bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome after transcatheter occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus in infants less than 6 kg: A national study from United Kingdom and Ireland
Authors: Kang Sok‐Leng , Jivanji Salim , Mehta Chetan , Tometzki Andrew J. , Derrick Graham , Yates Robert , Khambadkone Sachin , de Giovanni Joseph , Stumper Oliver , Dhillon Rami , Bhole Vinay , Slavik Zdenek , Rigby Michael , Noonan Patrick , Smith Ben , Knight Brodie , Richens Trevor , Wilson Neil , Walsh Kevin , James Adam , Thomson John , Bentham Jamie , Hayes Nicholas , Nazir Sajid , Adwani Satish , Shauq Arjamand , Ramaraj Ram , Duke Christopher , Taliotis Demetris , Kudumula Vikram , Yong San‐Fui , Morgan Gareth , Rosenthal Eric , Krasemann Thomas , Qureshi Shakeel , Crossland David , Hermuzi Tony , Martin Robin P.
Published: August 2017

Objectives

This study aimed to report our national experience with transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) occlusion in infants weighing <6 kg.

Background

The technique of transcatheter PDA closure has evolved in the past two decades and is increasingly used in smaller patients but data on safety and efficacy are limited.

Methods

Patients weighing < 6 kg in whom transcatheter PDA occlusion was attempted in 13 tertiary paediatric cardiology units in the United Kingdom and Ireland were retrospectively analyzed to review the outcome and complications.

Results

A total of 408 patients underwent attempted transcatheter PDA closure between January 2004 and December 2014. The mean weight at catheterization was 4.9 ± 1.0 kg and mean age was 5.7 ± 3.0 months. Successful device implantation was achieved in 374 (92%) patients without major complication and of these, complete occlusion was achieved in 356 (95%) patients at last available follow‐up. Device embolization occurred in 20 cases (5%). The incidence of device related obstruction to the left pulmonary artery or aorta and access related peripheral vascular injury were low. There were no deaths related to the procedure.

Conclusions

Transcatheter closure of PDA can be accomplished in selected infants weighing <6 kg despite the manufacturer's recommended weight limit of 6 kg for most ductal occluders. The embolization rate is higher than previously reported in larger patients. Retrievability of the occluder and duct morphology needs careful consideration before deciding whether surgical ligation or transcatheter therapy is the better treatment option.
Acute and mid‐term outcomes of stent implantation for recurrent coarctation of the aorta between the Norwood operation and fontan completion: A multi‐center Pediatric Interventional Cardiology Early Career Society Investigation
Authors: Aldoss Osamah , Goldstein Bryan H. , Danon Saar , Goreczny Sebastian , Gray Robert G. , Sathanandam Shyam , Whiteside Wendy , Williams Derek A. , Zampi Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2017

Objectives

We sought to evaluate outcomes of stent implantation (SI) for recurrent coarctation of the aorta (RC) following the Norwood operation.

Background

RC is common following the Norwood operation. Balloon angioplasty (BA) is standard treatment but may result in unsatisfactory relief of RC. SI may improve RC, but outcome data are limited.

Methods

We performed a multi‐center retrospective study of patients who underwent SI for RC between the Norwood operation and Fontan completion. Outcomes were examined, including procedural success, serious adverse events (SAE), and freedom from re‐intervention. A core laboratory was utilized to review angiograms. Coarctation Index (CI) was calculated before and after SI. Paired t‐test and Wilcoxon signed‐rank test were used to compare pre‐ and post‐SI variables.

Results

Thirty‐three patients at 8 centers underwent SI for RC at a median age of 5 months (IQR 4.1, 13.3) and weight of 5.9 kg (5.2, 8.6). Aortic arch gradient improved from 20 (15, 24) to 0 (0, 2) mmHg following SI (P < 0.0001). The median CI improved from 0.54 (0.43, 0.62) to 0.97 (0.89, 1.06) following SI (P < 0.0001). There were no procedural deaths but SAEs occurred in 12 (36%) patients. During a median follow‐up duration of 29.7 months (6.8, 48.0), freedom from death or heart transplant was 82%, and from re‐intervention was 45%, with median time to re‐intervention of 20.1 months (11.4, 40.3).

Conclusions

SI for treatment of RC in patients after the Norwood operation provides excellent acute relief of obstruction. Intraprocedural hemodynamic instability is common and re‐intervention is frequent at mid‐term follow‐up.
Persistent serum creatinine increase following contrast‐induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Briguori Carlo , Quintavalle Cristina , De Micco Francesca , Visconti Gabriella , Di Palma Vito , Napolitano Giovanni , Focaccio Amelia , Condorelli Gerolama
Published: August 2017

Background

Contrast‐induced acute kidney injury (CI‐AKI) may led to both a transient and a persistent serum creatinine (sCr) increase.

Objectives

To assess whether serum cystatin C (sCyC) and urine and serum neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (uNGAL, sNGAL) are useful in the early identification of persistent sCr increase following CI‐AKI.

Methods

One hundred and eighteen patients who developed CI‐AKI were included into the study. Persistent sCr elevation was defined as a persistent increase ≥0.3 mg dL−1 at 1 month after contrast media (CM) administration.

Results

sCr levels recovered in 87 patients (74%; Transient group), whereas a persistent elevation of sCr was observed in the remaining 31 patients (26%; Persistent group). By multivariable logistic regression analysis, independent predictors of persistent sCr increase were insulin therapy, uNGAL at 48 hr and absolute sCr difference between 48 and 72 hr. On the contrary, sCyC assessment did not help in the early identification of this subset of patients. By receiver operating curve analysis, the best cutoff values for predicting persistent sCr increase were uNGAL ≥0.50 ng dL−1 at 48 hr, and the absolute sCr increase ≥0.20 mg dL−1 between 48 and 72 hr.

Conclusions

uNGAL ≥0.50 ng dL−1 at 48 hr and absolute sCr increase ≥0.20 mg dL−1 between 48 and 72 hr but not sCyC are useful in the early identification of patients developing persistent sCr increase after CM administration.
From Gardner fibroma diagnosis to constitutional APC mutation detection: a one‐way street
Authors: Santoro Claudia , Giugliano Teresa , Bifano Delfina , D'Anna Carolina , D'Onofrio Vittoria , Perrotta Silverio
Published: August 2017

Key Clinical Message

We report a young child without a family history of FAP, who promptly underwent APC testing after the histological confirmation of a paraspinal GAF that was not isolated. Our case report reinforces the suggestion advanced by previous authors for an APC analysis in all patients with GAF.
Synthesis of Spirocyclic Pyrrolidines: Advanced Building Blocks for Drug Discovery
Authors: Chalyk Bohdan A. , Butko Maryna V. , Yanshyna Oksana O. , Gavrilenko Konstantin S. , Druzhenko Tetiana V. , Mykhailiuk Pavel K.
Published: August 2017

In the context of drug discovery, novel spirocyclic pyrrolidines have been synthesized in two steps from common three‐ to seven‐membered‐ring (hetero)alicyclic ketones. The key transformation is a reaction between an electron‐deficient exocyclic alkene and an in situ generated N‐benzyl azomethine ylide. The developed method has been used to synthesize the central diamine core of the known antibacterial agents Sitafloxacin and Olamufloxacin.
Metal ions from S‐PRG filler have the potential to prevent periodontal disease
Authors: Iwamatsu‐Kobayashi Yoko , Abe Syouta , Fujieda Yoshiyasu , Orimoto Ai , Kanehira Masafumi , Handa Keisuke , Venkataiah Venkata Suresh , Zou Wei , Ishikawa Masaki , Saito Masahiro
Published: August 2017

The surface pre‐reacted glass ionomer (S‐PRG) filler, a component of composite resin, is capable of releasing metal ions that possess antibacterial activity against caries and periodontal pathogens. Although S‐PRG has been suggested to be involved in oral disease prevention, no reports have been published regarding its preventive effect on periodontal disease in vivo. The present study investigated whether the eluate from S‐PRG (S‐PRG eluate) has a suppressive effect on tissue destruction induced in a mouse model of ligature‐induced periodontal disease. Twenty‐seven C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups of nine animals each, no ligature group (Lig(−)), ligature group (Lig(+)S‐PRG(−)) and ligature with S‐PRG eluate group (Lig(+)S‐PRG(+)). Alveolar bone loss was evaluated using micro‐computed tomography scanning. Histologic changes were detected by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The infiltration of inflammatory cells was assessed by Ly6G and F4/80 staining immunohistochemically. The distribution of metal ions was detected by time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. S‐PRG eluate clearly inhibited alveolar bone loss and bone density. The histological analysis revealed that S‐PRG eluate reduced destruction of the collagen bundle in the periodontal ligament and the infiltration of inflammatory cells. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the S‐PRG eluate significantly suppressed the number of infiltrating neutrophils and macrophages. Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry analysis revealed that more boron ions were present in the Lig(+)S‐PRG(+) group than in the Lig(+)S‐PRG(−) group. Our results suggest that the S‐PRG eluate has a preventive effect against tissue destruction in periodontal disease through its anti‐inflammatory effects in vivo.
Carbonylation of Aziridines as a Powerful Tool for the Synthesis of Functionalized β‐Lactams
Authors: Piens Nicola , D'hooghe Matthias
Published: August 2017

Within heterocyclic chemistry, β‐lactams comprise an extraordinary class of strained compounds, recognized for their biological importance as potent antibiotics and their chemical value as flexible building blocks for the construction of diverse nitrogen‐containing structures. Among the synthetic routes available to access this interesting scaffold, the carbonylation of aziridines, in which carbon monoxide is inserted into one of the ring carbon–nitrogen bonds, is praised for its efficiency and remarkable regio‐ and stereoselectivity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of aziridine‐to‐azetidin‐2‐one carbonylation studies. The protocols are categorized according to the different transition metals (i.e. rhodium, palladium, nickel, iron, and cobalt) that have been employed (in a catalytic or stoichiometric amount) to effect this transformation.
Converting Waste Toilet Paper into Electricity: A First‐Stage Technoeconomic Feasibility Study
Authors: van der Roest Els , van der Spek Mijndert , Ramirez Andrea , van der Zwaan Bob , Rothenberg Gadi
Published: August 2017

We studied the possibility of converting waste toilet paper (WTP) into electricity. WTP is a waste stream with continuous availability and negative cost, but it is difficult to handle, as it contains fecal matter. The process we explored had two stages: WTP gasification followed by direct conversion into electricity in a high‐temperature solid‐oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The process was studied on a 10 ktpa scale by using real‐life parameter values obtained from industrial sources. We presented the basic system design, as well as its electricity yield and overall efficiency on the basis of detailed mass‐ and energy‐balance calculations. By explorative technoeconomic analysis and sensitivity analysis, we found an electric efficiency of 57 %, which is similar to that of a natural gas combined cycle plant. The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) was 20.3 ¢ kWh−1, which is comparable at present to that of residential photovoltaic installations. The system's capital costs are relatively high, mainly as a result of SOFC investment costs, but we expect these costs to decrease as the market of cells develops. The operating costs are relatively low, partly thanks to the high thermodynamic efficiency (≈70 %). Currently, the fuel costs are negative (because we use waste as a raw material), yet this could change if the value of WTP would increase as a result of this process. Learning effects could make the system more competitive in the future with an LCOE of approximately 11 ¢ kWh−1.
Role of gp91phox in hepatic macrophage programming and alcoholic liver disease
Authors: Wang Meng , Frasch S. Courtney , Li Guiying , Feng Dechun , Gao Bin , Xu Liangguo , Ir Diana , Frank Daniel N. , Bratton Donna L. , Ju Cynthia
Published: August 2017

Hepatic macrophages (MΦs) are important in the development and progression of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). This study investigates the role of gp91phox (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 2) in the severity of ALD and specifically in regulating hepatic MΦ efferocytic capability and the subsequent reprogramming associated with resolution of inflammation. After 4 weeks of ethanol feeding, more severe ALD developed in gp91phox−/− mice than in wild‐type (WT) C57Bl/6J mice, evidenced by increased liver injury and inflammation. This phenomenon was not sex dependent, and thus the majority of experiments were performed with female mice. While total hepatic MΦ numbers did not differ between genotypes, hepatic infiltrating MΦs (IMs) were slightly more numerous in gp91phox−/− mice, and both IMs and resident Kupffer cells displayed enhanced proinflammatory and reduced tissue‐restorative programming compared with these cells from WT mice. The ratio of proinflammatory IMs with higher expression of Ly6C (Ly6Chi) to anti‐inflammatory IMs with lower expression of Ly6C (Ly6Clow) was significantly higher in gp91phox−/− mice compared to WT mice. Greater numbers of apoptotic cells accumulated in the liver of gp91phox−/− mice compared to WT mice, and receptors for binding and engulfing apoptotic cells were expressed at much lower levels on both Kupffer cells and IMs of gp91phox−/− mice. Interactions with apoptotic cells (binding and engulfment) in vitro were significantly fewer for gp91phox−/− MΦs than for WT MΦs, resulting in diminished expression of tissue restorative mediators by hepatic MΦs of gp91phox−/− mice. Conclusion: gp91phox plays a critical role in the differentiation of proinflammatory hepatic MΦs to a tissue‐restorative phenotype, likely through programming for efferocytosis, and thereby lessens the severity of ALD. These findings enhance our understanding of the tissue environmental cues that regulate MΦ phenotypes. This knowledge could help in designing MΦ‐targeting strategies to prevent and treat ALD. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:765–779)
Reduced disease‐specific survival following a diagnosis of multiple primary cutaneous malignant melanomas—a nationwide, population‐based study
Authors: Utjés Deborah , Lyth Johan , Lapins Jan , Eriksson Hanna
Published: August 2017

Outcome data comparing patients with multiple primary invasive cutaneous malignant melanomas (MPMs) to single primary invasive cutaneous malignant melanomas (SPMs) show conflicting results. We have analyzed differences in disease‐specific survival between these patients in a nationwide population‐based setting. From the Swedish Melanoma Register, 27,235 patients were identified with a first invasive cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) between 1990 and 2007, followed‐up through 2013. Of these, 700 patients developed MPMs. Cox proportional hazard regression was used for adjusted cause‐specific hazard ratios (HRs). An interval of ≤5 years between CMM diagnoses was significantly correlated to a decreased CMM‐specific survival in Stage I–II MPM‐ vs. SPM‐patients (HR 1.32; 95% CI 1.04–1.67; p = 0.02). MPM‐patients with longer time interval between diagnoses experienced similar risk of CMM‐death as SPM‐patients. The risk of CMM‐death increased by almost 50% above the expected outcome according to stage of the index CMM by the diagnosis of a second CMM (HR 1.48; 95% CI 1.19–1.85; p < 0.001). MPM vs. SPM‐patients had a worse outcome (HR 1.38; 95% CI 1.05–1.83; p = 0.001). This emphasizes the importance of prevention efforts in SPM‐patients to decrease the risk of subsequent CMMs and has implications for more vigilant follow‐up in MPM‐patients.
Comparison of costs associated with substituting culture medium with saline solution for follicular flushing during oocyte retrieval
Authors: Loktionov Dmitry , Oduola Oladayo , Cloherty Jenny , Warner Sharon M. , Purandare Nikhil
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To compare culture medium and saline solution for follicular flushing during oocyte retrieval with assisted reproductive technologies.

Methods

The present retrospective study analyzed data collected at Galway Fertility Clinic, Galway, Ireland, between January 1, 2015 and August 31, 2016; all patients attending the clinic for in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection during this period were included. Data were stratified by whether follicular flushing was performed with culture medium or saline, and the oocyte yield rate, fertilization rate, embryo utilization rate, and biochemical and clinical pregnancy rates were compared between the groups.

Results

In total, 422 oocyte retrieval procedures with culture medium and 277 with normal saline were analyzed. The fertilization (P=0.676) and clinical pregnancy rates (P=0.593) did not differ between the groups. Using normal saline resulted in an approximately 41‐fold per‐patient cost saving compared with culture medium.

Conclusion

Switching from culture medium to normal saline for follicular flushing significantly reduced oocyte‐retrieval costs without adversely affecting reproductive outcomes.
Curcumin ameliorates diclofenac sodium‐induced nephrotoxicity in male albino rats
Authors: Ahmed Ahmady Y. , Gad Amany M. , El‐Raouf Ola M. Abd
Published: August 2017

Exposure to drugs often results in toxicity in the kidney which represents the major control system maintaining homeostasis of the body and thus is especially susceptible to xenobiotics. Nephrotoxicity is a life‐threatening side‐effect of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Diclofenac is one of the most frequently prescribed NSAIDs and have been reported to cause multiple organs damage. Curcumin (CUR) exhibits nephroprotective properties. Therefore, rats were divided into four groups; rats of groups 3 and 4 received diclofenac (100 mg/kg, i.m.), whereas rats of groups 2 and 4 received CUR (100 mg/kg, p.o.) for 3 days. Diclofenac revealed a significant increase in urea and creatinine levels and malondialdehyde concentration and marked reduction in catalase activity and reduced glutathione concentration. Histopathologically, diclofenac produced fatty changes and eosinophilic casts were detected in the renal tubules, those were attenuated by administration of CUR prior diclofenac.
Adaptive controller with RBF neural network for induction motor drive
Authors: Kılıç Erdal , Özçalık Hasan Rıza , Şit Sami
Published: August 2017

In this paper, the radial basis function neural network‐based model reference adaptive speed control for vector controlled induction motor drive system is presented. The speed control of induction motors is challenging because of their complex mathematical model, non‐linear structure, and time varying dynamics. The radial basis function neural network is used to compensate the non‐linearity which comes from the non‐linear state equations of induction motor model. Neural network parameters are online updated via gradient descent algorithm to minimize the error. The drive system has been tested under various operating conditions. This paper demonstrated benefits of the proposed control approach by comparing the algorithm to conventional PI controllers. The results show that the proposed controller ensures good robustness and stable operation of the system under variable speed and variable loads than the PI controller.
Influence of a three stage hybrid ultrasound–osmotic–frying process on production of low‐fat fried potato strips
Authors: Dehghannya Jalal , Abedpour Lida
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Fried potato is one of the most consumed products in the world. Due to consumers' growing tendency to use healthy and low‐fat foods, reducing oil content in fried foods has become a necessity. Several studies have shown that higher initial water content results in increased oil uptake during frying. Therefore, pretreatments that reduce water content of the product could lower oil uptake in the final product. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of a three‐stage hybrid ultrasound–osmotic–frying process on production of low‐fat fried potato strips.

RESULTS

Results showed that, compared to control samples, osmotic pretreated samples using saline solutions at concentrations of 2% and 4% decreased oil uptake by 29.5% and 32.7%, respectively. Ultrasound (28 and 40 kHz) also showed a significant synergistic effect on reducing oil uptake in the samples pretreated with both ultrasound and osmotic dehydration so that different samples pretreated with both ultrasound and osmotic dehydration decreased oil uptake from approximately 40% to more than 50%, compared to untreated control samples.

CONCLUSION

Owing to production of low‐fat fried potato strips, utilising osmotic dehydration pretreatment was desirable before the frying process. Regarding low mass transfer rate during osmotic treatment, ultrasound was applied to enhance mass transfer rate. The use of ultrasound pretreatment in the frying process can yield promising results in reducing oil uptake. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Supercritical fluid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry: A high‐efficiency detection technique to quantify Taxane drugs in whole‐blood samples
Authors: Jin Chan , Guan Jibin , Zhang Dong , Li Bing , Liu Hongzhuo , He Zhonggui
Published: August 2017

We present a technique to rapid determine taxane in blood samples by supercritical fluid chromatography together with mass spectrometry. The aim of this study was to develop a supercritical fluid chromatography with mass spectrometry method for the analysis of paclitaxel, cabazitaxel, and docetaxel in whole‐blood samples of rats. Liquid‐dry matrix spot extraction was selected in sample preparation procedure. Supercritical fluid chromatography separation of paclitaxel, cabazitaxel, docetaxel, and glyburide (internal standard) was accomplished within 3 min by using the gradient mobile phase consisted of methanol as the compensation solvent and carbon dioxide at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The method was validated regarding specificity, the lower limit of quantification, repeatability, and reproducibility of quantification, extraction recovery, and matrix effects. The lower limit of quantification was found to be 10 ng/mL since it exhibited acceptable precision and accuracy at the corresponding level. All interday accuracies and precisions were within the accepted criteria of ±15% of the nominal value and within ±20% at the lower limit of quantification, implying that the method was reliable and reproducible. In conclusion, this method is a promising tool to support and improve preclinical or clinical pharmacokinetic studies with the taxanes anticancer drugs.
Mixed and passive filtering for a class of singular systems with interval time‐varying delays
Authors: Liu Guobao , Ma Qian , Lu Junwei , Li Yongmin , Xu Shengyuan
Published: August 2017

This paper deals with the problem of mixed
and passive filtering for a class of singular systems with interval time‐varying delays. First, by combining the Wirtinger‐based integral inequality with the reciprocally convex inequality, sufficient delay‐range‐dependent conditions are obtained in terms of strict linear matrix inequalities to ensure that the considered singular system is admissible with a mixed
and passivity performance level. Then, based on a matrix transformation technique and employing several free scalars, more flexible strict linear matrix inequality–based conditions are proposed to get the desired filter. Finally, 2 numerical examples are given to show less conservatism and the effectiveness of the results.
Dichroic nanocomposites based on polymers and metallic particles: from biology to materials science
Authors: Caseri Walter R
Published: August 2017

Dichroic nanocomposites change their colors when they are viewed through a turning polarizer. In the case of polymer matrices containing inorganic nanoparticles, this color effect originates in anisotropic structures of inorganic moieties, such as uniaxially oriented linear assemblies of spherical nanoparticles or parallel oriented nanorods. The orientation of the particles or particle assemblies, respectively, is induced by the polymer matrix, either through oriented elongated hollow spaces or drawing. Matrices based on biopolymers (e.g. cellulose, polypeptides, chitin) as well as synthetic polymers (e.g. polyethylene, poly(vinyl alcohol)) have been employed. The dichroic colors have been generated so far mainly by silver or gold particles (including nanorods), but also other metals and occasionally also semiconductors (metalloids). Notably, dichroism is also disclosed in optical absorption spectra recorded with polarized light. Dichroism in biopolymer‐based objects with incorporated nanoparticles has been exploited for the cognition of biological fine structures, while dichroic films with technical polymers as matrices have been considered as optical switches in bicolored liquid crystal displays and authenticity cachets for documents, banknotes and packaging films. In this context, micropatterning of dichroic nanocomposites, which has been achieved by local heating procedures of materials composed of metal nanorods, is also of interest. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Secondary structure and dynamics study of the intrinsically disordered silica‐mineralizing peptide P5S3 during silicic acid condensation and silica decondensation
Authors: Zerfaß Christian , Buchko Garry W. , Shaw Wendy J. , Hobe Stephan , Paulsen Harald
Published: August 2017

The silica forming repeat R5 of sil1 from Cylindrotheca fusiformis was the blueprint for the design of P5S3, a 50‐residue peptide which can be produced in large amounts by recombinant bacterial expression. It contains 5 protein kinase A target sites and is highly cationic due to 10 lysine and 10 arginine residues. In the presence of supersaturated orthosilicic acid P5S3 enhances silica‐formation whereas it retards the dissolution of amorphous silica (SiO2) at globally undersaturated concentrations. The secondary structure of P5S3 during these 2 processes was studied by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, complemented by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy of the peptide in the absence of silicate. The NMR studies of dual‐labeled (13C, 15N) P5S3 revealed a disordered structure at pH 2.8 and 4.5. Within the pH range of 4.5‐9.5 in the absence of silicic acid, the CD data showed a disordered structure with the suggestion of some polyproline II character. Upon silicic acid polymerization and during dissolution of preformed silica, the CD spectrum of P5S3 indicated partial transition into an α‐helical conformation which was transient during silica‐dissolution. The secondary structural changes observed for P5S3 correlate with the presence of oligomeric/polymeric silicic acid, presumably due to P5S3‐silica interactions. These P5S3‐silica interactions appear, at least in part, ionic in nature since negatively charged dodecylsulfate caused similar perturbations to the P5S3 CD spectrum as observed with silica, while uncharged ß‐d‐dodecyl maltoside did not affect the CD spectrum of P5S3. Thus, with an associated increase in α‐helical character, P5S3 influences both the condensation of silicic acid into silica and its decondensation back to silicic acid.
Hierarchical clustering for histogram data
Authors: Billard L. , Kim Jaejik
Published: August 2017

Clustering methods for classical data are well established, though the associated algorithms primarily focus on partitioning methods and agglomerative hierarchical methods. With the advent of massively large data sets, too large to be analyzed by traditional techniques, new paradigms are needed. Symbolic data methods form one solution to this problem. While symbolic data can be important and arise naturally in their own right, they are particularly relevant when faced with data that emerged from aggregation of (larger) data sets. One format is when the data are histogram‐valued in ℝp, instead of points in ℝp as in classical data. This paper looks at the problem of constructing hierarchies using a divisive polythetic algorithm based on dissimilarity measures derived for histogram observations. WIREs Comput Stat 2017, 9:e1405. doi: 10.1002/wics.1405

This article is categorized under:

Statistical Learning and Exploratory Methods of the Data Sciences > Clustering and Classification
Performing statistical population reconstruction using Program PopRecon 2.0
Authors: Clawson Michael V. , Skalski John R. , Lady James M. , Hagen Christian A. , Millspaugh Joshua J. , Budeau David , Severson John P.
Published: August 2017

Statistical population reconstruction develops an integrated likelihood model that incorporates age‐at‐harvest composition, harvest totals, hunter effort, and auxiliary data on survival, harvest, or abundance to model demographics of harvested populations. Each statistical population reconstruction model is handcrafted to account for varying levels of available demographic data, hunting regulations, sampling of the harvest process, and biology of the harvested species. PopRecon 2.0 is a software program that facilitates the creation and analysis of these unique demographic models and capable of analyzing either full or pooled age‐at‐harvest data using either fixed or random effects on the annual survival and harvest processes. The program produces annual estimates of abundance, harvest probabilities, natural survival, and recruitment using a user‐friendly, interactive computing environment and AD Model Builder analytical software. Program PopRecon 2.0 is demonstrated using 23 years (1993–2015) of harvest data on greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) from Oregon, USA. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
PRKAG2 mutations presenting in infancy
Authors: Torok Rachel D. , Austin Stephanie L. , Phornphutkul Chanika , Rotondo Kathleen M. , Bali Deeksha , Tatum Gregory H. , Wechsler Stephanie B. , Buckley Anne F. , Kishnani Priya S.
Published: August 2017

PRKAG2 encodes the γ2 subunit of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is an important regulator of cardiac metabolism. Mutations in PRKAG2 cause a cardiac syndrome comprising ventricular hypertrophy, pre‐excitation, and progressive conduction‐system disease, which is typically not diagnosed until adolescence or young adulthood. However, significant variability exists in the presentation and outcomes of patients with PRKAG2 mutations, with presentation in infancy being underrecognized. The diagnosis of PRKAG2 can be challenging in infants, and we describe our experience with three patients who were initially suspected to have Pompe disease yet ultimately diagnosed with mutations in PRKAG2. A disease‐causing PRKAG2 mutation was identified in each case, with a novel missense mutation described in one patient. We highlight the potential for patients with PRKAG2 mutations to mimic Pompe disease in infancy and the need for confirmatory testing when diagnosing Pompe disease.
Dispute Settlement Reports 2015
Authors: World Trade Organization
Published: August 2017

The Dispute Settlement Reports of the World Trade Organization (WTO) include Panel and Appellate Body reports, as well as arbitration awards, in disputes concerning the rights and obligations of WTO members under the provisions of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization. These are the WTO authorized and paginated reports in English. They are an essential addition to the library of all practicing and academic trade lawyers, and needed by students worldwide taking courses in international economic or trade law. DSR 2015: Volume 9 reports on China - Measures Imposing Anti-Dumping Duties on High-Performance Stainless Steel Seamless Tubes ('HP-SSST') from Japan (WT/DS454) and China - Measures Imposing Anti-Dumping Duties on High-Performance Stainless Steel Seamless Tubes ('HP-SSST') from the European Union (WT/DS460).
Digital Images: Content and Compositionality
Authors: ISAAC ALISTAIR M. C.
Published: August 2017

Typical accounts of imagistic content have focused on the apparent analog character or continuous variability of images. In contrast, I consider the distinctive features of digital images, those composed of finite sets of discrete pixels. A rich source of evidence on digital imagistic content is found in the content-preserving algorithms that resize and reproduce digital images on computer screens and printers. I argue that these algorithms reveal a distinctive structural feature: digital images are always compositional (their parts contribute systematically to overall content), but never inverse compositional (atomic parts may be replaced nonsynonymously without changing content). This indicates a sharp contrast with linguistic representations, which may or may not be compositional, and may or may not be inverse compositional. I argue this result sheds new light on the claim that imagistic content is inherently perspectival.
Revision of the Posted Workers Directive: A Europeanisation Perspective
Authors: ZAHN Rebecca
Published: August 2017

This article places the current legal framework governing posted work within the debate on ‘Europeanisation’ in order to assess to what extent the Posted Workers Directive may be seen as a successful tool to ‘Europeanise’ national labour law systems as assessed against its dual objectives of promoting the transnational provision of services while also guaranteeing respect for the rights of workers. In doing so, the article contextualises and analyses the Posted Workers Directive which allows for the identification of remaining gaps in protection. The article concludes with an assessment of the European Commission’s most recent proposal to amend the Directive.
Self-perceived Difficulties in Everyday Function Precede Cognitive Decline among Older Adults in the ACTIVE Study
Authors: Tomaszewski Farias Sarah , Giovannetti Tania , Payne Brennan R. , Marsiske Michael , Rebok George W. , Schaie K. Warner , Thomas Kelsey R. , Willis Sherry L. , Dzierzewski Joseph M. , Unverzagt Frederick , Gross Alden L.
Published: August 2017

Objectives: Careful characterization of how functional decline co-evolves with cognitive decline in older adults has yet to be well described. Most models of neurodegenerative disease postulate that cognitive decline predates and potentially leads to declines in everyday functional abilities; however, there is mounting evidence that subtle decline in instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) may be detectable in older individuals who are still cognitively normal. Methods: The present study examines how the relationship between change in cognition and change in IADLs are best characterized among older adults who participated in the ACTIVE trial. Neuropsychological and IADL data were analyzed for 2802 older adults who were cognitively normal at study baseline and followed for up to 10 years. Results: Findings demonstrate that subtle, self-perceived difficulties in performing IADLs preceded and predicted subsequent declines on cognitive tests of memory, reasoning, and speed of processing. Conclusions: Findings are consistent with a growing body of literature suggesting that subjective changes in everyday abilities can be associated with more precipitous decline on objective cognitive measures and the development of mild cognitive impairment and dementia. (JINS, 2018, 24, 104–112)
Timing of Smarcb1 and Nf2 inactivation determines schwannoma versus rhabdoid tumor development
Authors: Vitte Jeremie , Gao Fuying , Coppola Giovanni , Judkins Alexander R. , Giovannini Marco
Published: August 2017

Germline mutations of the SMARCB1 gene predispose to two distinct tumor syndromes: rhabdoid tumor predisposition syndrome, with malignant pediatric tumors mostly developing in brain and kidney, and familial schwannomatosis, with adulthood benign tumors involving cranial and peripheral nerves. The mechanisms by which SMARCB1 germline mutations predispose to rhabdoid tumors versus schwannomas are still unknown. Here, to understand the origin of these two types of SMARCB1-associated tumors, we generated different tissue- and developmental stage-specific conditional knockout mice carrying Smarcb1 and/or Nf2 deletion. Smarcb1 loss in early neural crest was necessary to initiate tumorigenesis in the cranial nerves and meninges with typical histological features and molecular profiles of human rhabdoid tumors. By inducing Smarcb1 loss at later developmental stage in the Schwann cell lineage, in addition to biallelic Nf2 gene inactivation, we generated the first mouse model developing schwannomas with the same underlying gene mutations found in schwannomatosis patients.
Differential alternative splicing coupled to nonsense-mediated decay of mRNA ensures dietary restriction-induced longevity
Authors: Tabrez Syed Shamsh , Sharma Ravi Datta , Jain Vaibhav , Siddiqui Atif Ahmed , Mukhopadhyay Arnab
Published: August 2017

Alternative splicing (AS) coupled to nonsense-mediated decay (AS-NMD) is a conserved mechanism for post-transcriptional gene regulation. Here we show that, during dietary restriction (DR), AS is enhanced in Caenorhabditis elegans and mice. A splicing mediator hrpu-1 regulates a significant part of these AS events in C. elegans; knocking it down suppresses DR-mediated longevity. Concurrently, due to increased AS, NMD pathway genes are upregulated and knocking down UPF1 homologue smg-2 suppresses DR lifespan. Knockdown of NMD during DR significantly increases the inclusion of PTC-containing introns and the lengths of the 3′UTRs. Finally, we demonstrate that PHA-4/FOXA transcriptionally regulates the AS-NMD genes. Our study suggests that DR uses AS to amplify the proteome, supporting physiological remodelling required for enhanced longevity. This increases the dependence on NMD, but also helps fine-tune the expression of metabolic and splicing mediators. AS-NMD may thus provide an energetically favourable level of dynamic gene expression control during dietary restriction.
Heterogenous oceanic redox conditions through the Ediacaran-Cambrian boundary limited the metazoan zonation
Authors: Zhang Junpeng , Fan Tailiang , Zhang Yuandong , Lash Gary G. , Li Yifan , Wu Yue
Published: August 2017

Recent studies have enhanced our understanding of the linkage of oxygenation and metazoan evolution in Early Cambrian time. However, little of this work has addressed the apparent lag of animal diversification and atmospheric oxygenation during this critical period of Earth history. This study utilizes the geochemical proxy and N isotope record of the Ediacaran–Cambrian boundary preserved in intra-shelf basin, slope, and slope basin deposits of the Yangtze Sea to assess the ocean redox state during the Early Cambrian metazoan radiation. Though ferruginous conditions appear to have prevailed through the water column during this time, episodes of local bottom-water anoxia extending into the photic-zone impacted the slope belt of the basin. Heterogenous oceanic redox conditions are expressed by trace element concentrations and Fe speciation, and spatial variation of N isotopes. We propose that the coupling of ocean chemistry and Early Cambrian animal diversification was not a simple cause-and-effect relationship, but rather a complex interaction. Specifically, it is likely that animal diversification expanded not only temporally but also spatially from the shallow shelf to deep-water environments in tandem with progressive oxygenation of the extensive continental margin.
CD24 induces changes to the surface receptors of B cell microvesicles with variable effects on their RNA and protein cargo
Authors: Ayre D. Craig , Chute Ian C. , Joy Andrew P. , Barnett David A. , Hogan Andrew M. , Grüll Marc P. , Peña-Castillo Lourdes , Lang Andrew S. , Lewis Stephen M. , Christian Sherri L.
Published: August 2017

The CD24 cell surface receptor promotes apoptosis in developing B cells, and we recently found that it induces B cells to release plasma membrane-derived, CD24-bearing microvesicles (MVs). Here we have performed a systematic characterization of B cell MVs released from WEHI-231 B lymphoma cells in response to CD24 stimulation. We found that B cells constitutively release MVs of approximately 120 nm, and that CD24 induces an increase in phosphatidylserine-positive MV release. RNA cargo is predominantly comprised of 5S rRNA, regardless of stimulation; however, CD24 causes a decrease in the incorporation of protein coding transcripts. The MV proteome is enriched with mitochondrial and metabolism-related proteins after CD24 stimulation; however, these changes were variable and could not be fully validated by Western blotting. CD24-bearing MVs carry Siglec-2, CD63, IgM, and, unexpectedly, Ter119, but not Siglec-G or MHC-II despite their presence on the cell surface. CD24 stimulation also induces changes in CD63 and IgM expression on MVs that is not mirrored by the changes in cell surface expression. Overall, the composition of these MVs suggests that they may be involved in releasing mitochondrial components in response to pro-apoptotic stress with changes to the surface receptors potentially altering the cell type(s) that interact with the MVs.
Dual-delivery of FGF-2/CTGF from Silk Fibroin/PLCL-PEO Coaxial Fibers Enhances MSC Proliferation and Fibrogenesis
Authors: Xu Ruodan , Zhao Huiling , Muhammad Hanif , Dong Mingdong , Besenbacher Flemming , Chen Menglin
Published: August 2017

The success of mesenchymal stem cell transplantation is highly dependent on their survival and controlled fate regulation. This study demonstrates that dual-delivery of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) from a core-shell fiber of Silk Fibroin/poly(L-lactic acid-co-ε-caprolactone)-polyethylene oxide (SF/PLCL-PEO) enhanced fibrogenic lineage differentiation of MSCs. The core-shell structure was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fluorescence microscopy and attenuated total reflection (ATR) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. A sequential release of FGF-2 and CTGF was successfully achieved in this manner. FGF-2 plays an important role in stem cell proliferation and, meanwhile when accompanied with CTGF, has a slightly additive effect on fibrogenic differentiation of MSCs, whereas CTGF promotes fibrogenesis and alleviates osteogenesis, chondrogenesis and adipogenesis.
Single-step generation of metal-plasma polymer multicore@shell nanoparticles from the gas phase
Authors: Solař Pavel , Polonskyi Oleksandr , Olbricht Ansgar , Hinz Alexander , Shelemin Artem , Kylián Ondřej , Choukourov Andrei , Faupel Franz , Biederman Hynek
Published: August 2017

Nanoparticles composed of multiple silver cores and a plasma polymer shell (multicore@shell) were prepared in a single step with a gas aggregation cluster source operating with Ar/hexamethyldisiloxane mixtures and optionally oxygen. The size distribution of the metal inclusions as well as the chemical composition and the thickness of the shells were found to be controlled by the composition of the working gas mixture. Shell matrices ranging from organosilicon plasma polymer to nearly stoichiometric SiO2 were obtained. The method allows facile fabrication of multicore@shell nanoparticles with tailored functional properties, as demonstrated here with the optical response.
Nitrogen Starvation Impacts the Photosynthetic Performance of Porphyridium cruentum as Revealed by Chlorophyll a Fluorescence
Authors: Zhao Long-Sheng , Li Kang , Wang Qian-Min , Song Xiao-Yan , Su Hai-Nan , Xie Bin-Bin , Zhang Xi-Ying , Huang Feng , Chen Xiu-Lan , Zhou Bai-Cheng , Zhang Yu-Zhong
Published: August 2017

Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrients needed for plants and algae to survive, and the photosynthetic ability of algae is related to nitrogen abundance. Red algae are unique photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms in the evolution of algae, as they contain phycobilisomes (PBSs) on their thylakoid membranes. In this report, the in vivo chlorophyll (Chl) a fluorescence kinetics of nitrogen-starved Porphyridium cruentum were analyzed to determine the effects of nitrogen deficiency on photosynthetic performance using a multi-color pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) chlorophyll fluorometer. Due to nitrogen starvation, the photochemical efficiency of PSII and the activity of PSII reaction centers (RCs) decreased, and photoinhibition of PSII occurred. The water-splitting system on the donor side of PSII was seriously impacted by nitrogen deficiency, leading to the inactivation of the oxygen-evolving complex (OEC) and decreased light energy conversion efficiency. In nitrogen-starved cells, a higher proportion of energy was used for photochemical reactions, and thermal dissipation was reduced, as shown by qP and qN. The ability of nitrogen-starved cells to tolerate and resist high photon flux densities was weakened. Our results showed that the photosynthetic performance of P. cruentum was severely impacted by nitrogen deficiency.
Children, chimpanzees, and bonobos adjust the visibility of their actions for cooperators and competitors
Authors: Grueneisen Sebastian , Duguid Shona , Saur Heiko , Tomasello Michael
Published: August 2017

Chimpanzees and bonobos are highly capable of tracking other’s mental states. It has been proposed, however, that in contrast to humans, chimpanzees are only able to do this in competitive interactions but this has rarely been directly tested. Here, pairs of chimpanzees or bonobos (Study 1) and 4-year-old children (Study 2) were presented with two almost identical tasks differing only regarding the social context. In the cooperation condition, players’ interests were matched: they had to make corresponding choices to be mutually rewarded. To facilitate coordination, subjects should thus make their actions visible to their partner whose view was partially occluded. In the competition condition, players’ interests were directly opposed: the partner tried to match the subject’s choice but subjects were only rewarded if they chose differently, so that they benefited from hiding their actions. The apes successfully adapted their decisions to the social context and their performance was markedly better in the cooperation condition. Children also distinguished between the two contexts, but somewhat surprisingly, performed better in the competitive condition. These findings demonstrate experimentally that chimpanzees and bonobos can take into account what others can see in cooperative interactions. Their social-cognitive skills are thus more flexible than previously assumed.