bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Red‐Phosphorous‐Assisted Ball‐Milling Synthesis of Few‐Layered Ti3C2Tx (MXene) Nanodot Composite
Authors: Zhang Tianran , Jiang Xi , Li Guochun , Yao Qiaofeng , Lee Jim Yang
Published: August 2017

Layered two‐dimensional (2D) early transition metal carbides (MXenes) are a new class of 2D materials with established activity for electrochemical energy conversion and storage. The use of MXenes is expected to increase by reducing their lateral size to the nanoscale. Herein, using Ti3C2Tx (T=O, OH, F) MXenes as an example, we show that μm‐sized MXenes can be reduced in size to ≈6 nm nanodots by ball‐milling with red phosphorous (P). It is remarkable almost all starting MXenes were converted to nanodots with this method. The Ti3C2Tx surface O groups interacted with P strongly and chemically to drive the nanodots formation. Ti3C2Tx nanodots (TNDs) with different sizes could also be obtained by ball‐milling Ti3C2Tx with other solid‐state elements such as carbon, sulfur and silicon. The as‐prepared TNDs and P composite was evaluated as a sodium‐ion battery anode material. A good sodiation capacity (≈600 mA h g−1) at 260 mA g−1 and good cycle stability for 150 cycles were shown.
Kinetic Parameters for the Selective Hydrogenation of Acetylene on GaPd2 and GaPd
Authors: Zimmermann René R. , Hahn Tobias , Reschetilowski Wladimir , Armbrüster Marc
Published: August 2017

Intermetallic GaPd2 is a highly selective and stable catalyst for the semi‐hydrogenation of acetylene. Knowledge of the underlying reaction kinetics is essential to gain a deeper understanding of the selective hydrogenation on this catalytic material. To date, there has been no experimental kinetic data published for this reaction on a well‐defined intermetallic catalyst possessing isolated active sites. Kinetic measurements are performed at 140–200 °C, revealing an apparent activation energy of 29(2) kJ mol−1. GaPd2 is shown to be the first binary catalyst material, which shows a positive reaction order (0.89) with respect to acetylene at 200 °C. The influences on the extent of acetylene conversion, specific activity and selectivity to ethylene, ethane, and higher hydrocarbons are determined by a 24 factorial experiment following a design of experiments approach. Temperature and pressure have the strongest impact on these values. The results allow optimal operation for achieving high ethylene yields. A comparison of the reaction kinetics on GaPd2 with experimental results obtained for GaPd reveals different orders of reaction of H2 and C2H2 on the two compounds.
Catalytic Hydrodeoxygenation of High Carbon Furylmethanes to Renewable Jet‐fuel Ranged Alkanes over a Rhenium‐Modified Iridium Catalyst
Authors: Liu Sibao , Dutta Saikat , Zheng Weiqing , Gould Nicholas S. , Cheng Ziwei , Xu Bingjun , Saha Basudeb , Vlachos Dionisios G.
Published: August 2017

Invited for this month′s cover is the group of Basudeb Saha and Dionisios G. Vlachos at the Catalysis Center for Energy Innovation (CCEI), University of Delaware. The image shows the use of renewable aviation fuels produced from C−C coupled biomass platforms. The Full Paper itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.201700863.
Dysregulation of wound healing mechanisms in diabetes and the importance of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT)
Authors: Khamaisi Mogher , Balanson Sarit
Published: August 2017

Diabetes is a serious disease with severe side effects and comorbidities. Diabetic foot with its chronic nonhealing ulcers, or diabetic foot ulcers, as they are commonly called, can be devastating, even leading to amputation. Many therapies exist to assist and improve wound healing. One exciting discovery is the use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) as an adjunct to standard treatment. Few studies have substantively explored the molecular mechanisms of NPWT and why we see improved wound healing, a concept that demands more research. The following commentary summarizes the current literature regarding NPWT as well as some of the vast body of work that focuses on the physiologic mechanisms of wound healing in diabetics in general.
Invasive cane toads are unique in shape but overlap in ecological niche compared to Australian native frogs
Authors: Vidal‐García Marta , Keogh J. Scott
Published: August 2017

Invasive species are an important issue worldwide but predicting invasiveness, and the underlying mechanisms that cause it, is difficult. There are several primary hypotheses to explain invasion success. Two main hypothesis based on niche spaces stand out as alternative, although not exclusive. The empty niche hypothesis states that invaders occupy a vacant niche space in the recipient community, and the niche competition hypothesis states that invaders overlap with native species in niche space. Studies on trait similarity/dissimilarity between the invader and native species can provide information on their niche overlap. Here, we use the highly invasive and well‐studied cane toad (Rhinella marina) to test these two hypotheses in Australia, and assess its degree of overlap with native species in several niche dimensions. We compare extensive morphological and environmental data of this successful invader to 235 species (97%) of native Australian frogs. Our study is the first to document the significant morphological differences between the invasive cane toad and a continent‐wide frog radiation: despite significant environmental overlap, cane toads were distinct in body size and shape from most Australian frog species, suggesting that in addition to their previously documented phenotypic plasticity and wide environmental and trophic niche breadth, their unique shape also may have contributed to their success as an invasive species in Australia. Thus, the invasive success of cane toads in Australia may be explained through them successfully colonizing an empty niche among Australian anurans. Our results support that the cane toad's distinct morphology may have played a unique role in the invasiveness of this species in Australia, which coupled with a broad environmental niche breadth, would have boosted their ability to expand their distribution across Australia. We also proposeRLLR(Relative limb length ratio) as a potentially useful measure of identifying morphological niche uniqueness and a potential measure of invasiveness potential in anuran amphibians.
Genetic wealth, population health: Major histocompatibility complex variation in captive and wild ring‐tailed lemurs (Lemur catta)
Authors: Grogan Kathleen E. , Sauther Michelle L. , Cuozzo Frank P. , Drea Christine M.
Published: August 2017

Across species, diversity at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is critical to individual disease resistance and, hence, to population health; however, MHC diversity can be reduced in small, fragmented, or isolated populations. Given the need for comparative studies of functional genetic diversity, we investigated whether MHC diversity differs between populations which are open, that is experiencing gene flow, versus populations which are closed, that is isolated from other populations. Using the endangered ring‐tailed lemur (Lemur catta) as a model, we compared two populations under long‐term study: a relatively “open,” wild population (n = 180) derived from Bezà Mahafaly Special Reserve, Madagascar (2003–2013) and a “closed,” captive population (n = 121) derived from the Duke Lemur Center (DLC, 1980–2013) and from the Indianapolis and Cincinnati Zoos (2012). For all animals, we assessed MHC‐DRB diversity and, across populations, we compared the number of unique MHC‐DRB alleles and their distributions. Wild individuals possessed more MHC‐DRB alleles than did captive individuals, and overall, the wild population had more unique MHC‐DRB alleles that were more evenly distributed than did the captive population. Despite management efforts to maintain or increase genetic diversity in the DLC population, MHC diversity remained static from 1980 to 2010. Since 2010, however, captive‐breeding efforts resulted in the MHC diversity of offspring increasing to a level commensurate with that found in wild individuals. Therefore, loss of genetic diversity in lemurs, owing to small founder populations or reduced gene flow, can be mitigated by managed breeding efforts. Quantifying MHC diversity within individuals and between populations is the necessary first step to identifying potential improvements to captive management and conservation plans.
Detection and Identification of Image Manipulation Based on Reversible Histogram Shift
Authors: OBARA YUKI , NIWA YUSUKE , WADA SHIGEO
Published: August 2017

Verification of image manipulation for various alterations is an indispensable technology to protect original images. Conventional forgery detection methods using fingerprint are useful, since the original image is not required in detection process. However, manipulated local region can't be specified. Further, type of manipulation is not identified. In this article, a novel forgery identification method based on reversible histogram shift is proposed. Our method can detect partial and overall manipulation regions and identify manipulation type. Simulation results are shown to demonstrate the effectiveness of our method using various types of manipulated database images.
Review of Physiological Balance Sensing in an Unobtrusive Manner
Authors: OHASHI KEISHI , KUROIWA SHIGEKI , HIDESHIMA SHO , NAKANISHI TAKUYA , OSAKA TETSUYA
Published: August 2017

The concept of unobtrusive physiological balance sensing system implementing biosensors is discussed. Biosensors connected with a data system are expected to play a significant role when we extend the sensing objects from body to mind and spirit. Here, we describe the unobtrusive monitoring system using field effect transistor–type sensors and wireless communication devices. Substances subject to the survey of our research will include small ions, immunoglobulins, and hormones.
Power in Sustainability Transitions: Analysing power and (dis)empowerment in transformative change towards sustainability
Authors: Avelino Flor
Published: August 2017

This paper conceptualizes power and empowerment in the context of sustainability transitions and transition governance. The field of transition studies has been critically interrogated for undermining the role of power, which has inspired various endeavours to theorize power and agency in transitions. This paper presents the POwer‐IN‐Transition framework (POINT), which is developed as a conceptual framework to analyse power and (dis)empowerment in transformative social change, integrating transition concepts and multiple power and empowerment theories. The first section introduces transitions studies and discusses its state‐of‐the‐art regarding power. This is followed by a typology of power relations and different types of power (reinforcive, innovative, transformative). These notions are then used to reframe transition concepts, in particular the multi‐level perspective, in terms of power dynamics. The critical challenges of (dis)empowerment and unintended power implications of discourses on and policies for ‘sustainability transitions’ are discussed. The paper concludes with a synthesis of the arguments and challenges for future research. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Maintenance of CD8+ memory T lymphocytes in the spleen but not in the bone marrow is dependent on proliferation
Authors: Siracusa Francesco , Alp Özen Sercan , Maschmeyer Patrick , McGrath Mairi , Mashreghi Mir‐Farzin , Hojyo Shintaro , Chang Hyun‐Dong , Tokoyoda Koji , Radbruch Andreas
Published: August 2017

It is current belief that numbers of CD8+ memory T lymphocytes in the memory phase of an immune response are maintained by homeostatic proliferation. Here, we compare the proliferation of CD8+ memory T lymphocytes, generated by natural infections and by intentional immunization, in spleen and bone marrow (BM). Fifty percent of CD8+ memory T lymphocytes in the spleen are eliminated by cyclophosphamide within 14 days, indicating that numbers of at least 50% of splenic CD8+ memory T lymphocytes are maintained by proliferation. The numbers of CD8+ memory T lymphocytes in the BM, however, were not affected by cyclophosphamide. This stability was independent of circulating CD8+ memory T cells, blocked by FTY720, showing that BM is a privileged site for the maintenance of memory T lymphocytes, as resident cells, resting in terms of proliferation.
Vinyl‐Polyethylene Waxes with Narrow Dispersity Obtained by Using a Thermally Robust [Bis(imino)trihydroquinolyl]chromium Catalyst
Authors: Huang Chuanbing , Zhang Youfu , Solan Gregory A. , Ma Yanping , Hu Xinquan , Sun Yang , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: August 2017

Five structurally related chromium(III) complexes [2‐(ArNCMe)‐8‐(NAr)C9H8N]CrCl3 (Ar = 2,6‐Me2Ph: Cr1; 2,6‐Et2Ph: Cr2; 2,6‐iPr2Ph: Cr3; 2,4,6‐Me3Ph: Cr4; 2,6‐Et2‐4‐MePh: Cr5), each bearing an unsymmetrical bis(imino)trihydroquinoline ligand, were synthesized in good yield and fully characterized. The molecular structure of Cr2 reveals a distorted octahedral geometry at the metal center with the sterically bulky N,N,N ligand adopting a mer configuration. On activation with methylaluminoxane (MAO) or modified MAO, Cr1–Cr5 were highly active catalysts for ethylene polymerization operating most effectively at 80 °C [up to 15.96 × 106 g (PE)·mol–1 (Cr)·h–1]; even at 100 °C, the activity was still good [2.92 × 106 g (PE)·mol–1 (Cr)·h–1]. Highly linear polyethylene waxes of low molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution (polydispersity index: 1.1–1.8), incorporating predominantly vinyl/methyl and some methyl/methyl end groups were obtained. The influence of steric/electronic changes to the precatalyst and polymerization reaction parameters on the catalytic activity and the properties of the polymer product were the subject of a detailed investigation.
Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Catalysis at the Liquid/Liquid Interface by NixSy and NixSy/Carbon Nanotube Catalysts
Authors: Akin Ilker , Aslan Emre , Hatay Patir Imren
Published: August 2017

NixSy (NiS and Ni17S18) nanoparticles and their nanocomposite with carbon nanotubes (NixSy/CNT) were synthesized by a modified hydrothermal method and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray microanalysis. The synthesized materials were used as hydrogen evolution catalysts at the water/1,2‐dichloroethane interface by using decamethylferrocene as a lipophilic electron donor. The hydrogen evolution reaction in biphasic systems was investigated by two‐phase reactions and by cyclic voltammetry with a four‐electrode system. A kinetic study of the hydrogen production was also performed. The rates of the reactions catalyzed by the NixSy nanoparticles and the NixSy/CNT nanocomposite were found to be about 690‐fold and 2000‐fold higher, respectively, than the rate for the reaction performed in the absence of a catalyst.
Application Of Microwaves and Megasound to Olive Paste in an Industrial Olive Oil Extraction Plant: Impact on Virgin Olive Oil Quality and Composition
Authors: Leone Alessandro , Romaniello Roberto , Tamborrino Antonia , Urbani Stefania , Servili Maurizio , Amarillo Miguel , Grompone Maria A. , Gambaro Adriana , Juliano Pablo
Published: August 2017

Traditional olive oil processing includes batch olive paste kneading for 30–60 min. Microwave (MW) treatment of the olive paste have recently shown to continuously provide faster conditioning, while megasound (MS) treatment have been shown to enhance oil extractability. In the present work the virgin olive oil standard parameters, sensory descriptors, and phenolic and headspace composition upon treatment of oils obtained using novel process enhancement interventions, and their combination in an industrial plant is examined. Standard parameters are within the international specifications. The Control and MW process provide similar phenolic composition but a post MS intervention significantly increased total phenolic content, and decrease total C5 and C6 aldehydes in the MW treated paste. These results encourage further developments for a combined continuous MW and megasonic conditioning technology to fasten the olive oil extraction, to enhance yields, and total phenolic content.

Practical Applications: Microwave and megasounds are two technologies easily implementable on industrial olive oil extraction plant. They permit to simplify the entire plant and could replace totally the malaxers section. This new technology allows having a uniform paste treatment in continuous mode, enhancing the olive oil quality.

Microwaves and megasonics machine are employed to conditioning the olive paste. Chemical analyses on obtained oils, compared to the traditional technology, show that the new technologies allow producing good quality oils. These results encourage further developments for a combined continuous microwave and megasonic conditioning technology to fasten the olive oil extraction, to enhance yields, and total phenolic content.
Carbohydrate‐Derived 3,2‐Enolones in the Base‐Catalyzed Rearrangement to Highly Functionalized C4‐Quaternary 4‐Hydroxy‐2‐cyclopentenones
Authors: Borowski Daniel , Oechsner Regina M. , Jürgens Eva , Ziegler Thomas
Published: August 2017

3,4,6‐O‐benzylated β‐2‐ulosides were subjected to 3,4‐elimination, providing carbohydrate‐derived 3,2‐enolones. Reaction of these enolones under basic conditions in polar aprotic solvents afforded highly functionalized racemic 5‐alkoxy‐2‐benzyloxy‐4‐benzyloxymethyl‐4‐hydroxy‐2‐cyclopentenones. The influence of the nature of the base as well as solvent effects were investigated. The rearrangement products obtained from this reaction exhibit a 4‐hydroxy‐C4‐quaternary stereogenic center. In contrast, the rearrangement of comparable dihydropyran‐3‐ones was reported to furnish the C5‐quaternary 5‐hydroxy‐2‐cyclopentenones. Plausible mechanisms for the described rearrangement and subsequent isomerization processes are given.
What do I gain from joining crowds? Does self‐expansion help to explain the relationship between identity fusion, group efficacy and collective action?
Authors: Besta Tomasz , Jaśkiewicz Michał , Kosakowska‐Berezecka Natasza , Lawendowski Rafał , Zawadzka Anna Maria
Published: August 2017

Four studies were carried out to examine how identity fusion, self‐ and group efficacy, and collective action are related and what role self‐expansion plays in these relationships. In the pilot study, participants recalled their experience of participating in mass gatherings. The three other studies were conducted during mass gatherings organized for collective purposes: a music concert (Study 1), a bicycle activist event (Study 2), and Equality Days (Study 3). The results showed (a) a significant positive relationship between personal and group identity fusion, self‐expansion, and self‐efficacy (Study 1); (b) a significant mediating effect of self‐expansion on the relationship between personal and group identity fusion and group efficacy (Studies 1 and 2); and (c) a significant mediating effect of self‐ expansion and group efficacy on the relationship between identity fusion and collective action tendency (Studies 2 and 3).
Tellurite Carbon Paste Sensors: Microscopic Analysis Provides New Insights on the Nature of the Interaction Between the Ionophore and Analytical Species
Authors: Issa Yousry M. , M. Abdel‐Fattah Hussein , R. Shehab Ola , B. Mohamed Nahla
Published: August 2017

In this work, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used for the characterization of chemically modified carbon paste sensors (CMCPSs), with the aim of understanding their chemical and electrochemical properties. The work also provides a microscopic study on the role of the binder, type of carbon, amount and nature of modifier, composition of the carbon paste and its impact on the electrochemical performance of the sensor. In addition, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) was utilized for the direct observation of the interaction between the chemical modifier and the carbon paste. This has enabled the fabrication of new sensitive and selective chemically modified carbon paste sensors that were successfully applied for the detection of tellurite ions in pure solutions, environmental and biological samples. This work provides new insights on the rational design and integration of carbon paste sensors for a variety of applications.
Recent developments in open tubular capillary electrochromatography from 2016 to 2017
Authors: Tarongoy Faustino M. , Haddad Paul R. , Quirino Joselito P.
Published: August 2017

Interest in open‐tubular capillary electrochromatography (OT‐CEC) continues to thrive because of the inherent advantage of OT‐CEC combining the high efficiency of capillary electrophoresis and the high selectivity of high performance liquid chromatography. For the period 2016 to 2017, novel materials have been developed as first‐time stationary phases for OT‐CEC and are grouped in this review as polymer‐based materials, frameworks, nanoparticles, graphene‐based materials, and biomaterials. Coating and fabrication methods mostly rely on covalent coating strategies while non‐covalent immobilisation strategies like electrostatic assembly are notably still being employed. The concern of overcoming phase ratio challenges in OT‐CEC coatings have also generated adoption of combined coating strategies including multi‐layering, layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly and methods adapted from nanofilm fabrications like epitaxial growth, liquid phase deposition, or nucleation of crystal growth. The emergence of non‐conventional coating characterisation methods such as transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction or X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy is also discussed.
Evaluation of wastewater treatment by ozonation for reducing the toxicity of contaminants of emerging concern to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Maya Nicholas , Evans Jaden , Nasuhoglu Deniz , Isazadeh Siavash , Yargeau Viviane , Metcalfe Chris D.
Published: August 2017

Although conventional wastewater treatment technologies are effective at removing many contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) from municipal wastewater, some contaminants are not removed efficiently. Ozonation may be a treatment option for reducing the concentrations of recalcitrant CECs in wastewater, but this process may generate toxic transformation products. In the present study, we conducted semibatch experiments to ozonate municipal wastewater effluent spiked with 5 commonly detected CECs. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate whether ozonation increased or decreased biological responses indicative of sublethal toxicity in juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with extracts prepared from ozonated and nonozonated wastewater effluent. Blood, liver, and brain tissues were collected from the fish at 72 h post injection for analysis of a battery of biomarkers. In fish i.p. injected with the extracts from nonozonated wastewater effluent, significant induction of plasma vitellogenin (VTG) was observed, but ozonation of the municipal wastewater effluent spiked with CECs significantly reduced this estrogenic response. However, in fish injected with extracts from spiked municipal wastewater effluent after ozonation, the balance of hepatic glutathione in its oxidized (glutathione disulfide [GSSG]) form was altered, indicating oxidative stress. Levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin were significantly elevated in brain tissue from trout injected with the extracts from ozonated spiked municipal wastewater effluent, a biological response that has not been previously reported in fish. Other in vivo biomarkers showed no significant changes across treatments. These results indicate that ozonation reduces the estrogenicity of wastewater, but may increase other sublethal responses. The increase in biomarker responses after ozonation may be because of the formation of biologically active products of transformation of CECs, but further work is needed to confirm this conclusion. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:274–284. © 2017 SETAC
Sex‐biased dispersal of human ancestors
Authors: Sugiyama Yukimaru
Published: August 2017

Some anthropologists and primatologists have argued that, judging by extant chimpanzees and humans, which are female‐biased dispersers, the common ancestors of humans and chimpanzees were also female‐biased dispersers. It has been thought that sex‐biased dispersal patterns have been genetically transmitted for millions of years. However, this character has changed many times with changes in environment and life‐form during human evolution and historical times. I examined life‐form and social organization of nonhuman primates, among them gatherers (foragers), hunter‐gatherers, agriculturalists, industrialists, and modern and extant humans. I conclude that dispersal patterns changed in response to environmental conditions during primate and human evolution.
Projected increase in obesity and non‐alcoholic‐steatohepatitis–related liver transplantation waitlist additions in the United States
Authors: Parikh Neehar D. , Marrero Wesley J. , Wang Jingyuan , Steuer Justin , Tapper Elliot B. , Konerman Monica , Singal Amit G. , Hutton David W. , Byon Eunshin , Lavieri Mariel S.
Published: August 2017

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) cirrhosis is the fastest growing indication for liver transplantation (LT) in the United States. We aimed to determine the temporal trend behind the rise in obesity and NASH‐related additions to the LT waitlist in the United States and make projections for future NASH burden on the LT waitlist. We used data from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network database from 2000 to 2014 to obtain the number of NASH‐related LT waitlist additions. The obese population in the United States from 2000 to 2014 was estimated using data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Based on obesity trends, we established a time lag between obesity prevalence and NASH‐related waitlist additions. We used data from the U.S. Census Bureau on population projections from 2016 to 2030 to forecast obesity estimates and NASH‐related LT waitlist additions. From 2000 to 2014, the proportion of obese individuals significantly increased 44.9% and the number of NASH‐related annual waitlist additions increased from 391 to 1,605. Increase in obesity prevalence was strongly associated with LT waitlist additions 9 years later in derivation and validation cohorts (R2 = 0.9). Based on these data, annual NASH‐related waitlist additions are anticipated to increase by 55.4% (1,354‐2,104) between 2016 and 2030. There is significant regional variation in obesity rates and in the anticipated increase in NASH‐related waitlist additions (P < 0.01). Conclusion: We project a marked increase in demand for LT for NASH given population obesity trends. Continued public health efforts to curb obesity prevalence are needed to reduce the projected future burden of NASH. (Hepatology 2017).
A randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of cenicriviroc for treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with fibrosis
Authors: Friedman Scott L. , Ratziu Vlad , Harrison Stephen A. , Abdelmalek Manal F. , Aithal Guruprasad P. , Caballeria Juan , Francque Sven , Farrell Geoffrey , Kowdley Kris V. , Craxi Antonio , Simon Krzysztof , Fischer Laurent , Melchor‐Khan Liza , Vest Jeffrey , Wiens Brian L. , Vig Pamela , Seyedkazemi Star , Goodman Zachary , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun , Loomba Rohit , Tacke Frank , Sanyal Arun , Lefebvre Eric
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate cenicriviroc (CVC), a dual antagonist of CC chemokine receptor types 2 and 5, for treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with liver fibrosis (LF). A randomized, double‐blind, multinational phase 2b study enrolled subjects with NASH, a nonalcoholic fatty liver disease activity score (NAS) ≥4, and LF (stages 1‐3, NASH Clinical Research Network) at 81 clinical sites. Subjects (N = 289) were randomly assigned CVC 150 mg or placebo. Primary outcome was ≥2‐point improvement in NAS and no worsening of fibrosis at year 1. Key secondary outcomes were: resolution of steatohepatitis (SH) and no worsening of fibrosis; improvement in fibrosis by ≥1 stage and no worsening of SH. Biomarkers of inflammation and adverse events were assessed. Full study recruitment was achieved. The primary endpoint of NAS improvement in the intent‐to‐treat population and resolution of SH was achieved in a similar proportion of subjects on CVC (N = 145) and placebo (N = 144; 16% vs. 19%, P = 0.52 and 8% vs. 6%, P = 0.49, respectively). However, the fibrosis endpoint was met in significantly more subjects on CVC than placebo (20% vs. 10%; P = 0.02). Treatment benefits were greater in those with higher disease activity and fibrosis stage at baseline. Biomarkers of systemic inflammation were reduced with CVC. Safety and tolerability of CVC were comparable to placebo. Conclusion: After 1 year of CVC treatment, twice as many subjects achieved improvement in fibrosis and no worsening of SH compared with placebo. Given the urgent need to develop antifibrotic therapies in NASH, these findings warrant phase 3 evaluation. (Hepatology 2018;67:1754‐1767).
Permissible emission limit estimation via iterative back-calculation: Case of Assaluyeh energy zone, southern Iran
Authors: Khajehpour Hossein , Saboohi Yadollah , Tsatsaronis George
Published: August 2017

In the present research work, an environmental policy procedure for setting a cap on emissions, as a crucial step in any total emission control system, has been provided and evaluated. It is shown that general regulations on emission intensities and rates do not guarantee that ambient air quality standards are met in intense industrial zones. Local emission limits are necessary to meet ambient air quality standards in these zones. To that end, we used dispersion simulators to back-calculate pollutant concentration thresholds for a large and intense energy system in the Assaluyeh region of southern Iran. Verified modeling results indicate 218 d of pollutant concentration threshold exceedance in Assaluyeh in a simulated year. Back-calculation to assess the total permissible emission level indicates the need for 68% reduction in total emission to meet ambient air quality standards. We then used the model to help identify effective control strategies, including emission reductions and appropriate timing of specific operations. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2018;14:130–138. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points

Environmental guidelines on emission intensities and emission rates are not guarantors of local ambient air quality standards in intense industrial zones; hence, local regulations based on environmental impact assessment tools are required. In the presence of a variety of factors affecting concentrations (e.g., numerous sources, complex topography, variability of meteorological conditions and background concentrations, and the structure of standards), the use of analytical models is vital for estimation of permissible emission limit. A procedure for gradual back-calculation of air quality health criteria is examined in a highly polluted energy zone in Iran, which has become a serious concern for national policy makers. The findings show the need for 68% reduction in emissions to achieve national ambient air quality standards. Due to the presence of background dust during the simulated year, even with no industrial activity, the international air quality guidelines (i.e.,World Health Organization) may not be attained.
Risk of second primary cancers in women diagnosed with endometrial cancer in German and Swedish cancer registries
Authors: Chen Tianhui , Brenner Hermann , Fallah Mahdi , Jansen Lina , Castro Felipe A. , Geiss Karla , Holleczek Bernd , Katalinic Alexander , Luttmann Sabine , Sundquist Kristina , Ressing Meike , Xu Leiting , Hemminki Kari ,   GEKID Cancer Survival Working Group+
Published: August 2017

Along with the increasing incidence and favorable prognosis, more women diagnosed with endometrial cancer may develop second primary cancers (SPCs). We aimed at investigating risk of SPCs after endometrial cancer in Germany and Sweden to provide insight into prevention strategies for SPCs. Endometrial cancer patients diagnosed at age ≥15 years in Germany during 1997–2011 and in Sweden nationwide during 1997–2012 were selected. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs), calculated as the ratio of observed to expected numbers of cases, were used to assess the risk of a specific second cancer after endometrial cancer for both German and Swedish datasets. Among 46,929 endometrial cancer survivors in Germany and 18,646 in Sweden, overall 2,897 and 1,706 SPCs were recorded, respectively. Significantly elevated SIRs were observed in Germany for ovarian (SIR = 1.3; 95%CI:1.1–1.5) and kidney cancers [1.6 (1.3–1.8)], while in Sweden the SIRs were 5.4 (4.6–6.3) and1.4 (1.0–1.9), respectively. Elevated risk for second ovarian endometrioid carcinoma was pronounced after early (<55 years) onset endometrial cancer in Germany [9.0 (4.8–15)] and Sweden [7.7 (5.1–11)]. In Germany elevated risks were found for second ovarian endometrioid carcinoma after endometrioid histology of first endometrial cancer [6.3 (4.0–9.4)] and for second kidney cancer after clear cell histology of endometrial cancer [4.9 (1.6–11)]. We found exceptionally elevated risk of second ovarian endometrioid carcinoma after endometrial cancer of the same histology or of early onset. Risk for second kidney cancer was also increased, particularly after endometrial cancer of clear cell histology. Cancer prevention strategies should focus on these cancers after endometrial cancer diagnosis.
"Histological characteristics of HPV‐associated and ‐independent squamous cell carcinomas of the vulva: A study of 1,594 cases”
Authors: Rakislova Natalia , Clavero Omar , Alemany Laia , Saco Adela , Quirós Beatriz , Lloveras Belen , Alejo Maria , Pawlita Michael , Quint Wim , del Pino Marta , de Sanjose Silvia , Ordi Jaume ,   on behalf of VVAP study group
Published: August 2017

There are at least two different etio‐pathogenic pathways for the development of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC): one associated with infection by human papillomavirus (HPV) and another independent of HPV. We aimed to describe the histological characteristics of HPV‐associated and ‐independent tumors and to determine the best strategy to identify HPV in VSCC. A single paraffin block was available for review from a series of 1,594 VSCCs. In all cases HPV DNA detection was analyzed using the SPF10PCR/DEIA/LiPA25 system and p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC). A tumor was considered as unquestionably HPV‐associated if both HPV DNA and p16 IHC were positive. A tumor was considered indisputably HPV‐independent if both HPV DNA and p16 IHC were negative. Two groups of tumors were classified as non‐conclusive: (1) HPV DNA+/p16− and (2) HPV DNA−/p16+. WHO typing and a thorough histological evaluation were conducted in all cases. Four hundred and forty‐one tumors were HPV DNA+ with 367 cases (23.0%) being HPV DNA+/p16+. The latter tumors were more frequently basaloid or warty (49.8%), but 36.5% were of the keratinizing type; 1,153 tumors were HPV DNA−, with 1,060 cases (66.5%) being HPV DNA−/p16−. These HPV DNA−/p16− tumors were mostly keratinizing (81.2%) but were occasionally basaloid or warty (5.2%). The features of HPV DNA−/p16+ cases (n = 93) were similar to those of the HPV‐associated VSCC, and HPV DNA+/p16− (n = 74) cases had a more diverse profile, although they were more similar to HPV‐independent tumors. Several histological characteristics were more frequently associated with HPV‐related VSCC (koilocytotic‐like change, necrosis, moderate to marked pleomorphism, invasive front in nests; p < 0.001), however, none of these characteristics allowed differentiation between HPV‐associated and ‐independent VSCC. In conclusion, histological criteria do not allow differentiation between HPV‐associated and ‐independent VSCC. p16 Alone is a clinically easy strategy to determine HPV status in VSCC.
Use of first‐trimester placenta growth factor concentration to predict hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in a low‐risk Asian population
Authors: Kumar Manisha , Sharma Karuna , Singh Shalini , Singh Ritu , Singh Abha , Bhattacharjee Jayashree
Published: August 2017

Objective

To determine the value of placenta growth factor (PlGF) for predicting hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) in a low‐risk population when used either alone or in combination with other markers.

Methods

A prospective observational cohort study was conducted among women with singleton pregnancy in the first trimester in New Delhi, India, between October 1, 2013, and September 30, 2016. First‐trimester measures included maternal history, body mass index (BMI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), Doppler uterine artery pulsatility index, and serum levels of biomarkers (including PlGF).

Results

Among 1725 women, 208 (12.1%) developed HDP; 74 (35.6%) of these cases were early onset. Mean PlGF levels were significantly lower among cases than among controls (30.42 ± 10.22 vs 37.31 ± 13.28 pg/mL; P<0.001). As a biomarker for prediction of HDP, PlGF fared better than pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A (PAPP‐A): area under the curve 0.685 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.620–0.750; P<0.001) versus 0.659 (95% CI 0.593–0.726; P<0.001). The highest odds ratio was found for MAP (8.369, 95% CI 5.752–12.215). The combination of PlGF, PAPP‐A, BMI, MAP, and Doppler uterine artery pulsatility index provided an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.876 (95% CI 0.833–0.919; P<0.001).

Conclusion

Combining PlGF concentration with biochemical and biophysical markers provided a good screening test for HDP during the first trimester.
Short-Term Teriparatide and Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 for Regenerative Approach to Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Jung Junho , Yoo Hee-Young , Kim Gyu-Tae , Lee Jung-Woo , Lee Yeon-Ah , Kim Deog-Yoon , Kwon Yong-Dae
Published: August 2017

Our objective was to examine whether adjunct teriparatide administration and local application of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is beneficial for the regeneration of jaw bone in patients with medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). This study enrolled 17 patients diagnosed with MRONJ. All patients received sequestrectomy under general or local anesthesia with suspension of bisphosphonate. The bone regeneration ratio was compared on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, acquired immediately post-operation and after 6 months. The patients were divided into groups, based on their treatment regimens: teriparatide combined with rhBMP-2 (parathyroid hormone [PTH]+BMP), rhBMP-2 (BMP), and the control. Biochemical markers were also evaluated at the baseline (T0), 1 month (T1), and 3 months (T2) after surgery. Significant increase was observed in the values of the biochemical markers, serum osteocalcin, and serum C-terminal telopeptide cross-link of type I collagen, within 3 months of surgery in the PTH+BMP group, whereas the mean value in the BMP group did not show a significant change. In all groups, the MRONJ lesions were healed and new bone formation was detected in the CBCT images. The regeneration ratio was significantly greater in the group PTH+BMP than in the BMP and control groups. Significantly greater amount of bone formation was observed in the group PTH+BMP than in the BMP and control groups. Local application of rhBMP-2 alone also had a beneficial effect on bone regeneration but was not more significant than control. Based on these findings, administration of short-term teriparatide with rhBMP-2 in MRONJ patients may maximize the regeneration of bone after surgery. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
MAPK8 regulates chicken male germ cell differentiation through JNK signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Yingjie , Bi Yulin , Zuo Qisheng , Zhang Wenhui , Li Dong , He Na‐na , Cheng Shaoze , Zhang Ya‐ni , Li Bichun
Published: August 2017

The study aims to analyze the key signaling pathways in regulating the process of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) differentiation into spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). We explored the specific regulating mechanisms of C‐Jun amino‐terminal kinase (JNK) signaling in this process. Interference/overexpression of MAPK8 allows the JNK signaling pathway to be blocked/activated. In Retinoic acid (RA) induced in vitro differentiation assays, the expression of germ cell marker genes, cvh, c‐kit, integrin α6 and integrin β1, was observed to upregulate while activating JNK signaling significantly. Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACs) analysis showed that the proportion of cvh+ and integrin α6+cells in the overexpression group was significantly higher than which in the RA + shRNA‐MAPK8 group. In in vivo situations, shRNA‐MAPK8 could stably express in chicken embryos and significantly down‐regulate expression of MAPK8 and downstream genes in JNK signaling pathway. With PAS stain, we found that PGCs (primordial germ cells) was significantly decreased after inhibiting MAPK8. With real‐time quantitative PCR (qRT‐PCR) and Western Blot, we identified that reproductive related genes expression was significantly suppressed after inhibiting MAPK8 in vivo. We preliminarily concluded that knockdown/ overexpression of MAPK8 could affect differentiation of ESC by inhibiting/activating JNK signal.
Differential expression profile analysis of lncRNA UCA1α regulated mRNAs in bladder cancer
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhang Hong , Li Xu , Chen Wei
Published: August 2017

Urothelial carcinoma associated 1α (UCA1α) is a novel long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) that regulates bladder cancer proliferation, migration, and invasion. The target genes of UCA1α have, however, not been identified. To address this, a pCDNA3.1(+)‐UCA1α over‐expression vector was transfected into UM‐UC‐2 bladder cancer cells. Genes differentially expressed between pCDNA3.1(+)‐UCA1α and pCDNA3.1(+) transfected cell were then detected by microarray and bioinformatics analysis. A total of 71 differentially expressed genes were identified, including 52 up‐regulated genes and 19 down‐regulated genes. As expected, the lncRNA UCA1α expression level was significantly increased when compared to that of pCDNA3.1(+) transfected cells. The five most significantly up‐regulated and five most significantly down‐regulated genes were selected, and their expression levels were also assessed by real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. The mRNA and protein expression levels of FOXI3 and GSTA3 were found to be significantly increased, and those of MED18 and TEX101 were found to be significantly decreased. Gene ontology (GO) clustering identified several significant biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions, associated with lncRNA UCA1α over‐expression. The differentially expressed genes were involved in several significant pathways as shown by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway clustering. Cell proliferation activity was significantly increased following overexpression of lncRNA UCA1α increasing over culture time. The present study identifies, for the first time, potential target genes for lncRNA UCA1α in bladder cancer, and provides a significant reference for studying the role of lncRNA UCA1α in bladder cancer.
Micro‐vesicles derived from human Wharton's Jelly mesenchymal stromal cells mitigate renal ischemia‐reperfusion injury in rats after cardiac death renal transplantation
Authors: Wu Xiaoqiang , Yan Tianzhong , Wang Zhiwei , Wu Xuan , Cao Guanghui , Zhang Chan , Tian Xiangyong , Wang Junpeng
Published: August 2017

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the possible therapeutic effects of the human Wharton‐Jelly mesenchymal stromal cells derived micro‐vesicles (hWJMSCs‐MVs) on renal ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) after cardiac death (CD) renal transplantation in rats. MVs were injected intravenously in rats immediately after renal transplantation. The animals were sacrificed at 24 h, 48 h, 1 and 2 weeks post‐transplantation. ELISA was used to determine the von Willebrand Factor (vWF), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and interleukin (IL)‐10 levels in the serum. Tubular cell proliferation and apoptosis were identified by Ki67 immunostaining and TUNEL assay. Renal fibrosis was assessed by Masson's tri‐chrome straining and alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) staining. The infiltration of inflammatory cells was detected by CD68+ staining. The transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and α‐SMA expression in the kidney was measured by Western blot. After renal transplantation, the rats treated with hWJMSCs‐MVs improved survival rate and renal function. Moreover, MVs mitigated renal cell apoptosis, enhanced proliferation, and alleviated inflammation at the first 48 h. In the late period, abrogation of renal fibrosis was observed in the MVs group. MVs also could decrease the number of CD68+ macrophages in the kidney. Furthermore, MVs decreased the protein expression levels of α‐SMA and TGF‐β1 and increased the protein expression level of HGF at any point (24 h, 48 h, 1 or 2 weeks). The administration of MVs immediately after renal transplantation could ameliorate IRI in both the acute and chronic stage.
Cytokine profiling of MCF‐7 cell line 2D, progressive 3D, and 3D revert cultures
Authors: Subramaniyan Aishwarya , Maddaly Ravi
Published: August 2017

Cancer cytokines are known to mediate several complex cancer cell physiologies. Also, cancer cells themselves are known to secrete cytokines whose expressions and net inducible results are controlled by a variety of factors. We profiled a few cytokines secreted by 2D, 3D aggregates, and the 3DRs of MCF‐7 cell line at various time points. Several cytokines were seen more expressed by 3D cultures on the 4th day and IL‐10 peaked on the day 1 of 3D cultures while TNF‐α level peaked on the 7th day. α‐Defensin, SDF‐7, and TGF‐β also showed markedly higher levels. There was a reduced expression of IL‐6 and IL‐17 by the 3DRs. TGF‐β did not show much change among the 2D, progressive 3D, and 3DR cultures. Utilizing 3DRs as study material will be a significant extension of the ways cells lines can be used for research.
Retracted: Correlation of the expressions of IGF1R‐RACK1‐STAT3 and Bcl‐xl in nasopharyngeal carcinoma with the clinicopathological features and prognosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Wang Shan , Shen Min , Wen Xin , Han Xin‐Rui , Wang Yong‐Jian , Fan Shao‐Hua , Zhuang Juan , Zhang Zi‐Feng , Shan Qun , Li Meng‐Qiu , Hu Bin , Sun Chun‐Hui , Ge Xia , Lei Qiu‐Mei , Wu Dong‐Mei , Lu Jun , Zheng Yuan‐Lin
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation of expression of IGF1R‐RACK1‐STAT3 and Bcl‐xl in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) with the clinicopathological features and the prognosis of NPC. Our study selected 215 NPC tissues and 178 chronic nasopharyngitis tissues (control group). Positive expression rates of IGF1R, RACK1, STAT3, and Bcl‐xl were tested by immunohistochemical method, and expression of IGF1R, RACK1, STAT3, Bcl‐xl, Bcl‐2, and Bax by western blotting. Correlation of IGF1R, RACK1, STAT3, and Bcl‐xl with the clinicopathological features of NPC was analyzed. The correlation among those four expression was analyzed by Spearman. The survival of NPC and independent factors of prognosis were tested by Kaplan‐Meier and COX proportional hazards model respectively. The NPC group had higher positive expression rates of IGF1R, RACK1, STAT3, and Bcl‐xl, and elevated expression of IGF1R, RACK1, STAT3, Bcl‐xl, Bcl‐2, and Bax. The lymph node metastasis (LNM) group had higher positive expression rates of IGF1R and RACK1 when compared with the non‐LNM group. Patients with stage III and IV had higher positive expression rates of IGF1R, RACK1, STAT3, and Bcl‐xl. There was positive correlation between expression of IGF1R and RACK1, STAT3. Such correlation was found between RACK1 and STAT3. Patients with negative expression of IGF1R, RACK1, STAT3, and Bcl‐xl had higher survival rates. The risky factors of poor prognosis of NPC were positive expression of IGF1R, RACK1, STAT3 and Bcl‐xl, and LNM. IGF1R‐RACK1‐STAT3 and Bcl‐xl expression correlated with the clinicopathological features and poor prognosis of NPC.