bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classical Test Models
Authors: Muñiz José
Published: May 2016

The term
classical test theory
covers an entire set of psychometric models and procedures whose main objective is to solve the psychometric problems arising in the measurement of variables in the social, behavioral, and health sciences. Classical test theory permits us to estimate the psychometric properties of the tests, questionnaires, and scales, guaranteeing that measurements are made with the appropriate scientific and technical rigor. The first work in this area appeared at the beginning of the twentieth century, and by the 1960s, the core of the classical approach was well established. The classical model assumes that a person's empirical score in a test is made up of two additive components, the true score corresponding to the assessed person in that test, and a certain measurement error. From this simple model, and with the addition of some assumptions and the definition of parallel tests, we obtain the principal classical formulas that allow the estimation of the psychometric properties of tests, such as reliability and validity.
Setting Performance Standards – Issues, Methods
Authors: Plake Barbara S.
Published: May 2016

Setting performance standards has been a controversial topic over the years. In this article, several examinee‐based and test‐based methods for setting performance standards on educational tests are introduced.
Zero‐Inflated Data
Authors: Tu Wanzhu , Liu Hai
Published: May 2016

The term
zero inflation
is used to describe a data set that contains an excessive number of zeros, typically beyond the accommodation of a standard parametric distribution. In analysis, the presence of a large number of zeros tends to violate the underlying distributional assumption and thus jeopardizing the validity of scientific inference. In this article, we briefly review the concept of zero inflation and survey the existing analytical methods for zero‐inflated data.
Generalized Estimating Equations
Authors: Fitzmaurice Garrett M.
Published: May 2016

Generalized linear models cannot be routinely applied to clustered data (e.g., repeated measures on an individual) owing to the correlation among responses within a cluster. This has prompted the development of extensions of these models to the clustered data setting. Generalized estimating equations (GEEs) are most widely used for estimation and inferences about regression parameters in a semiparametric extension of generalized linear models to cluster‐correlated data known as
marginal models
. In a marginal model, the main focus is on a regression model relating the mean response to a set of covariates; the within‐cluster covariance among the responses is regarded as a nuisance feature of the data. Without requiring assumptions about the joint distribution of the responses within a cluster, the GEE approach yields consistent estimators of the regression parameters even when the within‐cluster covariance has not been correctly specified. This property of the GEE method accounts for its widespread use in the analysis of longitudinal or cluster‐correlated data, especially when the response variable of interest is discrete.
Fractional
B
rownian Motion in Financial Modeling
Authors: Bender Christian , Viitasaari Lauri
Published: May 2016

We review the use of fractional Brownian motion in financial modeling with an emphasis on arbitrage and hedging in the (mixed) fractional Black–Scholes model for stock prices. Moreover, short‐rate models and volatility models based on fractional Ornstein–Uhlenbeck processes are briefly discussed.
Oracle Property
Authors: Li Runze , Wang Zhaojun
Published: May 2016

Since the 1970s, variable selection has received more and more attention. Various variable selection methods have been developed, and their properties have been well studied. This article aims to introduce the oracle property, an appealing property of variable selection procedures.
Joint Modeling in Health Sciences
Authors: Rizopoulos Dimitris
Published: May 2016

In longitudinal studies, measurements are often collected on different types of outcomes for each subject. These may include several longitudinally measured responses (such as blood values relevant to the medical condition under study) and the time at which an event of particular interest occurs (e.g., death, development of a disease, or dropout from the study). These outcomes are often separately analyzed; however, in many instances, a joint modeling approach is either required or may produce a better insight into the mechanisms that underlie the phenomenon under study. In this article, we present a short overview of this framework and utilize a joint model in the context of aortic valve transplantation.
Application of
K
alman Filter to Time Series Properties
Authors: Bhar Ramaprasad
Published: May 2016

This article elucidates the application of a structural time series approach to test a particular property of financial time series. This relates to the notion of coming together or convergence to two time series over the sample period being analyzed. The methodology allows observing the time evolution of such convergence property. The long‐term steady‐state behavior is empirically important to several research applications such as risk premium in credit and equity market between different countries. This may help support coordinated regulatory policy initiatives between different jurisdictions particularly when a crisis period is experienced.
Bayesian Model Averaging
Authors: Steel Mark F. J.
Published: May 2016

Bayesian Model averaging is a natural response to model uncertainty. It has become an important practical tool for dealing with model uncertainty; in particular, in empirical settings with large numbers of potential models and relatively limited numbers of observations. Most of this article focuses on the problem of variable selection in normal linear regression models and it also briefly considers a more general setting. This article surveys a number of prior structures proposed in the literature and presents in some detail the most commonly used prior setup. Model selection consistency and practical implementation are also briefly discussed.
All‐Solution‐Processed Random Si Nanopyramids for Excellent Light Trapping in Ultrathin Solar Cells
Authors: Zhong Sihua , Wang Wenjie , Zhuang Yufeng , Huang Zengguang , Shen Wenzhong
Published: May 2016

Si nanopyramids have been suggested as one of the most promising Si nanostructures to realize high‐efficient ultrathin solar cells or photodetectors due to their low surface area enhancement and outstanding ability to enhance light absorption. However, the present techniques to fabricate Si nanopyramids are either complex or expensive. In parallel, disordered nanostructures are believed to be extremely effective to realize broadband light trapping for solar cells. Here, a simple and cost‐effective method is presented to form random Si nanopyramids based on an all‐solution process, the mechanism behind which is the successful transfer of the generation site of bubbles from Si surface to the introduced Ag nanoparticles so that OH− can react with the entire Si surface to naturally form random and dense Si nucleus. For optical performance, it is experimentally demonstrated that the random Si nanopyramid textured ultrathin crystalline Si (c‐Si) can achieve light trapping approaching the Lambertian limit. Importantly, it is revealed, by numerical calculations, that random Si nanopyramids outperform periodic ones on broadband light absorption due to more excited optical resonance modes. The finding provides a new opportunity to improve the performance of ultrathin c‐Si solar cells with a simpler process and lower cost.
Organometal Halide Perovskite Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Deng Wei , Xu Xiuzhen , Zhang Xiujuan , Zhang Yedong , Jin Xiangcheng , Wang Liang , Lee Shuit‐Tong , Jie Jiansheng
Published: May 2016

Organometal halide perovskites quantum dots (OHP‐QDs) with bright, color‐tunable, and narrow‐band photoluminescence have significant advantages in display, lighting, and laser applications. Due to sparse concentrations and difficulties in the enrichment of OHP‐QDs, production of large‐area uniform films of OHP‐QDs is a challenging task, which largely impedes their use in electroluminescence devices. Here, a simple dip‐coating method has been reported to effectively fabricate large‐area uniform films of OHP‐QDs. Using this technique, multicolor OHP‐QDs light‐emitting diodes (OQ‐LEDs) emitting in blue, blue‐green, green, orange, and red color have been successfully produced by simply tuning the halide composition or size of QDs. The blue, green, and red OQ‐LEDs exhibited, respectively, a maximum luminance of 2673, 2398, and 986 cd m−2 at a current efficiency of 4.01, 3.72, and 1.52 cd A−1, and an external quantum efficiency of 1.38%, 1.06%, and 0.53%, which are much better than most LEDs based on OHP films. The packaged OQ‐LEDs show long‐term stability in air (humidity ≈50%) for at least 7 d. The results demonstrate the great potential of the dip‐coating method to fabricate large‐area uniform films for various QDs. The high‐efficiency OQ‐LEDs also demonstrate the promising potential of OHP‐QDs for low‐cost display, lighting, and optical communication applications.
Investigation of Migration and Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Five‐Layered Collagenous Electrospun Scaffold Mimicking Native Cartilage Structure
Authors: Reboredo Jenny W. , Weigel Tobias , Steinert Andre , Rackwitz Lars , Rudert Maximilian , Walles Heike
Published: May 2016

Cartilage degeneration is the major cause of chronic pain, lost mobility, and reduced quality of life for over estimated 150 million osteoarthritis sufferers worldwide. Despite intensive research, none of the available therapies can restore the hyaline cartilage surface beyond just fibrous repair. To overcome these limitations, numerous cell‐based approaches for cartilage repair are being explored that aim to provide an appropriate microenvironment for chondrocyte maintenance and differentiation of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) toward the chondrogenic lineage. Articular cartilage is composed of highly organized collagen network that entails the tissue into four distinct zones and each zone into three different regions based on differences in matrix morphology and biochemistry. Current cartilage implants cannot establish the hierarchical tissue organization that seems critical for normal cartilage function. Therefore, in this study, a structured, multilayered collagen scaffold designed for the replacement of damaged cartilage is presented that allows repopulation by host cells and synthesis of a new natural matrix. By using the electrospinning method, the potential to engineer a scaffold consisting of two different collagen types is obtained. With the developed collagen scaffold, a five‐layered biomaterial is created that has the potency to induce the differentiation of human bone marrow derived MSCs toward the chondrogenic lineage.
Physical, Chemical, and Biological Structures based on ROS‐Sensitive Moieties that are Able to Respond to Oxidative Microenvironments
Authors: Tapeinos Christos , Pandit Abhay
Published: May 2016

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) (H2O2, OCl−, •OH, O2−) are a family of reactive molecules that are generated intracellularly and are engaged in many biological processes. In physiological concentrations, ROS act as signaling molecules to a number of metabolic pathways; however, in excess they can be harmful to living organisms. Overproduction of ROS has been related to many pathophysiological conditions and a number of studies have been reported in elucidating their mechanism in these conditions. With the aim of harnessing this role, a number of imaging tools and therapeutic compounds have been developed. Here these imaging and therapeutic tools are reviewed and particularly those structures with ROS‐sensitivity based on their biomedical applications and their functional groups. There is also a brief discussion about the method of preparation as well as the mechanism of action.
Ferrocene‐Grafted Photochromic Triads Based on a Sterically Hindered Ethene Bridge: Redox‐Switchable Fluorescence and Gated Photochromism
Authors: Cai Yunsong , Gao Ya , Luo Qianfu , Li Mengqi , Zhang Junji , Tian He , Zhu Wei‐Hong
Published: May 2016

Multifunctional switches, as well as gated photochromism, are particularly challenging. Here, a ferrocene (Fc)‐modified photochromic diarylethene (DAE) with sterically hindered ethene bridge, in which the photo‐inactive parallel conformer and photoactive antiparallel conformer are individually investigated, is reported. The photoswitchable triad system (parallel conformer p‐Fc and anti‐parallel ap‐Fc) contains three functional parts: photochromic DAE unit, naphthalimide chromophore, and redox‐active ferrocene. Upon incorporation of ferrocene unit, the photochromic efficiency in the anti‐parallel triad conformer ap‐Fc is blocked to a great extent in the ferrocene state but distinctly enhanced in the ferrocenium state via chemical or electrochemical stimuli, thereby constructing redox‐gated photochromism. Meanwhile, the reversible redox between ferrocene and ferrocenium states can also switch “OFF/ON” the fluorescence of naphthalimide chromophore via photoinduced electron transfer pathway (PET). The fluorescence and photoisomerization in the triad system are well modulated with chemical‐ or electrochemical redox and light stimuli, which enables the specific gated photochromism and fluorescence switches work in multi‐addressable states.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Lithium Storage Behavior of Carbon Nanotubes Filled with Iron Sulfide Nanoparticles
Authors: Yu Wan‐Jing , Liu Chang , Zhang Lili , Hou Peng‐Xiang , Li Feng , Zhang Bao , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: May 2016

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) filled with iron sulfide nanoparticles (NPs) are prepared by inserting sulfur and ferrocene into the hollow core of CNTs followed by heat treatment. It is found that pyrrhotite‐11T iron sulfide (Fe‐S) NPs with an average size of ≈15 nm are encapsulated in the tubular cavity of the CNTs (Fe‐S@CNTs), and each particle is a single crystal. When used as the anode material of lithium‐ion batteries, the Fe‐S@CNT material exhibits excellent electrochemical lithium storage performance in terms of high reversible capacity, good cyclic stability, and desirable rate capability. In situ transmission electron microscopy studies show that the CNTs not only play an essential role in accommodating the volume expansion of the Fe‐S NPs but also provide a fast transport path for Li ions. The results demonstrate that CNTs act as a unique nanocontainer and reactor that permit the loading and formation of electrochemically active materials with desirable electrochemical lithium storage performance. CNTs with their superior structural stability and Li‐ion transfer kinetics are responsible for the improved rate capability and cycling performance of Fe‐S NPs in CNTs.
A novel consolidation method to measure powder flow properties using a small amount of material
Authors: Koynov Sara , Muzzio Fernando J. , Glasser Benjamin J.
Published: May 2016

Bulk flow property characterization often requires large powder samples (tens to hundreds of grams). However, many applications have limited sample availability, due to cost, material availability, safety concerns, etc. Therefore, reducing the amount of required material is of interest. A novel compressibility method is introduced using less than 50 mg, for the materials studied here. The effect of particle size and cohesion due to capillary forces are determined using a small‐scale compressibility cell mounted on a texture analyzer. It is found that the powder bed consolidation occurred in two regimes, described using the Walker and Heckel equations. The small‐scale compressibility method was compared to known behavior at larger scales and validated against the FT4 compressibility test. It was found that bulk behavior could be observed using the small‐scale compressibility method. Additional behavior caused by small‐scale events, which are averaged out in large‐scale measurements, are revealed in the small‐scale device introduced here. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 4193–4200, 2016
Source‐specific workplace social support and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein levels among Japanese workers: A 1‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Eguchi Hisashi , Shimazu Akihito , Kawakami Norito , Inoue Akiomi , Tsutsumi Akizumi
Published: May 2016

Background

This study investigated the prospective association between source‐specific workplace social support and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) levels in workers in Japan.

Methods

We conducted a 1‐year prospective cohort study with 1,487 men and 533 women aged 18–65 years. Participants worked at two manufacturing worksites in Japan and were free of major illness. We used multivariable linear regression analyses to evaluate the prospective association between supervisor and coworker support at baseline, and hs‐CRP levels at follow‐up. We conducted the analyses separately for men and women.

Results

For women, high supervisor support at baseline was significantly associated with lower hs‐CRP levels at follow‐up (β = −0.109,P < 0.01), whereas coworker support at baseline was not significantly associated with hs‐CRP levels at follow‐up. Associations between supervisor and coworker support and hs‐CRP levels were not significant for men.

Conclusions

Supervisor support may have beneficial effects on inflammatory markers in working women. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:676–684, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pupil diameter for confirmation of brain death in adult organ donors in Japan
Authors: Sagishima Katsuyuki , Kinoshita Yoshihiro
Published: May 2016

Aim

The criteria for brain death in Japan include a bilateral pupil diameter of ≥4 mm. We evaluated the appropriateness of a 4‐mm pupil diameter in adult brain‐dead donors in Japan.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 148 consecutive adult brain‐dead donors with an average age of 46 years. All records were anonymously registered to the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare before 2001) from the various designated emergency institutes that performed organ donation under brain death from 1999 to 2012 in Japan.

Results

All donors had a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 3, absence of all seven brain stem reflexes, an isoelectric electroencephalogram for >30 min, and apnea as tested by the standard method. All of these examinations were repeated approximately 6 h later for confirmation. The pupil diameter (average ± standard deviation) was 6.1 ± 1.1 mm at the first assessment and 6.4 ± 1.1 mm approximately 6 h later. The 95% probability distribution as calculated by statistical analysis was 3.93–8.30 mm in the left eye and 3.88–8.28 mm in the right eye in the first assessment, and 4.25–8.58 mm in the left eye and 4.32–8.43 mm in the right eye approximately 6 h later.

Conclusion

Despite the various original causes of brain death, we conclude that a pupil diameter of ≥4 mm is a reasonable criterion for brain death in adults.
Delivering bad news in emergency care medicine
Authors: Maynard Douglas W.
Published: May 2016

Forecasting is a strategy for delivering bad news and is compared to two other strategies, stalling and being blunt. Forecasting provides some warning that bad news is forthcoming without keeping the recipient in a state of indefinite suspense (stalling) or conveying the news abruptly (being blunt). Forecasting appears to be more effective than stalling or being blunt in helping a recipient to “realize” the bad news because it involves the deliverer and recipient in a particular social relation. The deliverer of bad news initiates the telling by giving an advance indication of the bad news to come; this allows the recipient to calculate the news in advance of its final presentation, when the deliverer confirms what the recipient has been led to anticipate. Thus, realization of bad news emerges from intimate collaboration, whereas stalling and being blunt require recipients to apprehend the news in a social vacuum. Exacerbating disruption to recipients' everyday world, stalling and being blunt increase the probability of misapprehension (denying, blaming, taking the situation as a joke, etc.) and thereby inhibit rather than facilitate realization. Particular attention is paid to the “perspective display sequence”, a particular forecasting strategy that enables both confirming the recipient's perspective and using that perspective to affirm the clinical news. An example from acute or emergency medicine is examined at the close of the paper.
Synthesis and characterization of azo sulfaguanidine complexes and their application for corrosion inhibition of silicate glass
Authors: El‐Wakiel Nadia A.
Published: May 2016

A new azo dye ligand of sulfaguanidine with 5‐nitro‐8‐hydroxyquinoline and its Mn(II), Ni(II), Co(II) and Cu(II) complexes were synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, inductively coupled plasma, molar conductance, X‐ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, magnetic moment measurements, and infrared, 1H NMR, electron impact mass and UV–visible spectral studies. The spectral studies and analytical data revealed that the azo dye ligand acts as a monobasic bidentate ligand via deprotonated OH and nitrogen atom of the azo group. The data support the mononuclear formulation of all complexes, except Cu(II) complex that has a binuclear formulation with a 1:2 metal to ligand ratio. The complexes have tetrahedral structure except Ni(II) which has octahedral geometry. The molar conductance data reveal that all the metal complexes are non‐electrolytic in nature The average particle size of the ligand and its Mn(II), Ni(II), Co(II) and Cu(II) complexes is 0.12–0.91 nm. The effect of these compounds for improvement of chemical durability of silicate glass in 0.1 M HCl was studied. Window and soda‐lime silica glass were taken as samples for the durability experiments. The inhibition efficiency of the ligand and its complexes for corrosion of glass surfaces after dissolution experiments was evaluated quantitatively using the specific weight loss method and qualitatively using scanning electron microscopy. The inhibition efficiencies of the tested compounds follow the order Co(II) complex > Mn(II) complex > Ni(II) complex > H3L > Cu(II) complex. The chemical durability improvement is 88.12–56.25% and 87.99–51.96% for window and soda‐lime silica glass, respectively. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Residue level and dissipation pattern of lepimectin in shallots using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection
Authors: Kim Sung‐Woo , Rahman Md. Musfiqur , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Truong Lieu T. B. , Choi Jeong‐Heui , Park Joon‐Seong , Kim Mi‐Ra , Shin Ho‐Chul , Shim Jae‐Han
Published: May 2016

Lepimectin, as an emulsifiable concentrate, was sprayed on shallots at the recommended dose rate (10 mL/20 L) to determine its residue levels, dissipation pattern, pre‐harvest residue limits (PHRLs), and health risk. Samples were randomly collected over 10 days, extracted with acetonitrile, purified using an amino solid‐phase extraction (NH2‐SPE) cartridge and analyzed using a high‐performance liquid chromatography–photodiode array detection method. Field‐incurred samples were confirmed using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The linearity was excellent, with a determination coefficient (R2) of ≥0.9991. The recoveries at two spiking levels (0.2 and 1.0 mg/kg) ranged from 84.49 to 87.64% with relative standard deviations of ≤7.04%. The developed method was applied to field samples grown in separate greenhouses, one located in Naju and one in Muan, in the Republic of Korea. The dissipation pattern was described by first‐order kinetics with half‐lives of 1.9 (Naju) and 1.7 days (Muan). The PHRL curves indicated that, if the lepimectin residues are <0.18 (Naju) and <0.13 mg/kg (Muan) 5 days before harvest, the residue levels will be lower than the maximum residue limit (0.05 mg/kg) upon harvesting. The risk assessment data indicated that lepimectin is safe for use in the cultivation of shallots, with no risk of detrimental effects to the consumer.
Quantitative determination of saroglitazar, a predominantly PPAR alpha agonist, in human plasma by a LC–MS/MS method utilizing electrospray ionization in a positive mode
Authors: Ghoghari Ashok , Dash Ranjeet , Bhatt Chandrakant , Singh Kanchan , Jha Anil , Patel Harilal , Gupta Rahul , Kansagra Kevinkumar , Srinivas Nuggehally R.
Published: May 2016

A sensitive LC–MS/MS method was developed and validated for quantitation of saroglitazar using turboion spray interface with positive ion mode. A liquid–liquid extraction, with a mixture of dichloromethane and diethyl ether, was employed for the extraction of saroglitazar and glimepiride (IS) from human plasma. The chromatographic separation was achieved using an ACE‐5, C18 (4.6 × 100 mm) column with a gradient mobile phase comprising acetonitrile and ammonium acetate buffer with trifluoracetic acid in purified water. Both analytes were separated within 10 min with retention times of 4.52 and 2.57 min for saroglitazar and IS, respectively. Saroglitazar quantitation was achieved by the summation of two MRM transition pairs (m/z 440.2 to m/z 366.0 and m/z 440.2 to m/z 183.1), while that of IS was achieved using transition pair m/z 491.3 to m/z 352.0. The calibration standards of saroglitazar showed linearity from 0.2 to 500 ng/mL, with a lower limit of quantitation of 0.2 ng/mL. The biases for inter‐ and intra‐batch assays were −7.51–1.15% and −11.21 to −3.25%, respectively, while the corresponding precisions were 5.04–8.06% and 1.53–7.68%, respectively. The developed method was used to monitor the plasma concentrations of saroglitazar in clinical samples.
Screening and identification of Caulis Sinomenii bioactive ingredients with dual‐target NF‐κB inhibition and β2‐AR agonizing activities
Authors: Sun Dan , Han Yanqi , Wang Weiya , Wang Zengyong , Ma Xiaoyao , Hou Yuanyuan , Bai Gang
Published: May 2016

Caulis Sinomenii (CS) is a valuable traditional medicine in China. Its extract can act as an anti‐inflammatory agent and a vascular smooth muscle relaxant. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, we developed a simple dual‐target method based on ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry combined with a dual‐target bioactive screening assay for anti‐inflammatory and antispasmodic activities to characterize the chemical structure of various bioactive compounds of CS rapidly. Seven potential NF‐κB inhibitors were identified, including laudanosoline‐1‐O‐xylopyranose, 6‐O‐methyl‐laudanosoline‐1‐O‐glucopyranoside, menisperine, sinomenine, laurifoline, magnoflorine and norsinoacutin. Furthermore, IL‐6 and IL‐8 assays confirmed the anti‐inflammatory effects of these potential NF‐κB inhibitors, in which laudanosoline‐1‐O‐d‐xylopyranose and menisperine were revealed as novel NF‐κB inhibitors. Among the seven identified alkaloids, three potential β2‐adrenergic receptor agonists, including sinomenine, magnoflorine and laurifoline, were characterized using a luciferase reporter system to measure for the activity of β2‐adrenergic receptor agonists. Finally, sinomenine, magnoflorine and laurifoline were identified not only as potential NF‐κB inhibitors but also as potential β2‐adrenegic receptor agonists, which is the first time this has been reported. Molecular dynamic simulation and docking results suggest that the three dual‐bioactive constituents could not only inhibit Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAK strain‐induced inflammatory responses via a negative regulation of the Braf protein that participates in MAPK signaling pathway but also activate the β2‐adrenegic receptor. These results suggest that CS extract has dual signaling activities with potential clinical application as a novel drug for asthma.
Quantitative determination of intracellular Asulacrine in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and its application to cellular pharmacokinetic studies of P188 modified liposomes
Authors: Zang Xiaojie , Zhang Jingwei , Zhou Yaqian , Chen Qianying , Peng Ying , Sun Jianguo , Liu Jiali , Liu Wenyue , Wang Guangji , Zhou Fang
Published: May 2016

Asulacrine (ASL), an analogue of amsacrine, has shown higher anti‐breast and anti‐lung cancer activity. Hereby, a new sensitive and selective liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) method was developed to determine intracellular asulacrine. The chromatographic separation was performed on an Agilent Zorbax Extend‐C18 column (2.1 mm i.d. × 50 mm, 5 μm) using gradient elution with water (2 mmol/L ammonium acetate and 0.1% acetic acid) and acetonitrile as the mobile phase. The detection was achieved with selected ion monitoring mode using electrospray ionization in positive mode with target ions at m/z 465.3 and m/z 326.1 for asulacrine and midazolam, respectively. The standard curve showed a good linearity with the lower limit of quantification of 1 ng/mL, as a result of which, the trace concentration of ASL in cell suspension could be quantified. The intra‐ and inter‐day accuracy ranged from −5.28 to 6.5% and from −6.32 to 1.05%, and the intra‐ and inter‐day precisions were no more than 7.65% and 11.71%, respectively. Additionally, no degradation of asulacrine was observed during stability evaluation. The method was proved to be powerful and practical to determine and compare the intracellular distribution and kinetics of ASL under different formulations in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells.
Normative values of quantitative sensory testing in Hispanic Latino population
Authors: González‐Duarte Alejandra , Lem‐Carrillo Mónica , Guerrero‐Torres Lorena
Published: May 2016

Background

Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) is more often used because of the increasing recognition of small fiber neuropathy.

Methods

We studied QST in a systematic way in an age‐stratified cohort of 83 neurological‐free Hispanic Latinamerican patients. Predefined standardized stimuli were applied using the method of limits.

Results

WDT range from 2.2 to 3.3°C in hands, and from 4.0°C up to 6.6°C in feet. Cold detection threshold range from 2.2 to 3.6°C in hands, and from 2.6°C to 4.5°C in feet. Heat‐induced pain (HP) was induced at lower temperatures than previously reported, with a range from 41.8°C to 44.5°C in hands and from 43.2 to 45.7°C in feet. Similar to HP, cold pain was also induced at much higher temperatures, between 21.4–17.3°C in hands and 21.5–16.5°C in feet. Vibratory stimuli ranged from 0.8 to 1.7 μ/sec in hands and from 1.4 to 3.5 μ/sec in feet.

Conclusion

Temperature and vibration thresholds were similar to those previously reported in other populations except for pain thresholds that were lower in this population than in the Caucasian population.
Expressions of SH3BP5, LMO3, and SNAP25 in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma cells and their association with clinical features
Authors: Kobayashi Kyoko , Yamaguchi Motoko , Miyazaki Kana , Imai Hiroshi , Yokoe Kaori , Ono Ryoichi , Nosaka Tetsuya , Katayama Naoyuki
Published: May 2016

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is clinicopathologically and genetically heterogeneous with variable clinical outcomes. We previously identified signature genes overexpressed in CD5‐positive (CD5+) DLBCL, which is a poor prognostic subgroup of DLBCL. To elucidate the clinical significance of the protein expression of the signature genes overexpressed in CD5+ DLBCL with regard to all DLBCL, not otherwise specified (NOS), 10 genes (SH3BP5, LMO3, SNAP25, SYT5, SV2C, CABP1, FGF1, FGFR2, NEUROD1, and SYN2) were selected and examined immunohistochemically with samples from 28 patients with DLBCL, NOS. Only three protein expressions, SH3BP5, LMO3, and SNAP25, were detected in DLBCL cells and then analyzed further with samples from 187 patients with DLBCL, NOS. The SH3BP5, LMO3, and SNAP25 proteins were expressed in 60% (103/173), 34% (59/175), and 46% (77/168) of DLBCL patients, respectively. These protein expressions were associated with CD5 expression, and only SH3BP5 was frequently expressed in activated B‐cell‐like DLBCL (P = 0.046). Compared to the SH3BP5‐negative group, the SH3BP5+ group was correlated with elderly onset (>60 years, P = 0.0096) and advanced‐stage disease (stage III/IV, P = 0.037). The LMO3+ group showed a worse performance status (>1, P = 0.0004). The SH3BP5+ group and the LMO3+ group had significantly worse overall survival than the negative groups (P = 0.030, 0.034; respectively) for the entire group. In a subgroup analysis of patients treated with rituximab‐containing chemotherapy, there was no significant difference between groups. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing the protein expressions of SH3BP5, LMO3, and SNAP25 in DLBCL cells and their clinical significance in patients with DLBCL. The SH3BP5 and LMO3 protein expressions are associated with the baseline clinical characteristics of DLBCL.
Reduction in squamous cell carcinomas in mouse skin by dietary zinc supplementation
Authors: Sun Jin , Shen Rulong , Schrock Morgan S. , Liu James , Pan Xueliang , Quimby Donald , Zanesi Nicola , Druck Teresa , Fong Louise Y. , Huebner Kay
Published: May 2016

Inadequate dietary Zn consumption increases susceptibility to esophageal and other cancers in humans and model organisms. Since Zn supplementation can prevent cancers in rodent squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) models, we were interested in determining if it could have a preventive effect in a rodent skin cancer model, as a preclinical basis for considering a role for Zn in prevention of human nonmelanoma skin cancers, the most frequent cancers in humans. We used the 7,12‐dimethyl benzanthracene carcinogen/phorbol myristate acetate tumor promoter treatment method to induce skin tumors in Zn‐sufficient wild‐type and Fhit (human or mouse protein) knockout mice. Fhit protein expression is lost in >50% of human cancers, including skin SCCs, and Fhit‐deficient mice show increased sensitivity to carcinogen induction of tumors. We hypothesized that: (1) the skin cancer burdens would be reduced by Zn supplementation; (2) Fhit−/−(Fhit, murine fragile histidine triad gene) mice would show increased susceptibility to skin tumor induction versus wild‐type mice. 30 weeks after initiating treatment, the tumor burden was increased ~2‐fold in Fhit−/− versus wild‐type mice (16.2 versus 7.6 tumors, P < 0.001); Zn supplementation significantly reduced tumor burdens in Fhit−/− mice (males and females combined, 16.2 unsupplemented versus 10.3 supplemented, P = 0.001). Most importantly, the SCC burden was reduced after Zn supplementation in both strains and genders of mice, most significantly in the wild‐type males (P = 0.035). Although the mechanism(s) of action of Zn supplementation in skin tumor prevention is not known in detail, the Zn‐supplemented tumors showed evidence of reduced DNA damage and some cohorts showed reduced inflammation scores. The results suggest that mild Zn supplementation should be tested for prevention of skin cancer in high‐risk human cohorts.
In‐Phase Assembly of Slim DNA Lattices with Small Circular DNA Motifs via Short Connections of 11 and 16 Base Pairs
Authors: Wang Meng , Guo Xin , Jiang Chuan , Wang Xuemei , Xiao Shou‐Jun
Published: May 2016

Two kinds of stable motif were constructed: SAE (semi‐crossover, antiparallel, even half‐turns) tile from one small circular DNA molecule (42 or 64 nt) and two linear oligonucleotides; and DAE (double‐crossover, antiparallel, even half‐turns) tile from one small circular DNA molecule (42 or 64 nt) and four linear oligonucleotides. With the SAE tiles, in‐phase assembly of SAE–E (SAE tiles with even half‐turns as connections (–E)) with the shortest –E of 11 base pairs (bp) generated homogeneous nanotubes with an average length of over 14 μm and a diameter of 16–20 nm; with the DAE tiles, in‐phase assembly of DAE–O (DAE tiles with odd half‐turns as connections (–O)) with the shortest –O of 16 bp produced slim monolayer nanoyarns (25–30 nm wide), nanoscarfs (100–300 nm wide), and nanoribbons (∼100 nm wide). Interestingly, a phenomenon we term “knitting nanoyarns” into nanoscarfs was observed. Finally a curvature mechanism according to the ring rotation directions is suggested to explain the formation of nanotubes, wavy nanoyarns, nanoscarfs, and nanoribbons.
Clinical outcome and paravalvular leakage of the new balloon‐expandable Edwards Sapien 3 valve in comparison to its predecessor model (Edwards Sapien XT) in patients undergoing transfemoral aortic valve replacement
Authors: Bocksch Wolfgang , Grossmann Benita , Geisler Tobias , Steeg Martin , Droppa Michal , Jorbenadze Rezo , Haap Michael , Gawaz Meinrad , Fateh‐Moghadam Suzanne
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the 30‐day procedural, clinical and echocardiographic outcome of the new balloon‐expandable Edwards Sapien 3 (ES3) valve with the Edwards Sapien XT (ESXT). Background: Post‐implant paravalvular leaks (PVL) after transfemoral aortic valve replacement (TAVR) resulting in residual aortic regurgitation (AR) are a major limitation for long term outcome. New TAVR‐devices have to eliminate this problem.

Methods

Transfemoral TAVR was performed in 209 consecutive intermediate‐high‐risk surgical patients (pts) with symptomatic aortic stenosis (ESXT n = 102, ES3 n = 107). Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and 3‐dimensional computed tomography were used for valve size selection. Primary endpoint of the study was none/trace AR derived by TTE 30‐days after TAVR.

Results

All pts underwent successfully TAVR with a combined device success of 100/102 (99%) in ESXT and 107/107 (100%) in ES3 pts. Fluoroscopy time (ESXT 11.8 ± 0.5 min vs. ES3 10.0 ± 0.5 min, P = 0.003) and contrast (ESXT 188.9 ± 5.6 mL vs. ES3 170.4 ± 4.7 mL, P = 0.04) were significantly lower in ES3 patients. 30‐day clinical events did not differ. Transvalvular mean pressure gradients were significantly reduced to 7.4 ± 0.8 mmHg after ESXT and to 10.1± 0.4 mmHg after ES3 implantation. After 30 days none/trace AR was found in 34.3% (n = 35) of all ESXT pts in contrast to 89.7% (n = 96) of all ES3 patients. Moderate‐to‐severe AR was found rarely (ESXT 2.9% vs. ES3 0%, P = 0.073).

Conclusions

Although there was no significant difference in 30 day mortality, the newer ES3 valve reduced significantly residual paravalvular leakage. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Guidewire and microcatheter utilization patterns during antegrade wire escalation in chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention: Insights from a contemporary multicenter registry
Authors: Karatasakis Aris , Tarar Muhammad Nauman J. , Karmpaliotis Dimitri , Alaswad Khaldoon , Yeh Robert W. , Jaffer Farouc A. , Wyman R. Michael , Lombardi William L. , Grantham J. Aaron , Kandzari David E. , Lembo Nicholas J. , Moses Jeffrey W. , Kirtane Ajay J. , Parikh Manish , Garcia Santiago , Doing Anthony , Pershad Ashish , Shah Alpesh , Patel Mitul , Bahadorani John , Shoultz Charles A. , Danek Barbara A. , Thompson Craig A. , Banerjee Subhash , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: May 2016

Objectives

We sought to describe contemporary guidewire and microcatheter utilization for antegrade wire escalation (AWE) during chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

Equipment utilization for AWE has been variable and evolving over time.

Methods

We examined device utilization during 694 AWE attempts in 679 patients performed at 15 experienced US centers between May 2012 and April 2015.

Results

Mean age was 65.6 ± 9.7 years, and 85% of the patients were men. Successful wiring occurred in 436 AWE attempts (63%). Final technical and procedural success was 91% and 89%, respectively. The mean number of guidewire types used for AWE was 2.2 ± 1.4. The most frequently used guidewire types were the Pilot 200 (Abbott Vascular, 56% of AWE procedures), Fielder XT (Asahi Intecc, 45%), and the Confianza Pro 12 (Asahi Intecc, 28%). The same guidewires were the ones that most commonly crossed the occlusion: Pilot 200 (36% of successful AWE crossings), Fielder XT (20%), and Confianza Pro 12 (11%). A microcatheter or over‐the‐wire balloon was used for 81% of AWE attempts; the Corsair microcatheter (Asahi Intecc) was the most commonly used (44%). No significant association was found between guidewire type and incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE).

Conclusions

Our contemporary, multicenter CTO PCI registry demonstrates that the most commonly used wires for AWE are polymer‐jacketed guidewires. “Stiff” and polymer‐jacketed guidewires appear to provide high crossing rates without an increase in MACE or perforation, and may thus be considered for upfront use. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Complex bifurcation lesions: Randomized comparison of a fully bioresorbable modified t stenting strategy versus bifurcation reconstruction with a dedicated self‐expanding stent in combination with bioresorbable scaffolds, an OCT study: Rationale and design of the COBRA II trial
Authors: Bennett J. , Adriaenssens T. , Desmet W. , Dubois C.
Published: May 2016

Objective

There is an ongoing controversy regarding the efficacy and safety of different percutaneous stenting techniques for coronary bifurcation lesions needing >1 stent. The promise of safe vessel restoration with bioresorbable scaffolds (BRS) may not be transferable to complex double BRS bifurcation techniques, and permanent metallic scaffolding of the bifurcation core may be needed. We identified modified‐T stenting as the most promising fully bioresorbable 2‐stent strategy in a preclinical setting. The objective of this study is to assess acute performance and compare long‐term vessel healing with this strategy, versus an approach combining BRS with a dedicated metallic drug‐eluting bifurcation stent.

Study design

In a single center, 60 consecutive patients with true and complex coronary bifurcation lesions will be randomly assigned to treatment with the dedicated self‐expanding Axxess™ biolimus‐eluting bifurcation stent in the proximal main vessel and additional Absorb™ everolimus‐eluting BRS in the branches versus a modified T technique using Absorb™ only. Angiography and optical coherence tomography (OCT) will be performed immediately after implantation and at 30 months, and clinical follow‐up is foreseen up to 5 years after implantation. The primary endpoint is the change in minimal luminal area assessed with OCT from baseline to 30 months in pre‐specified bifurcation segments.

Conclusion

To date the use of Absorb™ BRS in complex coronary bifurcations has not been evaluated in a randomized clinical trial setting. The COBRA II study will examine the role and safety of a double BRS strategy in coronary bifurcations, alone or in combination with a metallic dedicated bifurcation device. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Severely regurgitant left ventricle to ascending aorta conduit in a failing fontan patient treated with a vascular endograft and melody transcatheter pulmonary valve via hybrid approach
Authors: Boe Brian A. , Rectenwald John E. , Bocks Martin L.
Published: May 2016

A 28‐year‐old male with single ventricular heart disease status post Fontan palliation and subsequent placement of left ventricle to ascending aorta (LV‐AAo) valved conduit developed ascites and edema. Diagnostic catheterization revealed elevated ventricular end diastolic pressures (EDP) secondary to severe LV‐AAo conduit regurgitation. Given the unique anatomy, surgical access via the right axillary artery provided optimal route for transcatheter valve implantation within the conduit. The procedure resulted in significant hemodynamic improvement with no complications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Total Synthesis of Δ12‐Prostaglandin J3: Evolution of Synthetic Strategies to a Streamlined Process
Authors: Nicolaou K. C. , Pulukuri Kiran Kumar , Yu Ruocheng , Rigol Stephan , Heretsch Philipp , Grove Charles I. , Hale Christopher R. H. , ElMarrouni Abdelatif
Published: May 2016

The total synthesis of Δ12‐prostaglandin J3 (Δ12‐PGJ3, 1), a reported leukemia stem cell ablator, through a number of strategies and tactics is described. The signature cross‐conjugated dienone structural motif of 1 was forged by an aldol reaction/dehydration sequence from key building blocks enone 13 and aldehyde 14, whose lone stereocenters were generated by an asymmetric Tsuji–Trost reaction and an asymmetric Mukaiyama aldol reaction, respectively. During this program, a substituent‐governed regioselectivity pattern for the Rh‐catalyzed C−H functionalization of cyclopentenes and related olefins was discovered. The evolution of the synthesis of 1 from the original strategy to the final streamlined process proceeded through improvements in the construction of both fragments 13 and 14, exploration of the chemistry of the hitherto underutilized chiral lactone synthon 57, and a diastereoselective alkylation of a cyclopentenone intermediate. The described chemistry sets the stage for large‐scale production of Δ12‐PGJ3 and designed analogues for further biological and pharmacological studies.
Disparities in cancer treatment among patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Suneja Gita , Lin Chun Chieh , Simard Edgar P. , Han Xuesong , Engels Eric A. , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Patients with cancer who are infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are less likely to receive cancer treatment compared with HIV‐uninfected individuals. However, to the authors' knowledge, the impact of insurance status and comorbidities is unknown.

METHODS

Data from the National Cancer Data Base were used to study nonelderly adults diagnosed with several common cancers from 2003 to 2011. Cancer treatment was defined as chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, or any combination during the first course of treatment. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine associations between HIV status and lack of cancer treatment, and identify predictors for lack of treatment among HIV‐infected patients.

RESULTS

A total of 10,265 HIV‐infected and 2,219,232 HIV‐uninfected cases were included. In multivariate analysis, HIV‐infected patients with cancer were found to be more likely to lack cancer treatment for cancers of the head and neck (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.48; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.09‐2.01), upper gastrointestinal tract (aOR, 2.62; 95% CI, 2.04‐3.37), colorectum (aOR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.17‐2.48), lung (aOR, 2.46; 95% CI, 2.19‐2.76), breast (aOR, 2.14; 95% CI, 1.16‐3.98), cervix (aOR, 2.81; 95% CI, 1.77‐4.45), prostate (aOR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.69‐2.76), Hodgkin lymphoma (aOR, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.66‐2.22), and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (aOR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.65‐2.00). Predictors of a lack of cancer treatment among HIV‐infected individuals varied by tumor type (solid tumor vs lymphoma), but black race and a lack of private insurance were found to be predictors for both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In the United States, HIV‐infected patients with cancer appear to be less likely to receive cancer treatment regardless of insurance and comorbidities. To the authors' knowledge, the current study is the largest study of cancer treatment in HIV‐infected patients with cancer in the United States and provides evidence of cancer treatment disparities even after controlling for differences with regard to insurance status and comorbidities. Further work should focus on addressing differential cancer treatment. Cancer 2016;122:2399–2407. © 2016 American Cancer Society.