bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explanations for less small fibre neuropathy in South Asian versus European subjects with type 2 diabetes in the UK
Authors: Fadavi Hassan , Tavakoli Mitra , Foden Philip , Ferdousi Maryam , Petropoulos Ioannis N. , Jeziorska Maria , Chaturvedi Nishi , Boulton Andrew J.M. , Malik Rayaz A. , Abbott Caroline A.
Published: July 2018

Background

Low foot ulcer risk in South Asian, compared with European, people with type 2 diabetes in the UK has been attributed to their lower levels of neuropathy. We have undertaken a detailed study of corneal nerve morphology and neuropathy risk factors, to establish the basis of preserved small nerve fibre function in South Asians versus Europeans.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional, population‐based study, age‐ and sex‐matched South Asians (n = 77) and Europeans (n = 78) with type 2 diabetes underwent neuropathy assessment using corneal confocal microscopy, symptoms, signs, quantitative sensory testing, electrophysiology and autonomic function testing. Multivariable linear regression analyses determined factors accounting for ethnic differences in small fibre damage.

Results

Corneal nerve fibre length (22.0 ± 7.9 vs. 19.3 ± 6.3 mm/mm2; P = 0.037), corneal nerve branch density (geometric mean (range): 60.0 (4.7‐246.2) vs. 46.0 (3.1‐129.2) no./mm2; P = 0.021) and heart rate variability (geometric mean (range): 7.9 (1.4‐27.7) vs. 6.5 (1.5‐22.0); P = 0.044), were significantly higher in South Asians vs. Europeans. All other neuropathy measures did not differ, except for better sural nerve amplitude in South Asians (geometric mean (range): 10.0 (1.3‐43.0) vs. 7.2 (1.0‐30.0); P = 0.006). Variables with the greatest impact on attenuating the P value for age‐ and HbA1C‐adjusted ethnic difference in corneal nerve fibre length (P = 0.032) were pack‐years smoked (P = 0.13), BMI (P = 0.062) and triglyceride levels (P = 0.062).

Conclusions

South Asians have better preserved small nerve fibre integrity than equivalent Europeans; furthermore, classic, modifiable risk factors for coronary heart disease are the main contributors to these ethnic differences. We suggest that improved autonomic neurogenic control of cutaneous blood flow in Asians may contribute to their protection against foot ulcers.
Investigation of Bridgehead Effects on Reduction Potential in Alkyl and Aryl Azadithiolate‐Bridged (µ‐SCH2XCH2S) [Fe(CO)3]2 Synthetic Analogues of [FeFe]‐H2ase Active Site
Authors: Rana Atanu , Kumar Das Pradip , Mondal Biswajit , Dey Subal , Crouthers Danielle , Dey Abhishek
Published: July 2018

Factors affecting the FeIFeI/FeIFe0 reduction potentials (E0) in a series of propane and azadithiolate bridged (µ‐SRS)[Fe(CO)3]2 synthetic model complexes of diiron hydrogenases are investigated. The E0 is found to vary from 60 to 390 mV depending on the nature of the substituent (Alkyl or Aryl) on the nitrogen atom at the bridgehead of the azadithiolate. The E0 is found to shift to more negative values as the average C‐O stretching vibrations ν(CO)avg of the CO ligands decreases, i.e., with increasing backbonding from the iron centers. This trend is accompanied by a linear dependence of the E0 on the σ Hammett parameter of the para substituents in a series of Arylamine bridged complexes and on the gas phase proton affinities (PA) of a series of Alkylamine bridged complexes. The unexpected dependence of E0 on the substituents on the bridgehead nitrogen is addressed by computational chemistry. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations accurately reproduce the geometric structures and the correlations between E0, ν(CO)avg, σ and PA observed in the experimental data. It is concluded that while for Alkyl‐amine bridged complexes an interaction between the nitrogen lone pair with C–S σ* affects ca. 60 mV shift in the E0, the inductive and mesomeric effects of the substituents in the Aryl ring are responsible for ca. 300 mV shift in the E0 of the Aryl‐amine bridged complexes.
Dual Emissions and Thermochromic Luminescence Behavior of Chloroplumbate Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Crystals
Authors: Zhou Qi‐Min , Deng Zheng‐Rong , Yu Shan‐Shan , Wang Lifeng , Duan Hai‐Bao , Zou Yang , Ren Xiao‐Ming
Published: July 2018

Two hybrids, [BMIP][Pb2Cl6] (1) and [BMIP][Pb1.5Cl5]·H2O (2) {BMIP2+ = 1,3‐bis(1‐methylimidazolium)propane}, are achieved by mutual diffusion of inorganic and organic components in anhydrous DMF and DMF with a trace amount of water (the trace amount of water originates from MnCl2·4H2O), respectively. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data are collected for 1 in 300–100 K and 2 in 370–100 K, revealing that 1 and 2 crystallize in monoclinic space group P21/c and triclinic space group P1, respectively. Crystal 1 contains [Pb4Cl12]∞ twin chains, rarely reported, constructed from edge‐sharing PbCl6 octahedra, and dications surround the [Pb4Cl12]∞ twin chains. Crystal 2 includes [Pb3Cl10]∞ single chains, comprised of distorted PbCl6 octahedra linked together in face‐ and edge‐sharing manners, with dications occupying the space among the [Pb3Cl10]∞ chains. The solid‐state UV/Visible absorption spectra at ambient temperature, and the excitation and emission spectra in 10–300 K for 1 and 2 are investigated, showing dual emissions and thermochromism, originating from the distinct response of the two emission bands to temperature. In particular, the plots of the intensity ratio between the two emission bands versus the temperature display a linear relationship in 10–85 K and 150–300 K for 2, respectively, indicating its potential application in luminescent thermometers, a phenomenon which has scarcely been reported in lead–halide‐based hybrids.
Halogen Bonding in Ring‐Substituted Group 10 POCOP Iodido Complexes with Iodine and Its Possible Role in Oxidative Addition
Authors: Joksch Markus , Agarwala Hemlata , Spannenberg Anke , Beweries Torsten
Published: July 2018

Halogen bonding (XB) of an isostructural series of complexes of the type [3,5‐tBu(tBuPOCOPtBu)MI] [3,5‐tBu2(tBuPOCOPtBu) = κ3‐C6H‐3,5‐(tBu)2‐2,6‐(OPtBu2)2; M = Ni, Pd, Pt] with iodine as XB donor was studied in the solid state. Co‐crystallization experiments afforded single crystals for all three XB systems [3,5‐tBu(tBuPOCOPtBu)NiI] (1‐I2), [3,5‐tBu(tBuPOCOPtBu)PdI] (2‐I2), and [3,5‐tBu(tBuPOCOPtBu)PtI] (3‐I2). Whereas in the case of1‐I2, two molecules of I2bind to the iodide ligand, complexes2‐I2and3‐I2are isostructural 1:1 adducts with almost orthogonal binding of I2to the metal iodido acceptor. All adducts form zig‐zag chain structures where the pincer complexes act as bifunctional XB acceptors, forming XB interactions between metal iodide ligand and I2as well as between the aryl backbone of the pincer ligand and the I2XB donor. DFT studies were performed to analyze the electronic structure of the XB adducts. Halogen bonded adducts and related products of I2coordination were examined as formal intermediates in oxidative addition of I2to a metal(II) center. Computational data suggest that the herein described complexes do not play a role in this context.
Complementary Strategy for Regioselective Synthesis of Diverse β‐Hydroxysulfones from Thiosulfonates
Authors: Son Soobin , Shyam Pranab K. , Park Hyowon , Jeong Ilgyo , Jang Hye‐Young
Published: July 2018

The regioselective synthesis of variously substituted β‐hydroxysulfones from thiosulfonates was developed. The reactions of thiosulfonates and alkenes via a peroxy radical intermediate provided 2° and 3° β‐hydroxysulfones in good yields. The presence of epoxides instead of alkenes changed the reaction mechanism to nucleophilic addition involving sulfinate anions to afford 1° and 2° β‐hydroxysulfones. By using both protocols, the regiochemical outcome of the β‐hydroxysulfones synthesized from thiosulfonates was diversified.
Protecting‐Group‐Free Synthesis of 3‐Amino‐3‐α‐prenyl‐oxindoles through the Direct Prenylation of Isatin‐Derived Imines
Authors: Li De‐Feng , Jin Hai‐Shan , Zhang Jing‐Ru , Jiang Yi‐Xuan , Zhao Li‐Ming
Published: July 2018

A zinc‐mediated α‐selective prenylation of isatin‐derived imine using prenyl bromide as the prenyl source in a sealed tube has been developed. The protocol enables an efficient access to various 3‐amino‐3‐α‐prenyl‐oxindoles from cheap and readily available chemicals in good to excellent yields. The obtained prenylated adduct can be further manipulated to other more complicated derivatives through cyclization or oxidation, which demonstrated the synthetic usefulness of this methodology. Additionally, we demonstrated that this zinc‐mediated methodology is also applicable to cinnamylation and geranylation.
Copper‐Catalyzed Regioselective Nitration and Azidation of 1‐Naphthylamine Derivatives via Remote C–H Activation
Authors: Dou Yandong , Yin Biao , Zhang Pengfei , Zhu Qing
Published: July 2018

A simple and facile protocols for copper‐catalyzed regionselective C4 nitration and azidation of 1‐naphthylamines via remote C–H activation that use of pyridyl amide fragment as the removable directing group have been firstly developed. These reactions proceed under mild conditions without any additives, tolerate a wide variety of functional groups, and afford a wide range of products in good to excellent yields. Control experiments suggest that those C–H activation reactions are likely to proceed through a single‐electron‐transfer (SET) process.
Detection of FGFR2 : FAM76A Fusion Gene in Circulating Tumor RNA Based on Catalytic Signal Amplification of Graphene Oxide‐loaded Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Gorgannezhad Lena , Umer Muhammad , Kamal Masud Mostafa , Hossain Md. Shahriar A. , Tanaka S. , Yamauchi Y. , Salomon Carlos , Kline Richard , Nguyen Nam‐Trung , Shiddiky Muhammad J. A.
Published: July 2018

Circulating tumor nucleic acids (ctNAs) are promising biomarkers for minimally invasive cancer assessment. The FGFR2 : FAM76A fusion gene is one of the highly promising ovarian cancer biomarkers detectable in ctNAs. Herein, we introduce a new amplification‐free electrochemical assay for the detection of FGFR2 : FAM76A fusion gene in ctNAs extracted from ovarian cancer patients. The assay relies on the electrocatalytic activity of a new class of superparamagnetic graphene‐loaded iron oxide nanoparticles (GO‐NPFe2O3). After isolation and purification, the target RNA was directly adsorbed onto the GO‐NPFe2O3 surface through graphene‐RNA affinity interaction. The electrocatalytic signal was achieved by the reduction of surface‐attached ruthenium hexaammine(III) chloride which was further amplified by using the ferricyanide redox system. Our assay depicted an excellent detection sensitivity down to 1.0 fM, high specificity and excellent reproducibility (% RSD=<5 %, for n=3). The analytical performance of our method was validated with standard qRT‐PCR analysis. We believe that this newly developed assay would be practically applicable in clinical research.
Electrochemical Approach on Mechanism of an Oral Progestin in Aqueous Media and its Fully Validated Detection via a Carbon‐Metal Based Composite Sensor
Authors: Bakirhan Nurgul K. , Celik Melek Sirin Baymak , Celik Hayati , Uslu Bengi , Ozkan Sibel A.
Published: July 2018

Dienogest is a synthetic oral progestogen with unique pharmacological properties that is used orally in the treatment of endometrosis. The first time, the detailed electrochemical mechanism of dienogest is investigated in different aqueous mediums. Different progestins were used to understand completely oxidation mechanism. The electrochemical oxidation of dienogest was investigated systematically by cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, and square wave voltammetry. A simple adsorptive stripping square wave voltammetry method has been developed for the fully validated direct determination of dienogest in Visanne Tablets for the first time. Nano based sensor was fabricated with reduced graphene oxide, gold and carboxylic acid functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotube materials, and were used on glassy carbon electrode that performed sensitive and validated analysis of dienogest by adsorptive stripping square wave voltammetry. Validation parameters were investigated in detail. The results yielded good precision, accuracy and reproducibility. Calibration range was found as 2.00×10−7 M to 6.00×10−6 M, with LOD and LOQ values as 1.88×10−8 M and 6.27×10−8 M, respectively. In the future, the developed sensor can be applied in different media such as environment, soil and water for the detection of some progestins or hormones by researchers.
Reproductive tolerance in male primates: Old paradigms and new evidence
Authors: Port Markus , Schülke Oliver , Ostner Julia
Published: July 2018

Within social groups of primates, males commonly compete over reproduction, but they may also rely on cooperation with other males. Theory suggests that it may be adaptive for male primates to tolerate some reproduction by other males if reproductive tolerance fosters cooperation, particularly that dominant males yield so‐called reproductive concessions to subordinates to entice their cooperation. We review four recent studies that claimed to have found evidence for reproductive concessions or similar forms of reproductive tolerance. However, upon critical reevaluation of their results, no study provides conclusive support for reproductive concessions as predicted by theoretical models. Yet two studies demonstrated a form of reproductive tolerance that cannot be explained by any of the existing models, and that seems to have evolved only in multi‐male, multi‐female societies with diverse strategic options for males. Our article provides guidance how to study this form of reproductive tolerance in the absence of a unifying model.
The evaluation of sewage sludge application as a fertilizer for broad bean (Faba sativa Bernh.) crops
Authors: Eid Ebrahem M. , Alrumman Sulaiman A. , El‐Bebany Ahmed F. , Fawy Khaled F. , Taher Mostafa A. , Hesham Abd El‐Latif , El‐Shaboury Gamal A. , Ahmed Mohamed T.
Published: July 2018

Although several studies have examined the effect of sewage sludge (SS) application on various legume crops, there is insufficient information confirming the agronomic and environmental sustainability of SS usage in a broad bean cultivation systems. Therefore, a greenhouse experiment was completed to assess the soil heavy metal (HM) pools, growth, yield, and HM uptake of Faba sativa Bernh. (broad bean) grown in the agricultural soils supplemented with SS in comparison to control soils (nonamended). The experimental design was completely randomized with six replicates. The amendment with SS significantly elevated the organic matter (OM) content, soil salinity and Al, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn concentrations, although the soil pH decreased. As allowed by the Council of European Communities, the concentrations of the determined HMs were less than the accepted limit for SS used in agriculture. Generally, SS applications of up to 120 t/ha produced a considerable increase in the growth measurements and biomass of broad bean. However, the broad bean biomass, shoot height, number of branches, root length, absolute growth rate, number of leaves, and leaf area declined in reaction to a rate of 150 t/ha. The HM concentrations in various tissues of broad bean plants exposed to SS were significantly higher than those in the untreated plants. However, most HM concentrations were inside the permissible limits and did not overcome the maximum levels of phytotoxic. The broad bean was recognized by a bioaccumulation factor less than 1.0 for the majority of the HMs. The translocation factors for the determined HMs (excluding for Al, Co, and Pb in stems and leaves) were less than 1.0. Therefore, the SS utilized in this study could be used as a fertilizer for broad bean crops and could as well act as a replacement manner for SS elimination.
Domestic low‐fat “frying” alternatives: Impact on potatoes composition
Authors: Santos Carla S. P. , Cunha Sara C. , Casal Susana
Published: July 2018

Two low‐fat “frying” alternatives to deep‐frying were tested using two domestic equipment (microwave grill and convective oven), with fresh potatoes and four different frying oils (sunflower, soybean, canola, and olive oil). Potatoes composition was compared concerning nutrients, bioactivity, and fat oxidation. Fat reduction achieved 80% on both methods, directly associated with a decrease in oil natural bioactive components (vitamin E, fatty acids) and degraded lipids (oxidized triglycerides, polymers, aldehydes, etc.). Both microwave grill and oven cooking preserved potatoes and oil health attributes better than deep‐frying, particularly ascorbic acid, tocopherols, and total phenolics. Additionally, a significantly lower formation of acrylamide (−55% microwave grill and −76% oven) and oxidized lipids (oxidized triglycerides and unsaturated aldehydes) was observed, with microwave receiving higher sensory scores than the convective oven. This work sustains the possibility of using domestic equipment (microwave grill and oven) as healthier “frying” alternatives to deep‐frying.
Tailored NbO2 Modified Pt/Graphene as Highly Stable Electrocatalyst Towards Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Sun J. , Sun W. , Du L. , Du C. , Gao Y. , Yin G.
Published: July 2018

The stability issues of electrocatalysts caused by the severe corrosion of support materials (commonly carbon materials) were regarded as the main reasons accounting for the failure of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell during operation. In this paper, a simple one‐pot method was developed to synthesize NbO2‐graphene composite support material, which Pt nanoparticles were then facilely deposited to compose the triple phase boundary (TPB) to provide excellent structure for performance enhancement. The morphology, structure and composition were conducted by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectra (XPS). Meanwhile the electrochemical behavior was estimated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), and accelerated degradation test (ADT). Such Pt‐NbO2‐graphene catalyst exhibits the enhancement of both long‐term stability and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity remarkably. Particularly, the LSV polarization curve of Pt‐NbO2‐graphene catalyst almost has no degradation after ADT for 10,000 cycles. Meanwhile, as a comparison, Pt‐graphene and commercial Pt‐C (20%) catalysts present negative shift of half‐wave potential for 37 mV and 160 mV. Moreover, the half‐wave potential of Pt‐NbO2‐graphene is observed to negatively shift for only 17 mV until performing ADT of 18,000 cycles. This catalyst is a promising candidate for practical fuel cell applications.
Continuous Bioelectricity Generation from Phenol‐Contaminated Water by Mediator‐Less Microbial Fuel Cells: A Comparative Study between Air‐Cathode and Bio‐Cathode Systems
Authors: Ziaedini A. , Rashedi H. , Alaie E. , Zeinali M.
Published: July 2018

Due to metabolic activity of bacteria, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) can directly generate electricity by converting chemical energy of a biodegradable substrate to electrical energy. Simultaneous production of clean energy and wastewater treatment can be accomplished in these systems. In this study, phenol (100 ‐ 1,000 ppm) as a toxic model of wastewater pollutant compounds was used as the sole source of carbon and energy for growth of bacteria and concomitant power generation in a dual‐chamber MFC. Experiments were conducted in two lab‐scale systems including an air‐cathode and a bio‐cathode MFC operating in continuous mode. Anode and bio‐cathode chambers were inoculated with aerobic activated sludge from an industrial wastewater treatment plant. The highest output power was obtained at a phenol concentration of 700 ppm in both air‐cathode (25 mW m−2) and bio‐cathode (5 mW m−2) MFCs without using any co‐substrate for the first time confirming the higher performance of the air‐cathode electrode in oxygen reduction reaction. Phenol removal efficiency for an influent concentration of 700 ,ppm with an HRT of 125 min was 59.0% and 71.8% in bio‐cathode and air‐cathode MFCs, respectively. Cyclic voltammetry results confirmed involvement of both soluble and membrane‐bound mediator components in electrochemical activity of anodic biofilm.
An efficient and accurate method for robust inter‐dataset brain extraction and comparisons with 9 other methods
Authors: Novosad Philip , Collins D. Louis ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2018

Brain extraction is an important first step in many magnetic resonance neuroimaging studies. Due to variability in brain morphology and in the appearance of the brain due to differences in scanner acquisition parameters, the development of a generally applicable brain extraction algorithm has proven challenging. Learning‐based brain extraction algorithms in particular perform well when the target and training images are sufficiently similar, but often perform worse when this condition is not met. In this study, we propose a new patch‐based multi‐atlas segmentation method for brain extraction which is specifically developed for accurate and robust processing across datasets. Using a diverse collection of labeled images from 5 different datasets, extensive comparisons were made with 9 other commonly used brain extraction methods, both before and after applying error correction (a machine learning method for automatically correcting segmentation errors) to each method. The proposed method performed equal to or better than the other methods in each of two segmentation scenarios: a challenging inter‐dataset segmentation scenario in which no dataset‐specific atlases were used (mean Dice coefficient 98.57%, volumetric correlation 0.994 across datasets following error correction), and an intra‐dataset segmentation scenario in which only dataset‐specific atlases were used (mean Dice coefficient 99.02%, volumetric correlation 0.998 across datasets following error correction). Furthermore, combined with error correction, the proposed method runs in less than one‐tenth of the time required by the other top‐performing methods in the challenging inter‐dataset comparisons. Validation on an independent multi‐centre dataset also confirmed the excellent performance of the proposed method.
Frequency‐specific alterations of regional homogeneity in subcortical stroke patients with different outcomes in hand function
Authors: Zhao Zhiyong , Tang Chaozheng , Yin Dazhi , Wu Jie , Gong Jiayu , Sun Limin , Jia Jie , Xu Dongrong , Fan Mingxia
Published: July 2018

Emerging evidence has suggested that abnormalities in regional spontaneous brain activity following stroke may be detected by intrinsic low‐frequency oscillations (LFO) in resting‐state functional MRI (R‐fMRI). However, the relationship between hand function outcomes following stroke and local LFO synchronization in different frequency bands is poorly understood. In this study, we performed R‐fMRI to examine the regional homogeneity (ReHo) at three different frequency bands (slow‐5: .01–.027 Hz; slow‐4: .027–.08 Hz; and typical band: .01–.1 Hz) in 26 stroke patients with completely paralyzed hands (CPH) and 26 matched patients with partially paralyzed hands (PPH). Compared to the PPH group, decreased ReHo in the bilateral cerebellum posterior lobes and the contralesional cerebellum anterior lobe was observed in the slow‐5 band and the slow‐4 band in the CPH group, respectively. The mean ReHo values in these regions were positively correlated with the Fugl‐Meyer assessment (FMA) scores. In contrast, increased ReHo in the contralesional supplementary motor area and the contralesional superior temporal gyrus was observed in the slow‐4 band and the slow‐5 band, respectively. The mean ReHo values in these regions were negatively correlated with the FMA scores. Importantly, significant interactions were identified between the frequency bands and the subgroups of patients in the contralesional precentral gyrus and middle frontal gyrus. These findings indicate that frequency‐dependent R‐fMRI patterns may serve as potential biomarkers of the neural substrates associated with hand function outcomes following stroke.
Barriers to adequate first aid for paediatric burns at the scene of the injury
Authors: Frear Cody C. , Griffin Bronwyn , Watt Kerrianne , Kimble Roy
Published: July 2018

Issue Addressed

The recommended first aid for burns, consisting of 20 minutes of cool running water (CRW) delivered within three hours of the injury, offers a simple yet effective means of improving health outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine patient and injury characteristics associated with inadequate CRW therapy among children with thermal burns, with the goal of identifying populations at greatest risk of undertreatment.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed on children treated at a large tertiary paediatric burns centre. First aid was evaluated as either “adequate” or “inadequate”, and then descriptive analyses were conducted to examine differences between the groups in age, ethnicity, location and socioeconomic status, among others.

Results

From 2013 to 2016, the families of 2522 patients were interviewed. Overall, 31.3% of children received adequate CRW at the scene of the injury. Provision of adequate CRW did not significantly differ with sex, ethnicity or nationality. Factors that were associated with inadequate first aid included very young age and early adolescence (P < 0.001), rural or remote location (P = 0.045), low socioeconomic status (P = 0.030), radiant heat and flame burns (P < 0.001), as well as burns occurring at recreational sites, on farm/trade/industrial properties and in the street (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Although most burns occurred in close proximity to sources of CRW, first aid was poor across all demographics. The highest levels of undertreatment were found in children aged 0‐2, adolescents aged 15‐16, those living rurally or remotely, and the socioeconomically disadvantaged.

So what?

The study highlights the need for improved public education of first aid for burn injuries.
Understanding the process of strengthening multi‐sectoral efforts for anemia reduction: Qualitative findings from Sierra Leone and Uganda
Authors: Sarkar Danya , Murphy Hillary , Fisseha Teemar , Koroma Aminata S. , Hodges Mary H. , Adero Nancy , Ngalombi Sarah , Nabakooza Jane , Wun Jolene , Namaste Sorrel M.L.
Published: July 2018

Anemia is a significant global health problem, and progress to reduce it has been slow. A multi‐sectoral, context‐specific, and country‐led approach is recommended to effectively address anemia, but there is limited documentation of how this has worked in practice. We present key findings and lessons learned from Sierra Leone and Uganda's experiences establishing national‐level anemia coordination platforms. A longitudinal collective case study methodology was used, with in‐depth interviews of National Anemia Working Group members in both countries; data was analyzed to distill the salient lessons learned across countries. Similar factors were identified in the 2 countries. Setting the agenda was an important first step, accomplished by using country‐specific anemia‐related data and obtaining multi‐sectoral commitment. Establishment of a cohesive coordination structure provided an effective platform to prioritize and align anemia activities. Strong, committed leadership and representation of diverse stakeholders was essential to maintain the legitimacy of anemia efforts. The main barriers to the policy‐making process included misalignment of sectoral mandates, differences in work cultures, as well as competing priorities and increased staff workload. Sierra Leone and Uganda's experiences contribute to the global evidence base for anemia coordination and planning at the national level, particularly around linking health and non‐health sectors and developing multi‐sectoral platforms. It remains to be seen how and to what extent resulting policies in Sierra Leone and Uganda will translate to implementation.
Circulating enterolactone concentrations and prognosis of postmenopausal breast cancer: assessment of mediation by inflammatory markers
Authors: Jaskulski Stefanie , Jung Audrey Y. , Behrens Sabine , Johnson Theron , Kaaks Rudolf , Thöne Kathrin , Flesch‐Janys Dieter , Sookthai Disorn , Chang‐Claude Jenny
Published: July 2018

Higher lignan exposure has been associated with lower all‐cause mortality (ACM) and breast cancer‐specific mortality (BCSM) for postmenopausal breast cancer patients. However, the biological mechanisms underpinning these associations are still unclear. We investigated for the first time whether and to what extent the association between enterolactone (ENL), the major lignan metabolite, and postmenopausal breast cancer prognosis is mediated by inflammatory biomarkers. Circulating concentrations of ENL and inflammatory markers were measured in a population‐based prospective cohort of 1,743 breast cancer patients recruited between 2002 and 2005 and followed‐up until 2009. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CIs were estimated using multivariable Cox regression. Mediation analysis was performed to estimate the percentage association between ENL (log2) and ACM, BCSM and distant disease‐free survival (DDFS), which is mediated by C‐reactive protein (CRP) (log2), as the strongest potential mediator, and also interleukin (IL)‐10. Median serum/plasma ENL and CRP concentrations for all patients, including 180 deceased patients, were 23.2 and 17.5 nmol/L, and 3.2 and 6.5 mg/l, respectively. ENL concentrations were significantly inversely associated with ACM, BCSM and DDFS (per doubling of ENL concentrations: HRs 0.93 [0.87, 0.99], 0.91 [0.84, 0.99] and 0.92 [0.87, 0.99]), after adjusting for prognostic factors and BMI. Estimated 18, 14 and 12% of the effects of ENL on ACM, BCSM and DDFS, respectively, were mediated through CRP. No mediational effect of IL‐10 was found. We provide first evidence that the proinflammatory marker CRP may partially mediate the association of ENL with postmenopausal breast cancer survival, which supports hormone‐independent mechanisms.
Student Conceptualizations of Task, Audience, and Self in Writing College Admissions Essays
Authors: Aukerman Maren , Beach Richard
Published: July 2018

The authors examined how high school seniors conceptualized the task of writing college admissions essays, the audience for that writing, and themselves as potentially college‐worthy writers. In a survey and related interviews, students revealed more emphasis on generic good writing than on the narrative argument genre that college admissions personnel often privilege. Students who wrote to address a specific college admissions audience varied considerably in how they conceptualized this set of readers, and many students did not write with a particular audience in mind. Students who emphasized the pivotal role of writing quality were often equivocal about their chances of being convincing. These findings suggest that teachers should help students learn about the narrative argument genre, build students' familiarity with admissions readers as audiences, and support students' sense of self‐efficacy in academic writing. Recommendations for reshaping college admissions are also included.
Monte Carlo simulation of polarization‐sensitive second‐harmonic generation and propagation in biological tissue
Authors: Fung K. L. Barry , Samim Masood , Gribble Adam , Barzda Virginijus , Vitkin I. Alex
Published: July 2018

Polarization‐sensitive second harmonic generation (p‐SHG) is a nonlinear optical microscopy technique that has shown great promise in biomedicine, such as in detecting changes in the collagen ultrastructure of the tumor microenvironment. However, the complex nature of light‐tissue interactions and the heterogeneity of biological samples pose challenges in creating an analytical and experimental quantification platform for tissue characterization via p‐SHG. We present a Monte Carlo (MC) p‐SHG simulation model based on double Stokes‐Mueller polarimetry for the investigation of nonlinear light‐tissue interaction. The MC model predictions are compared with experimental measurements of second‐order nonlinear susceptibility component ratio and degree of polarization (DOP) in rat‐tail collagen. The observed trends in the behavior of these parameters as a function of tissue thickness, as well as the overall extent of agreement between MC and experimental results, are discussed. High sensitivities of the susceptibility ratio and DOP are observed for the varying tissue thickness on the incoming fundamental light propagation pathway.
Analyzing the feasibility of discriminating between collagen types I and II using polarization‐resolved second harmonic generation
Authors: Romijn Elisabeth I. , Finnøy Andreas , Lilledahl Magnus B.
Published: July 2018

According to previous studies, the nonlinear susceptibility tensor ratio χ33/χ31 obtained from polarization‐resolved second harmonic generation (P‐SHG) under the assumption of cylindrical symmetry can be used to distinguish between fibrillar collagen types. Discriminating between collagen fibrils of types I and II is important in tissue engineering of cartilage. However, cartilage has a random organization of collagen fibrils, and the assumption of cylindrical symmetry may be incorrect. In this study, we simulated the P‐SHG response from different collagen organizations and demonstrated a possible method to exclude areas where cylindrical symmetry is not fulfilled and where fibrils are located in the imaging plane. The χ33/χ31‐ratio for collagen type I in tendon and collagen type II in cartilage was estimated to be 1.33 and 1.36, respectively, using this method. These ratios are now much closer than what has been reported previously in the literature, and the larger reported differences between collagen types can be explained by variation in the structural organization.
The Effects of Long-term Administration of rhPTH(1-84) in Hypoparathyroidism by Bone Histomorphometry
Authors: Rubin Mishaela R , Zhou Hua , Cusano Natalie E , Majeed Rukshana , Omeragic Beatriz , Gomez Maximo , Nickolas Thomas L , Dempster David W , Bilezikian John P
Published: July 2018

Hypoparathyroidism is a rare disorder that is associated with abnormal bone properties. Recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1-84) [rhPTH(1-84)] in short-term studies has beneficial skeletal effects. Although rhPTH(1-84) will likely be used indefinitely, long-term effects on skeletal microstructure are unknown. We therefore studied histomorphometric changes with transiliac crest bone biopsies before and after 8.3 ± 1 years of rhPTH(1-84) in 13 hypoparathyroid subjects compared with 45 controls. Before institution of rhPTH(1-84), skeletal remodeling indices were markedly suppressed. With long-term treatment, indices of bone remodeling increased. Mineralizing surface increased by 26-fold (0.3 ± 1 to 7.9 ± 7%, p = 0.003), bone formation rate increased by 15-fold (0.003 ± 0.01 to 0.047 ± 0.05 μm2/μm/day, p = 0.007), osteoid width doubled (1.9 ± 1 to 4.3 ± 1 lamellae, p = 0.017), and osteoid surface tripled (3.3 ± 3 to 10.8 ± 6%, p = 0.011). Bone resorption as measured by eroded surface increased (4.6 ± 2 to 7.5 ± 3%, p = 0.021). Structural changes demonstrated intratrabecular tunneling, with increases in cancellous bone volume (19.6 ± 5 to 29.1 ± 11%, p = 0.017) and trabecular number (1.8 ± 1 to 2.5 ± 1 #/mm, p = 0.025). Cortical porosity tended to increase (6.3 ± 5 to 9.5 ± 3%, p = 0.07). Mineralizing surface, osteoid surface, and eroded surface surpassed control levels, as did cancellous bone volume, trabecular number, and cortical porosity. These data, the first to reflect such long exposure of any PTH for any disease, illustrate that PTH establishes and maintains a new skeletal state for at least 8 years in hypoparathyroidism. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Thymosin β4 suppresses CCl4‐induced murine hepatic fibrosis by down‐regulating transforming growth factor β receptor‐II
Authors: Li Hanchao , Li Qian , Zhang Xueting , Zheng Xiaoyan , Zhang Qiannan , Hao Zhiming
Published: July 2018

Background

The present study aimed to clarify the effects of thymosin β4 (Tβ4) on CCl4‐induced hepatic fibrosis in mice and to further explore the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Expression of Tβ4 in fibrotic liver tissues was assessed by a quantitative real time‐reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. The effects of intraperitoneal adeno‐associated virus‐Tβ4 (AAV‐Tβ4) on CCl4‐induced hepatic fibrosis were observed by the evaluation of collagen deposition, hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and pro‐fibrotic cytokine expression. In vitro tests with HSCs and hepatocytes were performed to confirm the effects of Tβ4.

Results

The expression of Tβ4 was down‐regulated in fibrotic mouse livers but was rapidly up‐regulated by CCl4‐induced acute injury. AAV‐Tβ4 pre‐treatment significantly attenuated liver injury, collagen deposition, HSC activation and pro‐fibrotic cytokine over‐expression, such as transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1), platelet‐derived growth factor B (PDGF‐B), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) in CCl4‐intoxicated mouse livers. In vitro experiments showed that Tβ4 suppressed HSC proliferation, blunted TGF‐β1‐induced HSC activation and reduced TGF‐β1‐induced TGF‐β1, PDGF‐B, CTGF and PAI‐1 expression in both HSCs and hepatocytes. Ectopic Tβ4 ameliorated the over‐expression of TGF‐β receptor‐II (TGF‐βRII) in the fibrotic mouse livers. Exogenous Tβ4 down‐regulated TGF‐βRII expression, whereas neutralizing endogenous extracellular Tβ4 with a specific antibody up‐regulated TGF‐βRII expression in cultured HSCs and hepatocytes.

Conclusions

Tβ4 possesses anti‐fibrotic activity in the liver, which is attributable, at least partly, to down‐regulating TGF‐βRII and thereby blunting TGF‐β1‐mediated fibrogenetic signaling in both HSCs and hepatocytes.
Isolation, Structural Characterization, and Validation of a New Compound Present in Non‐Carbonyl Curcuma longa (NCCL): A Potential Lead for Stroke
Authors: Gupta Swati , Ahmad Hafsa , Shukla Babita , Ojha Neha , Dwivedi Anil K.
Published: July 2018

The hexane soluble extract of Curcuma longa (Turmeric) [herbal medicament (HM)] developed by Central Drug Research Institute, India, as a new antistroke agent. It contains carbonyl as well as non‐carbonyl compounds. To see the activity of non‐carbonyl compounds, HM was reacted with semicarbazide hydrochloride to remove the carbonyl compounds. This chemically modified fraction [non‐carbonyl Curcuma longa (NCCL)] of HM was found to be active at lower dose than HM against endothelial mediated inflammation in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion induced rats. It reduced significantly the serum CK‐MB levels, inflammatory cytokine mediators (TNF‐α, IL‐6, IFN‐γ), plasma endothelial microparticle level and also found useful in improving the endothelial functionality. It was also found active in anti‐inflammatory and cytotoxic activity for sepsis and leukemia. To find out the compounds that are responsible for its enhanced activity in comparison of HM, we have isolated two major peaks present in the high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprint of NCCL and their structures were characterized. Based on the characterization, we found that these compounds are not the non‐carbonyl compounds present in HM but the new cyclic structures formed by the reaction of ar‐turmerone, α‐turmerone, and β‐turmerone with semicarbazide hydrochloride used in the reaction. This hypothesis was validated by isolation of ar‐turmerone, α‐turmerone, and β‐turmerone from HM and reacting them with semicarbazide hydrochloride using the same reaction conditions of NCCL formation. The same mass spectral data and same retention time (RT) value in high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis further confirms our hypothesis.
Community mobilization to modify harmful gender norms and reduce HIV risk: results from a community cluster randomized trial in South Africa
Authors: Pettifor Audrey , Lippman Sheri A , Gottert Ann , Suchindran Chirayath M , Selin Amanda , Peacock Dean , Maman Suzanne , Rebombo Dumisani , Twine Rhian , Gómez‐Olivé Francesc Xavier , Tollman Stephen , Kahn Kathleen , MacPhail Catherine
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Community mobilization (CM) is increasingly recognized as critical to generating changes in social norms and behaviours needed to achieve reductions in HIV. We conducted a CM intervention to modify negative gender norms, particularly among men, in order to reduce associated HIV risk.

Methods

Twenty two villages in the Agincourt Health and Socio‐Demographic Surveillance Site in rural Mpumalanga, South Africa were randomized to either a theory‐based, gender transformative, CM intervention or no intervention. Two cross‐sectional, population‐based surveys were conducted in 2012 (pre‐intervention, n = 600 women; n = 581 men) and 2014 (post‐intervention, n = 600 women; n = 575 men) among adults ages 18 to 35 years. We used an intent‐to‐treat (ITT) approach using survey regression cluster‐adjusted standard errors to determine the intervention effect by trial arm on gender norms, measured using the Gender Equitable Mens Scale (GEMS), and secondary behavioural outcomes.

Results

Among men, there was a significant 2.7 point increase (Beta Coefficient 95% CI: 0.62, 4.78, p = 0.01) in GEMS between those in intervention compared to control communities. We did not observe a significant difference in GEMS scores for women by trial arm. Among men and women in intervention communities, we did not observe significant differences in perpetration of intimate partner violence (IPV), condom use at last sex or hazardous drinking compared to control communities. The number of sex partners in the past 12 months (AOR 0.29, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.77) were significantly lower in women in intervention communities compared to control communities and IPV victimization was lower among women in intervention communities, but the reduction was not statistically significant (AOR 0.53, 95% CI 0.24 to 1.16).

Conclusion

Community mobilization can reduce negative gender norms among men and has the potential to create environments that are more supportive of preventing IPV and reducing HIV risk behaviour. Nevertheless, we did not observe that changes in attitudes towards gender norms resulted in desired changes in risk behaviours suggesting that more time may be necessary to change behaviour or that the intervention may need to address behaviours more directly.

Clinical Trials number

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02129530.
Maternal priorities for preventive therapy among HIV‐positive pregnant women before and after delivery in South Africa: a best–worst scaling survey
Authors: Kim Hae‐Young , Dowdy David W , Martinson Neil A , E Golub Jonathan , Bridges John F P , Hanrahan Colleen F
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Pregnant women newly diagnosed with HIV during pregnancy are often lost to follow up and their adherence rates drop after delivery. We quantified changes in priorities related to isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) among pregnant women living with HIV.

Methods

We enrolled pregnant women recently diagnosed with HIV from 14 primary health clinics during pregnancy and followed them after delivery in Matlosana, South Africa. Best–worst scaling (BWS) was used to determine the women's priorities out of 11 attributes related to preventive therapy in the ante‐ versus postpartum periods. Aggregate BWS scores were calculated based on the frequency with which participants selected each attribute as the best or worst among five options (across multiple choice sets). Individual BWS scores were also calculated and rescaled from 0 (always selected as worst) to 10 (always selected as best), and changes in BWS scores in the ante‐ versus postpartum periods were compared, using a paired t‐test. Factors associated with the changes in BWS scores were examined in multiple linear regressions. Spearman's rho was used to compare the ranking of attributes.

Results

Out of a total of 204 participants, 154 (75.5%) completed the survey in the postpartum at the median 15 (IQR: 11 to 27) weeks after delivery. Trust in healthcare providers was most highly prioritized both in the ante‐ (individual BWS Score = 7.34, SE = 0.13) and postpartum periods (BWS = 7.21 ± 0.11), followed by living a long life (BWS = 6.77 ± 0.09 in the ante‐ vs. BWS = 6.86 ± 0.10 in the postpartum). Prevention for infants’ health was more prioritized in the post‐ (BWS = 6.54 ± 0.09) versus antepartum periods (BWS = 6.11 ± 0.10) (p = 0.05). This change was associated with IPT initiation at enrolment (regression coefficient = 0.78 ± 0.33, p = 0.001). Difficulty in daily pill‐uptake was significantly more prioritized in the postpartum (BWS = 5.03 ± 0.11) than in the antepartum (BWS = 4.43 ± 0.10) (p < 0.01). Transportation cost and worry about side effects of pills were least prioritized. Overall ranking of attributes was similar in both time periods (spearman's rho = 0.90).

Conclusions

Comprehensive interventions to build trust in healthcare providers and support adherence may increase uptake of preventive therapy. Counselling needs to emphasize medication benefits for both maternal and infant health among HIV‐positive pregnant women.
3D printing in medical imaging and healthcare services
Authors: Abdullah Kamarul A. , Reed Warren
Published: July 2018

Three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology has demonstrated a huge potential for the future of medicine. Since its introduction, it has been used in various areas, for example building anatomical models, personalising medical devices and implants, aiding in precision medical interventions and the latest development, 3D bioprinting. This commentary is provided to outline the current use of 3D printing in medical imaging and its future directions for advancing the healthcare services.
Capturing the dynamics of leader–follower interactions: Stalemates and future theoretical progress
Authors: Hofmans Joeri , Dóci Edina , Solinger Omar N. , Choi Woohee , Judge Timothy A.
Published: July 2018

Despite being based on the premise of a dynamic interpersonal process, studies on leader–member exchange theory often fail to acknowledge its dyadic and dynamic nature. We discuss how the interpersonal affect dynamics literature—and particularly its focus on the emergence of relationship patterns—may advance research on leader–follower interactions.
Dealing with effect size multiplicity in systematic reviews and meta‐analyses
Authors: López‐López José A. , Page Matthew J. , Lipsey Mark W. , Higgins Julian P.T.
Published: July 2018

Systematic reviews often encounter primary studies that report multiple effect sizes based on data from the same participants. These have the potential to introduce statistical dependency into the meta‐analytic data set. In this paper, we provide a tutorial on dealing with effect size multiplicity within studies in the context of meta‐analyses of intervention and association studies, recommending a three‐step approach. The first step is to define the research question and consider the extent to which it mainly reflects interest in mean effect sizes (which we term a convergent approach) or an interest in exploring heterogeneity (which we term a divergent approach). A second step is to identify the types of multiplicities that appear in the initial database of effect sizes relevant to the research question, and we propose a categorization scheme to differentiate them. The third step is to select a strategy for dealing with each type of multiplicity. The researcher can choose between a reductionist meta‐analytic approach, which is characterized by inclusion of a single effect size per study, and an integrative approach, characterized by inclusion of multiple effect sizes per study. We present an overview of available analysis strategies for dealing with effect size multiplicity within studies and provide recommendations intended to help researchers decide which strategy might be preferable in particular situations. Last, we offer caveats and cautions about addressing the challenges multiplicity poses for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses.