bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structurally characterized homotrinuclear Salamo‐type nickel(II) complexes: Synthesis, solvent effect and fluorescence properties
Authors: Kang Quan‐Peng , Li Xiao‐Yan , Zhao Qing , Ma Jian‐Chun , Dong Wen‐Kui
Published: April 2018

Four new solvent‐induced Ni(II) complexes with chemical formulae [{NiL(μ2‐OAc)(MeOH)}2Ni]·2MeOH (1), [{NiL(μ2‐OAc)}2(n‐PrOH)(H2O)Ni]·n‐PrOH (2), [{NiL(μ2‐OAc)(DMF)}2Ni] (3) and [{NiL(μ2‐OAc)(DMSO)}2Ni]·2DMSO (4), (H2L = 4‐Nitro‐4′‐chloro‐2,2′‐[(1,3‐propylene)dioxybis(nitrilomethylidyne)]diphenol) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, FT‐IR, UV–Vis spectra and X‐ray crystallography. X‐ray crystal structure determinations revealed that each of the Ni(II) complexes 1–4 consists of three Ni(II) atoms, two completely deprotonated (L)2− units, two μ2‐acetate ions and two coordinated solvent molecules (solvents are methanol, n‐propanol, water, N,N‐dimethylformamide and dimethyl sulphoxide, respectively). Although the four complexes 1–4 were synthesized in different solvents, it is worthwhile that the Ni(II) atoms in the four complexes 1–4 adopt hexa–coordinated with slightly distorted octahedral coordination geometries, and the ratios of the ligand H2L to Ni(II) atoms are all 2: 3. The complexes 1–4 possess self‐assembled infinite 1D, 3D, 1D and 2D supramolecular structures via the intermolecular hydrogen bonds, respectively. In addition, fluorescence behaviors were investigated in the complexes 1–4.
Development of stable and active PVA‐PSSA/SA‐PVA catalytic composite membrane for esterification enhancement
Authors: Han Shang , Li Yuewen , Bai Shutong , Zhang Li , Li Weixing , Xing Weihong
Published: April 2018

An active and stable catalytic composite membrane (CCM), poly(vinyl alcohol)–poly(styrene sulfonic acid)/sodium alginate–poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA‐PSSA/SA‐PVA), was prepared to enhance the esterification of ethanol and propionic acid. The morphologies and crystal structures of the CCMs were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The effects of catalytic layer thickness, mass ratio of PVA to PSSA, concentration of catalytic layer solution, ratio of reaction volume to membrane area, and molar ratio of propionic acid to ethanol were discussed. The pervaporation results showed that the flux of CCM increased from 118 to 320 g m−2 h−1 compared with the SA‐PVA membrane because of the close affinity and low resistance of PSSA to water. After crosslinking with 3‐aminopropylmethyldiethoxysilane, the CCMs had good catalytic activities. The acid conversion reached 92.8% at 75 °C in 12 h, and the stabilization of the CCM was greatly improved. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46514.
Nanocomposite materials based on zinc sulfide nanoparticles reinforced chlorinated styrene butadiene rubber
Authors: Jasna V. C. , Anilkumar T. , Ramesan M. T.
Published: April 2018

The effect of zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticles in chlorinated styrene‐butadiene rubber (Cl‐SBR) was analyzed by X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry, and impedance analyzer. The cure time, mechanical properties, and solvent transport of petroleum fuels through the Cl‐SBR/ZnS nanocomposites at different temperatures were evaluated. XRD and SEM studies showed that ZnS nanoparticles were well‐placed in the polymeric structure of Cl‐SBR. The increased glass transition temperature of the composite with the loading of nanoparticles indicated the increased molecular rigidity. Rheometric torque, alternating current conductivity, dielectric property, tensile strength, tear resistance, modulus, hardness, abrasion resistance, heat build‐up, and compression set were increased with the loading of nanoparticles, however, cure and scorch time, elongation at break, and resilience were reduced with the loading of nanoparticles. The diffusion results have been explained in terms of the size of liquid molecules and the diffusion mechanism was found to follow the anomalous trend. The activation energy for diffusion, sorption and permeation process was evaluated. These activation energy parameters were increased with the size of the penetrant molecules and also with the loading of nanoparticles. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46538.
The Concept of ‘Community of Common Destiny’ in China's Diplomacy: Meaning, Motives and Implications
Authors: Zhang Denghua
Published: April 2018

‘Community of common destiny’, a new concept in China's diplomacy, has been increasingly used by the Chinese government, especially President Xi Jinping, on international occasions. Given the paucity of academic research on the concept, this paper aims to fill the gap and examine three aspects: meaning, motives and implications. Building upon the author's long observation of China's foreign policy, the paper argues that this concept of ‘community of common destiny’ is vague in meaning and loosely used by China. While initially proposed by China to mend ties with neighbouring states in the context of escalating territorial disputes, the concept constitutes part of China's long‐term strategy to maintain a peaceful ‘period of strategic opportunity’ in the first two to three decades of the 21st century to further develop itself. However, the ambiguity of the concept poses a main challenge for China to promote the acceptance of this concept by the developing world, let alone developed countries. This process demands more transparency, commitment and concrete actions from China.
Study of Normal and Abnormal Prenatal Development Using the Kyoto Collection of Human Embryos
Authors: Shiota Kohei
Published: April 2018

Four topics on normal and abnormal human prenatal development are briefly reviewed. These studies were made possible by using the Kyoto Collection of Human Embryos, the largest collection of human embryo specimens procured after therapeutic abortion. The topics discussed include: (1) variability of human embryo development and implications for clinical teratology, (2) abnormal development in human embryos and intrauterine fate of human conceptuses, (3) holoprosencephaly, and (4) maternal hyperthermia in early pregnancy and birth defects. Anat Rec, 301:955–959, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cranial Pair 0: The Nervus Terminalis
Authors: Peña‐Melián Ángel , Cabello‐de la Rosa Juan Pablo , Gallardo‐Alcañiz Maria José , Vaamonde‐Gamo Julia , Relea‐Calatayud Fernanda , González‐López Lucía , Villanueva‐Anguita Patricia , Flores‐Cuadrado Alicia , Saiz‐Sánchez Daniel , Martínez‐Marcos Alino
Published: April 2018

Originally discovered in elasmobranchs by Fritsh in 1878, the nervus terminalis has been found in virtually all species, including humans. After more than one‐century debate on its nomenclature, it is nowadays recognized as cranial pair zero. The nerve mostly originates in the olfactory placode, although neural crest contribution has been also proposed. Developmentally, the nervus terminalis is clearly observed in human embryos; subsequently, during the fetal period loses some of its ganglion cells, and it is less recognizable in adults. Fibers originating in the nasal cavity passes into the cranium through the middle area of the cribiform plate of the ethmoid bone. Intracranially, fibers joint the telencephalon at several sites including the olfactory trigone and the primordium of the hippocampus to reach preoptic and precommissural regions. The nervus terminalis shows ganglion cells, that sometimes form clusters, normally one or two located at the base of the crista galli, the so‐called ganglion of the nervus terminalis. Its function is uncertain. It has been described that its fibers facilitates migration of luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone cells to the hypothalamus thus participating in the development of the hypothalamic–gonadal axis, which alteration may provoke Kallmann's syndrome in humans. This review summarizes current knowledge on this structure, incorporating original illustrations of the nerve at different developmental stages, and focuses on its anatomical and clinical relevance. Anat Rec, 302:394–404, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Postmigratory Alar Topography of Visceral Cranial Nerve Efferents Challenges the Classical Model of Hindbrain Columns
Authors: Puelles Luis , Tvrdik Petr , Martínez‐de‐la‐torre Margaret
Published: April 2018

The classic columnar model of cranial nerve central representation assumes that all motor and sensory hindbrain neurons develop within four radial migration domains, held to be separated by a sulcal alar–basal boundary (sulcus limitans). This essay reviews a number of developmental data that challenge these concepts. These results are interpreted within the framework of present day neuromeric conception of the brainstem (the prosomeric model). Advances in dorsoventral patterning of the spinal cord and hindbrain now show that there exist up to eight alar microzones and five basal microzones (molecularly and histogenetically distinct longitudinal progenitor domains). This reveals that the classic tetracolumnar model is excessively simplistic. There is both older and recent data revealing that the visceral efferent neurons of the cranial nerves (preganglionic and branchiomotor neurons) are generated next to the floor plate and later migrate dorsalwards before adopting their final topography in the mantle, contrary to the purely radial migration assumed in the classic model. Moreover, various results support the conclusion that at least the branchiomotor neurons end their migration and mature within the alar region of the mantle. Evidence on this point obtained in chick embryos is reviewed in detail, and novel evidence in mouse embryos is presented. Anat Rec, 302:485–504, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dinuclear Dy2 Single‐Molecule Magnets: Functional Modulation on the Bridging Ligand and Different Relaxation Performances within the Single‐Crystal to Single‐Crystal System
Authors: Zhang Wan‐Ying , Chen Peng , Li Hong‐Feng , Zhang Yi‐Quan , Yan Peng‐Fei , Sun Wen‐Bin
Published: April 2018

Crystal structures, single‐molecule magnetic behavior, and ab initio calculations of four new phenoxo‐bridged dinuclear dysprosium complexes and their gadolinium(III) analogues are explored. Complexes [Dy2(DMOMP)2(DBM)4]2⋅CHCl3 (1; DMOMP=1‐methyl‐3,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐hydroxybenzene, DBM=1,3‐diphenylpropane‐1,3‐dione); [Dy2(DMOAP)2(DBM)4]2⋅CHCl3 (2; DMOAP=syringaldehyde); Dy2(DMOEP)2(DBM)4 (3; DMOEP=methyl syringate); and solvent‐free Dy2(DMOMP)2(DBM)4 (4), which is obtained by the transformation of single crystal into single crystal from 1, have nearly identical core structures and only differ in the substituents at the para position of the phenol moieties of the bridging ligand. In this system, the electronic effects are efficiently implemented to significantly modify the ligand field strength and exchange coupling by modulating the substituents on the phenol backbone. The effective energy barrier (Ueff) of magnetization reversal is improved significantly to fivefold magnitude, at most, and the hysteresis temperature up to 3.5 K by deliberately using the electron‐withdrawing substituent to replace the electron‐donating one. The origin of the two relaxation processes in 1 is mostly attributed to the existence of two molecules in one unit, which is illuminated by means of the transformation of single crystal into single crystal.
Explaining reluctance to benefit from others' misfortune
Authors: Lelieveld Gert‐Jan , Inbar Yoel , van Dijk Eric
Published: April 2018

The current article investigates decisions where people are not causing harm to others, but only benefit from the harm. Specifically, we assessed people's willingness to benefit from other's chance‐caused misfortunes. In 5 studies, examining real behavior of individuals in a television game show (Study 1) and using experimental betting tasks (Studies 2–5), we show that people are reluctant to benefit from the misfortunes of others. Although in all studies participants' decisions were objectively unrelated to the likelihood of misfortune befalling others, subsequent analyses indicate that people erroneously feel that benefitting from others' misfortune increases the likelihood that such harm will actually occur. The results are discussed in relation to the literature on moral decision‐making and magical thinking.
Effect of pharmacological modulation of actin and myosin on collective cell electrotaxis
Authors: Bashirzadeh Yashar , Poole Jonathan , Qian Shizhi , Maruthamuthu Venkat
Published: April 2018

Electrotaxis—the directional migration of cells in response to an electric field—is most evident in multicellular collectives and plays an important role in physiological contexts. While most cell types respond to applied electric fields of the order of a Volt per centimeter, our knowledge of the factors influencing this response is limited. This is especially true for collective cell electrotaxis, in which the subcellular migration response within a cell has to be coordinated with coupled neighboring cells. Here, we investigated the effect of the level of actin cytoskeleton polymerization and myosin activity on collective cell electrotaxis of Madin‐Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells in response to a weak electric field of physiologically relevant magnitude. We modulated the polymerization state of the actin cytoskeleton using the depolymerizing agent cytochalasin D or the polymerizing agent jasplakinolide. We also modulated the contractility of the cell using the myosin motor inhibitor blebbistatin or the phosphatase inhibitor calyculin A. While all the above pharmacological treatments altered cell speed to various extents, we found that only increasing the contractility and a high level of increase/stabilization of polymerized actin had a strong inhibitory effect specifically on the directedness of collective cell electrotaxis. On the other hand, even as the effect of the actin modulators on collective cell migration was varied, most conditions of actin and myosin pharmacological modulation—except for high level of actin polymerization/stabilization—resulted in cell speeds that were similar in the absence or presence of the electric field. Our results led us to speculate that the applied electric field may largely impact the cellular apparatus specifying the polarity of collective cell migration, rather than the functioning of the migratory apparatus. Bioelectromagnetics. 39:289–298, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fernwärmezentrale Waldau, St. Gallen
Authors: Seelhofer Hans
Published: April 2018

Die Sankt Galler Stadtwerke errichteten als erstes technisches Gebäude für die Umsetzung des Energiekonzepts 2050 in der Stadt St. Gallen die neue Fernwärmezentrale Waldau. Das in vieler Hinsicht ungewöhnliche Bauwerk gliedert sich im Wesentlichen in ein Untergeschoss in Ortbeton sowie eine aufgesetzte Halle in Betonbauweise. Das Tragwerk der als Systembau konzipierten Halle basiert auf einem quadratischen Tragraster mit 6 m Seitenlänge, welches sich bei einheitlichem, wiedererkennbarem Erscheinungsbild an verschiedenen Orten und für unterschiedliche Nutzungen der Werke einsetzen lässt. In Querrichtung bilden aus vorfabrizierten Betonelementen gefügte, vorgespannte Zweigelenkrahmen das Primärtragwerk, das entlang der Fassaden mit Längsrahmen ergänzt ist. Zwischen den Rahmenstielen vor Ort eingefügte Ausfachungen aus Recyclingbeton mit Mischabbruchzuschlägen bilden die sichtbaren Fassadenflächen. In der Dachebene gewährleisten faltwerkartig gestaltete Sheddachhauben aus vorfabrizierten Betonelementen eine Belichtung des Innenraums von Norden her. Als weitere Besonderheit weist die Halle zwei rund 6,0 m hohe Tore mit Betontorflügeln auf, welche den Austausch großer Technikkomponenten ermöglichen.
Quartz Crystal Microbalance as Cell‐Based Biosensor to Detect and Study Cytoskeletal Alterations and Dynamics
Authors: Bianco Monica , Vergara Daniele , De Domenico Stefania , Maffia Michele , Gaballo Antonio , Arima Valentina
Published: April 2018

Several techniques can be used to monitor cell dynamism after a perturbation. Among these, Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation Monitoring (QCM‐D) offers the great advantage to study the mechanical properties of cells in real‐time and with a great sensitivity. Here, we used QCM‐D to investigate the effects of two cytoskeleton‐targeting agents, cytochalasin D (CytoD) and Y27632, on human MCF‐7 cells. Cell adhesion on the sensor surface, crucial for in‐flow experiments, was obtained by covalent adsorption of a fibronectin (FN) film, an extracellular matrix (ECM) protein. Direct analysis of MCF‐7 cells on FN‐coated sensor, shows a specific cellular response that was revealed and quantified by QCM‐D after drugs exposure. Notably, upon treatment with Y27632, we observed a two‐regime dissipation behavior that we associated with specific modifications of actin filaments and signaling proteins providing a link between biophysical and molecular mechanisms. Overall, this approach opens new opportunities for studying cellular response to mechanical cues in different biological conditions.
Relationships between activity and well‐being in people with parkinson's disease
Authors: Ehlen Felicitas , Schindlbeck Katharina , Nobis Lisa , Maier André , Klostermann Fabian
Published: April 2018

Objectives

The complex symptomatology of Parkinson’ disease (PD) usually goes along with reduced physical activity. Previous studies have indicated positive effects of activating therapies on patients’ well‐being. This study, therefore, examined how activity in daily life is related to patients’ subjective condition.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐one PD patients rated their condition every two hours during two routine days and documented the duration and type of their activities (based on the PRISCUS‐Physical Activity Questionnaire) during the respective time intervals. They were furthermore assessed regarding motor and nonmotor symptoms, personality factors, and coping strategies.

Results

Patients spent on average 8.59 ± 2.93 hr per day at physical rest and 5.47 ± 2.93 hr physically active. We found highly significant associations between positive condition ratings (such as happiness, motivation, and concentration) and the duration of subsequent physical activities (adj.r2 = .689) as well as between the duration of these activities and a subsequent improvement in the subjective condition (adj.r2 = .545). This was strongest in patients using active coping strategies and showing agreeable and conscientious personality traits (adj.r2 = .380). Nonmotor symptom severity was weakly inversely related to the daily amount of activities (adj.r2 = .273), whereas no significant association with motor symptom severity was found.

Conclusions

The results suggest a feedback process between a positive subjective condition and physical activities in PD patients. This appears to depend on the use of active coping strategies and nonmotor symptoms rather than on motor symptom severity. The results should encourage physicians to address the importance of everyday physical activities and to provide patients with behavioral advice.
Another new organ! is this a golden age of discovery in anatomy?
Authors: Neumann Paul E.
Published: April 2018

Twice in fifteen months the popular press has published reports of the discovery of a new human organ. The claims that the mesentery and interstitium are organs come from medical practitioners, not from anatomical scientists. Although both of these anatomical entities are important in the functioning of the body, neither satisfies the requirements that an organ be composed of two or more tissues and perform a special function. Also missing in the recent claim that the interstitium, that is, connective tissues with fluid‐filled spaces, is an organ, is a statement to that effect in the original research report. Alas, it appears to be much ado about nothing. Clin. Anat. 31:648–649, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Effect of Zn(II) Ions and Reactive Oxygen on the Uptake of Zinc and Production of Carotenoids by Selected Red Yeasts
Authors: Breierová Emília , Čertík Milan , Márová Ivana , Vadkertiová Renáta
Published: April 2018

Three strains of red yeast Rhodosporidium kratochvilovae, Rhodotorula glutinis and Sporidiobolus salmonicolor were studied for their responses to the presence metal stress, oxidative stress and a combination of these stress factors. For all yeast strains, the production of β‐carotene increased in stress conditions. The combination of H2O2 and Zn2+ significantly activated the pathways for the production of torularhodin in the strain R. glutinis (from 250 to 470 μg g−1 DCW) as well as β‐carotene (from 360 to 1100 μg g−1 DCW) and torulene (from 100 to 360 μg g−1 DCW) in Sp. salmonicolor. Strains of R. glutinis and Rh. kratochvilovae bound the majority of Zn(II) ions to the fibrillar part of the cell walls, whereas the strain Sp. salmonicolor bound them to both extracellular polymers and the fibrillar part of the cell walls. A decrease in the ability of yeasts to tolerate higher concentrations of Zn(II) in the presence of free radicals (hydrogen peroxide) was also found.
Are schools the best places to provide mental health services?
Authors: Hellmuth Jennifer
Published: April 2018

The provision of mental health services in schools has become an increasingly popular discussion topic, likely due to the unfortunate rise in violence within schools. However, implementing school‐based mental health services can be much more complex than it may seem. Some people question whether schools are an appropriate setting to offer mental health services and supports, while others, who might otherwise agree with the importance of school‐based mental health, do not believe that funding for these services or programs should come out of educational budgets. With mental health services for school‐age children being offered in clinical settings, are these supports necessary in schools? If schools already have school counselors and school psychologists who can address the social and emotional challenges of students, why should schools hire additional personnel to provide mental health supports? These are some of the comments and questions that commonly arise in discussions regarding school‐based mental health resources, and the answers to these questions are not always straightforward.
Improving Student Progress and Completion of Developmental English
Authors: Bers Trudy H.
Published: April 2018

This chapter describes and reviews new approaches to revising developmental English, the effectiveness of these approaches, and a synthesis of lessons learned from them.
Developmental Education Reform Outcomes by Subpopulation
Authors: Brathwaite Jessica , Edgecombe Nikki
Published: April 2018

This chapter discusses the importance of scrutinizing the outcomes of developmental education reforms across race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, and level of developmental need.
Multiple Measures Placement in North Carolina
Authors: Barbitta Susan , Munn William
Published: April 2018

This chapter considers the case of placement tests, examining students who enter community college gateway math and English courses.
Lessons Learned from Developmental Education Data
Authors: Clery Sue , Frye Bobbie E.
Published: April 2018

This chapter identifies some of the challenges surrounding data collection and analysis regarding development students, including testing and identifying academic needs, placement determination, and measuring student outcomes.
Echocardiography in non‐ischemic cardiomyopathies: differential diagnosis from athlete's heart
Authors: Dores H. , Cardim N.
Published: April 2018

Regular exercise training induces several cardiac physiological adaptations commonly referred as “athlete's heart.” These changes can overlap pathological findings present in several cardiac diseases, mainly cardiomyopathies, associated with sudden cardiac death. The differentiation between physiological and pathological findings is often challenging and clinical decision making in such cases can be difficult: missing a condition associated with an increased risk of life‐threatening events has significant clinical impact, whereas the disqualification of a healthy athlete from competition can lead to severe psychological and socioeconomic burden. Echocardiography assumes a central role to evaluate cardiac remodeling in athletes. This paper provides an up‐to‐date and practical review of the role of echocardiography in differentiation non‐ischemic cardiomyopathies from “athlete's heart.”
High‐density mapping to guide ablation of a right bundle branch morphology premature ventricular contraction from the right outflow tract
Authors: De Simone Antonio , La Rocca Vincenzo , Panella Alfonso , Bianchi Valter , Maddaluno Francesco , Stabile Giuseppe , Garcia Bolao Ignacio
Published: April 2018

Key Clinical Message

The Rhythmia ultrahigh‐density mapping system with a specific algorithm seems to be helpful in identifying the target area to successfully treat multiple morphologies by catheter ablation in the right ventricular outflow tract RVOT. Interestingly, the acquisition process seemed to be extremely faster than a standard manual point‐by‐point premature ventricular contraction (PVC) mapping.
Comparison between acute kidney injury (AKI) and non‐AKI patients secondary to severe hypothyroidism
Authors: Han Bing , Cheng Tong , Ye Lin , Sui Chunhua , Yang Lizhen , Lin Dongping , Qiao Jie , Lu Yingli
Published: April 2018

Key Clinical Message

Hypothyroidism was a rare cause of rhabdomyolysis, which finally progressed to acute kidney injury (AKI). We compared nine patients with AKI secondary to hypothyroidism and six patients with severe hypothyroidism. Besides creatine kinase, globulin could be an alternative biomarker of rhabdomyolysis related to hypothyroidism.
Hepatoblastoma in a child with dextrocardia and possible histopathological alteration reminiscent of hepatocellular carcinoma after neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Papry Afsana , Kamal Mohammed , Khalid Muhammad Syeef
Published: April 2018

Key Clinical Message

It is quite unambiguous and interesting that postchemotherapy histology of hepatoblastoma may mimicry that of hepatocellular carcinoma which should be differentiated by proper immunohistochemistry and cytology, if possible, for further management and predict prognosis.
Cover Picture: Understanding Zeolites Catalyzed Methanol‐to‐Olefins Conversion from Theoretical Calculations (Chin. J. Chem. 5/2018)
Authors: Wang Chuanming , Wang Yangdong , Xie Zaiku
Published: April 2018

The cover picture shows the complexity of the reaction mechanism of zeolites catalyzed methanol‐to‐olefins (MTO) conversion. The MTO process plays a vital role in the production of light olefins from nonpetroleum resources. Despite of the successful industrialization of the MTO process in China, the detailed reaction mechanism is not yet well understood. The theoretical studies on the MTO hydrocarbon pool mechanism by the Group of Xie are summarized in the Chemistry Author Up Close by Xie et al. on page 381–386.

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Specific biomarkers of myocardial inflammation and remodeling processes as predictors of mortality in high‐risk patients undergoing percutaneous mitral valve repair (MitraClip)
Authors: Dörr Oliver , Walther Claudia , Liebetrau Christoph , Keller Till , Tabert Hannes , Boeder Niklas , Bayer Matthias , Bauer Pascal , Möllmann Helge , Gaede Luise , Troidl Christian , Voss Sandra , Bauer Timm , Hamm Christian W. , Nef Holger
Published: April 2018

Background

Specific matrix metalloproteinases (MMP‐2, MMP‐9) and inflammatory biomarkers (hsCRP, IL‐6) were found to be consistently up‐regulated in severe mitral valve regurgitation (MR) and are associated with mortality in heart failure patients. The aim of the present study was to examine the prognostic value of biomarkers of cardiac inflammation and remodeling processes in predicting mortality in patients with MR undergoing percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR).

Hypothesis

We hypothesize that increased cardiac inflammation and extracellular matrix turnover is predictive for mortality in patients with severe mitral regurgitation undergoing MitraClip.

Methods

A total of 210 consecutive patients undergoing PMVR were included. PMVR was performed according to standard clinical practice. Venous blood samples for biomarker analyses were collected prior to and 6 months after PMVR. Physiological parameters, medication use, safety events, and all‐cause mortality were followed over 12 months.

Results

PMVR was performed successfully in all patients. Twelve months after PMVR there was an effective reduction in the severity of MR (P < 0.001), and an improvement in New York Heart Association class (P < 0.01) was documented. Elevated inflammatory biomarkers (AUChsCRP: 0.738 [IQR, 0.626–0.849], P = 0.001; AUCIL‐6: 0.811 [IQR, 0.724–0.899], P = 0.001) and biomarkers reflecting cardiac remodeling processes (AUCMMP‐2: 0.723 [IQR, 0.641–0.804], P = 0.001; AUCMMP‐9: 0.618 [IQR, 0.534–0.701], P = 0.01) were predictors of adverse cardiac events and mortality in patients with congestive heart failure undergoing PMVR.

Conclusions

The present study is the first to identify biomarkers reflecting inflammation (hsCRP, IL‐6) and cardiac remodeling processes (MMP‐2, MMP‐9) as predictors of mortality in high‐risk patients undergoing PMVR.
Usefulness of inferior vena cava ultrasonography in outpatients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Curbelo Jose , Aguilera Maria , Rodriguez‐Cortes Pablo , Gil‐Martinez Paloma , Suarez Fernandez Carmen
Published: April 2018

Background

Inferior vena cava (IVC) ultrasonography has been used for the diagnosis and prognosis of acute heart failure (HF). Its usefulness in chronic HF is less known.

Hypothesis

IVC ultrasonography is a useful tool in the care of patients with chronic HF.

Methods

For this prospective cohort study, 95 patients with chronic HF were included consecutively as they attended scheduled medical visits. Ultrasound was done with a 5‐MHz convex probe device, calculating IVC collapse index (IVCCI). Follow‐up time was 1 year. Outcome events were worsening HF, hospital admission for HF, HF mortality, and all‐cause mortality.

Results

Worsening HF occurred in 70.9% of patients with IVCCI <30% and 39.1% of patients with IVCCI >50%, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.8 (95% CI: 1.3–6.2) adjusted by multivariable analysis. Regarding hospitalization, 45.3% of patients with IVCCI <30% required admission, compared with 5.9% of patients with IVCCI >50%; the adjusted HR was 13.9 (95% CI: 1.7–113.0). Mortality was higher in the IVCCI <30% group, with 25.7% all‐cause mortality and 18.6% HF mortality, whereas in the IVCCI >50% group these values were 13% and 4.7%, respectively. However, these differences did not reach statistical significance. ROC analysis was performed and the AUC for IVCCI was not higher than that for NTproBNP for any of the outcomes studied.

Conclusions

IVC ultrasonography is a useful tool in follow‐up of patients with chronic HF, allowing identification of patients at high risk of worsening and hospitalization. However, its usefulness is not higher than that of NTproBNP.
Uninterrupted administration of edoxaban vs vitamin K antagonists in patients undergoing atrial fibrillation catheter ablation: Rationale and design of the ELIMINATE‐AF study.
Authors: Hohnloser Stefan H. , Camm John , Cappato Riccardo , Diener Hans‐Christoph , Heidbuchel Hein , Lanz Hans‐Joachim , Mont Lluís , Morillo Carlos A. , Smolnik Rüdiger , Yin Ophelia Q.P. , Kautzner Josef
Published: April 2018

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are at an approximately 0.5% to 3% increased risk of thromboembolism during and immediately after catheter ablation. Treatment guidelines recommend periprocedural oral anticoagulation plus unfractionated heparin during ablation. Rivaroxaban and dabigatran are the only non–vitamin K oral anticoagulants for which there are randomized controlled trials assessing uninterrupted anticoagulation in patients undergoing catheter ablation of AF. Edoxaban, a direct factor Xa inhibitor, is noninferior vs warfarin for the prevention of stroke or systemic embolism with less major bleeding in patients with nonvalvular AF. The ELIMINATE‐AF (Evaluation of Edoxaban Compared With VKA in Subjects Undergoing Catheter Ablation of Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation) trial is a multinational, multicenter, prospective, randomized, open‐label, parallel‐group, blinded‐endpoint evaluation (PROBE) study to assess the safety and efficacy of once‐daily edoxaban 60 mg (30 mg in patients indicated for a dose reduction) vs vitamin K antagonists (VKA) in patients with nonvalvular AF undergoing catheter ablation (http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02942576). A total of 560 patients are planned for randomization to edoxaban or VKA (2:1 ratio) to obtain 450 patients fully compliant with the protocol. Patients will complete 21 to 28 days of anticoagulation prior to the ablation and a 90‐day post‐ablation period. The primary efficacy endpoint is the composite of all‐cause death, stroke, and major bleeding. The primary safety endpoint is major bleeding. A magnetic resonance imaging substudy will assess the incidence of silent cerebral lesions post‐ablation. ELIMINATE‐AF will define the efficacy and safety of edoxaban for uninterrupted oral anticoagulation during catheter ablation of AF.
Is pathology prepared for the adoption of artificial intelligence?
Authors: Wong Stephen T.C.
Published: April 2018

Clinician's Corner represents the opinions and views of the author and does not reflect any policy or opinion of the American Cancer Society, Cancer Cytopathology, or Wiley unless this is clearly specified.
Developmental trajectories and influences of environmental complexity on oxytocin receptor and vasopressin 1A receptor expression in male and female prairie voles
Authors: Prounis George S. , Thomas Kyle , Ophir Alexander G.
Published: April 2018

Nonapeptide receptors, like oxytocin receptor (OTR) and vasopressin 1a receptor (V1aR), modulate a variety of functions across taxa, and mediate phenotypic variation within and between species. Despite the popularity of studying nonapeptides in adults, developmental perspectives on properties of OTR and V1aR expression are lacking. Study of prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) has facilitated an understanding of mechanisms of social behavior and provides great potential to inform how early life experiences alter phenotype. We provide the first comprehensive profiling of OTR and V1aR in male and female prairie voles across postnatal development and into adulthood. Differences in receptor densities across the forebrain were region‐ and sex‐specific. Postnatal changes in receptor expression fell into four themes: (a) constant over time, (b) increasing with age, (c) decreasing with age, or (d) peaking during late pre‐weaning (postnatal day 15–21). We also examined the influence of post‐weaning social and spatial enrichment (i.e., environmental complexity) on OTR and V1aR. Environmental complexity appeared to promote expression of OTR in males and females, and reduced expression of V1aR across several brain regions in males. Our results show that nonapeptide receptor profiles are plastic over development and suggest that different patterns of expression might represent functional differences in sensitivity to nonapeptide activation over a period when social environments are dynamic. Our results on environmental complexity suggest that nonapeptide sensitivity responds flexibly to different environmental contexts during development. Understanding the developmental trajectories of nonapeptide receptors provides a better understanding of the dynamic nature of social behavior and the underlying mechanisms.
Myelination of the developing lateral olfactory tract and anterior commissure
Authors: Collins L. N. , Hill D. L. , Brunjes P. C.
Published: April 2018

Both the lateral olfactory tract (LOT) and anterior limb of the anterior commissure (AC) carry olfactory information. The LOT forms the projection from the olfactory bulb to the ipsilateral olfactory cortices, while the AC carries odor information across the midline to the contralateral olfactory cortex and bulb. The LOT and AC differ on a number of dimensions, including early development and functional onset. The present work, examining their myelination in mice, reveals additional important differences. For example, the LOT initiates myelination 3–4 days earlier than the AC, evidenced by both an earlier increase in myelin basic protein staining seen with immunohistochemistry and an earlier appearance of myelinated fibers using electron microscopy. While both exhibit a period of rapid myelination, it occurs 4–5 days earlier in the LOT than the AC. The tracts also respond differently to early sensory restriction. Unilateral naris occlusion from the day after birth to postnatal day 30 had no consistent effects on the AC but resulted in significantly thinner myelin sheaths relative to axon caliber in the LOT. Finally, the two tracts differ structurally (the LOT contains larger, more densely packed axons with significantly thicker myelin sheaths resulting in a conduction velocity that is more than twice as fast as the AC). The findings indicate that these two large, accessible tracts provide an important means for studying brain maturation due to basic differences in both the timing of their maturation and general organization.
Interplay Between Microwave Spectroscopy and X‐ray Diffraction: The Molecular Structure and Large Amplitude Motions of 2,3‐Dimethylanisole
Authors: Ferres Lynn , Truong Khai‐Nghi , Stahl Wolfgang , Nguyen Ha Vinh Lam
Published: April 2018

To determine the structural properties of 2,3‐dimethylanisole, a multidisciplinary approach was carried out where gas phase rotational spectroscopy recording a spectrum from 2 to 26.5 GHz using a pulsed molecular jet Fourier transform microwave spectrometer was combined with solid‐state X‐ray diffraction. Both methods revealed that only one conformer with a planar heavy‐atom structure exists. In the solid state, the packing in the monoclinic space group is P21/n with Z=4. In the gas phase spectrum, torsional splittings due to the internal rotations of two methyl groups attached to the phenyl ring were resolved and analyzed, providing an estimate of the barriers to methyl internal rotation of V3=26.9047(5) and 518.7(12) cm−1 for the methyl groups at the ortho‐ and meta‐position, respectively. The coupling between the two internal rotations is modeled on a two‐dimensional potential energy surface, which was obtained by quantum chemical calculations at the B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) level of theory.
Unique p–n Heterostructured Water‐Borne Nanoparticles Exhibiting Impressive Charge‐Separation Ability
Authors: Kim Yu Jin , Lee Byeongdu
Published: April 2018

The ecofriendly synthesis of organic semiconductors with heterojunctions is of interest and requires surfactants to stabilize colloidal nanoparticles (NPs) in aqueous solution. The use of conventional surfactants results in p–n heterostructured NPs, in which both p‐ and n‐type semiconductors are phase separated and confined within a core surrounded by the surfactant shell. The performances of these devices, however, are not comparable to those of solid organic semiconductor films. Further efforts are required to understand and control the morphological structure of the nanoparticles to improve their performances. Here, by using a new class of polyethyleneglycol‐based surfactant, PEG‐C60, we synthesized unique p–n heterostructured water‐borne NPs that comprise a p‐type semiconductor core and an n‐type PEG‐C60 shell. We demonstrate that the morphology gives rise to charge separation superior to conventional water‐borne NPs. These PEG‐C60‐based water‐borne NPs can, thus, provide a new paradigm in the current field of water‐based organic semiconductor colloids.
Assessing ion–electron thermal equilibration in the scrape‐off layer of tokamaks using UEDGE
Authors: Holm A. , Groth M. , Rognlien T.D.
Published: April 2018

The ion–electron thermal equilibration along the scrape‐off layer (SOL) has been assessed using an analytical, one‐dimensional (1D) model; a single‐flux tube model assessed with the multi‐fluid code UEDGE, and an orthogonal, two‐dimensional (2D) slab model in UEDGE for pure deuterium plasmas. These studies highlight the importance of thermal equipartition, radial transport, and loss processes in ion–electron thermal equilibration in the SOL and demonstrates the strong dependence of equipartition on local plasma parameters. For the 2D UEDGE cases, equipartition is predicted to cool the ions by up to a factor of 2 at the upstream location and to heat the electrons by up to a factor of 3, predominantly in front of the target. Diffusive radial transport into the private flux region and far SOL is predicted to reduce the upstream ion temperatures by up to 30% compared to the 1D UEDGE predictions, and volumetric power and momentum sinks (charge‐exchange, ionization, recombination, and hydrogen radiation) reduces the target ion and electron temperatures by up to one order of magnitude compared to a 1D model considering conduction and equipartition only. The losses and radial transport are, however, insufficient to achieve Ti ≈ Te in the absence of thermal equipartition due to losses affecting the ions and electrons asymmetrically. UEDGE simulations on a 2D slab predicts radially varying Ti/Te ratios due to radial transport, which is not considered in any 0D or 1D models of the SOL.
Generation of terahertz radiation via cosh‐Gaussian and top‐hat laser beams in a collisional magnetized plasma
Authors: Hematizadeh Ayoob , Jazayeri Masud , Ghafary Bijan
Published: April 2018

This paper presents a scheme to generate terahertz (THz) radiation by the beating of lasers in a rippled density collisional magnetized plasma. The laser beams exert a ponderomotive force on the electrons of plasma and impart them with oscillatory velocity at the different frequencies of lasers. The direction of the uniform static magnetic field makes an angle with respect to the propagation direction of laser beams; in this case, two‐mode waves can propagate in plasma. We derive the general formulas for efficiency and THz field amplitude with arbitrary laser beam profiles. The efficiency of the emitted radiations is found to be sensitive to laser profiles, the angle between laser beams and static magnetic field, collision frequency, and magnetic field strength. A comparison between the generated THz radiation by top‐hat and cosh‐Gaussian laser beams reveals, at the same conditions, that the generated THz radiation by top‐hat laser beams produces a stronger ponderomotive force and a higher efficiency.
Safeguarding and retrofitting works at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Takht‐e Soleyman, Iran
Authors: Burkert Toralf , Fuchs Christian , Schweinfurth Jörg
Published: April 2018

This article reports on the works safeguard in 2016 to secure the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Takht‐e Soleyman in the province of West Azerbaijan in the northwest of Iran. The site includes a fire temple and dates back to the sixth century AD. The complex was transformed by the Ilkhanids in the 13th century with extensive repair and building measures. From the 15th century, the complex was abandoned and decayed. In the 1970s, the north wall of the Western Eivan was first secured with steel scaffolding. The Chair of Structural design at the TU Dresden undertook works in 2016 to stabilise the Western Eivan in collaboration with the Iranian cultural heritage organisation (ICHHTO) and with financial support from the cultural maintenance programme of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany. The preliminary investigations until now and the work to the structure planned for 2018 are described below.
Intraocular metastasis of medullary thyroid carcinoma investigated by transscleral fine‐needle aspiration. A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Gajdzis Małgorzata , Cassoux Nathalie , Lesnik Maria , Hoffmann Caroline , Badois Nathalie , Gajdzis Paweł , Klijanienko Jerzy
Published: April 2018

Medullary thyroid carcinoma occurs in a sporadic setting and may also be inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion, which is related with germline mutations of the RET gene. Metastases are often present at the time of a diagnosis—most frequently within the cervical lymph nodes, followed by the liver, lungs, and bones. Intraocular metastases are extremely rare. We present a case of choroidal metastasis as a first presentation of disease progression in a patient with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2A syndrome (MEN2A) who had undergone thyroidectomy 33 years earlier for medullary thyroid carcinoma. Transscleral aspirate smears showed necrotic malignant cells suggesting amelanotic malignant melanoma or metastatic neuroendocrine tumor. The similar cells were found on parotid fine‐needle aspiration. The diagnosis of metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma was definitely established on the parotidectomy specimen based on its characteristic morphological and immunohistochemical features. This is the only case of ocular metastasis from medullary thyroid carcinoma found in the English literature that was investigated by pathological examination using transscleral fine‐needle aspiration biopsy.
Adult neurogenesis in the central olfactory pathway of dendrobranchiate and caridean shrimps: New insights into the evolution of the deutocerebral proliferative system in reptant decapods
Authors: Wittfoth Christin , Harzsch Steffen
Published: April 2018

Persistent neurogenesis in the central olfactory pathway characterizes many reptant decapods such as lobsters, crayfish and crabs. In these animals, the deutocerebral proliferative system generates new neurons which integrate into the neuronal network of the first order processing neuropil of the olfactory system, the deutocerebral chemosensory lobes (also called olfactory lobes). However, differences concerning the phenotype and the mechanisms that drive adult neurogenesis were reported in crayfish versus spiny lobsters. While numerous studies have focussed on these mechanisms and regulation of adult neurogenesis, investigations about the phylogenetic distribution are missing. To contribute an evolutionary perspective on adult neurogenesis in decapods, we investigated two representatives of basally diverging lineages, the dendrobranchiate Penaeus vannamei and the caridean Crangon crangon using the thymidine analogue Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) as marker for the S phase of cycling cells. Compared to reptant decapods, our results suggest a simpler mechanism of neurogenesis in the adult brain of dendrobranchiate and caridean shrimps. Observed differences in the rate of proliferation and spatial dimensions are suggested to correlate with the complexity of the olfactory system. We assume that a more complex and mitotically more active proliferative system in reptant decapods evolved with the emergence of another processing neuropil, the accessory lobes. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2018