bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using sulfur stable isotopes to assess mercury bioaccumulation and biomagnification in temperate lake food webs
Authors: Clayden Meredith G. , Lescord Gretchen L. , Kidd Karen A. , Wang Xiaowa , Muir Derek C.G. , O'Driscoll Nelson J.
Published: September 2016

Nitrogen and carbon stable isotopes (δ15N, δ13C) are commonly used to understand mercury (Hg) bioaccumulation and biomagnification in freshwater food webs. Though sulfur isotopes (δ34S) can distinguish between energy sources from the water column (aqueous sulfate) and from sediments to freshwater organisms, little is known about whether δ34S can help interpret variable Hg concentrations in aquatic species or food webs. Seven acidic lakes in Kejimkujik National Park (Nova Scotia, Canada) were sampled for biota, water, and sediments in 2009 and 2010. Fishes, zooplankton, and macroinvertebrates were analyzed for δ34S, δ15N, δ13C, and Hg (methyl Hg in invertebrates, total Hg in fishes); aqueous sulfate and profundal sediments were analyzed for δ34S. Within lakes, mean δ34S values in sediments and sulfate differed between 0.53‰ and 1.98‰, limiting their use as tracers of energy sources to the food webs. However, log-Hg and δ34S values were negatively related (slopes –0.14 to –0.35, R2 0.20–0.39, p < 0.001–0.01) through each food web, and slopes were significantly different among lakes (analysis of covariance, lake × δ34S interaction term p = 0.04). Despite these relationships, multiple regression analyses within each taxon showed that biotic Hg concentrations were generally better predicted by δ15N and/or δ13C. The results indicate that δ34S values are predictive of Hg concentrations in these food webs, although the mechanisms underlying these relationships warrant further study. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:661–670. © 2016 SETAC
Strategies for Dimensioning Two‐Wheeled Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicles Using Numerical Analysis Software
Authors: De Luca D. , Fragiacomo P. , De Lorenzo G. , Czarnetzki W. T. , Schneider W.
Published: September 2016

Owing to the limitation of fossil fuels and high consumption and pollution for transportation, the vehicle industry is looking for other sources of energy. A fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle (FCHEV) could be a suitable solution considering the state of the art of main components. This paper presents the simulation of powertrains for FCHEVs in order to dimension the fuel cell (FC) as primary source of energy and to investigate the power flows during both motoring and recuperative braking. For this purpose a Matlab/Simulink® model has been built up which can be used for a wide range of applications. The results of simulation show which is the best powertrain configuration for two‐wheeled vehicles in three different cases: a bike in which the traction force is provided by both electric motor and the pedaling of the cyclist, a bike in which the traction force is provided only by an electric motor without pedaling and a motorcycle for 2 passengers. Specifically, the consumption, the state of charge (SOC) of battery and the amount of energy generated by each source of energy have been monitored. The model validation was done by comparison between the obtained results and scientific articles in the literature.
Meta‐analysis of randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials of melatonin in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Yuan‐Yuan , Zheng Wei , Ng Chee H. , Ungvari Gabor S. , Wei Wei , Xiang Yu‐Tao
Published: September 2016

Objective

This is a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the efficacy of melatonin in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Both English (PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, Cochrane Library databases, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register) and Chinese (WanFang Database, Chinese Biomedical Database, and China Journal Net) databases were systematically and independently searched by two authors from their inception until 1 March 2016. Weighted and standard mean differences (SMDs), risk ratio (RR) ±95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. In all cases, the random effects model was used.

Results

Seven studies (n = 462) with the duration ranging from 10 days to 24 weeks were identified and analyzed. AD patients receiving melatonin treatment showed prolonged total sleep time at night (n = 305; SMD: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.51, I2 = 9%, p = 0.04). Melatonin did not improve cognitive abilities assessed by the mini‐mental state examination and the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Cognitive Subscale. The discontinuation rate was similar between the melatonin and placebo groups (n = 453, RR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.51 to 1.16, I2 = 0%, p = 0.21).

Conclusion

Melatonin appears to be effective and safe in improving sleep quality in patients with AD. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of Multilevel Signals on Sex Discrimination Experiences Among Female Employees
Authors: Yong Kim Kyoung , Elkins Longacre Teri , Werner Steve
Published: September 2016

In this study, we examine the effect of organizational‐level and individual‐level signals on sex discrimination experiences, job satisfaction, and turnover intentions in a sample of South Korean female employees and organizations. Results indicate that the percentage of women employed in organizations was negatively associated with sex discrimination experienced by women. The number of family‐friendly policies was also negatively associated with sex discrimination in a panel design but not in a cross‐sectional design. We also found that the relationship between individual participation in development activities (e.g., leadership development course, academic degree) and sex discrimination experiences was moderated by organizational‐level participation in development activities. Specifically, the negative impact of participation in development activities on sex discrimination is stronger for individuals in organizations with lower compared to higher levels of overall participation. The same was true for the individual educational level. The negative impact of individual educational level on sex discrimination is stronger for individuals in organizations with high educational level than for those in low organizational educational level. Further, experienced sex discrimination influences individual turnover intention via job satisfaction. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mass transport triggered by heavy rainfall: the role of endorheic basins and epikarst in a regional karst aquifer
Authors: Fidelibus Maria Dolores , Balacco Gabriella , Gioia Andrea , Iacobellis Vito , Spilotro Giuseppe
Published: September 2016

This study aims at recognizing the mechanisms of mass transport between the karst surface and the saturated zone in a morphostructural relief of the Mesozoic karst carbonate platform of Murgia (Puglia, Southern Italy). The large dimension of the karst aquifer, the regional scale of the flow system, the boundary condition constituted by the sea, and the lack of freshwater springs constrain to the use of wells as monitoring points and limit the study area to the recharge area comprising 986 endorheic basins. The concentrations of non‐reactive tracers (nitrates) in the waters of autogenic recharge (from endorheic basins) have been modeled through the evaluation of effective infiltration, land use, and nitrogen surplus, with reference to a time window, which includes a low precipitation period followed by significant rainfall events. The comparison between the modeled nitrate concentrations and the nitrate concentrations measured in ground waters, coupled with the analysis of groundwater chemograms and records of hydraulic heads (all referred to the same time window), allows inferring the mechanism of mass transport between the karst surface and the groundwater table. The mass transport conceptual model requires the presence of the epikarst. The infiltration of significant rainfall in the endorheic basins after a low precipitation period displaces waters stored in the epikarst toward the saturated zone. Ground waters in the post‐event period show higher concentrations of nitrates, lower concentrations of total organic carbon, and higher Mg/Ca ratios than both those of the pre‐event period and the autumn‐winter recharge period. The post‐event recharge from epikarst storage determines a transient hazard of groundwater pollution with a time lag from the occurrence of the heavy rainfall.
Low‐level laser therapy stimulates bone metabolism and inhibits root resorption during tooth movement in a rodent model
Authors: Suzuki Selly Sayuri , Garcez Aguinaldo Silva , Suzuki Hideo , Ervolino Edilson , Moon Won , Ribeiro Martha Simões
Published: September 2016

This study evaluated the biological effects of low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) on bone remodeling, tooth displacement and root resorption, occurred during the orthodontic tooth movement. Upper first molars of a total of sixty‐eight male rats were subjected to orthodontic tooth movement and euthanized on days 3, 6, 9, 14 and 21 days and divided as negative control, control and LLLT group. Tooth displacement and histomorphometric analysis were performed in all animals; scanning electron microscopy analysis was done on days 3, 6 and 9, as well as the immunohistochemistry analysis of RANKL/OPG and TRAP markers. Volumetric changes in alveolar bone were analyzed using MicroCT images on days 14 and 21. LLLT influenced bone resorption by increasing the number of TRAP‐positive osteoclasts and the RANKL expression at the compression side. This resulted in less alveolar bone and hyalinization areas on days 6, 9 and 14. LLLT also induced less bone volume and density, facilitating significant acceleration of tooth movement and potential reduction in root resorption besides stimulating bone formation at the tension side by enhancing OPG expression, increasing trabecular thickness and bone volume on day 21. Taken together, our results indicate that LLLT can stimulate bone remodeling reducing root resorption in a rat model.

LLLT improves tooth movement via bone formation and bone resorption in a rat model.

magnified image

LLLT improves tooth movement via bone formation and bone resorption in a rat model.
The chemokines secretion and the oxidative stress are targets of low‐level laser therapy in allergic lung inflammation
Authors: Costa Carvalho Jorge Luis , de Brito Auriléia Aparecida , de Oliveira Ana Paula Ligeiro , de Castro Faria Neto Hugo Caire , Pereira Thiago Martini , de Carvalho Regiane Albertini , Anatriello Elen , Aimbire Flávio
Published: September 2016

Recent studies show that low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) has an important anti‐inflammatory action in acute lung inflammation. The present work explored if laser therapy is able to antagonize eosinophils and allergic inflammation induced by oxidative stress in Balb/c mice. Forty‐eight hours after challenge, the leukocyte counting, ROS and nitrite/nitrate level, RANTES, CCL3, CCL8 as well as eotaxins were measured in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of laser‐treated mice or not. Into the lung, some chemokines receptors, the iNOS activity and mRNA expression, and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, gluthatione, NADPH oxidase activities and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (T‐Bars) were measured. Laser‐treated allergic mice presented reduction of both the ICAM‐1 and eosinophil in the lungs. RANTES, CCL8, CCL3 and eotaxins were reduced in BALF of laser‐treated allergic mice. In allergic mice lung LLLT decreased the CCR1 and CCR3 and restored the oxidative stress balance as well. Laser decreased the lipidic peroxidation in allergic mice lung as much as increased SOD, GPx and GR. It shows that LLLT on allergic lung inflammation involves leukocyte‐attractant chemokines and endogenous antioxidant. Based on results, LLLT may ultimately become a non‐ invasive option in allergic lung disease treatment.

The top figure illustrates the laser decreasing the eosinophils migration into BALF and the bottom figure shows the laser upregulating the expression of heme‐oxygenase (anti‐oxidant enzyme) in lung tissue anti‐oxidant.

magnified image

The top figure illustrates the laser decreasing the eosinophils migration into BALF and the bottom figure shows the laser upregulating the expression of heme‐oxygenase (anti‐oxidant enzyme) in lung tissue anti‐oxidant.
Prediction of Bone Mineral Density and Fragility Fracture by Genetic Profiling
Authors: Ho-Le Thao P , Center Jacqueline R , Eisman John A , Nguyen Hung T , Nguyen Tuan V
Published: September 2016

Although the susceptibility to fracture is partly determined by genetic factors, the contribution of newly discovered genetic variants to fracture prediction is still unclear. This study sought to define the predictive value of a genetic profiling for fracture prediction. Sixty-two bone mineral density (BMD)-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped in 557 men and 902 women who had participated in the Dubbo Osteoporosis Epidemiology Study. The incidence of fragility fracture was ascertained from X-ray reports between 1990 and 2015. Femoral neck BMD was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A weighted polygenic risk score (genetic risk score [GRS]) was created as a function of the number of risk alleles and their BMD-associated regression coefficients for each SNP. The association between GRS and fracture risk was assessed by the Cox proportional hazards model. Individuals with greater GRS had lower femoral neck BMD (p < 0.01), but the variation in GRS accounted for less than 2% of total variance in BMD. Each unit increase in GRS was associated with a hazard ratio of 1.20 (95% CI, 1.04 to 1.38) for fracture, and this association was independent of age, prior fracture, fall, and in a subset of 33 SNPs, independent of femoral neck BMD. The significant association between GRS and fracture was observed for the vertebral and wrist fractures, but not for hip fracture. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) for the model with GRS and clinical risk factors was 0.71 (95% CI, 0.68 to 0.74). With GRS, the correct reclassification of fracture versus nonfracture ranged from 12% for hip fracture to 23% for wrist fracture. A genetic profiling of BMD- associated genetic variants could improve the accuracy of fracture prediction over and above that of clinical risk factors alone, and help stratify individuals by fracture status. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The tipping point: The critical role of therapeutic apheresis in a case of refractory acquired hemophilia
Authors: Losos Michael , Scrape Scott , Joshi Sarita , Shmookler Aaron , Chen Jian
Published: September 2016

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a rare autoimmune disorder that leads to factor VIII (FVIII) deficiency via autoantibody formation. Standard treatment options include FVIII bypassing factors and immunosuppression. However, the role of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is not clear in the treatment of AHA. We present a case of idiopathic AHA in a 66 year old female with severe bleeding and a FVIII inhibitor of 17.6 Bethesda units (BU). She failed to respond to standard treatment including maximum dose of recombinant FVIIa (rFVIIa), rituximab, and other immunosuppressive agents. Her FVIII inhibitor rapidly increased to 140 BU and FVIII was below 5%. TPE was initiated 3 weeks after admission and her bleeding stabilized after the first treatment and completely stopped after three treatments. Repeat testing revealed increased FVIII to 15% and FVIII inhibitor decreased to 2.0 BU. After an additional TPE treatment, her FVIII increased to 27% and FVIII inhibitor decreased to 0.6 BU and she was discharged without bleeding 40 days after admission. In this case, TPE played a critical role in reducing FVIII inhibitor, which resulted in a recovery of FVIII activity and hemostasis. Therefore, TPE should be initiated early in AHA patients with bleeding and high titer of FVIII inhibitor.
Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (hTERT) Positively Regulates 26S Proteasome Activity
Authors: Im Eunju , Yoon Jong Bok , Lee Han‐Woong , Chung Kwang Chul
Published: September 2016

Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is the catalytic subunit of telomerase, an RNA‐dependent DNA polymerase that elongates telomeric DNA. hTERT displays several extra‐telomeric functions that are independent of its telomere‐regulatory function, including tumor progression, and neuronal cell death regulation. In this study, we evaluated these additional hTERT non‐telomeric functions. We determined that hTERT interacts with several 19S and 20S proteasome subunits. The 19S regulatory particle and 20S core particle are part of 26S proteasome complex, which plays a central role in ubiquitin‐dependent proteolysis. In addition, hTERT positively regulated 26S proteasome activity independent of its enzymatic activity. Moreover, hTERT enhanced subunit interactions, which may underlie hTERT's ability of hTERT to stimulate the 26S proteasome. Furthermore, hTERT displayed cytoprotective effect against ER stress via the activation of 26S proteasome in acute myeloid leukemia cells. Our data suggest that hTERT acts as a novel chaperone to promote 26S proteasome assembly and maintenance. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2083–2093, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Review of membranes in microfluidics
Authors: Chen Xueye , Shen Jienan
Published: September 2016

This review reports the progress on the recent development of membranes in microfluidics. First of all, the definition and basic concepts of membranes are given. Second, the manufacturing methods of membranes in microfluidics are illustrated and discussed. And lastly, the applications of membranes in microfluidics that are the focus of this work are discussed including cells, proteins, microreactors, gas detection, drug screening, electrokinetical fluids, pump and valve and fluid transport control, chemical reagents detection and so on. A variety of microfluidic devices designed containing membranes are expounded and analyzed. This paper will provide a valuable reference to designers who research membranes and microfluidics for various applications. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Morphology of the intralobular duct of the submandibular gland in rats in case of experimental diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kotyk Taras
Published: September 2016

The objective of study is to study the peculiarities of morphological changes in different subdivisions of the intralobular duct of the submandibular gland (SMG) in rats in case of experimental diabetes mellitus (DM). The study included sexually mature male Wistar rats. Experimental DM was induced by streptozotocin. Electron microscopic study of subdivisions of the intralobular duct of the SMG was carried out on the 14th, 28th, 42nd, 56th, and 70th days of the experiment. In early stages of experimental DM the intercalated ducts are characterized by a relatively unchanged structure, and in late stages vacuolization of the cytoplasm of their epithelial cells is observed. Since the 14th day vacuolization of mitochondria is observed in epithelial cells of the granular ducts being the most pronounced on the 28th day and not apparent over the subsequent periods. The degree of filling with granules reduces till 56th day, however, it increases sligthly on the last day of the experiment. On the 28th–70th days vacuolization of the cytoplasm is observed in epithelial cells of the striated ducts. In addition, on the 14th day the mitochondrial matrix of these cells condenses; over the next periods it becomes enlightened and mitochondrial cristae are clearly visualized and disorganized. Conclusion: In the intralobular duct of the SMG in experimental DM dystrophic changes of different intensity occur in the granular and striated ducts on the 14th day and in the intercalated ducts only since the 42nd day of the experiment.
A Density Turán Theorem
Authors: Narins Lothar , Tran Tuan
Published: September 2016

Let F be a graph that contains an edge whose deletion reduces its chromatic number. For such a graph F, a classical result of Simonovits from 1966 shows that every graph on vertices with more than edges contains a copy of F. In this article we derive a similar theorem for multipartite graphs. For a graph H and an integer , let be the minimum real number such that every ℓ‐partite graph whose edge density between any two parts is greater than contains a copy of H. Our main contribution in this article is to show that for all sufficiently large if and only if H admits a vertex‐coloring with colors such that all color classes but one are independent sets, and the exceptional class induces just a matching. When H is a complete graph, this recovers a result of Pfender (Combinatorica 32 (2012), 483–495). We also consider several extensions of Pfender's result.
Synthesis and Reactivity of 3‐oxoprop‐1‐en‐1‐olate Derivative as a Building Block for the Synthesis of Azole and Azine Derivatives
Authors: Khalil Mohamed A. , Raslan Mohamed A. , Sayed Samia M.
Published: September 2016

Several new heterocyclic compounds such as 7‐substituted pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine (5a–e) derivatives have been synthesized by the reactions of the versatile unreported sodium 3‐(4‐methyl‐2‐(4‐methylphenylsulfonamido)thiazol‐5‐yl)‐3‐oxoprop‐1‐en‐1‐olate (2) with amino heterocyclic (3a–e) derivatives. Reaction of (2) with hydrazonyl halide (7a–d) and hydroximoyl chloride (11a,b) derivatives followed by reaction with hydrazine hydrate afforded pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyridazine and isoxazolo[3,4‐d]pyridazine derivatives, respectively incorporating a thiazole moiety have been described. All newly synthesized compounds were elucidated by considering the data of both elemental and spectral analysis.
Antennal sensilla and their nerve innervation in first‐instar nymphs of Porphyrophora sophorae Arch. (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Margarodidae)
Authors: Wang Xu , Xie Yingping , Zhang Yanfeng , Liu Weimin
Published: September 2016

ABSTRACT Porphyrophora (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha: Margarodidae) is a genus of soil‐inhabiting scale insects. The antennal sensilla and their innervation in the first‐instar nymphs of Porphyrophora sophorae were studied using light microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy to understand the function of these sensilla and determine the sensillar innervation feature on these small antennae. The results show that the six‐segmented antennae of these nymphs have 20–23 sensilla which can be morphologically classified into seven types, for example, one Böhm's bristle (Bb), one campaniform sensillum (Ca), one Johnston's organ (Jo), 13–16 aporous sensilla trichodea (St), two coeloconic sensilla (Co), one straight multiporous peg (Mp1), and one curvy multiporous peg (Mp2). According to their function, these sensilla can be categorized into three categories: mechanoreceptors, that is, Bb, Ca, Jo, and St; thermo/hygroreceptors, that is, Co only; and chemoreceptors, that is, Mp1 and Mp2. The dendrites that innervate the Mp1, Mp2, and Co sensilla combine to form a large nerve tract (NT1) in the antennal lumen. Because NT1 extends through and out of the antenna, the somata of these neurons are present in the lymph cavity of the insect's head. The dendrites that innervate the mechanoreceptors form another nerve tract (NT2). The somata of these neurons are located inside the scape and pedicel. J. Morphol. 277:1631–1647, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiparametric MRI findings of sinonasal rhabdomyosarcoma in adults with comparison to carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xinyan , Song Liyuan , Chong Vincent , Wang Yongzhe , Li Jing , Xian Junfang
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To identify magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of sinonasal rhabdomyosarcoma in adults, including diffusion‐weighted (DW) and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI features as compared with carcinomas.

Materials and Methods

Sixty‐four patients were included in this study, including 12 sinonasal rhabdomyosarcomas and 52 sinonasal carcinomas. MRI was completed in all 64 patients with a 3T MR scanner. Conventional MR (nonenhanced and static contrast‐enhanced) imaging features, DCE‐MRI parameters, and the apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) were analyzed by two authors independently (X.Y.W. and Y.Z.W.).

Results

Compared with gray matter, sinonasal rhabdomyosarcomas appeared isointense onT1‐weighted images in 11 cases (91.7%, 11 of 12), and hyperintense onT2‐weighted images in 9 patients (75%, 9 of 12). After contrast, sinonasal rhabdomyosarcomas showed inhomogeneous enhancement in 10 cases (83.3%, 10 of 12). Skull involvement was found in eight patients (66.7%) with rhabdomyosarcomas. OnT2‐weighted images, sinonasal carcinomas demonstrated isointense in 31 cases (59.6%, 31/52), hyperintense in 14 (26.9%, 14/52), and hypointense in 7 (13.5%, 7/52). Skull involvement was detected in 14 cases (14/52, 26.9%). There were significant differences inT2signal intensity (P = 0.005) and skull involvement (P = 0.016) between sinonasal rhabdomyosarcoma and carcinomas. There was a marginal difference in time to peak enhancement (P = 0.061), while no difference in time to maximum enhancement (P = 0.403), maximum contrast index (P = 0.368), and time–intensity curve types (P = 0.138) between rhabdomyosarcoma and carcinomas. The ADCs of sinonasal rhabdomyosarcoma were significantly lower than those of sinonasal carcinomas (P< 0.001).

Conclusion

A multiparametric approach using conventional MRI with added ADCs had the potential to improve the diagnostic accuracy of sinonasal rhabdomyosarcoma in adults.

Evidence level:4

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:998–1004
Placement of transnasal drainage catheter and covered esophageal stent for the treatment of perforated esophageal carcinoma with mediastinal abscess
Authors: Han Xinwei , Zhao Yan Shi , Fang Yi , Qi Yu , Li Xiangnan , Jiao Dechao , Ren Kewei , Wu Gang
Published: September 2016

Background and Objectives

Perforated esophageal carcinoma with mediastinal abscess is a clinically life‐threatening emergency. Herein, we summarize our experience with placement of transnasal drainage catheters and covered esophageal stents for the treatment of this condition.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed the medical records of 20 patients who were treated using our intervention protocol. Patients received local anesthesia and sedation prior to transnasal drainage catheter placement into the mediastinal abscess, which was followed by esophageal stent placement. Once the fluid was completely drained and the abscess was completely closed, the drainage catheter was removed.

Results

The placement of the drainage catheter and stent was successful in all patients. The drainage catheter was successfully removed from the mediastinum after 7–60 days in 14 patients. During the follow‐up of 1–18 months, six patients died from hemorrhage, eight from cancer progression or pulmonary infection, one from atrial fibrillation, and one from asphyxia caused by tracheal compression. The remaining four patients can eat normally.

Conclusions

Placement of transnasal drainage catheters and covered esophageal stents may be an appropriate palliative therapy for patients with perforated esophageal carcinoma with mediastinal abscess who are not candidates for surgery or have a high postoperative risk. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:725–730. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Graphene‐based pipette tip solid‐phase extraction with ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry for the analysis of carbamate pesticide residues in fruit juice
Authors: Shi Zhihong , Li Qi , Xu Dan , Huai Qingru , Zhang Hongyi
Published: September 2016

Graphene‐based pipette tip solid‐phase extraction was combined with ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry for the determination of carbamate pesticide residues in fruit juice samples. Four milligrams of graphene was used as sorbent material to pack a 1000 μL pipette tip for the extraction of pirimicarb, propoxur, isoprocarb, fenobucarb, and diethofencarb from 3 mL of fruit juice sample. The whole extraction process was finished in 12 min, and the volume of eluent used was only 1.5 mL. Under the optimized conditions, good linear relationship (R > 0.999) and lower limits of detection (0.0022–0.033 ng/mL) were achieved. The recoveries at three spiked levels ranged from 80.90 to 124.60% with relative standard deviations less than 4.88%. Compared with commercially available sorbents including propylsulfonic acid silica, graphitized carbon black, and C18, graphene was superior in extraction efficiency. The proposed method is simple, rapid, sensitive, selective, and solvent saving.
The mixed BVP for second order nonlinear ordinary differential equation at resonance
Authors: Mukhigulashvili Sulkhan
Published: September 2016

Efficient sufficient conditions are established for the solvability of the mixed problem
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201500247:mana201500247-math-0001where in the case where the homogeneous linear problem has nontrivial solutions.
Exploiting agonist biased signaling of chemokines to target cancer
Authors: Roy Ishan , Getschman Anthony E. , Volkman Brian F. , Dwinell Michael B.
Published: September 2016

As knowledge of growth‐independent functions of cancer cells is expanding, exploration into the role of chemokines in modulating cancer pathogenesis, particularly metastasis, continues to develop. However, more study into the mechanisms whereby chemokines direct the migration of cancer cells is needed before specific therapies can be generated to target metastasis. Herein, we draw attention to the longstanding conundrum in the field of chemokine biology that chemokines stimulate migration in a biphasic manner; and explore this phenomenon's impact on chemokine function in the context of cancer. Typically, low concentrations of chemokines lead to chemotactic migration and higher concentrations halt migration. The signaling mechanisms that govern this phenomenon remain unclear. Over the last decade, we have defined a novel signaling mechanism for regulation of chemokine migration through ligand oligomerization and biased agonist signaling. We provide insight into this new paradigm for chemokine signaling and discuss how it will impact future exploration into chemokine function and biology. In the pursuit of producing more novel cancer therapies, we suggest a framework for pharmaceutical application of the principles of chemokine oligomerization and biased agonist signaling in cancer. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Corpus Callosum Splenium Sign in Fragile X‐Associated Tremor Ataxia Syndrome
Authors: Hall Deborah A. , Hermanson Meghan , Dunn Emily , Stebbins Glenn , Merkitch Douglas , Ouyang Bichun , Berry‐Kravis Elizabeth , Jhaveri Miral
Published: September 2016

Background

Hyperintensities in the splenium of the corpus callosum (CCS) have been proposed as a radiographic diagnostic criterion for fragile X‐associated tremor ataxia syndrome (FXTAS).

Methods

Magnetic resonance images from patients with FXTAS and from nonpremutation carriers with movement disorders were viewed by a radiologist who was blinded to gene status, and radiographic criteria for FXTAS were scored. Phenotypic data used for diagnosis of FXTAS also were collected.

Results

Twenty‐two patients with FXTAS and 23 controls were included. Hyperintensity in the CCS (the CCS sign) was more common in men with FXTAS versus controls (87% vs. 40%) but not in women with FXTAS (100% vs. 50% in controls). The CCS sign had higher sensitivity compared with the middle cerebellar peduncle sign (white matter lesions in middle cerebellar peduncle) in both men (0.87 vs. 0.67) and women (1 vs. 0.29) with FXTAS, but it had lower specificity in both men (0.6 vs. 0.8) and women (0.5 vs. 1).

Conclusions

The CCS sign is common in patients with FXTAS, but it is not significantly more prevalent in women with FXTAS compared with controls. This may be due to small sample sizes in the current study. Other signs, such as brainstem white matter disease, were more common in women with FXTAS and differed from those in men with FXTAS. This finding suggests that additional studies evaluating the diagnostic criteria for FXTAS need to be conducted, ideally with neuropathological confirmation of the disease.
Quaternion Fourier and linear canonical inversion theorems
Authors: Hu Xiao‐Xiao , Kou Kit Ian
Published: September 2016

The quaternion Fourier transform (QFT) is one of the key tools in studying color image processing. Indeed, a deep understanding of the QFT has created the color images to be transformed as whole, rather than as color separated component. In addition, understanding the QFT paves the way for understanding other integral transform, such as the quaternion fractional Fourier transform, quaternion linear canonical transform, and quaternion Wigner–Ville distribution. The aim of this paper is twofold: first to provide some of the theoretical background regarding the quaternion bound variation function. We then apply it to derive the quaternion Fourier and linear canonical inversion formulas. Secondly, to provide some in tuition for how the quaternion Fourier and linear canonical inversion theorems work on the absolutely integrable function space. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analyses of EMI functions on meiotic maturation of porcine oocytes
Authors: Fujioka Yoshie A. , Onuma Asuka , Fujii Wataru , Sugiura Koji , Naito Kunihiko
Published: September 2016

Cyclin B (CCNB) accumulation is essential for regulating maturation/M‐phase promoting factor activity during vertebrate oocyte maturation. Anaphase‐promoting‐complex/cyclosome (APC/C) degrades CCNB, allowing the cell cycle to progress; this complex is inhibited by Early mitotic inhibitors 1 and 2 (EMI1 and EMI2). The involvement of both EMI proteins in meiotic maturation has been reported in Xenopus and mouse oocytes, although a recent study described a marked difference in their respective function during meiotic resumption. Mouse is currently the only mammal in which the contribution of EMI to the oocyte maturation has been analyzed, so we used RNA injection methods to overexpress and knock down EMI1 and EMI2 to investigate their roles during porcine oocyte maturation. Up‐regulation of either porcine EMI promoted precocious germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) with early CCNB1 accumulation in oocytes—which is consistent with their activities in mouse but not Xenopus oocytes. Knockdown of EMI1, but not EMI2, delayed GVBD and meiotic progression of oocytes from GVBD to meiotic metaphase I (MI). In contrast, knockdown of EMI2, but not EMI1, released oocytes from meiotic metaphase II (MII) arrest to produce a pronucleus. When injected oocytes were parthenogenetically activated, the up‐regulation of EMI2, but not EMI1, prevented pronucleus formation. These results point to the similarities and differences of porcine EMI function with those of mouse versus Xenopus EMI, and generally contribute to our understanding of EMI function during mammalian oocyte maturation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 983–992, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Subcutaneous versus intravenous immunoglobulin for chronic autoimmune neuropathies: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Racosta Juan M. , Sposato Luciano A. , Kimpinski Kurt
Published: September 2016

Introduction: High‐dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is an evidence‐based treatment for multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Recently, subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SC‐Ig) has received increasing attention. Methods: We performed a meta‐analysis of reports of efficacy and safety of SC‐Ig versus IVIg for inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathies. Results: A total of 8 studies comprising 138 patients (50 with MMN and 88 with chronic CIDP) were included in the meta‐analysis. There were no significant differences in muscle strength outcomes in MMN and CIDP with Sc‐Ig (MMN: effect size [ES] = 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] = ‐0.31‐1.61; CIDP: ES = 0.84, 95% CI = ‐0.01‐1.69). Additionally SC‐Ig had a 28% reduction in relative risk (RR) of moderate and/or systemic adverse effects (95% CI = 0.11‐0.76). Conclusions: The efficacy of SC‐Ig is similar to IVIg for CIDP and MMN and has a significant safety profile. Muscle Nerve 55: 802–809, 2017
Late‐onset pompe disease in Iran: A clinical and genetic report
Authors: Nazari Ferdos , Sinaei Farnaz , Nilipour Yalda , Fatehi Farzad , Streubel Berthold , Ashrafi Mahmoud Reza , Aryani Omid , Nafissi Shahriar
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Pompe disease is characterized by absence or deficiency of acid α‐glucosidase, and several causative mutations are known. In this study we report clinical and laboratory data in Iranian patients with late‐onset Pompe disease (LOPD), focusing on population‐specific mutations.

Methods

Clinical and laboratory data of 14 patients from 10 families with the diagnosis of LOPD were recorded. All had reduced enzyme activity on dried blood spot (DBS) analysis. Genetic investigation was performed to identify the underlying mutations.

Results

The age of onset ranged from <2 to 38 years. The clinical presentations were heterogeneous. Two siblings presented with foot drop. The most common mutation was c.(‐32‐13T>G). There were 4 novel mutations: c.(2040 + 2dup); c.(1650delG); c.(1837T>G); and c.(2596delG).

Conclusion

This is a comprehensive report of LOPD in Iranian patients. Distinct phenotypic and genotypic features in this population are highlighted. Muscle Nerve 55: 835–840, 2017
Preparation and characterization of polyimides containing triaryl imidazole side groups
Authors: Rafiee Zahra , Rasekh Maryam
Published: September 2016

A novel triaryl imidazole‐containing diamine, 3,5‐diamino‐N‐(4‐(4,5‐diphenyl‐1H‐imidazol)phenyl)benzamide, was successfully synthesized via the condensation of 4‐(4,5‐diphenyl‐1H‐imidazol)benzenamine and 3,5‐dinitrobenzoyl chloride, followed by reduction of the dinitro compound. A series of new aromatic polyimides with pendent triaryl imidazole moieties were prepared from the reaction of this diamine with various tetracarboxylic dianhydrides by a conventional two‐step polymerization process via thermal and chemical imidizations. The polyimides were obtained in quantitative yields with inherent viscosities of 0.21–0.44 dL/g. All the polymers are readily soluble in polar organic solvents. Flexible and strong films of polyimides were obtained by solution casting. The glass transition temperature of these polymers was in the range of 261–264°C. They were fairly stable up to a temperature around 300°C and lost 10% weight at 408°C under nitrogen. The ultraviolet–visible absorption spectra showed that all of the polymers had absorption maxima around 320 nm with a fluorescence emission maxima around 388–407 nm in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone solution. Cyclic voltammograms of the polyimides revealed an oxidation wave with a peak around 1.7 V. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does socioeconomic status impact physical activity and sleep among children with cancer?
Authors: Orsey Andrea D. , Wakefield Dorothy B.
Published: September 2016

Background

Compared with healthy children, pediatric oncology patients have impaired sleep and engage in less physical activity (PA). Socioeconomic status (SES) may be one determinant of PA and sleep among pediatric oncology patients.

Procedure

Between November 12, 2009 and March 27, 2013, 50 pediatric oncology patients between the ages of 8 and 18 years were recruited from an urban children's hospital. PA and sleep were assessed by actigraphy and diaries over 7 days. Fatigue was assessed using the Fatigue Scale. SES was defined by primary payer status of insurance (state or private) and by Median Household Income (MHI) obtained from 2010 U.S. Census block data for residences. MHI was compared to Connecticut state median income ($67,000). Multivariate regression models examined the relationship between SES and PA, sleep and fatigue.

Results

PA and sleep efficiency were strongly correlated (r = 0.31, P = 0.03). Children with state insurance had higher average PA (P = 0.004) than children on private insurance. There were no significant differences in PA or sleep efficiency by block MHI. The 7‐day fatigue score was lower among the participants aged 8–12 years in the group with MHI less than $67,000 (P = 0.03), although there was no significant difference among participants aged 13–18 years in the group. There was no difference in mean fatigue scores by insurance status.

Conclusions

Participants on state insurance had higher PA than those with private insurance. Although block MHI did not influence PA or sleep efficiency among children with cancer, participants aged 8–12 years in a lower MHI block had less fatigue. Future research is needed to further understand how SES influences PA.
Global transcriptome dysregulation in second trimester fetuses with FMR1 expansions
Authors: Zwemer Lillian M. , Nolin Sarah L. , Okamoto Patricia M. , Eisenberg Marcia , Wick Heather C. , Bianchi Diana W.
Published: September 2016

Objective

We tested the hypothesis that FMR1 expansions would result in global gene dysregulation as early as the second trimester of human fetal development.

Method

Using cell‐free fetal RNA obtained from amniotic fluid supernatant and expression microarrays, we compared RNA levels in samples from fetuses with premutation or full mutation allele expansions with control samples.

Results

We found clear signals of differential gene expression relating to a variety of cellular functions, including ubiquitination, mitochondrial function, and neuronal/synaptic architecture. Additionally, among the genes showing differential gene expression, we saw links to related diseases of intellectual disability and motor function. Finally, within the unique molecular phenotypes established for each mutation set, we saw clear signatures of mitochondrial dysfunction and disrupted neurological function. Patterns of differential gene expression were very different in male and female fetuses with premutation alleles.

Conclusion

These results support a model for which genetic misregulation during fetal development may set the stage for late clinical manifestations of FMR1‐related disorders. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel, multiplexed targeted mass spectrometry assay for quantification of complement factor H (CFH) variants and CFH‐related proteins 1–5 in human plasma
Authors: Zhang Pingbo , Zhu Min , Geng‐Spyropoulos Minghui , Shardell Michelle , Gonzalez‐Freire Marta , Gudnason Vilmundur , Eiriksdottir Gudny , Schaumberg Debra , Van Eyk Jennifer E. , Ferrucci Luigi , Semba Richard D.
Published: September 2016

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of visual loss among older adults. Two variants in the complement factor H (CFH) gene, Y402H and I62V, are strongly associated with risk of AMD. CFH is encoded in regulator of complement activation gene cluster in chromosome 1q32, which includes complement factor related (CFHR) proteins, CFHR1 to CFHR5, with high amino acid sequence homology to CFH. Our goal was to build a SRM assay to measure plasma concentrations of CFH variants Y402, H402, I62, and V62, and CFHR1‐5. The final assay consisted of 24 peptides and 72 interference‐free SRM transition ion pairs. Most peptides showed good linearity over 0.3–200 fmol/μL concentration range. Plasma concentrations of CFH variants and CFHR1‐5 were measured using the SRM assay in 344 adults. Plasma CFH concentrations (mean, SE in μg/mL) by inferred genotype were: YY402, II62 (170.1, 31.4), YY402, VV62 (188.8, 38.5), HH402, VV62 (144.0, 37.0), HY402, VV62 (164.2, 42.3), YY402, IV62 (194.8, 36.8), HY402, IV62 (181.3, 44.7). Mean (SE) plasma concentrations of CFHR1‐5 were 1.63 (0.04), 3.64 (1.20), 0.020 (0.001), 2.42 (0.18), and 5.49 (1.55) μg/mL, respectively. This SRM assay should facilitate the study of the role of systemic complement and risk of AMD.
Synthesis and properties of a novel high temperature pyridine‐containing phthalonitrile polymer
Authors: Xi Zhenjie , Chen Xinggang , Yu Xiaoyan , Ma Yuanhui , Ji Puguang , Naito Kimiyoshi , Ding Huili , Qu Xiongwei , Zhang Qingxin
Published: September 2016

A novel pyridine‐containing aromatic phthalonitrile monomer, 2,6‐bis[4‐(3,4‐dicyanophenoxy)benzoyl]pyridine (BCBP) was synthesized from the nitro displacement of 4‐nitrophthalonitrile by the phenoxide of 2,6‐bis (4‐hydroxybenzoyl)pyridine (BHBP). 4‐(Aminophenoxy) phthalonitrile (APPH) was selected to promote the curing reaction, and the curing behavior has been investigated by differential scanning calorimetric (DSC), suggesting a wide processing window about 64 °C. Different curing additive concentrations resulted in polymers with different crosslinking degrees and subsequently influenced the performance of resins. The resulting BCBP polymer exhibited high glass transition temperatures exceeding 400 °C, outstanding thermo‐oxidative stability with weight retention of 95% at 530 °C, indicating a significant improvement in thermal properties endowed by pyridine units. Additionally, it also showed a lower overall water absorption after submersion in boiling water for 50 hours. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3819–3825
Dual‐responsive copolymer poly(2,2,3,4,4,4‐hexafluorobutyl methacrylate)‐block‐poly[2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate] synthesized via photoATRP for surface with tunable wettability
Authors: Chen Zhi‐Chao , Zhu Bo‐Chao , Li Jin‐Jin , Zhou Yin‐Ning , Luo Zheng‐Hong
Published: September 2016

In this work, a series of block copolymers of poly(2,2,3,4,4,4‐hexafluorobutyl methacrylate)‐block‐poly[2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate] (PHFBMA‐b‐PDMAEMA) were synthesized via photo‐induced atom transfer radical polymerization (photoATRP) at room temperature. By the introduction of PDMAEMA segment, the hydrophilicity of the silicon wafer surface spin‐coated with PHFBMA homopolymer was improved. Furthermore, the study of tunable surface wettability showed that the surface wettability was pH‐dependent and thermal‐independent at pH 2 and 10. The as‐fabricated surface coated with PHFBMA110‐b‐PDMAEMA187 showed switchable water contact angle from 85.4° at pH > 4 to 55.0° at pH 2 due to the protonation and deprotonation of tertiary amine groups of PDMAEMA. However, because of the ascendancy of protonated PDMAEMA at pH 2 and the decreased LCST at pH 10, the wettability of the as‐prepared surfaces was thermal‐insensitive. Finally, surface morphology and composition investigation showed that the property of wettability‐controllable surface was not only influenced by surface composition, but also affected by chain conformation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3868–3877
Symptom experiences in metastatic breast cancer patients: relationships to activity engagement, value‐based living, and psychological inflexibility
Authors: Mosher Catherine E. , Tometich Danielle B. , Hirsh Adam , Rand Kevin L. , Johns Shelley A. , Matthias Marianne S. , Outcalt Samantha D. , Bricker Jonathan , Schneider Bryan , Mina Lida , Storniolo Anna Maria , Newton Erin , Miller Kathy
Published: September 2016

Objective

This study examined symptom‐based subgroups of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients and the extent to which they differed across key constructs of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

Methods

Eighty women with MBC completed self‐report surveys assessing 10 common symptoms and several ACT variables (ie, activity engagement, psychological inflexibility, value obstruction, and value progress) during a single time point.

Results

A cluster analysis yielded 3 patient subgroups: low symptoms, low‐moderate symptoms, and moderate‐high symptoms. Relative to the subgroup with low symptoms, the other subgroups reported less activity engagement. In addition, compared with patients with low symptoms, the subgroup with moderate‐high symptoms reported greater psychological inflexibility (ie, avoidance of unwanted internal experiences) and greater difficulty living consistently with their values.

Conclusions

Women with MBC show heterogeneity in their symptom profiles, and those with higher symptom burden are more likely to disengage from valued activities and avoid unwanted experiences (eg, thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations). Findings are largely consistent with the ACT model and provide strong justification for testing ACT to address symptom interference in MBC patients.