bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shame, Poverty and Development Studies
Authors: Engel Susan
Published: August 2017

Development studies have been slow to explore and embrace the burgeoning field of emotions research, yet increasingly development interventions are adopting emotions‐based strategies, including the deliberate use of shaming. This article reviews the implications of a new three volume collection on poverty and shame for development studies, arguing that it offers a fruitful avenue for research that focuses on understanding the lived experiences, perceptions and feelings of the poor, as opposed to conventional uncompassionate qualitative analysis.
Do the Chinese Bring Chitukuko? Rural Malawian Understandings of Chinese Development
Authors: McNamara Thomas
Published: August 2017

The Government of China assists Malawi with infrastructure, grants and loans, and Chinese businesses provide cheap commodities to Malawians. Despite this, Tumbuka northern Malawians do not conceptualise the Chinese as doing development. Rather, they perceive the Government of China as exploiting their government and conceptualise Chinese goods as signifiers of Malawi's underdevelopment. This article argues that Tumbuka apprehensions about China reflect a prominent Malawian discourse, where ‘development’ is associated with westernisation and is gifted into a nation and community by wealthy outsiders. This finding goes someway to explaining Malawians' reactions to Chinese ‘developers’ and presents a challenge to western development norms. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantification of the salivary volume flow rate in the parotid duct using the time‐spatial labeling inversion pulse (Time‐SLIP) technique at MRI: A feasibility study
Authors: Fukumoto Wataru , Higaki Toru , Matsuoka Yoshiko , Tatsugami Fuminari , Baba Yasutaka , Iida Makoto , Awai Kazuo
Published: August 2017

Background

We developed a method to quantify the volume flow rate (VFR) using the time‐spatial labeling inversion pulse (Time‐SLIP) technique to evaluate salivary function.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To investigate the accuracy of quantification of the salivary VFR using the Time‐SLIP technique in phantoms and to examine the feasibility of its use in human subjects.

Study Type

This was a prospective phantom and volunteer study.

Population/Subjects/Phantom/Specimen/Animal Model

A phantom and 23 normal volunteers who fasted at least 2 hours study was performed.

Field Strength/Sequence

Flow images of the phantom and the parotid duct of 23 volunteers were acquired on a 3T‐MRI scanner using the Time‐SLIP technique.

Assessment

Hypothesizing that flow aggregates in the conducting duct, we measured the VFR on flow images. In the phantom study, the actual VFR (slow, medium, fast flow) was controlled by an automatic pump system and the measured VFR was compared with the actual VFR on flow images. In the human study we injected citric acid into the mouth of healthy volunteers to stimulate saliva secretion and recorded the VFR.

Statistical Tests

As this study was a feasibility study, statistical tests were not performed.

Results

In the phantom study, the VFR at slow, medium, and fast flow was 5.7 ± 0.4 (SD), 8.4 ± 0.3, and 12.2 ± 1.1 mm3/sec, respectively. The error between the measured and actual VFR values was 2.8–3.7%. Salivary flow in the parotid duct was visualized in 22 of the 23 volunteers. The mean VFR was 8760 mm3/10 min.

Data Conclusion

When salivary flow was stimulated with citric acid in normal volunteers, the salivary VFR could be obtained using the Time‐SLIP technique.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:928–935.
HCV avidity as a tool for detection of recent HCV infection: Sensitivity depends on HCV genotype
Authors: Shepherd Samantha J. , McDonald Scott A. , Palmateer Norah E. , Gunson Rory N. , Aitken Celia , Dore Gregory J. , Goldberg David J. , Applegate Tanya L. , Lloyd Andrew R. , Hajarizadeh Behzad , Grebely Jason , Hutchinson Sharon J.
Published: August 2017

Accurate detection of incident hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is required to target and evaluate public health interventions, but acute infection is largely asymptomatic and difficult to detect using traditional methods. Our aim was to evaluate a previously developed HCV avidity assay to distinguish acute from chronic HCV infection. Plasma samples collected from recent seroconversion subjects in two large Australian cohorts were tested using the avidity assay, and the avidity index (AI) was calculated. Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with low/high AI were compared via logistic regression. Sensitivity and specificity of the assay for recent infection and the mean duration of recent infection (MDRI) were estimated stratified by HCV genotype. Avidity was assessed in 567 samples (from 215 participants), including 304 with viraemia (defined as ≥250 IU/mL). An inverse relationship between AI and infection duration was found in viraemic samples only. The adjusted odds of a low AI (<30%) decreased with infection duration (odds ratio [OR] per week of 0.93; 95% CI:0.89‐0.97), and were lower for G1 compared with G3 samples (OR = 0.14; 95% CI:0.05‐0.39). Defining recent infection as <26 weeks, sensitivity (at AI cut‐off of 20%) was estimated at 48% (95% CI:39‐56%), 36% (95% CI:20‐52%), and 65% (95% CI:54‐75%) and MDRI was 116, 83, and 152 days for all genotypes, G1, and G3, respectively. Specificity (≥52 weeks infection duration, all genotypes) was 96% (95% CI:90‐98%). HCV avidity testing has utility for detecting recent HCV infection in patients, and for assessing progress in reaching incidence targets for eliminating transmission, but variation in assay performance across genotype should be recognized.
Effect of TLR10 (2322A/G, 720A/C, and 992T/A) polymorphisms on the pathogenesis of Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever disease
Authors: Kızıldağ Sibel , Arslan Serdal , Özbilüm Nil , Engin Aynur , Bakır Mehmet
Published: August 2017

Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick‐borne disease caused by the Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV). Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) are type 1 transmembrane proteins of immune cells that play a critical role in innate and adaptive immunity. The present study first time aims to investigate the relation between TLR10 gene polymorphisms (720A/C, 992T/A, and 2322A/G), severity/non‐severity, fatality/non‐fatality, and CCFH disease by using PCR‐RFLP assay in a Turkish population. TLR10 720A/C polymorphism was determined to be statistically significant both genotype and allele frequency (P = 0,011,P = 0.015, respectively). TLR10 992T/A polymorphism was found statistically significant relationships between patient and control (P = 0.026) and individual with AA genotype have approximately three times greater risk than TT genotype (OR = 2.93). There was not a significant difference in 2322A/G genotype distribution (P = 0.152). There were also statistically significant associations between both TLR10 992T/A and 2322A/G polymorphism and patient mortality (P = 0.001 andP = 0.008, respectively). We have not found statistically any linkage among TLR10 haplotype, but individual AAA and GAT haplotype have higher risk than individual AAT haplotype (OR = 3.22,OR = 1.93, respectively). Consequently, this study shows that pathogenesis of CCHF disease is associated with the TLR10 720A/C and 992T/A polymorphisms. There is a statistically significant association in fatal/non‐fatal patients with TLR10 720A/C and 992T/A. The TLR10 992AA genotype might increase and TLR10 720CC genotype might decrease susceptibility to pathogenesis of CCHF disease. TLR 10 polymorphisms may be also an important biomarker for CCHF susceptibility and fatality rate.
Comparison of the performance in detection of HPV infections between the high‐risk HPV genotyping real time PCR and the PCR‐reverse dot blot assays
Authors: Zhang Lahong , Dai Yibei , Chen Jiahuan , Hong Liquan , Liu Yuhua , Ke Qiang , Chen Yiwen , Cai Chengsong , Liu Xia , Chen Zhaojun
Published: August 2017

A new multiplex real‐time PCR assay, the high‐risk HPV genotyping real time PCR assay (HR HPV RT‐PCR), has been developed to detect 15 high‐risk HPV types with respective viral loads. In this report, a total of 684 cervical specimens from women diagnosed with vaginitis were assessed by the HR HPV RT‐PCR and the PCR reaction and reverse dot blot (PCR‐RDB) assays, using a PCR‐sequencing method as a reference standard. A total coincidence of 97.7% between the HR HPV RT PCR and the PCR‐RDB assays was determined with a Kappa value of 0.953. The HR HPV RT PCR assay had sensitivity, specificity, and concordance rates (accuracy) of 99.7%, 99.7%, and 99.7%, respectively, as confirmed by PCR‐sequencing, while the PCR‐RDB assay had respective rates of 98.8%, 97.1%, and 98.0%. The overall rate of HPV infection, determined by PCR‐sequencing, in women diagnosed with vaginitis was 49.85%, including 36.26% of single infection and 13.6% of multiple infections. The most common infections among the 15 high‐risk HPV types in women diagnosed with vaginitis were HPV‐52, HPV‐16, and HPV‐58, with a total detection rate of 10.23%, 7.75%, and 5.85%, respectively. We conclude that the HR HPV RT PCR assay exhibits better clinical performance than the PCR‐RDB assay, and is an ideal alternative method for HPV genotyping. In addition, the HR HPV RT PCR assay provides HPV DNA viral loads, and could serve as a quantitative marker in the diagnosis and treatment of single and multiple HPV infections.
Optimizing a micro‐computed tomography‐based surrogate measurement of bone‐implant contact
Authors: Meagher Matthew J. , Parwani Rachna N. , Virdi Amarjit S. , Sumner Dale R.
Published: August 2017

Histology and backscatter scanning electron microscopy (bSEM) are the current gold standard methods for quantifying bone‐implant contact (BIC), but are inherently destructive. Microcomputed tomography (μCT) is a non‐destructive alternative, but attempts to validate μCT‐based assessment of BIC in animal models have produced conflicting results. We previously showed in a rat model using a 1.5 mm diameter titanium implant that the extent of the metal‐induced artefact precluded accurate measurement of bone sufficiently close to the interface to assess BIC. Recently introduced commercial laboratory μCT scanners have smaller voxels and improved imaging capabilities, possibly overcoming this limitation. The goals of the present study were to establish an approach for optimizing μCT imaging parameters and to validate μCT‐based assessment of BIC. In an empirical parametric study using a 1.5 mm diameter titanium implant, we determined 90 kVp, 88 µA, 1.5 μm isotropic voxel size, 1600 projections/180°, and 750 ms integration time to be optimal. Using specimens from an in vivo rat experiment, we found significant correlations between bSEM and μCT for BIC with the manufacturer's automated analysis routine (r = 0.716, p = 0.003) or a line‐intercept method (r = 0.797, p = 0.010). Thus, this newer generation scanner's improved imaging capability reduced the extent of the metal‐induced artefact zone enough to permit assessment of BIC. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:979–986, 2018.
Determination of materials and techniques involved in the mural paintings of San Miguel Church, Argentina
Authors: Tascon Marcos , Mastrangelo Noemi , Gallegos Damasia , Marte Fernando
Published: August 2017

The research conducted on the mural paintings of the dome and aisles of the San Miguel Church, Buenos Aires, Argentina, is herein described in this work. Based on the results attained from the stratigraphic analysis, the technique implemented by the architect and artist Augusto Ferrari was secco. The composition of the mortar in the majority of the samples collected was gypsum (CaSO4 · 2 H2O) and calcite (CaCO3), whereas the preparation layer was mainly characterized by the presence of gypsum and cerussite (PbCO3). In addition, the red pigments were characterized in all cases as hematite (Fe2O3) whereas orange and ochre colors were achieved by mixing chrome yellow (PbCrO4), chrome orange (PbCrO4·PbO), and gypsum and barite (BaSO4). Moreover, all the range of blue samples found in this mural paintings were characterized as lazurite (Na8 [Al6Si6O24] Sn). Finally, the gildings were composed of a superficial layer of gold of approximately 5‐μm thickness, followed by a layer of hematite and chrome yellow. The latter was also employed as a yellow pigment in all of the analyzed works of art. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that the use of complementary and microdestructive spectroscopic methodologies is a very useful tool to determine not only the materiality but also the execution technique of the painting in order to assess, in an interdisciplinary approach, the future restoration and preservation strategies.
Influence of tumor response and treatment schedule on the distribution of tumor recurrence in esophageal cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Jipping Kristien M. , Hulshoff Jan Binne , van Amerongen Evita A. , Bright Tim I. , Watson David I. , Plukker John Th.M.
Published: August 2017

Background and Objectives

The impact of different neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) schedules and pathologic complete response (pCR) on the distribution of recurrence is unclear in esophageal cancer (EC). We assessed the effect of pCR and nCRT schedule in EC.

Methods

Patients with T1N+/T2‐4aN0‐3/M0 EC treated in different centers, with either carboplatin/paclitaxel/41.4 Gy (CROSS: n = 134) or Cisplatin/5‐fluorouracil/45‐50.4 Gy (Cis/5FU: n = 88) followed by surgery were included. The effect of pCR on distribution and site‐specific recurrence was determined for the CROSS group. After propensity score matching we compared the impact of both schedules (n = 63 each) on the recurrence pattern.

Results

Overall (P = 0.005) and disease‐free survival (P = 0.002) were significantly longer after pCR (n = 24). The pattern of recurrence differed between pCR and non‐pCR group (P = 0.001) for locoregional (0 vs 7; 6.4%), distant (5; 20.8% vs 36; 32.7%), and combined local and distant (0 vs 21; 19.1%), respectively. After pCR, less local and distant recurrences were seen (P = 0.008). With equal median time to recurrence, the distribution of metastases only differed for lung metastases (P = 0.029), with 15 (23.8%) in the CROSS group versus 6 (9.5%) following Cis/5FU.

Conclusions

Patients with pCR have less local and distant recurrence. The nCRT regime had a minor influence on the site‐specific distribution of recurrence.
Stereoselective determination of dufulin in watermelon under field conditions using chiral ultra high performance liquid chromatography with high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Zheng Kunming , Gong Jin , Li Xiaoqin , Jia Guifei , Wu Sizhuo , Zhang Haizhen , Hu Deyu , Zhang Kankan
Published: August 2017

An effective and sensitive chiral analytical method was established to investigate the stereoselective dissipation of rac‐dufulin in watermelon using ultra high performance liquid chromatography with a superchiral S‐OD chiral column (4.6 × 150 mm i.d., 5 μm) coupled with high‐resolution mass spectrometry. To optimize the pretreatment method for detecting rac‐dufulin in the three matrixes, different extraction solvents, extractant volumes, extraction times, and absorbents were investigated to improve extraction efficiency. Moreover, analysis of variance was used to perform method validation for determination of the two dufulin enantiomers in the three matrixes. Using the optimized method, good linearity was obtained (determination coefficient > 0.999). The limits of detection and quantification of the two dufulin enantiomers in soil, watermelon, and pulp were 0.15 and 0.5 μg/kg, respectively. The average recoveries of the two enantiomers in the three matrixes at four spiked levels ranged from 75.0 to 107.8%, with intra‐ and inter‐day relative standard deviations of 0.4–10.4%. In field trials, the R enantiomer was preferentially dissipated in watermelon. These method validation results confirmed that the developed method was convenient and reliable for the stereoselective determination of enantiomers of rac‐dufulin in watermelon.
A longitudinal simulation‐based ethical–legal curriculum for otolaryngology residents
Authors: Fanous Amanda , Rappaport Jamie , Young Meredith , Park Yoon Soo , Manoukian John , Nguyen Lily H. P.
Published: August 2017

Objective

To develop, implement, and evaluate a longitudinal, simulation‐based ethics and legal curriculum designed specifically for otolaryngology residents.

Methods

Otolaryngology residents were recruited to participate in a yearly half‐day ethical–legal module, the curriculum of which spanned 4 years. Each module included: three simulated scenarios, small‐group multisource feedback, and large‐group debriefings. Scenarios involved encounters with standardized patients. Residents' ethical–legal knowledge was assessed pre‐ and postmodule with multiple‐choice questions, and ethical reasoning was assessed by a variety of evaluators during the simulated scenario using a locally developed assessment tool. Participants completed an exit survey at the end of each module.

Results

Eighteen residents completed four modules from the academic years of 2008 to 2009 to 2011 to 2012. The first year was considered a pilot module, and data were collected for the following 3 years. Knowledge of legal issues improved significantly among residents (mean at pre = 3.40 and post = 4.60, P < 0.05). Residents' ethical reasoning skills also improved across years (mean 3.60/5 in 2009–2010, 3.76/5 in 2010–2011, and 4.33 in 2011–2012, P < 0.05). Survey results revealed a statistically significant self‐perceived improvement in ethics reasoning skills (mean pre = 3.62, post = 4.86, P < 0.05). Participants reported that the curriculum was relevant to their practice (85%), that the debriefings were of high quality (83%), and that they would recommend this module to others (88%).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study exploring a longitudinal simulation‐based ethical–legal curriculum tailored to otolaryngology–head and neck surgery residents. This educational program resulted in a both objective and subjective improvement in legal and ethics knowledge and skills.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 127:2501–2509, 2017
A randomized controlled trial of corticosteroids for pain after transoral robotic surgery
Authors: Clayburgh Daniel , Stott Will , Bolognone Rachel , Palmer Andrew , Achim Virginie , Troob Scott , Li Ryan , Brickman Daniel , Graville Donna , Andersen Peter , Gross Neil D.
Published: August 2017

Objective

To determine if an extended perioperative course of corticosteroids will improve pain control following transoral robotic surgery (TORS).

Study Design

Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.

Methods

Patients undergoing TORS for initial treatment of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma received a single intraoperative dose of 10‐mg dexamethasone and then were randomized to receive 8‐mg dexamethasone every 8 hours, or placebo, for up to 4 days after surgery. Pain, measured by visual analog scale (VAS), was the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures included length of stay, dysphagia assessments, and complications.

Results

VAS pain scores were similar between steroid and placebo cohorts on postoperative day (POD) 1, 2, and 7 through 21, although they significantly improved in the steroid cohort on POD 3. The steroid cohort also demonstrated a decreased hospital length of stay (median 1 day) and improvement in diet consistency, as measured by the performance status scale on POD 7 through 21. There was no difference in complications between the steroid and placebo cohorts.

Conclusion

Extended perioperative corticosteroids after TORS is safe and may allow earlier improvement in diet consistency and decreased length of hospital stay, although postoperative pain appears minimally affected.

Level of Evidence

1b. Laryngoscope, 127:2558–2564, 2017
Light‐Induced Tuning and Reconfiguration of Nanophotonic Structures
Authors: Makarov Sergey V. , Zalogina Anastasia S. , Tajik Mohammad , Zuev Dmitry A. , Rybin Mikhail V. , Kuchmizhak Aleksandr A. , Juodkazis Saulius , Kivshar Yuri
Published: August 2017

Interaction of light pulses of various durations and intensities with nanoscale photonic structures plays an important role in many applications of nanophotonics for high‐density data storage, ultra‐fast data processing, surface coloring and sensing. A design of optically tunable and reconfigurable structures made from different materials is based on many important physical effects and advances in material science, and it employs the resonant character of light interaction with nanostructures and strong field confinement at the nanoscale. Here we review the recent progress in physics of tunable and reconfigurable nanophotonic structures of different types. We start from low laser intensities that produce weak reversible changes in nanostructures, and then move to the discussion of non‐reversible changes in photonic structures. We focus on three platforms based on metallic, dielectric and hybrid resonant photonic structures such as nanoantennas, nanoparticle oligomers and nanostructured metasurfaces. Main challenges and key advantages of each of the approaches focusing on applications in advanced photonic technologies are also discussed.
Safety of non‐ablative fractional laser for acne scars within 1 month after treatment with oral isotretinoin: A randomized split‐face controlled trial
Authors: Saluja Sandeep S. , Walker Matthew L. , Summers Erika M. , Tristani‐Firouzi Payam , Smart David R.
Published: August 2017

Background and Objective

Based on reports of poor wound healing and scarring, it is currently recommended that patients wait 6 months after completion of oral isotretinoin therapy before the safe initiation of laser treatment. Our aim was to evaluate the safety of non‐ablative fractional laser (NAFL) treatment for acne scars within 1 month after isotretinoin therapy.

Study Design/Methods

This was a randomized split‐face controlled trial involving 10 patients with acne scars who had completed isotretinoin treatment. All patients received three treatments each spaced 4 weeks apart with an erbium‐doped 1550 nm NAFL on one side of the face within 1 month after isotretinoin therapy. The untreated side acted as a control. Wound healing and adverse effects as well as acne scar improvement were evaluated by two blinded dermatologists.

Results

All patients demonstrated normal wound healing post NAFL treatments, and neither hypertrophic scars nor keloids were observed. Acne scar improvement was satisfactory.

Conclusion

NAFL treatment for acne scarring appears to be well tolerated within 1 month of completing isotretinoin treatment. Dermatologists should reevaluate the current recommendation to wait 6 months after isotretinoin treatment for acne scar revision with lasers. Other larger studies are necessary to further challenge this dogma. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:886–890, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hydrocarbon‐Soluble Piperazine‐Containing Dilithium Anionic Initiator for High Cis‐1,4 Isoprene Polymerization
Authors: Schultz Alison R. , Bobade Sachin , Scott Philip J. , Long Timothy E.
Published: August 2017

The synthesis of 1,4‐bis[4‐(1‐phenylethenyl)benzyl] piperazine and subsequent reaction with sec‐butyllithium enables a novel piperazine‐containing difunctional organolithium initiator for the living anionic polymerization of isoprene. Piperazine provides a polar unit within the difunctional initiator, promoting ion dissociation and miscibility with hydrocarbon solvents, and enabling the formation of well‐defined polyisoprene homopolymers with predictable molecular weights and controlled microstructure. In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy monitors the dilithium initiator formation and the anionic polymerization of isoprene, revealing kinetic insight into this synthetic method. Furthermore, sequential monomer addition with styrene affords poly(styrene‐block‐isoprene‐block‐styrene) triblock copolymers with controlled molecular weights and narrow polydispersities. This novel initiator facilitates the synthesis of thermoplastic elastomers with desired cis‐1,4 microstructure in polydienes.
The nasal and gut microbiome in Parkinson's disease and idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Heintz‐Buschart Anna , Pandey Urvashi , Wicke Tamara , Sixel‐Döring Friederike , Janzen Annette , Sittig‐Wiegand Elisabeth , Trenkwalder Claudia , Oertel Wolfgang H. , Mollenhauer Brit , Wilmes Paul
Published: August 2017

Background

Increasing evidence connects the gut microbiota and the onset and/or phenotype of Parkinson's disease (PD). Differences in the abundances of specific bacterial taxa have been reported in PD patients. It is, however, unknown whether these differences can be observed in individuals at high risk, for example, with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, a prodromal condition of α‐synuclein aggregation disorders including PD.

Objectives

To compare microbiota in carefully preserved nasal wash and stool samples of subjects with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, manifest PD, and healthy individuals.

Methods

Microbiota of flash‐frozen stool and nasal wash samples from 76 PD patients, 21 idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder patients, and 78 healthy controls were assessed by 16S and 18S ribosomal RNA amplicon sequencing. Seventy variables, related to demographics, clinical parameters including nonmotor symptoms, and sample processing, were analyzed in relation to microbiome variability and controlled differential analyses were performed.

Results

Differentially abundant gut microbes, such as Akkermansia, were observed in PD, but no strong differences in nasal microbiota. Eighty percent of the differential gut microbes in PD versus healthy controls showed similar trends in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, for example, Anaerotruncus and several Bacteroides spp., and correlated with nonmotor symptoms. Metagenomic sequencing of select samples enabled the reconstruction of genomes of so far uncharacterized differentially abundant organisms.

Conclusion

Our study reveals differential abundances of gut microbial taxa in PD and its prodrome idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder in comparison to the healthy controls, and highlights the potential of metagenomics to identify and characterize microbial taxa, which are enriched or depleted in PD and/or idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder. © 2017 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Distinct metabolomic signature in cerebrospinal fluid in early parkinson's disease
Authors: Trezzi Jean‐Pierre , Galozzi Sara , Jaeger Christian , Barkovits Katalin , Brockmann Kathrin , Maetzler Walter , Berg Daniela , Marcus Katrin , Betsou Fay , Hiller Karsten , Mollenhauer Brit
Published: August 2017

Objective:The purpose of this study was to profile cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from early‐stage PD patients for disease‐related metabolic changes and to determine a robust biomarker signature for early‐stage PD diagnosis.

Methods:By applying a non‐targeted and mass spectrometry‐driven approach, we investigated the CSF metabolome of 44 early‐stage sporadic PD patients yet without treatment (DeNoPa cohort). We compared all detected metabolite levels with those measured in CSF of 43 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls. After this analysis, we validated the results in an independent PD study cohort (Tübingen cohort).

Results:We identified that dehydroascorbic acid levels were significantly lower and fructose, mannose, and threonic acid levels were significantly higher (P < .05) in PD patients when compared with healthy controls. These changes reflect pathological oxidative stress responses, as well as protein glycation/glycosylation reactions in PD. Using a machine learning approach based on logistic regression, we successfully predicted the origin (PD patients vs healthy controls) in a second (n = 18) as well as in a third and completely independent validation set (n = 36). The biomarker signature is composed of the three markers—mannose, threonic acid, and fructose—and allows for sample classification with a sensitivity of 0.790 and a specificity of 0.800.

Conclusion:We identified PD‐specific metabolic changes in CSF that were associated with antioxidative stress response, glycation, and inflammation. Our results disentangle the complexity of the CSF metabolome to unravel metabolome changes related to early‐stage PD. The detected biomarkers help understanding PD pathogenesis and can be applied as biomarkers to increase clinical diagnosis accuracy and patient care in early‐stage PD. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Effects of monthly feedback of VFA measured by dual BIA method in Japanese patients with obesity: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Moriyasu T. , Hosoda K. , Tanaka‐Mizuno S. , Konda M. , Ueshima K. , Ida M. , Nin K.
Published: August 2017

Objective

To investigate the effects of monthly feedback of changes in visceral fat area (VFA) as measured by dual bioelectrical impedance analysis method and the importance of VFA in individuals with obesity.

Methods

Thirty‐eight Japanese patients with obesity underwent VFA measurements. The feedback group was given feedback on VFA measurements each month for 4 months. The control group underwent VFA measurements at the beginning and end of the study but was not informed of the results. All the study participants completed eating behaviour and weight efficacy lifestyle questionnaires.

Results

Mean age was 53.9 (14.3) years; mean body mass index was 30.6 (4.3) kg m−2. At the 4‐month follow‐up, there was no significant difference in VFA reduction between the control and feedback groups (−4.4% vs. −3.0%; 95% CI, −3.8 to 5.5). In post‐hoc analysis using the overall group irrespective of allocation, changes of eating style were significantly associated with a reduction in VFA at 4 months (p = 0.034).

Conclusions

Monthly feedback on changes in VFA does not reduce VFA. More frequent feedback may be required. In post‐hoc analysis, changes of eating style were associated with a reduction in VFA.
Validated Method for Strigolactone Quantification by Ultra High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography – Electrospray Ionisation Tandem Mass Spectrometry Using Novel Deuterium Labelled Standards
Authors: Boutet‐Mercey Stéphanie , Perreau François , Roux Amélie , Clavé Guillaume , Pillot Jean‐Paul , Schmitz‐Afonso Isabelle , Touboul David , Mouille Grégory , Rameau Catherine , Boyer François‐Didier
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Strigolactones (SLs) are important plant hormones. They are difficult to analyse because they occur in very small concentrations especially in comparison with other plant hormones and other substances can interfere with their detection.

Objective

To develop a procedure for the extraction, purification and quantification of SLs from plant roots.

Methodology

Samples were prepared by extraction of plant root tissues with ethyl acetate. Then the extracts were further purified with silica column chromatography. The natural SLs in the final extracts were quantified using novel deuterium labelled SLs. The results of the methodology were compared with those of the procedure of Yoneyama and coworkers.

Results

This procedure required about 1‐g root samples to detect and quantify simultaneously the SLs (orobanchyl acetate and fabacyl acetate) concentration with high reliability.

Conclusion

A method was developed for determining endogenous fabacyl acetate and orobanchyl acetate in plant tissue based on novel deuterium labelled standards. A method of orobanchol quantification using a synthetic SL GR24 as internal standard was proposed. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Visible to NIR absorbing C–N and C–C bonding squaraines: A computational study
Authors: Tripathi Anuj , Dhanda Promila , Prabhakar Chetti
Published: August 2017

We report a comparative computational study of 2 series of molecules with C–N bonding squaraines (NSQ) and C–C bonding squaraines (CSQ), having absorption from visible to near infrared region (350‐800 nm). The NSQ are considered as molecules with break‐in conjugation, and CSQ are considered as molecules with complete conjugation in molecular backbone. The lowest electronic excitations in CSQ molecules are always having around 200 nm red shifted absorption than its corresponding NSQ molecules. The reason for this drastic red shift in CSQ series than NSQ has been systematically studied by density functional theory, time‐dependent density functional theory, and symmetry adopted cluster configuration interaction methods. The CSQ series are showing less charge transfer than NSQ, but having small diradical character. This study may be helpful in design and synthesis of new squaraine dyes, which are useful in materials applications.
Estradiol promotes epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition in human benign prostatic epithelial cells
Authors: Shi Xiaoyu , Peng Yanfei , Du Xiaoling , Liu Haitao , Klocker Helmut , Lin Qimei , Shi Jiandang , Zhang Ju
Published: August 2017

Background

Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is involved in pathogenesis of human benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Estrogenic signaling pathways may stimulate the induction of EMT. However, the details of estradiol (E2) and estrogen receptors (ERs) effects on EMT, as well as E2‐induced modulation of benign prostatic epithelial cell phenotype in vitro have not been completely clarified.

Methods

The effects of E2 on EMT markers and cytokeratins (CKs) expression were evaluated in benign epithelial cell lines BPH‐1 and RWPE‐1, which were cultured both in two‐dimensional (2D) culture and three‐dimensional (3D) culture model using hanging drop technique or 3D Matrigel model. ER antagonist, ICI182,780, was used to confirm the regulatory effects of E2 on EMT and phenotypic modulation. In 3D culture, immunohistochemical stainings were performed to detect the specific phenotype of cells that underwent EMT in acinar‐like spheroids formed by RWPE‐1. To illustrate the exact function of ERs in E2‐induced EMT and phenotypic modulation, specific short interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and agonists were used to knockdown or activate individual ERs, respectively.

Results

E2‐induced EMT was observed both in 2D and 3D culture, with related regulation of EMT markers expression at both mRNA and protein level. In addition, E2 down‐regulated luminal cell type markers CK18 and CK8 and up‐regulated basal cell type markers CK5 and CK14. E2 also increased intermediate type markers CK15 and CK17, while it attenuated CK19 in 3D culture. ICI182,780 blocked E2‐induced EMT and cell phenotypic switching. In 3D Matrigel culture, Vimentin was co‐expressed with ERα and CK17, as well as with SMemb, which is related to cell status switching and proliferation. Knockdown of ERα but not GPR30 inhibited EMT, while ERβ knockdown facilitated EMT process. Knockdown of ERα blocked E2‐induced EMT both in RWPE‐1 and BPH‐1. MRNA expression of EMT markers was stimulated by ERα‐specific agonist PPT and inhibited by ERβ‐specific agonist DPN.

Conclusions

Estrogenic effect mediated by ERα can promote EMT. E2 is also an inductive factor of cell phenotypic switching. Cell type modulation is associated with E2‐induced EMT in benign prostatic epithelial cells. Taken together the results support a contribution of estrogens to the pathogenesis of BPH in elderly men.
The impact of restrictions on neonicotinoid and fipronil insecticides on pest management in maize, oilseed rape and sunflower in eight European Union regions
Authors: Kathage Jonas , Castañera Pedro , Alonso‐Prados José Luis , Gómez‐Barbero Manuel , Rodríguez‐Cerezo Emilio
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

In 2013, the European Commission restricted the use of three neonicotinoids (clothianidin, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam) and the pyrazole fipronil, which are widely used to control early‐season pests. Here, we used original farm survey data to examine the impact of the restrictions on pest management practices in eight regional case studies including maize, oilseed rape and sunflower in seven European Union (EU) countries.

RESULTS

In four case studies, farmers switched to using untreated seeds as no alternative seed treatments were available. In three case studies, farmers switched to using unrestricted neonicotinoid‐ or pyrethroid‐treated seeds. In five case studies, farmers increased the use of soil or foliar treatments, with pyrethroids as the principal insecticide class. Other changes in pest management practices ranged from increased sowing density to more frequent scouting for pests. Many farmers perceived that the time, cost and amount of insecticides required to protect crops increased, along with pest pressure. Alternative seed treatments were mostly perceived as being less effective than the restricted seed treatments.

CONCLUSION

Farmers generally relied on alternative seed treatments or more soil/foliar treatments in the first growing season after the restrictions took effect. Further study is required to assess the effectiveness and sustainability of these alternatives compared with the restricted insecticides. © 2017 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Spectral separability and mapping potential of cassava leaf damage symptoms caused by whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci)
Authors: Sims Neil C , De Barro Paul , Newnham Glenn J , Kalyebi Andrew , Macfadyen Sarina , Malthus Tim J
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

This study examines whether leaf spectra can be used to measure damage to cassava plants from whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), and the potential to translate measurements from leaf to landscape scale in eastern Africa. Symptoms of the cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) and cassava mosaic disease (CMD) viruses, and sooty mould (SM) blackening of lower leaves from whiteflies feeding on the upper leaves, were measured at the leaf scale with a high‐resolution spectroradiometer and a single photon avalanche diode (SPAD) meter, which retrieves relative chlorophyll concentration. Spectral measurements were compared to the five‐level visual scores used to assess the severity of each of the three damaging agents in the field, and also to leaf chemistry data.

RESULTS

Leaves exhibiting severe CBSD and CMD were spectrally indistinguishable from leaves without any symptoms. Severe SM was spectrally distinctive but is likely to be difficult to map because of its occurrence in the lower crown. SPAD measurements were highly correlated with most foliar chemistry measurements and field scores of disease severity. Regression models between simulated Sentinel 2 bands, field scores and SPAD measurements were strongest using wavelengths with high importance weightings in random forest models.

CONCLUSION

SPAD measurements are highly correlated to many foliar chemistry parameters, and should be considered for use in mapping disease severity over larger areas. Remaining challenges for mapping relate to the subtle expression of symptoms, the spatial distribution of disease severity within fields, and the small size and complex structure of the cassava fields themselves. © 2017 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Factors affecting trap catch in pheromone‐based monitoring of saddle gall midge Haplodiplosis marginata (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae)
Authors: Rowley Charlotte , Cherrill Andrew J , Leather Simon R , Hall David R , Pope Tom W
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

The saddle gall midge, Haplodiplosis marginata (von Roser) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), is a pest of cereal crops in Europe. Outbreaks are difficult to predict and effective monitoring tools are required to ensure the effectiveness of pest management options. The female sex pheromone (R)‐2‐nonyl butyrate provides the basis of a highly effective lure for this insect. Here, we demonstrate how the success of this lure can be influenced by parameters such as trap location, lure age, and interference between traps fitted with these lures.

RESULTS

A pheromone lure containing (R)‐2‐nonyl butyrate attracted male midges for at least 9 weeks under field conditions. Pheromone‐baited traps performed best when situated away from field margins and below the height of the crop. Interference between nearby traps was evident at distances <20 m.

CONCLUSION

The results presented here offer new insights into the behavioural responses of male H. marginata to the female sex pheromone and provide practical recommendations for the use of H. marginata pheromone traps in the field. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Uncertainty quantification in theoretical spectroscopy: The structural sensitivity of X‐ray emission spectra
Authors: Oung Sangwar Wadtey , Rudolph Julian , Jacob Christoph R.
Published: August 2017

We present a methodology for analyzing the dependence of molecular spectra calculated with quantum‐chemical methods on the underlying molecular structure. This analysis is applied to investigate the structural sensitivity of calculated valence‐to‐core X‐ray emission (VtC‐XES) spectra for the test case of three iron carbonyl complexes, Fe(CO)5, [FeCp(CO)2(THF)]+ (Cp = cyclopentadienyl, THF = tetrahydrofuran), and Fe(CO)3(cod) (cod = cyclooctadienyl). Based on this analysis, we discuss how the VtC‐XES spectra depend on changes of metal–ligand bond distances and bond angles as well as on the structure of the ligands. The benefits of such an analysis of the structural sensitivity are discussed. Our methodology can serve as a first step toward quantifying and accounting for uncertainties due to the underlying model structure in theoretical spectroscopy.
Effect of hydrogen‐bonded interactions on the energetics and spectral properties of the astromolecule aminoacetonitrile
Authors: Chakraborty Sumana , Lima Bonifácio Coelho de , Silva Arnaldo Machado da , Chaudhuri Puspitapallab
Published: August 2017

A detailed and systematic electronic structure calculation has been performed to analyze the hydrogen‐bonded interaction of aminoacetonitrile (H2NCH2CN) with hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and Glycine (H2NCH2COOH). Both HCN and aminoacetonitrile have already been detected in the interstellar medium (ISM) and their active role in the molecular mechanisms of glycine production has already been recognized. Four different density functional models have been used to study the effect of hydrogen bond formation on the energetic stability and vibrational spectra of the aminoacetonitrile‐HCN and aminoacetonitrile‐glycine complexes in gas phase. The aminoacetonitrile‐glycine dimer is energetically far more stable than all forms of aminoacetonitrile‐HCN dimers. Elastic and inelastic scattering of light off the hydrogen‐bonded clusters have been investigated in details via Rayleigh and Raman spectroscopic parameters. The dipole moments and depolarization ratios are found to be sensitive on the type of hydrogen‐bond network. The mean polarizabilty show appreciable dependence on the choice of the DFT‐model. In general, all the chemical groups (OH, CN, NH2, and CH) that participate directly in the hydrogen bond formation suffer appreciable variation in the intensity of vibration.
Quantum chemical electron impact mass spectrum prediction for de novo structure elucidation: Assessment against experimental reference data and comparison to competitive fragmentation modeling
Authors: Spackman Peter R. , Bohman Björn , Karton Amir , Jayatilaka Dylan
Published: August 2017

We investigate the success of the quantum chemical electron impact mass spectrum (QCEIMS) method in predicting the electron impact mass spectra of a diverse test set of 61 small molecules selected to be representative of common fragmentations and reactions in electron impact mass spectra. Comparison with experimental spectra is performed using the standard matching algorithms, and the relative ranking position of the actual molecule matching the spectra within the NIST‐11 library is examined. We find that the correct spectrum is ranked in the top two matches from structural isomers in more than 50% of the cases. QCEIMS, thus, reproduces the distribution of peaks sufficiently well to identify the compounds, with the RMSD and mean absolute difference between appropriately normalized predicted and experimental spectra being at most 9% and 3% respectively, even though the most intense peaks are often qualitatively poorly reproduced. We also compare the QCEIMS method to competitive fragmentation modeling for electron ionization, a training‐based mass spectrum prediction method, and remarkably we find the QCEIMS performs equivalently or better. We conclude that QCEIMS will be very useful for those who wish to identify new compounds which are not well represented in the mass spectral databases.
Continuous flow reduced‐pressure infrared laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Iguchi Yasunari , Hazama Hisanao , Awazu Kunio
Published: August 2017

Rationale

Continuous flow ionization methods using infrared (IR) lasers have several favorable characteristics, including ionization without any additional matrices and tolerance to contaminants such as detergents and buffer salts. However, poor sensitivity due to low ion‐transfer efficiency from the sample plate to the inlet capillary of the mass spectrometer under atmospheric pressure remains a serious problem.

Methods

We developed a new continuous flow IR laser desorption/ionization (IR‐LDI) method using a frit plate and wavelength‐tunable mid‐IR laser with an optical parametric oscillator. Continuous flow samples were directly injected into the ion source without any additional matrices. The ion source was covered with a decompression chamber, and could vary the pressure of the ion source from 21 to 101 kPa.

Results

Reduction of the pressure of the IR‐LDI source from 101 to 71 kPa increased the signal intensity for the [M + H]+ ion of angiotensin II by 1.8‐fold. On the other hand, the ion signal intensity was reduced at pressures lower than 71 kPa. It became clear that reducing pressure was more effective when ionization occurred with lower laser pulse energy and lower ion source temperature. In addition, signal intensities for the [M + 2H]2+ and [M + 3H]3+ ions of insulin were also increased, by 1.4‐fold and 1.1‐fold, respectively, upon reduction of the pressure to 91 and 81 kPa.

Conclusions

Although many studies have described IR‐LDI using a differential pumping mass spectrometer, the optimal pressure of the ion source has never been investigated. We found that a slight reduction in pressure enhances sensitivity. This knowledge may be applicable to a number of ambient ionization methods using IR lasers.