bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oscillatory EEG signatures of postponed somatosensory decisions
Authors: Ludwig Simon , Herding Jan , Blankenburg Felix
Published: May 2018

In recent electroencephalography (EEG) studies, the vibrotactile frequency comparison task has been used to study oscillatory signatures of perceptual decision making in humans, revealing a choice‐selective modulation of premotor upper beta band power shortly before decisions were reported. Importantly, these studies focused on decisions that were (1) indicated immediately after stimulus presentation, and (2) for which a direct motor mapping was provided. Here, we investigated whether the putative beta band choice signal also extends to postponed decisions, and how such a decision signal might be influenced by a response mapping that is dissociated from a specific motor command. We recorded EEG data in two separate experiments, both employing the vibrotactile frequency comparison task with delayed decision reports. In the first experiment, delayed choices were associated with a fixed motor mapping, whereas in the second experiment, choices were mapped onto a color code concealing a specific motor response until the end of the delay phase. In between stimulus presentations, as well as after the second stimulus, prefrontal beta band power indexed stimulus information held in working memory. Beta band power also encoded choices during the response delay, notably, in different cortical areas depending on the provided response mapping. In particular, when decisions were associated with a specific motor mapping, choices were represented in premotor cortices, whereas the color mapping resulted in a choice‐selective modulation of beta band power in parietal cortices. Together, our findings imply that how a choice is expressed (i.e., the decision consequence) determines where in the cortical sensorimotor hierarchy an according decision signal is processed.
Numerical simulation of steam–water two‐phase flow under dynamic load
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Song Baoyin , Yao Qiuping , Cao Xi
Published: May 2018

A separated‐phase physical model for steam–water two‐phase flow on a rotating platform was developed. The mesh generation for a horizontal pipe was conducted, and the finite volume method was used to discretize the equations. Equations were solved with the SIMPLE algorithm after setting the initial and boundary conditions. Predicted results were compared with experimental data, and they agreed well with each other. The results showed that the fluid outlet pressure and pressure drop in the test section increased with increasing dynamic load. However, the effective heat transferred to the fluid decreased with the increase of dynamic load. The developed model can be used to simulate the gas–liquid two‐phase flow under different gravity or rotary conditions.
Prospective metabolomics study identifies potential novel blood metabolites associated with pancreatic cancer risk
Authors: Shu Xiang , Zheng Wei , Yu Danxia , Li Hong‐Lan , Lan Qing , Yang Gong , Cai Hui , Ma Xiao , Rothman Nathaniel , Gao Yu‐Tang , Jia Wei , Xiang Yong‐Bing , Shu Xiao‐Ou
Published: May 2018

Using a metabolomics approach, we systematically searched for circulating metabolite biomarkers for pancreatic cancer risk in a case‐control study nested within two prospective Shanghai cohorts. Included in our study were 226 incident pancreatic cancer cases and their individually‐matched controls. Untargeted mass spectrometry platforms were used to measure metabolites in blood samples collected prior to cancer diagnosis. Conditional logistic regression was performed to assess the associations of metabolites with pancreatic cancer risk. We identified 10 metabolites associated with pancreatic cancer, after accounting for multiple comparisons (the Benjamini‐Hochberg false discovery rate <0.05). The majority of the identified metabolites were glycerophospholipids (ORs per SD increase: 0.44–2.32; p values: 7.2 × 10−4 to 1.0 × 10−6), six of which were associated with decreased risk and one with increased risk. Additionally, levels of coumarin (OR = 1.96, p = 3.7 × 10−6) and picolinic acid (OR = 2.53, p = 5.0 × 10−5) were positively associated with pancreatic cancer risk, while tetracosanoic acid was inversely associated with risk (OR = 0.48, p = 7.16 × 10−7). Four metabolites remained statistically significant after mutual adjustment. Our study provides novel evidence that the dysregulation of glycerophospholipids may play an important role in pancreatic cancer development.
Mathematical Analysis of Chemical Reaction Systems
Authors: Yu Polly Y. , Craciun Gheorghe
Published: May 2018

The use of mathematical methods for the analysis of chemical reaction systems has a very long history, and involves many types of models: deterministic versus stochastic, continuous versus discrete, and homogeneous versus spatially distributed. Here we focus on mathematical models based on deterministic mass‐action kinetics. These models are systems of coupled nonlinear differential equations on the positive orthant. We explain how mathematical properties of the solutions of mass‐action systems are strongly related to key properties of the networks of chemical reactions that generate them, such as specific versions of reversibility and feedback interactions.
β‐lactam resistance: The role of low molecular weight penicillin binding proteins, β‐lactamases and ld‐transpeptidases in bacteria associated with respiratory tract infections
Authors: Ealand Christopher S. , Machowski Edith E. , Kana Bavesh D.
Published: May 2018

Disruption of peptidoglycan (PG) biosynthesis in the bacterial cell wall by β‐lactam antibiotics has transformed therapeutic options for bacterial infections. These antibiotics target the transpeptidase domains in penicillin binding proteins (PBPs), which can be classified into high and low molecular weight (LMW) counterparts. While the essentiality of the former has been extensively demonstrated, the physiological roles of LMW PBPs remain poorly understood. Herein, we review the function of LMW PBPs, β‐lactamases and ld‐transpeptidases (Ldts) in pathogens associated with respiratory tract infections. More specifically, we explore their roles in mediating β‐lactam resistance. Using a comparative genomics approach, we identified a high degree of genetic redundancy for LMW PBPs which retain the motifs, SxxN, SxN and KTG required for catalytic activity. Differences in domain architecture suggest distinct physiological roles, possibly related to bacterial cell cycle and/or adaptation to various environmental conditions. Many of the LMW PBPs play an important role in β‐lactam resistance either through mutation or variation in abundance. In all of the bacterial genomes assessed, at least one β‐lactamase homologue is present, suggesting that enzymatic degradation of β‐lactams is a highly conserved resistance mechanism. Furthermore, the presence of Ldt homologues in the majority of species surveyed suggests that alternative PG crosslinking may further mediate β‐lactam drug resistance. A deeper understanding of the interplay between these different mechanisms of β‐lactam resistance will provide a framework for new therapeutics, which are urgently required given the rapid emergence of antimicrobial resistance. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(9):855–868, 2018
What are the macroeconomic effects of high‐frequency uncertainty shocks?
Authors: Ferrara Laurent , Guérin Pierre
Published: May 2018

This paper evaluates the effects of high‐frequency uncertainty shocks on a set of low‐frequency macroeconomic variables representative of the US economy. Rather than estimating models at the same common low frequency, we use recently developed econometric models, which allow us to deal with data of different sampling frequencies. We find that credit and labor market variables react the most to uncertainty shocks in that they exhibit a prolonged negative response to such shocks. When looking at detailed investment subcategories, our estimates suggest that the most irreversible investment projects are the most affected by uncertainty shocks. We also find that the responses of macroeconomic variables to uncertainty shocks are relatively similar across single‐frequency and mixed‐frequency data models, suggesting that the temporal aggregation bias is not acute in this context.
A multilayer scaffold design with spatial arrangement of cells to modulate esophageal tissue growth
Authors: Soliman Sherif , Laurent Julie , Kalenjian Lena , Burnette Kalia , Hedberg Bert , La Francesca Saverio
Published: May 2018

Esophageal diseases may require resectioning of the damaged portion. The current standard of care requires the replacement of the esophagus with the stomach or the intestine. Such procedures have high rates of mortality and morbidity; therefore, the use of alternative conduits is needed. A tissue engineering approach that allows for the regeneration of esophageal tissues would have significant clinical application. A cell‐seeded synthetic scaffold could replace the resected part of the esophagus and elicit tissue regrowth. In order to ideally recreate a functioning esophagus, its two crucial tissue layers should be induced: an epithelium on the luminal surface and a muscle layer on the exterior surface. To create a bioengineered esophagus with both tissue layers, a multilayer (ML) tubular scaffold design was considered. Luminal and exterior layers were electrospun with broad pore size to promote penetration and proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells on the lumen and smooth muscle cells on the external. These two layers would be separated by a thin layer with substantially narrower pore size intended to act as a barrier for the two cell types. This ML scaffold design was achieved via electrospinning by tuning the solution and the process parameters. Analysis of the scaffold demonstrated that this tuning enabled the production of three integrated layers with distinguishable microstructures and good mechanical integrity. In vitro validation was conducted on the separated unilayer components of the ML scaffold. The resultant proof‐of‐concept ML scaffold design could possibly support the spatial arrangement of cells needed to promote esophageal tissue regeneration. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 107B: 324–331, 2019.
Evaluation of the toxicity effects of silk fibroin on human lymphocytes and monocytes
Authors: Naserzadeh Parvaneh , Mortazavi Seyed Alireza , Ashtari Khadijeh , Salimi Ahmad , Farokhi Mehdi , Pourahmad Jalal
Published: May 2018

Silk fibroin nanoparticles (SFNPs) as a natural polymer have been utilized in biomedical applications such as suture, tissue engineering‐based scaffolds, and drug delivery carriers. Since there is little data regarding the toxicity effects on different cells and tissues, we aimed to determine the toxicity mechanisms of SFNPs on human lymphocytes and monocytes based on reliable methods. Our results showed that SFNPs (0.5, 1, and 2 mg/mL) induced oxidative stress via increasing reactive oxygen species production, mitochondrial membrane potential (∆Ψ) collapse, which was correlated to cytochrome c release and Adenosine diphosphate (ADP)/Adenosine tri phosphate (ATP) ratio increase as well as lysosomal as another toxicity mechanism, which led to cytosolic release of lysosomal digestive proteases, phosphor lipases, and apoptosis signaling. Taken together, these data suggested that SFNPs toxicity was associated with mutual mitochondrial/lysosomal cross‐talk and oxidative stress on human lymphocytes and monocytes with activated apoptosis signaling.
Apolipoprotein C1 promotes prostate cancer cell proliferation in vitro
Authors: Su Wei‐peng , Sun Li‐na , Yang Shun‐liang , Zhao Hu , Zeng Teng‐yue , Wu Wei‐zhen , Wang Dong
Published: May 2018

Here, we aimed to investigate the carcinogenic effects of apolipoprotein C1 (APOC1) in prostate cancer (PCa). APOC1 expression was evaluated in PCa and normal prostate specimens, and lentivirus‐mediated RNA interference was used to knockdown APOC1 in DU145 cells. The effects of APOC1 silencing on cell proliferation, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis were assessed. APOC1 expression was much higher in PCa tissues than in normal tissues. Moreover, APOC1 silencing inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation, arrested cell cycle progression, and enhanced apoptosis in DU145 cells. Additionally, APOC1 silencing decreased survivin, phospho‐Rb, and p21 levels and increased cleaved caspase‐3 expression. These data supported the procarcinogenic effects of APOC1 in the pathogenesis of PCa and suggested that targeting APOC1 may have applications in the treatment of PCa.
Hypermethylation of IL‐10 gene is responsible for its low mRNA expression in Behçet's disease
Authors: Alipour Shahriar , Nouri Mohammad , Khabbazi Alireza , Samadi Nasser , Babaloo Zohreh , Abolhasani Somayeh , Farhadi Jafar , Roshanravan Neda , Jadideslam Golamreza , Sakhinia Ebrahim
Published: May 2018

Interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), produced generally by monocyte, T helper type 2 (Th2), and regulatory T cells (Treg), plays a central role in controlling inflammatory responses and regulating the immune response of the IL‐10 mRNA expression. It is significantly down‐regulated in many autoimmune diseases such as Behçet's disease; this is mostly associated with more aggressive complications. Nevertheless, the essential molecular process for its low expression has not been completely realized. The aim of this project was attempted to estimate the gene expression, promoter methylation, and protein levels to IL‐10's down‐regulated expression. In this study, blood samples from 51 (4 missed) patients and 63 (2 missed) healthy controls were taken, with the mononuclear cells isolated by the Ficoll Protocol. DNA and RNA were then subsequently extracted. Promoter methylation levels were evaluated by MeDIP‐qPCR. Following this, the extracted RNA was converted to cDNA using the RT‐PCR method, with the expression of IL‐10 later evaluated by Real‐time PCR. And then, serum levels of IL‐10 were measured using ELISA method. As we expected, the expression level of the IL‐10 gene was seen to significantly decline in the patient group in comparison to the control. Also, the rate of promoter methylation was significantly higher in the IL‐10 mRNA low expression group (patient group) compared to its high expression group (healthy group) (P < 0.001). We revealed that hypermethylation of promoter region was the principal defect for the IL‐10 mRNA low expression in patients with Behçet's disease.
Early endplate remodeling and skeletal muscle signaling events following rat hindlimb suspension
Authors: Chibalin Alexander V. , Benziane Boubacar , Zakyrjanova Guzalija F. , Kravtsova Violetta V. , Krivoi Igor I.
Published: May 2018

Motor endplates naturally undergo continual morphological changes that are altered in response to changes in neuromuscular activity. This study examines the consequences of acute (6–12 hr) disuse following hindlimb suspension on rat soleus muscle endplate structural stability. We identify early changes in several key signaling events including markers of protein kinase activation, AMPK phosphorylation and autophagy markers which may play a role in endplate remodeling. Acute disuse does not change endplate fragmentation, however, it decreases both the individual fragments and the total endplate area. This decrease was accompanied by an increase in the mean fluorescence intensity from the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors which compensate the endplate area loss. Muscle disuse decreased phosphorylation of AMPK and its substrate ACC, and stimulated mTOR controlled protein synthesis pathway and stimulated autophagy. Our findings provide evidence that changes in endplate stability are accompanied by reduced AMPK phosphorylation and an increase in autophagy markers, and these changes are evident within hours of onset of skeletal muscle disuse.
Usefulness of simultaneous screening for HIV‐specific and HCV‐specific antibodies and HBsAg by a capillary‐based multiplex rapid diagnostic test to strengthen linkage‐to‐care in sub‐Saharan patients attending sexually transmitted infection clinic
Authors: Longo Jean De Dieu , Mboumba Bouassa Ralph‐Sydney , Mbeko Simaleko Marcel , Kouabosso André , Mossoro‐Kpinde Christian Diamant , Robin Leman , Charmant Laura , Grésenguet Gérard , Bélec Laurent
Published: May 2018

Adult outpatients attending the main sexually transmitted infection clinic of Bangui, Central African Republic, were prospectively subjected to a multiplex rapid diagnostic test for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV). In group I (n = 208) of patients already followed for HIV, 6 (2.9%) were unexpectedly negative, thus corresponding to false positive for HIV by the national HIV algorithm; hepatitis B surface antigen and HCV positivities were high (18.7% and 4.3%, respectively). In group II (n = 71) of patients with unknown HIV status, at least 1 chronic viral disease was diagnosed in 26 (36.6%) patients, including 5 (7.1%) HIV, 17 (23.9%) HBV, and 3 (4.2%) HCV infections.
Roles of the genomic sequence surrounding the stem‐loop structure in the junction region including the 3′ terminus of open reading frame 1 in hepatitis E virus replication
Authors: Cao Dianjun , Ni Yan‐Yan , Walker Michelle , Huang Yao‐Wei , Meng Xiang‐Jin
Published: May 2018

Hepatitis E virus (HEV), a member of the family Hepeviridae, causes both acute and chronic viral hepatitis. We have previously demonstrated that the stem‐loop structure in the junction region (JR) of HEV genome plays a critical role in HEV replication. However, the function of the sequence bordering the JR, including the 3′ terminus of open reading frame (ORF1), in HEV replication is unknown. In this study, a panel of HEV Renilla luciferase (Rluc) replicons containing various deletions at 5′ or 3′ termini of the JR was constructed to determine the effect of the deletions on HEV replication in Huh7 human liver cells. We showed that even a single nucleotide deletion at the 5′ terminus of the JR abolished HEV replication, whereas deletions at the 3′ terminus of the JR also decreased virus replication efficiency. Furthermore, we also constructed firefly luciferase and Rluc dual‐reporter HEV replicons containing the 3′ terminal ORF1 of various lengths and the JR inserted upstream of the Rluc reporter. A higher level of HEV replication was observed in cells transfected with replicons containing the 3′ terminal ORF1 than that of the JR only replicon. We also showed that the ORF3 noncoding sequence along with the JR promoted a higher level of translation activity than that promoted by JR and the ORF2 noncoding sequence.
Globular Glial Tauopathy May be Mistaken for Corticobasal Syndrome—Pointers for the Clinician
Authors: Marsili Luca , Dickson Dennis W. , Espay Alberto J.
Published: May 2018

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Lymphovenous anastomosis and debulking procedure for treatment of combined severe lower extremity and genital lymphedema: A case report
Authors: Scaglioni Mario F. , Uyulmaz Semra
Published: May 2018

Lymphedema most commonly occurs after cancer treatment and can affect limbs and genitalia. Genital lymphedema (GL) is a rare condition and can be disabling psychologically and physically. It often occurs along with lower extremity lymphedema (LEL). Conservative and physiologic reconstructive surgery such as lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) offer good treatment options for LEL. GL however remains a reconstructive dilemma. The most effective surgical therapies in advanced GL are still debulking procedures in properly selected patients. Here, we present the surgical treatment of a 51 ‐year‐old male patient with advanced and combined genital and right lower extremity lymphedema after Hodgkin lymphom treatment in the childhood. We performed multiple LVA to the right ankle joint, distal lower leg and lateral knee and 2 months later patient reported a significant decrease of pain and pressure in affected limb while the scrotal and penis lymphedema did not show any signs of improvement at all. Four months later, 4.9 kg of excessive lymphedematous tissue from the genital area was resected and covered by split‐thickness skin grafts from the unaffected left upper thigh. The postoperative course was uneventful and 3 weeks postoperatively the skin graft healed completely. Follow up at 6 months showed reasonable cosmetic and functional outcomes and the patient reported a significant improvement of quality of life. We believe that debulking procedures and LVA may be combined in advanced GL and LEL and may provide good outcomes.
Lithium‐Festelektrolyte für Energiespeicher
Authors: Rettenwander Daniel , Wilkening Martin
Published: May 2018

Keramische Feststoffbatterien benötigen elektrochemisch stabile, hochleitfähige Materialien, in denen die Lithiumionen ultraschnell diffundieren. Mit Mikrokontaktimpedanz‐ und insbesondere mit NMR‐Spektroskopie lassen sich die dynamischen Prozesse in kristallinen und amorphen Ionenleitern studieren. Diese Methoden helfen zudem, die besten Kandidaten für sichere Energiespeichersysteme zu identifizieren.
Trendbericht Technische Chemie
Authors: Etzold Bastian J. M. , Nieken Ulrich , Sauer Jörg , Ziegenbalg Dirk
Published: May 2018

Merkmale der technischen Chemie sind vor allem das Verknüpfen von Prozessen auf unterschiedlichen Skalen und der interdisziplinäre Charakter. Der Trendbericht zeigt, wie aktuell diese verbindenden Funktionen der technischen Chemie sind.
Forschungspolitik: Mehr Chemie in die Energie
Authors: Reuter Martin
Published: May 2018

Die Energiewende erschwert es der deutschen Chemieindustrie, im internationalen Standortwettbewerb mitzuhalten. Welche Chancen bieten sich der Chemieindustrie und vor welchen Herausforderungen steht sie, damit Chemie‐ und Energiewende zusammenkommen?
Himbeerkuchen im Labor
Authors: Herbig Marcus , Böhme Uwe
Published: May 2018

Minicomputer zu einem Preis von unter 50 Euro können Daten erfassen, Messgeräte steuern und so den Laboralltag vereinfachen.
Elastoplasticity with linear tetrahedral elements: A variational multiscale method
Authors: Abboud Nabil , Scovazzi Guglielmo
Published: May 2018

We present a computational framework for the simulation ofJ2‐elastic/plastic materials in complex geometries based on simple piecewise linear finite elements on tetrahedral grids. We avoid spurious numerical instabilities by means of a specific stabilization method of the variational multiscale kind. Specifically, we introduce the concept of subgrid‐scale displacements, velocities, and pressures, approximated as functions of the governing equation residuals. The subgrid‐scale displacements/velocities are scaled using an effective (tangent) elastoplastic shear modulus, and we demonstrate the beneficial effects of introducing a subgrid‐scale pressure in the plastic regime. We provide proofs of stability and convergence of the proposed algorithms. These methods are initially presented in the context of static computations and then extended to the case of dynamics, where we demonstrate that, in general, naïve extensions of stabilized methods developed initially for static computations seem not effective. We conclude by proposing a dynamic version of the stabilizing mechanisms, which obviates this problematic issue. In its final form, the proposed approach is simple and efficient, as it requires only minimal additional computational and storage cost with respect to a standard finite element relying on a piecewise linear approximation of the displacement field.
The dilemma for small human service nonprofits: Engaging in collaborations with limited human resource capacity
Authors: Kim Mirae , Peng Shuyang
Published: May 2018

Although the topic of nonprofit collaboration has attracted much scholarly attention, few studies have focused on collaborations of small nonprofits in particular. This study examines the human resource capacity dilemma that many small human service nonprofit organizations face and its relationship to a nonprofit's collaboration efforts. Our analysis is based on 2016 online survey data from 229 small human service nonprofit organizations with annual gross receipts of less than $500,000. Descriptive results show that most of the small human service nonprofits have very few paid staff. Even so, over 90% of these small human service nonprofit organizations are involved in formal collaborations and/or informal networks. Analytical results suggest that organizations are more likely to participate in formal collaborations when they have at least one or more full‐time employees; these collaborations help organizations obtain funding and meet client needs. We discuss the implications of our findings and offer insights for small nonprofits that aim to expand service capacity through collaborations.
Tumour‐like lesions in a Late Bronze Age skeleton from Gonur Depe, Southern Turkmenistan
Authors: Kufterin V.V. , Dubova N.A. , Nikiforovsky Y.A.
Published: May 2018

The article describes tumour‐like lesions in a Bronze Age skeleton from Southern Turkmenistan. The combination of pathological manifestations observed in the skeleton does not permit making exact conclusions. Based on the skeletal lesions, malignant bone tumour (chondrosarcoma or parosteal osteosarcoma) seems to be the most feasible diagnosis. If this diagnosis is correct, the skeleton represents one of the earliest cases of primary malignant tumours known to date.
Two‐way multi‐shape memory properties of peroxide crosslinked ethylene vinyl‐acetate copolymer (EVA)/polycaprolactone (PCL) blends
Authors: Han Jin‐Lin , Lai Sun‐Mou , Chiu Yu Ting
Published: May 2018

Rare studies have investigated on the 2‐way shape memory crosslinked blends with multiple shape memory behavior up to date. To consider the merit of commercial cost‐competitive crystalline polymers, ethylene vinyl‐acetate copolymer (EVA)/polycaprolactone (PCL) blends (60/40 and 30/70) were peroxide‐cured to form the 2‐way multi‐shape memory crosslinked blends using a melt‐blending method. Both resins were selected to have a similar controlled crosslinking degree, which allowed us to distinctly evaluate their actuation contributions from the cooling‐induced elongation (crystallization) and from the entropy‐driven elongation during cooling process, respectively. In the 2‐way process for the 60/40 system, 2 respective peaks contributed from the cooling‐induced crystallization of EVA and PCL in the cooling curves based on the strain derivate rates at various temperatures were observed. After the cooling process under the loading stress of 150 kPa, the 2‐step heating‐induced contraction process with increasing temperature started at 54.1°C above the melting temperature of PCL at 52.3°C and EVA at 78.3°C, demonstrating 2‐way multi‐shape memory behavior. The multi‐step behavior was more prominent at higher PCL composition and higher load for the 30/70 system. It was found that the entropy‐driven contribution to the overall actuation magnitude increased with increasing nominal loads due to the increased orientation of molecular networks in the blends. The current approach offers numerous possibilities in preparing 2‐way multi‐shape memory crosslinked blends.
A new cross‐linked system of silicone rubber based on silicone‐polyurea block copolymer
Authors: Liu Yuetao , Zhu Dan , Sun Jiawen , Wu Yumin , Gao Chuanhui
Published: May 2018

A new cross‐linked system of silicone rubber (SR) was obtained from silicone‐polyurea block copolymers that was synthesized with aminopropyl terminated polydimethylsiloxane and (4‐isocyanatocyclohexyl)‐methane. SR possessed self‐reinforced and physical cross‐linked structure. It had better mechanical properties that the hardness, the tensile strength, and the elongation at break could reach 65 Shore A, 3.78 MPa, and 458% with the polyurea segment content ranging from 2.01% to 9.13% by weight. The hydrogen bond that led to the physical cross‐linked structure was proved byFourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The microphase separated structure that caused the self‐reinforcement was illustrated by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results showed the hydrogen bond formation between the polyurea units. Scanning electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis, and X‐ray diffraction analysis results proved the microphase separation existed between polyurea units and ―Si―O―Si― chains. The increase of polyurea contents enhanced the binding of hydrogen bond and improved the extent of microphase separation. Accordingly, it decreased the thermal properties and lowered the glass transition temperature (Tg) from −108°C to −114°C. Also, the increase of polyurea contents increased the hydrophobicity of SR that the surface free energy could reach to −24.81 mN/m.
Hepatoblastoma in patients with molecularly proven familial adenomatous polyposis: Clinical characteristics and rationale for surveillance screening
Authors: Trobaugh‐Lotrario Angela D. , López‐Terrada Dolores , Li Peng , Feusner James H.
Published: May 2018

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) due to APC mutation is associated with an increased risk of hepatoblastoma. All cases of hepatoblastoma in patients with FAP reported in the literature were reviewed. One hundred and nine patients were identified. Thirty‐five patients (of 49 with data) were diagnosed with hepatoblastoma prior to a later diagnosis of FAP (often in association with advanced colorectal carcinoma), emphasizing a need to identify patients earlier with germline APC mutations for early colorectal carcinoma screening. Hepatoblastoma may present at birth, and screening for hepatoblastoma in infancy in families with FAP prior to APC mutation testing results may be warranted.
Die Temperatur an die Kette gelegt
Authors: Ucke Christian , Schlichting Hans Joachim
Published: May 2018

Kettenthermometer sind eine wenig bekannte und kaum noch erhältliche Thermometervariante. Sie ähneln auf den ersten Blick den bekannten Galilei‐Thermometern, verfügen jedoch nur über eine schwebende Kugel mit anhängender Kette. Das physikalische Prinzip ist einfach. Deswegen kann man sie mit vertretbarem Aufwand und experimentellem Geschick weitgehend mit Alltagsmaterialien selbst bauen.
Das Antiproton im Fokus
Authors: Smorra Christian , Sellner Stefan , Ulmer Stefan
Published: May 2018

Mit neuen Messmethoden haben wir das Ladung‐Masse‐Verhältnis und das magnetische Moment des Antiprotons auf 11 beziehungsweise 9 signifikante Dezimalstellen genau bestimmt. Zusätzlich haben wir eine neue Methode entwickelt, um Schranken für die Lebensdauer von Antiprotonen zu setzen. Für unsere Experimente nutzen wir ein hochempfindliches System aus vier Penning‐Fallen, in denen Antiprotonen zwischen Präzisions‐ und Analysefallen hin und her transportiert werden können. Damit kennen wir jetzt zwei grundlegende Eigenschaften des Antiprotons mit vergleichbarer Genauigkeit wie die des Protons. Diese Messungen ergeben zusammen einen hochsensitiven Test, der bis zu der erreichten Empfindlichkeitsgrenze vorerst die CPT‐Symmetrie für Baryonen und damit das Standardmodell untermauert. Das Rätsel des Materieüberschusses im Kosmos bleibt weiterhin ungelöst.
Characterization of the Composition of Solid Mixtures Using Particle Shape Distributions Obtained by Image Analysis
Authors: Schüle Antje , Rasemann Winfried , Preuβe Cordula
Published: May 2018

There are many applications of particle technology in which solid mixtures consisting of particles having the same chemical, mineralogical and physical properties are used. The particles are then distinguishable only by shape. The particle shape significantly influences the technological behaviour of the mixture and the properties of the materials produced. Therefore, mathematical procedures are necessary in order to determine the composition of such a mixture according to the proportions of certain particle shape classes. These classes are the respective components of the mixture. In this work, various statistical methods were tested to classify the particles by shape analysis. A two‐component mixture of quartz and muscovite was used as a reference material. The results obtained by different theoretical methods were compared with each other. Alternative methods such as histogram fit and the EM algorithm provided better results than the conventional method of discriminant analysis, as expected. Because the statistical behaviour of the components can be estimated only using reference samples, a statistical error of about 5–10% depending on the respective sample size was met. However, this is a satisfactory result. It turned out that it is possible to conclude exclusively on the basis of the particle shape distribution about the composition of a mixture. The methodical knowledge obtained can be used in industrial applications such as the ceramic industry, the production of paints and the bulk solids technology.
Measurements of Beam Shape Coefficients in Generalized Lorenz‐Mie Theory and the Density‐Matrix Approach. Part 2: The Density‐Matrix Approach
Authors: Gouesbet Gérard
Published: May 2018

In Part 1, it was demonstrated that intensity measurements on an actual beam in the laboratory allow one to determine so‐called density matrices related to the beam shape coefficients encoding the beam and used in many expressions of the generalized Lorenz‐Mie theory. In this paper, expressions in the generalized Lorenz‐Mie theory are rewritten and it is shown that they can be expressed in terms of the density matrices rather than in terms of beam shape coefficients, leading to what is called the density matrix approach to the generalized Lorenz‐Mie theory. The possibility of rewriting the generalized Lorenz‐Mie theory in terms of quantities describing the illuminating beam and experimentally measurable in the laboratory offers new opportunities in optical characterization.
Particle Characterization by Projected Area Determination
Authors: Umhauer Heinz , Gutsch Andreas
Published: May 2018

The projected areas of non‐spherical particles do not represent an unambiguous particle characteristic. Depending on the orientation towards a constant observational direction, different projected areas result. The spectrum of all projected area values of a particle, if determined representatively, gives the probability with which a certain value is obtained by a single measurement. In this work, the frequency distributions of different examples of test objects were both calculated and measured. The objects were a cube, a rectangular parallelepiped and also three model agglomerates consisting of spheres of the same size. Instead of just one projected area, during each measuring procedure three projected areas from three orthogonal directions can be obtained. A mean value is then calculated to reduce the ambiguity of the particle characteristic and enhance the resolution. A suitable measurement set‐up is introduced. The results of calculation and measurement are compared for observation from just one direction and also simultaneous observation from three directions. The frequency distributions of the equivalent diameters of the particle projected areas show a characteristic trend of the total curve with remarkable properties. The simultaneous measurement of three values from mutually orthogonal directions and their mean value calculation result in a much narrower distribution. In this case, a non‐sphericity factor can additionally be calculated, whose frequency distribution contains information in a characteristic manner about the degree to which the particle shape differs from a sphere.
Characteristics of a Miniaturized Probe Employing the Pulse Displacement Technique
Authors: Hess Cecil F.
Published: May 2018

This paper describes a miniaturized particle sizing velocimeter developed and built by MetroLaser to measure the spatial and temporal distributions of particle size and velocity. The instrument is the first of its kind to utilize the pulse displacement technique (PDT) to measure particle size. PDT is based on the detection of scattered refraction and reflection pulses which sweep past a detector at different times as a particle traverses a narrow laser sheet. In conjunction with Mie scattering and a time‐of‐fight velocity measuring technique, the instrument provides detailed distributions of particle size from 2 μm to 6000 μm in two optical configurations, and particle velocity from 0.5 m/s to 150 m/s. This paper summarizes the theoretical foundation of PDT which allows the calculation of particle diameter from various optical parameters such as refractive index and collection angle. An overview of the instrument is presented, followed by a brief description of the miniaturized optical probe. The processing of data is described and lastly, the results of experimental studies are presented which verify the accuracy and versatility of the instrument.
Settling Behavior Characterization of Submicron Particles in Dilute and Concentrated Suspensions
Authors: Bickert Götz , Stahl Werner
Published: May 2018

In separation processes, the knowledge of particle size and density arc often not enough to describe the settling behaviour in a concentrated suspension. Therefore, a direct method for the characterization of the settling behavior of submicron particles in concentrated suspensions is introduced in a centrifugal field by a manometric sedimentation analysis. By means of this cumulative method in a homogeneous suspension, the analyses of both the interfacial settling rate and the settling rate of the particles within the concentrated suspension are possible. This permits a differential examination of settling processes in a broad concentration range. First, the influence of the solid concentration on the settling rate at the interface and within a monodisperse suspension with a range from 0.01 to 30 vol.% is represented. The relationship between the increase in settling rate through particles settling in a cluster and a concentration decrease in the suspension is also represented. Consideration of the possibilities of the analysis of polydisperse suspensions demonstrates the field of applications for this method.
Determination of Particle Size Distribution and Electrokinetic Properties with the AcoustoSizer in Comparison with Other Methods
Authors: Knösche Carsten , Friedrich Hannelore , Stintz Michael
Published: May 2018

The characterization of suspensions in process concentration is an important task for the optimization of handling and product properties. Only very few instruments are available. The AcoustoSizer (ACS) (Colloidal Dynamics PTY Ltd.) uses the so‐called electrokinetic sonic amplitude (ESA) for particle size and zeta potential determination. In this work, the results obtained at moderate concentrations were compared with results of other instruments mostly working with dilute suspensions. For the electrokinetic investigations three methods (beside the ACS) were used: electroacoustics (ESA8000, Matec Applied Sciences), microelectrophoresis (Zetamaster, Malvern Instruments) and streaming current measurements (Particle Charge Detector PCD 03‐pH, Miitek). For particle size determination different measuring techniques were applied: laser diffraction spectroscopy (Mastersizer S, Malvern Instruments), dynamic light scattering (Ultra Fine Particle Analyser, Leeds and Northrup), sedimentation analysis (Sedigraph 5000 D, Micromeritics) and scanning electron microscopy. Mainly three powders were used in the investigations: Monospher M1200 silica (Merck), Selectipur titania (Merck) and Aluminiumoxid C alumina (Degussa). The agreement between the different methods for both particle size and zeta potential measurements was excellent. Especially for the electrokinetic investigations, careful sample preparation is needed. The procedure must not change the equilibria determining the physical and chemical state of the suspension.
Self‐Assembly of Spherical or Rod‐Shaped Magnetic Nanocrystals onto Curved Substrates Governed by the Radius of Curvature
Authors: Testa‐Anta Martín , Correa‐Duarte Miguel A. , Salgueiriño Verónica
Published: May 2018

The way the assembly of colloidal nanostructures into heterostructures takes place substantially affects their physicochemical properties and performance. The layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly has shown in this regard a huge ability to drive nanomaterials onto curved substrates. Hindering the clustering to improve the distribution and allocation of nanoparticles on these assemblies can be partially controlled by geometric frustration, herein demonstrated driving magnetic nanocrystals with different morphology onto spherical substrates of tuned curvature.
Meeting report from the Prostate Cancer Foundation PSMA‐directed radionuclide scientific working group
Authors: Miyahira Andrea K. , Pienta Kenneth J. , Morris Michael J. , Bander Neil H. , Baum Richard P. , Fendler Wolfgang P. , Goeckeler William , Gorin Michael A. , Hennekes Hartwig , Pomper Martin G. , Sartor Oliver , Tagawa Scott T. , Williams Scott , Soule Howard R.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) convened a PSMA‐Directed Radionuclide Scientific Working Group on November 14, 2017, at Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY.

Methods

The meeting was attended by 35 global investigators with expertise in prostate cancer biology, radionuclide therapy, molecular imaging, prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA)‐targeted agents, drug development, and prostate cancer clinical trials. The goal of this meeting was to discuss the potential for using PSMA‐targeted radionuclide agents for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer and to define the studies and clinical trials necessary for validating and optimizing the use of these agents.

Results

Several major topic areas were discussed including the overview of PSMA biology, lessons and applications of PSMA‐targeted PET imaging, the nuances of designing PSMA‐targeted radionuclide agents, clinical experiences with PSMA‐targeted radionuclides, PCF‐funded projects to accelerate PSMA‐targeted radionuclide therapy, and barriers to the use of radionuclide treatments in widespread clinical practice.

Discussion

This article reviews the major topics discussed at the meeting with the goal of promoting research that will validate and optimize the use of PSMA‐targeted radionuclide therapies for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer.
Growth of Primary Human Osteoblasts on Plasma‐Treated and Nanodiamond‐Coated PTFE Polymer Foils
Authors: Kopova Ivana , Rezek Bohuslav , Stehlik Stepan , Ukraintsev Egor , Slepickova Kasalkova Nikola , Slepicka Petr , Potocky Stepan , Bacakova Lucie
Published: May 2018

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is widely used for constructing tissue replacements, particularly clinically used vascular prostheses, and is also applied in dental and orthopedic surgery, thanks to its non‐toxicity, high chemical resistance, low surface energy and excellent thermal stability. We report here on a comparative study in which PTFE is modified with the use of DC argon plasma (8 W, 240 s) and is coated with hydrogenated or oxidized nanodiamonds (mean size 5 nm), with a view to achieving improved body acceptance of the bio‐inert pristine material. The surface morphology characterized by scanning electron microscopy reveals a microscale and nanoscale structuring of the PTFE foils with comparable roughness among all samples (analyzed by atomic force microscopy). The water contact angle remains in the highly hydrophobic range (above 100°). However, the proliferation and metabolic activity of primary human hFOB 1.19 osteoblasts (studied for up to 7 days) are significantly enhanced by the plasma and/or by hydrogenated nanodiamond treatment (rather than by oxidized nanodiamond treatment) of the PTFE foil.
Synthesis of Organophilic Carbon Dots, Selective Screening of Trinitrophenol and a Comprehensive Understanding of Luminescence Quenching Mechanism
Authors: Ganiga Manjunatha , Mani Neema Pallikkarathodi , Cyriac Jobin
Published: May 2018

Although carbon dots (CDs) are an attractive alternative to the toxic semiconductor based luminescent materials, the plethora of carboxyl group present in its surface bestows a weak solubility in non‐polar media. Here, we demonstrated the synthesis of CDs having high solubility in non‐polar environment referred as ‘organophilic CDs’ (OCDs) via hydrothermal reaction of cyclohexane. Cyclohexane acts as a carbon source as well as dispersion media. The OCDs was well characterized using spectroscopic and microscopic methods. Further, we utilized OCDs for the selective sensing of 2,4,6‐trinitrophenol (TNP) over other structurally similar nitroaromatics (NAs), with a limit of detection of 887 nM. Detailed photophysical studies have been conducted to understand the photoluminescence (PL) quenching mechanism. The quenching was due to primary inner filter effect (IFE), which happens by the absorption of NAs at the excitation wavelength of OCDs and not due to commonly observed electron transfer mechanisms in these class of compounds.
Benzoin Condensation: A Kinetic Monitoring at the Oil‐Water Interface
Authors: Singh Anshu , Kumar Anil
Published: May 2018

The overall kinetics of condensation of benzaldehyde to benzoin has been discussed here with an aim to develop a better understanding of the change in reactivity of the interfacial reaction in the presence of co‐solvents. A key aspect of the ‘on water’ reaction is the chemistry between solvent and reactants that occur at the oil‐water interface. In particular the orientation of water molecules at the interface plays a key role in catalyzing the reaction. An initial increase in the rate constants of reaction is observed, followed by sharp fall in the reaction kinetics. An interesting interplay of hydrophobicity, hydrogen bonding and polarity of the binary mixture is inevitable in the present study. The observations are nevertheless important reference point for future investigations of ‘on water’ reactions.
Platinum‐Decorated Si Nanowires as Methanol‐Tolerant Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysts
Authors: Sun Yuyang , Jiang Binbin , Liao Fan , Liu Liangbin , Shao Mingwang
Published: May 2018

Platinum decorated Si nanowire (Pt/SiNW) catalysts were prepared by directly reducing Pt ions with Si−H bonds and exhibited excellent electrocatalytic behavior in the methanol tolerant oxygen reduction reaction. The onset potential and half wave potential of Pt/SiNW catalysts were positively shifted about 29 and 9 mV respectively compared with Pt/C commercial catalysts. Furthermore, the methanol tolerant capacity of Pt/SiNW catalysts is much higher than that of Pt/C commercial catalysts since the current density of Pt/C for methanol oxidation is 13.45 (or 20.56) folds higher when 0.1 (or 1) M methanol was added into the electrolyte. The outstanding catalytic performance of Pt/SiNW catalysts is due to the synergistic effect of Pt nanoparticles and SiNWs: Pt nanoparticles are tightly anchored SiNWs, avoiding the aggregation during the electrochemical process. Meanwhile, SiNWs may hinder the methanol oxidation and improve the tolerant capacity. The results presented here confirm the Pt/SiNW catalyst is efficient and ecologically friendly catalysts for direct methanol fuel cell technology.