐1). We observed an increase in the fraction of cells in G1 phase by 7.6% and increased apoptosis by 4.5% in PARP‐1‐deficient TK6 cells (TK6‐shPARP‐1) compared to those negative control cells (TK6‐shNC cells) in response to HQ treatment. Furthermore, HQ might activate the extrinsic pathways of apoptosis via up‐regulation of Fas expression, followed by caspase‐3 activation, apoptotic body, and sub G1 accumulation. Enhanced p53 expression was observed in TK6‐shPARP‐1 cells than in TK6‐shNC cells after HQ treatment. In contrast, Fas expression was lower in TK6‐shPARP‐1 cells than in TK6‐shNC cells. Therefore, we conclude that HQ may activate apoptotic signals via Fas up‐regulation and p53‐mediated apoptosis in TK6‐shNC cells. The reduction of PARP‐1 expression further intensified up‐regulation of p53 in TK6‐shPARP‐1 cells, resulting in an increased G1→S phase cell arrest and apoptosis in TK6‐shPARP‐1 cells compared to TK6‐shNC cells.
Synergistic effect of carbon nuclei and polyaromatic hydrocarbons on respiratory and immune responses
Authors: Chowdhury Pratiti H. , Kitamura Gaku , Honda Akiko , Sawahara Takahiro , Hayashi Tomohiro , Fukushima Wataru , Kudo Hitomi , Ito Sho , Yoshida Seiichi , Ichinose Takamichi , Ueda Kayo , Takano Hirohisa
Published: April 2017

Particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) is generally composed of carbon nuclei associated with various organic carbons, metals, ions and biological materials. Among these components, polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) and quinones have detrimental effects on airway epithelial cells and immunodisrupting effects, which leads to the exacerbation of respiratory allergies. The effects of PAHs and the carbon nuclei, separately as well as in combination, remain to be established. We investigated the effects of BaP, 9,10‐phenanthroquinone (9,10‐PQ), and 1,2‐napthoquinone (1,2‐NQ) and their combined effects with heated diesel exhaust particle (H‐DEP) as carbon nuclei of typical PM2.5. We exposed human airway epithelial cells (BEAS‐2B), murine bone marrow‐derived antigen‐presenting cells (APCs), and murine splenocytes to BaP, 9,10‐PQ, or 1,2‐NQ in the presence and absence of H‐DEP. Several important inflammatory cytokines and cell surface molecules were measured. PAHs alone did not have apparent cytotoxic effects on BEAS‐2B, whereas combined exposure with H‐DEP induced noticeable detrimental effects which mainly reflected the action of H‐DEP itself. BaP increased CD86 expression as an APC surface molecule regardless of the presence or absence of H‐DEP. None of the BaP, 9,10‐PQ, or 1,2‐NQ exposure alone or their combined exposure with H‐DEP resulted in any significant activation of splenocytes. These results suggest that PAHs and carbon nuclei show additive effects, and that BaP with the carbon nuclei may contribute to exacerbations of allergic respiratory diseases including asthma by PM2.5, especially via antigen‐presenting cell activation.
Esophagojejunostomy Using the Purse‐String Suturing Device After Laparoscopic Total or Proximal Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Okuno Keisuke , Gokita Kentaro , Tanioka Toshiro , Ogawa Norihito , Otsuki Sho , Inokuchi Mikito , Takayama Toshio , Kojima Kazuyuki
Published: April 2017

Background

Performing a safe esophagojejunostomy is important for the standardization of laparoscopic total gastrectomy. We have performed intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy by a circular stapler using the purse‐string suturing device that we co‐developed. The advantage of this device is that it makes use of the same surgical procedure as open surgery, but it does not depend on the surgeon’s technical skills since this device does not require the laparoscopic hand‐sewn technique. Furthermore, we have also adapted this device for double‐tract reconstruction after laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy. In this study, we present the surgical procedures and postoperative short‐term outcomes that were obtained using this novel technique.

Methods

We enrolled 94 patients that underwent intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy by circular stapler using our device after laparoscopic total or proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer between November 2009 and October 2016.

Results

Postoperative complications related to esophagojejunostomy were due to anastomotic stenosis in two cases (2.1%) and leakage of the jejunum stump in one case (1.1%).

Conclusions

Intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy by circular stapler using the purse‐string suturing device is safe and feasible. This method can be one of the standard procedures for performing intracorporeal esophagojejunostomy.
Native Mediterranean plants as potential food sources for natural enemies of insect pests in olive groves
Authors: Nave Anabela , Crespí António L. , Gonçalves Fátima , Campos Mercedes , Torres Laura
Published: April 2017

The diversity of native non‐crop (weed) vegetation in agricultural landscapes can provide arthropod natural enemies with food sources and shelter, thus improving natural pest control and reducing dependence on chemical pesticides. Moreover, native plants to a region are uniquely positioned to provide cultural ecosystem services such as wild food and wild medicinal plants, as well as aesthetics values. The Mediterranean Basin is one of the world's richest places in terms of plant diversity. Olive cultivation is the basic tree cultivation in the Mediterranean and dominates its rural landscape. The olive grove ecosystem, whose flora presents a notable resemblance to the flora of Mediterranean type ecosystems, is home to a myriad of species of insects, spiders and other arthropods. This includes over one hundred phytophagous species, plus an uncounted number of entomophagous that help to reduce phytophagous populations. Here we present data on flowering plant species from the ground cover of olive groves, store information on characteristics of plant species namely physiognomic type and flowering period, geographic information and some statistical values on olive groves study area and records in the flora of visitor arthropods and cultural ecosystem services. The data include information on 36 olive groves, 100 flora species (taxa), of which 86 native in Portugal, 5 endemic to Iberian Peninsula and 4 endemic to Portugal Continental, and present also a summary of the records of visitor arthropods in these flora (i.e. 2 classes, 6 orders and 12 families).
Back to Basics: Sterile Technique
Authors: Spruce Lisa
Published: April 2017

Sterile technique is an essential patient safety principle that reduces the risk of microbial transmission to patients during surgery. The ability to establish and maintain a sterile environment is an important skill for all perioperative team members. Understanding the principles of sterile technique is crucial for anyone entering the perioperative environment. This Back to Basics article reviews sterile technique and the importance of all perioperative team members adhering to aseptic principles.
Inadvertent Perioperative Hypothermia: Current Nursing Knowledge
Authors: Giuliano Karen K. , Hendricks Jane
Published: April 2017

Inadvertent perioperative hypothermia is estimated to affect 70% of surgical patients and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes, lengthened hospital stays, and increased costs. To better understand the current level of nursing knowledge on this subject since the release of the “Guideline for prevention of unplanned patient hypothermia,” we conducted an e‐mail survey of AORN members. The overall response rate was 6.5% (N = 324), and most responding nurses overestimated or underestimated the lower and upper limits for normothermia. When asked about the most common complications associated with hypothermia, respondents identified shivering (68.2%), surgical site infections (65.4%), and cardiac events (61.7%); only 44.8% and 33.6% identified blood loss and pressure injuries, respectively. These results indicate a need for ongoing interventions to increase awareness and promote best practices to prevent and manage inadvertent perioperative hypothermia.
Sex cord tumor with annular tubules in patients with Turner syndrome: Mosaicism 45X/46XY
Authors: Sánchez María , Garzón Angie , Pérez Jaime , Hittelman Adam , Céspedes Camila , Forero Catalina , Fernández Nicolás
Published: April 2017

Introduction It has been described among the literature the close relationship that exists between dysgenetic gonads with positive Y chromosome and the risk of developing gonadoblastoma. However, it is still uncertain the relationship with stromal tumors and there is not much information about this topic. In this paper is presented the case of a patient with Turner syndrome mosaicism 45X(8)/46,XY(92) and sex cord tumor with annular tubule pattern.

Materials and methods A search was conducted in Embase, Ovid, Ebsco and PubMed databases with the terms “(Turner syndrome) and sex cord stromal tumor”. However, only in PubMed we were able to find an article that meets the search criteria and it is considered the first case report in the literature that refers to the relationship between Turner syndrome and sex cord stromal tumor.

Conclusions There is little evidence that exists for cases like this, so the management of these patients is still uncertain and controversial, especially by the different perspectives in-between specialties. Specifically, with this patient it is still uncertain the relationship between the risk and the benefit of the management with growth hormone after the finding of neoplasm.
Upper Body Compression Garment: Physiological Effects While Cycling in a Hot Environment
Authors: Leoz-Abaurrea Iker , Aguado-Jiménez Roberto
Published: April 2017

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of an upper body compression garment (UBCG) on physiologic and perceptual responses while cycling in a hot environment.

Methods

Twenty recreational road cyclists were pair-matched for age, anthropometric data, and fitness level (V̇O2 max) and randomly assigned to a control (CON) group (n=10) of cyclists who wore a conventional t-shirt or to a group (n=10) of cyclists who wore UBCG. Test session consisted of cycling at a fixed load (∼50% V̇O2 max) for 30 minutes at an ambient temperature of ∼40°C (39.9±0.4°C), followed by 10 minutes of recovery.

Results

Significantly greater ( P = .002) rectal temperature ( Trec) was observed at the end of exercise in the UBCG group (38.3±0.2°C) versus CON group (37.9±0.3°C). Significantly greater heart rate (HR) was observed in the UBCG group at minute 15 ( P = .01) and at the end of exercise (187±9 vs 173±10 beats/min; P = .004) for UBCG and CON, respectively. Furthermore, participants who wore UBCG perceived a significantly greater ( P = .03) thermal sensation at the end of exercise. During recovery HR and Trec remained significantly greater ( P < .05) in the UBCG group.

Conclusions

The use of an UBCG increased cardiovascular and thermoregulatory strain during cycling in a hot environment and did not aid during recovery.
An investigation into the effects of maternal supplementation with excess iodine on the mechanisms and impacts of reduced IgG absorption in the lamb postpartum
Authors: McGovern F. M. , Sweeney T. , Ryan M. T. , Lott S. , Campion F. P. , Boland T. M.
Published: April 2017

An experiment was conducted to determine: (1) the effect of excess maternal I supplementation on the thyroid hormone status of the ewe and her progeny; (2) potential mechanisms underpinning the failure of passive transfer associated with excess I and (3) the growing lambs’ response to natural gastrointestinal infection. Twin-bearing ewes received one of two treatments (n 32/treatment group): basal diet (C) or C plus 26·6 mg of iodine/ewe per d (I), supplied as calcium iodate. Ewes were individually fed from day 119 of gestation to parturition. Progeny of I ewes had lower (P<0·01) serum IgG concentrations from 24 h to 28 d postpartum but higher serum IgG concentrations at day 70 postpartum (P<0·05). I supplementation increased the relative expression of Fc receptor, IgA, IgM high affinity and polymeric Ig receptor in the ileum of the lamb at 24 h postpartum; however, thyroid hormone receptor-β (THRB) and β-2-microglobulin (B2M) expression declined (P<0·05). Progeny of I ewes had higher growth rates to weaning (P<0·05) and lower faecal egg count (FEC) for Nematodirus battus (P<0·05) between weeks 6 and 10 postpartum. In conclusion, excess maternal I supplementation negatively affected the thyroid hormone status, serum IgG concentration, ileal morphology and the gene expression of THRB and B2M in the ileum and ras-related protein (RAB) RAB25 and the mucin gene (MUC) MUC1 in the duodenum of the lamb postpartum. These effects were followed by an enhancement of average daily gain and lower N. battus FEC in the pre-weaning period of I-supplemented lambs.
THE TEXT OF HORACE,SATIRES1.4.4: GREEK OLD COMEDY AND LUCILIUS
Authors: Fedeli Giacomo
Published: April 2017

In the famous and widely cited opening of hisSatires(henceforth,Sat.) 1.4, Horace states (1–5):

Eupolis atque Cratinus Aristophanesque poetae

atque alii quorum comoedia prisca uirorum est,

si quis erat dignus describi, quod malus ac fur,

quod moechus foret aut sicarius aut alioqui

famosus, multa cum libertate notabant.       5
Diversity or disarray? A systematic review of decision-making capacity for treatment and research in schizophrenia and other non-affective psychoses
Authors: Spencer B. W. J. , Shields G. , Gergel T. , Hotopf M. , Owen G. S.
Published: April 2017

Background

Valid consent for treatment or research participation requires that an individual has decision-making capacity (DMC), which is the ability to make a specific decision. There is evidence that the psychopathology of schizophrenia can compromise DMC. The objective of this review was to examine the presence or absence of DMC in schizophrenia and the socio-demographic/psychopathological factors associated.

Methods

We searched three databases Embase, Ovid MEDLINE(R), and PsycINFO for studies reporting data on the proportion of DMC for treatment and research (DMC-T and DMC-R), and/or socio-demographic/psychopathological associations with ability to make such decisions, in people with schizophrenia and related illnesses.

Results

A total of 40 studies were identified. While high levels of heterogeneity limited direct comparison, meta-analysis of inpatient data showed that DMC-T was present in 48% of people. Insight was strongly associated with DMC-T. Neurocognitive deficits were strongly associated with lack of DMC-R and to a lesser extent DMC-T. With the exception of years of education, there was no evidence for an association with socio-demographic factors.

Conclusions

Insight and neurocognitive deficits are most closely associated with DMC in schizophrenia. The lack of an association with socio-demographic factors dispels common misperceptions regarding DMC and characteristics such as age. Although our results reveal a wide spectrum of DMC-T and DMC-R in schizophrenia, this could be partly due to the complexity of the DMC construct and the heterogeneity of existing studies. To facilitate systematic review research, there is a need for improvement within research study design and increased consistency of concepts and tools.
Identifying the most Influential Groups in Determining Singapore's Fertility
Authors: CHEN MENGNI , YIP PAUL S. F. , YAP MUI TENG
Published: April 2017

In recent years, various pro-natalist policies have been adopted in Singapore and other high-income Asian countries with low fertility, aiming at raising fertility rates. Previous studies were mainly focused on the impact or outcome of the policies. This paper, however, aims to identify the most influential groups in determining Singapore's total fertility rate (TFR) and evaluate the targeting of pro-natalist measures adopted by the government. We first reveal the changing age-parity-and-marital-status composition of women at childbearing age, and further conduct an elasticity analysis to assess the roles of different subgroups of women in changing the TFR. Our results show that compared to other groups, the 20–29-year-old single women and the married childless women aged 30–34 (‘married’ throughout this paper includes women who are or have been married) are more influential in determining the TFR and should be the potential pro-natalist target groups. However, Singapore's pro-natalist policies are more in favour of third and higher-order births. Such mismatch indicates that, if more efforts are devoted to facilitating marriage and first births in these potential groups, the TFR may be increased effectively. In order to achieve a long-term and significant fertility reversal, it calls for a long-term and integrated policy package.
Distributed self-deployment of mobile wireless 3D robotic sensor networks for complete sensing coverage and forming specific shapes
Authors: Nazarzehi Vali , Savkin Andrey V.
Published: April 2017

This paper addresses a problem of complete sensing coverage in 3D environments. We propose a distributed random algorithm to drive mobile robotic sensors on the vertices of a truncated octahedral grid for complete sensing coverage of a bounded 3D area. Furthermore, we develop a distributed algorithm for the self-deployment of mobile sensors to form a desired 3D geometric shape on the vertices of the truncated octahedral grid. These algorithms are developed based on some consensus rules that only rely on local information. The proposed algorithms utilize 3D grids for the coverage task. Several simulations are conducted to illustrate the validity of the proposed distributed sensing coverage and formation building algorithms for a mobile robotic sensor network. Also, we give mathematically rigorous proof of the convergence with probability 1 of our proposed algorithms.
DOES A DISCOUNT RATE MEASURE THE COSTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE?
Authors: Tarsney Christian
Published: April 2017

I argue that the use of a social discount rate to assess the consequences of climate policy is unhelpful and misleading. I consider two lines of justification for discounting: (i) ethical arguments for a ‘pure rate of time preference’ and (ii) economic arguments that take time as a proxy for economic growth and the diminishing marginal utility of consumption. In both cases I conclude that, given the long time horizons, distinctive uncertainties, and particular costs and benefits at stake in the climate context, discount rates are at best a poor proxy for the normative considerations they are meant to represent.