bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing the Role of a Non‐Thermal Plasma (NTP) in the Hybrid NTP Catalytic Oxidation of Methane
Authors: Gibson Emma K , Stere Cristina E , Curran‐McAteer Bronagh , Jones Wilm , Cibin Giannantonio , Gianolio Diego , Goguet Alexandre , Wells Peter P. , Catlow C. Richard A. , Collier Paul , Hinde Peter , Hardacre Christopher
Published: June 2017

Three recurring hypotheses are often used to explain the effect of non‐thermal plasmas (NTPs) on NTP catalytic hybrid reactions; namely, modification or heating of the catalyst or creation of new reaction pathways by plasma‐produced species. NTP‐assisted methane (CH4) oxidation over Pd/Al2O3 was investigated by direct monitoring of the X‐ray absorption fine structure of the catalyst, coupled with end‐of‐pipe mass spectrometry. This in situ study revealed that the catalyst did not undergo any significant structural changes under NTP conditions. However, the NTP did lead to an increase in the temperature of the Pd nanoparticles; although this temperature rise was insufficient to activate the thermal CH4 oxidation reaction. The contribution of a lower activation barrier alternative reaction pathway involving the formation of CH3(g) from electron impact reactions is proposed.
Quantification of β‐eudesmol in rat plasma using LC–MS/MS and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Jiang Ligang , Zhang Chunyang , Li Haiping
Published: June 2017

A sensitive and specific LC–MS/MS assay for determination of β‐eudesmol in rat plasma was developed and validated. After liquid–liquid extraction with ethyl ether, the analyte and IS were separated on a Capcell Pak C18 column (50 × 2.0 mm, 5 μm) by isocratic elution with acetonitrile—water–formic acid (77.5:22.5:0.1, v/v/v) as the mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. An ESI source was applied and operated in positive ion mode; a selected reaction monitoring scan was used for quantification by monitoring the precursor–product ion transitions of m/z 245.1 → 163.1 for β‐eudesmol and m/z 273.4 → 81.2 for IS. Good linearity was observed in the concentration range of 3–900 ng/mL for β‐eudesmol in rat plasma. Intra‐ and inter‐day precision and accuracy were both within ±14.3%. This method was applied for pharmacokinetic studies after intravenous bolus of 2.0 mg/kg or intragastric administration of 50 mg/kg β‐eudesmol in rats.
Development of a HPLC method for determination of four UV filters in sunscreen and its application to skin penetration studies
Authors: Souza Carla , Maia Campos Patrícia M.B.G.
Published: June 2017

This study describes the development, validation and application of a high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the simultaneous determination of the in vitro skin penetration profile of four UV filters on porcine skin. Experiments were carried out on a gel‐cream formulation containing the following UV filters: diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate (DHHB), bis‐ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine (BEMT), methylene bis‐benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol (MBBT) and ethylhexyl triazone (EHT). The HPLC method demonstrated suitable selectivity, linearity (10.0–50.0 μg/mL), precision, accuracy and recovery from porcine skin and sunscreen formulation. The in vitro skin penetration profile was evaluated using Franz vertical diffusion cells for 24 h after application on porcine ear skin. None of the UV filters penetrated the porcine skin. Most of them stayed on the skin surface (>90%) and only BEMT, EHT and DHHB reached the dermis plus epidermis layer. These results are in agreement with previous results in the literature. Therefore, the analytical method was useful to evaluate the in vitro skin penetration of the UV filters and may help the development of safer and effective sunscreen products.
A validated UHPLC–MS/MS method for the measurement of riluzole in plasma and myocardial tissue samples
Authors: Parker Suzanne L. , Guerra Valero Yarmarly C. , Lipman Jeffrey , Weiss Steven , Smith Camilla , Russell Lyndal , Smith Paul , Roberts Jason A. , Wallis Steven C.
Published: June 2017

Through blocking the cardiac persistent sodium current, riluzole has the potential to prevent myocardial damage post cardiac bypass surgery. A sensitive UHPLC–MS/MS method was developed and validated for quantitation of riluzole and 5‐methoxypsoralen in human plasma and myocardial tissue homogenate using a liquid–liquid extraction with dichloromethane. The chromatographic separation was achieved using Shimadzu Shim‐pack XR‐ODS III, 2.0 × 50 mm, 1.6 μm column with a gradient mobile phase comprising methanol and ammonium acetate buffer pH 3.6 in purified water. The analyte and internal standard were separated within 3.5 min. Riluzole quantitation was achieved using the mass transitions of 235–138 for riluzole and 217–156 for 5‐methoxypsoralen. The method was linear for riluzole plasma concentrations from 0.2 to 500 ng/mL and myocardial tissue homogenate concentrations from 0.2 to 100 ng/mL. The method developed was successfully applied to a clinical study for patients receiving riluzole while undergoing cardiac bypass surgery.
A highly sensitive LC–MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of glycyrrhizin and its active metabolite glycyrrhetinic acid: Application to a human pharmacokinetic study after oral administration
Authors: Suzuki Tsuneharu , Tsukahara Michiko , Akasaka Yuko , Inoue Hideo
Published: June 2017

A highly sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method for simultaneous determination of glycyrrhizin (GL) and its active metabolite, glycyrrhetinic acid (GA), from human plasma was validated and applied to a human pharmacokinetic study. The analytes were extracted from human plasma using an Oasis MAX cartridge and chromatographic separation was performed on an Inertsil ODS‐3 column. The detection was performed using an API 4000 mass spectrometer operating in the positive electrospray ionization mode. Selected ion monitoring transitions of m/z 823 → 453 for GL and m/z 471 → 149 for GA were obtained. The response was a linear function of concentration over the ranges of 0.5–200 ng/mL for GL and 2–800 ng/mL for GA (both R2 > 0.998). Using this method, the pharmacokinetics of GL after single oral administration of a clinical dose (75 mg) to six healthy male Japanese volunteers were evaluated. GL was detected in the plasma of all subjects and the average peak concentration was 24.8 ± 12.0 ng/mL. In contrast, peak concentration of GA was 200.3 ± 60.3 ng/mL, i.e. ~8‐fold higher than that of GL. This is the first report clarifying pharmacokinetic profiles of GL and GA simultaneously at a therapeutic oral dose of a GL preparation.
LC–MS/MS characterization, anti‐inflammatory effects and antioxidant activities of polyphenols from different tissues of Korean Petasites japonicus (Meowi)
Authors: Choi Jin Young , Desta Kebede Taye , Saralamma Venu Venkatarame Gowda , Lee Sung Joong , Lee Soo Jung , Kim Seong Min , Paramanantham Anjugam , Lee Ho Jeong , Kim Yun‐Hi , Shin Ho‐Chul , Shim Jae‐Han , Warda Mohamad , Hacımüftüoğlu Ahmet , Jeong Ji Hoon , Shin Sung Chul , Kim Gon‐Sup , Abd El‐Aty A. M.
Published: June 2017

The Korean Petasites japonicus is a perennial plant used in folk medicine as a remedy for many diseases and popularly consumed as spring greens. Ten polyphenols were characterized from the leaves, stems and roots of this plant via high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Individual polyphenols were quantified for the first time using calibration curves of six structurally related external standards. Validation data indicated that coefficients of determinations (R2) were ≥0.9702 for all standards. Recoveries measured at 50 and 100 mg/L were 80.0–91.9 and 80.3–105.3%, respectively. Precisions at these two concentration levels were 0.7–6.1 and 1.1–5.5%, respectively. The total number of identified components was largest for the leaves and smallest for the stems. The leaf and root polyphenolic extracts showed anti‐inflammatory effects by inducing LPS‐activated COX‐2 and iNOS protein levels in mouse macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. The antioxidant capacity of the polyphenols, when evaluated for DPPH (α,α‐diphenyl‐β‐picrylhydrazyl)ˑ, ABTS+ [2–2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid)] and superoxide radical scavenging activities, and in ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assays, was highest in the leaf and lowest in the stem. This trend suggests that the antioxidant capacities depend primarily on polyphenol concentration in each tissue. The current findings suggest that polyphenols derived from P. japonicas tissues could have potential as functional health foods.
Lansoprazole‐sulfide, pharmacokinetics of this promising anti‐tuberculous agent
Authors: Mdanda Sipho , Baijnath Sooraj , Shobo Adeola , Singh Sanil D. , Maguire Glenn E.M. , Kruger Hendrik G. , Arvidsson Per I. , Naicker Tricia , Govender Thavendran
Published: June 2017

Lansoprazole (LPZ) is a commercially available proton‐pump inhibitor whose primary metabolite, lansoprazole sulfide (LPZS) was recently reported to have in vitro and in vivo activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It was also reported that a 300 mg kg−1 oral administration of LPZS was necessary to reach therapeutic levels in the lung, with the equivalent human dose being unrealistic. A validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometric method (LC–MS/MS) for the simultaneous quantification LPZ and LPZS in rat plasma and lung homogenates was developed. We administered 15 mg kg−1 oral doses of LPZ to a healthy rat model to determine the pharmacokinetics of its active metabolite, LPZS, in plasma and lung tissue. We found that the LPZS was present in amounts that were below the limit of quantification. This prompted us to administer the same dose of LPZS to the experimental animals intraperitoneally (i.p.). Using this approach, we found high concentrations of LPZS in plasma and lung, 7841.1 and 9761.2 ng mL−1, respectively, which were significantly greater than the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While oral and i.p. administration of LPZ resulted in significant concentrations in the lung, it did not undergo sufficient cellular conversion to its anti‐TB metabolite. However, when LPZS itself was administered i.p., significant amounts penetrated the tissue. These results have implications for future in vivo studies exploring the potential of LPZS as an anti‐TB compound.
Exploration of Spinel LiCrTiO4 as Cathode Material for Rechargeable Mg‐Li Hybrid Batteries
Authors: Yao Ye , Zhang Lu , Bie Xiaofei , Chen Hong , Wang Chunzhong , Du Fei , Chen Gang
Published: June 2017

Mg‐Li hybrid batteries have attracted wide interest in recent years because of their potential safety as well as their cost benefit and high volumetric capacity. However, slow kinetic properties strongly hinder their commercial application. In this study, we have prepared spinel LiCrTiO4 by a solid‐state reaction and have conducted a comprehensive study aimed at improving the performance of Mg‐Li hybrid batteries by optimizing the dual‐salt electrolyte. LiCrTiO4 has been found to show reversible discharge/charge capacities of 178 and 169 mA h g−1 in electrolytes of 1 m LiCl and 0.3 m APC (all‐phenyl‐complex), respectively. When the concentration of APC was increased to 0.4 m, LiCrTiO4 showed a high capacity retention of 95 % after 30 cycles. In addition, no phase transition could be observed for an LiCrTiO4 electrode in a dual‐salt system, suggesting high electrochemical reversibility. Ex situ EDX and SEM studies have indicated that only Li+ ions are inserted into the cathode side, while Mg2+ ions are reversibly deposited on the surface of Mg metal without dendrite‐like growth, indicative of good safety of the Mg‐Li hybrid batteries.
Stimuli‐Responsive Metal–Organic Framework (MOF) with Chemo‐Switchable Properties for Colorimetric Detection of CHCl3
Authors: Razavi Sayed Ali Akbar , Masoomi Mohammad Yaser , Morsali Ali
Published: June 2017

The ligands 3,6‐di(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐1,4‐dihydro‐1,2,4,5‐tetrazine (H2DPT), as a pillar spacer, and 4,4′‐oxybis(benzoic acid) (H2OBA), as a dicarboxylate linker, have been used to develop a dihydrotetrazine‐functionalized pillared metal–organic framework (MOF), [Zn(OBA)(H2DPT)0.5]⋅DMF (TMU‐34), as a functionally convertible stimuli‐responsive MOF‐based sensor. Sonochemically synthesized TMU‐34 powder has been employed in the sensing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The results show that TMU‐34 can act as a solid‐state, naked‐eye visual chemosensor for the detection of chloroform in the liquid and gas phases. TMU‐34, as a chemo‐switchable MOF with rapid response, undergoes a significant color change from yellow to pink through reversible dynamic conversion of dihydrotetrazine into tetrazine upon exposure to chloroform in the presence of other VOCs. Whereas other colorimetric MOF‐based sensors show a wide range of color changes in the presence of different analytes, TMU‐34 undergoes a color change only in the presence of chloroform. A mechanism for the observed color change is proposed on the basis of UV/Vis and 1H NMR spectroscopic studies. These observations reveal that TMU‐34 represents one of the most promising candidates for the highly selective and sensitive detection of chloroform.
Direct C2‐Functionalization of Indoles Triggered by the Generation of Iminium Species from Indole and Sulfonium Salt
Authors: Tayu Masanori , Nomura Kazuya , Kawachi Koki , Higuchi Kazuhiro , Saito Nozomi , Kawasaki Tomomi
Published: June 2017

An indole core bearing a functional group on the C2 position is often found as a key structure in biologically active natural products and pharmaceuticals. Here, we report direct C2‐functionalization of indoles triggered by the formation of an iminium species generated from indole and a sulfonium reagent. The reaction proceeded under very mild conditions to give the corresponding C2‐substituted indole derivatives in good to high yields.
The validity of DSM‐5 severity specifiers for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge‐eating disorder
Authors: Smith Kathryn E. , Ellison Jo M. , Crosby Ross D. , Engel Scott G. , Mitchell James E. , Crow Scott J. , Peterson Carol B. , Le Grange Daniel , Wonderlich Stephen A.
Published: June 2017

Objective

The DSM‐5 includes severity specifiers (i.e., mild, moderate, severe, extreme) for anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge‐eating disorder (BED), which are determined by weight status (AN) and frequencies of binge‐eating episodes (BED) or inappropriate compensatory behaviors (BN). Given limited data regarding the validity of eating disorder (ED) severity specifiers, this study examined the concurrent and predictive validity of severity specifiers in AN, BN, and BED.

Method

Adults with AN (n = 109), BN (n = 76), and BED (n = 216) were identified from previous datasets. Concurrent validity was assessed by measures of ED psychopathology, depression, anxiety, quality of life, and physical health. Predictive validity was assessed by ED symptoms at the end of the treatment in BN and BED.

Results

Severity categories did not differ in baseline validators, though the mild AN group evidenced greater ED symptoms compared to the severe group. In BN, greater severity was related to greater end of treatment binge‐eating and compensatory behaviors, and lower likelihood of abstinence; however, in BED, greater severity was related to lower ED symptoms at the end of the treatment.

Discussion

Results demonstrated limited support for the validity of DSM‐5 severity specifiers. Future research is warranted to explore additional validators and possible alternative indicators of severity in EDs.
Effect of habitat degradation on competition, carrying capacity, and species assemblage stability
Authors: Calizza Edoardo , Costantini Maria Letizia , Careddu Giulio , Rossi Loreto
Published: June 2017

Changes in species’ trophic niches due to habitat degradation can affect intra‐ and interspecific competition, with implications for biodiversity persistence. Difficulties of measuring species’ interactions in the field limit our comprehension of competition outcomes along disturbance gradients. Thus, information on how habitat degradation can destabilize food webs is scarce, hindering predictions regarding responses of multispecies systems to environmental changes. Seagrass ecosystems are undergoing degradation. We address effects of Posidonia oceanica coverage reduction on the trophic organization of a macroinvertebrate community in the Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy), hypothesizing increased trophic generalism, niche overlap among species and thus competition and decreased community stability due to degraded conditions. Census data, isotopic analysis, and Bayesian mixing models were used to quantify the trophic niches of three abundant invertebrate species, and intra‐ and interspecific isotopic and resource‐use similarity across locations differing in seagrass coverage. This allowed the computation of (1) competition strength, with respect to each other and remaining less abundant species and (2) habitat carrying capacity. To explore effects of the spatial scale on the interactions, we considered both individual locations and the entire study area (“‘meadow scale”). We observed that community stability and habitat carrying capacity decreased as P. oceanica coverage declined, whereas niche width, similarity of resource use and interspecific competition strength between species increased. Competition was stronger, and stability lower, at the meadow scale than at the location scale. Indirect effects of competition and the spatial compartmentalization of species interactions increased stability. Results emphasized the importance of trophic niche modifications for understanding effects of habitat loss on biodiversity persistence. Calculation of competition coefficients based on isotopic distances is a promising tool for describing competitive interactions in real communities, potentially extendible to any subset of ecological niche axes for which specimens’ positions and pairwise distances can be obtained.
Characterization of natural variation in North American Atlantic Salmon populations (Salmonidae: Salmo salar) at a locus with a major effect on sea age
Authors: Kusche Henrik , Côté Guillaume , Hernandez Cécilia , Normandeau Eric , Boivin‐Delisle Damien , Bernatchez Louis
Published: June 2017

Age at maturity is a key life‐history trait of most organisms. In anadromous salmonid fishes such as Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar), age at sexual maturity is associated with sea age, the number of years spent at sea before the spawning migration. For the first time, we investigated the presence of two nonsynonymous vgll3 polymorphisms in North American Atlantic Salmon populations that relate to sea age in European salmon and quantified the natural variation at these and two additional candidate SNPs from two other genes. A targeted resequencing assay was developed and 1,505 returning adult individuals of size‐inferred sea age and sex from four populations were genotyped. Across three of four populations sampled in Québec, Canada, the late‐maturing component (MSW) of the population of a given sex exhibited higher proportions of SNP genotypes 54Thrvgll3 and 323Lysvgll3 compared to early‐maturing fish (1SW), for example, 85% versus 53% of females from Trinité River carried 323Lysvgll3 (nMSW = 205 vs. n1SW = 30; p < .001). However, the association between vgll3 polymorphism and sea age was more pronounced in females than in males in the rivers we studied. Logistic regression analysis of vgll3 SNP genotypes revealed increased probabilities of exhibiting higher sea age for 54Thrvgll3 and 323Lysvgll3 genotypes compared to alternative genotypes, depending on population and sex. Moreover, individuals carrying the heterozygous vgll3 SNP genotypes were more likely (>66%) to be female. In summary, two nonsynonymous vgll3 polymorphisms were confirmed in North American populations of Atlantic Salmon and our results suggest that variation at those loci correlates with sea age and sex. Our results also suggest that this correlation varies among populations. Future work would benefit from a more balanced sampling and from adding data on juvenile riverine life stages to contrast our data.
Clinical presentation at first heart failure hospitalization does not predict recurrent heart failure admission
Authors: Kosztin Annamaria , Costa Jason , Moss Arthur J. , Biton Yitschak , Nagy Vivien Klaudia , Solomon Scott D. , Geller Laszlo , McNitt Scott , Polonsky Bronislava , Merkely Bela , Kutyifa Valentina
Published: June 2017

Aims

There are limited data on whether clinical presentation at first heart failure (HF) hospitalization predicts recurrent HF events. We aimed to assess predictors of recurrent HF hospitalizations in mild HF patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator or cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator.

Methods and results

Data on HF hospitalizations were prospectively collected for patients enrolled in MADIT‐CRT. Predictors of recurrent HF hospitalization (HF2) after the first HF hospitalization were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression models including baseline covariates and clinical presentation or management at first HF hospitalization. There were 193 patients with first HF hospitalization, and 156 patients with recurrent HF events. Recurrent HF rate after the first HF hospitalization was 43% at 1 year, 52% at 2 years, and 55% at 2.5 years. Clinical signs and symptoms, medical treatment, or clinical management of HF at first HF admission was not predictive for HF2. Baseline covariates predicting recurrent HF hospitalization included prior HF hospitalization (HR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.15–2.20, P = 0.005), digitalis therapy (HR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.13–2.20, P = 0.008), and left ventricular end‐diastolic volume >240 mL (HR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.17–2.25, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Recurrent HF events are frequent following the first HF hospitalization in patients with implanted implantable cardioverter defibrillator or cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator. Neither clinical presentation nor clinical management during first HF admission was predictive of recurrent HF. Prior HF hospitalization, digitalis therapy, and left ventricular end‐diastolic volume at enrolment predicted recurrent HF hospitalization, and these covariates could be used as surrogate markers for identifying a high‐risk cohort.
“The Last Block of Ice”: Trauma Literature in the High School Classroom
Authors: Moore Amber , Begoray Deborah
Published: June 2017

This article explores the potential of using trauma literature in the secondary high school classroom, drawing from a case study that explored grade 10 secondary students’ responses to a trauma story. These responses were primarily collected from their digital writing and reveal a number of interesting findings, including the expression of anger and aggression in their writing, discussions of combating depression, and engaging in supportive communication. In addition, some students did not address some expected topics, so there were some interesting silences that emerged in the study.
Enhancing Digital Literacy and Learning Among Adults With Blogs
Authors: Sharp Laurie A.
Published: June 2017

Digital literacy and learning among adults has been identified as an area requiring research. The purpose of the present study was to explore technology acceptance and digital collaborative learning experiences with blogs among adult learners. This analysis employed a quasi‐experimental mixed‐methods approach guided by a sociocultural theoretical framework. Participants were graduate students (n = 46), and data were collected through pre‐ and postsurvey instruments. Quantitative analyses were conducted using paired sample t‐tests, which revealed statistically significant findings regarding determinants of technology acceptance. Qualitative analyses were conducted using grounded theory analytic techniques, which revealed four core conceptual categories: cautionary aspects and constraints, personal and communal dimensions, learner dispositions, and affordances. A discussion of these categories and examples of supportive data was provided. Based on these findings, implications for adult educators are described regarding strategies to enhance technology acceptance and the design of digital collaborative learning experiences among adult learners.
In vivo characterisation of a therapeutically relevant self‐assembling 18F‐labelled β‐sheet forming peptide and its hydrogel using positron emission tomography
Authors: Morris O. , Elsawy M.A. , Fairclough M. , Williams K.J. , Mcmahon A. , Grigg J. , Forster D. , Miller A.F. , Saiani A. , Prenant C.
Published: June 2017

Positron emission tomography (PET) and fluorescence labelling have been used to assess the pharmacokinetics, biodistribution and eventual fate of a hydrogel‐forming nonapeptide, FEFKFEFKK (F9), in healthy mice, using 18F‐labelled and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐labelled F9 analogues. F9 was site‐specifically radiolabelled with 2‐[18F]fluoro‐3‐pyridinecarboxaldehyde ([18F]FPCA) via oxime bond formation. [18F]FPCA‐F9 in vivo fate was evaluated both as a solution, following intravenous administration, and as a hydrogel when subcutaneously injected. The behaviour of FITC‐F9 hydrogel was assessed following subcutaneous injection. [18F]FPCA‐F9 demonstrated high plasma stability and primarily renal excretion; [18F]FPCA‐F9 when in solution and injected into the bloodstream displayed prompt bladder uptake (53.4 ± 16.6 SUV at 20 minutes postinjection) and rapid renal excretion, whereas [18F]FPCA‐F9 hydrogel, formed by co‐assembly of [18F]FPCA‐F9 monomer with unfunctionalised F9 peptide and injected subcutaneously, showed gradual bladder accumulation of hydrogel fragments (3.8 ± 0.4 SUV at 20 minutes postinjection), resulting in slower renal excretion. Gradual disaggregation of the F9 hydrogel from the site of injection was monitored using FITC‐F9 hydrogel in healthy mice (60 ± 3 over 96 hours), indicating a biological half‐life between 1 and 4 days. The in vivo characterisation of F9, both as a gel and a solution, highlights its potential as a biomaterial.
Vincristine‐induced neuropathy in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Oman: Frequent autonomic and more severe cranial nerve involvement
Authors: Nazir Hanan F. , AlFutaisi Amna , Zacharia Mathew , Elshinawy Mohamed , Mevada Surekha T. , Alrawas Abdulhakim , Khater Doaa , Jaju Deepali , Wali Yasser
Published: June 2017

Background

Vincristine (VCR) induced peripheral neuropathy is a common complication in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Procedures

A retrospective data analysis over an interval of 10 years (2006–2016) of all children with ALL seen at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital was carried out. Electronic medical records of eligible patients were reviewed. Patients with clinical evidence of neuropathy and abnormal nerve conduction studies (NCSs) were included in the study.

Results

Nineteen (nine females and 10 males) out of 103 pediatric patients developed VCR‐related neuropathy, and their age ranged between 2.5 and 14 years. Symptoms started after 2–11 doses of VCR. All 19 patients had documented peripheral neuropathy on NCSs. The autonomic nervous system and cranial nerves affection was relatively common in our patients; two presented with bradycardia, two patients with unexplained tachycardia, and five had abdominal pain and constipation, complicated by typhlitis in two patients. One patient developed unilateral hearing loss. Two patients developed severe life‐threatening cranial nerve involvement with bilateral ptosis and recurrent laryngeal nerve involvement presented as vocal cord paralysis, hoarseness of voice, frequent chocking, and aspiration episodes.

Conclusions

Peripheral neuropathy was the commonest form of VCR‐related neuropathy. Autonomic neuropathy was relatively common in our patients. Cranial neuropathy is a serious side effect of VCR that can be severe, involving multiple cranial nerves and needs prompt recognition and management. Concomitant administration of pyridoxine and pyridostigmine does not seem to protect against further neurological damage in some patients.
Population Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics of 3,4‐Diaminopyridine Free Base in Patients With Lambert‐Eaton Myasthenia
Authors: Thakkar Nilay , Guptill Jeffrey T. , Aleš Kathy , Jacobus David , Jacobus Laura , Peloquin Charles , Cohen‐Wolkowiez Michael , Gonzalez Daniel ,   for the DAPPER Study Group
Published: June 2017

Lambert‐Eaton myasthenia (LEM) is a rare autoimmune disorder associated with debilitating muscle weakness. There are limited treatment options and 3,4‐diaminopyridine (3,4‐DAP) free base is an investigational orphan drug used to treat LEM‐related weakness. We performed a population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis using 3,4‐DAP and metabolite concentrations collected from a phase II study in patients with LEM. The Triple Timed Up & Go (3TUG) assessment, which measures lower extremity weakness, was the primary outcome measure. A total of 1,270 PK samples (49 patients) and 1,091 3TUG data points (32 randomized patients) were included in the PK/PD analysis. A two‐compartment and one‐compartment model for parent and metabolite, respectively, described the PK data well. Body weight and serum creatinine partially explained the variability in clearance for the final PK model. A fractional inhibitory maximum effect (Emax) model characterized the exposure‐response relationship well. The PK/PD model was applied to identify a suggested dosing approach for 3,4‐DAP free base.
Effect of modification extent of montmorillonite on the performance of starch nanocomposite films
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhang Jinli , Gao Yuling , Wang Wentao , Dong Haizhou , Hou Hanxue , Liu Xingxun
Published: June 2017

The mechanism of the influence of organically modified montmorillonites (OMts) with different modification extents on starch/OMt nanocomposites was investigated. The nanostructures of OMts and their dispersion in starch films were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. The modifier content in the OMts increased with an increase in the added amount and molecular weight of the modifiers. The highest d‐spacing of 3.71 nm was achieved for the OMt modified with 30% dioctadecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC). Intercalated nanostructures were formed between starch and the OMts modified with DDAC, whereas exfoliated nanostructures were formed between starch and the OMts modified with octadecyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (OAC) and octadecyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (ODBAC). The films with the OMt modified with 50% DDAC exhibited the highest tensile strength of 6.22 MPa. The water vapor permeability (WVP) of the film with the OMt modified with 30% DDAC exhibited a minimum value of 1.63 × 10−10 g · m/m2 · s · Pa. The amount and types of the modifiers in the OMts significantly influenced the structure and properties of the starch/clay nanocomposites. For a given polymer, the modification extent of Mt should be optimized to achieve high‐performance nanocomposites.
Anti‐mutagenic Properties of Mono‐ and Dienoic Acid Biohydrogenation Products from Beef Fat
Authors: Visvalingam Jeyachchandran , Vahmani Payam , Rolland David C. , Dugan Michael E. R. , Yang Xianqin
Published: June 2017

Unsaturated fatty acid biohydrogenation products from beef fat and pure fatty acids were subjected to the Ames Salmonella mutagenicity testing, including monounsaturated fatty acids [MUFA: oleic acid, vaccenic acid, elaidic acid; beef fatty acid fractions rich in trans (t)11/t13‐t14‐18:1 (t11,13,14‐Frac), t10‐18:1 (t10‐Frac)] and dienoic fatty acids [linoleic acid, conjugated linoleic isomers cis (c)9,t11‐18:2 and t10,c12‐18:2, and a mixed beef dienoic fatty acid fraction high in c9,t13‐/t8,c12/t11c15‐18:2 (MD)]. Significantly higher anti‐mutagenic effects of oleic acid, vaccenic acid, t11, 13, 14‐Frac, and t10‐Frac against daunomycin were observed at 2.5 mg. All dienoic acids except MD significantly reduced daunomycin mutagenicity at ≥0.25 mg. Anti‐mutagenicity of oleic and vaccenic acids against 2‐aminoanthracene was found at 2.5 and 0.25 mg, respectively. All dienoic acids significantly reduced 2‐aminoanthracene mutagenicity at ≥0.25 mg. Findings of this study show that unsaturated fatty acids, including trans‐fatty acids commonly found in beef, can act as strong anti‐mutagens.
In Vitro Biotransformation, Safety, and Chemopreventive Action of Novel 8-Methoxy-Purine-2,6-Dione Derivatives
Authors: Marć Małgorzata Anna , Domínguez-Álvarez Enrique , Słoczyńska Karolina , Żmudzki Paweł , Chłoń-Rzepa Grażyna , Pękala Elżbieta
Published: June 2017

Metabolic stability, mutagenicity, antimutagenicity, and the ability to scavenge free radicals of four novel 8-methoxy-purine-2,6-dione derivatives (compounds 1–4) demonstrating analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties were determined. Metabolic stability was evaluated in Cunninghamella and microsomal models, mutagenic and antimutagenic properties were assessed using the Ames and the Vibrio harveyi tests, and free radical scavenging activity was evaluated with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay. In the Cunninghamella model, compound 2 did not undergo any biotransformation; whereas 3 and 4 showed less metabolic stability: 1–9 and 53–88% of the parental compound, respectively, underwent biotransformation reactions in different Cunninghamella strains. The metabolites detected after the biotransformation of 3 and 4 were aromatic hydroxylation and N-dealkylation products. On the other hand, the N-dealkylation product was the only metabolite formed in microsome assay. Additionally, these derivatives do not possess mutagenic potential in microbiological models (Vibrio harveyi and Salmonella typhimurium) considered. Moreover, all compounds showed a strong chemopreventive activity in the modified Vibrio harveyi strains BB7X and BB7M. However, radical scavenging activity was not the mechanism which explained the observed chemopreventive activity.
Creación de un método de integración de grupos de interés al gobierno de las empresas
Authors: Volpentesta Jorge Roberto
Published: June 2017

La teoría de los stakeholders plantea idealmente la participación efectiva de estos en el gobierno de las empresas. Aunque existe consenso académico y empresarial para integrarlos a la gestión, la doctrina y la práctica empresarial no presentan instrumentos técnicos adecuados para su concreción. Verificado este hecho por revisión bibliográfica e investigación de campo en 20 empresas multinacionales, se propuso el objetivo de crear un método, basado en la ética dialógica, destinado a facilitar la integración progresiva y gradual de stakeholders no accionariales a los procesos de toma de decisiones, como expresión de su participación en el gobierno de las empresas. Para ello se trabajó sobre los resultados de la investigación en 20 empresas y la experiencia estructurada brindada por la bibliografía especializada.
Prevalence of Bleeding Complications Following Ultrasound‐Guided Botulinum Toxin Injections in Patients on Anticoagulation or Antiplatelet Therapy
Authors: LaVallee Jeffrey , Royer Regan , Smith Geoffrey
Published: June 2017

Background

Patients receiving anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy may be at higher risk for bleeding complications following intramuscular chemodenervation injections. Musculoskeletal ultrasound may be able to reduce the risk of bleeding complications by providing real‐time visualization of vascular structures and postinjection monitoring. Limited data exist addressing the risk of bleeding complications following ultrasound‐guided botulinum neurotoxin intramuscular chemodenervation procedures in the setting of anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy.

Objective

To provide initial outcome data regarding bleeding complications in patients on anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy who have received ultrasound‐guided botulinum neurotoxin intramuscular chemodenervation procedures.

Design

Retrospective, medical record review.

Setting

Academic institution outpatient spasticity clinic.

Participants

Total of 328 ultrasound‐guided intramuscular botulinum toxin injections performed in 15 patients (mean age 53.8 years) with the predominant indication for chemodenervation being spastic paresis secondary to stroke.

Methods

The medical records of all patients undergoing ultrasound‐guided intramuscular chemodenervation procedures performed between July 1, 2011, and October 16, 2015, were reviewed for demographic information, details regarding anticoagulation therapy, procedure specifics, and postinjection bleeding complications. All patients had a postinjection ultrasound to screen for hematoma.

Main Outcome Measures

Prevalence of clinically significant bleeding complications and of sonographically documented subclinical bleeding complications following ultrasound‐guided chemodenervation procedures in patients on anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy.

Results

Of 328 procedures, only 2 subclinical hematomas were detected, resulting in a bleeding complication rate of 0.61% in this patient population. The target muscles in these cases were tibialis posterior and pronator teres, and both cases were in patients on anticoagulation therapy (as opposed to antiplatelet therapy).

Conclusions

The risk of clinically significant bleeding complication appears to be very small following ultrasound‐guided intramuscular chemodenervation procedures in the setting of systemic anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy.

Level of Evidence

IV
Association of Hip Radiograph Findings With Pain and Function in Patients Presenting With Low Back Pain
Authors: Prather Heidi , Cheng Abby , Steger‐May Karen , Maheshwari Vaibhav , VanDillen Linda
Published: June 2017

Background

Relationships between low back pain (LBP) and the hip in patient cohorts have been described primarily in patients with moderate to severe hip osteoarthritis (OA). Less is known about the links of LBP with hip radiographic findings of hip deformity and minimal OA.

Objective

To describe the incidence of radiographic hip deformity or hip OA; to describe and compare spine‐ and hip‐related pain and function in the subset of patients who were found to have radiographic hip deformity or hip OA; and to compare patients with evidence of radiographic hip deformity or hip OA to patients without hip radiographic findings.

Design

Prospective cohort study with cross‐sectional design.

Setting

Tertiary university.

Patients

A total of 63 patients (40 women, 23 men) with a mean age of 48.5 ± 14 years with LBP and a minimum of one positive provocative hip test.

Methods

Hip radiographs were assessed by an independent examiner for hip OA and deformity.

Main Outcome Measurements

Comparisons of hip and lumbar spine pain and function were completed for patients with radiographic findings of hip OA or deformity.

Results

Moderate to severe hip OA was found in 12 of 60 patients (20.0%). At least one measurement of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) was found in 14 of 60 patients (23.3%) to 33 of 45 patients (73.3%). At least one measurement of developmental hip dysplasia (DDH) was found in 7 of 60 patients (11.6%) to 11 of 63 patients (17.4%). Greater pain and reduced hip and lumbar spine function were found in the patients with moderate to severe hip OA. Patients with LBP and FAI were found to have significantly greater extremes of pain and reduced lumbar spine function.

Conclusion

Links between the hip and the spine affecting pain and function may be found in patients with LBP and hip deformity and before the onset of radiographic hip OA, and may be associated with hip deformity. Further investigation is needed to better understand these links and their potential impact on prognosis and treatment of LBP.

Level of Evidence

II
Efficacy and Safety of AbobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport) for the Treatment of Hemiparesis in Adults With Upper Limb Spasticity Previously Treated With Botulinum Toxin: Subanalysis From a Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Marciniak Christina , McAllister Peter , Walker Heather , Brashear Allison , Edgley Steven , Deltombe Thierry , Khatkova Svetlana , Banach Marta , Gul Fatma , Vilain Claire , Picaut Philippe , Grandoulier Anne‐Sophie , Gracies Jean‐Michel ,   International AbobotulinumtoxinA Adult Upper Limb Spasticity Study Group
Published: June 2017

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of abobotulinumtoxinA in adults with upper limb spasticity previously treated with botulinum toxin A (BoNT‐A).

Design

A post hoc analysis from a Phase 3, prospective, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study (NCT01313299).

Setting

A total of 34 neurology or rehabilitation clinics in 9 countries.

Participants

Adults aged 18‐80 years with hemiparesis, ≥6 months after stroke or traumatic brain injury. This analysis focused on a subgroup of subjects with previous onabotulinumtoxinA or incobotulinumtoxinA treatment (n = 105 of 243 in the total trial population) in the affected limb. The mean age was 52 years, and 62% were male.

Intervention

Study subjects were randomized 1:1:1 to receive a single injection session with abobotulinumtoxinA 500 or 1000 U or with placebo in the most hypertonic muscle group among the elbow, wrist, or finger flexors (primary target muscle group [PTMG]), and ≥2 additional muscle groups from the upper limb.

Main Outcome Measurements

Efficacy and safety measures were assessed, including muscle tone (Modified Ashworth Scale [MAS] in the PTMG), Physician Global Assessment (PGA), perceived function, spasticity, active movement, and treatment‐emergent adverse events.

Results

At week 4, more subjects had ≥1 grade improvement in MAS for the PTMG with abobotulinumtoxinA versus placebo (abobotulinumtoxinA 500 U, 81.1%; abobotulinumtoxinA 1000 U, 75.0%; placebo, 25.0%). PGA scores ≥1 were achieved by 75.7% and 87.5% of abobotulinumtoxinA 500 and 1000 U subjects versus 41.7% with placebo. Perceived function (Disability Assessment Scale), spasticity angle (Tardieu Scale), and active movement were also improved with abobotulinumtoxinA. There were no treatment‐related deaths or serious adverse events.

Conclusions

The efficacy and safety of abobotulinumtoxinA in subjects previously treated with BoNT‐A were consistent with those in the total trial population. Hence, abobotulinumtoxinA is a treatment option in these patients, and no difference in initial dosing appears to be required compared to that in individuals not treated previously.

Level of Evidence

III
Deforestation Effects as Different as Night and Day
Authors: Witman Sarah
Published: June 2017

Study investigates how deforestation can cause different land surface temperature effects depending on the time of day.
Lab Experiments Show How Fault Surfaces Get Groovy
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: June 2017

Formation of nanometer-scale quartz beads could promote linear “slickenline” patterns and facilitate fault movement.
Significantly improved dielectric performances of sandwich-structured polymer composites induced by alternating positive-k and negative-k layers
Authors: Shi Zhicheng , Wang Jing , Mao Fan , Yang Chaoqiang , Zhang Chao , Fan Runhua
Published: June 2017

A significantly enhanced dielectric constant and suppressed loss were simultaneously achieved in sandwich-structured composites consisting of alternating positive-k and negative-k layers.
A near-ideal color rendering white solid-state lighting device copackaged with two color-separated Cu–X–S (X = Ga, In) quantum dot emitters
Authors: Kim Jong-Hoon , Kim Bu-Yong , Jang Eun-Pyo , Han Chang-Yeol , Jo Jung-Ho , Do Young Rag , Yang Heesun
Published: June 2017

A near-ideal color rendering white lighting device was demonstrated with the combination of two color-separated green Cu–Ga–S and red Cu–In–S quantum dots.
Cellular and disease functions of the Prader–Willi Syndrome geneMAGEL2
Authors: Tacer Klementina Fon , Potts Patrick Ryan
Published: June 2017

Melanoma antigen L2 (MAGEL2 or MAGE-L2) is a member of the MAGE family of ubiquitin ligase regulators. It is maternally imprinted and often paternally deleted or mutated in the related neurodevelopmental syndromes, Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS) and Schaaf–Yang Syndrome (SHFYNG). MAGEL2 is highly expressed in the hypothalamus and plays an important role in a fundamental cellular process that recycles membrane proteins from endosomes through the retromer sorting pathway. MAGEL2 is part of a multi-subunit protein complex consisting of MAGEL2, the TRIM27 E3 ubiquitin ligase, and the USP7 deubiquitinating enzyme. The MAGEL2-USP7-TRIM27 (or MUST) complex facilitates the retromer recycling pathway through ubiquitination and activation of the WASH actin nucleation promoting factor. This review provides an overview of the MAGE protein family of ubiquitin ligases regulators and details the molecular and cellular role of MAGEL2 in ubiquitination, actin regulation and endosomal sorting processes, as well as MAGEL2 implications in PWS and SHFYNG disorders. The physiological functions of MAGEL2, elucidated through the study of Magel2 knockout mouse models, are also discussed.
Sidelobe reduction of large‐scale antenna array for 5G beamforming via hierarchical cuckoo search
Authors: Sun Geng , Liu Yanheng , Li Jionghui , Zhang Ying , Wang Aimin
Published: June 2017

Large‐scale antenna array (LSAA) is one of the key factors as well as a fundamental technology in fifth generation wireless communication systems. Beampattern sidelobe (SL) suppressing is a complex nonlinear optimisation problem, especially for LSAAs, because of the high‐dimensional solution space. A SL reduction method for LSAA based on a hierarchical cuckoo search (HCS) algorithm is proposed. HCS divides the candidate solutions into different levels to improve population utilisation, so that it is suitable for dealing with large‐scale elements. The effectiveness of the proposed method for synthesis of the beampattern of LSAA is verified by theoretical and EM simulations.
Low‐complexity MMSE‐based integrated equalisation for MIMO systems with HARQ
Authors: Park S.
Published: June 2017

Low‐complexity minimum‐mean‐square error (MMSE)‐based integrated equalisation (IEQ) for multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems with hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) is proposed. In the proposed MMSE‐based IEQ, the calculations of the MMSE filtering vector for each symbol in the conventional MMSE‐based IEQ are newly derived in a simplified form. This not only allows the proposed IEQ to have the same MMSE filtering vector to the conventional IEQ but it also allows the matrix size to be inverted and the number of matrix inversions are also significantly decreased. Therefore, without sacrificing the error performance, the proposed IEQ requires a significantly lower computational complexity than the conventional IEQ as the number of inputs increases. Furthermore, the proposed IEQ can outperform the MMSE‐based iterative equalisation with the log‐likelihood ratio‐level combining in terms of both error performance and computational complexity.
Uniplanar dual‐band printed compound loop antenna for WLAN/WiMAX applications
Authors: Liu Fei , Xu Kuiwen , Zhao Peng , Dong Linxi , Wang Gaofeng
Published: June 2017

A novel uniplanar dual‐band printed compound loop antenna for WLAN/WiMAX applications is proposed. The proposed antenna consists of a small inner rectangular ring, an outer rectangular loop with three slits and a parasitic strip on one side of the substrate. Fed by the inner ring and collaborated with double rings and the parasitic strip, three resonant frequencies can be achieved, where the parasitic metallic strip between the rings can not only induce a new middle resonant frequency but also improve the impedance matching at the low‐frequency band greatly. By magnetic‐electrical coupling, dual‐band performance with the lower‐wide band covering 2.37–3.78 GHz and the upper‐frequency band covering 5.15–5.85 GHz can be obtained. It is experimentally demonstrated that the proposed antenna with the performance of broadband (covering 2.4/5 GHz WLAN including 2.4–2.484 GHz, 5.15–5.825 GHz and 3.5/5 GHz WiMAX including 3.4–3.69 GHz, 5.25–5.85 GHz, respectively), good dipole‐like radiation characteristics, stable gain and high‐radiation efficiency, is an excellent candidate for WLAN/WiMAX applications.