bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical analysis of the reflection of incident O+ pickup ions at Mars: MAVEN observations
Authors: Masunaga K. , Seki K. , Brain D. A. , Fang X. , Dong Y. , Jakosky B. M. , McFadden J. P. , Halekas J. S. , Connerney J. E. P. , Mitchell D. L. , Eparvier F. G.
Published: March 2017

Analyzing ~1.3 year data set of O+ ion velocity distribution functions obtained from the Suprathermal and Thermal Ion Composition instrument on the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) spacecraft, we statistically investigate reflections of incident O+ pickup ions (>10 keV) occurring below the Martian bow shock. To quantitatively evaluate importance of the reflection of incident O+ pickup ions, we estimate reflection ratios by calculating average inward and outward O+ ion fluxes above the Martian bow shock. Our result shows that an average reflection ratio is 14.1 ± 6.7%. We also investigate dependences of the reflection ratio on the solar wind, solar EUV flux, and southern hemispheric crustal magnetic field on Mars. We find that the reflection ratio strongly depends on the magnitude of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), solar wind dynamic pressure, and gyroradius of O+ pickup ions in the solar wind, rather than the solar EUV flux and the crustal magnetic field. We suggest that the reflection ratio is determined by the magnetic field both in the solar wind and below the bow shock that mainly controls gyroradius of incident O+ pickup ions in these regions. We also find that the reflection ratio increases to 38.9 ± 10.2% as these parameters become extreme conditions (i.e., IMF magnitude >6 nT). Since incident O+ pickup ions are known to be a major source of atmospheric sputtering escape from Mars, our result suggests that ion reflections may have a role to reduce the sputtering escape from Mars under the extreme solar wind condition.
First observation of presunset ionospheric F region bottom‐type scattering layer
Authors: Li Guozhu , Ning Baiqi , Abdu M. A. , Wan Weixing , Wang Chi , Yang Guotao , Liu Kangkang , Liu Libo , Yan Chunxiao
Published: March 2017

The bottom‐type irregularity scattering layer (BSL) that can appear in the ionospheric F region bottomside has been observed generally after sunset, serving as a possible telltale of equatorial spread F (ESF). Using simultaneous multibeam radar measurements over two low‐latitude stations, Sanya (18.3°N, 109.6°E; dip latitude 13°N) and Fuke (19.3°N, 109.1°E; dip latitude 14°N) in China, we report, for the first time, a thin BSL that initially occurred at presunset (~1720 LT), much earlier than the occurrence of BSL generated from the equatorial plasma shear vortex‐driven instability. The presunset BSL was situated around 225 km altitude and continued to exist until the appearance of ESF plumes after sunset (~1930 LT). Interestingly, the Doppler velocities of the presunset BSL echoes measured by the radar and the F layer virtual heights obtained from the collocated Digisonde measurements over Sanya both show oscillations with a period of about 1 h, suggesting a close link between the occurrences of the BSL and of F region plasma density large‐scale wave structure before sunset. These observations could imply an important role of gravity waves in the generation of the presunset F region bottom‐type irregularities.
The hidden dynamics of relativistic electrons (0.7–1.5 MeV) in the inner zone and slot region
Authors: Claudepierre S. G. , O'Brien T. P. , Fennell J. F. , Blake J. B. , Clemmons J. H. , Looper M. D. , Mazur J. E. , Roeder J. L. , Turner D. L. , Reeves G. D. , Spence H. E.
Published: March 2017

We present measurements of relativistic electrons (0.7–1.5 MeV) in the inner zone and slot region obtained by the Magnetic Electron and Ion Spectrometer (MagEIS) instrument on Van Allen Probes. The data presented are corrected for background contamination, which is primarily due to inner‐belt protons in these low‐L regions. We find that ∼1 MeV electrons were transported into the inner zone following the two largest geomagnetic storms of the Van Allen Probes era to date, the March and June 2015 events. As ∼1 MeV electrons were not observed in Van Allen Probes data in the inner zone prior to these two events, the injections created a new inner belt that persisted for at least 1.5 years. In contrast, we find that electrons injected into the slot region decay on much faster timescales, approximately tens of days. Furthermore, we find no evidence of >1.5 MeV electrons in the inner zone during the entire time interval considered (April 2013 through September 2016). The energies we examine thus span a transition range in the steeply falling inner zone electron spectrum, where modest intensities are observed at 0.7 MeV, and no electrons are observed at 1.5 MeV. To validate the results obtained from the background corrected flux measurements, we also present detailed pulse‐height spectra from individual MagEIS detectors. These measurements confirm our results and also reveal low‐intensity inner zone and slot region electrons that are not captured in the standard background corrected data product. Finally, we briefly discuss efforts to refine the upper limit of inner zone MeV electron flux obtained in earlier work.
A scheme for forecasting severe space weather
Authors: Balan N. , Ebihara Y. , Skoug R. , Shiokawa K. , Batista I. S. , Tulasi Ram S. , Omura Y. , Nakamura T. , Fok M.‐C.
Published: March 2017

A scheme is suggested and tested for forecasting severe space weather (SvSW) using solar wind velocity (V) and the north‐south component (Bz) of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) measured using the ACE (Advanced Composition Explorer) satellite from 1998 to 2016. SvSW has caused all known electric power outages and telegraph system failures. Earlier SvSW events such as the Carrington event of 1859, Quebec event of 1989 and an event in 1958 are included with information from the literature. Dst storms are used as references to identify 89 major space weather events (DstMin ≤ −100 nT) in 1998–2016. The coincidence of high coronal mass ejection (CME) front (or CME shock) velocity ΔV (sudden increase in V over the background by over 275 km/s) and sufficiently large Bz southward at the time of the ΔV increase is associated with SvSW; and their product (ΔV × Bz) is found to exhibit a large negative spike at the speed increase. Such a product (ΔV × Bz) exceeding a threshold seems suitable for forecasting SvSW. However, the coincidence of high V (not containing ΔV) and large Bz southward does not correspond to SvSW, indicating the importance of the impulsive action of large Bz southward and high ΔV coming through when they coincide. The need for the coincidence is verified using the CRCM (Comprehensive Ring Current Model), which produces extreme Dst storms ( < −250 nT) characterizing SvSW when there is coincidence.
Biospheric and anthropogenic contributors to atmospheric CO2 variability in a residential neighborhood of Phoenix, Arizona
Authors: Song Jiyun , Wang Zhi‐Hua , Wang Chenghao
Published: March 2017

Urban environment contributes significantly to the global carbon cycle with complex governing mechanisms due to the combined biospheric and anthropogenic contributors. In this study, we analyzed the patterns of boundary layer CO2 flux and concentration for a residential neighborhood in Phoenix, Arizona by using the eddy covariance technique and a single column atmospheric model. Atmospheric stability, anthropogenic emission, and biogenic effect are found to be key determinants to atmospheric CO2 variability. In a diurnal cycle, two CO2 flux peaks coincide with morning and afternoon peak traffic hours, exemplifying the influence of traffic emissions. In the annual cycle, maximum CO2 concentration is found in winter, mainly due to additional emission from the combustion of natural gas combined with the effect of poor dispersion. On the other hand, the minimum CO2 concentration is found in the spring and is attributable to the strong convective mixing and active vegetation uptake. In addition, prominent hysteresis has been found between the atmospheric CO2 concentration and air temperature with a “plait‐shaped” pattern in the diurnal cycle and an “oval‐shaped” loop for the seasonal variability.
Infiltration of meteoric water in the South Tibetan Detachment (Mount Everest, Himalaya): When and why?
Authors: Gébelin Aude , Jessup Micah J. , Teyssier Christian , Cosca Michael A. , Law Richard D. , Brunel Maurice , Mulch Andreas
Published: March 2017

The South Tibetan Detachment (STD) in the Himalayan orogen juxtaposes low‐grade Tethyan Himalayan sequence sedimentary rocks over high‐grade metamorphic rocks of the Himalayan crystalline core. We document infiltration of meteoric fluids into the STD footwall at ~17–15 Ma, when recrystallized hydrous minerals equilibrated with low‐δD (meteoric) water. Synkinematic biotite collected over 200 m of structural section in the STD mylonitic footwall (Rongbuk Valley, near Mount Everest) record high‐temperature isotopic exchange with D‐depleted water (δDwater = −150 ± 5‰) that infiltrated the ductile segment of the detachment most likely during mylonitic deformation, although later isotopic exchange cannot be definitively excluded. These minerals also reveal a uniform pattern of middle Miocene (15 Ma) 40Ar/39Ar plateau ages. The presence of low‐δD meteoric water in the STD mylonitic footwall is further supported by hornblende and chlorite with very low δD values of −183‰ and −162‰, respectively. The δD values in the STD footwall suggest that surface‐derived fluids were channeled down to the brittle‐ductile transition. Migration of fluids from the Earth's surface to the active mylonitic detachment footwall may have been achieved by fluid flow along steep normal faults that developed during synconvergent extension of the upper Tethyan Himalayan plate. High heat flow helped sustain buoyancy‐driven fluid convection over the timescale of detachment tectonics. Low δD values in synkinematic fluids are indicative of precipitation‐derived fluids sourced at high elevation and document that the ground surface above this section of the STD had already attained similar‐to‐modern topographic elevations in the middle Miocene.
Intraseasonal oscillation enhancing C5 typhoon occurrence over the tropical western North Pacific
Authors: Weng Chun‐Hsiung , Hsu Huang‐Hsiung
Published: March 2017

This study reveals that the atmosphere‐ocean coupled intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) enhances the occurrence frequency of Category 5 (C5) typhoons in the western North Pacific (WNP). Climatologically, the major region of C5 typhoon occurrence in the WNP is collocated with the intraseasonal variance of outgoing longwave radiation and tropical cyclone heat potential. The active convection and large ocean heat content associated with ISO create an environment conducive to the occurrence of C5 typhoons. Between 1980 and 2009, approximately 82% of C5 typhoons occurred when one or both of the two conditions were fulfilled. Our results suggest that compared with the thermodynamic factor of ocean heat content, dynamic factors (i.e., convection and near‐surface moisture convergence) within the favorable intraseasonal background state likely play a more influential role in inducing C5 typhoons.
Sustainability, Ecojustice, and Adult Education
Authors: Griswold Wendy
Published: March 2017

Adult education has a significant role to play in creating a just and sustainable world. This chapter explores a continuum of perspectives related to the environment and education and highlights sustainability and ecojustice education theory and practices in this volume.
Patterning of Lyotropic Chromonic Liquid Crystals by Photoalignment with Photonic Metamasks
Authors: Peng Chenhui , Guo Yubing , Turiv Taras , Jiang Miao , Wei Qi‐Huo , Lavrentovich Oleg D.
Published: March 2017

Controlling supramolecular self‐assembly in water‐based solutions is an important problem of interdisciplinary character that impacts the development of many functional materials and systems. Significant progress in aqueous self‐assembly and templating has been demonstrated by using lyotropic chromonic liquid crystals (LCLCs) as these materials show spontaneous orientational order caused by unidirectional stacking of plank‐like molecules into elongated aggregates. In this work, it is demonstrated that the alignment direction of chromonic assemblies can be patterned into complex spatially‐varying structures with very high micrometer‐scale precision. The approach uses photoalignment with light beams that exhibit a spatially‐varying direction of light polarization. The state of polarization is imprinted into a layer of photosensitive dye that is protected against dissolution into the LCLC by a liquid crystalline polymer layer. The demonstrated level of control over the spatial orientation of LCLC opens opportunities for engineering materials and devices for optical and biological applications.
Photoconversion‐Tunable Fluorophore Vesicles for Wavelength‐Dependent Photoinduced Cancer Therapy
Authors: He Hui , Ji Shuangshuang , He Yang , Zhu Aijun , Zou Yelin , Deng Yibin , Ke Hengte , Yang Hong , Zhao Youliang , Guo Zhengqing , Chen Huabing
Published: March 2017

Photoconversion tunability of fluorophore dye is of great interest in cancer nanomedicine such as fluorescence imaging, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and photothermal therapy (PTT). Herein, this paper reports wavelength‐dependent photoconversional polymeric vesicles of boron dipyrromethene (Bodipy) fluorophore for either PDT under 660 nm irradiation or PTT under 785 nm irradiation. After being assembled within polymeric vesicles at a high drug loading, Bodipy molecules aggregate in the conformations of both J‐type and H‐type, thereby causing red‐shifted absorption into near‐infrared region, ultralow radiative transition, and ideal resistance to photobleaching. Such vesicles further possess enhanced blood circulation, preferable tumor accumulation, as well as superior cell uptake as compared to free Bodipy. In particular, the vesicles mainly generate abundant intracellular singlet oxygen for PDT treatment under 660 nm irradiation, while they primarily produce a potent hyperthermia for PTT with tumor ablation through singlet oxygen‐synergized photothermal necrosis under 785 nm irradiation. This approach provides a facile and general strategy to tune photoconversion characteristics of fluorophore dyes for wavelength‐dependent photoinduced cancer therapy.
Microsphere Solid‐State Biolasers
Authors: Ta Van Duong , Caixeiro Soraya , Fernandes Francisco M. , Sapienza Riccardo
Published: March 2017

Biolasers obtained from biomaterials are attracting a wealth of interest for their potential as future biosensors with enhanced sensitivity, and advanced cell tracking. Here, miniature biolasers are reported, which are formed by bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein and biosourced polysaccharides derived from land plants such as cellulose and pectin. Using a green processing route aided by simple emulsions, solid‐state microspheres with diameters of 15–100 µm are fabricated and utilized as whispering gallery mode lasers with thresholds of a few µJ mm–2 and quality factors of up to 3000. Furthermore, BSA microlasers are found to be compatible with cell growth and resistant to the aqueous environment of cell culture media. This environmentally friendly and biocompatible design shows promise for future implantable biosensing devices opening a path between laser science and medicine.
Biocatalytic Approaches towards the Synthesis of Chiral Amino Alcohols from Lysine: Cascade Reactions Combining alpha‐Keto Acid Oxygenase Hydroxylation with Pyridoxal Phosphate‐ Dependent Decarboxylation
Authors: Baud Damien , Peruch Olivier , Saaidi Pierre‐Loïc , Fossey Aurélie , Mariage Aline , Petit Jean‐Louis , Salanoubat Marcel , Vergne‐Vaxelaire Carine , de Berardinis Véronique , Zaparucha Anne
Published: March 2017

Amino alcohols are a very common structural motif in natural and synthetic molecules. Starting from l‐lysine and hydroxy‐l‐lysine, a straightforward biocatalytic synthesis of beta‐ and gamma‐amino alcohols is presented. Diastereoselective C–H oxidation catalyzed by an alpha‐keto acid‐dependent oxygenase followed by cleavage of the carboxylic acid moiety of the corresponding chiral hydroxy amino acid by a pyridoxal phosphate‐dependent decarboxylase enabled the formation of the target amino alcohols with moderate to complete conversions. Four beta‐ and gamma‐amino alcohols were obtained on a small scale in excellent yields and stereoselectivities.

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Direct Imaging of the Relaxation of Individual Ferroelectric Interfaces in a Tensile‐Strained Film
Authors: Li Linglong , Cao Ye , Somnath Suhas , Yang Yaodong , Jesse Stephen , Ehara Yoshitaka , Funakubo Hiroshi , Chen Long‐Qing , Kalinin Sergei V. , Vasudevan Rama K.
Published: March 2017

Understanding the dynamic behavior of interfaces in ferroic materials is an important field of research with widespread practical implications, as the motion of domain walls and phase boundaries are associated with substantial increases in dielectric and piezoelectric effects. Although commonly studied in the macroscopic regime, the local dynamics of interfaces have received less attention, with most studies limited to domain growth and/or reversal by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM). Here, spatial mapping of local domain wall‐related relaxation in a tensile‐strained PbTiO3 thin film using time‐resolved band‐excitation PFM is demonstrated, which allows exploring of the field‐induced strain (piezoresponse) as a function of applied voltage and time. Through multivariate statistical analysis on the resultant 4‐dimensional dataset (x,y,V,t) with functional fitting, it is determined that the relaxation is strongly correleated with the distance to the domain walls, and varies based on the type of domain wall present in the probed volume. Phase‐field modeling shows the relaxation behavior near and away from the interfaces, and confirms the modulation of the z‐component of polarization by wall motion, yielding the observed piezoresponse relaxation. These studies shed light on the local dynamics of interfaces in ferroelectric thin films, and are therefore important for the design of ferroelectric‐based components in microelectromechanical systems.
A Moldable Nanocomposite Hydrogel Composed of a Mussel‐Inspired Polymer and a Nanosilicate as a Fit‐to‐Shape Tissue Sealant
Authors: Liu Yuan , Meng Hao , Qian Zichen , Fan Ni , Choi Wonyoung , Zhao Feng , Lee Bruce P.
Published: March 2017

The engineering of bioadhesives to bind and conform to the complex contour of tissue surfaces remains a challenge. We have developed a novel moldable nanocomposite hydrogel by combining dopamine‐modified poly(ethylene glycol) and the nanosilicate Laponite, without the use of cytotoxic oxidants. The hydrogel transitioned from a reversibly cross‐linked network formed by dopamine–Laponite interfacial interactions to a covalently cross‐linked network through the slow autoxidation and cross‐linking of catechol moieties. Initially, the hydrogel could be remolded to different shapes, could recover from large strain deformation, and could be injected through a syringe to adhere to the convex contour of a tissue surface. With time, the hydrogel solidified to adopt the new shape and sealed defects on the tissue. This fit‐to‐shape sealant has potential in sealing tissues with non‐flat geometries, such as a sutured anastomosis.
The Human Pelvis: Variation in Structure and Function During Gait
Authors: Lewis Cara L. , Laudicina Natalie M. , Khuu Anne , Loverro Kari L.
Published: March 2017

The shift to habitual bipedalism 4–6 million years ago in the hominin lineage created a morphologically and functionally different human pelvis compared to our closest living relatives, the chimpanzees. Evolutionary changes to the shape of the pelvis were necessary for the transition to habitual bipedalism in humans. These changes in the bony anatomy resulted in an altered role of muscle function, influencing bipedal gait. Additionally, there are normal sex‐specific variations in the pelvis as well as abnormal variations in the acetabulum. During gait, the pelvis moves in the three planes to produce smooth and efficient motion. Subtle sex‐specific differences in these motions may facilitate economical gait despite differences in pelvic structure. The motions of the pelvis and hip may also be altered in the presence of abnormal acetabular structure, especially with acetabular dysplasia. Anat Rec, 300:633–642, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comprehensive assessment of sugarcane straw: implications for biomass and bioenergy production
Authors: Menandro Lauren Maine Santos , Cantarella Heitor , Franco Henrique Coutinho Junqueira , Kölln Oriel Tiago , Pimenta Maria Teresa Borges , Sanches Guilherme Martineli , Rabelo Sarita Cândida , Carvalho João Luís Nunes
Published: March 2017

Sugarcane straw, consisting of green tops and dry leaves, can be maintained on fields to improve soil quality, or harvested for bioenergy production. The optimum option between these two uses is still uncertain and requires further study. This study, conducted across three crop cycles, provides an assessment of the moisture, nutrients, ash, extractives, cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin contents of four sugarcane varieties across seven regions of south‐central Brazil. Suitability of the straw fractions for nutrient recycling, bioelectricity, and second‐generation ethanol production were also evaluated. Results showed that the sugarcane straw yield (dry mass) was 14.0 Mg ha−1, and the ratio of dry straw/fresh stalk was 12%. The composition of green tops and dry leaves differed consistently across varieties, sites, and crop cycles. Dry leaves represented 60% of the straw, but green tops contained about 70% of the total N, P, and K content. Therefore, green tops recycled up to four times more nutrients than dry leaves. Green tops also had six times higher moisture and greater chlorine content which decreased the mill process efficiency. In turn, dry leaves had higher lignin, cellulose, and hemicelluloses content, greater heating value (higher: 17.3 MJ kg−1; lower: 15.6 MJ kg−1) and tended to be a better second‐generation ethanol production feedstock. Overall, the results show that it is preferable to use dry leaves for bioenergy production while leaving green tops on the field for nutrient recycling. This study pointed out that more efficient methods for separating these fractions in the field need to be developed. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Preparing for biological threats: Addressing the needs of pregnant women
Authors: Watson Amelia K. , Ellington Sascha , Nelson Christina , Treadwell Tracee , Jamieson Denise J. , Meaney‐Delman Dana M.
Published: March 2017

Intentional release of infectious agents and biological weapons to cause illness and death has the potential to greatly impact pregnant women and their fetuses. We review what is known about the maternal and fetal effects of seven biological threats:Bacillus anthracis(anthrax); variola virus (smallpox);Clostridium botulinumtoxin (botulism);Burkholderia mallei(glanders) andBurkholderia pseudomallei(melioidosis);Yersinia pestis(plague);Francisella tularensis(tularemia); andRickettsia prowazekii(typhus). Evaluating the potential maternal, fetal, and infant consequences of an intentional release of an infectious agent requires an assessment of several key issues: (1) are pregnant women more susceptible to infection or illness compared to the general population?; (2) are pregnant women at increased risk for severe illness, morbidity, and mortality compared to the general population?; (3) does infection or illness during pregnancy place women, the fetus, or the infant at increased risk for adverse outcomes and how does this affect clinical management?; and (4) are the medical countermeasures recommended for the general population safe and effective during pregnancy? These issues help frame national guidance for the care of pregnant women during an intentional release of a biological threat. Birth Defects Research 109:391–398, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adipose tissue NAD+ biology in obesity and insulin resistance: From mechanism to therapy
Authors: Yamaguchi Shintaro , Yoshino Jun
Published: March 2017

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) biosynthetic pathway, mediated by nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), a key NAD+ biosynthetic enzyme, plays a pivotal role in controlling many biological processes, such as metabolism, circadian rhythm, inflammation, and aging. Over the past decade, NAMPT‐mediated NAD+ biosynthesis, together with its key downstream mediator, namely the NAD+‐dependent protein deacetylase SIRT1, has been demonstrated to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism in a tissue‐dependent manner. These discoveries have provided novel mechanistic and therapeutic insights into obesity and its metabolic complications, such as insulin resistance, an important risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This review will focus on the importance of adipose tissue NAMPT‐mediated NAD+ biosynthesis and SIRT1 in the pathophysiology of obesity and insulin resistance. We will also critically explore translational and clinical aspects of adipose tissue NAD+ biology.
A cleavable self‐assembling tag strategy for preparing proteins and peptides with an authentic N‐terminus
Authors: Zhao Qing , Zhou Bihong , Gao Xianxing , Xing Lei , Wang Xu , Lin Zhanglin
Published: March 2017

Recombinant protein expression and purification remains a central need for biotechnology. Herein, the authors report a streamlined protein and peptide purification strategy using short self‐assembling peptides and a C‐terminal cleavage intein. In this strategy, the fusion protein is first expressed as an aggregate induced by the self‐assembling peptide. Upon simple separation, the target protein or peptide with an authentic N‐terminus is then released in the solution by intein‐mediated cleavage. Different combinations of four self‐assembling peptides (ELK16, L6KD, FK and FR) with three inteins (Sce VMA, Mtu ΔI‐CM and Ssp DnaB) were explored. One protein and two peptides were used as model polypeptides to test the strategy. The intein Mtu ΔI‐CM, which has pH‐shift inducible cleavage, was found to work well with three self‐assembling peptides (L6KD, FR, FK). Using this intein gave a yield of protein or peptide comparable with that from other more established strategies, such as the Trx‐strategy, but in a simpler and more economical way. This strategy provides a simple and efficient method by which to prepare proteins and peptides with an authentic N‐terminus, which is especially effective for peptides of 30‐100 amino acids in length that are typically unstable and susceptible to degradation in Escherichia coli.
A Biocatalytic Nanomaterial for the Label‐Free Detection of Virus‐Like Particles
Authors: Sykora Sabine , Correro M. Rita , Moridi Negar , Belliot Gaël , Pothier Pierre , Dudal Yves , Corvini Philippe F.‐X. , Shahgaldian Patrick
Published: March 2017

The design of nanomaterials that are capable of specific and sensitive biomolecular recognition is an on‐going challenge in the chemical and biochemical sciences. A number of sophisticated artificial systems have been designed to specifically recognize a variety of targets. However, methods based on natural biomolecular detection systems using antibodies are often superior. Besides greater affinity and selectivity, antibodies can be easily coupled to enzymatic systems that act as signal amplifiers, thus permitting impressively low detection limits. The possibility to translate this concept to artificial recognition systems remains limited due to design incompatibilities. Here we describe the synthesis of a synthetic nanomaterial capable of specific biomolecular detection by using an internal biocatalytic colorimetric detection and amplification system. The design of this nanomaterial relies on the ability to accurately grow hybrid protein‐organosilica layers at the surface of silica nanoparticles. The method allows for label‐free detection and quantification of targets at picomolar concentrations.
Right ventricular remodelling after transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation
Authors: Pagourelias Efstathios D. , Daraban Ana M. , Mada Razvan O. , Duchenne Jürgen , Mirea Oana , Cools Bjorn , Heying Ruth , Boshoff Derize , Bogaert Jan , Budts Werner , Gewillig Marc , Voigt Jens‐Uwe
Published: March 2017

Objectives

To define the optimal timing for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation (PR) after Fallot's Tetralogy (ToF) correction.

Background

PPVI among the aforementioned patients is mainly driven by symptoms or by severe right ventricular (RV) dilatation/dysfunction. The optimal timing for PPVI is still disputed.

Methods

Twenty patients [age 13.9 ± 9.2 years, (range 4.3–44.9), male 70%] with severe PR (≥3 grade) secondary to previous correction of ToF, underwent Melody valve (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN) implantation, after a pre‐stent placement. Full echocardiographic assessment (traditional and deformation analysis) and cardiovascular magnetic resonance evaluation were performed before and at 3 months after the intervention. ‘Favorable remodelling’ was considered the upper quartile of RV size decrease (>20% in 3 months).

Results

After PPVI, indexed RV effective stroke volume increased from 38.4 ± 9.5 to 51.4 ± 10.7 mL/m2, (P = 0.005), while RV end‐diastolic volume and strain indices decreased (123.1 ± 24.1–101.5 ± 18.3 mL/m2, P = 0.005 and −23.5 ± 2.5 to −21 ± 2.5%, P = 0.002, respectively). After inserting pre‐PPVI clinical, RV volumetric and deformation parameters in a multiple regression model, only time after last surgical correction causing PR remained as significant regressor of RV remodelling [R2 = 0.60, beta = 0.387, 95%CI(0.07–0.7), P = 0.019]. Volume reduction and functional improvement were more pronounced in patients treated with PPVI earlier than 7 years after last RV outflow tract (RVOT) correction, reaching close‐to‐normal values.

Conclusions

Early PPVI (<7 years after last RVOT operation) is associated with a more favorable RV reverse remodelling toward normal range and should be considered, before symptoms or RV damage become apparent. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
What can intracoronary pressure measurements tell us about flow reserve? Pressure‐Bounded coronary flow reserve and example application to the randomized DEFER trial
Authors: Zimmermann Frederik M. , Pijls Nico H. J. , De Bruyne Bernard , Bech G. Jan‐Willem , van Schaardenburgh Pepijn , Kirkeeide Richard L. , Gould K. Lance , Johnson Nils P.
Published: March 2017

Objective

We propose a novel technique called pressure‐bounded coronary flow reserve (pb‐CFR) and demonstrate its application to the randomized DEFER trial.

Background

Intracoronary flow reserve assessment remains underutilized relative to pressure measurements partly due to less robust tools.

Methods

While rest and hyperemic intracoronary pressure measurements cannot quantify CFR exactly, they do provide upper and lower bounds. We validated pb‐CFR invasively against traditional CFR, then applied it to high fractional flow reserve (FFR ≥ 0.75) lesions in DEFER randomized to revascularization or medical therapy.

Results

pb‐CFR showed an 84.4% accuracy to predict invasive CFR < 2 or CFR ≥ 2 in 107 lesions. In its proof of concept application to DEFER lesions with FFR ≥ 0.75, the 28 with pb‐CFR < 2 compared to 28 with pb‐CFR ≥ 2 had a non‐significant reduction in freedom from angina (61% vs. 71% at 5 years, P = 0.57) and a non‐significantly higher rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE, 25% vs. 15%, P = 0.34). Lesions with FFR ≥ 0.75 but pb‐CFR < 2 showed no difference in freedom from angina (61% vs. 50%, P = 0.54) or MACE (25% vs. 38%, P = 0.27) between the 28 randomized to medical therapy and the 16 randomized to revascularization.

Conclusions

pb‐CFR offers a new method for studying FFR/CFR discordances using regular pressure wire measurements. As an example application, DEFER suggested that low pb‐CFR with high FFR may be a risk marker for more angina and worse outcomes, but that this risk cannot be modified by revascularization. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
One‐year outcomes after successful chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention: The impact of dissection re‐entry techniques
Authors: Wilson W. M. , Walsh S.J. , Bagnall A. , Yan A.T. , Hanratty C.G. , Egred M. , Smith E. , Oldroyd K.G. , McEntegart M. , Irving J. , Douglas H. , Strange J. , Spratt J.C.
Published: March 2017

We aimed to determine clinical outcomes 1 year after successful chronic total occlusion (CTO) PCI and, in particular, whether use of dissection and re‐entry strategies affects clinical outcomes. Hybrid approaches have increased the procedural success of CTO percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) but longer‐term outcomes are unknown, particularly in relation to dissection and re‐entry techniques. Data were collected for consecutive CTO PCIs performed by hybrid‐trained operators from 7 United Kingdom (UK) centres between 2012 and 2014. The primary endpoint (death, myocardial infarction, unplanned target vessel revascularization) was measured at 12 months along with angina status. One‐year follow up data were available for 96% of successful cases (n = 805). In total, 85% of patients had a CCS angina class of 2–4 prior to CTO PCI. Final successful procedural strategy was antegrade wire escalation 48%; antegrade dissection and re‐entry (ADR) 21%; retrograde wire escalation 5%; retrograde dissection and re‐entry (RDR) 26%. Overall, 47% of CTOs were recanalized using dissection and re‐entry strategies. During a mean follow up of 11.5 ± 3.8 months, the primary endpoint occurred in 8.6% (n = 69) of patients (10.3% (n = 39/375) in DART group and 7.0% (n = 30/430) in wire‐based cases). The majority of patients (88%) had no or minimal angina (CCS class 0 or 1). ADR and RDR were used more frequently in more complex cases with greater disease burden, however, the only independent predictor of the primary endpoint was lesion length. CTO PCI in complex lesions using the hybrid approach is safe, effective and has a low one‐year adverse event rate. The method used to recanalize arteries was not associated with adverse outcomes. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Incidence and predictors of coronary obstruction following transcatheter aortic valve implantation in the real world
Authors: Arai Takahide , Lefèvre Thierry , Hovasse Thomas , Garot Philippe , Benamer Hakim , Unterseeh Thierry , Roy Andrew K. , Romano Mauro , Hayashida Kentaro , Watanabe Yusuke , Bouvier Erik , Morice Marie‐Claude , Chevalier Bernard
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Coronary obstruction (CO) is a rare but serious complication of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). There are very limited data regarding CO following TAVI. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and outcomes of CO after TAVI and identify the predictors including the valve type.

Methods

Between October 2006 and March 2015, 1,203 TAVI cases were performed in our institution. Of them, 814 cases whose coronary height was measured using computed tomography for screening were analyzed in this study.

Results

The Edwards SAPIEN/SAPIEN XT (S/XT) was used in 427 (52.4%) cases, the CoreValve in 265 (32.6%), and the S3 in 122 (15.0%). CO occurred in 8 (1.0%) cases, 1.6% with S/XT, 0.4% with CoreValve, and 0% with S3. All instances of CO occurred at the left coronary artery. The 30‐day mortality was significantly higher in cases of CO (37.5% vs. 5.8%, P = 0.010). The frequency of CO tended to be lower in recipients of the CoreValve (0.4%) and S3 (0%) compared with the S/XT (1.6%) (P = 0.188 for CoreValve vs. S/XT, P = 0.022 for S3 vs. S/XT).

Conclusions

CO has poor outcomes and identification of patients at risk of CO to take preventive measures is crucial. The preliminary data showing that the occurrence of CO is low in patients receiving the S3 despite increased prosthesis height need further confirmation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First report of a simultaneous transcatheter mitral valve‐in‐valve and aortic valve replacement in a left ventricular assist device patient
Authors: Meduri Christopher , Kauten James , Vannan Mani , Rajagopal Vivek
Published: March 2017

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement is standard of care for patients with severe aortic stenosis at high risk for surgical aortic valve replacement. Although not intended for treatment of primary aortic insufficiency, several transcatheter aortic valve prostheses have been used to treat patients with severe aortic insufficiency (AI), including patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD), in whom significant AI is not uncommon. Similarly, transcatheter valve replacements have been used for valve‐in‐valve treatment, in the pulmonary, aortic, and mitral positions, either via a retrograde femoral approach or antegrade transseptal approach (mitral valve‐in‐valve). In this case report, we report an LVAD patient with severe aortic insufficiency and severe bioprosthetic mitral prosthetic stenosis, in whom we successfully performed transfemoral aortic valve replacement and transfemoral mitral valve‐in‐valve replacement via a transseptal approach. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Percutaneous treatment of late complications of the Bentall procedure
Authors: Delorme S. , Ruchat P. , Goy J.J.
Published: March 2017

Aortic pseudo‐aneurysm following the Bentall procedure is a rare but potentially severe complication. Surgical reintervention represents a high risk. We report on two cases with different pseudo‐aneurysm types which were successfully treated using two different percutaneous techniques. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrochemical Synthesis and Characterization of Flavin Mononucleotide‐Exfoliated Pristine Graphene/Polypyrrole Composites
Authors: Martinez Jose G. , Ayán‐Varela Miguel , Paredes Juan I. , Villar‐Rodil Silvia , Aznar‐Cervantes Salvador D. , Otero Toribio F.
Published: March 2017

The electrochemical generation of graphene‐polypyrrole composite films is presented here by using pristine, oxide‐free graphene flakes obtained through the direct exfoliation of graphite in water with flavin mononucleotide (FMN) as a colloidal stabilizer (FMN−G‐PPy films): an environmentally friendly methodology. The best potential and current ranges for the electropolymerization of pyrrole in the presence of FMN−G, trying to avoid parallel over‐oxidation/degradation processes, were determined from voltammetric responses of the different solutions. Then, a parallel study of the electrogeneration of FMN−G‐PPy films on clean Pt electrodes by using cyclic voltammetry, potentiostatic or galvanostatic conditions, was performed. The subsequent electrochemical characterization of the resulting films and parallel energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis of different oxidized states revealed the separate oxidation/reduction of graphene and polypyrrole inside the material. Graphene reactions (n‐doping) drive the exchange of cations, whereas polypyrrole reactions (p‐doping) drive the exchange of anions. The specific charge storage in FMN−G‐PPy, 207 mC mg−1, is higher than that stored in polypyrrole, 141 mC mg−1, indicating some synergy. An unexpected high content of anions was found in deeply reduced materials. The surface morphology of the oxidized and reduced materials generated by different methodologies was studied by using scanning electron microscopy.
Zinc versus Magnesium: Orthogonal Catalyst Reactivity in Selective Polymerizations of Epoxides, Bio‐derived Anhydrides and Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Saini Prabhjot K. , Fiorani Giulia , Mathers Robert T. , Williams Charlotte K.
Published: March 2017

Developing selective polymerizations from complex monomer mixtures is an important challenge. Here, dinuclear catalysts allow selective polymerization from mixtures of sterically hindered tricyclic anhydrides, carbon dioxide and epoxides to yield well‐controlled copoly(ester‐carbonates). Surprisingly, two very similar homogeneous catalysts differing only in the central metal, zinc versus magnesium, show very high but diametrically opposite monomer selectivity. The selectivity is attributed to different polymerization kinetics and to steric factors associated with the anhydrides.
Analogues of Dehydroacetic Acid as Selective and Potent Agonists of an Ectopic Odorant Receptor through a Combination of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Interactions
Authors: Park Bernie Byunghoon , Lee NaHye , Kim YunHye , Jae YoonGyu , Choi Seunghyun , Kang NaNa , Hong Yu Ri , Ok Kiwon , Cho Jeonghee , Jeon Young Ho , Lee Eun Hee , Byun Youngjoo , Koo JaeHyung
Published: March 2017

Identification of potent agonists of odorant receptors (ORs), a major class of G protein‐coupled receptors, remains challenging due to complex receptor–ligand interactions. ORs are present in both olfactory and non‐chemosensory tissues, indicating roles beyond odor detection that may include modulating physiological functions in non‐olfactory tissues. Selective and potent agonists specific for particular ORs can be used to investigate physiological functions of ORs in non‐chemosensory tissues. In this study, we designed and synthesized novel synthetic dehydroacetic acid analogues as agonists of odorant receptor 895 (Olfr895) expressed in bladder. Among the synthesized analogues, (E)‐3‐((E)‐1‐hydroxy‐3‐(piperidin‐1‐yl)allylidene)‐6‐methyl‐2H‐pyran‐2,4(3H)‐dione (10) exhibited extremely high agonistic activity for Olfr895 in Dual‐Glo luciferase reporter (EC50=9 nm), Ca2+ imaging, and chemotactic migration assays. Molecular docking and site‐directed mutagenesis studies suggested that a combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions is central to the selective and specific binding of 10 to Olfr895. The design of agonists armed with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic portions could therefore lead to highly potent and selective ligands for ectopic ORs.
Anatomy of the lobula complex in the brain of the praying mantis compared to the lobula complexes of the locust and cockroach
Authors: Rosner Ronny , von Hadeln Joss , Salden Tobias , Homberg Uwe
Published: March 2017

The praying mantis is an insect which relies on vision for capturing prey, avoiding being eaten and for spatial orientation. It is well known for its ability to use stereopsis for estimating the distance of objects. The neuronal substrate mediating visually driven behaviors, however, is not very well investigated. To provide a basis for future functional studies, we analyzed the anatomical organization of visual neuropils in the brain of the praying mantis Hierodula membranacea and provide supporting evidence from a second species, Rhombodera basalis, with particular focus on the lobula complex (LOX). Neuropils were three‐dimensionally reconstructed from synapsin‐immunostained whole mount brains. The neuropil organization and the pattern of γ‐aminobutyric acid immunostaining of the medulla and LOX were compared between the praying mantis and two related polyneopteran species, the Madeira cockroach and the desert locust. The investigated visual neuropils of the praying mantis are highly structured. Unlike in most insects the LOX of the praying mantis consists of five nested neuropils with at least one neuropil not present in the cockroach or locust. Overall, the mantis LOX is more similar to the LOX of the locust than the more closely related cockroach suggesting that the sensory ecology plays a stronger role than the phylogenetic distance of the three species in structuring this center of visual information processing.
Eculizumab Dosing Regimen in Atypical HUS: Possibilities for Individualized Treatment
Authors: Volokhina E , Wijnsma K , van der Molen R , Roeleveld N , van der Velden T , Goertz J , Sweep F , Brüggemann RJ , Wetzels J , van de Kar N , van den Heuvel L
Published: March 2017

Recent studies indicate that eculizumab is often given in excess to atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) patients. Individualization of treatment is thus highly requested; however, data on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of eculizumab remain limited. We analyzed 11 patients during induction (weekly), maintenance (2‐weekly), and tapering (every 3–8 weeks) phases of treatment. The trough eculizumab levels increased with each additional dose during the induction phase (depending on body weight). During maintenance, high eculizumab concentrations of up to 772 μg/mL were observed. The levels decreased with each following dose during tapering (3‐ and 4‐week intervals); however, three patients maintained target eculizumab levels over long time periods (30–48 weeks). At intervals of 6–8 weeks, target eculizumab levels were no longer attained. Serum samples with eculizumab concentrations ≥50 μg/mL showed adequate complement blockade. Our data provide essential insight for optimization of eculizumab dosing schemes and lessening of therapy burden for the patients and cost of the treatment.
Antihyperalgesic Effects of Indomethacin, Ketorolac, and Metamizole in Rats: Effects of Metformin
Authors: Guzmán‐Priego Crystell Guadalupe , Méndez‐Mena Roberto , Baños‐González Manuel Alfonso , Araiza‐Saldaña Claudia Ivonne , Castañeda‐Corral Gabriela , Torres‐López Jorge Elías
Published: March 2017

Preclinical Research

Metformin‐dependent mechanisms have been implicated in the antinociceptive effect of some non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In this study, the effect of local peripheral or systemic administration of metformin on the local peripheral or systemic antinociception induced by indomethacin, ketorolac and metamizole was assessed in the rat carrageenan‐induced thermal hyperalgesia model. Rats were injected with carrageenan (1%, 50 µl) into the right hindpaw which reduced paw withdrawal latency, a measure of thermal hyperalgesia. Local peripheral or systemic administration of indomethacin, ketorolac or metamizole dose‐dependently reduced carrageenan‐induced thermal hyperalgesia. Local peripheral pre‐treatment with metformin (800 µg/paw) partially inhibited the anti‐hyperalgesic effect of indomethacin (200 µg/paw) and metamizole (200 µg/paw), but not that of ketorolac (200 µg/paw). In contrast, systemic pre‐treatment with metformin (200 mg/kg) attenuated the antihyperalgesic effect of metamizole (10 mg/kg), but not that observed with either indomethacin (10 mg/kg) or ketorolac (10 mg/kg). These findings suggest that some but not all NSAIDs have effects mediated by metformin‐dependent mechanisms. Drug Dev Res 78 : 98–104, 2017. ©2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.