bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the Weight of the Eggs of Flesh Roux and Kuroiler Breeding Hens on Their Hatching in an Incubator
Authors: Soronikpoho SORO , Parfait KOUADIO Kouakou , Jean-Baptiste AMAN
Published: October 2024

To contribute to the development of poultry farming in Ivory Coast, a study was carried out in the Lakes Region, precisely in Yamoussoukro. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of egg weight on their hatching. To do this, Kuroiler (29 females and 6 males) and Chair Roux (29 females and 6 males) breeders aged 6 to 7 months were used. After rearing, 483 eggs including 230 Chair Roux eggs and 253 Kuroiler eggs were collected over twenty-one days. After identification and determination of their weight, the eggs were classified into three categories (Small eggs from 35 to 45g), Medium eggs from 46 to 55g) and Large eggs from 56 to 65g) and incubated in three incubators (Incubator 1, Incubator 2 and Incubator 3). In each incubator, the incubation performance was determined. The results showed that the average egg rate was higher (66.52% for Chair Roux eggs and 66.79% for Kuroiler eggs). Large eggs showed the highest fertility rate (95.92% for Chair Roux strain eggs, and 97.44% for Kuroiler strain eggs), followed by medium eggs (90.85% for eggs of the Chair Roux strain and 91.72% for eggs of the Kuroiler strain). In terms of the embryonic mortality rate, it was the small eggs which presented the highest rates with 17.85% for eggs of the Chair Roux strain and 26.66% for those of the Kuroiler strain. As for the actual hatching rate, large eggs recorded the highest rates (82.97% for Chair Roux eggs and 76.31% for Kuroiler strain eggs) followed by medium eggs (77.85% for Chair Roux strain eggs and 76.28% for Kuroiler strain eggs). Apart from Incubator 3 which recorded a higher embryonic mortality rate for large eggs (15.38%), Incubator 1 and Incubator 2 recorded higher rates for small eggs with respectively 11. 76% and 37.5%. In terms of the actual hatching rate, large eggs recorded the highest rates with 87.5% at Incubator 1 and 83.33%. Thus, it appears that large eggs and medium eggs are indicated to obtain a better hatching rate.
Nano Management Techniques for Soil Reclamation
Authors: Prabha V.Vijay , Jayanthi M. , A.Venkateshwar
Published: October 2024

The application of nano-scale management strategies for soil remediation presents a promising avenue for tackling soil salinity issues and bolstering agricultural sustainability. Nano-sized materials like gypsum, biochar, sulphur, and zinc offer novel solutions by capitalizing on their distinct properties to alleviate soil stressors and bolster soil vitality. These nano materials demonstrate heightened reactivity, mobility, and efficacy compared to traditional alternatives, facilitating precise delivery and enduring effects on soil characteristics and crop performance. Through targeted ion displacement, soil structure enhancement, and improved nutrient accessibility, nano management approaches play a pivotal role in rehabilitating saline and sodic soils, thereby fostering agricultural resilience in adverse environmental conditions. Moreover, the integration of nano technologies in farming practices holds considerable promise for advancing precision agriculture, optimizing resource utilization, and mitigating ecological concerns associated with conventional farming methods. As research in this domain advances, ongoing exploration and refinement of nano management techniques are imperative to ensure their effectiveness, safety, and long-term sustainability, thereby contributing to the establishment of robust and productive agricultural systems.
Comprehensive Review on Valuation Method for Bill of Quantities in Prefabricated Shear Wall Structures Using BIM
Authors: Li HuiYu
Published: October 2024

Prefabricated shear wall structure is widely used, it can not only meet the structural performance needs of buildings, but also greatly improve the construction efficiency of buildings. The bill of quantities valuation model has important theoretical and practical significance for optimizing the cost control of prefabricated shear wall structure and improving the efficiency of project management. From the perspective of combining theory and practice, this paper explores the bill of quantity valuation method of assembled shear wall structure under BIM environment, integrates BIM technology and SQL Sever database technology, and extracts the attribute information of model components through the secondary development of Revit with the data platform provided by BIM. The construction of bill of quantities is realized according to the specification of bill of quantities, and the association between bill of quantities and model components is established to realize the visual traceability query of bill of quantities, which provides a BIM technology-based construction engineering measurement and valuation technology and method, hoping to provide a new perspective and theoretical basis for related fields.
Development of ExG, ExR, ExGR, HSV, CIELAB Images from RGB Images Using Image Segmentation Algorithm in Computer Vision Based Herbicide Spraying Applications
Authors: Rao Koduru Koteswara , B Raj Kiran , Rao Srinivasa , K Lavanya
Published: October 2024

Weed management in agriculture is critical for preventing crop yield losses, with traditional methods often leading to environmental harm and increased production costs. This study explores the development of color indices and models for weed detection in computer vision-based herbicide spraying applications. Among the all sensors, RGB colour cameras offer several advantages, including low cost and wide availability of image processing libraries tailored for RGB image analysis.  In present study a Logitech C270 webcam was used for acquiring the RGB images and a specially python algorithm was developed for image segmentation based on color. Excess Green (ExG), Excess Red (ExR), Excess Green minus Red (ExGR), HSV, and CIELAB color model images are developed by using algorithm. The research demonstrates that while ExG and ExGR indices are effective under specific conditions, the CIELAB model offers superior segmentation results across varying lighting environments. Among all these color indices and models, particularly CIELAB, can enhance the precision of weed detection in automated herbicide applications, thereby reducing environmental impact and improving agricultural efficiency.
Longitudinal modulation of electron and mass densities at middle and auroral latitudes: Effect of geomagnetic field strength
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhang Jing , Lühr Hermann , Wei Yong
Published: May 2017

In this study, the effect of a reduction in magnetic field strength on the longitudinal modulation of electron density (ΔNe) and mass density (Δρ) is investigated. We study conditions during the September equinox and June and December solstices at middle and auroral latitudes in both Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The Global Ionosphere‐Thermosphere Model was employed for the theoretical study. Simulations were performed with a realistic International Geomagnetic Reference Field (IGRF) model and an IGRF model reduced in strength by 50%. The reduction in field strength increased the longitudinal variations in ΔNe by 2–34% in the nighttime sector but reduced the variation by 7–20% in the daytime sector at midlatitudes in both hemispheres. Conversely, at auroral latitudes ΔNe was reduced by 2–32% at all local times. The changes during equinoxes are larger than those for the solstices. The differences with local time in the response of ΔNe to a reduction in magnetic field strength were mainly due to changes in the oxygen/molecular nitrogen (O/N2) ratio in the Northern Hemisphere, whereas the differences were due to the combined effects of vertical winds and changes in the O/N2 ratio in the Southern Hemisphere. Both vertical winds and horizontal
convection eliminated ΔNe at high latitudes. Δρ got enhanced at both middle and auroral latitudes, which was related to the enhanced Joule heating effect when the magnetic field was reduced.
Longitudinal variations of topside ionospheric and plasmaspheric TEC
Authors: Zhong Jiahao , Lei Jiuhou , Wang Wenbin , Burns Alan G. , Yue Xinan , Dou Xiankang
Published: May 2017

The upward looking ionospheric total electron content (TEC) from the MetOp‐A and TSX satellites during 2008–2015 has been used to systematically study the longitudinal variations of the topside ionosphere and plasmasphere. The results of this study are summarized as follows: (1) There are significant longitudinal variations in the topside ionosphere and plasmasphere at low latitudes. The TEC maximum during the June solstice over the Western and Central Pacific Ocean corresponds to a TEC minimum at the same location during the December solstice, but the opposite behavior occurs over South America and the Atlantic Ocean. (2) During the solstices, the relative longitudinal variations in the geomagnetic equatorial region do not have a strong dependence on local time and solar activity. (3) The TEC in the winter hemisphere decreases with increasing solar activity, especially at higher altitudes and at night. The topside TEC depletion with solar activity depends on longitude. (4) The solstice‐like longitudinal pattern lasts much longer than the equinox‐like patterns, with the June solstice pattern lasting the longest. Furthermore, the equinox‐like longitudinal patterns occur in March when expected, whereas they extend from the autumnal equinox until the end of October. (5) The longitudinal variations of upward looking TEC are different from the corresponding longitudinal variations of electron densities around the F2 peak and orbital altitudes. This indicates that the topside ionosphere structure is strongly influenced by the physical processes in the topside region, rather than being a pure reflection of the ionospheric F2 peak structure.
Long‐term trends in precipitation and precipitation extremes and underlying mechanisms in the U.S. Great Basin during 1951–2013
Authors: Xue Tingting , Tang Guoping , Sun Lin , Wu Yuzhen , Liu Yonglin , Dou Yifeng
Published: May 2017

Using daily precipitation records from 151 stations, the Mann‐Kendall nonparametric test, and the rotated empirical orthogonal function, this study examined trends in precipitation and precipitation extremes and underlying mechanisms in the U.S. Great Basin during 1951–2013. The results indicate that annual total precipitation, 1 day and 5 day maximum precipitation, extreme precipitation days over the 95th and 99th percentiles trended upward during 1951–2013. Spatially, stations experienced significant positive trends in six indices are mostly distributed in the eastern basin, while those experienced significant negative trends are a few and situated in the western basin. Four distinct modes characterized by different patterns of annual precipitation variations were identified. They are the northeastern, southern, midwestern, and midnorthern modes. In addition, we found that the effects of El Niño–Southern Oscillation and Pacific Decadal Oscillation on precipitation was low in the basin. The intensifying high‐pressure system over the western North Pacific in winter and the increasing water vapor and air temperature of the atmosphere over the basin in winter and spring were mainly responsible for the upward trends in six indices during 1951–2013. Nevertheless, the topography regulates the effects of synoptic conditions on precipitation, contributing to the “east‐west” contrast in station distribution between those experienced negative and positive trends. Overall, precipitation and precipitation extremes increased significantly in the eastern and northern basin while increases were not significant in the western and southern basin. This information has important implications for not only predicting future precipitation changes but also mitigating precipitation‐change‐associated risks on ecosystems and human society in the Great Basin.
High Electroactive Material Loading on a Carbon Nanotube@3D Graphene Aerogel for High‐Performance Flexible All‐Solid‐State Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Pan Zhenghui , Liu Meinan , Yang Jie , Qiu Yongcai , Li Wanfei , Xu Yan , Zhang Xinyi , Zhang Yuegang
Published: May 2017

Freestanding carbon‐based hybrids, specifically carbon nanotube@3D graphene (CNTs@3DG) hybrid, are of great interest in electrochemical energy storage. However, the large holes (about 400 µm) in the commonly used 3D graphene foams (3DGF) constitute as high as 90% of the electrode volume, resulting in a very low loading of electroactive materials that is electrically connected to the carbon, which makes it difficult for flexible supercapacitors to achieve high gravimetric and volumetric energy density. Here, a hierarchically porous carbon hybrid is fabricated by growing 1D CNTs on 3D graphene aerogel (CNTs@3DGA) using a facile one‐step chemical vapor deposition process. In this architecture, the 3DGA with ample interconnected micrometer‐sized pores (about 5 µm) dramatically enhances mass loading of electroactive materials comparing with 3DGF. An optimized all‐solid‐state asymmetric supercapacitor (AASC) based on MnO2@CNTs@3DGA and Ppy@CNTs@3DGA electrodes exhibits high volumetric energy density of 3.85 mW h cm−3 and superior long‐term cycle stability with 84.6% retention after 20 000 cycles, which are among the best reported for AASCs with both electrodes made of pseudocapacitive electroactive materials.
Precise Two‐Photon Photodynamic Therapy using an Efficient Photosensitizer with Aggregation‐Induced Emission Characteristics
Authors: Gu Bobo , Wu Wenbo , Xu Gaixia , Feng Guangxue , Yin Feng , Chong Peter Han Joo , Qu Junle , Yong Ken‐Tye , Liu Bin
Published: May 2017

Two‐photon photodynamic therapy (PDT) is able to offer precise 3D manipulation of treatment volumes, providing a target level that is unattainable with current therapeutic techniques. The advancement of this technique is greatly hampered by the availability of photosensitizers with large two‐photon absorption (TPA) cross section, high reactive‐oxygen‐species (ROS) generation efficiency, and bright two‐photon fluorescence. Here, an effective photosensitizer with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics is synthesized, characterized, and encapsulated into an amphiphilic block copolymer to form organic dots for two‐photon PDT applications. The AIE dots possess large TPA cross section, high ROS generation efficiency, and excellent photostability and biocompatibility, which overcomes the limitations of many conventional two‐photon photosensitizers. Outstanding therapeutic performance of the AIE dots in two‐photon PDT is demonstrated using in vitro cancer cell ablation and in vivo brain‐blood‐vessel closure as examples. This shows therapy precision up to 5 µm under two‐photon excitation.
Controlling Energy Radiations of Electromagnetic Waves via Frequency Coding Metamaterials
Authors: Wu Haotian , Liu Shuo , Wan Xiang , Zhang Lei , Wang Dan , Li Lianlin , Cui Tie Jun
Published: May 2017

Metamaterials are artificial structures composed of subwavelength unit cells to control electromagnetic (EM) waves. The spatial coding representation of metamaterial has the ability to describe the material in a digital way. The spatial coding metamaterials are typically constructed by unit cells that have similar shapes with fixed functionality. Here, the concept of frequency coding metamaterial is proposed, which achieves different controls of EM energy radiations with a fixed spatial coding pattern when the frequency changes. In this case, not only different phase responses of the unit cells are considered, but also different phase sensitivities are also required. Due to different frequency sensitivities of unit cells, two units with the same phase response at the initial frequency may have different phase responses at higher frequency. To describe the frequency coding property of unit cell, digitalized frequency sensitivity is proposed, in which the units are encoded with digits “0” and “1” to represent the low and high phase sensitivities, respectively. By this merit, two degrees of freedom, spatial coding and frequency coding, are obtained to control the EM energy radiations by a new class of frequency‐spatial coding metamaterials. The above concepts and physical phenomena are confirmed by numerical simulations and experiments.
A Hybrid Mg2+/Li+ Battery Based on Interlayer‐Expanded MoS2/Graphene Cathode
Authors: Fan Xin , Gaddam Rohit Ranganathan , Kumar Nanjundan Ashok , Zhao Xiu Song
Published: May 2017

The hybrid Mg2+/Li+ battery (MLIB) is a very promising energy storage technology that combines the advantage of the Li and Mg electrochemistry. However, previous research has shown that the battery performance is limited due to the strong dependence on the Li content in the dual Mg2+/Li+ electrolyte. This limitation can be circumvented by significantly improving the diffusion kinetics of Mg2+ in the electrode, so that both Li+ and Mg2+ ions can be utilized as charge carriers. Herein, a free‐standing interlayer expanded MoS2/graphene composite (E‐MG) is demonstrated as a cathode for MLIB. The key advantage of this cathode is to enable the efficient intercalation of both Mg2+ and Li+. The E‐MG electrode displays a reversible capacity of ≈300 mA h g−1 at 20 mA g−1 in an MLIB cell, corresponding to a specific energy density up to ≈316.9 W h kg−1, which is comparable to that of the state‐of‐the‐art Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) and has no dendrite formation. The composite electrode is stable against cycling with a coulombic efficiency close to 100% at 500 mA g−1. This new electrode design represents a significant step forward for building a safe and high‐density electrochemical energy storage system.
Dielectric Response: Answer to Many Questions in the Methylammonium Lead Halide Solar Cell Absorbers
Authors: Anusca Irina , Balčiūnas Sergejus , Gemeiner Pascale , Svirskas Šarūnas , Sanlialp Mehmet , Lackner Gerhard , Fettkenhauer Christian , Belovickis Jaroslavas , Samulionis Vytautas , Ivanov Maksim , Dkhil Brahim , Banys Juras , Shvartsman Vladimir V. , Lupascu Doru C.
Published: May 2017

Due to the unprecedented rapid increase of their power conversion efficiency, hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites CH3NH3PbX3 (X = I, Br, Cl) can potentially revolutionize the world of solar cells. However, despite tremendous research activity, the origin of the exceptionally large diffusion length of their photogenerated charge carriers, that is, their low recombination rate, remains elusive. Using frequency and temperature‐dependent dielectric measurements across the entire frequency spectrum, it is shown that the dielectric constant conserves very high values (>27) for frequencies below 1 THz in all three halides. This efficiently prevents photocarrier trapping and their recombination owing to the strong screening of charged entities. By combining ultrasonic and Raman spectroscopy with dielectric analysis, similarly large contributions to the dielectric constant are attributed to the dipolar disorder of the CH3NH3
+ cations as well as lattice dynamics in the gigahertz range yielding dielectric constants of εstat = 62 for the iodide, 58 for the bromide, and about 45 for the chloride below 1 GHz at room temperature. Disorder continuously reduces for decreasing temperature. Dipole dynamics prevail in the intermediate tetragonal phase. The low‐temperature orthorhombic state is antipolar. No indications of ferroelectricity are found.
Glucocerebrosidase mutations and neuropsychiatric phenotypes in Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementias: Review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Creese Byron , Bell Emily , Johar Iskandar , Francis Paul , Ballard Clive , Aarsland Dag
Published: May 2017

Heterozygous mutations in glucocerebrosidase gene (GBA) are a major genetic risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Recently, there has been a considerable focus on the relationship between GBA mutations and emergence of cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric symptoms in these diseases. Here, we review the literature in this area, with a particular focus, including meta‐analysis, on the key neuropsychiatric symptoms of cognitive impairment, psychosis, and depression in Parkinson's disease. Our meta‐analysis demonstrated that GBA mutations are associated with a 2.4‐fold increased risk of cognitive impairment. In addition, our novel meta‐analyses of psychosis and depression showed a 1.8‐ and 2.2‐fold increased risk respectively associated with GBA mutations, although due to possible bias and heterogeneity the depression findings should be interpreted with caution. While the precise mechanisms which increase susceptibility to neurodegeneration in GBA carriers are not known, evidence of greater cortical Lewy body pathology, reduced patterns of cortical activation, and hippocampal pathology in animal models are all consistent with a direct effect of GBA mutations on these symptoms. Extension of this work in DLB and individuals without neurodegeneration will be important in further characterizing how GBA mutations increase risk for PD and DLB and influence disease course.
Cardiocerebral and cardiopulmonary resuscitation – 2017 update
Authors: Ewy Gordon A.
Published: May 2017

Sudden cardiac arrest is a major public health problem in the industrialized nations of the world. Yet, in spite of recurrent updates of the guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiac care, many areas have suboptimal survival rates. Cardiocerebral resuscitation, a non‐guidelines approach to therapy of primary cardiac arrest based on our animal research, was instituted in Tucson (AZ, USA) in 2002 and subsequently adopted in other areas of the USA. Survival rates of patients with primary cardiac arrest and a shockable rhythm significantly improved wherever it was adopted. Cardiocerebral resuscitation has three components: the community, the pre‐hospital, and the hospital. The community component emphasizes bystander recognition and chest compression only resuscitation. Its pre‐hospital or emergency medical services component emphasizes: (i) urgent initiation of 200 uninterrupted chest compressions before and after each indicated single defibrillation shock, (ii) delayed endotracheal intubation in favor of passive delivery of oxygen by a non‐rebreather mask, (iii) early adrenaline administration. The hospital component was added later. The national and international guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency medical services are still not optimal, for several reasons, including the fact that they continue to recommend the same approach for two entirely different etiologies of cardiac arrest: primary cardiac arrest, often caused by ventricular fibrillation, where the arterial blood oxygenation is little changed at the time of the arrest, and secondary cardiac arrest from severe respiratory insufficiency, where the arterial blood is severely desaturated at the time of cardiac arrest. These different etiologies need different approaches to therapy.
Efficacy of isoproterenol for treating amlodipine overdose resulting in bradycardia
Authors: Ebihara Takeshi , Morita Masanori , Kawada Masahiro , Amano Koji , Kato Fumitaka , Nakata Yasuki
Published: May 2017

Case

Amlodipine predominantly affects vascular smooth muscle cells. Amlodipine overdose usually presents with vasodilatory shock, accompanied by reflex tachycardia rather than bradycardia.

An 81‐year‐old woman presented with impaired consciousness 8 h after ingesting 50 5‐mg amlodipine tablets with suicidal intent. On admission, her blood pressure was 50/40 mmHg and her heart rate was 45 b.p.m. Serum amlodipine level was extremely high (474.4 ng/mL), causing refractory bradycardia. She remained hypotensive despite fluid resuscitation, and therefore was administered dopamine and norepinephrine. She was also administered glucagon and calcium gluconate, and underwent high‐dose insulin euglycemic therapy.

Outcome

Although her blood pressure improved, bradycardia progressively worsened and isoproterenol infusion was initiated, which resulted in an improvement in her heart rate. The patient discharged on day 14 without any complications.

Conclusion

Isoproterenol is effective for treating bradycardia after amlodipine overdose.
Contribution of Soluble Forms of Programmed Death 1 and Programmed Death Ligand 2 to Disease Severity and Progression in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Fukasawa Takemichi , Yoshizaki Ayumi , Ebata Satoshi , Nakamura Kouki , Saigusa Ryosuke , Miura Syunsuke , Yamashita Takashi , Hirabayashi Megumi , Ichimura Yohei , Taniguchi Takashi , Asano Yoshihide , Shimizu Hisashi , Kazoe Yutaka , Mawatari Kazuma , Kitamori Takehiko , Sato Shinichi
Published: May 2017

Objective

To determine the function and serum levels of soluble forms of programmed death 1 (sPD‐1) and one of its ligands, soluble PD ligand 2 (sPD‐L2), in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) and in a mouse model of topoisomerase I (topo I)–induced SSc.

Methods

Serum levels of sPD‐1 and sPD‐L2 in 91 patients with SSc were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Expression of PD‐1 and PD‐L2 on T cells, B cells, and macrophages was quantified by flow cytometry. The effects of blockade of PD‐1 and PD‐L2 were analyzed by microfluidic ELISA (micro‐ELISA), a technique that can measure very low amounts of cytokines. In addition, the effects of sPD‐1 and sPD‐L2 on disease progression were assessed in mice with topo I–induced SSc.

Results

Serum levels of sPD‐1 and sPD‐L2 were elevated in patients with SSc and correlated with the extent of fibrosis and immunologic abnormalities. Expression levels of PD‐1 and PD‐L2 were significantly elevated on SSc T cells, B cells, and macrophages. Micro‐ELISA analysis of serum samples from patients with SSc showed that PD‐L2high B cells had higher levels of interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) production compared with PD‐L2low B cells, indicating that PD‐L2 acts as a regulator of T cell cytokine production via cognate interactions with T cells and B cells. In mice with topo I–induced SSc, production of IL‐10 by topo I–specific B cells in cultures with T cells and topo I protein was significantly higher than that by conventional B cells, and intraperitoneal injection of recombinant chimeric PD‐1‐Fc and PD‐L2‐Fc canceled these enhanced effects.

Conclusion

These results suggest that sPD‐1 and sPD‐L2 contribute to disease development in SSc via the regulation of cognate interactions with T cells and B cells.
Increasing on‐task behavior of an adolescent with autism using momentary differential reinforcement
Authors: Jessel Joshua , Ingvarsson Einar T. , Whipple Ruth , Kirk Hillary
Published: May 2017

Compliance is often defined as the completion of a discrete task specified by a preceding instruction. However, compliance could also require the completion of a cluster of tasks, such as cleaning a room, getting ready for bed, or doing homework. We conducted this study to determine if a momentary differential reinforcement schedule would increase the on‐task behavior of an adolescent with autism. The momentary differential reinforcement involved repeated momentary supervision checks, with tokens delivered for appropriate task engagement at that moment. The participant completed math worksheets and remained on task as the number of supervisions was faded from one every 30 s to one every 5 min.
Inhibition of melanoma metastasis by dual‐peptide PLGA NPS
Authors: Arruda Denise Costa , de Oliveira Thaís Dolzany , Cursino Patrícia Harume Fukuda , Maia Vera Susana Carneiro , Berzaghi Rodrigo , Travassos Luiz R. , Tada Dayane Batista
Published: May 2017

Despite the positive results observed in vitro and in vivo, clinical trials with bioactive peptides are generally hampered by their fast degradation in the biological system. Two bioactive peptides, P20 (CSSRTMHHC) and the combined peptide C (CVNHPAFACGYGHTMYYHHYQHHL) have been identified as anticancer therapeutics. Combined peptide C consists of peptide C (CVNHPAFAC), a tumor‐homing peptide, conjugated to the antiangiogenic peptide HTMYYHHYQHHL with a GYG. In this work, PLGA NPs with peptide C were applied as a dual‐peptide carrier for application in cancer therapy. Peptide P20 was loaded into the NPs and combined peptide C was conjugated to the NPs surface. These NPs were evaluated as a therapeutic system to treat metastatic melanoma. In vivo assays showed that P20 encapsulation in PLGA NPs enhanced its antitumor activity. The inhibitory activity of P20‐PLGANPs was similar to the activity of non‐encapsulated P20 in a dose fivefold higher. The inhibitory activity was even higher when P20PLGA NPs were functionalized with combined peptide C. P20PLGAPepC NPs reduced in 28% the number of lung nodules in a syngeneic model of metastatic melanoma as compared to untreated animals. Additionally to the better tumor targeting and the in situ release of P20, it is expected that the therapeutic efficiency of the dual‐peptide PLGA NPs was further enhanced by a synergistic effect between P20 and combined peptide C. Our encouraging results showed that by enabling the co‐delivery of two peptides and promoting tumor targeting, PLGA NPs coupled with peptide C is a promising platform for peptide‐based cancer therapy.
Impact of IgG Fc‐Oligosaccharides on Recombinant Monoclonal Antibody Structure, Stability, Safety, and Efficacy
Authors: Liu Hongcheng , Nowak Christine , Andrien Bruce , Shao Mei , Ponniah Gomathinayagam , Neill Alyssa
Published: May 2017

Glycosylation of the conserved asparagine residue in the CH2 domain is the most common posttranslational modification of recombinant monoclonal antibodies. Ideally, a consistent oligosaccharide profile should be maintained from early clinical material to commercial material for the development of recombinant monoclonal therapeutics, though variation in the profile is a typical result of process changes. The risk of oligosaccharide variation posed to further development is required to be thoroughly evaluated based on its impact on antibody structure, stability, efficacy and safety. The variation should be controlled within a range so that there is no detrimental impact on safety and efficacy and thus allowing the use of early phase safety and efficacy data to support project advancement to later phase. This review article focuses on the current scientific understanding of the commonly observed oligosaccharides found in recombinant monoclonal antibodies and their impact on structure, stability and biological functions, which are the basis to evaluate safety and efficacy. It also provides a brief discussion on critical quality attribute (CQA) assessment with regard to oligosaccharides based on the mechanism of action (MOA). © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:1173–1181, 2017
Thalassemia intermedia phenotype resulting from rare combination of c.46delT [Codon15 (‐T)] mutation of beta globin gene and HPFH3
Authors: Kelkar Anjali J. , Moses Anu
Published: May 2017

Key Clinical Message

The beta thalassemia intermedia phenotype has several genotypes. Hematological and molecular diagnostic approach and logical and sequential conduct of various investigations are necessary for the diagnosis of these disorders. Close observations of the genotype–phenotype correlation will provide a better insight for the development of molecular therapy.
Gene Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation in Heart Failure
Authors: Arora R
Published: May 2017

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia and a major cause of morbidity and mortality in an aging population. Unfortunately, current treatments for AF are suboptimal, in large part because the molecular mechanisms underlying AF are not well understood. Recent advances in our understanding of the AF disease state have led to the preclinical development of gene‐based therapies that are targeted to key molecular mechanisms involved in the genesis and maintenance of AF.
Three‐phase hydration of magnesium oxide using hydration agents
Authors: Tang Xiaojia , Ji Yangyuan , Nie Yixing , Guo Lin , Liu Quan , Zhao Jiao , Li Tie , Zhu Yimin
Published: May 2017

A gas‐liquid‐solid reaction system, named three‐phase reaction system, was firstly used for magnesium oxide (MgO) hydration in our previous research. In this paper, the effect of hydration agents on the MgO hydration in three‐phase reaction system was investigated experimentally. The hydration agents included magnesium acetate, acetic acid, and ammonium chloride. The variations of hydration degree (measured by thermogravimetric analysis), pH value, conductivity of different reaction system were studied. Furthermore, the final hydrated samples were characterized by X‐ray power diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nitrogen sorption analyses. The results indicated that the hydration degree was 20%∼30% higher in hydration agent solution than that in deionized water. Hexagonal plate crystal was obtained in all reaction systems, while lager diameter and thinner crystallite was formed in the acetate system. The degree of hydration and the SEM analysis results indicated that the peel‐off phenomenon was more obvious in the present of CH3COO−.
Mapping the Free Energy of Lithium Solvation in the Protic Ionic Liquid Ethylammonuim Nitrate: A Metadynamics Study
Authors: Kachmar Ali , Carignano Marcelo , Laino Teodoro , Iannuzzi Marcella , Hutter Jürg
Published: May 2017

Understanding lithium solvation and transport in ionic liquids is important due to their possible application in electrochemical devices. Using first‐principles simulations aided by a metadynamics approach we study the free‐energy landscape for lithium ions at infinite dilution in ethylammonium nitrate, a protic ionic liquid. We analyze the local structure of the liquid around the lithium cation and obtain a quantitative picture in agreement with experimental findings. Our simulations show that the lowest two free energy minima correspond to conformations with the lithium ion being solvated either by three or four nitrate ions with a transition barrier between them of 0.2 eV. Other less probable conformations having different solvation pattern are also investigated.
A step towards removing plasma volume variance from the Athlete's Biological Passport: The use of biomarkers to describe vascular volumes from a simple blood test
Authors: Lobigs Louisa M. , Sottas Pierre‐Edouard , Bourdon Pitre C. , Nikolovski Zoran , El‐Gingo Mohamed , Varamenti Evdokia , Peeling Peter , Dawson Brian , Schumacher Yorck O.
Published: May 2017

The haematological module of the Athlete's Biological Passport (ABP) has significantly impacted the prevalence of blood manipulations in elite sports. However, the ABP relies on a number of concentration‐based markers of erythropoiesis, such as haemoglobin concentration ([Hb]), which are influenced by shifts in plasma volume (PV). Fluctuations in PV contribute to the majority of biological variance associated with volumetric ABP markers. Our laboratory recently identified a panel of common chemistry markers (from a simple blood test) capable of describing ca 67% of PV variance, presenting an applicable method to account for volume shifts within anti‐doping practices.

Here, this novel PV marker was included into the ABP adaptive model. Over a six‐month period (one test per month), 33 healthy, active males provided blood samples and performed the CO‐rebreathing method to record PV (control). In the final month participants performed a single maximal exercise effort to promote a PV shift (mean PV decrease −17%, 95% CI −9.75 to −18.13%). Applying the ABP adaptive model, individualized reference limits for [Hb] and the OFF‐score were created, with and without the PV correction.

With the PV correction, an average of 66% of [Hb] within‐subject variance is explained, narrowing the predicted reference limits, and reducing the number of atypical ABP findings post‐exercise. Despite an increase in sensitivity there was no observed loss of specificity with the addition of the PV correction.

The novel PV marker presented here has the potential to improve the ABP's rate of correct doping detection by removing the confounding effects of PV variance.
The test of time: a history of clock drawing
Authors: Hazan Elias , Frankenburg Frances , Brenkel Megan , Shulman Kenneth
Published: May 2017

Objective

The clock drawing test (CDT) has become one of the most widely used cognitive screening instruments in clinical and research settings. Its effectiveness, acceptability, and quick and easy administration have made it a staple for cognitive screening in dementia and a wide range of brain disorders. Despite a spike in popularity since the 1990s, its origins are relatively unknown. The goal of this review is to chronicle its saga and chart its usage over time.

Methods

PsycInfo, Medline, and PubMed literature searches were performed from earliest record to June 2016, in addition to manual cross‐referencing of bibliographies, with a focus before 1990. Summary of relevant articles and books up until 1989 is included, as well as clinical applications and surveys that track CDT usage over time.

Results

While MacDonald Critchley's well‐known textbook from 1953, The Parietal Lobes, is often cited as the first mention of the CDT, its recorded use actually stretches back more than a century to 1915. A review of the literature shows that the CDT began as a test for aphasia‐related disorders and constructional apraxia until its entry into contemporary cognitive screening in the 1980s when it primarily became a cognitive screen. Its usage took off in 1989 with over 2000 publications since.

Conclusions

Despite a fairly obscure existence for decades, the CDT has emerged as an effective and ideal cognitive screening instrument for a wide range of conditions. Its use continues to increase, and it has been incorporated into several widely used cognitive screening batteries. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Total cerebral small vessel disease score and cognitive performance in community‐dwelling older adults. Results from the Atahualpa Project
Authors: Del Brutto Victor J. , Ortiz Jorge G. , Del Brutto Oscar H. , Mera Robertino M. , Zambrano Mauricio , Biller José
Published: May 2017

Objective

Cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) is inversely associated with cognitive performance. However, whether the total SVD score is a better predictor of poor cognitive performance than individual signatures of SVD is inconclusive. We aimed to estimate the combined and independent predictive power of these MRI findings.

Methods

Atahualpa residents aged ≥60 years underwent brain MRI. Cognitive performance was measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The presence of moderate‐to‐severe white matter hyperintensities, deep cerebral microbleeds, lacunar infarcts, and >10 enlarged perivascular spaces was added for estimating the total SVD score ranging from 0 to 4 points. Montreal Cognitive Assessment predictive models were fitted to assess how well the total SVD score or each of its components predicts cognitive performance.

Results

Of 351 eligible candidates, 331 (94%) were included. The total SVD score was 0 points in 202 individuals (61%), 1 point in 67 (20%), 2 points in 40 (12%), 3 points in 15 (5%), and 4 points in seven (2%). A generalized lineal model showed an inverse relationship between the total SVD score and the MoCA (p = 0.015). The proportion of variance in the MoCA score explained by the SVD score was 32.8% (R2 = 0.328). This predictive power was similar for white matter hyperintensities (R2 = 0.306), microbleeds (R2 = 0.313), lacunar infarcts (R2 = 0.323), and perivascular spaces (R2 = 0.313).

Conclusions

This study shows a significant association between the SVD score and worse cognitive performance. The SVD score is a predictor of poor cognitive performance. This predictive power is not better than that of isolated neuroimaging signatures of SVD. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evolution of deep gray matter volume across the human lifespan
Authors: Narvacan Karl , Treit Sarah , Camicioli Richard , Martin Wayne , Beaulieu Christian
Published: May 2017

Magnetic resonance imaging of subcortical gray matter structures, which mediate behavior, cognition and the pathophysiology of several diseases, is crucial for establishing typical maturation patterns across the human lifespan. This single site study examines T1‐weighted MPRAGE images of 3 healthy cohorts: (i) a cross‐sectional cohort of 406 subjects aged 5–83 years; (ii) a longitudinal neurodevelopment cohort of 84 subjects scanned twice approximately 4 years apart, aged 5–27 years at first scan; and (iii) a longitudinal aging cohort of 55 subjects scanned twice approximately 3 years apart, aged 46–83 years at first scan. First scans from longitudinal subjects were included in the cross‐sectional analysis. Age‐dependent changes in thalamus, caudate, putamen, globus pallidus, nucleus accumbens, hippocampus, and amygdala volumes were tested with Poisson, quadratic, and linear models in the cross‐sectional cohort, and quadratic and linear models in the longitudinal cohorts. Most deep gray matter structures best fit to Poisson regressions in the cross‐sectional cohort and quadratic curves in the young longitudinal cohort, whereas the volume of all structures except the caudate and globus pallidus decreased linearly in the longitudinal aging cohort. Males had larger volumes than females for all subcortical structures, but sex differences in trajectories of change with age were not significant. Within subject analysis showed that 65%–80% of 13–17 year olds underwent a longitudinal decrease in volume between scans (∼4 years apart) for the putamen, globus pallidus, and hippocampus, suggesting unique developmental processes during adolescence. This lifespan study of healthy participants will form a basis for comparison to neurological and psychiatric disorders. Hum Brain Mapp 38:3771–3790, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnostic and prognostic values of Club cell protein 16 (CC16) in critical care patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Lin Jinle , Zhang Wenwu , Wang Lijun , Tian Fang
Published: May 2017

Background

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a critical condition characterized by bilateral pulmonary infiltrates and severe hypoxemia. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic values of Club cell protein 16 (CC16) in critical care patients with ARDS.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, 83 patients with ARDS and 129 non‐ARDS patients on ICU admission were enrolled. The differences in serum CC16 and other laboratory indicators between two groups were analyzed. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy of CC16 as a diagnostic marker on ICU admission were determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The correlation between serum CC16 levels and the severity of ARDS as quantified by PaO2/FiO2 ratio were further assessed. CC16 levels were compared between survivors and non‐survivors. The relationships between CC16 levels and duration of ICU and hospitalization were evaluated.

Results

The serum CC16 levels in ARDS patients were significantly higher than that in non‐ARDS patients (54.44±19.62 vs 24.13±12.32 ng/mL, P=.001). ROC analysis showed that the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 90.4%, 79.8%, 74.2%, and 92.8%, respectively, when the cut‐off value was set at 33.3 ng/mL. CC16 levels were correlated with the severity of ARDS. The serum CC16 levels were significantly greater in non‐survivors than in survivors from the ARDS group. CC16 levels were associated with ICU stay but not hospital stay.

Conclusions

CC16 may serve as a diagnostic and stratification marker for ARDS. However, it provided limited prognostic information for ARDS.
Development and validation of an LC‐MS/MS method to quantify lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), iso‐LSD, 2‐oxo‐3‐hydroxy‐LSD, and nor‐LSD and identify novel metabolites in plasma samples in a controlled clinical trial
Authors: Dolder Patrick C. , Liechti Matthias E. , Rentsch Katharina M.
Published: May 2017

Background

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a widely used recreational drug. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method for the quantification of LSD, iso‐LSD, 2‐oxo‐3‐hydroxy LSD (O‐H‐LSD), and nor‐LSD in plasma samples from 24 healthy subjects after controlled administration of 100 μg LSD in a clinical trial. In addition, metabolites that have been recently described in in vitro studies, including lysergic acid monoethylamide (LAE), lysergic acid ethyl‐2‐hydroxyethylamide (LEO), 2‐oxo‐LSD, trioxylated‐LSD, and 13/14‐hydroxy‐LSD, should be identified.

Methods

Separation of LSD and its metabolites was achieved on a reversed phase chromatography column after turbulent‐flow online extraction. For the identification and quantification, a triple‐stage quadrupole LC‐MS/MS instrument was used.

Results

The validation data showed slight matrix effects for LSD, iso‐LSD, O‐H‐LSD, or nor‐LSD. Mean intraday and interday accuracy and precision were 105%/4.81% and 105%/4.35% for LSD, 98.7%/5.75% and 99.4%/7.21% for iso‐LSD, 106%/4.54% and 99.4%/7.21% for O‐H‐LSD, and 107%/5.82% and 102%/5.88% for nor‐LSD, respectively. The limit of quantification was 0.05 ng/mL for LSD, iso‐LSD, and nor‐LSD and 0.1 ng/mL for O‐H‐LSD. The limit of detection was 0.01 ng/mL for all compounds.

Conclusion

The method described herein was accurate, precise, and the calibration range within the range of expected plasma concentrations. LSD was quantified in the plasma samples of the 24 subjects of the clinical trial, whereas iso‐LSD, O‐H‐LSD, nor‐LSD, LAE, LEO, 13/14‐hydroxy‐LSD, and 2‐oxo‐LSD could only sporadically be detected but were too low for quantification.
Sonographic appearance of subungual squamous cell carcinoma in the hand
Authors: Quintana‐Codina Monica , Creus‐Vila Lídia , Iglesias‐Plaza Ana , Iglesias‐Sancho Maribel , Melé‐Ninot Gemma , Lázaro‐Simó Anna Isabel , Salleras‐Redonnet Montse
Published: May 2017

Subungual squamous cell carcinoma is very rare, but it is the most frequent primary malignant tumor of the nail bed. Therefore, its diagnosis and treatment are crucial to ensure a favorable prognosis. We present the sonographic findings in a case of a subungual squamous cell carcinoma. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 46:212–214, 2018
Hospital‐acquired rotavirus and norovirus acute gastroenteritis in a pediatric unit, in 2014‐2015
Authors: Valentini Diletta , Ianiro Giovanni , Di Bartolo Ilaria , Di Camillo Chiara , Boccuzzi Elena , Vittucci Anna C. , Ruggeri Franco M. , Monini Marina
Published: May 2017

The occurrence of hospital‐acquired acute gastroenteritis (AGE) is a major concern for public health. RotavirusA (RVA) and norovirus (NoV) are common causes of viral AGE in the pediatric population, and their role in nosocomial infections has been proven, remaining poorly investigated. To investigate RVA and NoV in hospital‐acquired AGE, 55 stool samples from children with nosocomial AGE were collected between May 2014 and May 2015. To evaluate virus spreading routes, 51 environmental swabs were collected from staff and patients’ rooms. Stools were tested for both RVA and NoV RNA by reverse‐transcription‐PCR. Nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed to characterize the viruses. Forty‐seven of 55 cases analyzed resulted positive for RVA. The predominant genotype was G4P[8] (18/55) followed by G1P[8] (14/55). Mixed RVA infections were also detected (7/55). Twenty‐two samples were positive for NoV, and GII.4 was revealed to be the predominant genotype. Seventeen samples were positive for both RVA and NoV. This study aimed to evaluate the burden of norovirus and rotavirus nosocomial AGE, contributing to identify the environment source of infections and to activate effective strategies for intervention. The reduction in nosocomial AGE cases is an important aspect, considered the worsened disease course in transplant, cancer, and intensive care unit inpatients.