bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of gene expression in cynomolgus monkeys with preclinical type II diabetes induced by different high energy diets
Authors: Jin Li‐Sha , Rao Jun‐Hua , Zhang Li‐Biao , Ji Fang , Zhang Yan‐Chun , Hao Xiang‐Fen , Peng Bai‐Lu , Liu Xiao‐Ming , Sun Yun‐Xiao
Published: February 2019

Background

Cynomolgus disease models that are similar to the preclinical stage of human type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were established by feeding middle‐aged cynomolgus monkeys different high energy diets to study the differential expression of diabetes‐related genes.

Methods

A total of 36 male monkeys were randomly divided into four groups and fed human diets with high sugar, high fat, double high sugar and fat, and a normal diet. The preclinical diabetes phase was determined by monitoring the metabolic characteristic indices and the results of oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT). The mRNA expression of 45 diabetes‐related genes in peripheral blood leukocytes was analyzed using real‐time PCR.

Results

A total of 22, 25, and 21 genes were significantly up‐regulated (P < 0.05) and 5, 7, and 5 genes were significantly down‐regulated (P < 0.05) in the above three induced groups, respectively, compared with the control group. Of the 45 tested genes, the expression profiles of 21 genes were consistent. Most of the expression levels in the double high sugar‐and‐fat individuals were slightly lower than those in the high glucose and high fat groups, although the expression patterns of the three groups were essentially similar.

Conclusion

The different high energy diets all induced diabetes and shared some phenotypic properties with human T2DM. Most of the expression patterns of the related genes were identical. The gene expression profiles could be used as references for the study of early diagnostic indicators and T2DM pathogenesis.
Loss of Invisibility in Metamaterials under Thermal Fluctuation Induced Radiation
Authors: Sinha Dhiraj
Published: February 2019

Metamaterials have been extensively investigated for the development of invisibility cloaks; however, the role of nonequilibrium thermal fluctuations in the operation of metamaterial‐based cloaking remains an unexplored avenue. Here, an analytical study on nonequilibrium thermal fluctuations induced charges and currents in metamaterials which generate electromagnetic modes is presented. It is argued that thermally induced charges in metamaterials cannot remain shielded from incoming electromagnetic radiation and excitation of such charges, by incoming electromagnetic waves, can enhance specific modes, whose radiation limits the invisibility effects associated with metamaterial‐based cloaking. The analysis leads to the conclusion that thermodynamic equilibrium is an essential condition of the invisibility of metamaterial‐based cloaking.
Perovskite Oxide Based Electrodes for High‐Performance Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Wei , Xu Meigui , Xu Xiaomin , Zhou Wei , Shao Zongping
Published: February 2019

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is an attractive strategy for the large‐scale production of renewable hydrogen from water. Developing cost‐effective, active and stable semiconducting photoelectrodes is extremely important for achieving PEC water splitting with high solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency. Perovskite oxides as a large family of semiconducting metal oxides are extensively investigated as electrodes in PEC water splitting owing to their abundance, high (photo)electrochemical stability, compositional and structural flexibility allowing the achievement of high electrocatalytic activity, superior sunlight absorption capability and precise control and tuning of band gaps and band edges. In this review, the research progress in the design, development, and application of perovskite oxides in PEC water splitting is summarized, with a special emphasis placed on understanding the relationship between the composition/structure and (photo)electrochemical activity.
Preparation of sorbitol‐based polyurethanes and their semiinterpenetrating polymer networks
Authors: Biswas Atanu , Cheng Huai N. , Kim Sanghoon , Appell Michael , Boddu Veera , Alves Carlucio R. , Furtado Roselayne F.
Published: February 2019

Sorbitol is a useful agro‐based substance that is inexpensive and commercially available. In the interest of adding value to bio‐based raw materials, we have synthesized polyurethanes from sorbitol and toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate (TDI) through both conventional heat and microwave processes. Relative to conventional heat, the microwave process achieved the same reaction at a faster rate, thereby saving time and energy. The nature of the resulting polyurethane products depended on the stoichiometry of the reaction. At increasing TDI levels, a viscous liquid, a soft gel, or a hard thermoset could be obtained. The polymers were fully characterized with 13C‐NMR, Fourier transform infrared, size exclusion chromatography, and thermogravimetric analysis. The polyurethanes obtained near the gel point could be used to make semiinterpenetrating polymer networks (semi‐IPNs) with a second polymer, thereby imparting some of the properties of the second polymer onto the sorbitol‐based polyurethane. For illustration, the sorbitol‐based polyurethane semi‐IPNs were made in combination with poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) and poly(lactic acid). © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47602.
Synthesis and characterization of crosslinked polymers from cottonseed oil
Authors: Wijayapala Rangana , Mishra Satish , Elmore Bill , Freeman Charles , Kundu Santanu
Published: February 2019

Traditional plastics are usually obtained from nonrenewable petroleum feedstocks. In this study, crosslinked polymers were synthesized from cottonseed oil. Unsaturated fatty acids, the major components of cottonseed oils, were initially epoxidized. A network polymer was then formed by crosslinking the epoxidized oil with maleic anhydrate. Mechanical properties of these polymers were altered by varying the amount of maleic anhydrate. These polymers have a tensile modulus of the order 1 MPa and are stable in the acidic and alkaline environment. Our results provide a new synthetic strategy to obtain a network polymer from cottonseed oil. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47655.
Scaled‐Up Inertial Microfluidics: Retention System for Microcarrier‐Based Suspension Cultures
Authors: Moloudi Reza , Oh Steve , Yang Chun , Teo Kim Leng , Lam Alan Tin‐Lun , Ebrahimi Warkiani Majid , Win Naing May
Published: February 2019

Recently, particle concentration and filtration using inertial microfluidics have drawn attention as an alternative to membrane and centrifugal technologies for industrial applications, where the target particle size varies between 1 µm and 500 µm. Inevitably, the bigger particle size (>50 µm) mandates scaling up the channel cross‐section or hydraulic diameter (DH > 0.5 mm). The Dean‐coupled inertial focusing dynamics in spiral microchannels is studied broadly; however, the impacts of secondary flow on particle migration in a scaled‐up spiral channel is not fully elucidated. The mechanism of particle focusing inside scaled‐up rectangular and trapezoidal spiral channels (i.e., 5–10× bigger than conventional microchannels) with an aim to develop a continuous and clog‐free microfiltration system for bioprocessing is studied in detail. Herein, a unique focusing based on inflection point without the aid of sheath flow is reported. This new focusing mechanism, observed in the scaled‐up channels, out‐performs the conventional focusing scenarios in the previously reported trapezoidal and rectangular channels. Finally, as a proof‐of‐concept, the utility of this device is showcased for the first time as a retention system for a cell–microcarrier (MC) suspension culture.
Meta-analysis of clinical trials examining the benefit of structured home exercise in patients with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Golledge J , Singh T P , Alahakoon C , Pinchbeck J , Yip L , Moxon J V , Morris D R
Published: February 2019

Background

Supervised exercise is recommended for the management of peripheral artery disease (PAD); however, the uptake is limited. Structured home exercise programmes may be more feasible, but their effectiveness is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the benefit of structured home exercise programmes for treating PAD in comparison to controls not receiving an exercise programme.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to identify RCTs comparing structured home exercise with controls not receiving an exercise programme among patients with PAD. To be included, studies had to report outcomes from treadmill or corridor walking tests, or objective assessment of physical activity. Inverse variance-weighted meta-analysis was performed to compare changes in maximum walking distance and intermittent claudication onset distance in treadmill tests, walking distance during a 6-min walking test, and physical activity measured using a pedometer or accelerometer. Summarized results are presented in terms of standard deviation differences.

Results

Eleven randomized trials involving 807 patients were included. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 24 months; only one trial included follow-up beyond 12 months. Meta-analyses showed that structured home exercise programmes led to significant improvements in maximum walking distance (mean difference (MD) 0·32, 95 per cent c.i. 0·15 to 0·50; P < 0·001), intermittent claudication onset distance (MD 0·45, 0·27 to 0·62; P < 0·001), walking distance in a 6-min walking test (MD 0·28, 0·09 to 0·47; P = 0·004) and physical activity (MD 0·27, 0·11 to 0·43; P = 0·001).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis suggests that structured home exercise programmes are effective at improving walking performance and physical activity in the short term for patients with PAD.
Long‐term therapeutic effect in nonhuman primate eye from a single injection of anti‐VEGF controlled release hydrogel
Authors: Yu Yu , Lin Xingyan , Wang Qilin , He Mingguang , Chau Ying
Published: February 2019

Wet age‐related macular degeneration (wet‐AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Current treatment of AMD requires monthly intravitreal injection, which is difficult to be implemented in many parts of the world. In recent years, controlled release of anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapeutics has attracted intense research interest aiming to reduce the injection frequency to one or two times per year. In this study, we evaluated the in vivo pharmacokinetics and the long‐term therapeutic efficacy of an in situ hydrogel encapsulating an anti‐VEGF antibody in nonhuman primates. We show that after a single injection of anti‐VEGF controlled release hydrogel, a relatively constant concentration of drug can be maintained in the monkey eye for at least 5 months and the dose was sufficient for the treatment of recurrent choroidal neovascularization induced by repeat laser photocoagulation in monkeys. Our result suggested that when formulated into a controlled release formulation, a single dose of anti‐VEGF may be sufficient for a half‐year treatment and controlled release may be a suitable strategy to reduce the injection frequency in the treatment of AMD in human.
The diagnostic accuracy of circulating free DNA for the detection of KRAS mutation status in colorectal cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Xie Wenli , Xie Li , Song Xianrang
Published: February 2019

KRAS mutations have been reported as a reliable biomarker for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeted therapy and are also associated with poor prognosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. However, limitations of detecting KRAS mutations in tissues are obvious. KRAS mutations in the peripheral blood can be detected as an alternative to tissue analysis. The objective of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate the diagnostic value of cfDNA (circulating free DNA) compared with tissues and to investigate the prognostic potential of cfDNA KRAS mutations in CRC patients. Searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for published studies. We extracted true‐positive (TP), false‐positive (FP), false‐negative (FN), true‐negative (TN) values, survival rate of CRC patients with mutant and wild‐type KRAS and calculated pooled sensitivity and specificity, positive/negative likelihood ratios [PLRs/NLRs], diagnostic odds ratios [DORs], and corresponding 95% confidence intervals [95% CIs]. We also generated a summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve to evaluate the overall diagnostic potential. Totally, 31 relevant studies were recruited and used for the meta‐analysis on the efficacy of cfDNA testing in detecting KRAS mutations. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, and DOR were 0.637 (95% CI: 0.607‐0.666), 0.943 (95% CI: 0.930‐0.954), 10.024 (95% CI: 6.912‐14.535), 0.347 (95% CI: 0.269‐0.447), and 37.882 (95% CI: 22.473‐63.857), respectively. The area under the SROC curve was 0.9392. Together, the results suggest that detecting KRAS mutations in cfDNA has adequate diagnostic efficacy in terms of specificity. There is a promising role for cfDNA in the detection of KRAS mutations in CRC patients. However, prospective studies with larger patient cohorts are still required before definitive conclusions of the prognostic potential of cfDNA KRAS mutations in CRC patients were drawn.
Expression of SNAIL in accompanying PanIN is a key prognostic indicator in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas
Authors: Fujiwara Sho , Saiki Yuriko , Ishizawa Kota , Fukushige Shinichi , Yamanaka Mie , Sato Masaki , Ishida Masaharu , Motoi Fuyuhiko , Unno Michiaki , Horii Akira
Published: February 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most lethal cancer, mainly because of its invasive and metastatic characteristics. Pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) is one of the major precursor lesions of PDAC. Although epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is known to play an important role for these malignant behaviors, the association between PanIN and EMT has not been clearly understood. Therefore, we explored possible molecules for regulation of EMT immunohistochemically. Using surgically resected specimens from 71 PDAC patients, expressions of SNAIL, SLUG, TWIST1, and ZEB1 were investigated in high‐grade PanIN (HG‐PanIN) and PDAC. Results demonstrated that PDAC accompanied by SNAIL‐positive HG‐PanIN showed a significantly better relapse‐free survival (RFS) (median survival time (MST) of 11.3 months vs 4.4 months, P < 0.001) and overall survival overall survival (OS) (MST of 25.2 months vs 13.6 months, P < 0.001). In PDAC accompanied by SLUG‐positive HG‐PanIN, RFS and OS (P = 0.09 and P = 0.05) tended to have a better prognosis. In contrast, we could not find any significant prognostic benefits in the expression of TWIST1 or ZEB1 in PDAC accompanied by HG‐PanIN. Our present results suggest that (1) EMT may play an important role in the development of PDAC from HG‐PanIN, and (2) SNAIL may predict a distinct subgroup that shows a better prognosis.
Dysregulation, functional implications, and prognostic ability of the circadian clock across cancers
Authors: Liu Zekun , Yu Kai , Zheng Jian , Lin Huan , Zhao Qi , Zhang Xiaolong , Feng Weiyi , Wang Liyu , Xu Jianjun , Xie Dawei , Zuo Zhi‐Xiang , Liu Ze‐Xian , Zheng Qichang
Published: February 2019

It has been proposed that the circadian rhythm generally plays important roles in tumor suppression, but there is also evidence that disruption of the canonical circadian pathway has anticancer effects. In this study, we systematically analyzed the aberrances of circadian clock genes across cancers based on data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). These data showed that the frequencies of mutations and copy number alterations in core clock genes (PER1/2/3, CLOCK, CRY1/2, and ARNTL) were low, but that the expression levels of core clock genes were downregulated by the higher levels of DNA methylation in most tumors. The circadian clock index (CCI) was established through a principal component analysis, and this measure well represents the overall expression of the core clock genes. In fact, the CCI was significantly lower in hepatocellular carcinoma with HBV infection than in other cancers. Furthermore, pathways such as the MAPK, JAK‐STAT, and immune‐related signaling pathways were enriched in tumors with high CCI values. Interestingly, the CCI was generally positively related to the immunophenoscores and immunophenotypes of tumors. Additionally, the expression levels of core clock genes and the CCI were also generally positively related to survival across cancers. Taken together, the results of this study provide a comprehensive analysis of circadian clock aberrances in cancer, and the results should aid further investigations of the molecular mechanisms of cancer and the development of therapeutic strategies.
Synthesis and Activity Evaluation of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Inhibitors Based on 6‐(Pyrimidin‐4‐yl)‐1H‐indazole
Authors: Liao Bohong , Peng Lingrong , Zhou Jin , Mo Huiting , Zhao Jialan , Yang Zike , Guo Xiaowen , Zhang Peiquan , Zhang Xin , Zhu Zhibo
Published: February 2019

Human nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a common head and neck malignancy with high incidence in Southeast Asia and Southern China. It is necessary to develop safe, effective and inexpensive anticancer agents to improve the therapeutics of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. A series of small molecular compounds based on 6‐(pyrimidin‐4‐yl)‐1H‐indazole were synthesized and evaluated for antiproliferative activities against human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines SUNE1. Compounds 6b, 6c, 6e and 6l showed potent antiproliferative activities similar to positive control drug cisplatin in vitro with lower nephrotoxicity than it. N‐[4‐(1H‐Indazol‐6‐yl)pyrimidin‐2‐yl]benzene‐1,3‐diamine (6l) was selected for further study. It was found that 6l induced mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis and G2/M phase arrest in SUNE1 cells. Furthermore, compound 6l at 10 mg/kg can suppress the growth of an implanted SUNE1 xenograft with a TGI% (tumor growth inhibition) value of 50 % and did not cause serious side effects in BALB/c nude mice. This study suggests that 6‐(pyrimidin‐4‐yl)‐1H‐indazole derivatives are a series of small molecule compounds with anti‐nasopharyngeal carcinoma activities.
Adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells and keratinocytes co‐culture on gelatin/chitosan/β‐glycerol phosphate nanoscaffold in skin regeneration
Authors: Lotfi Marzieh , Naderi‐Meshkin Hojjat , Mahdipour Elahe , Mafinezhad Asghar , Bagherzadeh Roohollah , Sadeghnia Hamid Reza , Esmaily Habibollah , Maleki Masoud , Hasssanzadeh Halimeh , Ghayaour‐Mobarhan Majid , Bidkhori Hamid Reza , Bahrami Ahmad Reza
Published: February 2019

Using cell‐based engineered skin is an emerging strategy for treating difficult‐to‐heal wounds. To date, much endeavor has been devoted to the fabrication of appropriate scaffolds with suitable biomechanical properties to support cell viability and growth in the microenvironment of a wound. The aim of this research was to assess the impact of adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD‐MSCs) and keratinocytes on gelatin/chitosan/β‐glycerol phosphate (GCGP) nanoscaffold in full‐thickness excisional skin wound healing of rats. For this purpose, AD‐MSCs and keratinocytes were isolated from rats and GCGP nanoscaffolds were electrospun. Through an in vivo study, the percentage of wound closure was assessed on days 7, 14, and 21 after wound induction. Samples were taken from the wound sites in order to evaluate the density of collagen fibers and vessels at 7 and 14 days. Moreover, sampling was done on days 7 and 14 from wound sites to assess the density of collagen fibers and vessels. The wound closure rate was significantly increased in the keratinocytes‐AD‐MSCs‐scaffold (KMS) group compared with other groups. The expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor, collagen type 1, and CD34 were also significantly higher in the KMS group compared with the other groups. These results suggest that the combination of AD‐MSCs and keratinocytes seeded onto GCGP nanoscaffold provides a promising treatment for wound healing.
Novel predictors of late lumen enlargement in distal reference segments after successful recanalization of coronary chronic total occlusion
Authors: Okuya Yoshiyuki , Saito Yuichi , Takahashi Takefumi , Kishi Koichi , Hiasa Yoshikazu
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Although successful recanalization of coronary chronic total occlusion (CTO) can induce subsequent positive vascular remodeling in the distal segment, the predictors are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent and predictors related to luminal gain after successful CTO recanalization.

Methods

A total of 134 patients who underwent intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)‐guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for CTO and follow‐up angiography were included. Angiographic parameters were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively at baseline and follow‐up. Gray‐scale IVUS images during the PCI procedure were also analyzed. Lumen diameter (LD) at distal reference on the post‐PCI angiogram was compared with corresponding LD at follow‐up coronary angiography.

Results

At the mean follow‐up of 10.0 ± 2.7 months, LD at distal reference was significantly increased by 15.9% from baseline to follow‐up (2.06 ± 0.62 vs. 2.30 ± 0.55 mm, p < 0.001). Univariable analysis indicated that the left anterior descending artery (LAD), no moderate or severe calcification, presence of peri‐medial high‐echoic band on IVUS, and impairment of final coronary flow and small distal reference diameter at baseline were associated with greater late lumen enlargement. Multivariable analysis showed the LAD, no moderate or severe calcification, and small LD at distal reference as independent predictors of greater late lumen enlargement.

Conclusion

The segment distal to recanalized CTO showed significant late lumen enlargement, especially in the cases with small distal reference, in the LAD, and without moderate or severe calcification.
Left ventricular geometry predicts optimal response to percutaneous mitral repair via MitraClip: Integrated assessment by two‐ and three‐dimensional echocardiography
Authors: Kim Jiwon , Alakbarli Javid , Palumbo Maria Chiara , Xie Lola X. , Rong Lisa Q. , Tehrani Nathan H. , Brouwer Lillian R. , Devereux Richard B. , Wong Shing Chiu , Bergman Geoffrey W. , Khalique Omar K. , Levine Robert A. , Ratcliffe Mark B. , Weinsaft Jonathan W.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To assess impact of left ventricular (LV) chamber remodeling on MitraClip (MClp) response.

Background

MitraClip is the sole percutaneous therapy approved for mitral regurgitation (MR) but response varies. LV dilation affects mitral coaptation; determinants of MClp response are uncertain.

Methods

LV and mitral geometry were quantified on pre‐ and post‐procedure two‐dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and intra‐procedural three‐dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Optimal MClp response was defined as ≤mild MR at early (1–6 month) follow‐up.

Results

Sixty‐seven degenerative MR patients underwent MClp: Whereas MR decreased ≥1 grade in 94%, 39% of patients had optimal response (≤mild MR). Responders had smaller pre‐procedural LV end‐diastolic volume (94 ± 24 vs. 109 ± 25 mL/m2, p = 0.02), paralleling smaller annular diameter (3.1 ± 0.4 vs. 3.5 ± 0.5 cm, p = 0.002), and inter‐papillary distance (2.2 ± 0.7 vs. 2.5 ± 0.6 cm, p = 0.04). 3D TEE‐derived annular area correlated with 2D TTE (r = 0.59, p < 0.001) and was smaller among optimal responders (12.8 ± 2.1 cm2 vs. 16.8 ± 4.4 cm2, p = 0.001). Both 2D and 3D mitral annular size yielded good diagnostic performance for optimal MClp response (AUC 0.73–0.84, p < 0.01). In multivariate analysis, sub‐optimal MClp response was associated with LV end‐diastolic diameter (OR 3.10 per‐cm [1.26–7.62], p = 0.01) independent of LA size (1.10 per‐cm2 [1.02–1.19], p = 0.01); substitution of mitral annular diameter for LV size yielded an independent association with MClp response (4.06 per‐cm2 [1.03–15.96], p = 0.045).

Conclusions

Among degenerative MR patients undergoing MClp, LV and mitral annular dilation augment risk for residual or recurrent MR, supporting the concept that MClp therapeutic response is linked to sub‐valvular remodeling.
Hemodynamic and clinical response to transseptal mitral valve‐in‐valve and valve‐in‐ring
Authors: Lloyd James W. , Joseph Timothy A. , Cabalka Allison K. , Guerrero Mayra , Rihal Charanjit S. , Eleid Mackram F.
Published: February 2019

Objective

To understand the clinical and hemodynamic response of patients with stenotic versus regurgitant prosthetic mitral valve degeneration to transseptal transcatheter mitral valve‐in‐ring/‐valve replacement (TMVR).

Background

Patients with prosthetic mitral valve repair/replacement failure frequently present high‐risk surgical challenges. TMVR has been employed as an alternative to surgery.

Methods

Forty‐four patients with stenotic/regurgitant degeneration of prior prosthetic mitral annuloplasty and replacement (38) underwent mitral TMVR. Clinical, echocardiographic, and invasive hemodynamic monitoring was conducted at baseline and follow‐up.

Results

Relative to patients with regurgitant degeneration (28), patients with stenotic degeneration had baseline higher mitral valve gradients (12 ± 4 vs. 7 ± 3 mmHg, p < 0.01) and smaller areas (1.0 ± 0.4 vs. 1.5 ± 0.4 cm2, p = 0.01). TMVR yielded significant reduction in left atrial v‐wave pressures in stenotic and regurgitant cohorts (−7 ± 11, p = 0.03, and −11 ± 12 mmHg, p < 0.01, respectively) and significant, sustained symptomatic improvement. Intracardiac pressures overall, including left ventricular end diastolic pressures, remained elevated.

Conclusion

Despite baseline differences in valvular disease, TMVR leads to significant hemodynamic and clinical improvement in both stenotic and regurgitant prosthetic mitral valve disease. In both cohorts, TMVR reduced intracardiac pressures to similar postprocedural levels, but pressures remained supranormal. This outcome suggests a multifactorial process defines the pathophysiology of patients undergoing TMVR, including contributions from prosthetic degeneration, changes in left atrial compliance, and diastolic dysfunction, and highlights the need to consider such factors in patient evaluation and treatment.
Recent Advances in the Catalytic Production of Platform Chemicals from Holocellulosic Biomass
Authors: Gómez Millán Gerardo , Hellsten Sanna , Llorca Jordi , Luque Rafael , Sixta Herbert , Balu Alina M.
Published: February 2019

This Review discusses novel catalytic pathways of lignocellulosic biomass to value‐added chemicals including biomass‐derived sugar alcohols, organic acids, furans and biohydrocarbons. These production approaches are undertaken by biological, chemical and thermochemical transformations or a combination of them. Nevertheless, the majority of research in this area is focused on the design of heterogeneous catalysts to convert value‐added products from holocellulosic biomass. Biorefineries represent the peak of biomass processes in order to produce valuable chemicals and liquid fuels avoiding the utilization of corroding and toxic elements. The aim of the present Review is to offer the readers a broad overview of recent holocellulosic‐based chemical and fuels production technologies via heterogeneous catalysis. There is also an overview of the economic aspects to efficiently produce these platform chemicals at industrial scale. To summarize this Review, an outlook and conclusions of the reported processes to date is provided.
Quaternäre Metall/Metalloxid‐Katalysatoren als Wandkatalysatoren in Mikroreaktoren für Power‐to‐Gas‐Applikationen mittels kombinatorischer Hochdurchsatzmethoden
Authors: Pfeifer Mirko , Schwarz Thomas , Stöwe Klaus
Published: February 2019

Zur Untersuchung des Sabatier‐Prozesses werden quaternäre Katalysatoren synthetisiert und getestet. Die Synthesen erfolgen durch Imprägnierung und Sol‐Gel. Das Screening der Katalysatoren erfolgt bei Temperaturen zwischen 520 und 670 K, Drücken von 15 bzw. 30 bar, einem H2/CO2‐Verhältnis von 4:1 und wird in einem speziell dafür konstruierten 10‐fach‐Parallel‐Gasphasen‐Strömungsreaktor im sequentiellen Betriebsmodus durchgeführt. Die Katalysatoren werden auf Mikrospaltplatten beschichtet und für das Screening in den Reaktor eingeführt. Die Analyse der Gasphasenzusammensetzung erfolgt mittels GC‐FID.
Operando Analysis of Reactant Conversion and Material Stability in Next‐Generation Batteries
Authors: Stock Daniel , Pompe Constantin , Schröder Daniel
Published: February 2019

Latest advances on operando analysis in the field of next‐generation battery research are highlighted by means of three examples: recording the pressure change and performing X‐ray diffraction analysis of metal‐oxygen batteries allows to gain detailed understanding of the main reactions and side reactions; analyzing a solid electrolyte in a hot‐press setup allows to monitor crystallization and stability during its synthesis. Since batteries are (electro)chemical reactors, the benefit of using the introduced operando techniques for classical reaction engineering is highlighted thereof.
The tactics of ship collision avoidance based on Quantum‐behaved Wolf Pack Algorithm
Authors: Liu Hongdan , Sun Rong , Liu Qi
Published: February 2019

To ensure the navigational safety of ships in the sea and reduce human errors, a set of navigational information systems with decision support function is developed. Fast and stable collision avoidance actions are also adopted according to the ship risk level and encounter situation. Therefore, the ship automation collision avoidance tactics based on Quantum‐behaved Wolf Pack Algorithm (QWPA) is proposed complied to COLREG in this paper, and then feasibility and effectiveness of which have been positively verified in laboratory conditions based on the three‐degree‐of‐freedom ship mathematical model; compared with existing collision avoidance scheme, the quality and generating speed of the collision avoidance strategy are enhanced greatly under different ship encounter situation.
Analysis of Neuro‐Neuronal Synapses Using Embryonic Chick Ciliary Ganglion via Single‐Axon Tracing, Electrophysiology, and Optogenetic Techniques
Authors: Egawa Ryo , Yawo Hiromu
Published: February 2019

The calyx‐type synapse is a giant synaptic structure in which a presynaptic terminal wraps around a postsynaptic neuron in a one‐to‐one manner. It has been used for decades as an experimental model system of the synapse due to its simplicity and high accessibility in physiological recording methods. In particular, the calyx of the embryonic chick ciliary ganglion (CG) has enormous potential for synapse science because more flexible genetic manipulations are available compared with other synapses. Here, we describe methods to study presynaptic morphology, physiology, and development using CGs and cutting‐edge molecular tools. We outline step‐by‐step protocols for presynaptic gene manipulation using in ovo electroporation, preparation of isolated CGs, 3‐D imaging for single‐axon tracing in transparent CGs, electrophysiology of the presynaptic terminal, and an all‐optical approach using optogenetic molecular reagents. These methods will facilitate studies of the synapse and neuronal circuits in the future. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Implications of shared predation for space use in two sympatric leporids
Authors: Weterings Martijn J. A. , Ewert Sophie P. , Peereboom Jeffrey N. , Kuipers Henry J. , Kuijper Dries P. J. , Prins Herbert H. T. , Jansen Patrick A. , van Langevelde Frank , van Wieren Sipke E.
Published: February 2019

Spatial variation in habitat riskiness has a major influence on the predator–prey space race. However, the outcome of this race can be modulated if prey shares enemies with fellow prey (i.e., another prey species). Sharing of natural enemies may result in apparent competition, and its implications for prey space use remain poorly studied. Our objective was to test how prey species spend time among habitats that differ in riskiness, and how shared predation modulates the space use by prey species. We studied a one‐predator, two‐prey system in a coastal dune landscape in the Netherlands with the European hare (Lepus europaeus) and European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) as sympatric prey species and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) as their main predator. The fine‐scale space use by each species was quantified using camera traps. We quantified residence time as an index of space use. Hares and rabbits spent time differently among habitats that differ in riskiness. Space use by predators and habitat riskiness affected space use by hares more strongly than space use by rabbits. Residence time of hare was shorter in habitats in which the predator was efficient in searching or capturing prey species. However, hares spent more time in edge habitat when foxes were present, even though foxes are considered ambush predators. Shared predation affected the predator–prey space race for hares positively, and more strongly than the predator–prey space race for rabbits, which were not affected. Shared predation reversed the predator–prey space race between foxes and hares, whereas shared predation possibly also released a negative association and promoted a positive association between our two sympatric prey species. Habitat riskiness, species presence, and prey species’ escape mode and foraging mode (i.e., central‐place vs. noncentral‐place forager) affected the prey space race under shared predation.
Contribution of metal vapor mass at periphery part of pulsed arc to electromagnetic force in weld pool
Authors: Tanaka Tatsuro , Maeda Yoshifumi , Yamamoto Shinji , Iwao Toru
Published: February 2019

The arc welding has been used in various welding methods because it is inexpensive and high in strength after welding. However, it is a problem that accidents such as collapse of the bridge occur because of the welding defects. The welding of low cost and high productivity is required without the welding defects. The pulsed TIG welding is inexpensive and capable of high‐quality welding. The electromagnetic force contributing to penetration changes because the transient response of arc temperature and iron vapor generated from anode occurs. However, the analysis of pulsed TIG welding with metal vapor has been elucidated only metal vapor concentration near anode with transient phenomenon and heat flux. Thus, the theoretical elucidation of penetration depth with control factor has not been researched. In this paper, the contribution of metal vapor mass at the periphery part of pulsed arc to the electromagnetic force in the weld pool is elucidated. As a result, the iron vapor mass at periphery part decreased with increasing the frequency. The iron vapor was stagnated at axial center within one cycle. The electromagnetic force to the penetration depth direction in weld pool increased at axial center. Therefore, the metal vapor mass at periphery part plays an important role for the electromagnetic force increment at axial center.
From citizen participation to government participation: An exploration of the roles of local governments in community initiatives for climate change adaptation in the Netherlands
Authors: Mees Heleen L.P. , Uittenbroek Caroline J. , Hegger Dries L.T. , Driessen Peter P.J.
Published: February 2019

Citizens' initiatives for climate action are actively encouraged by governments to enhance the resilience of communities to climate change. This increased responsibilisation of citizens has implications for the roles of governments. The degree of government involvement does not necessarily decline, but government roles may need to shift: from a regulating and steering government towards a more collaborative and responsive government that enables and facilitates community initiatives that are self‐governed by citizens. However, we lack a conceptual understanding of such new government roles, as well as empirical insights into how local governments participate in citizens' initiatives and how they take up such new roles. In this paper, a “ladder of government participation” is introduced, which is used to explore the roles of local governments in citizens' initiatives for climate change adaptation in the Netherlands. The results show that local governments are slowly but gradually shifting towards more networking, stimulating, and facilitating roles. Key concerns of local practitioners are (a) a lack of flexibility and support of their own municipal organisation to facilitate citizens' initiatives, (b) uncertainty about the continuity of citizens' initiatives over time, and (c) a potential increase of inequity among citizen groups resulting from facilitating citizens' initiatives. An important finding is that the roles of local governments tend to be flexible, in that they can move from one role to the other over time for one and the same citizens' initiative depending on its stage of development, as well as take up several roles simultaneously for different citizens' initiatives.
A Novel Ferrocene‐Backboned Unsymmetrical Pincer‐Type Proligand and Its Organotin Derivatives
Authors: Gawron Matthias , Nayyar Bastian , Krabbe Christina , Lutter Michael , Jurkschat Klaus
Published: February 2019

In this contribution we report the synthesis of the novel unsymmetrical ferrocene‐based pincer‐type proligand η5‐CpFeη5‐C5H2‐1‐Br‐2‐PPh2‐5‐CH2NMe2 (1). Its reactivity is demonstrated by isolation of related organotin derivatives η5‐CpFeη5‐C5H2‐1‐SnR3‐2‐PPh2‐5‐CH2NMe2 (3, R = Ph; 4, R = Me). The reactions of compounds 3 and 4 with H2O2 and elemental sulfur gave the corresponding ferrocenylphosphane oxide (5) and the sulfides (6, 7), respectively. Most remarkably, an unprecedented reaction of the organotin derivative 3 with elemental iodine was observed, providing the ammonium salt [η5‐CpFeη5‐C5H2‐1‐SnPh2I‐2‐P(O)Ph2‐5‐CH2NHMe2]I (8). The compounds are characterized by elemental analyses, 1H, 13C, 31P, 119Sn NMR spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses (3–8). Also reported are the solid‐state structures of the hydrolysis products [η5‐CpFeη5‐C5H2‐1‐SnPh2(OH)‐2‐P(O)Ph2‐5‐CH2NHMe2]·0.5H2O (9a) and [η5‐CpFeη5‐C5H2‐1‐SnPh(OH)‐2‐P(O)Ph2‐5‐CH2NMe2]2[I3]2 (9b) that were isolated by serendipity.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Thiazole‐Derived α‐Perfluoroalkylated 5–7‐Membered Amines
Authors: Voznesenskaia Natalia G. , Shmatova Olga I. , Ilyin Mikhail M. , Ilyin Mikhail M. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: February 2019

Enantioselective synthesis of thiazole‐containing α‐perfluoroalkylated cyclic amines was elaborated. Organocatalytic Strecker reaction with 5–7 membered cyclic ketimines was used as a key step of sequence. The prepared chiral amino nitriles bearing CF3‐ or C2F5‐group in the alpha position were transformed into the corresponding chiral thioamides by the reaction with hydrogen sulfide. Subsequent reaction with alpha bromo‐ or chloro‐substituted carbonyls allowed obtaining perfluoroalkylated analogues of natural thiazole‐containing cyclic amines in high isolated yield and up to > 99 % ee.
Macroinvertebrate Responses to Conductivity in Different Bioregions of Victoria, Australia
Authors: Shackleton Michael , Holland Aleicia , Stitz Leigh , McInerney Paul
Published: February 2019

The use of field data to derive guideline water quality trigger values is likely to be more environmentally relevant than laboratory estimates. In the present study, macroinvertebrate responses to conductivity (specific conductance at 25 °C) within 5 bioregions in Victoria, Australia, were derived from 19 yr of macroinvertebrate field data. Varying response to electrical conductivity (EC) occurred among taxa. Ninety-five percent extirpation concentrations (XC95) for EC were calculated for each genus and species and ranged from 25 to 23 600 µS/cm. Hazardous concentration 5th percentiles (HC05) were calculated for each bioregion from species sensitivity distributions developed using genus and species XC95 values. Genus HC05 values varied substantially between bioregions: bioregion 1 (29 µS/cm), 2 (78 µS/cm), 3 (143 µS/cm), 4 (1068 µS/cm), and 5 (2226 µS/cm). No substantial differences in HC05 values were shown between genus- and species-level calculations in bioregions 1 to 3 and 5; however, a decrease of approximately 300 µS/cm was shown for bioregion 4. The substantial differences in HC05 values between bioregions supports the need for region-specific determination of effects of EC. We explore the use of HC05 values as water quality guidelines across a bioregion gradient and provide a comprehensive analysis of macroinvertebrate responses to changes in EC, with important implications for waterway management. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:1334–1342. © 2019 SETAC
Flame retardant finishing of the polyester/cotton blend fabric using a cross‐linkable hydroxy‐functional organophosphorus oligomer
Authors: Yang Charles Q. , Chen Qin
Published: February 2019

Blend fabrics of cotton and polyester are widely used in apparel, but high flammability becomes a major obstacle for applications of those fabrics in fire protective clothing. The objective of this research was to investigate the flame retardant finishing of a 50/50 polyester/cotton blend fabric. It was discovered previously thatN,N′‐dimethyloldihydroxyethyleneurea (DMDHEU) was able to bond a hydroxy‐functional organophosphorus oligomer (HFPO) onto 50/50 nylon/cotton blend fabrics. In this research, the HFPO/DMDHEU system was applied to a 50/50 polyester/cotton twill fabric. The polyester/cotton fabric treated with 36% HFPO and 10% DMDHEU achieved char length of 165 mm after 20 laundering cycles. The laundering durability of the treated fabric was attributed to the formation of polymeric cross‐linked networks. The HFPO/DMDHEU system significantly reduced peak heat release rate (PHRR) of cotton on the treated polyester/cotton blend fabric, but its effects on polyester were marginal. HFPO/DMDHEU reduced PHRR of both nylon and cotton on the treated nylon/cotton fabric. It was also discovered that the nitrogen of DMDHEU was synergistic to enhance the flame retardant performance of HFPO on the polyester/cotton fabric.
A near‐haploid clone harboring a BCR/ABL1 gene fusion in an adult patient with newly diagnosed B‐lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Peterson Jess F. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Huang Li , Finn Laura E. , Shi Min , Hoppman Nicole L. , Greipp Patricia T. , Baughn Linda B.
Published: February 2019

The detection of recurrent genetic abnormalities in B‐lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) is critical for risk stratification and therapy‐related decisions. Near‐haploidy (24‐30 chromosomes), a subgroup of hypodiploidy (<46 chromosomes), and BCR/ABL1 gene fusions are both recurrent genetic abnormalities in B‐ALL and are considered adverse prognostic findings, although outcomes in BCR/ABL1‐positive patients have improved with tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. While near‐haploid clones are primarily observed in children and rarely harbor structural abnormalities, BCR/ABL1‐positive B‐ALL is primarily observed in adults. Importantly, recurrent genetic abnormalities are considered mutually exclusive and rarely exist within the same neoplastic clone. We report only the second case to our knowledge of a near‐haploid clone that harbors a BCR/ABL1 fusion in an adult with newly diagnosed B‐ALL. Conventional chromosome studies revealed a near‐haploid clone (27 chromosomes) along with a der(22)t(9;22)(q34.1;q11.2) in 17 of 20 metaphases analyzed. Our B‐ALL fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) panel confirmed the BCR/ABL1 fusion and monosomies consistent with chromosome studies in approximately 95% of interphase nuclei. Moreover, no evidence of a “doubled” near‐haploid clone was observed by chromosome or FISH studies. This highly unusual case illustrates that while rare, recurrent genetic abnormalities in B‐ALL can exist within the same neoplastic clone.
The Spectrum of Hepatic Involvement in Patients With Telomere Disease
Authors: Kapuria Devika , Ben‐Yakov Gil , Ortolano Rebecca , Cho Min Ho , Kalchiem‐Dekel Or , Takyar Varun , Lingala Shilpa , Gara Naveen , Tana Michele , Kim Yun Ju , Kleiner David E. , Young Neal S. , Townsley Danielle M. , Koh Christopher , Heller Theo
Published: February 2019

Loss‐of‐function mutations in genes that encode for components of the telomere repair complex cause accelerated telomere shortening. Hepatic involvement has been recognized as a cause of morbidity in telomere diseases, but very few studies have characterized the nature and extent of liver involvement in affected patients. We report the prevalence and characteristics of liver involvement in a large cohort of patients with telomere disease evaluated serially at the National Institutes of Health. One hundred twenty‐one patients with known or suspected telomere disease were screened; 40 patients with liver involvement were included in the current study. Median follow‐up was 2.4 years. Data were collected regarding their demographic information, laboratory analysis, imaging, and histopathology. Forty patients (40% of the cohort) with a median age of 42 years were found to have liver involvement. Liver enzyme elevation was cholestatic in pattern; 8 (21%) had drug‐related enzyme elevations. The most common imaging finding was increased hepatic echogenicity on ultrasound in 39% (9) of patients, followed by hepatomegaly in 26% (6). Biopsies were infrequent because of risk associated with thrombocytopenia, but in 6 patients, there were varying findings: nodular regenerative hyperplasia, steatohepatitis, hemosiderosis, cholestasis, and cirrhosis with hepatic steatosis. Almost half the cohort had pulmonary diffusion abnormalities, and 25% died during the follow‐up period. Conclusion: In patients with telomere disease, hepatic involvement is common and can present in diverse ways, including elevated liver enzymes as well as histopathologic and imaging abnormalities. Liver disease has important implications for morbidity and mortality in patients with telomere disease.
Modelling the interaction of climate, forest ecosystem, and hydrology to estimate catchment dissolved organic carbon export
Authors: Son Kyongho , Lin Laurence , Band Lawrence , Owens Emmet M.
Published: February 2019

The potential for increased loads of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in streams and rivers is a concern for regulating the water quality in water supply watersheds. With increasing hydroclimatic variability related to global warming and shifts in forest ecosystem community and structure, understanding and predicting the magnitude and variability of watershed supply and transport of DOC over multiple time scales have become important research and management goals. In this study, we use a distributed process‐based ecohydrological model (Regional Hydro‐Ecological Simulation System [RHESSys]) to explore controls and predict streamflow DOC loads in Biscuit Brook. Biscuit Brook is a forested headwater catchment of the Neversink Reservoir, part of the New York City water supply system in the Catskill Mountains. Three different model structures of RHESSys were proposed to explore and evaluate hypotheses addressing how vegetation phenology and hydrologic connectivity between deep groundwater and riparian zones influence streamflow and DOC loads. Model results showed that incorporating dynamic phenology improved model agreement with measured streamflow in spring, summer, and fall and fall DOC concentration, compared with a static phenology. Additionally, the connectivity of deep groundwater flux through riparian zones with dynamic phenology improved streamflow and DOC flux in low flow conditions. Therefore, this study suggests the importance of inter‐annual vegetation phenology and the connectivity of deep groundwater drainage through riparian zones in the hydrology and stream DOC loading in this forested watershed and the ability of process‐based ecohydrological models to simulate these dynamics. The advantage of a process‐based modelling approach is specifically seen in the sensitivity to forest ecosystem dynamics and the interactions of hydroclimate variability with ecosystem processes controlling the supply and distribution of DOC. These models will be useful to evaluate different forest management approaches toward mitigating water quality concerns.