bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OCORRÊNCIA DE DENGUE E INFESTAÇÃO LARVÁRIA POR AEDES AEGYPTI: UM ESTUDO ECOLÓGICO EM MUNICÍPIO BAIANO
Authors: Araújo Luísa Magalhães , Borja Patrícia Campos , Moraes Luiz Roberto Santos
Published: August 2017

A dengue é uma enfermidade recorrente, com manifestações em formas graves e letais, sendo alvo de preocupação no panorama de saúde pública brasileiro. Poucos estudos têm buscado explorá-la como um fenômeno multicausal. Este artigo investigou fatores socioambientais associados à ocorrência da enfermidade na cidade de Riacho de Santana-BA. A pesquisa de delineamento ecológico fez uso de dados secundários referentes às notificações de dengue, índices de infestação larvária por Aedes aegypti, condições socioeconômicas, sanitárias e climáticas, tratados com ferramentas estatísticas e análise espaço-temporal. Verificou-se que a sazonalidade da ocorrência de chuva foi sucedida pela infestação larvária do Aedes aegypti e esta pelo aumento dos casos de dengue. A região em situação mais afetada possuía setores com condição socioeconômica de baixa renda e alta taxa de ocupação domiciliar, o que provavelmente influenciou na oferta de condições à manutenção dos elevados índices de infestação larvária. A dengue persiste nas proximidades do bairro Peral, onde vivem pessoas com menor renda e em condições de insalubridade ambiental. A complexidade socioambiental relacionada com a ocorrência da dengue na cidade envolve fatores determinantes de ordem social, ambiental e cultural.
AVALIAÇÃO DO DESEMPENHO DO TRATAMENTO DE ESGOTOS SANITÁRIOS POR REATOR UASB SEGUIDO DE FILTRAÇÃO POR MEMBRANAS SUBMERSAS
Authors: Felizatto Mauro Roberto , De Souza Marco Antonio Almeida , Nery Felipe Coelho , Gontijo Norma
Published: August 2017

 

A incorporação da tecnologia de separação por membranas em processos anaeróbios (tal qual o reator UASB) representa uma inovação importante no desenvolvimento da engenharia de tratamento de águas residuárias, principalmente quando se deseja realizar o reúso de água. Esta pesquisa consistiu na avaliação da microfiltração através de membranas submersas, provido de sistema de retrolavagem, durante o tratamento contínuo do efluente de reator UASB operando com esgotos sanitários. As membranas utilizadas foram do tipo fibras-ocas fabricadas com o polímero poli(éter-imida). Como conclusão, os experimentos de longo termo realizados revelaram que a remoção alcançada pela microfiltração do efluente do reator UASB foi de 87% para Demanda Bioquímica de Oxigênio (DBO), 84% para Demanda Química de Oxigênio (DQO), 99% para Sólidos em Suspensão Totais (SST) e 2,02 unidades logarítmicas para Coliformes Fecais (CF).
Stochastic dynamics of intermittent pore‐scale particle motion in three‐dimensional porous media: Experiments and theory
Authors: Morales V. L. , Dentz M. , Willmann M. , Holzner M.
Published: August 2017

We study the evolution of velocity in time, which fundamentally controls the way dissolved substances are transported and spread in porous media. Experiments are conducted that use tracer particles to track the motion of substances in water, as it flows through transparent, 3‐D synthetic sandstones. Particle velocities along streamlines are found to be intermittent and strongly correlated, while their probability density functions are lognormal and nonstationary. We demonstrate that these particle velocity characteristics can be explained and modeled as a continuous time random walk that is both Markovian and mean reverting toward the stationary state. Our model accurately captures the fine‐scale velocity fluctuations observed in each tested sandstone, as well as their respective dispersion regime progression from initially ballistic, to superdiffusive, and finally Fickian. Model parameterization is based on the correlation length and mean and standard deviation of the velocity distribution, thus linking pore‐scale attributes with macroscale transport behavior for both short and long time scales.
The role of ocean fluxes and radiative forcings in determining tropical rainfall shifts in RCP8.5 simulations
Authors: McFarlane Ashly Ann , Frierson Dargan M. W.
Published: August 2017

We use Coupled Model Intercomparison Project global climate models forced with the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5 scenario to attribute tropical precipitation shifts under global warming scenarios and changes in cross‐equatorial atmosphere heat transport (c‐eq AHT) to changes in ocean and radiative fluxes. We find that the models tend to agree on the sign of c‐eq AHT and change in precipitation asymmetry induced by each forcing, but not the magnitude. The ice‐albedo feedback and aerosol emission reduction lead to the Northern Hemisphere warming, but this is countered by a reduction to the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation northward heat transport and increased longwave leading to the multimodel mean change in precipitation asymmetry being approximately zero. None of the forcings considered, including aerosol cleanup, can account for more than 20% of the multimodel mean change in c‐eq AHT alone.
Observation of ionospherically reflected quasiperiodic emissions by the DEMETER spacecraft
Authors: Hanzelka Miroslav , Santolík Ondřej , Hajoš Mychajlo , Němec František , Parrot Michel
Published: August 2017

Quasiperiodic (QP) electromagnetic emissions are whistler mode waves at typical frequencies of a few kHz characterized by a periodic time modulation of their intensity. The DEMETER spacecraft observed events where the QP emissions exhibit a sudden change in the wave vector and Poynting vector directions. The change happens in a short interval of latitudes. We explain this behavior by ionospheric reflection and present a ray‐tracing simulation which matches resulting wave vector directions. We also attempt to locate the source region of these emissions and conclude that they are most probably generated at the inner boundary of the plasmapause which also acts as a guide during the propagation of the QP emissions.
In memoriam: Edward D. Beard, 1934–2017
Authors: Cade William B.
Published: August 2017

Long‐time U.S. Air Force space environment/weather forecaster Edward Beard died on 23 July 2017.
Sodium hydrosulfide attenuates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by suppressing overactivated autophagy in rats
Authors: Jiang Wen‐Wu , Huang Bai‐Sheng , Han Yang , Deng Lv‐Hong , Wu Li‐Xiang
Published: August 2017

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and autophagy may be involved in the pathological process of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an endogenous gasotransmitter with protective effects against multiple diseases. Here, we tested the effect of H2S on cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats. Sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), an H2S donor, improved neurological function and reduced the size of the infarcts induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) followed by reperfusion in rats. NaHS treatment reduced the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity in the serum (a marker of cellular membrane integrity) and the expression of cleaved caspase‐3 (a marker for apoptosis) in the brains of MCAO rats. We also found that autophagy was overactivated in the brains of MCAO rats, as indicated by an increased ratio of LC3 II to I, decreased expression of p62, and transmission electron microscope detection. NaHS treatment significantly inhibited the autophagic activity in the brains of MCAO rats. Furthermore, PC12 cells were subjected to oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) to mimic MCAO in vitro. We found that NaHS treatment reduced cellular injury and suppressed overactivated autophagy induced by OGD/R in PC12 cells. An autophagy stimulator (rapamycin) eliminated the protective effect of NaHS against LDH release and caspase‐3 activity induced by OGD/R in PC12 cells. An autophagy inhibitor (3‐methyladenine, 3‐MA) also reduced the cellular injury induced by OGD/R in PC12 cells. In conclusion, the results indicate that overactivated autophagy accelerates cellular injury after MCAO in rats and that exogenous H2S attenuates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury via suppressing overactivated autophagy in rats.
Reversible Attachment with Tailored Permeability: The Feather Vane and Bioinspired Designs
Authors: Sullivan Tarah N. , Chon Michael , Ramachandramoorthy Rajaprakash , Roenbeck Michael R. , Hung Tzu‐Tying , Espinosa Horacio D. , Meyers Marc A.
Published: August 2017

In bird flight, the majority of the wing surface consists of highly refined and hierarchically organized feathers. They are composed of barbs that stem from the feather shaft and barbules that branch from barbs, forming a rigid feather vane. Barbules provide adhesion within the vane through an interlocking hook‐and‐groove mechanism to allow for the effective capture of air. This functional adhesive can reattach if structures unfasten from one another, preventing catastrophic damage of the vane. Here, using pelican primary feathers as a model material, we investigate the in‐plane adhesion and stiffness of barbules. With guineafowl, pelican, and dove feathers, we determine the effect of barbules on the feather vane's ability to capture air. The vane is found to have directional permeability, and the effect of detaching barbules on the feather's competency is determined to be a function of barb dimensions. Interestingly, barbule spacing is found to vary within a narrow 8–16 µm range for birds weighing from 4–11 000 g (hummingbird to condor). Additionally, bioinspired barbules are fabricated through additive manufacturing to study the complexities of the vane. Barbules are underexplored structures imperative to the adeptness of the feather in flight, with the potential to provide bioinspired aerospace materials.
Comparison of Simulation‐based Resuscitation Performance Assessments With In‐training Evaluation Reports in Emergency Medicine Residents: A Canadian Multicenter Study
Authors: Hall Andrew Koch , Damon Dagnone J. , Moore Sean , Woolfrey Karen G. H. , Ross John A. , McNeil Gordon , Hagel Carly , Davison Colleen , Sebok‐Syer Stefanie S.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Simulation stands to serve an important role in modern competency‐based programs of assessment in postgraduate medical education. Our objective was to compare the performance of individual emergency medicine (EM) residents in a simulation‐based resuscitation objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) using the Queen's Simulation Assessment Tool (QSAT), with portfolio assessment of clinical encounters using a modified in‐training evaluation report (ITER) to understand in greater detail the inferences that may be drawn from a simulation‐based OSCE assessment.

Methods

A prospective observational study was employed to explore the use of a multicenter simulation‐based OSCE for evaluation of resuscitation competence. EM residents from five Canadian academic sites participated in the OSCE. Video‐recorded performances were scored by blinded raters using the scenario‐specific QSATs with domain‐specific anchored scores (primary assessment, diagnostic actions, therapeutic actions, communication) and a global assessment score (GAS). Residents’ portfolios were evaluated using a modified ITER subdivided by CanMEDS roles (medical expert, communicator, collaborator, leader, health advocate, scholar, and professional) and a GAS. Correlational and regression analyses were performed comparing components of each of the assessment methods.

Results

Portfolio review and ITER scoring was performed for 79 residents participating in the simulation‐based OSCE. There was a significant positive correlation between total OSCE and ITER scores (r = 0.341). The strongest correlations were found between ITER medical expert score and each of the OSCE GAS (r = 0.420), communication (r = 0.443), and therapeutic action (r = 0.484) domains. ITER medical expert was a significant predictor of OSCE total (p = 0.002). OSCE therapeutic action was a significant predictor of ITER total (p = 0.02)

Conclusions

Simulation‐based resuscitation OSCEs and portfolio assessment captured by ITERs appear to measure differing aspects of competence, with weak to moderate correlation between those measures of conceptually similar constructs. In a program of competency‐based assessment of EM residents, a simulation‐based OSCE using the QSAT shows promise as a tool for assessing medical expert and communicator roles.
On the use of a powder rheometer to characterize the powder flowability at low consolidation with torque resistances
Authors: Salehi Hamid , Barletta Diego , Poletto Massimo , Schütz Denis , Romirer Richard
Published: August 2017

The Anton Paar Powder Cell was used to measure the torque necessary to rotate an impeller in beds of glass beads, sand and alumina powders aerated between no aeration to the minimum for fluidization. Measured torque values depend on the material tested, on the air flow rate applied, on the impeller depth and on the height of the impeller blade. The effect of the impeller depth is linear for low impeller depth and is less than linear at high depth values. A model was developed for the interpretation of the experimental results based on the idea that the material is shearing on the surface described by the impeller rotation. The model allows to estimate an effectiveness of the impeller in the torque determination and also to predict the torque for the impeller at the at deepest positions at which the wall effects have to be considered. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2017
Prenatal presentation of Mabry syndrome with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and phenotypic overlap with Fryns syndrome
Authors: Reynolds Kara K. , Juusola Jane , Rice Gregory M. , Giampietro Philip F.
Published: August 2017

We report on a family in which initial features were compatible with Fryns syndrome. The first sibling was a stillborn female with a left diaphragmatic hernia (DH). Her clinical features overlapped with Fryns syndrome. The second pregnancy, a male fetus, was followed for polyhydramnios, hypoplastic mandible, mild enlargement of the fetal bladder, hydronephrosis, and rocker bottom foot deformities. He had facial features similar to his sibling and a large cleft of the secondary palate, small jaw, and secundum atrial septal defect. He underwent surgical repair of imperforate anus, intestinal malrotation, and placement of mucous fistula for biopsy positive Hirschsprung disease. An elevated alkaline phosphatase level of 1569 U/L was reported. Whole exome sequencing performed on the second child demonstrated compound heterozygosity for the PIGV gene with the p.A341E and p.A418D variants in trans. Hyperphosphatasia with mental retardation syndrome (HPMRS) is caused by mutations in PIGV and includes hyperphosphatasia as a diagnostic hallmark. Our patient exhibited hyperphosphatasia but without any storage material in his skin cells. His features remain similar to his sister's, but includes seizures and lacks diaphragmatic hernia. Until now, HPMRS and Fryns syndrome, despite overlapping features, were considered mutually exclusive as HPMRS involves hyperphosphatasia and Fryns typically exhibits DH. Recent identification of PIGN mutations associated with several cases of Fryns syndrome point to a common pathogenetic etiology involving inborn errors of the glycosylphosphatidylinositiol anchor biosynthetic pathway. A diagnosis of HPMRS should be considered when DH is encountered on prenatal ultrasound.
Interstitial deletion 5p14.1‐p15.2 and 5q14.3‐q23.2 in a patient with clubfoot, blepharophimosis, arthrogryposis, and multiple congenital abnormalities
Authors: Balta Burhan , Erdogan Murat , Ergul Ayse B. , Sahin Yavuz , Ozcan Alper
Published: August 2017

Interstitial deletions of the short and long arms of chromosome 5 are rare cytogenetic abnormalities. The 5p distal deletion is a genetic disorder characterized by a high‐pitched cat‐like cry, microcephaly, epicanthal folds, micrognathia, severe intellectual disability and motor delays. Previously, more than 46 patients with the 5q deletion have been reported. Here, we report de novo interstitial deletions involving 5p14.1–p15.2 and 5q14.3–q23.2 in a patient with multiple congenital abnormalities, including blepharophimosis, arthrogryposis, short neck, round face, pelvic kidney, agenesis of the corpus callosum, and clubfoot. The deletions were characterized using GTG banding and aCGH microarray analysis. Concurrent 5p and 5q interstitial deletions in humans have not been previously reported. We also discussed the relationship between the 5q deleted region and clubfeet.
Visible light crosslinkable human hair keratin hydrogels
Authors: Yue Kan , Liu Yanhui , Byambaa Batzaya , Singh Vaishali , Liu Wanjun , Li Xiuyu , Sun Yunxia , Zhang Yu Shrike , Tamayol Ali , Zhang Peihua , Ng Kee Woei , Annabi Nasim , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: August 2017

Keratins extracted from human hair have emerged as a promising biomaterial for various biomedical applications, partly due to their wide availability, low cost, minimal immune response, and the potential to engineer autologous tissue constructs. However, the fabrication of keratin‐based scaffolds typically relies on limited crosslinking mechanisms, such as via physical interactions or disulfide bond formation, which are time‐consuming and result in relatively poor mechanical strength and stability. Here, we report the preparation of photocrosslinkable keratin‐polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogels via the thiol‐norbornene “click” reaction, which can be formed within one minute upon irradiation of visible light. The resulting keratin‐PEG hydrogels showed highly tunable mechanical properties of up to 45 kPa in compressive modulus, and long‐term stability in buffer solutions and cell culture media. These keratin‐based hydrogels were tested as cell culture substrates in both two‐dimensional surface seeding and three‐dimensional cell encapsulation, demonstrating excellent cytocompatibility to support the attachment, spreading, and proliferation of fibroblast cells. Moreover, the photocrosslinking mechanism makes keratin‐based hydrogel suitable for various microfabrication techniques, such as micropatterning and wet spinning, to fabricate cell‐laden tissue constructs with different architectures. We believe that the unique features of this photocrosslinkable human hair keratin hydrogel promise new opportunities for their future biomedical applications.
Cytoskeleton and nucleoskeleton involvement in processes of cytomixis in plants
Authors: Kravets Elena Adolphovna , Yemets Alla Ivanovna , Blume Yaroslav Borisovich
Published: August 2017

Cytomixis is a form of cell‐to‐cell nuclear migration that involves the interaction of dynamic cytoskeletal components with the nucleus through signalling systems and linker complexes. In cytomixis two known mechanisms can be involved: actomyosin and/or microtubules and their associated motors. Perinuclear actin anchors and determines the direction of nuclear movement. In microsporogenesis cytomixis is probably initiated by a cascade of signals that trigger prophase reorganization of nucleus and cytoskeleton, and is a result of cytoskeletal protein activation, as well as a weakening of mechanisms responsible for anchoring the nucleus. The interactions between nuclei and the cytoskeleton are mediated by linker complexes that play a major role in nuclear positioning and shape, chromatin–nuclear envelope interactions, nucleoskeleton organization, gene expression and genome organization. Other contributing factors include changes in the protein composition and post‐translational modifications that alter protein conformation. Cytomixis appears also to have relevance to higher order structuring, influencing tissue and organ architecture, causing collective forms of cell interactions and information exchange within a single continuum. In this review we summarize our current understanding of the cytoskeleton dynamic function in cytomictic nuclear migration.
Cover Picture: A Novel Dual Channel Fluorescent Probe for Ca2+ and Zn2+ Based on a Coumarin Schiff Base (Chin. J. Chem. 8/2017)
Authors: Pan Shengnan , Tang Haoyang , Song Zhanke , Li Jin , Guo Yuan
Published: August 2017

The cover picture shows a novel dual channel fluorescent probe for Ca2+ and Zn2+ based on a coumarin Schiff base. The probe displays a solvent dependent dual sensing, viz., recognition of Ca2+ in DMF‐H2O (9∶1, V/V) solution based on C = N isomerization, photoinduced electron transfer (PET) inhibition and chelation‐enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) mechanism as well as detection of Zn2+ in H2O‐CH3OH (9∶1, V/V) solution by excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) and CHEF processes. More details are discussed in the article by Guo et al. on page 1263–1269.

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Biophysical Screening of a Focused Library for the Discovery of CYP121 Inhibitors as Novel Antimycobacterials
Authors: Brengel Christian , Thomann Andreas , Schifrin Alexander , Allegretta Giuseppe , Kamal Ahmed A. M. , Haupenthal Jörg , Schnorr Isabell , Cho Sang Hyun , Franzblau Scott G. , Empting Martin , Eberhard Jens , Hartmann Rolf W.
Published: August 2017

The development of novel antimycobacterial agents against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is urgently required due to the appearance of multidrug resistance (MDR) combined with complicated long‐term treatment. CYP121 was shown to be a promising novel target for inhibition of mycobacterial growth. In this study, we describe the rational discovery of new CYP121 inhibitors by a systematic screening based on biophysical and microbiological methods. The best hits originating from only one structural class gave initial information about molecular motifs required for binding and activity. The initial screening procedure was followed by mode‐of‐action studies and further biological characterizations. The results demonstrate superior antimycobacterial efficacy and a decreased toxicity profile of our frontrunner compound relative to the reference compound econazole. Due to its low molecular weight, promising biological profile, and physicochemical properties, this compound is an excellent starting point for further rational optimization.
RGD Peptide‐Based Target Drug Delivery of Doxorubicin Nanomedicine
Authors: Sun Yuan , Kang Chen , Liu Fei , Zhou You , Luo Lei , Qiao Hongzhi
Published: August 2017

Preclinical Research

Doxorubicin (DOX) is commonly used for the treatment of breast cancer and lymphoma. However, its clinical use has been severely limited due to cardiotoxicity, requiring the development of safer and more efficient pharmaceutical formulations of DOX. Advances in nanotechnology have provided new ways to administer chemotherapeutic drugs like DOX are conveyed into the body and to tumor sites. These Nanotechnology approaches have aided in the selective accumulation of DOX into tumor sites via the enhanced permeability and retention. However, the absence of active targeting ligands still hinders the effective delivery of DOX. Among all active targeting ligands developed to date, RGD peptide (Arginylglycylaspartic acid) occupies a unique position owing to its inherent safety, biocompatibility, and targeting ability. Accordingly, modification of DOX with RGD ligand is anticipated to improve transport of DOX into tumor cells. In this review, we discuss using RGD peptide for improving the therapeutic efficacy of DOX nanomedicine. Drug Dev Res 78 : 283–291, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of a quantitative method for the analysis of cocaine analogue impregnated into textiles by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Xiao Linda , Alder Rhiannon , Mehta Megha , Krayem Nadine , Cavasinni Bianca , Laracy Sean , Cameron Shane , Fu Shanlin
Published: August 2017

Cocaine trafficking in the form of textile impregnation is routinely encountered as a concealment method. Raman spectroscopy has been a popular and successful testing method used for in situ screening of cocaine in textiles and other matrices. Quantitative analysis of cocaine in these matrices using Raman spectroscopy has not been reported to date. This study aimed to develop a simple Raman method for quantifying cocaine using atropine as the model analogue in various types of textiles. Textiles were impregnated with solutions of atropine in methanol. The impregnated atropine was extracted using less hazardous acidified water with the addition of potassium thiocyanate (KSCN) as an internal standard for Raman analysis. Despite the presence of background matrix signals arising from the textiles, the cocaine analogue could easily be identified by its characteristic Raman bands. The successful use of KSCN normalised the analyte signal response due to different textile matrix background interferences and thus removed the need for a matrix‐matched calibration. The method was linear over a concentration range of 6.25–37.5 mg/cm2 with a coefficient of determination (R2) at 0.975 and acceptable precision and accuracy. A simple and accurate Raman spectroscopy method for the analysis and quantification of a cocaine analogue impregnated in textiles has been developed and validated for the first time. This proof‐of‐concept study has demonstrated that atropine can act as an ideal model compound to study the problem of cocaine impregnation in textile. The method has the potential to be further developed and implemented in real world forensic cases.
MicroRNA‐337‐3p controls hepatobiliary gene expression and transcriptional dynamics during hepatic cell differentiation
Authors: Demarez Céline , Gérard Claude , Cordi Sabine , Poncy Alexis , Achouri Younes , Dauguet Nicolas , Rosa David A. , Gunning Patrick T. , Manfroid Isabelle , Lemaigre Frédéric P.
Published: August 2017

Transcriptional networks control the differentiation of the hepatocyte and cholangiocyte lineages from embryonic liver progenitor cells and their subsequent maturation to the adult phenotype. However, how relative levels of hepatocyte and cholangiocyte gene expression are determined during differentiation remains poorly understood. Here, we identify microRNA (miR)‐337‐3p as a regulator of liver development. miR‐337‐3p stimulates expression of cholangiocyte genes and represses hepatocyte genes in undifferentiated progenitor cells in vitro and in embryonic mouse livers. Beyond the stage of lineage segregation, miR‐337‐3p controls the transcriptional network dynamics of developing hepatocytes and balances both cholangiocyte populations that constitute the ductal plate. miR‐337‐3p requires Notch and transforming growth factor‐β signaling and exerts a biphasic control on the hepatocyte transcription factor hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α by modulating its activation and repression. With the help of an experimentally validated mathematical model, we show that this biphasic control results from an incoherent feedforward loop between miR‐337‐3p and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α. Conclusion: Our results identify miR‐337‐3p as a regulator of liver development and highlight how tight quantitative control of hepatic cell differentiation is exerted through specific gene regulatory network motifs. (Hepatology 2018;67:313‐327).
Use of Mac‐2 binding protein as a biomarker for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease diagnosis
Authors: Kamada Yoshihiro , Ono Masafumi , Hyogo Hideyuki , Fujii Hideki , Sumida Yoshio , Yamada Makoto , Mori Kojiroh , Tanaka Saiyu , Maekawa Tomohiro , Ebisutani Yusuke , Yamamoto Akiko , Takamatsu Shinji , Yoneda Masashi , Kawada Norifumi , Chayama Kazuaki , Saibara Toshiji , Takehara Tetsuo , Miyoshi Eiji ,   Japan Study Group of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (JSG‐NAFLD)
Published: August 2017

In contrast to patients with viral hepatitis, patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can progress to hepatocellular carcinoma during the initial stages of liver fibrosis. Development and implementation of noninvasive methods for diagnosis and progression prediction are important for effective NAFLD surveillance. Mac‐2 binding protein (Mac‐2bp) is a useful nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) diagnosis biomarker and a powerful prediction biomarker for NAFLD fibrosis stage. Wisteria floribunda agglutinin (WFA)‐positive Mac‐2bp (WFA+‐M2BP) is a novel serum fibrosis biomarker for chronic hepatitis C that has clinical validity. Mac‐2bp and WFA+‐M2BP are also clinical NAFLD biomarker candidates. We examined the efficacy of Mac‐2bp and WFA+‐M2BP for NAFLD assessment using patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD (n = 510; NAFLD cohort) and subjects who received a health check‐up (n = 2,122; check‐up cohort). In the NAFLD cohort, we set the fibrosis predicting cutoff values as 1.80 (F1), 2.21 (F2), and 2.24 μg/mL (F3). In the subjects with fatty liver from the check‐up cohort (n = 1,291), the serum Mac‐2bp levels were >1.80 μg/mL in 38.6% of the subjects (n = 498), and >2.24 μg/mL in 24.6% of the subjects (n = 318). The NAFLD cohort results indicated that Mac‐2bp and WFA+‐M2BP were equally useful for NASH diagnosis. During the early stages of fibrosis (F1, F2), the increase in Mac‐2bp was statistically significant but WFA+‐M2BP did not increase. Logistic regression analysis revealed that Mac‐2bp was an independent determinant for the prediction of advanced fibrosis stage (≥F2), even when adjusted for WFA+‐M2BP. Immunohistochemical staining of Mac‐2bp revealed that hepatocytes strongly expressed Mac‐2bp in patients with NAFLD. Conclusion: Our results indicated that hepatocyte‐derived Mac‐2bp would be a useful single biomarker for NASH diagnosis and fibrosis stage prediction in patients with NAFLD. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:780–791)
Evaluation of prenatal corticosteroid use in spontaneous preterm labor in the Brazilian Multicenter Study on Preterm Birth (EMIP)
Authors: Dias Tabata Z. , Passini Renato , Tedesco Ricardo P. , Lajos Giuliane J. , Rehder Patricia M. , Nomura Marcelo L. , Costa Maria L. , Oliveira Paulo F. , Sousa Maria H. , Cecatti Jose G. ,   the Brazilian Multicenter Study on Preterm Birth (EMIP) study group
Published: August 2017

Objective

To evaluate prenatal corticosteroid use in women experiencing spontaneous preterm labor and preterm delivery.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional multicenter study analyzed interview data from patients attending 20 hospitals in Brazil owing to preterm delivery between April 1, 2011 and July 30, 2012. Patients were stratified based on preterm delivery occurring before 34 weeks or at 34–36+6 weeks of pregnancy, and the frequency of prenatal corticosteroid use at admission was compared. Prenatal corticosteroid use, sociodemographic data, obstetric characteristics, and neonatal outcomes were examined.

Results

There were 1455 preterm deliveries included in the present study; 527 (36.2%) occurred before 34 weeks of pregnancy and prenatal corticosteroids were used in 285 (54.1%) of these pregnancies. Among neonates delivered at 32–33+6 weeks, prenatal corticosteroid use was associated with lower pneumonia (P=0.026) and mortality (P=0.029) rates. Among neonates delivered at 34–36+6 weeks, prenatal corticosteroid use was associated with longer neonatal hospital admission (P<0.001), and an increased incidence of 5‐minute Apgar scores below 7 (P=0.010), endotracheal intubation (P=0.042), surfactant use (P=0.006), neonatal morbidities (P=0.048), respiratory distress (P=0.048), and intraventricular hemorrhage (P=0.023).

Conclusion

Preterm labor and late preterm delivery were associated with worse neonatal outcomes following prenatal corticosteroids. This could reflect a sub‐optimal interval between administration and delivery.
A systematic review of primary outcomes and outcome measure reporting in randomized trials evaluating treatments for pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Duffy James M.N. , Hirsch Martin , Gale Chris , Pealing Louise , Kawsar Anusuya , Showell Marian , Williamson Paula R. , Khan Khalid S. , Ziebland Sue , McManus Richard J. ,   the International Collaboration to Harmonize Outcomes for Pre‐eclampsia (iHOPE)
Published: August 2017

Background

An evaluation of outcome reporting is required to develop a core outcome set.

Objectives

To assess primary outcomes and outcome measure reporting in pre‐eclampsia trials.

Search strategy

Five online databases were searched from inception to January 2016 using terms including “preeclampsia” and “randomized controlled trial”.

Selection criteria

Randomized controlled trials evaluating treatments for pre‐eclampsia published in any language were included.

Data collection and analysis

Primary outcomes and data on outcome measure reporting were systematically extracted and categorized.

Main results

Overall, 79 randomized trials including data from 31 615 women were included. Of those, 38 (48%) reported 35 different primary outcomes; 28 were maternal outcomes and seven were fetal/neonatal outcomes. Three randomized trials reported composite outcomes, incorporating between six and nine outcome components. The method of definition or measurement was infrequently or poorly reported. Even when outcomes were consistent across trials, different methods of definition or measurement were frequently described.

Conclusions

In randomized trials evaluating interventions for pre‐eclampsia, critical information related to the primary outcome, including definition and measurement, is regularly omitted. Developing a core outcome set for pre‐eclampsia trials would help to inform primary outcome selection and outcome measure reporting.
Effect of the organic loading rate on the performance and microbial populations during the anaerobic treatment of tequila vinasses in a pilot‐scale packed bed reactor
Authors: Arreola‐Vargas Jorge , Snell‐Castro Raúl , Rojo‐Liera Nuvia M , González‐Álvarez Víctor , Méndez‐Acosta Hugo O
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Pilot‐scale studies focused on evaluating the robustness of biofilm‐based anaerobic digestion processes for further application at full‐scale are scarce. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate the performance of a 445 L packed bed reactor (PBR) operated at different organic loading rates (OLRs between 4 and 12.5 g COD L‐1 d‐1) for the treatment of tequila vinasses. The reactor performance was correlated with the microbial dynamics to elucidate the specific role of the microbial communities in the degradation pathways that govern the process.

RESULTS

The PBR was operated for 231 days under different OLRs showing a stable performance. The COD removal and methane yield were maintained throughout the reactor operation at 86–89% and 0.24–0.28 L CH4 g‐1 CODadded, respectively. Meanwhile, the highest volumetric methane production rate of 3.03 L CH4 d‐1 L‐1 was reached at the highest OLR, 12.5 g COD L‐1 d‐1. Regarding microbial dynamics, the Bacteria and Archaea populations were able to adapt to the OLR disturbances, favoring the interactions between syntrophic Bacteria and Methanosaeta at high OLRs.

CONCLUSION

This work contributes to the scarce information regarding anaerobic treatment of tequila vinasses at pilot‐scale and demonstrates that the PBR is a promising and robust configuration that allows treating higher OLRs than currently reported technologies. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Bioelectrochemical enhancement of organic matter mineralization and sulfate reduction during acidogenesis
Authors: Li Yue , Zhao Zhiqiang , Yang Yafei , Zhao Huimin , Zhang Yaobin
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

The microbial electrolysis cell (MEC) has been widely reported as an efficient strategy to enhance anaerobic digestion. However, the role of the MEC during acidogenesis for treatment of sulfate‐containing wastes remains unclear. In this study a pair of electrodes was placed into an acidogenic reactor to form MEC‐based acidogenesis to investigate its performance in sulfate‐containing wastewater treatment.

RESULTS

The MEC obviously improved anaerobic acidogenesis treating sulfate‐containing wastewater. Higher COD removal and sulfate reduction were obtained in the MEC‐based acidogenesis even under high sulfate loading conditions. The MEC accelerated the conversion of substrate to acetate, indicating that acidogenesis was enhanced. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis showed that exoelectrogenic bacteria were enriched in the anodic biofilm.

CONCLUSION

The syntrophic metabolism between anodic exoelectrogenic bacteria and anaerobic fermentative bacteria might accelerate the anodic decomposition of complex substrates as well as cathodic sulfate reduction, then providing a positive environment for sulfate reduction during acidogenesis. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Early intervention with non‐ablative fractional laser to improve cutaneous scarring—A randomized controlled trial on the impact of intervention time and fluence levels
Authors: Karmisholt Katrine E. , Wenande Emily , Thaysen‐Petersen Daniel , Philipsen Peter A. , Paasch Uwe , Haedersdal Merete
Published: August 2017

Background and Objectives

Laser treatment in the early phases of wound healing may reduce scar formation. However, little is known on when in the early wound healing phases laser exposure most optimally should be provided and at which fluence levels. This study investigates the clinical effect of non‐ablative‐fractional‐laser (NAFL) performed at three early time points at a range of fluence levels versus untreated control scars.

Materials and Methods

A randomized, controlled, intra‐individual trial with erbium‐glass 1,540 nm NAFL versus no laser treatment on sixteen subjects receiving 10 standardized full‐thickness punch‐biopsy wounds. A single NAFL‐exposure was applied to test‐wounds 1 day before, immediately after, or 2 weeks after wounding. Three fluence levels provided deep and superficial energy depositions (range 30–70 mJ/microbeam). Primary outcome comprised the total‐score of the observer part of Patient‐Observer‐Scar‐Assessment‐Scale (POSAS), performed by blinded on‐site assessment at 3 months follow‐up. Secondary outcomes were clinical evaluation on visual‐analogue‐scale (VAS), reflectance measurements, and histology.

Results

NAFL‐treatment applied 1 day before, immediately after or 2 weeks after wounding had the potential to offer subtle but detectable improvement in clinical scar appearance compared to untreated controls. Thus, NAFL‐exposure 1 day before wounding (POSAS‐total: median of 15 vs. control‐median of 16, P = 0.03, VAS: median 4.1 vs. control‐median 5.5, P = 0.03, medium‐fluence), as well as immediately‐, and 2 weeks after wounding (POSAS‐total: P ≤ 0.05, low‐fluence) induced improvement compared to untreated controls. No significant differences in dyschromia were detected between NAFL‐treated and control scars. Histology showed subtle changes towards more mature interwoven bundles of collagen in NAFL‐treated scars as compared to controls.

Conclusions

This study indicates that a single NAFL‐treatment at low to medium fluence performed 1 day prior, or in the early phases of wound healing, may have the potential to optimize scar formation in full thickness wounds. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:28–36, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pediatric liver transplantation for hepatocellular cancer and rare liver malignancies: US multicenter and single‐center experience (1981‐2015)
Authors: Vinayak Rohan , Cruz Ruy J. , Ranganathan Sarangarajan , Mohanka Ravi , Mazariegos George , Soltys Kyle , Bond Geoff , Tadros Sameh , Humar Abhinav , Marsh J. Wallis , Selby Robert R. , Reyes Jorge , Sun Qing , Haberman Kimberly , Sindhi Rakesh
Published: August 2017

A tenth of all pediatric liver transplantations (LTs) are performed for unresectable liver malignancies, especially the more common hepatoblastoma (HBL). Less understood are outcomes after LT for the rare hepatocellular carcinoma, nonhepatoblastoma embryonal tumors (EMBs), and slow growing metastatic neuroendocrine tumors of childhood. Pediatric LT is increasingly performed for rare unresectable liver malignancies other than HBL. We performed a retrospective review of outcomes after LT for malignancy in the multicenter US Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR; n = 677; 1987‐2015). We then reviewed the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (CHP; n = 74; 1981‐2014) experience focusing on LT for unresectable hepatocellular cancer (HCC), EMBs, and metastatic liver tumors (METS). HBL was included to provide reference statistics. In the SRTR database, LT for HCC and HBL increased over time (P < 0.001). Compared with other malignancies, the 149 HCC cases received fewer segmental grafts (P < 0.001) and also experienced 10‐year patient survival similar to 15,710 adult HCC LT recipients (51.6% versus 49.6%; P = 0.848, not significant [NS], log‐rank test). For 22 of 149 cases with incidental HCC, 10‐year patient survival was higher than 127 primary HCC cases (85% [95% confidence interval (CI), 70.6%‐100%] versus 48.3% [95% CI, 38%‐61%]; P = 0.168, NS) and similar to 3392 biliary atresia cases (89.9%; 95% CI, 88.7%‐91%). Actuarial 10‐year patient survival for 17 EMBs, 10 METS, and 6 leiomyosarcoma patients exceeded 60%. These survival outcomes were similar to those seen for HBL. At CHP, posttransplant recurrence‐free and overall survival among 25 HCC, 17 (68%) of whom had preexisting liver disease, was 16/25 or 64%, and 9/25 or 36%, respectively. All 10 patients with incidental HCC and tumor‐node‐metastasis stage I and II HCC survived recurrence‐free. Only vascular invasion predicted poor survival in multivariate analysis (P < 0.0001). A total of 4 of 5 EMB patients (80%) and all patients with METS (neuroendocrine‐2, pseudopapillary pancreatic‐1) also survived recurrence‐free. Among children, LT can be curative for unresectable HCC confined to the liver and without vascular invasion, incidental HCC, embryonal tumors, and metastatic neuroendocrine tumors. Liver Transplantation 23 1577–1588 2017 AASLD.
Liver and systemic hemodynamics in children with cirrhosis: Impact on the surgical management in pediatric living donor liver transplantation
Authors: de Magnée Catherine , Veyckemans Francis , Pirotte Thierry , Menten Renaud , Dumitriu Dana , Clapuyt Philippe , Carbonez Karlien , Barrea Catherine , Sluysmans Thierry , Sempoux Christine , Leclercq Isabelle , Zech Francis , Stephenne Xavier , Reding Raymond
Published: August 2017

Cirrhosis in adults is associated with modifications of systemic and liver hemodynamics, whereas little is known about the pediatric population. The aim of this work was to investigate whether alterations of hepatic and systemic hemodynamics were correlated with cirrhosis severity in children. The impact of hemodynamic findings on surgical management in pediatric living donor liver transplantation (LT) was evaluated. Liver and systemic hemodynamics were studied prospectively in 52 children (median age, 1 year; 33 with biliary atresia [BA]). The hemodynamics of native liver were studied preoperatively by Doppler ultrasound and intraoperatively using invasive flowmetry. Portosystemic gradient was invasively measured. Systemic hemodynamics were studied preoperatively by Doppler transthoracic echocardiography and intraoperatively by using transpulmonary thermodilution. Hemodynamic parameters were correlated with Pediatric End‐Stage Liver Disease (PELD) score and the histological degree of fibrosis (collagen proportionate area [CPA]). Cirrhosis was associated with a 60% reduction of pretransplant total liver flow (n = 46; median, 36 mL/minute/100 g of liver) compared with noncirrhotic livers (n = 6; median, 86 mL/minute/100 g; P = 0.002). Total blood flow into the native liver was negatively correlated with PELD (P < 0.001) and liver CPA (P = 0.005). Median portosystemic gradient was 14.5 mm Hg in children with cirrhosis and positively correlated with PELD (P < 0.001). Portal vein (PV) hypoplasia was observed mainly in children with BA (P = 0.02). Systemic hemodynamics were not altered in our children with cirrhosis. Twenty‐one children met the intraoperative criteria for PV reconstruction using a portoplasty technique during the LT procedure and had a smaller PV diameter at pretransplant Doppler ultrasound (median = 3.4 mm; P < 0.001). Cirrhosis in children appears also as a hemodynamic disease of the liver, correlated with cirrhosis severity. Surgical technique for PV reconstruction during LT was adapted accordingly. Liver Transplantation 23 1440–1450 2017 AASLD.
Corrosion behavior of hydrogen charged super duplex stainless steel welded joints
Authors: Świerczyńska A. , Łabanowski J. , Michalska J. , Fydrych D.
Published: August 2017

The electrochemical behavior of the weld metal, heat‐affected zone (HAZ), and base material of super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) welded joints, made with the application of flux‐cored arc welding (FCAW) and submerged arc welding (SAW), were investigated with the use of metallographic examinations (optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy), potentiodynamic polarization measurements and total hydrogen content determination in the initial state and after hydrogen charging. The obtained results revealed that the effect of hydrogen depended on the microstructure and type of the region of a welded joint. The highest amount of hydrogen penetrated the welded joint charged at 1 mA cm−2. It was observed in case of the FCAW‐welded joint, made with lower heat input. The electrochemical measurements showed that the base material was the most corrosion resistant part of the welded joint while the hydrogen charging strongly changed pitting and general corrosion susceptibility of HAZ and weld metal of both welded joints.
Experimental and computational evaluation of illicium verum as a novel eco‐friendly corrosion inhibitor for aluminium
Authors: Ladha D. G. , Shah N. K. , Ghelichkhah Z. , Obot I. B. , Khorrami Dehkharghani F. , Yao J.‐Z. , Macdonald D. D.
Published: August 2017

Illicium verum extract is investigated as a corrosion inhibitor of aluminium in the presence of an acid medium using gravimetric and impedance techniques. The gravimetric results reveal that the adsorption of inhibitor on the metal surface is physisorption. The impedance measurements are used to interpret the electrochemical process occurring at the interface of aluminium and corrosive medium. The surface characteristics of aluminium are evaluated using scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The percentage composition of chemical constituents present in the extract is obtained using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry and E‐anethole is found to be the main chemical component. The interaction between the chemical constituents or inhibitor molecules and the metal surface are evaluated using Monte Carlo simulation. The determination of electron density on the inhibitor molecules is performed using density functional theory. The results from this respective study demonstrate good inhibitive properties of the illicium verum extract towards the corrosion of aluminium in concentrated hydrochloric acid solution.
Corrosive delamination processes of CFRP‐aluminum alloy hybrid components
Authors: Bauer A. , Grundmeier G. , Steger H. , Weitl J.
Published: August 2017

This study investigates the corrosion behavior of the contact element CFRP‐aluminum under standardized corrosion conditions. Both, the corrosion of the aluminum alloy and the coupled corrosion of the carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) were examined. FE‐SEM analysis was performed to analyze the microscopic corrosive attack. While anodic corrosion was observed for the alloy especially close to the material transition, the cathodic corrosion of the CFRP led to fracture and buckling of the glass fibers and moreover to delamination between the carbon fibers and the epoxy matrix. Finally, the influence of a cathodic polarization on the transverse tensile stress resistance of the composite was tested. The observed carbon fiber/epoxy matrix debonding processes led to a significant reduction of the mechanical properties.