bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An instrumented timed up and go in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
Authors: Huisinga Jessie , Bruetsch Adam , Mccalley Ayla , Currence Melissa , Herbelin Laura , Jawdat Omar , Pasnoor Mamatha , Dimachkie Mazen , Barohn Richard , Statland Jeffrey
Published: September 2017

Introduction: Instrumenting timed functional motor tasks may reveal a continuum of motor disability that predicts future motor dysfunction. Methods: We performed a prospective study of the instrumented timed up and go (iTUG) test in genetically confirmed facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) participants using a commercially available system of wireless motion sensors. Patients returned within 2 weeks to determine test–retest reliability. Gait parameters in FSHD participants were compared with a normative database, FSHD clinical severity score, manual muscle testing, and patient‐reported functional disability. Results: Gait parameters in FSHD participants were significantly (P < 0.05) altered compared with normative values, and reliability was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.84–0.99). Stride velocity and trunk sagittal range of motion had moderate to strong correlations to other FSHD disease measures. Discussion: The iTUG was reliable, abnormal in FSHD, and could distinguish between participants with differing disease severities. Instrumenting timed functional tasks may prove to be useful in FSHD clinical trials. Muscle Nerve 57: 503–506, 2018
Adolescence transitional care in neurogenic detrusor overactivity and the use of OnabotulinumtoxinA: A clinical algorithm from an Italian consensus statement
Authors: Palleschi Giovanni , Mosiello Giovanni , Iacovelli Valerio , Musco Stefania , Del Popolo Giulio , Giannantoni Antonella , Carbone Antonio , Carone Roberto , Tubaro Andrea , De Gennaro Mario , Marte Antonio , Finazzi Agrò Enrico
Published: September 2017

Aims

OnabotulinumtoxinA (onaBNTa) for treating neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) is widely used after its regulatory approval in adults. Although the administration of onaBNTa is still considered off‐label in children, data have already been reported on its efficacy and safety. Nowadays, there is a lack of standardized protocols for treatment of NDO with onaBNTa in adolescent patients in their transition from the childhood to the adult age. With the aim to address this issue a consensus panel was obtained.

Methods

A panel of leading urologists and urogynaecologists skilled in functional urology, neuro‐urology, urogynaecology, and pediatric urology participated in a consensus‐forming project using a Delphi method to reach national consensus on NDO—onaBNTa treatment in adolescence transitional care.

Results

In total, 11 experts participated. All panelists participated in the four phases of the consensus process. Consensus was reached if ≥70% of the experts agreed on recommendations. To facilitate a common understanding among all experts, a face‐to‐face consensus meeting was held in Rome in march 2015 and then with a follow‐up teleconference in march 2017. By the end of the Delphi process, formal consensus was achieved for 100% of the items and an algorithm was then developed.

Conclusions

This manuscript represents the first report on the onaBNTa in adolescents. Young adults should be treated as a distinct sub‐population in policy, planning, programming, and research, as strongly sustained by national public health care. This consensus and the algorithm could support multidisciplinary communication, reduce the extent of variations in clinical practice and optimize clinical decision making.
Diabetes affects everything: Type 2 diabetes self‐management among Spanish‐speaking hispanic immigrants
Authors: Smith‐Miller Cheryl A. , Berry Diane C. , Miller Cass T.
Published: September 2017

This article is a report of qualitative findings of a mixed‐methods study of the relationships among knowledge, self‐efficacy, health promoting behaviors, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) self‐management among limited‐english‐proficient recent Hispanic immigrants, a population with increased incidence of T2DM and barriers to successful T2DM management. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 30 participants, and physiological and demographic data also were collected. The participants generally attributed developing the disease to strong emotions and viewed T2DM as a serious disease. Although a majority understood the importance of exercise and diet in T2DM self‐management, other aspects such as medication adherence were not well‐understood. Obstacles to effective T2DM self‐management were negative interactions and communications with health care providers and other personnel, cultural stigma related to the disease, financial constraints, immigration status, and the complexity of the disease. Suggested interventions to improve the care and self‐management of this at‐risk population are discussed.
Morphology and flow effect of microinjection‐molded plastic microgears
Authors: El Otmani Rabie , Kandoussi Khalid , Kamal Musa R. , Derdouri Salim , Boutaous M'Hamed
Published: September 2017

The article from this special issue was previously published in Polymers for Advanced Technologies, Volume 28, Issue 4, 2017. For completeness we are including the title page of the article below. The full text of the article can be read in Issue 28:4 on Wiley Online Library: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pat.3946/full
A very low concentration of polybenzimidazole film interleaved bismaleimide/diallyl bisphenol a system with outstanding improvement in impact strength and excellent allround properties
Authors: Zhang Quan , Guan Qingbao , Yuan Li , Gu Aijuan , Liang Guozheng
Published: September 2017

A very low concentration of thermoplastic polybenzimidazole (PBI) film interleaved bismaleimide/diallyl bisphenol A (BMI/DBA) system with sandwich structure was designed for the outstanding impact resistance. The effects of PBI film layers (0∼5) on the mechanical, thermal, dielectric properties and flame retardancy of BMI/DBA were investigated. BMI/DBA interleaved with 5‐layer PBI film demonstrates a 274% increase in impact strength relative to BMI/DBA, and exhibits higher fracture toughness, flexural strength and modulus than BMI/DBA. The improvement in the mechanical property for PBI film interleaved BMI/DBA system is mainly attributed to the combined effects of the effective energy dissipation of the sandwich structure and the good interfacial bonding between PBI film and the matrix. Due to the high thermal stability of PBI, the effective thermal insulation and electromagnetic field barrier of PBI film in the sandwich structure and the increase of the reacted CC in resin system, PBI film interleaved BMI/DBA shows better thermal property, much higher flame retardancy and lower dielectric constant compared to BMI/DBA. In addition, when the same amount of PBI is applied, BMI/DBA interleaved with PBI film exhibits much better comprehensive properties than BMI/DBA with PBI particles for the sandwich structure. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4569–4580, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
PDBsum: Structural summaries of PDB entries
Authors: Laskowski Roman A. , Jabłońska Jagoda , Pravda Lukáš , Vařeková Radka Svobodová , Thornton Janet M.
Published: September 2017

PDBsum is a web server providing structural information on the entries in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). The analyses are primarily image‐based and include protein secondary structure, protein‐ligand and protein‐DNA interactions, PROCHECK analyses of structural quality, and many others. The 3D structures can be viewed interactively in RasMol, PyMOL, and a JavaScript viewer called 3Dmol.js. Users can upload their own PDB files and obtain a set of password‐protected PDBsum analyses for each. The server is freely accessible to all at: http://www.ebi.ac.uk/pdbsum.
Sequential sampling plans and economic injury levels for Empoasca kraemeri on common bean crops at different technological levels
Authors: de Moura Marcelo Fialho , Lopes Mayara Cristina , Pereira Renata Ramos , Parish Jorgiane Benevenute , Chediak Mateus , de Paulo Arcanjo Lucas , das Graças do Carmo Daiane , Picanço Marcelo Coutinho
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Empoasca kraemeri is an important pest on common bean crops at different technological levels. However, for this pest on this crop, economic injury levels have not yet been determined and plan for sequential sampling plans has not yet been developed. Thus, the objectives of this research were to develop E. kraemeri sequential sampling plans and to determine economic injury levels in the common bean at different crop technological levels.

RESULTS

Common bean plants tolerate low attack intensities of this pest (up to 1 adult plant‐1). However, with an increase in attacks, there is a reduction in grain production by the plants. The economic injury levels were 0.48, 0.39 and 0.35 adults sample‐1 (leaf beating on a tray) for crops with low (1200 kg ha‐1), medium (1800 kg ha‐1) and high (2400 kg ha‐1) technological levels, respectively. Sequential sampling plans and the standardized plan produced similar decisions. However, in these decisions there was a time saving of more than 60% compared with the standardized plan.

CONCLUSION

All three economic injury levels determined and the sequential sampling plans developed in this study are suitable for incorporation into integrated management programs for common bean pests because they can be used by farmers operating at various technological levels to make adequate and rapid decisions. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Identification and characterization of vilazodone metabolites in rats and microsomes by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Chavan Balasaheb B. , Kalariya Pradipbhai D. , Tiwari Shristy , Nimbalkar Rakesh D. , Garg Prabha , Srinivas R. , Talluri M.V.N. Kumar
Published: September 2017

Rationale

Vilazodone is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). An extensive literature search found few reports on the in vivo and in vitro metabolism of vilazodone. Therefore, we report a comprehensive in vivo and in vitro metabolic identification and structural characterization of vilazodone using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q‐TOF/MS/MS) and in silico toxicity study of the metabolites.

Methods

To identify in vivo metabolites of vilazodone, blood, urine and faeces samples were collected at different time intervals starting from 0 h to 48 h after oral administration of vilazodone to Sprague‐Dawley rats. The in vitro metabolism study was conducted with human liver microsomes (HLM) and rat liver microsomes (RLM). The samples were prepared using an optimized sample preparation approach involving protein precipitation followed by solid‐phase extraction. The metabolites have been identified and characterized by using LC/ESI‐MS/MS.

Results

A total of 12 metabolites (M1–M12) were identified in in vivo and in vitro matrices and characterized by LC/ESI‐MS/MS. The majority of the metabolites were observed in urine, while a few metabolites were present in faeces and plasma. Two metabolites were observed in the in vitro study. A semi‐quantitative study based on percentage counts shows that metabolites M11, M6 and M8 were observed in higher amounts in urine, faeces and plasma, respectively.

Conclusions

The structures of all the 12 metabolites were elucidated by using LC/ESI‐MS/MS. The study suggests that vilazodone was metabolized via hydroxylation, dihydroxylation, glucuronidation, oxidative deamination, dealkylation, dehydrogenation and dioxidation. All the metabolites were screened for toxicity using an in silico tool.
Consequences of different cutting regimes on regrowth and nutrient stoichiometry of Sparganium erectum L. and Potamogeton natans L.
Authors: Bal K.D. , Verschoren V. , Sara J.R. , Meire P. , Schoelynck J.
Published: September 2017

Aquatic vegetation forms an essential component in freshwater ecosystems but due to changed environmental and anthropogenic conditions often needs management to reduce nuisance for human land‐use. In this paper, the authors looked at the regrowth of two macrophyte species (Potamogeton natans and Sparganium erectum) in two lowland rivers under different cutting treatments. After an initial cross‐sectional transect was manually removed from bank to bank at the beginning of the growth season, a monthly repetitive removal of biomass in plots on that transect was done during the rest of the growth season (testing frequency of mowing). Additional new transects were also cut in subsequent months (testing timing of mowing). Finally, biomass was repetitively removed in plots in those additional transects too (testing frequency of mowing × timing of mowing). The biomass at the end of the growth season was analysed for C, N, P, and Si. It was demonstrated that timing and frequency of vegetation cutting has an important effect on the capacity and rate of species' recovery and therefore on the efficiency of the applied management. Nutrient stoichiometry of the regrown biomass was directly affected by cutting. Caused by differences in the applied timing and frequency of the cutting, C/N and N/P ratios and BSi concentrations were highly variable. Yet, overall, there was a clear tendency towards a higher C/N ratio and BSi concentration and lower N/P ratio in biomass that recovered after cutting. This human impact on the quantity and quality of autochthonous organic matter may have knock‐on effects on the decomposers food web and mineralization process.
Feasibility of Coping Effectiveness Training for Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Genetic Counseling Intervention
Authors: Haakonsen Smith Christy , Turbitt Erin , Muschelli John , Leonard Lori , Lewis Katie L. , Freedman Brian , Muratori Michelle , Biesecker Barbara B.
Published: September 2017

Caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may find it difficult to feel a sense of control and to cope with the overall physical and emotional demands of caring for their child. While caregivers are able to successfully cope with a high level of stress, there are limits to their resources and abilities to cope over time. Genetic counselors working with affected families may be able to help parents more effectively manage stress related to the disorder. Few short‐term interventions have been reported in genetic counseling yet implementation of evidence‐based examples may be achievable. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of a coping effectiveness training (CET) intervention designed to enhance coping self‐efficacy (CSE) among caregivers of children with ASD, with the eventual goal of translating this intervention into genetic counseling practice. A randomized treatment‐control design was used to investigate the feasibility of an intervention using CET among caregivers of children with ASD. The primary outcome was the feasibility of the intervention; the secondary outcome was improvements in CSE in the intervention group as compared to the control group. Caregivers were recruited and randomized into the treatment (n=15) or control (n=13) groups. Of these, 22 completed the study (retention: 78.6%). The intervention was highly feasible; most caregivers found the CET helpful, practical, useful, and relatively easy to attend. The treatment group demonstrated significantly increased CSE from pre‐intervention to post‐intervention (p=0.02). Between group differences were not significant when comparing the pre‐post changes. We provide preliminary evidence that CET may be beneficial to caregivers of children with ASD. The results of this feasibility study support development of a phase II study of this intervention in a larger cohort, aimed to be implemented into a genetic counseling setting.
Magnetic Resonance Signal Abnormalities within the Pericruciate Fat Pad: A Possible Secondary Sign for Acute Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears
Authors: Draghi Ferdinando , Torresi Mario , Urciuoli Luigi , Gitto Salvatore
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The study sought to investigate the presence of magnetic resonance (MR) signal alterations within the pericruciate fat pad in patients with an acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear as well as evaluate its diagnostic value in comparison with the main secondary signs of ACL tears.

Methods

Two musculoskeletal radiologists retrospectively reviewed knee MR examinations performed from May to October 2015. The ACL was considered as torn or intact based on either previous arthroscopic findings or unequivocal MR imaging interpretation if arthroscopic correlation was unavailable. Abnormalities of the pericruciate fat pad were evaluated as increased signal on the fluid-sensitive sequences; the main secondary signs of ACL tears were identified. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for each sign.

Results

A total of 182 patients entered this study: 22 with an acute ACL tear, 160 with intact ACL. Signal hyperintensity of the pericruciate fat pad was demonstrated in all patients with an acutely torn ACL, resulting significantly different between individuals with intact ACL and those with ligament tear ( P < .0001). This sign was much more sensitive (100%) but less specific (72.5%-75%) than other secondary signs.

Conclusions

Signal hyperintensity of the pericruciate fat pad on the fluid-sensitive sequences is associated with acute ACL tears and could be considered as a possible indicator of these injuries.
Consequences of perinatal hypoxia in developing brain: Changes in GABA transporter functioning in cortical, hippocampal and thalamic rat nerve terminals
Authors: Pozdnyakova Natalia
Published: September 2017

Perinatal hypoxia leads to behavioral abnormalities, cognitive disabilities, and epilepsy resulting from alterations in neurodevelopment, maturation and construction of the network. Considering a particular role of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) for an immature brain, we analysed transporter‐mediated [3H]GABA uptake in the cortical, hippocampal and thalamic nerve terminals isolated from rats of different age in the control and after perinatal hypoxia. The state of hypoxia was induced by exposure of rats at the age of 10 postnatal days (pd) (that corresponds approximately to the time of birth in humans) to a respiratory medium with low O2 content (4% O2 and 96%N2) for 12 min (up to the initiation of clonico‐tonic seizures). Here, we found that the initial rate of [3Н]GABA uptake was higher in the young rats (pd 17–19) as compared to the older ones (pd 24–26, 38–40 and 66–73) in both control and hypoxia groups. It decreased abruptly by 50% in the thalamus and by 25% in the cortex for the period from pd 17–19 to pd 66–73. In the hippocampus, a decrease in the rate during the same time interval was 25%. Exposure to hypoxia had no effect on the intensity of [3Н]GABA uptake by the cortical and thalamic nerve terminals, but caused a significant age‐dependent attenuation (by 35%) of the uptake intensity in the hippocampal ones. Significant age‐dependent hypoxia‐independent decrease in [3Н]GABA uptake with step‐like dynamics of changes was shown in the thalamus and cortex. Gradual age‐dependent hypoxia‐dependent decrease in [3Н]GABA uptake was revealed in the hippocampus, and so a particular vulnerability of the latest structure to hypoxia as compared to the cortex and thalamus was revealed.
Impact of pre-operative serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D on post-operative serum calcium in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy for benign goitre: retrospective study of 246 patients
Authors: Erlem M , Klopp-Dutote N , Biet-Hornstein A , Strunski V , Page C
Published: September 2017

Objective:

To determine whether pre-operative serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D has an impact on post-operative parathyroid hormone and serum calcium levels in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy for benign goitre.

Methods:

This single-centre, retrospective study comprised 246 unselected surgical patients who had undergone total thyroidectomy for bilateral, benign, multinodular goitre. The correlation between pre-operative serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and post-operative serum parathyroid hormone and serum calcium was studied to determine whether low pre-operative serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was predictive of post-operative hypocalcaemia.

Results:

Seventy-nine patients (32 per cent) had post-operative hypocalcaemia. Eighteen patients (7.32 per cent) experienced unintentional parathyroidectomy (1 parathyroid gland in 15 patients, 2 parathyroid glands in 3 patients). In univariate analysis, pre-operative serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was not correlated with post-operative serum calcium (p = 0.69) or post-operative serum parathyroid hormone (p = 0.5804). Furthermore, in multivariate analysis, which took into account unintentional parathyroidectomy, no correlation was found (p = 0.33). Bilateral unintentional parathyroidectomy was statistically associated with post-operative hypocalcaemia (p = 0.032).

Conclusion:

Pre-operative serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D did not appear to have any impact on post-operative serum calcium in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy for benign goitre.
Audiological outcome of stapes surgery for far advanced cochlear otosclerosis
Authors: Heining C , Banga R , Irving R , Coulson C , Monksfield P
Published: September 2017

Background:

Patients with advanced otosclerosis can present with hearing thresholds eligible for cochlear implantation. This study sought to address whether stapes surgery in this patient group provides a clinically significant audiological benefit.

Objectives:

To assess pre- and post-operative hearing outcomes of patients with advanced otosclerosis, and to determine what proportion of these patients required further surgery including cochlear implantation.

Methods:

Between 2002 and 2015, 252 patients underwent primary stapes surgery at our institution. Twenty-eight ears in 25 patients were deemed to have advanced otosclerosis, as defined by pure audiometry thresholds over 80 dB. The patients’ records were analysed to determine audiological improvement following stapes surgery, and assess whether any further surgery was required.

Results:

The audiological outcome for most patients who underwent primary stapes surgery was good. A minority of patients (7 per cent) required revision surgery. Patients who underwent cochlear implantation after stapes surgery (10 per cent) also demonstrated a good audiological outcome.

Conclusion:

Stapes surgery is a suitable treatment option for patients with advanced otosclerosis, and should be considered mandatory, before offering cochlear implantation, for those with a demonstrable conductive component to their hearing loss. A small group of patients get little benefit from surgery and subsequently a cochlear implant should be considered.
The Date of the Bucolic Poet Martius Valerius
Authors: Stover Justin A.
Published: September 2017

The collection of four Latin bucolics ascribed to one Martius Valerius was only published in the twentieth century; they have been widely considered as twelfth-century compositions. Picking up on suggestions proposed by François Dolbeau, this study presents evidence that Martius drew directly on the bucolics of Theocritus, and that his poems are late antique, not medieval, literary productions, probably written in the sixth century. Such a conclusion will require a revision of the history of post-Virgilian Latin bucolic poetry.
The Prospects for the Future of European Union–African Union Relations in Uncertain Times
Authors: Rein Conrad
Published: September 2017

The importance of Africa for Europe was highlighted in the 1950 Schuman Declaration. Although the overarching framework for relations between the European Union and Africa is embedded in the 2000 Cotonou Agreement, cooperation between the European Union and Africa became increasingly institutionalized through the European Union–Africa Summits of 2000, 2007, 2010 and 2014, during which political leaders from both sides made strong rhetorical commitments to a strategic partnership. Yet, for the wider public, the relationship between the European Union and Africa appears to be both obscure and complex. The fifth European Union–Africa Summit is scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast in November 2017. This article will provide an overview of the development of European Union–Africa relations that coincided with the emergence of the African Union, the successor of the Organisation of African Unity. The so-called ‘strategic partnership’ between the European Union and the African Union represents the most comprehensive partnership the African Union has with any non-African actor. By highlighting current challenges affecting both, such as irregular migration, this article will, however, demonstrate that cooperation between the two is limited and somewhat lacking in strategic direction.
Differences in Neurocognitive Impairment Among HIV-Infected Latinos in the United States
Authors: Marquine María J. , Heaton Anne , Johnson Neco , Rivera-Mindt Monica , Cherner Mariana , Bloss Cinnamon , Hulgan Todd , Umlauf Anya , Moore David J. , Fazeli Pariya , Morgello Susan , Franklin Donald , Letendre Scott , Ellis Ron , Collier Ann C. , Marra Christina M. , Clifford David. B. , Gelman Benjamin B. , Sacktor Ned , Simpson David , McCutchan J. Allen , Grant Igor , Heaton Robert K.
Published: September 2017

Objectives: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disproportionately affects Hispanics/Latinos in the United States, yet little is known about neurocognitive impairment (NCI) in this group. We compared the rates of NCI in large well-characterized samples of HIV-infected (HIV+) Latinos and (non-Latino) Whites, and examined HIV-associated NCI among subgroups of Latinos. Methods: Participants included English-speaking HIV+ adults assessed at six U.S. medical centers (194 Latinos, 600 Whites). For overall group, age: M=42.65 years, SD=8.93; 86% male; education: M=13.17, SD=2.73; 54% had acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. NCI was assessed with a comprehensive test battery with normative corrections for age, education and gender. Covariates examined included HIV-disease characteristics, comorbidities, and genetic ancestry. Results: Compared with Whites, Latinos had higher rates of global NCI (42% vs. 54%), and domain NCI in executive function, learning, recall, working memory, and processing speed. Latinos also fared worse than Whites on current and historical HIV-disease characteristics, and nadir CD4 partially mediated ethnic differences in NCI. Yet, Latinos continued to have more global NCI [odds ratio (OR)=1.59; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.13–2.23; p<.01] after adjusting for significant covariates. Higher rates of global NCI were observed with Puerto Rican (n=60; 71%) versus Mexican (n=79, 44%) origin/descent; this disparity persisted in models adjusting for significant covariates (OR=2.40; CI=1.11–5.29; p=.03). Conclusions: HIV+ Latinos, especially of Puerto Rican (vs. Mexican) origin/descent had increased rates of NCI compared with Whites. Differences in rates of NCI were not completely explained by worse HIV-disease characteristics, neurocognitive comorbidities, or genetic ancestry. Future studies should explore culturally relevant psychosocial, biomedical, and genetic factors that might explain these disparities and inform the development of targeted interventions. (JINS, 2018, 24, 163–175)
Curbing food waste: A review of recent policy and action in the USA
Authors: Walia Bhavneet , Sanders Shane
Published: September 2017

The present study reviews previous published estimates as to the scale of food waste in the USA and its ecological toll (e.g., in terms of methane emissions and water usage to support the production of wasted food). The review further discusses recent public policy and private action designed to curb food waste or to apply wasted food toward hunger alleviation, biofuel production and soil nourishment. We further consider and expand upon previous estimates comparing the scale of food waste to the present scale of the US hunger problem. These estimates suggest that the recovery and redirection of an additional 15% of the present stock ofediblefood waste would meet 35% of the caloric needs of all Americans living in a food insecure household or very low food security household. Then, a modest to moderate proportional increase in edible food waste recovery could greatly reduce the US hunger problem in its present state. We estimate that the successful redirection of 15% of presently-wasted (edible) food in the USA would be sufficient to fully sustain 18.45 million individuals. Given available data, we cannot precisely assess the nutritional characteristics of this potential stock of food. The present study emphasizes the traditional and future importance of integrated public policy and private action at the municipal level, as food waste is typically disposed of or recovered at this level.
Why Are Arctic Rivers Rising in Winter?
Authors: Underwood Emily
Published: September 2017

Increased glacial melt is boosting winter streamflows by filling aquifers, a new study on an Alaskan river suggests.
A genome-wide association study identifies a novel susceptibility locus for the immunogenicity of polyethylene glycol
Authors: Chang Chia-Jung , Chen Chien-Hsiun , Chen Bing-Mae , Su Yu-Cheng , Chen Ying-Ting , Hershfield Michael S. , Lee Ming-Ta Michael , Cheng Tian-Lu , Chen Yuan-Tsong , Roffler Steve R. , Wu Jer-Yuarn
Published: September 2017

Conjugation of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to therapeutic molecules can improve bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. However, some healthy individuals have pre-existing anti-PEG antibodies and certain patients develop anti-PEG antibody during treatment with PEGylated medicines, suggesting that genetics might play a role in PEG immunogenicity. Here we perform genome-wide association studies for anti-PEG IgM and IgG responses in Han Chinese with 177 and 140 individuals, defined as positive for anti-PEG IgM and IgG responses, respectively, and with 492 subjects without either anti-PEG IgM or IgG as controls. We validate the association results in the replication cohort, consisting of 211 and 192 subjects with anti-PEG IgM and anti-PEG IgG, respectively, and 596 controls. We identify the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) locus to be associated with anti-PEG IgM response at genome-wide significance (P = 2.23 × 10−22). Our findings may provide novel genetic markers for predicting the immunogenicity of PEG and efficacy of PEGylated therapeutics.
Rapid Staining of Circulating Tumor Cells in Three-Dimensional Microwell Dialysis (3D-μDialysis) Chip
Authors: Cho Wanying , Pradhan Rangadhar , Chen Hsin Ying , Weng Yi-Hsuan , Chu Hsueh Yao , Tseng Fan-Gang , Lin Chien-Ping , Jiang Jeng-Kai
Published: September 2017

The conventional techniques to detect circulating tumour cells (CTCs) are lengthy and the use of centrifugal forces in this technique may cause cell mortality. As the number of CTCs in patients is quite low, the present study aims towards a gentler diagnostic procedure so as not to lose too many CTCs during the sample preparation process. Hence, a Three-Dimensional Microwell dialysis (3D-μDialysis) chip was designed in this study to perform gentle fluorescence-removal process by using dialysis-type flow processes without centrifuging. This leads to a minimum manual handling of CTCs obtained in our study without any contamination. In addition, a rapid staining process which necessitates only about half the time of conventional techniques (35 minutes instead of 90 minutes) is being illustrated by the employment of dialysis process (by dynamically removing water and waste at once) instead of only static diffusion (by statically removing only waste by diffusion). Staining efficiency of our technique is improved over conventional staining because of the flow rate in 3D-μDialysis staining. Moreover, the staining process has been validated with clinical whole blood samples from three TNM stage IV colon cancer patients. The current technique may be termed as “miniature rapid staining and dialysing system”.
Carrier re-sequencing reveals rare but benign variants in recessive deafness genes
Authors: He Longxia , Pang Xiuhong , Chen Penghui , Wang Xiaowen , Yang Tao , Wu Hao
Published: September 2017

For recessive Mendelian disorders, determining the pathogenicity of rare, non-synonymous variants in known causative genes can be challenging without expanded pedigrees and/or functional analysis. In this study, we proposed to establish a database of rare but benign variants in recessive deafness genes by systematic carrier re-sequencing. As a pilot study, 30 heterozygous carriers of pathogenic variants for deafness were identified from unaffected family members of 18 deaf probands. The entire coding regions of the corresponding genes were re-sequenced in those carriers by targeted next-generation sequencing or Sanger sequencing. A total of 32 non-synonymous variants were identified in the normal-hearing carriers in trans with the pathogenic variant and therefore were classified as benign. Among them were five rare (minor allele frequencies less than 0.005) variants that had previously undefined, disputable or even misclassified function: p.A434T (c.1300 G > A) in SLC26A4, p.R266Q (c.797 G > A) in LOXHD1, p.K96Q (c.286 A > C) in MYO15A, p.T123N (c.368 C > A) in GJB2 and p.V1299I (c.797 G > A) in CDH23. Our results suggested that large scale carrier re-sequencing may be warranted to establish a database of rare but benign variants in causative genes in order to reduce false positive genetic diagnosis of recessive Mendelian disorders.
Survivin and XIAP – two potential biological targets in follicular thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Werner Thomas A. , Dizdar Levent , Nolten Inga , Riemer Jasmin C. , Mersch Sabrina , Schütte Sina C. , Driemel Christiane , Verde Pablo E. , Raba Katharina , Topp Stefan A. , Schott Matthias , Knoefel Wolfram T. , Krieg Andreas
Published: September 2017

Follicular thyroid carcinoma’s (FTC) overall good prognosis deteriorates if the tumour fails to retain radioactive iodine. Therefore, new druggable targets are in high demand for this subset of patients. Here, we investigated the prognostic and biological role of survivin and XIAP in FTC. Survivin and XIAP expression was investigated in 44 FTC and corresponding non-neoplastic thyroid specimens using tissue microarrays. Inhibition of both inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAP) was induced by shRNAs or specific small molecule antagonists and functional changes were investigated in vitro and in vivo. Survivin and XIAP were solely expressed in FTC tissue. Survivin expression correlated with an advanced tumour stage and recurrent disease. In addition, survivin proved to be an independent negative prognostic marker. Survivin or XIAP knockdown caused a significant reduction in cell viability and proliferation, activated caspase3/7 and was associated with a reduced tumour growth in vivo. IAP-targeting compounds induced a decrease of cell viability, proliferation and cell cycle activity accompanied by an increase in apoptosis. Additionally, YM155 a small molecule inhibitor of survivin expression significantly inhibited tumour growth in vivo. Both IAPs demonstrate significant functional implications in the oncogenesis of FTCs and thus prove to be viable targets in patients with advanced FTC.
Computational Cell Cycle Profiling of Cancer Cells for Prioritizing FDA-Approved Drugs with Repurposing Potential
Authors: Lo Yu-Chen , Senese Silvia , France Bryan , Gholkar Ankur A. , Damoiseaux Robert , Torres Jorge Z.
Published: September 2017

Discovery of first-in-class medicines for treating cancer is limited by concerns with their toxicity and safety profiles, while repurposing known drugs for new anticancer indications has become a viable alternative. Here, we have developed a new approach that utilizes cell cycle arresting patterns as unique molecular signatures for prioritizing FDA-approved drugs with repurposing potential. As proof-of-principle, we conducted large-scale cell cycle profiling of 884 FDA-approved drugs. Using cell cycle indexes that measure changes in cell cycle profile patterns upon chemical perturbation, we identified 36 compounds that inhibited cancer cell viability including 6 compounds that were previously undescribed. Further cell cycle fingerprint analysis and 3D chemical structural similarity clustering identified unexpected FDA-approved drugs that induced DNA damage, including clinically relevant microtubule destabilizers, which was confirmed experimentally via cell-based assays. Our study shows that computational cell cycle profiling can be used as an approach for prioritizing FDA-approved drugs with repurposing potential, which could aid the development of cancer therapeutics.
Broadband biphoton generation and statistics of quantum light in the UV-visible range in an AlGaN microring resonator
Authors: De Leonardis Francesco , Soref Richard A. , Soltani Mohammad , Passaro Vittorio M. N.
Published: September 2017

We present a physical investigation on the generation of correlated photon pairs that are broadly spaced in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible spectrum on a AlGaN/AlN integrated photonic platform which is optically transparent at these wavelengths. Using spontaneous four wave mixing (SFWM) in an AlGaN microring resonator, we show design techniques to satisfy the phase matching condition between the optical pump, the signal, and idler photon pairs, a condition which is essential and is a key hurdle when operating at short wavelength due to the strong normal dispersion of the material. Such UV-visible photon pairs are quite beneficial for interaction with qubit ions that are mostly in this wavelength range, and will enable heralding the photon-ion interaction. As a target application example, we present the systematic AlGaN microresonator design for generating signal and idler photon pairs using a blue wavelength pump, while the signal appears at the transition of ytterbium ion (171Yb+, 369.5 nm) and the idler appears in the far blue or green range. The photon pairs have minimal crosstalk to the pump power due to their broad spacing in spectral wavelength, thereby relaxing the design of on-chip integrated filters for separating pump, signal and idler.
87Sr/86Sr evidence from the epeiric Martin Ridge Basin for enhanced carbonate weathering during the Hirnantian
Authors: Hu Dongping , Zhang Xiaolin , Zhou Lian , Finney Stanley C. , Liu Yongsheng , Shen Danielle , Shen Megan , Huang Wei , Shen Yanan
Published: September 2017

A pronounced positive δ13C excursion in the Hirnantian Age has been documented globally, reflecting large perturbations of carbon cycling in the Late Ordovician oceans. Increased organic-carbon burial or enhanced carbonate weathering during glacioeustatic sea-level regression has been proposed to account for this anomalous C-isotope excursion. To test the two competing hypotheses, we measured 87Sr/86Sr and δ13C of carbonates from the Copenhagen Canyon section in Nevada, USA. Our data reveal two rapid negative 87Sr/86Sr shifts that coincide with two prominent positive δ13C excursions and glacial advances. Numerical model simulations suggest that enhanced weathering of carbonates driven by glacio-eustatically controlled sea-level fall is required to produce the observed drops of 87Sr/86Sr and the coeval large positive δ13C excursions, possibly with or without increased organic carbon burial.
Structural insights into the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus 4a protein and its dsRNA binding mechanism
Authors: Batool Maria , Shah Masaud , Patra Mahesh Chandra , Yesudhas Dhanusha , Choi Sangdun
Published: September 2017

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) has evolved to navigate through the sophisticated network of a host’s immune system. The immune evasion mechanism including type 1 interferon and protein kinase R-mediated antiviral stress responses has been recently attributed to the involvement of MERS-CoV protein 4a (p4a) that masks the viral dsRNA. However, the structural mechanism of how p4a recognizes and establishes contacts with dsRNA is not well explained. In this study, we report a dynamic mechanism deployed by p4a to engage the viral dsRNA and make it unavailable to the host immune system. Multiple variants of p4a-dsRNA were created and investigated through extensive molecular dynamics procedures to highlight crucial interfacial residues that may be used as potential pharmacophores for future drug development. The structural analysis revealed that p4a exhibits a typical αβββα fold structure, as found in other dsRNA-binding proteins. The α1 helix and the β1-β2 loop play a crucial role in recognizing and establishing contacts with the minor grooves of dsRNA. Further, mutational and binding free energy analyses suggested that in addition to K63 and K67, two other residues, K27 and W45, might also be crucial for p4a-dsRNA stability.
Deep sequencing reveals the first fabavirus infecting peach
Authors: He Yan , Cai Li , Zhou Lingling , Yang Zuokun , Hong Ni , Wang Guoping , Li Shifang , Xu Wenxing
Published: September 2017

A disease causing smaller and cracked fruit affects peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch], resulting in significant decreases in yield and quality. In this study, peach tree leaves showing typical symptoms were subjected to deep sequencing of small RNAs for a complete survey of presumed causal viral pathogens. The results revealed two known viroids (Hop stunt viroid and Peach latent mosaic viroid), two known viruses (Apple chlorotic leaf spot trichovirus and Plum bark necrosis stem pitting-associated virus) and a novel virus provisionally named Peach leaf pitting-associated virus (PLPaV). Phylogenetic analysis based on RNA-dependent RNA polymerase placed PLPaV into a separate cluster under the genus Fabavirus in the family Secoviridae. The genome consists of two positive-sense single-stranded RNAs, i.e., RNA1 [6,357 nt, with a 48-nt poly(A) tail] and RNA2 [3,862 nt, with a 25-nt poly(A) containing two cytosines]. Biological tests of GF305 peach indicator seedlings indicated a leaf-pitting symptom rather than the smaller and cracked fruit symptoms related to virus and viroid infection. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a fabavirus infecting peach. PLPaV presents several new molecular and biological features that are absent in other fabaviruses, contributing to an overall better understanding of fabaviruses.
A novel non prophage(-like) gene-intervening element within gerE that is reconstituted during sporulation in Bacillus cereus ATCC10987
Authors: Abe Kimihiro , Shimizu Shin-ya , Tsuda Shuhei , Sato Tsutomu
Published: September 2017

Gene rearrangement is a widely-shared phenomenon in spore forming bacteria, in which prophage(-like) elements interrupting sporulation-specific genes are excised from the host genome to reconstitute the intact gene. Here, we report a novel class of gene-intervening elements, named gin, inserted in the 225 bp gerE-coding region of the B. cereus ATCC10987 genome, which generates a sporulation-specific rearrangement. gin has no phage-related genes and possesses three site-specific recombinase genes; girA, girB, and girC. We demonstrated that the gerE rearrangement occurs at the middle stage of sporulation, in which site-specific DNA recombination took place within the 9 bp consensus sequence flanking the disrupted gerE segments. Deletion analysis of gin uncovered that GirC and an additional factor, GirX, are responsible for gerE reconstitution. Involvement of GirC and GirX in DNA recombination was confirmed by an in vitro recombination assay. These results broaden the definition of the sporulation-specific gene rearrangement phenomenon: gene-intervening elements are not limited to phage DNA but may include non-viral genetic elements that carry a developmentally-regulated site-specific recombination system.
Sclerostin induced tumor growth, bone metastasis and osteolysis in breast cancer
Authors: Zhu Menghai , Liu Changzhen , Li Shifei , Zhang Shudong , Yao Qi , Song Qingkun
Published: September 2017

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Many patients suffer from bone metastasis. Sclerostin, a key regulator of normal bone remodeling, is critically involved in osteolytic bone diseases. However, its role in breast cancer bone metastasis remains unknown. Here, we found that sclerostin was overexpressed in breast cancer tumor tissues and cell lines. Inhibition of sclerostin by antibody (Scl-Ab) significantly reduced migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In xenograft model, sclerostin inhibition improved survival of nude mice and prevented osteolytic lesions resulting from tumor metastasis. Taken together, sclerostin promotes breast cancer cell migration, invasion and bone osteolysis. Inhibition of sclerostin may serve as an efficient strategy for interventions against breast cancer bone metastasis or osteolytic bone diseases.
A genetically encoded cyclobutene probe for labelling of live cells
Authors: Liu K. , Enns B. , Evans B. , Wang N. , Shang X. , Sittiwong W. , Dussault P. H. , Guo J.
Published: September 2017

Efficient synthesis of and protein labelling with a genetically encoded cyclobutene probe.
Calcium stilbene complexes: structures and dual reactivity
Authors: Causero Andrea , Elsen Holger , Ballmann Gerd , Escalona Ana , Harder Sjoerd
Published: September 2017

Addition of a calcium hydride complex to diphenylacetylene gave a complex in which the stilbene dianion symmetrically bridges two Ca2+ions. With H2, this complex reacts as a double Brønsted base. In reaction with I2it provides two electrons.
A global method for handling fluorescence spectra at high concentration derived from the competition between emission and absorption of colloidal CdTe quantum dots
Authors: Noblet Thomas , Dreesen Laurent , Hottechamps Julie , Humbert Christophe
Published: September 2017

Modeling of the fluorescence spectra of quantum dots altered by inner filter effects is applicable to any type of fluorophore.
Biomembrane solubilization mechanism by Triton X-100: a computational study of the three stage model
Authors: Pizzirusso Antonio , De Nicola Antonio , Sevink G. J. Agur , Correa Andrea , Cascella Michele , Kawakatsu Toshihiro , Rocco Mattia , Zhao Ying , Celino Massimo , Milano Giuseppe
Published: September 2017

The solubilization mechanism of lipid membranes in the presence of Triton X-100 (TX-100) is investigated at molecular resolution using hybrid particle field–self consistence field simulations.
Infrared spectroscopy of O˙− and OH− in water clusters: evidence for fast interconversion between O˙− and OH˙OH−
Authors: Lengyel Jozef , Ončák Milan , Herburger Andreas , van der Linde Christian , Beyer Martin K.
Published: September 2017

We present infrared multiple photon dissociation (IRMPD) spectra of (H2O)nO˙− and (H2O)nOH− cluster ensembles for n̄ ≈ 8 and 47 in the range of 2400–4000 cm−1.
Vibrational spectra and physico-chemical properties of astrophysical analogs
Authors: Gómez Pedro C. , Escribano Rafael
Published: September 2017

We undertake in this paper a theoretical study based on DFT methodology of amorphous solids formed by methane, water and nitrogen in a ratio of 1 : 3 : 3.
Order–disorder phase transition in an anhydrous pyrazole-based proton conductor: the enhancement of electrical transport properties
Authors: Widelicka M. , Pogorzelec-Glaser K. , Pietraszko A. , Ławniczak P. , Pankiewicz R. , Łapiński A.
Published: September 2017

The heat treatment of the anhydrous proton conductor causes a change in the crystalline structure and improves electrical conductivity.
New insights and perspectives into biological materials for flexible electronics
Authors: Wang Lili , Chen Di , Jiang Kai , Shen Guozhen
Published: September 2017

Materials based on biological materials are becoming increasingly competitive and are likely to be critical components in flexible electronic devices.