bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Visualization and Measurement of the Pericallosal Artery
Authors: Pati Mariangela , Cani Carlotta , Bertucci Emma , Re Claudia , Latella Silvia , D'Amico Roberto , Mazza Vincenzo
Published: January 2017

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of visualization and measurement of the pericallosal artery during early stages of gestation.

Methods

The study group comprised 80 pregnant women between 12 and 21 weeks' gestation who attended our ultrasound unit. Transabdominal or transvaginal sonography was performed to obtain the optimal angle of a midsagittal section. High‐definition flow power Doppler imaging was used to visualize the pericallosal artery. In a sagittal plane, the lengths of the pericallosal artery were measured using a straight line to connect the most anterior and posterior points. All patients were reexamined at a later stage of pregnancy to verify the existence of the corpus callosum and pericallosal artery.

Results

Visualization of the pericallosal artery was evident in 71 fetuses, in all of whom the biparietal diameter was greater than 20 mm. We were able to verify normal anatomy and the existence of the pericallosal artery in these fetuses between 30 and 32 weeks' gestation. A positive linear association was found between the length of the pericallosal artery and the gestational age (R2 = 0.95) and the biparietal diameter at each gestational age (R2 = 0.99).

Conclusions

Our data show that it is feasible to visualize and measure the pericallosal artery from an early stage of gestation, and this measurement could be an indirect indication of normal corpus callosum development.
The Unicornuate Uterus and Its Variants
Authors: Khati Nadia J. , Frazier Aletta A. , Brindle Kathleen A.
Published: January 2017

This article will describe the different variants of the unicornuate uterus, their clinical presentation and imaging findings, as well their associated complications. We will also review the associated renal anomalies. Patients' symptoms and their imaging findings will vary depending on the unicornuate subtype. Radiologic evaluation includes a combination of hysterosalpingography, sonography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Complications include obstetric ones related to the small uterine size and endometriosis and ectopic pregnancies when a cavitary rudimentary uterine horn is present. Radiologists should be familiar with all variants of the unicornuate uterus as well as their clinical presentation and associated imaging findings.
Optimization of Ultrasound Transducer Positioning for Endotracheal Tube Placement Confirmation in Cadaveric Model
Authors: Lonchena Tiffany , So Sokpoleak , Ibinson James , Roolf Peter , Orebaugh Steven L.
Published: January 2017

Objectives

Sonography has been suggested as a possible means of endotracheal tube (ETT) placement confirmation. However, optimum ultrasound transducer placement has not been established. Using a cadaveric model, ETT placement by the sonographic appearance at the thyroid cartilage, cricoid cartilage, and suprasternal notch in the upper airway was assessed to determine which ultrasound transducer placement offered the most optimal images for ETT confirmation in the airway.

Methods

One provider intubated 5 cadavers, with the ultrasound transducer at each of the 3 levels, for a total of 30 intubations per specimen, while 2 providers assigned a visual score of 1 (subtle), 2 (clear), or 3 (pronounced) to each sonogram of the ETT in the airway.

Results

At the level of the thyroid cartilage, tracheal intubation was detected at a rate of 40%, with a median visualization scale of 1 (subtle movement). At the level of the cricoid cartilage, the visualization scale improved to a median of 2 (clear movement), with a 70% intubation detection rate. At the level of the suprasternal notch, 100% of the tracheal intubations were visualized on sonography, with a median score of 3 (pronounced movement).

Conclusions

In comparing sonographic detection of ETT placement at 3 levels of the upper airway in a cadaveric model, our results clearly indicate that visualization was superior at the level of the suprasternal notch, with 100% of intubations detected with the best visualization scores.
Toxic effects of dimethyl sulfoxide on red blood cells, platelets, and vascular endothelial cells in vitro
Authors: Yi Xiaoyang , Liu Minxia , Luo Qun , Zhuo Hailong , Cao Hui , Wang Jiexi , Han Ying
Published: January 2017

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is widely used in biological studies as a cryoprotective agent for cells and tissues, and also for cryopreserved platelets (PLTs). However, few data on the toxic effects of DMSO following intravenous infusion of cryopreserved PLTs are available. The aim of this study was to explore dose‐related effects of DMSO on red blood cells (RBCs), PLTs and vascular endothelial cells in vitro. The results showed that DMSO treatments had significant effects on RBCs, affecting osmotic fragility and increasing hemolysis. Free hemoglobin (FHb) level of RBCs was 0.64 ± 0.19 g L−1 after incubation for 6 h with 0.6% DMSO, and these levels were elevated compared with controls (0.09 ± 0.05 g L−1). Aggregation of PLTs induced by adenosine diphosphate, thrombin (THR), and thrombin receptor activator peptide (TRAP) were inhibited by DMSO treatment because the THR generation capacity was reduced. The intensity of the cytosolic esterase‐induced fluorescence response from carboxy dimethyl fluorescein diacetate (CMFDA) in PLTs was decreased about 29% ± 0.04% after treatment with DMSO. DMSO also inhibited the proliferation of the vascular endothelial cell line EAhy926 cells by blocking the G1 phase. Apoptosis of EAhy926 cells with 0.6% DMSO stimulation was increased threefold compared to controls. On the basis of these findings, it was concluded that DMSO was toxic to the hematologic system. This should be taken into account when assessing the infusion effects of cryopreserved PLTs or other blood products requiring DMSO as a vehicle, such as cryopreserved stem cells, in order to avoid adverse therapeutic effects.
PDGF‐induced fibroblast growth requires monounsaturated fatty acid production by stearoyl‐CoA desaturase
Authors: Coomans de Brachène Alexandra , Dif Nicolas , de Rocca Serra Audrey , Bonnineau Chloé , Velghe Amélie I. , Larondelle Yvan , Tyteca Donatienne , Demoulin Jean‐Baptiste
Published: January 2017

Stearoyl‐coenzyme A desaturase (SCD) catalyzes the Δ9‐cis desaturation of saturated fatty acids (SFA) to generate monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). This enzyme is highly up‐regulated by platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) in human fibroblasts. Accordingly, the analysis of cellular fatty acids by gas chromatography showed that PDGF significantly increased the proportion of MUFA, particularly palmitoleate, in cellular lipids. To further analyze the role of SCD in fibroblasts, we used small hairpin RNA targeting SCD (shSCD), which decreased the MUFA content. SCD down‐regulation blunted the proliferation of fibroblasts in response to PDGF. This was confirmed using a pharmacological inhibitor of SCD. In addition, proliferation was blocked by palmitate and stearate (two SCD substrates) but not by palmitoleate and oleate (two SCD products). In the presence of an equal amount of oleate, palmitate had no effect on cell proliferation. SCD inhibition or down‐regulation did not decrease PDGF receptor activity or signaling. However, by measuring plasma membrane lipid lateral diffusion by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, we showed that the modulation of the MUFA/SFA ratio by PDGF and SCD inhibitor was related to modifications of membrane fluidity. Altogether, our data suggest that SCD is required for the response of normal fibroblasts to growth factors.
Embedding Perovskite Nanocrystals into a Polymer Matrix for Tunable Luminescence Probes in Cell Imaging
Authors: Zhang Haihua , Wang Xu , Liao Qing , Xu Zhenzhen , Li Haiyang , Zheng Lemin , Fu Hongbing
Published: January 2017

Lead halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) with bright luminescence and broad spectral tunability are good candidates as smart probes for bioimaging, but suffer from hydrolysis even when exposed to atmosphere moisture. In this paper, a strategy is demonstrated by embedding CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) NCs into microhemispheres (MHSs) of polystyrene matrix to prepare “water‐resistant” NCs@MHSs hybrids as multicolor multiplexed optical coding agents. First, a facile room‐temperature solution self‐assembly approach to highly luminescent colloidal CsPbX3 NCs is developed by injecting a stock solution of CsX⋅PbX2 in N,N‐dimethylformamide into dichloromethane. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) is chosen as the capping ligand, which is physically adsorbed and wrapped on the surface of perovskite NCs to form a protective layer. The PVP protective layer not only leads to composition‐tunable CsPbX3 NCs with high quantum yields and narrow emission linewidths of 12–34 nm but also acts as an interfacial layer, making perovskite NCs compatible with polystyrene polymers and facilitating the next step to embed CsPbX3 NCs into polymer MHSs. CsPbX3 NCs@MHSs are demonstrated as multicolor luminescence probes in live cells with high stability and nontoxicity. Using ten intensity levels and seven‐color NCs@MHSs that show non‐overlapping spectra, it will be possible to individually tag about ten million cells.
Magneto‐Thermal Metrics Can Mirror the Long‐Term Intracellular Fate of Magneto‐Plasmonic Nanohybrids and Reveal the Remarkable Shielding Effect of Gold
Authors: Mazuel François , Espinosa Ana , Radtke Guillaume , Bugnet Matthieu , Neveu Sophie , Lalatonne Yoann , Botton Gianluigi A. , Abou‐Hassan Ali , Wilhelm Claire
Published: January 2017

Multifunctional nanoparticles such as magneto‐plasmonic nanohybrids are rising theranostic agents. However, little is yet known of their fate within the cellular environment. In order to reach an understanding of their biotransformations, reliable metrics for tracking and quantification of such materials properties during their intracellular journey are needed. In this study, their long‐term (one month) intracellular fate is followed within stem‐cell spheroids used as tissue replicas. A set of magnetic (magnetization) and thermal (magnetic hyperthermia, photothermia) metrics is implemented to provide reliable insightsinto the intracellular status. It shows that biodegradation is modulated by the morphology and thickness of the gold shell. First a massive dissolution of the iron oxide core (nanoflower‐like) is observed, starting with dissociation of the multigrain structure. Second, it is demonstrated that an uninterrupted gold shell can preserve the magnetic core and properties (particularly magnetic hyperthermia). In addition to the magnetic and thermal metrics, intracellular high‐resolution chemical nanocartography evidences the gradual degradation of the magnetic cores. It also shows different transformation scenarios, from the release of small gold seeds when the magnetic core is dissolved (interesting for long‐term elimination) to the protection of the magnetic core (interesting for long‐term therapeutic applicability).
Photochemically Driven Polymeric Network Formation: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Blasco Eva , Wegener Martin , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: January 2017

Polymeric networks have been intensely investigated and a large number of applications have been found in areas ranging from biomedicine to materials science. Network fabrication via light‐induced reactions is a particularly powerful tool, since light provides ready access to temporal and spatial control, opening an array of synthetic access routes for structuring the network geometry as well as functionality. Herein, the most recent light‐induced modular reactions and their use in the formation of precision polymeric networks are collated. The synthetic strategies including photoinduced thiol‐based reactions, Diels–Alder systems, and photogenerated reactive dipoles, as well as photodimerizations, are discussed in detail. Importantly, applications of the fabricated networks via the aforementioned reactions are highlighted with selected examples. Concomitantly, we provide future directions for the field, emphasizing the most critically required advances.
Regulating the micromixing efficiency of a novel helical tube reactor by premixing behavior optimization
Authors: Luo Jiang‐Zhou , Chu Guang‐Wen , Luo Yong , Arowo Moses , Sun Bao‐Chang , Chen Jian‐Feng
Published: January 2017

In this work, a novel helical tube reactor (HTR) was constructed, including a pre‐mixer for adjusting the premixing behavior of reactants and a helical tube as a further mixing unit. The pre‐mixer was modified to optimize the premixing behavior by using two methods, named as tangential‐feeding and insertion of a helical baffle. The premixing behaviors were investigated via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. Simulation results indicated that both methods can change the fluid flow, enhance the turbulence kinetic energy, and improve the premixing performance in the pre‐mixers. Based on the results of CFD simulation, it could be predicted that the micromixing efficiency of the HTR can be regulated by these methods accordingly. Then the predicated results were confirmed experimentally by a parallel competing reaction. Furthermore, the relationship between the premixing performance increasing and the corresponding micromixing efficiency increasing of the HTR was quantitatively analyzed. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 2876–2887, 2017
A Biosurfactant‐Inspired Heptapeptide with Improved Specificity to Kill MRSA
Authors: Liu Yuan , Ding Shuangyang , Dietrich Richard , Märtlbauer Erwin , Zhu Kui
Published: January 2017

The emergence and rapid spread of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a serious threat to public health. New antibiotics and strategies are urgently needed to combat S. aureus associated infections. Bacaucin, a novel cyclic lipopeptide from Bacillus subtilis CAU21, is reported. Bacaucin shows broad antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria, but is also hemolytic and cytotoxic. However, bacaucin‐1, a bacaucin‐inspired ring‐opened heptapeptide, shows specific antibacterial activity against MRSA by a membrane‐disruptive mechanism without detectable toxicity to mammalian cells or induction of bacterial resistance. Bacaucin‐1 was efficient in preventing infections in both in vitro and in vivo models and is a valuable prototype antibiotic with high potential against S. aureus infections.
Identification and characterization of microRNAs expressed in antennae of Holotrichia parallela Motschulsky and their possible roles in olfactory regulation
Authors: Wang Shang , Yi Jian‐Kun , Yang Shuang , Liu Yan , Zhang Ju‐Hong , Xi Jing‐Hui
Published: January 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that play posttranscriptional, regulatory roles in various biological processes. However, there has been limited investigation into the potential function of miRNAs in olfaction. The coleopteran Holotrichia parallela is an economically important pest, and miRNAs have been identified in only one coleopteran (Tribolium castaneum). Therefore, this study was conducted to identify miRNAs expressed in the antennae of H. parallela and obtain insights into their possible roles in olfaction. By combining deep sequencing and miRDeep2 software, a total of 99 miRNAs, including 76 conserved miRNAs and 23 novel miRNAs, were identified from H. parallela antennae. The 76 conserved miRNAs belong to 63 families and the other 23 may be species specific or tissue specific. The identified miRNAs have many conserved features of miRNAs. Evaluation of the conservation of the identified miRNA families across different species revealed that most of the families are insect specific. The prediction and annotation of targets suggested that 13 of the identified miRNAs participate in olfactory regulation. Gender differences in antennal expression of nine of the olfactory‐related miRNAs were confirmed by quantitative real‐time PCR.
Entwicklung der Materialeigenschaften im jungen Massenbeton
Authors: Strieder Emanuel , Hilber Raimund , Murr Roland , Bergmeister Konrad
Published: January 2017

Bei Massenbetonbauteilen ist die Berechnung der Rissbildung und Rissbreiten umstritten. Auch die Ermittlung der Mindest bewehrung für Stahlbetonbauteile aus Massenbeton wird immer wieder kontrovers diskutiert. Sowohl die baupraktische Erfahrung als auch aktuelle Forschungsergebnisse zeigen, dass die normgemäße Ermittlung der Mindestbewehrung nach EC2 bei Massenbeton nicht zielführend ist.

Die Gefahr der Frührissbildung kann mithilfe nichtlinearer FE‐Berechnungen unter Berücksichtigung der zeitlichen Entwicklung der relevanten Materialparameter abgeschätzt werden. Versuchsergebnisse mit geeigneten Betonrezepturen sind eine solide Basis für FE‐Berechnungen zur Rissminimierung. Der vorliegende Artikel zeigt Versuchsergebnisse der zeitlichen Entwicklung von mechanischen Eigenschaften und der Hydratationswärmefreisetzung unterschiedlicher Bindemittel im Beton. Materialentwicklungsfunktionen werden anhand der Prüfergebnisse angepasst. Diese dienen als Grundlage für die Ermittlung der während der Hydratation im Beton auftretenden Spannungen und der daraus folgenden erforderlichen Mindestbewehrung. Dadurch soll ein Beitrag zur Reduktion der Mindestbewehrung geleistet werden.
Ein additives Dehnungsmodell für ermüdungsbeanspruchten Beton
Authors: von der Haar Christoph , Marx Steffen
Published: January 2017

In diesem Beitrag wird das Dehnungsverhalten von ermüdungsbeanspruchtem Beton auf Grundlage eines additiven Dehnungsmodells betrachtet. In dem Modell setzen sich die Dehnungen des Betons aus elastischen, viskosen, thermischen und schädigungsinduzierten Dehnungen zusammen. Die einzelnen Dehnungsanteile entwickeln sich individuell in Abhängigkeit von der Zahl der Lastwechsel, der Versuchsdauer und den zyklischen Beanspruchungsparametern. Kernstück des Beitrags ist die Bestimmung eines kriechaffinen Beanspruchungsniveaus, um den viskosen Verformungsanteil in Abhängigkeit von der Ermüdungsbeanspruchung abzuschätzen.

Die gemessenen Dehnungen ermüdungsbeanspruchter Betonproben werden entsprechend der additiven Modellvorstellung zerlegt und analysiert. Durch dieses Vorgehen bieten sich neue Erkenntnisse zum Dehnungs‐ und Materialverhalten von Beton bei Ermüdungsbeanspruchung.
Schwind‐ und Kriechverhalten von Beton auf Basis eines alkalisch‐aktivierten Hüttensands
Authors: Ma Jianxin , Dehn Frank
Published: January 2017

In diesem Beitrag werden die Erkenntnisse einer experimentellen Studie zum Schwind‐ und Kriechverhalten von Beton auf Basis eines alkalisch‐aktivierten Hüttensands (AAS‐Beton) zusammengefasst und mit den für Portlandzement‐Beton bekannten Schwind‐ bzw. Kriechmodellen verglichen. Für den untersuchten AAS‐Beton wurde eine repräsentative Zusammen setzung ausgewählt, die bzgl. des Hüttensandeinflusses einen großen Anwendungsbereich abdeckt und somit grundsätz liche Aussagen und eine Übertragbarkeit bzgl. des Langzeitverformungsverhaltens auch für andere AAS‐Betone zulässt.
Risse in Fundamenten von Onshore‐Windenergieanlagen
Authors: Akkermann Jan , Weiler Simon
Published: January 2017

Bei der Herstellung von Fundament‐Kreisplatten aus Stahl beton für Onshore‐Windenergieanlagen wird immer wieder eine radiale Rissbildung in der Erhärtungsphase des Betons beobachtet. Ausgehend von einem kontinuumsmechanischen Hydratationsmodell werden mittels numerischer Simulation die Vorgänge bei der Erhärtung untersucht und mit in situ festgestellten Schädigungen verglichen. Hierbei werden die wesentlichen betontechnologischen, thermischen und mechanischen Parameter identifiziert. Es werden Empfehlungen für die Ausführung in der Praxis unterbreitet.
Einflussgrößen auf die Wirksamkeit einer Wärmebehandlung von Ultrahochfestem Beton (UHFB)
Authors: Selleng Christian , Meng Birgit , Gröger Katja , Fontana Patrick
Published: January 2017

Mittels Wärmebehandlung lassen sich die hervorragenden Eigenschaften von UHFB nochmals verbessern. Die für eine optimale Umsetzung relevanten Randbedingungen werden aktuell in der Fachwelt diskutiert. In dieser Veröffentlichung werden die Ergebnisse eines Forschungsprojekts vorgestellt, das die Wirkung verschiedener Einflussgrößen bei der Wärmebehandlung auf die Eigenschaften von UHFB zum Thema hatte. Dabei wurden die Art des Schutzes gegen das Austrocknen, die Vorlagerungszeit und die Haltezeit variiert. Um die zugrunde liegenden Prozesse zu verstehen, wurde der Phasenbestand mittels Röntgendiffraktometrie untersucht.

Die höchsten Druckfestigkeiten des UHFB ließen sich bei einer Wärmebehandlung mit Wasserlagerung erzielen, da hierbei eine weitere Hydratation begünstigt wird. Vergleichsweise niedriger waren die Steigerungen bei einer Behandlung mit Schutz vor Austrocknung, während eine ungeschützte Behandlung zu deutlich geringeren Festigkeiten führte. Die Vorlagerungszeit beträgt im Idealfall einige Tage, um die Ausbildung eines offenbar günstigen Ausgangsgefüges sicherzustellen. Die Haltezeit sollte möglichst ausgedehnt sein, weil die Hydratation entsprechend lange gefördert wird.

Im oberflächennahen Bereich war unter bestimmten Bedingungen eine Zonierung zu beobachten, deren Ursachen und Folgen, insbesondere in Bezug auf die Dauerhaftigkeit, weitere Forschung erfordern.
Up‐regulation of miR‐497 confers resistance to temozolomide in human glioma cells by targeting mTOR/Bcl‐2
Authors: Zhu Danhua , Tu Ming , Zeng Bo , Cai Lin , Zheng Weiming , Su Zhipeng , Yu Zhengquan
Published: January 2017

The occurrence of an inherent or acquired resistance to temozolomide (TMZ) is a major burden for patients suffering from glioma. Recently, studies have demonstrated that microRNAs play an important role in the regulation of tumor properties in cancers. However, whether miR‐497 contributes to glioma resistance to chemotherapy is not fully understood. In this study, we showed that the expression of miR‐497 was markedly up‐regulated in TMZ‐resistant glioma cells; high miR‐497 expression level was associated with TMZ‐resistant phenotype of glioma cells. The down‐regulation of miR‐497 in glioma cells enhanced the apoptosis‐induction and growth inhibition effects of TMZ both in vitro and in vivo, whereas promotion of miR‐497 increased the chemosensitization of glioma cells to TMZ. The increased level of miR‐497 in TMZ‐resistant glioma cells was concurrent with the up‐regulation of insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R)/insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) pathway‐related proteins, that is, IGF1R, IRS1, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and Bcl‐2. In addition, the knockdown of mTOR and Bcl‐2 reduced the tolerance of glioma cells to TMZ. Our results demonstrated that overexpression of miR‐497 is significantly correlated with TMZ resistance in glioma cells by regulating the IGF1R/IRS1 pathway. Therefore, miR‐497 may be used as a new target for treatment of chemotherapy‐resistant glioma.
Ungulate predation and ecological roles of wolves and coyotes in easternNorthAmerica
Authors: Benson John F. , Loveless Karen M. , Rutledge Linda Y. , Patterson Brent R.
Published: January 2017

Understanding the ecological roles of species that influence ecosystem processes is a central goal of ecology and conservation biology. Eastern coyotes (Canis latrans) have ascended to the role of apex predator across much of eastern North America since the extirpation of wolves (Canisspp.) and there has been considerable confusion regarding their ability to prey on ungulates and their ecological niche relative to wolves. Eastern wolves (C. lycaon) are thought to have been the historical top predator in eastern deciduous forests and have previously been characterized as deer specialists that are inefficient predators of moose because of their smaller size relative to gray wolves (C. lupus). We investigated intrinsic and extrinsic influences on per capita kill rates of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and moose (Alces alces) during winter by sympatric packs of eastern coyotes, eastern wolves, and admixed canids in Ontario, Canada to clarify the predatory ability and ecological roles of the different canid top predators of eastern North America. Eastern coyote ancestry within packs negatively influenced per capita total ungulate (deer and moose combined) and moose kill rates. Furthermore, canids in packs dominated by eastern coyote ancestry consumed significantly less ungulate biomass and more anthropogenic food than packs dominated by wolf ancestry. Similar to gray wolves in previous studies, eastern wolves preyed on deer where they were available. However, in areas were deer were scarce, eastern wolves killed moose at rates similar to those previously documented for gray wolves at comparable moose densities across North America. Eastern coyotes are effective deer predators, but their dietary flexibility and low kill rates on moose suggest they have not replaced the ecological role of wolves in eastern North America.
Population impacts in white sucker (Catostomus commersonii) exposed to oil sands–derived contaminants in the Athabasca River
Authors: Arens Collin J. , Arens Jennifer C. , Hogan Natacha S. , Kavanagh Richard J. , Berrue Fabrice , Van Der Kraak Glen J. , van den Heuvel Michael R.
Published: January 2017

Biological and chemical endpoints were measured in white sucker collected downstream of Athabasca oil sands developments (AB, Canada) and compared with those at Calling Lake (AB, Canada), a reference location upstream of the Athabasca oil sands deposit. Naphthenic acid concentrations were also measured at 14 sites in the Athabasca River watershed. Concentrations of naphthenic acids were elevated in tributaries adjacent to oil sands mining developments. Tributary naphthenic acid profiles were more similar to aged oil sands process water than samples from the Athabasca River, suggesting an influence of tailings in the tributaries. White sucker showed higher energy storage in the Athabasca River as indicated by significantly higher condition and liver size. White sucker were not investing that energy into reproductive effort as measured by gonad size and fecundity, which were significantly reduced relative to the reference location. White sucker showed increased exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as indicated by hepatic cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A) activity and fluorescent bile metabolites, as well as higher concentrations of naphthenic acids in bile. Cadmium, copper, nickel, and selenium were also elevated in white sucker liver tissue compared with the reference location. Based on the exposure profile and response pattern observed, effects on energy storage and utilization in white sucker from the Athabasca River most likely resulted from exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons derived from petrogenic and pyrolytic sources. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:2058–2067. © 2017 SETAC
Painless Neonatal Circumcision
Authors: Poma Pedro A.
Published: January 2017

In this country, neonatal circumcisions are usually performed without any consideration of the pain the newborn endures. A simple easy‐to‐learn technique of superficial dorsal penile nerve‐block procedure was employed on 109 infants. This technique does not increase circumcision morbidity and ought to be employed before neonatal circumcision, so that they may benefit from the practice of modern anesthesia.
Cover Image, Volume 92, Issue 2
Authors: Peng Cong , Chai Li‐Yuan , Tang Chong‐Jian , Min Xiao‐Bo , Ali Mohammad , Song Yu‐Xia , Qi Wei‐Ming
Published: January 2017

The cover image, by Chong‐Jian Tang et al., is based on the Research Article Feasibility and enhancement of copper and ammonia removal from wastewater using struvite formation: a comparative research, DOI: 10.1002/jctb.5009.

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Cover Image, Volume 97, Issue 3
Authors: Millan Borja , Aquino Arturo , Diago Maria P , Tardaguila Javier
Published: January 2017

The cover image, by Borja Millán et al., is based on the Research Paper Image analysis‐based modelling for flower number estimation in grapevine, DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.7797.

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3D volume reconstruction from serial breast specimen radiographs for mapping between histology and 3D whole specimen imaging
Authors: Mertzanidou Thomy , Hipwell John H. , Reis Sara , Hawkes David J. , Ehteshami Bejnordi Babak , Dalmis Mehmet , Vreemann Suzan , Platel Bram , van der Laak Jeroen , Karssemeijer Nico , Hermsen Meyke , Bult Peter , Mann Ritse
Published: January 2017

Purpose

In breast imaging, radiological in vivo images, such as x‐ray mammography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are used for tumor detection, diagnosis, and size determination. After excision, the specimen is typically sliced into slabs and a small subset is sampled. Histopathological imaging of the stained samples is used as the gold standard for characterization of the tumor microenvironment. A 3D volume reconstruction of the whole specimen from the 2D slabs could facilitate bridging the gap between histology and in vivo radiological imaging. This task is challenging, however, due to the large deformation that the breast tissue undergoes after surgery and the significant undersampling of the specimen obtained in histology. In this work, we present a method to reconstruct a coherent 3D volume from 2D digital radiographs of the specimen slabs.

Methods

To reconstruct a 3D breast specimen volume, we propose the use of multiple target neighboring slices, when deforming each 2D slab radiograph in the volume, rather than performing pairwise registrations. The algorithm combines neighborhood slice information with free‐form deformations, which enables a flexible, nonlinear deformation to be computed subject to the constraint that a coherent 3D volume is obtained. The neighborhood information provides adequate constraints, without the need for any additional regularization terms.

Results

The volume reconstruction algorithm is validated on clinical mastectomy samples using a quantitative assessment of the volume reconstruction smoothness and a comparison with a whole specimen 3D image acquired for validation before slicing. Additionally, a target registration error of 5 mm (comparable to the specimen slab thickness of 4 mm) was obtained for five cases. The error was computed using manual annotations from four observers as gold standard, with interobserver variability of 3.4 mm. Finally, we illustrate how the reconstructed volumes can be used to map histology images to a 3D specimen image of the whole sample (either MRI or CT).

Conclusions

Qualitative and quantitative assessment has illustrated the benefit of using our proposed methodology to reconstruct a coherent specimen volume from serial slab radiographs. To our knowledge, this is the first method that has been applied to clinical breast cases, with the goal of reconstructing a whole specimen sample. The algorithm can be used as part of the pipeline of mapping histology images to ex vivo and ultimately in vivo radiological images of the breast.
Heiße Physik im Yellowstone‐Park
Authors: Vollmer Michael , Shaw Joseph A. , Nugent Paul W.
Published: January 2017

Die heißen Quellen im Yellowstone‐Nationalpark begeistern mit ihren schimmernden Farben. Dieser Effekt lässt sich erklären als Zusammenspiel aus einfallendem Licht, der Lichtstreuung und ‐absorption im heißen Wasser sowie der Reflexion an thermophilen Bakterien‐ und Algenmatten auf den Felswänden der Quellen. Physikalische Simulationen auf dieser Basis ergeben Bilder, die der Realität sehr nahe kommen. Geläufig ist der Effekt von der Atmosphäre: Ferne Berge erscheinen blau, auch wenn sie mit grüner Vegetation bewachsen sind.
Schwarze Löcher in Galaxienzentren
Authors: Britzen Silke , Müller Andreas
Published: January 2017

Schwarze Löcher gehören zu den faszinierendsten und ohnehin attraktivsten astrophysikalischen Phänomenen. In den Zentren von Galaxien sind sie verantwortlich für die Emission von Strahlung und für Jets. Nach der Entdeckung von Gravitationswellen von zwei verschmelzenden Schwarzen Löchern steht als nächstes großes Ziel die direkte Beobachtung des Schattens des Schwarzen Lochs im Zentrum der Milchstraße.
Balancierende Spitzenkräfte
Authors: Mathelitsch Leopold , Thaller Sigrid
Published: January 2017

Unter allen Tanzformen stellt das Ballett die höchsten Ansprüche an Athletik und Ästhetik. Die Balancetechnik nutzt die Physik ähnlich wie die Sportart des Schwebebalkens. Beim Grande Jeté, dem großen Sprung, erzeugen physikalische Tricks die Illusion des Schwebens. Für eine weitere Illusion des Schwebens sorgt der Spitzentanz. Die sehr kleine Standfläche sorgt für relativ hohe Drücke, was spezielle Pointe‐Schuhe erfordert. Eine lange Ausbildung von Kindheit an verbessert die Sprungtechnik und senkt das Risiko für Knieverletzungen im Vergleich zu anderen Sportarten.
Und es werde Feuer – Teil 1: Streichhölzer
Authors: Vollmer Michael , Möllmann Klaus‐Peter
Published: January 2017

Es ist wissenschaftlich umstritten, wann der Mensch lernte, Feuer selbst zu entzünden. Spätestens vor 32000 Jahren war er wohl dazu in der Lage. Was früher mühsam war, ist heute selbstverständlich. Hochgeschwindigkeits‐Aufnahmen offenbaren die Vorgänge während der Initialzündung sowie den Brand eines Streichholzkopfes. In der nächsten Folge untersuchen wir Feuerzeuge.
Vom Dirac‐String zum Spineis
Authors: Klemke Bastian , Moessner Roderich
Published: January 2017

Elektrizität und Magnetismus erscheinen grundlegend asymmetrisch: Elementare elektrische Ladungen, die Elektronen, sind allgegenwärtig, aber noch nie ist deren magnetisches Gegenstück, der magnetische Monopol, beobachtet worden. Dabei postulierte Paul Dirac deren Existenz bereits 1931. Es gibt allerdings nicht nur Elementarteilchen, sondern auch Quasiteilchen in Festkörpern, die sich analog zu Elementarteilchen verhalten können. Dieser Artikel beschreibt, wie Dysprosiumtitanat als Festkörpersystem magnetische Monopole als Quasiteilchen hervorbringt, und wie diese experimentell nachgewiesen wurden. Er erklärt zudem, warum dieses System als Spineis bezeichnet wird und wie man es mit seinen magnetischen Monopolen analog zu Elektrolyten analysieren kann.
Schlüssel zur diagnostischen Präzision
Authors: Rossner Wolfgang , Metzger Wilhelm
Published: January 2017

Tomographische Schnittbildverfahren gehören zum klinischen Alltag. Röntgen‐Computertomographie und Positronen‐Emissions‐Tomographie liefern detailgenaue Echtzeitdarstellungen der anatomischen Strukturen und des Stoffwechselverhaltens des menschlichen Körpers. Ein Schlüssel hierzu ist der Einsatz spezieller Festkörper‐Szintillatoren in den jeweiligen Detektorsystemen dieser Bildgebungsverfahren. In der Röntgen‐Computertomographie haben neuartige polykristalline Keramikszintillatoren die früheren Einkristallszintillatoren abgelöst. Aus prozesstechnischer und chemischer Sicht bieten sie mehr Freiheitsgrade und sind damit gezielter an Systemanforderungen anpassbar. Sie helfen, bildgebende Verfahren von einer rein anatomischen Strukturdarstellung zu einem Instrument der personalisierten Präzisionsmedizin weiter zu entwickeln.
Noise Immission Analyzer – Eine App misst den Schalldruckpegel
Authors: Hirth Michael , Kuhn Jochen , Wilhelm Thomas
Published: January 2017

Für kaum eine andere Messgröße stehen mehr Smartphone‐Applikationen zur Auswahl als für den Schalldruckpegel. Die angebotenen Apps erfüllen aber in der überwältigenden Mehrheit die in internationalen Normen festgelegten Qualitätsmerkmale (zum Beispiel für Europa [1]) nicht [2]. Aus einer Reihe empfehlenswerter Anwendungen [2, 3] stellen wir die iOS‐App Noise Immission Analyzer vor.
Die irisierende Schönheit einer Schleimspur
Authors: Schlichting H. Joachim
Published: January 2017

Sehr dünne transparente Filme erzeugen bei richtiger Beleuchtung ein irisierendes Farbenspiel. Wie kommt es zu diesen Farben, die auf Pigmente nicht angewiesen sind?
Teilchenbewegung und Berge
Authors: Loos Andreas
Published: January 2017

Zyniker sagen, nichts sei besser für Nachruhm als ein früher Tod, und sie ziehen als Belege Menschen wie Evariste Galois, Henry Moseley oder Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart heran. Mit dem Gesuchten, übrigens einem Landsmann Mozarts, kann man jedoch eher das Gegenteil belegen: Als bekannter und erfolgreicher Wissenschaftler ereilt ihn aufgrund einer Ruhrinfektion mit 45 Jahren der Tod – und er gerät umgehend fast völlig in Vergessenheit.
Weiche Festkörper
Authors: Vilgis Thomas
Published: January 2017

Gele gehören zum Standardrepertoire in der Küche. Der hochkonzentrierte Geschmack in einen weichen Festkörper gepackt, entpuppt sich im Mund als eine an Physik gekoppelte Sensorik, wenn Elastizität, Brucheigenschaften und Geschmacksfreigabe gekoppelt werden. Die Gelierung ist dabei eng an einen mehrstufigen molekularen Prozess geknüpft.
Quasiteilchen in Zeitlupe
Authors: Schmidt Richard , Knap Michael
Published: January 2017

Quasiteilchen sind fundamentale Bausteine komplexer Vielteilchensysteme. Doch welche Prozesse laufen ab, um ein Quasiteilchen zu bilden? In einer aktuellen Studie [1] ist es unserer internationalen Kooperation gelungen, die Entstehung eines Quasiteilchens in Echtzeit zu beobachten. Dazu wurden Methoden der Atomuhren auf ultrakalte Quantengase angewendet.
Quantenteleportation im städtischen Glasfasernetzwerk
Authors: Tittel Wolfgang
Published: January 2017

Die Möglichkeit, unbekannte Quantenzustände von einem Quantenteilchen auf ein anderes zu teleportieren, hat schon immer fasziniert. Diese verblüffende Art der Übertragung ermöglicht zudem die Realisierung zukünftiger Quantenverstärker und Quantennetzwerke. Unserer Gruppe ist kürzlich die Teleportation mit Photonen außerhalb eines Labors, nämlich im Glasfasernetz der Stadt Calgary in Kanada gelungen [1]. Ein ähnliches Experiment realisierte ein Forscherteam in Hefei, China [2].
Akustische Hologramme steuern Partikel
Authors: Melde Kai , Qiu Tian , Mark Andrew , Fischer Peer
Published: January 2017

Hologramme sind vor allem im optischen Bereich zur Darstellung räumlicher Bilder bekannt. Das Prinzip lässt sich aber auf andere Wellenvorgänge übertragen. Das von unserer Gruppe am Max‐Planck‐Institut für Intelligente Systeme in Stuttgart entwickelte akustische Hologramm ist ein neues Bauelement, das Schallwellen in bisher unerreichter Komplexität und Auflösung formen kann [1]. Es funktioniert sowohl in Transmission als auch Reflexion und eignet sich besonders gut für Ultraschall.
On the analysis of very small samples of Gaussian repeated measurements: an alternative approach
Authors: Westgate Philip M. , Burchett Woodrow W.
Published: January 2017

The analysis of very small samples of Gaussian repeated measurements can be challenging. First, due to a very small number of independent subjects contributing outcomes over time, statistical power can be quite small. Second, nuisance covariance parameters must be appropriately accounted for in the analysis in order to maintain the nominal test size. However, available statistical strategies that ensure valid statistical inference may lack power, whereas more powerful methods may have the potential for inflated test sizes. Therefore, we explore an alternative approach to the analysis of very small samples of Gaussian repeated measurements, with the goal of maintaining valid inference while also improving statistical power relative to other valid methods. This approach uses generalized estimating equations with a bias‐corrected empirical covariance matrix that accounts for all small‐sample aspects of nuisance correlation parameter estimation in order to maintain valid inference. Furthermore, the approach utilizes correlation selection strategies with the goal of choosing the working structure that will result in the greatest power. In our study, we show that when accurate modeling of the nuisance correlation structure impacts the efficiency of regression parameter estimation, this method can improve power relative to existing methods that yield valid inference. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Instrumental variable with competing risk model
Authors: Zheng Cheng , Dai Ran , Hari Parameswaran N. , Zhang Mei‐Jie
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we discuss causal inference on the efficacy of a treatment or medication on a time‐to‐event outcome with competing risks. Although the treatment group can be randomized, there can be confoundings between the compliance and the outcome. Unmeasured confoundings may exist even after adjustment for measured covariates. Instrumental variable methods are commonly used to yield consistent estimations of causal parameters in the presence of unmeasured confoundings. On the basis of a semiparametric additive hazard model for the subdistribution hazard, we propose an instrumental variable estimator to yield consistent estimation of efficacy in the presence of unmeasured confoundings for competing risk settings. We derived the asymptotic properties for the proposed estimator. The estimator is shown to be well performed under finite sample size according to simulation results. We applied our method to a real transplant data example and showed that the unmeasured confoundings lead to significant bias in the estimation of the effect (about 50% attenuated). Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Covariate selection for multilevel models with missing data
Authors: Marino Miguel , Buxton Orfeu M. , Li Yi
Published: January 2017

Missing covariate data hamper variable selection in multilevel regression settings. Current variable selection techniques for multiply‐imputed data commonly address missingness in the predictors through list‐wise deletion and stepwise‐selection methods that are problematic. Moreover, most variable selection methods are developed for independent linear regression models and do not accommodate multilevel mixed effects regression models with incomplete covariate data. We develop a novel methodology that is able to perform covariate selection across multiply‐imputed data for multilevel random effects models when missing data are present. Specifically, we propose to stack the multiply‐imputed data sets from a multiple imputation procedure and to apply a group variable selection procedure through group lasso regularization to assess the overall impact of each predictor on the outcome across the imputed data sets. Simulations confirm the advantageous performance of the proposed method compared with the competing methods. We applied the method to reanalyse the Healthy Directions–Small Business cancer prevention study, which evaluated a behavioural intervention programme targeting multiple risk‐related behaviours in a working‐class, multi‐ethnic population. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epidemiological and clinical aspects of neonatal tetanus from a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Aqeel Ali Y. , Arishi Haider M. , Ageel Hussain I. , Arishi Nouriyah H.
Published: January 2017

Background and objectives:

To study the epidemiology, clinical presentation and outcome of all patients diagnosed with neonatal tetanus and to provide a recommendation for maternal and neonatal tetanus elimination.

Design and setting:

Retrospective study of all cases of neonatal tetanus admitted from 1991 to 2013. Neonatal intensive care unit, King Fahad Central Hospital, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

Results:

Thirty patients were diagnosed with neonatal tetanus over 22 years. Eighteen (60%) of the patients were born to Saudi mothers, and 12 (40%) were born to non-Saudi mothers. Twenty-seven (90%) deliveries occurred at home. Most of the mothers lived in the mountainous zone of the region. Two (10%) of the mothers had only a single dose of the tetanus toxoid; the status of the remaining pregnant women was unknown or unimmunized before or during conception. In 18 of the 30 patients (60%), the umbilical cord was severed using household knife, razor blade or plain scissors. Most of the patients presented with muscle spasms (96.7%), refusal to eat and abnormal posture. All of the patients were intubated and receiving mechanical ventilation. Six (20%) of the patients died.

Conclusion:

It is essential to begin campaigns or integrate complete maternal tetanus toxoid immunization at primary health centers (PHC) during antenatal care. Immunization needs to be arranged so pregnant women can be educated regarding the importance of ANC and the risks of unhygienic home delivery, and immunization should be addressed with adequate information. Pregnant women and those of childbearing age in mountainous areas should be the first targets for these activities.
Plasma concentrations of free amyloid β cannot predict the development of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lövheim Hugo , Elgh Fredrik , Johansson Anders , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Hallmans Göran , Eriksson Sture
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Biomarkers that identify individuals at risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) development would be highly valuable. Plasma concentration of amyloid β (Aβ)—central in the pathogenesis of AD—is a logical candidate, but studies to date have produced conflicting results on its utility.

Methods

Plasma samples from 339 preclinical AD cases (76.4% women, mean age 61.3 years) and 339 age‐ and sex‐matched dementia‐free controls, taken an average of 9.4 years before AD diagnosis, were analyzed using Luminex xMAP technology and INNO‐BIA plasma Aβ form assays to determine concentrations of free plasma Aβ40 and Aβ42.

Results

Plasma concentrations of free Aβ40 and Aβ42 did not differ between preclinical AD cases and dementia‐free controls, in the full sample or in subgroups defined according to sex and age group (<60 and ≥ 60 years). The interval between sampling and AD diagnosis did not affect the results. Aβ concentrations did not change in the years preceding AD diagnosis among individuals for whom longitudinal samples were available.

Discussion

Plasma concentrations of free Aβ could not predict the development of clinical AD, and Aβ concentrations did not change in the years preceding AD diagnosis in this sample. These results indicate that free plasma Aβ is not a useful biomarker for the identification of individuals at risk of developing clinical AD.
Strengthening of Quadriceps by Neuromuscular Magnetic Stimulation in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Yang Shin‐seung , Jee Sungju , Hwang Seon Lyul , Sohn Min Kyun
Published: January 2017

Background

Quadriceps muscle strengthening is one of the rehabilitation strategies for improving walking in some people with gait impairments, and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has been used for that reason. The strengthening effect of neuromuscular magnetic stimulation (NMMS) on the quadriceps has been demonstrated in various conditions, but not specifically for gait training. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the effect of NMMS is clinically applicable.

Objective

To determine the effect of NMMS on quadriceps muscle strength, cross‐sectional area (CSA) and thickness in healthy subjects.

Design

Single‐blind, prospective, case‐control study.

Setting

Tertiary academic hospital setting.

Participants

A total of 40 healthy volunteers were randomly assigned to an NMMS (n = 20) or control group (n = 20).

Interventions

Fifteen minutes of quadriceps NMMS of at maximum tolerable intensity, 3 times per week for 5 weeks.

Main Outcome Measurements

At baseline and after the intervention, the CSA and thicknesses of the rectus femoris and vastus intermedius were measured by ultrasound. Isometric and isokinetic maximal and average peak torques of the dominant side knee extensors were also measured at pre‐ and postintervention.

Results

There were no between‐group differences in strength, CSA, or muscle thickness at baseline. Isometric maximum and average peak torque of NMMS group were increased significantly after 5 weeks of intervention (P < .001). The isokinetic maximum and average peak torque of NMMS group were increased significantly at both angle velocities of 60°/sec and 120°/sec after 5 weeks of intervention (P < .001). However, neither group showed a significant difference in cross‐sectional area or thickness after training.

Conclusion

NMMS can be a useful strengthening method for large skeletal muscles such as the quadriceps.

Level of Evidence

II