bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The simultaneous UPLC–MS/MS determination of emerging drug combination; candesartan and chlorthalidone in human plasma and its application
Authors: Patel Bhargav , Jangid Arvind G. , Suhagia B.N. , Desai Nirmal
Published: February 2017

A novel, precise, sensitive and accurate ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of a novel drug combination, candesartan (CAN) and chlorthalidone (CHL), in human plasma. Chromatographic separation was achieved on Waters Acquity UPLC BEH C18 (50 × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm). Mobile phase consisting of 1 mm ammonium acetate in water–acetonitrile (20:80 v/v) was used. The total chromatographic runtime was 1.9 min with retention times for CAN and CHL at 0.7 and 1.1 min respectively. Ionization and detection of analytes and internal standards was performed on a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer, operating in the multiple reaction monitoring and negative ionization mode. Quantitation was done to monitor protonated precursor → product ion transition of m/z 439.2 → 309.0 for CAN, 337.0 → 189.8 for CHL and 443.2 → 312.1 for candesartan D4 and 341.0 → 189.8 for chlorthalidone D4. The method was validated over a wide dynamic concentration range of 2.0–540.0 ng/mL for candesartan and 1.0–180.0 ng/mL for chlorthalidone. The validated method was successfully applied for the assay of CAN and CHL in healthy volunteers.
Chemical composition differentiation of Shen‐Shuai‐Ning granule between combined decoction and separated decoction using HPLC‐DAD‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS
Authors: Liu Jianli , Zhang Yu , Hao Yimeng , Zhao Ying , Li Yanjiao , Qin Rulan , Lv Chongning , Lu Jincai
Published: February 2017

Shen‐Shuai‐Ning (SSN) granule, a traditional Chinese medicine formula, is widely used in clinical practice for treating chronic renal failure. However, its detailed chemical profile is unknown. Here, HPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS was employed for the systematic chemical analysis of SSN. A total of 52 compounds were identified and the characteristic ions of the compounds were described. Furthermore, chemical consistency between the combined decoction and the separated decoction of SSN was evaluated using HPLC‐DAD. A chemical comparison between two preparations of SSN granule (combined decoction and separated decoction of Coptides Rhizoma) indicated a significant difference in the content of many compounds, including salvianolic acid A, salvianolic acid B, berberine, palmatine and epiberberine. As a result, separated decoction of Coptides Rhizoma would lead to a significantly decrease in depsides in Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma and an increase in alkaloids in Coptidis Rhizoma.
Bifunctional Catalysts Based on Tungsten Hydrides Supported on Silicated Alumina for the Direct Production of 2,3‐Dimethylbutenes and Neohexene from Isobutene
Authors: Larabi Cherif , Garron Anthony , Rouge Pascal , Szeto Kai C. , Norsic Sébastien , De Mallmann Aimery , Merle Nicolas , Taoufik Mostafa
Published: February 2017

Well‐defined bifunctional supported catalysts that comprise tungsten hydride moieties and Brønsted acid sites were prepared successfully. The catalysts showed outstanding activities and selectivities toward the formation of high‐value‐added products, 2,3‐dimethylbutenes and 3,3‐dimethylbutene, through a combination of the metathesis and dimerization of isobutene. The relationship between the physicochemical properties of the catalysts and their activities and selectivities indicated that isobutene conversion increased from 4 to 95 % as a function of the silica content of the silicated alumina (obtained from Sasol). Nevertheless, the selectivity toward branched hexenes showed a volcano‐shaped curve that presented a maximum for the catalyst with 5 wt % silica. Therefore, the control of the support acidity by the silica loading on alumina resulted in an increase of the selectivity toward neohexene.
Synergistic Effect of Flakes Containing Interconnected Nanoparticles and Conducting Graphene Additive to Qualify ZnMn2O4 as Potential Lithium‐Battery Anode
Authors: Sekhar Bongu Chandra , Packiyalakshmi Parameswaran , Kalaiselvi Nallathamby
Published: February 2017

ZnMn2O4 flakes, composed of interconnected nanoparticles were synthesized by using a hydrothermal technique and treated subsequently with nitrogen‐doped graphene (NG) to obtain a composite containing graphene sheets decorated with ZnMn2O4 nanoparticles. When explored as a lithium‐battery anode, ZnMn2O4/NG exhibits a superior electrochemical performance compared to a pristine ZnMn2O4 anode. Interestingly, the ZnMn2O4/NG composite anode displays a steady‐state reversible capacity of 1400 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1, which is higher than the theoretical capacity and the highest ever capacity achieved so far, with respect to the ZnMn2O4 electrode material. Furthermore, the nanocomposite anode shows a stable capacity of 790 mAh g−1 up to 1000 cycles and the corresponding coulombic efficiency is 99 % at 500 mA g−1, exhibiting excellent rate capability. The superior electrochemical performance of the ZnMn2O4/NG anode may be ascribed to the multiple synergistic advantages offered by NG, such as enhanced electrode conductivity, maintenance of structural integrity upon cycling, and the effective accommodation of volume changes during charging and discharging. Our results indicate that the synthesized ZnMn2O4/NG nanocomposite anode could be considered as a promising candidate for next‐generation high‐rate lithium‐ion‐battery applications.
Double‐Shelled TiO2 Hollow Spheres Assembled with TiO2 Nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhou Yuming , Zhang Yiwei , Zhao Shuo , Fang Jiasheng , Sheng Xiaoli , Zhang Tao , Zhang Hongxing
Published: February 2017

High‐quality double‐shelled TiO2 hollow spheres (DHS‐Ti) assembled with TiO2 nanosheets have been synthesized for the first time through a simple hydrothermal treatment of sSiO2@TiO2 (TiO2‐coated solid SiO2 spheres). The double‐shelled structure shows a high BET surface area up to 417.6 m2 g−1. Anatase DHS‐Ti of high crystallinity can be obtained without structural collapse by calcination treatment. The effects of cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) concentration, pH, and hydrothermal reaction temperature have also been investigated with a series of contrast experiments. A formation mechanism involving the in situ growth of amorphous TiO2 nanosheets followed by the redeposition of dissolved silica species is proposed. Lastly, the DHS‐Ti forming strategy can be extended as a general strategy to fabricate various morphological hollow nanostructures and double‐shelled Pt nanocatalysts by rationally selecting functional sSiO2 nanoparticles as core materials. This work could open up a new strategy for controllable synthesis of complex hollow structures and other functional materials.
HSO2+ Formation from Ion‐Molecule Reactions of SO2⋅+ with Water and Methane: Two Fast Reactions with Reverse Temperature‐Dependent Kinetic Trend
Authors: Cartoni Antonella , Catone Daniele , Bolognesi Paola , Satta Mauro , Markus Pal , Avaldi Lorenzo
Published: February 2017

In this work an experimental and theoretical study on the formation of HSO2+ ion from the SO2⋅++CH4 and SO2⋅++H2O ion–molecule reactions at different temperatures is reported. Tunable synchrotron radiation was used to produce the SO2⋅+ ion in excited ro‐vibrational levels of the ionic ground state X2A1 and mass spectrometry was employed to identify the product ions. Calculations in the frame of the density functional theory and variational transition state theory were combined to explore the dynamics of the reactions. The experimental results show that HSO2+ is the only product in both reactions. Its yield decreases monotonically with photon energy in the SO2⋅++H2O reaction, while it decreases at first and then increases in the SO2⋅++CH4 reaction. Theory confirms this trend by calculating the rate constants at different temperatures and explains the results by means of the polar, spin and charge effects as well as structural reorganization occurring in the reaction coordinate. The dynamic behavior observed in these two reactions is of general and fundamental interest. It can also provide some insights on the role of these reactions in astrochemistry as well as in their use as models for bond‐activation reactions.
A central mesencephalic reticular formation projection to medial rectus motoneurons supplying singly and multiply innervated extraocular muscle fibers
Authors: Bohlen Martin O. , Warren Susan , May Paul J.
Published: February 2017

We recently demonstrated a bilateral projection to the supraoculomotor area from the central mesencephalic reticular formation (cMRF), a region implicated in horizontal gaze changes. C‐group motoneurons, which supply multiply innervated fibers in the medial rectus muscle, are located within the primate supraoculomotor area, but their inputs and function are poorly understood. Here, we tested whether C‐group motoneurons in Macaca fascicularis monkeys receive a direct cMRF input by injecting this portion of the reticular formation with anterograde tracers in combination with injection of retrograde tracer into the medial rectus muscle. The results indicate that the cMRF provides a dense, bilateral projection to the region of the medial rectus C‐group motoneurons. Numerous close associations between labeled terminals and each multiply innervated fiber motoneuron were present. Within the oculomotor nucleus, a much sparser ipsilateral projection onto some of the A‐ and B‐ group medial rectus motoneurons that supply singly innervated fibers was observed. Ultrastructural analysis demonstrated a direct synaptic linkage between anterogradely labeled reticular terminals and retrogradely labeled medial rectus motoneurons in all three groups. These findings reinforce the notion that the cMRF is a critical hub for oculomotility by proving that it contains premotor neurons supplying horizontal extraocular muscle motoneurons. The differences between the cMRF input patterns for C‐group versus A‐ and B‐group motoneurons suggest the C‐group motoneurons serve a different oculomotor role than the others. The similar patterns of cMRF input to C‐group motoneurons and preganglionic Edinger‐Westphal motoneurons suggest that medial rectus C‐group motoneurons may play a role in accommodation‐related vergence.
On the benefits of the remote GPU virtualization mechanism: The rCUDA case
Authors: Silla Federico , Iserte Sergio , Reaño Carlos , Prades Javier
Published: February 2017

Graphics processing units (GPUs) are being adopted in many computing facilities given their extraordinary computing power, which makes it possible to accelerate many general purpose applications from different domains. However, GPUs also present several side effects, such as increased acquisition costs as well as larger space requirements. They also require more powerful energy supplies. Furthermore, GPUs still consume some amount of energy while idle, and their utilization is usually low for most workloads. In a similar way to virtual machines, the use of virtual GPUs may address the aforementioned concerns. In this regard, the remote GPU virtualization mechanism allows an application being executed in a node of the cluster to transparently use the GPUs installed at other nodes. Moreover, this technique allows to share the GPUs present in the computing facility among the applications being executed in the cluster. In this way, several applications being executed in different (or the same) cluster nodes can share 1 or more GPUs located in other nodes of the cluster. Sharing GPUs should increase overall GPU utilization, thus reducing the negative impact of the side effects mentioned before. Reducing the total amount of GPUs installed in the cluster may also be possible. In this paper, we explore some of the benefits that remote GPU virtualization brings to clusters. For instance, this mechanism allows an application to use all the GPUs present in the computing facility. Another benefit of this technique is that cluster throughput, measured as jobs completed per time unit, is noticeably increased when this technique is used. In this regard, cluster throughput can be doubled for some workloads. Furthermore, in addition to increase overall GPU utilization, total energy consumption can be reduced up to 40%. This may be key in the context of exascale computing facilities, which present an important energy constraint. Other benefits are related to the cloud computing domain, where a GPU can be easily shared among several virtual machines. Finally, GPU migration (and therefore server consolidation) is one more benefit of this novel technique.
Energy‐efficient fuzzy control model for GPU‐accelerated packet classification
Authors: Li Guo , Zhang Dafang , Li Yanbiao , Zheng Jintao , Li Keqin
Published: February 2017

As a core component of many network infrastructures, packet classification requires matching packet headers against a series of predefined rules. Its performance determines, to some extent, how fast packets can be processed. There already exists many proposals, which optimize the throughput of packet classification, but few of them take power consumption into account. To meet the requirements of green network computing, this paper focuses on energy‐efficient solutions that provide reasonable throughput as well. Similar to recent advancements, the graphics processing unit (GPU) is adopted to accelerate rule matching. Then, inspired by the frequency‐variable energy‐consuming model for air conditioners, a fuzzy control–based energy efficiency optimizing model is proposed for GPU‐accelerated packet classification. As demonstrated in the evaluation experiments, when the GPU is in the idle status, the proposed model can save 10 W. In running status, the fuzzy control–based energy efficiency optimizing model can avoid GPU shutdown issue caused by GPU self‐protection mechanism when the GPU temperature rises to 95°C. Furthermore, by improving the resource configuration of GPU kernels according to the model, the overall energy efficiency is enhanced by up to 15.5%, while simultaneously keeping throughput at the same level.
Photocatalysis of a [2+2] Cycloaddition in Aqueous Solution Using DNA Three‐Way Junctions as Chiral PhotoDNAzymes
Authors: Gaß Nadine , Gebhard Julian , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim
Published: February 2017

The front cover artwork is provided by the Wagenknecht group at KIT. The image shows a three‐dimensional model of the DNA three‐way junction with an internal benzophenone nucleotide in the photoreactive center that induces asymmetry during substrate conversion. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cptc.201600034.
Antinociceptive and Antihyperalgesic Activity of a Traditional Maya Herbal Preparation Composed of Pouteria Campechiana, Chrysophyllum Cainito, Citrus Limonum, and Annona Muricata
Authors: Déciga‐Campos Myrna , Ortiz‐Andrade Rolffy , Sanchez‐Recillas Amanda , Flores‐Guido José Salvador , Ramírez Camacho Mario A.
Published: February 2017

Preclinical Research

The purpose of this work was to assess the antinociceptive and antihyperalgesic properties of an herbal preparation, composed of four vegetal species: Pouteria campechiana (P. campechiana), Chrysophyllum cainito (C. cainito), Citrus limonum (C. limonum), and Annona muricata (A. muricata), that is commonly used in combination (PCCA) in traditional Mayan medicine for the treatment of diabetes and pain. An ethanolic extract of PCCA was prepared at a ratio of 1:1:1:1 for each plant. The systemic antinociceptive effect of PCCA extract (50–600 mg/kg, p.o.) was dose‐dependent in the rat formalin (1%) producing 66% antinociceptive response at 400 mg/kg, p.o. A concentration‐dependent antinociceptive effect of the PCCA extract (20–160 mg/paw) was also demonstrated in the rat capsaicin (0.2%) test. The PCCA extract (100–400 mg/kg, p.o.) had antihyperalgesic effects in alloxan diabetic rats. These findings demonstrate the antinociceptive and antihyperalgesic effects of PCCA and supports the use of the plant extracts in Mayan folk medicine. Drug Dev Res 78 : 91‐97, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Novel Photo‐Induced Electrochemical Biosensing Method Based on Fluorescent Labeled Molecular Beacon
Authors: Zhang Panpan , Arken Gulijamal , Li Guixin , Guan Ming , Tian Shuge
Published: February 2017

A novel photo‐induced electrochemical biosensing method has been developed based on fluorescence quenching effect and electrochemical method. In this sensing strategy, the molecular beacon probes labeled with methylene blue were immobilized on the gold nanoparticles modified gold electrode surface firstly; then dopamine was assembled on the electrode surface through electrostatic interaction with gold nanoparticles. Under the continuous illumination, the fluorescence of the methylene blue was quenched by the gold nanoparticles before hybridization; after hybridization with the complementary DNA, methylene blue was far away from the gold nanoparticles and the fluorescence recovered, and then singlet oxygen was generated in the photosensitive reaction of methylene blue in the presence of dissolved oxygen. Singlet oxygen reacted with dopamine, which resulted in the reduction of concentration of the dopamine on the electrode surface. The current of the dopamine on the electrode was used for the sensing of the conformational change of molecular beacon and hence for the detection of target DNA.
Enantioseparation of isoxazolines with functionalized perphenylcarbamate cyclodextrin clicked chiral stationary phases in HPLC
Authors: Yang Bo , Zhou Jie , Wang Yong , Tang Jian , Tang Weihua
Published: February 2017

The enantioseparations of 12 isoxazoline racemates were explored with four perphenylcarbamate cyclodextrin (CD) clicked chiral stationary phases (CSPs) in high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results demonstrated that the functionalities on phenylcarbamate moiety greatly determined the chiral separation ability of CD clicked CSPs. Among of them, per(3‐chloro‐4‐methylphenylcarbamate) CD clicked CSP (CCC3M4‐CSP) exhibited the best enantioseparation ability, affording 4ClPh‐OPr with a chiral resolution over 20 in ternary eluent mobile phases. The optimization of CSPs structures provided wide platform for their chiral separations towards multi‐mode HPLC.
Uncertainties in modelling heat transfer in fire resistance tests: A case study of stone wool sandwich panels
Authors: Livkiss K. , Andres B. , Johansson N. , van Hees P.
Published: February 2017

Modelling fire performance of building fire barriers would allow optimising the design solutions before performing costly fire resistance tests and promote performance‐based fire safety engineering. Numerical heat conduction analysis is widely used for predicting the insulation capability of fire barriers. Heat conduction analysis uses material properties and boundary condition parameters as the input. The uncertainties in these input parameters result in a wide range of possible model outcomes. In this study, the output sensitivity of a heat conduction model to the uncertainties in the input parameters was investigated. The methodology was applied to stone wool core sandwich panels subjected to the ISO 834 standard fire resistance temperature/time curve. Realistic input parameter value distributions were applied based on material property measurements at site and data available in literature. A Monte Carlo approach and a functional analysis were used to analyse the results. Overall, the model is more sensitive to the boundary conditions than to the material thermal properties. Nevertheless, thermal conductivity can be identified as the most important individual input parameter.
TMEM16A/ANO1 suppression improves response to antibody‐mediated targeted therapy of EGFR and HER2/ERBB2
Authors: Kulkarni Sucheta , Bill Anke , Godse Neal R. , Khan Nayel I. , Kass Jason I. , Steehler Kevin , Kemp Carolyn , Davis Kara , Bertrand Carol A. , Vyas Avani R. , Holt Douglas E. , Grandis Jennifer R. , Gaither L Alex , Duvvuri Umamaheswar
Published: February 2017

TMEM16A, a Ca2+‐activated Cl− channel, contributes to tumor growth in breast cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Here, we investigated whether TMEM16A influences the response to EGFR/HER family‐targeting biological therapies. Inhibition of TMEM16A Cl− channel activity in breast cancer cells with HER2 amplification induced a loss of viability. Cells resistant to trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting HER2, showed an increase in TMEM16A expression and heightened sensitivity to Cl− channel inhibition. Treatment of HNSCC cells with cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting EGFR, and simultaneous TMEM16A suppression led to a pronounced loss of viability. Biochemical analyses of cells subjected to TMEM16A inhibitors or expressing chloride‐deficient forms of TMEM16A provide further evidence that TMEM16A channel function may play a role in regulating EGFR/HER2 signaling. These data demonstrate that TMEM16A regulates EGFR and HER2 in growth and survival pathways. Furthermore, in the absence of TMEM16A cotargeting, tumor cells may acquire resistance to EGFR/HER inhibitors. Finally, targeting TMEM16A improves response to biological therapies targeting EGFR/HER family members.
BroeggeriaWalcott and other upper Cambrian and Tremadocian linguloid brachiopods from NW Argentina
Authors: Benedetto Juan L. , Lavie Fernando J. , Muñoz Diego F.
Published: February 2017

TheBroeggeriaassemblage is a peculiar brachiopod association that has been recorded mainly from Tremadocian black shales of Baltoscandia, the Anglo‐Welsh Basin, Nova Scotia, South Urals and Kazakhstan. Here, we report a low diversity brachiopod association dominated byBroggeria omaguacan. sp. from upper Tremadocian open‐shelf mudstones of northwestern Argentina. The dark‐grey transgressive muddy interval bearing theBroeggeriaassemblage starts with an erosive flooding surface marked by a glauconite‐rich bed containing reworked bioclasts, which overlies storm‐dominated shoreface sandstones. Lithologic and taphonomic evidence indicates that the fauna from the mudstones represents a palaeocommunity inhabiting oxygen‐depleted bottoms. BesidesBroeggeria omaguaca, which by far is the more abundant linguloid, the assemblage includes the obolidsPalaeoglossa elongata(Harrington) andLibecoviellaaff.tilcarensisBenedetto and Muñoz, and the punctate orthideLipanorthis andinusBenedetto. Associated trilobites are abundant and low diversity, the more common being the large asaphidAsaphellus jujuanusHarrington. Coeval strata exposed in the Santa Victoria area contain rare specimens ofBroeggeria omaguacaassociated withLeptembolon argentinumBenedetto and Muñoz andPalaeoglossa elongata. Comparable dysoxic black shales of Furongian age bearing the olenid trilobiteParabolina(Neoparabolina)frequenshave yielded a monospecific association ofLingulellan. sp. The records ofBroeggeriaat global scale support its late Cambrian origin in the Anglo‐Welsh Basin (Avalonia) and its rapid migration into the Karatau–Naryn terrane (a part of the Kazakhstanian collage). By the early Tremadocian,Broeggeriaspread to Belgium and to the neighbouring Megumia terrane, migrating later (mid‐late Tremadocian) to Baltica, Southern Urals, Kazakhstanian terranes, Perunica and the Central Andean Basin. By the late Floian/early Dapingian,Broeggeriacolonized palaeoequatorial deep shelves (Spitsbergen). Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trace and rare earth element geochemistry of crude oils and their coexisting water from the Jiyuan Area of the Ordos Basin, N China
Authors: Zhao Yan , Liu Chi‐Yang , Niu Hai‐Qing , Zhao Xiao‐Chen , Zhang Dong‐Dong , Yang Di , Deng Hui
Published: February 2017

The concentration of trace and rare earth elements in 22 crude oil and five oilfield water samples, collected from Triassic Yanchang Formation and Jurassic Yanan Formation reservoirs in the Jiyuan Area of Ordos Basin, N China, was determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) for the first time. The oil samples were analysed to classify the oils into family and to determine the origin and depositional environment of organic matter that yield the oils using trace elements. The REE chondrite‐normalized distribution patterns of the crude oils show light rare earth element (LREE) enrichment and right‐oblique curves. These patterns could be divided into two distinct types that were consistent with that of the upper continental crust (UCC) and lower continental crust (LCC) characterizing by negative Eu anomalies and positive Eu anomalies, respectively. The REE concentrations in coexisting water samples are less than those in crude oils by a factor of ten. Cluster analysis also classified the oil samples from the Ordos Basin into two main groups. Integrated analysis of Co/Ni, V/Ni and V/ (V + Ni) values suggests that the organic matter have more terrigenous source input and the palaeoenvironment was anoxic and slightly oxic conditions. This study differs from previous studies by using trace element analyses of crude oils to constrain oil‐source rock correlation. The results show that most of the crude oils in north Jiyuan area were derived from Chang 7 mudstones while those from Hongde area may be contributed by Chang 7 oil shales. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of the effect of sperm collection by condom or masturbation on the outcome of in vitro fertilization
Authors: Gal Michael , Fertouk Michal , Volodarsky‐Perel Alexander , Reichman Orna , Holzer Hananel E.G. , Eldar‐Geva Talia
Published: February 2017

Improved total motile sperm count on oocyte pick‐up day was observed with condom‐collected semen compared with masturbation‐collected semen; pregnancy and fertilization rates did not differ.
Meta‐analysis comparing the safety of laparoscopic and open surgical approaches for suspected adnexal mass during the second trimester
Authors: Liu Yi‐Xuan , Zhang Yang , Huang Jin‐Feng , Wang Li
Published: February 2017

Background

The safety of laparoscopic surgery during the second trimester of pregnancy remains a controversial subject.

Objectives

To compare the safety of laparoscopic surgery and laparotomy for suspected adnexal mass during the second trimester.

Search strategy

Articles published in any language prior to April 31, 2016, were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, EMBSCO, and the Cochrane Library using keywords including pregnant, adnexal mass, laparoscopy, laparotomy, pregnancy outcomes, and surgical outcomes.

Selection criteria

Randomized and non‐randomized controlled trials reporting at least one obstetric or surgical outcome were included if they compared laparoscopic surgery and laparotomy for adnexal masses during the second trimester.

Data collection and analysis

Data were independently extracted by two reviewers. Homogeneous data were pooled using a fixed effects model and heterogeneous data were qualitatively analyzed.

Main results

Four comparative effectiveness studies including a total of 240 patients were identified. Laparoscopic surgery was associated with a reduced risk of post‐operative adverse events (relative risk 0.20, 95% confidence interval 0.06–0.72); no difference was recorded in the risk of post‐operative spontaneous abortion (P=0.26) or threatened spontaneous abortion (P=0.13).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic surgery could be preferable to laparotomy for suspected adnexal mass during the second trimester of pregnancy.
Factors associated with maternal mortality among patients meeting criteria of severe maternal morbidity and near miss
Authors: Lima Hesly M.P. , Carvalho Francisco Herlânio C. , Feitosa Francisco Edson L. , Nunes George C.
Published: February 2017

Objective

To evaluate factors associated with maternal death among women experiencing life‐threatening conditions during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy.

Methods

A secondary analysis of data prospectively collected in a Brazilian multicenter cross‐sectional study between July 2009 and June 2010 was conducted. Women were identified who delivered at a hospital in Ceará and who had potentially life‐threatening conditions. Stepwise logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with maternal death.

Results

Overall, 941 women were identified and 11 died. Among criteria for severe maternal morbidity, eclampsia (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 203.70, 95% CI 5.03 to 8254.20; P=0.005) and intensive care unit (ICU) admission (aOR 69.30, 95% CI 6.63–724.26; P<0.001) were risk factors for progression to death, whereas use of magnesium sulfate (aOR 0.002, 95% CI <0.01–0.11; P=0.002) was a protective factor. Meeting near‐miss criteria other than survival (aOR 5.96, 95% CI 1.69–20.98; P=0.005) was associated with maternal death. Of criteria for near miss, management criteria were most strongly associated with maternal death: all 11 women who died met some management criteria.

Conclusion

Among WHO's criteria for severe maternal morbidity and near miss, eclampsia, low oxygen saturation, ICU admission, intubation, mechanical ventilation, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation were most associated with maternal death. Use of magnesium sulfate was a protective factor.
Reports of adolescent emotion regulation and school engagement mediating the relation between parenting and adolescent functioning in India
Authors: Raval Vaishali V. , Ward Rose M. , Raval Pratiksha H. , Trivedi Shwetang S.
Published: February 2017

Much like other parts of Asia, late adolescence in India is a particularly stressful time with academic pressures of a highly competitive examination system that determines future occupational success. The present study examined interrelations among reports of parenting, adolescents' regulation of academics‐related emotions, school engagement, adolescent socio‐emotional functioning and state‐exam performance. Four hundred and fifty 10th and 12th graders from suburban high schools in India participated, along with their mothers. At the beginning of the school year, mothers completed measures of parenting, and adolescents completed measures of emotion regulation, school engagement and behaviour problems. At the end of the school year, grades from state exams were obtained from the schools. A multiple mediator model was tested using structural equation modelling. Authoritarian parenting was positively related to adolescent behaviour problems, but not adolescent state‐exam performance. Maternal non‐supportive responses to adolescent negative emotion were indirectly positively related to adolescent behaviour problems through adolescent emotion dysregulation. Adolescent school engagement mediated the positive relation between maternal supportive responses to adolescent negative emotion and adolescent state‐exam performance. These findings underscore the relevance of adolescent emotions for their academic functioning, with implications for the development of interventions for those who struggle during these highly stressful years.
Lake Basaka Expansion: Challenges for the Sustainability of the Matahara Irrigation Scheme, Awash River Basin (Ethiopia)
Authors: Dinka Megersa Olumana
Published: February 2017

The Matahara Sugar Estate (MSE), after nearly 60 years of irrigation, is experiencing the effects of waterlogging and salinization in some fields. The problem is believed to be the result of the expansion of (saline and alkaline) Lake Basaka towards the plantation fields. The objective of this study was to determine the geometry of the lake (area and shape) in roughly the past half‐ century (1957–2015) from both Landsat images and local information and then assess its negative effects on MSE's soil and water quality. Monthly groundwater (GW) depth was monitored using piezometer tubes. Water and soil samples were collected from each of the piezometer locations and analysed for important physico‐chemical parameters. The results indicate that the lake expanded approximately 47.3 km2 in the past half‐century. The soil quality was found to be very poor in plantation sections with very shallow GW depth and severe salinity conditions. The lake, as revealed by the results, is intruding into the groundwater system of MSE on the Abadir side. Assuming continuation of the past trends, the lake is expected to inundate parts of MSE in the next few years and, hence, challenge the production and productivity of MSE significantly. The lake has the potential to join the Awash River, thereby impacting all downstream irrigation developments in the basin and the livelihood of the people depending on the water resources. As the area is situated in the uppermost part of Main Ethiopian Rift Valley, other factors are expected to exacerbate its expansion even in the future. Overall, the study results present the potential damage caused by the lake to MSE and provides valuable information for the reclamation measures to be taken for the sustainability of MSE. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Student award for outstanding research winner in the Ph.D. category for the 2017 society for biomaterials annual meeting and exposition, april 5–8, 2017, Minneapolis, Minnesota: Characterization of protein interactions with molecularly imprinted hydrogels that possess engineered affinity for high isoelectric point biomarkers
Authors: Clegg John R. , Zhong Justin X. , Irani Afshan S. , Gu Joann , Spencer David S. , Peppas Nicholas A.
Published: February 2017

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) with selective affinity for protein biomarkers could find extensive utility as environmentally robust, cost‐efficient biomaterials for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. In order to develop recognitive, synthetic biomaterials for prohibitively expensive protein biomarkers, we have developed a molecular imprinting technique that utilizes structurally similar, analogue proteins. Hydrogel microparticles synthesized by molecular imprinting with trypsin, lysozyme, and cytochrome c possessed an increased affinity for alternate high isoelectric point biomarkers both in isolation and plasma‐mimicking adsorption conditions. Imprinted and non‐imprinted P(MAA‐co‐AAm‐co‐DEAEMA) microgels containing PMAO‐PEGMA functionalized polycaprolactone nanoparticles were net‐anionic, polydisperse, and irregularly shaped. MIPs and control non‐imprinted polymers (NIPs) exhibited regions of Freundlich and BET isotherm adsorption behavior in a range of non‐competitive protein solutions, where MIPs exhibited enhanced adsorption capacity in the Freundlich isotherm regions. In a competitive condition, imprinting with analogue templates (trypsin, lysozyme) increased the adsorption capacity of microgels for cytochrome c by 162% and 219%, respectively, as compared to a 122% increase provided by traditional bulk imprinting with cytochrome c. Our results suggest that molecular imprinting with analogue protein templates is a viable synthetic strategy for enhancing hydrogel‐biomarker affinity and promoting specific protein adsorption behavior in biological fluids. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1565–1574, 2017.
Long‐Term Randomized Trial of Intensive Versus Symptomatic Management in Paget's Disease of Bone: The PRISM‐EZ Study
Authors: Tan Adrian , Goodman Kirsteen , Walker Allan , Hudson Jemma , MacLennan Graeme S , Selby Peter L , Fraser William D , Ralston Stuart H ,   for the PRISM‐EZ Trial Group
Published: February 2017

It has been suggested that normalization of bone turnover may improve clinical outcome in Paget's disease of bone (PDB) by preventing complications such as fractures and the development of osteoarthritis. Here we investigated the long‐term effects of a treatment strategy that aimed to normalize bone turnover in PDB with that of symptomatic treatment. The study group comprised 502 subjects who were enrolled into a 3‐year extension of the Paget's Disease: Randomized Trial of Intensive versus Symptomatic Management (PRISM) study. Intensive bisphosphonate therapy was continued in 270 of these subjects with the aim of normalizing bone turnover using zoledronic acid as the treatment of first choice. Symptomatic treatment continued in 232 subjects in whom bisphosphonates were only given for the treatment of bone pain. The primary outcome was fracture and secondary outcomes were orthopedic procedures, quality of life, and bone pain, adjusted for baseline characteristics. Serum total alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentrations were significantly lower in the intensive group on entry to the study and the differences between groups increased as the study progressed. There were no clinically important differences in quality of life measures or bone pain between the treatment groups. Intensive treatment was associated with a nonsignificant increase in fracture risk (hazard ratio = 1.90; 95% CI, 0.91 to 3.98; p = 0.087), orthopedic procedures (1.81; 95% CI, 0.71 to 4.61; p = 0.214), and serious adverse events (relative risk 1.28; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.42). We conclude that long‐term intensive bisphosphonate therapy confers no clinical benefit over symptomatic therapy and is associated with a nonsignificant increase in the risk of fractures, orthopedic events, and serious adverse events. The results of this study suggest that in patients with established PDB, bisphosphonate therapy should focus on control of symptoms rather than suppression of bone turnover. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The Skeleton Is a Storehouse of Mineral That Is Plundered During Lactation and (Fully?) Replenished Afterwards
Authors: Kovacs Christopher S
Published: February 2017

During lactation, mammals resorb mineral from the maternal skeleton to provide calcium to milk. Rodents lose 25% to 35% of skeletal ash weight, ash calcium content, and bone mineral content as measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and have compromised material properties of bone as assessed by crushing vertebrae and 3-point bend tests of femora or tibias. The strength, stiffness, and toughness of vertebrae, femora, and tibias are reduced by as much as 60%. The effects of lactation are not uniform throughout the skeleton, but instead resorption is much more marked in the trabecular-rich spine than in the appendicular skeleton or whole body. Women who breastfeed exclusively lose an average of 210 mg calcium in milk each day, whereas nursing of twins or triplets can double and triple the output of calcium. Clinical data are also consistent with skeletal calcium being released during lactation to provide much of the calcium needed for milk production. Lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD), as assessed by DXA, declines by a mean of 5% to 10% among numerous studies during 3 to 6 months of exclusive lactation, whereas largely cortical sites (hip, forearm, whole body) show half that loss or no significant changes. Micro-CT of rodents and high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) imaging of women confirm that lactation causes microarchitectural deterioration of bone. These skeletal losses occur through two pathways: upregulated osteoclast-mediated bone resorption and osteocytic osteolysis, in which osteocytes remove mineral from their lacunae and pericanalicular spaces. After weaning, the skeleton is fully restored to its prior mineral content and strength in both animal models and humans, despite persistent microarchitectural changes observed in high-resolution imaging. Osteoblasts upregulate to lay down new osteoid, while osteocytes remineralize their surroundings. The factors that stimulate this post-weaning skeletal recovery remain unclear. In most studies, a history of lactation does not increase the risk, but may protect against, low BMD and fragility fractures. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A SOCIAL NETWORK APPROACH TO UNDERSTANDING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS IN A NONTRADITIONAL DESTINATION FOR LATINOS
Authors: Eiler Brian A. , Bologna Daniele A. , Vaughn Lisa M. , Jacquez Farrah
Published: February 2017

Cincinnati, like other new migration areas, has recently experienced tremendous growth in the Latino immigrant population. Because greater health disparities exist for Latinos compared to both majority and other minority groups, it is essential to understand how migratory patterns and healthcare infrastructure are related. In this study, social network analysis (SNA), which quantitatively assesses and evaluates network formation and network relationships, was used to investigate the structure of the Greater Cincinnati Latino health network. Referral and collaboration networks were assessed for 29 individuals serving the Latino community. Results indicated the desired collaboration network was nearly twice as dense as either the physical or the mental health referral networks. The physical network was also denser than the mental health network. Similar results were found when analyzing network centralization. Taken together, results indicate a need for additional strategic partnerships between Latino‐serving providers and the Latino‐serving community. Specific recommendations are briefly discussed.
THE COMMUNITY CULTURE SURVEY: PRELIMINARY FINDINGS FROM A NEW APPROACH TO MEASUREMENT AND UNDERSTANDING HEALTH DISPARITIES
Authors: Pellegrin Karen L. , Nigg Claudio R.
Published: February 2017

The Community Culture Survey (CCS) was designed to advance the measurement of culture and its link to health by asking individuals to describe the attitudes and behaviors of people in the local community where they live.  To assess preliminary validity, 130 respondents completed the CCS, a health survey, and demographic questions.  Five subscales were derived from the CCS, 2 of which were correlated with health survey items.  Residents living in neighborhoods described as higher in Social Responsibility and Friendliness were less likely to report experiencing bodily pain and more likely to report experiencing better quality of life. There were no differences based on demographics.  While race or ethnicity is often used as a proxy for culture, the lack of correlation between this variable and community culture subscales supports the distinction between these constructs.  The CCS has potential to advance understanding of the effect of community environment on health and disparities.
Downregulation of methyltransferase Dnmt2 results in condition‐dependent telomere shortening and senescence or apoptosis in mouse fibroblasts
Authors: Lewinska Anna , Adamczyk‐Grochala Jagoda , Kwasniewicz Ewa , Wnuk Maciej
Published: February 2017

Dnmt2 is a highly conserved methyltransferase of uncertain biological function(s). As Dnmt2 was considered as a driver of fruit fly longevity and a modulator of stress response, we decided to evaluate the role of Dnmt2 during stress‐induced premature senescence in NIH3T3 mouse fibroblasts. Stable knockdown of Dnmt2 resulted in hydrogen peroxide‐mediated sensitivity and apoptosis, whereas in the control conditions, senescence was induced. Cellular senescence was accompanied by elevated levels of p53 and p21, decreased telomere length and telomerase activity, increased production of reactive oxygen species and protein carbonylation, and DNA damage. Dnmt2 silencing also promoted global DNA and RNA hypermethylation, and upregulation of methyltransferases, namely Dnmt1, Dnmt3a, and Dnmt3b. Taken together, we show for the first time that Dnmt2 may promote lifespan in the control conditions and survival during stress conditions in mouse fibroblasts.
The SGK1 inhibitor SI113 induces autophagy, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress in endometrial cancer cells
Authors: Conza Domenico , Mirra Paola , Calì Gaetano , Tortora Teresa , Insabato Luigi , Fiory Francesca , Schenone Silvia , Amato Rosario , Beguinot Francesco , Perrotti Nicola , Ulianich Luca
Published: February 2017

Endometrial cancer is often characterized by PI3K/AKT pathway deregulation. Recently it has been suggested that SGK1, a serine/threonine protein kinase that shares structural and functional similarities with the AKT family, might play a role in cancer, since its expression and/or activity has been found to be deregulated in different human tumors. However, the role of SGK1 in endometrial cancer has been poorly investigated. Here, we show that SGK1 expression is increased in tissue specimens from neoplastic endometrium. The SGK1 inhibitor SI113 induced a significant reduction of endometrial cancer cells viability, measured by the (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. This effect was associated to the increase of autophagy, as revealed by the increase of the markers LC3B‐II and beclin I, detected by both immunofluorescence and western blot analysis. SI113 treatment caused also apoptosis of endometrial cancer cells, evidenced by the cleavage of the apoptotic markers PARP and Caspase‐9. Intriguingly, these effects were associated to the induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress markers GRP78 and CHOP evaluated by both Real‐Time RT‐PCR and Western Blot analysis. Increased expression of SGK1 in endometrial cancer tissues suggest a role for SGK1 in this type of cancer, as reported for other malignancies. Moreover, the efficacy of SI113 in affecting endometrial cancer cells viability, possibly via endoplasmic reticulum stress activation, identifies SGK1 as an attractive molecular target for new tailored therapeutic intervention for the treatment of endometrial cancer.
Light‐sheet based lithography technique for patterning an array of microfluidic channels
Authors: Mohan Kavya , Mondal Partha Pratim
Published: February 2017

We propose a Light‐sheet laser interference lithography technique for fabricating periodic microfluidic channels. This technique uses multiple light‐sheet illumination pattern that is generated using a spatial filter at the back‐aperture of the cylindrical lens. Specially designed spatial filter is used that give rise to a periodic pattern at the focal plane which is essentially a 1D Fourier transform of the spatial filter transfer function. One‐dimensional focusing property of the cylindrical lens result in the generation of line shaped channel geometry. To design microfluidic channels, the illumination pattern is exposed to the glass substrate coated with a photopolymer sensitized to 532 nm and subsequently developed using standard chemical protocols. Experimentally, the 1D periodic channel structure has an approximate width and periodicity of approximately 11.25 microns. Light‐sheets based lithography technique offer a fast and single‐shot process to generate microfluidic channels.
Diffusion radiomics analysis of intratumoral heterogeneity in a murine prostate cancer model following radiotherapy: Pixelwise correlation with histology
Authors: Lin Yu‐Chun , Lin Gigin , Hong Ji‐Hong , Lin Yi‐Ping , Chen Fang‐Hsin , Ng Shu‐Hang , Wang Chun‐Chieh
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To investigate the biological meaning of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in tumors following radiotherapy.

Materials and Methods

Five mice bearing TRAMP‐C1 tumor were half‐irradiated with a dose of 15 Gy. Diffusion‐weighted images, using multiple b‐values from 0 to 3000 s/mm2, were acquired at 7T on day 6. ADC values calculated by a two‐point estimate and monoexponential fitting of signal decay were compared between the irradiated and nonirradiated regions of the tumor. Pixelwise ADC maps were correlated with histological metrics including nuclear counts, nuclear sizes, nuclear spaces, cytoplasmic spaces, and extracellular spaces.

Results

As compared with the nonirradiated region, the irradiated region exhibited significant increases in ADC, extracellular space, and nuclear size, and a significant decrease in nuclear counts (P < 0.001 for all). Optimal ADC to differentiate the irradiated from nonirradiated regions was achieved at a b‐value of 800 s/mm2 by the two‐point method and monoexponential curve fitting. ADC positively correlated with extracellular spaces (r = 0.74) and nuclear sizes (r = 0.72), and negatively correlated with nuclear counts (r = –0.82, P < 0.001 for all).

Conclusion

As a radiomic biomarker, ADC maps correlating with histological metrics pixelwise could be a means of evaluating tumor heterogeneity and responses to radiotherapy.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;46:483–489