bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discriminative Prior - Prior Image Constrained Compressed Sensing Reconstruction for Low-Dose CT Imaging
Authors: Chen Yang , Liu Jin , Xie Lizhe , Hu Yining , Shu Huazhong , Luo Limin , Zhang Libo , Gui Zhiguo , Coatrieux Gouenou
Published: October 2017

X-ray computed tomography (CT) has been widely used to provide patient-specific anatomical information in the forms of tissue attenuation. However, the cumulative radiation induced in CT scan has raised extensive concerns in recently years. How to maintain reconstruction image quality is a major challenge for low-dose CT (LDCT) imaging. Generally, LDCT imaging can be greatly improved by incorporating prior knowledge in some specific forms. A joint estimation framework termed discriminative prior-prior image constrained compressed sensing (DP-PICCS) reconstruction is proposed in this paper. This DP-PICCS algorithm utilizes discriminative prior knowledge via two feature dictionary constraints which built on atoms from the samples of tissue attenuation feature patches and noise-artifacts residual feature patches, respectively. Also, the prior image construction relies on a discriminative feature representation (DFR) processing by two feature dictionary. Its comparison to other competing methods through experiments on low-dose projections acquired from torso phantom simulation study and clinical abdomen study demonstrated that the DP-PICCS method achieved promising improvement in terms of the effectively-suppressed noise and the well-retained structures.
Affecting long-term fear memory formation through optical control of Rac1 GTPase and PAK activity in lateral amygdala
Authors: Das Aniruddha , Dines Monica , Alapin Jessica M. , Lamprecht Raphael
Published: October 2017

Fear conditioning, a behavioral model for studying fear-related disorders, is believed to be formed by alterations of synaptic efficacy mediated by changes in synaptic transmission and neuronal morphology in lateral amygdala (LA). Rac GTPase and its downstream effector p21-activated kinase (PAK) are involved in such key neuronal functions. Here we show that optical activation of Rac1 GTPase using photoactivatable form of Rac1 (PA-Rac1) in amygdala led to phosphorylation of PAK and inhibition of long-term but not short-term auditory fear conditioning memory formation. Activation of PA-Rac1 in LA one day after fear conditioning had no effect on long-term fear memory tested 24 hrs after PA-Rac1 activation. Inhibition of PAK in LA by microinjection of the PAK inhibitor IPA-3 30 minutes before fear conditioning enhanced long-term but not short-term fear memory formation. Our results demonstrate that photoactivation of Rac1 GTPase in lateral amygdala impairs fear memory formation. Moreover, Rac1 effector PAK activity during fear conditioning constrains the formation of fear memory in LA. Thus, Rac GTPase and PAK proteins may serve as targets for treatment of fear and anxiety disorders.
Effects of the discharge of uranium mining effluents on the water quality of the reservoir: an integrative chemical and ecotoxicological assessment
Authors: Ferrari Carla Rolim , do Nascimento Heliana de Azevedo Franco , Rodgher Suzelei , Almeida Tito , Bruschi Armando Luiz , Nascimento Marcos Roberto Lopes do , Bonifácio Rodrigo Leandro
Published: October 2017

The water quality of the Antas reservoir, under the influence of treated effluents from a uranium mining area Ore Treatment Unit (UTM) with acid mine drainage, was investigated. Samples were collected every 3 months from the Antas reservoir (CAB, P41-E and P14) and from the UTM (P41-S). Chemical and acute 48 h toxicity tests using Ceriodaphnia silvestrii and Daphnia magna analyses were carried out to determine the potential environmental risks due to discharging the uranium mine effluents into this reservoir. All the water samples taken from the treated effluent (P41-S) were positively correlated with elevated concentrations of uranium, manganese, aluminum, zinc and fluoride and with high electrical conductivity and pH values, being considered toxic. In November 2014 water samples taken from the reservoir showed chemical concentrations above the legislation limits for fluoride (4.5 mg L−1) uranium (0.082 mg L−1), sulfate (662.4 mg L−1), manganese (1.125 mg L−1) and aluminum (1.55 mg L−1), and in July 2015 for fluoride (2.55 mg L−1), uranium (0.01 mg L−1) and manganese (0.36 mg L−1). The extremely high average value for hardness (543.55 mg L−1) possibly reduced the toxicity potential of this chemical species mixture with respect to the bioindicators. The influence of the variation in water hardness on the toxicity of the cladocerans was discussed.
Periodontal pathogenic bacteria, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans affect non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by altering gut microbiota and glucose metabolism
Authors: Komazaki Rina , Katagiri Sayaka , Takahashi Hirokazu , Maekawa Shogo , Shiba Takahiko , Takeuchi Yasuo , Kitajima Yoichiro , Ohtsu Anri , Udagawa Sayuri , Sasaki Naoki , Watanabe Kazuki , Sato Noriko , Miyasaka Naoyuki , Eguchi Yuichiro , Anzai Keizo , Izumi Yuichi
Published: October 2017

Increasing evidence indicates that periodontitis affects non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We examined the relationship between periodontal bacterial infection and clinical/biochemical parameters in 52 NAFLD patients. Anti-Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) antibody titers correlated positively with visceral fat, fasting plasma insulin, and HOMA-IR; and negatively with the liver/spleen ratio. C57BL/6J mice (8-weeks-old) were given Aa or saline (control) for 6 weeks, and were fed either normal chow (NCAa, NCco) or high-fat diet (HFAa and HFco). NCAa and HFAa mice presented impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance compared to control mice. HFAa mice showed higher hepatic steatosis than HFco animals. Liver microarray analysis revealed that 266 genes were differentially expressed between NCAa and NCco mice. Upregulated genes in Aa-administrated mice were enriched for glucagon signaling pathway, adipocytokine signaling pathway and insulin resistance. Consistently, plasma glucagon concentration was higher in NCAa mice. In addition, Akt phosphorylation was lower in the liver of NCAa/HFAa than in NCco/HFco mice. Based on 16S rRNA sequencing, Aa administration changed composition of the gut microbiota. Metagenome prediction in gut microbiota showed upregulation of fatty acid biosynthesis and downregulation of fatty acid degradation in Aa-administered mice. Thus, infection with Aa affects NAFLD by altering the gut microbiota and glucose metabolism.
Impacts of microhabitat changes on wintering waterbird populations
Authors: Zou Ye-Ai , Pan Bai-Han , Zhang Hong , Zhang Ping-Yang , Yao Yi , Liu Xiang-Kui , Gao Da-Li , Xie Yong-Hong
Published: October 2017

Caisang Lake, a human-modified wetland, experienced dramatic habitat alterations from the planting of lotus and culturing of crab. Whether the Caisang Lake still maintains populations of wintering waterbirds is of great concern. Here, we compare the changes in waterbird populations before and after habitat alterations in Caisang Lake and assess the driving factors leading to the dramatic changes in waterbird populations. Results indicate that wintering waterbird populations were significantly impacted by altered forage availability, with species- and guild-specific responses. Dramatic habitat alterations from planting lotus caused significant declines in areas of native vegetation, mudflats, and water that may have caused associated declines in herbivores, insectivores, and fish-eating waterbirds, respectively. In contrast, the increased size of the lotus area appears to have led to an increase in omnivorous waterbirds. A food shortage, potentially caused by a large area of Caisang Lake being used for culturing crab, might be another cause of the observed decline in fish-eating waterbirds. This study demonstrates a powerful approach to systematically evaluate waterbird responses to wetland management policies. These findings are important as efforts are made to protect the wintering waterbirds from the effects of human intervention, particularly at other Ramsar wetlands.
Method to Reduce Long-lived Fission Products by Nuclear Transmutations with Fast Spectrum Reactors
Authors: Chiba Satoshi , Wakabayashi Toshio , Tachi Yoshiaki , Takaki Naoyuki , Terashima Atsunori , Okumura Shin , Yoshida Tadashi
Published: October 2017

Transmutation of long-lived fission products (LLFPs: 79Se, 93Zr, 99Tc, 107Pd, 129I, and 135Cs) into short-lived or non-radioactive nuclides by fast neutron spectrum reactors without isotope separation has been proposed as a solution to the problem of radioactive wastes disposal. Despite investigation of many methods, such transmutation remains technologically difficult. To establish an effective and efficient transmutation system, we propose a novel neutron moderator material, yttrium deuteride (YD2), to soften the neutron spectrum leaking from the reactor core. Neutron energy spectra and effective half-lives of LLFPs, transmutation rates, and support ratios were evaluated with the continuous-energy Monte Carlo code MVP-II/MVP-BURN and the JENDL–4.0 cross section library. With the YD2 moderator in the radial blanket and shield regions, effective half-lives drastically decreased from 106 to 102 years and the support ratios reached 1.0 for all six LLFPs. This successful development and implementation of a transmutation system for LLFPs without isotope separation contributes to a the ability of fast spectrum reactors to reduce radioactive waste by consuming their own LLFPs.
Stable isotope labeling by essential nutrients in cell culture (SILEC) for accurate measurement of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide metabolism
Authors: Frederick David W. , Trefely Sophie , Buas Alexia , Goodspeed Jason , Singh Jay , Mesaros Clementina , Baur Joseph A. , Snyder Nathaniel W.
Published: October 2017

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP) are conserved metabolic cofactors that mediate reduction-oxidation (redox) reactions throughout all domains of life.
Highly stereoselective cyclopropanation of various olefins with diazosulfones catalyzed by Ru(ii)–Pheox complexes
Authors: Kotozaki Manato , Chanthamath Soda , Fujisawa Ikuhide , Shibatomi Kazutaka , Iwasa Seiji
Published: October 2017

A highly stereoselective cyclopropanation of various olefins with diazosulfones catalyzed by chiral Ru(ii)–Pheox complexes was developed to give chiral cyclopropyl sulfones in high yields (up to 99%) with excellent trans-selectivity and enantioselectivity (up to 98% ee).
Versatile palladium-catalyzed double carbonylation of aryl bromides
Authors: Shen Chaoren , Fink Cornel , Laurenczy Gabor , Dyson Paul J. , Wu Xiao-Feng
Published: October 2017

A versatile palladium-catalyzed double carbonylation of aryl bromides has been developed.
Interplay between the folding mechanism and binding modes in folding coupled to binding processes
Authors: Sharma Rajendra , De Sancho David , Muñoz Victor
Published: October 2017

Proteins that fold upon binding to their partners exhibit complex binding behavior such as induced-fit. Using molecular simulations we find that the ability to bind via induced-fit requires the disordered protein to fold downhill. Thus induced-fit appears as a manifestation of a conformational rheostat.
Effect of donor to acceptor ratio on electrochemical and spectroscopic properties of oligoalkylthiophene 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives
Authors: Kurowska Aleksandra , Zassowski Pawel , Kostyuchenko Anastasia S. , Zheleznova Tatyana Yu. , Andryukhova Kseniya V. , Fisyuk Alexander S. , Pron Adam , Domagala Wojciech
Published: October 2017

Donor-to-acceptor ratio bespoke ambipolar oligothiophene and 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives highlight the structural traits delivering efficient p- and n-dopable π-conjugated oligomers and polymers.
The influence of particle size of amino-functionalized MCM-41 silicas on CO2 adsorption
Authors: Gatti G. , Vittoni C. , Costenaro D. , Paul G. , Mangano E. , Brandani S. , Marchese L. , Bisio C.
Published: October 2017

The effect of the particle size of hybrid organic–inorganic MCM-41 silicas on the CO2 adsorption properties has been investigated.
Hydrogen functionalization induced two-dimensional ferromagnetic semiconductor in Mn di-halide systems
Authors: Umar Farooq M. , Khan Imran , Moaied Mohammed , Hong Jisang
Published: October 2017

We explored the electronic and magnetic properties of two-dimensional manganese di-halides (MnY2, Y = I, Br, Cl) and hydrogenated systems (MnHY2).
Retracted Article: The reductive phase of Rhodobacter sphaeroides cytochrome c oxidase disentangled by CO ligation
Authors: Mohrmann Hendrik , Dragelj Jovan , Baserga Federico , Knapp Ernst-Walter , Stripp Sven T. , Heberle Joachim
Published: October 2017

Oxidation of CO-inhibited cytochrome c oxidase is found to correlate with a deprotonation at the heme sites.
Synthesis, characterization and magnetic properties of head-to-head stacked vanadocenes
Authors: Puhl Sarah , Steenbock Torben , Harms Reentje , Herrmann Carmen , Heck Jürgen
Published: October 2017

Despite six unpaired electrons, this bisvanadocenyl complex shows poor antiferromagnetic exchange coupling due to both weak through-space and through-bond interactions.
Recent development of luminescent rhenium(i) tricarbonyl polypyridine complexes as cellular imaging reagents, anticancer drugs, and antibacterial agents
Authors: Lee Lawrence Cho-Cheung , Leung Kam-Keung , Lo Kenneth Kam-Wing
Published: October 2017

This Perspective summarizes recent advances in the biological applications of luminescent rhenium(i) tricarbonyl polypyridine complexes.
Photochromism, photoluminescence modulation and selective recognition of small molecules of two highly stable dynamic metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Gong Yun-Nan , Wei Xue-Wen , Deng Ji-Hua , Zhong Di-Chang , Pan Chun-Yang
Published: October 2017

Two highly stable dynamic Ln-MOFs show photochromism, tunable photoluminescence, and selective recognition of small molecules.
K-10 montmorillonite-catalyzed solid phase diazotizations: environmentally benign coupling of diazonium salts with aromatic hydrocarbons to biaryls
Authors: Pandey Garima , Török Béla
Published: October 2017

A new heterogeneous catalytic diazotization and subsequent coupling of diazonium salts with aromatics for the synthesis of biaryls is described.
Molecular engineering of functionalized crown ether resins for the isotopic enrichment of gadolinium: from computer to column chromatography
Authors: Boda A. , Singha Deb A. K. , Ali Sk. M. , Shenoy K. T. , Mohan S.
Published: October 2017

Computer aided molecular engineering of functionalized crown ethers for isotope separation of gadolinium using column chromatography.
Urchin-like tungsten suboxide for photoacoustic imaging-guided photothermal and photodynamic cancer combination therapy
Authors: Wang Fei , Song Chuanqi , Guo Wei , Ding Dandan , Zhang Qun , Gao Yan , Yan Mei , Guo Chongshen , Liu Shaoqin
Published: October 2017

This work employed a material of urchin-like tungsten suboxide for NIR-mediated multifunctional theranostics, including photothermal therapy, photodynamic treatment and photoacoustic imaging.
FRET based selective and ratiometric detection of Al(iii) with live-cell imaging
Authors: Manna Abhishek , Sain Dibyendu , Guchhait Nikhil , Goswami Shyamaprosad
Published: October 2017

A cell permeable FRET based platform for dual mode ‘naked-eye’in vitroandin vivodetection of Al3+over other common ions (including trivalent ions).
One-step synthesis of novel poly(terephthalate-alt-benzoquinone) with high specific capacity as a stable organic cathode for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Li Chao , Tan Haochen , Pei Jingfang , Wang Chuan , Fan Cong , Huang Fangyi , Cao Bei , Hao Minghui , Li Yuanxun , Wang Zhihong , Li Jingze
Published: October 2017

A novel polymer of PTPBQ was synthesized for the first time and could probably realize a maximum capacity of ∼390 mAh g−1 in Li-ion batteries.
Doubling the power of DP4 for computational structure elucidation
Authors: Ermanis K. , Parkes K. E. B. , Agback T. , Goodman J. M.
Published: October 2017

Improvements to the DP4 computational structure elucidation method have led to a 2-fold reduction in structural uncertainty and 7-fold improvement of statistical confidence.
Cationic phthalocyanine dendrimers as potential antimicrobial photosensitisers
Authors: Ruiz-González Rubén , Setaro Francesca , Gulías Òscar , Agut Montserrat , Hahn Uwe , Torres Tomás , Nonell Santi
Published: October 2017

Synthesis, photophysical properties and photoantimicrobial efficiency of cationic Zn(ii) and Ru(ii) dendrimeric phthalocyanines.
Synthesis of ultra-high molecular weight ABA triblock copolymers via aqueous RAFT-mediated gel polymerisation, end group modification and chain coupling
Authors: Dao Vu H. , Cameron Neil R. , Saito Kei
Published: October 2017

Novel ultra-high molecular weight ABA triblock copolymers were synthesised using aqueous RAFT polymerisation, end-group modification and chain coupling.
A novel self-healing electrochromic film based on a triphenylamine cross-linked polymer
Authors: Zheng Rongzong , Zhang Jiaqiang , Jia Chunyang , Wan Zhongquan , Fan Yaru , Weng Xiaolong , Xie Jianliang , Deng Longjiang
Published: October 2017

A novel electrochromic material with self-healing properties, which may hold great potential to overcome the scar generation in ECDs, has been synthesized and studied.
Real-space imaging of translational and rotational dynamics of hard spheres from the fluid to the crystal
Authors: Schütter Stefan , Roller Jörg , Kick Andrea , Meijer Janne-Mieke , Zumbusch Andreas
Published: October 2017

Using real-space imaging of single particles, we investigate the interplay between translational and rotational motion of tracer particles in suspensions of colloidal particles over a wide range of volume fractions from dilute fluid to densely packed crystal.
Phase transfer of TiO2 nanoparticles from water to ionic liquid triggered by phosphonic acid grafting
Authors: Bhandary R. , Alauzun J. G. , Hesemann P. , Stocco A. , In M. , Mutin P. H.
Published: October 2017

Hydroxylated TiO2 nanoparticles can be transferred from water to [Emim][NTf2] ionic liquid by reaction with a phosphonic acid bearing a cationic group; this phase transfer involves both grafting and anion exchange.
The first frost in the Pipe Nebula
Authors: Goto Miwa , Bailey Jeffrey D. , Hocuk Seyit , Caselli Paola , Esplugues Gisela B. , Cazaux Stephanie , Spaans Marco
Published: October 2017

Context. Spectroscopic studies of ices in nearby star-forming regions indicate that ice mantles form on dust grains in two distinct steps, starting with polar ice formation (H2O rich) and switching to apolar ice (CO rich).

Aims. We test how well the picture applies to more diffuse and quiescent clouds where the formation of the first layers of ice mantles can be witnessed.

Methods. Medium-resolution near-infrared spectra are obtained toward background field stars behind the Pipe Nebula.

Results. The water ice absorption is positively detected at 3.0 μm in seven lines of sight out of 21 sources for which observed spectra are successfully reduced. The peak optical depth of the water ice is significantly lower than those in Taurus with the same AV. The source with the highest water-ice optical depth shows CO ice absorption at 4.7 μm as well. The fractional abundance of CO ice with respect to water ice is 16-6+7%, and about half as much as the values typically seen in low-mass star-forming regions.

Conclusions. A small fractional abundance of CO ice is consistent with some of the existing simulations. Observations of CO2 ice in the early diffuse phase of a cloud play a decisive role in understanding the switching mechanism between polar and apolar ice formation.
Rotational spectrum of methoxyamine up to 480 GHz: a laboratory study and astronomical search
Authors: Kolesniková L. , Tercero B. , Alonso E. R. , Guillemin J.-C. , Cernicharo J. , Alonso J. L.
Published: October 2017

Aims.Methoxyamine is a potential interstellar amine that has been predicted by gas-grain chemical models for the formation of complex molecules. The aim of this work is to provide direct experimental frequencies of its ground-vibrational state in the millimeter- and submillimeter-wave regions to achieve its detection in the interstellar medium.

Methods.Methoxyamine was chemically liberated from its hydrochloride salt, and its rotational spectrum was recorded at room temperature from 75 to 480 GHz using the millimeter-wave spectrometer in Valladolid. Many observed transitions revealedA−Esplitting caused by the internal rotation of the methyl group, which had to be treated with specific internal rotation codes.

Results.Over 400 lines were newly assigned for the most stable conformer of methoxyamine, and a precise set of spectroscopic constants was obtained. Spectral features of methoxyamine were then searched for in the Orion KL, Sgr B2, B1-b, and TMC-1 molecular clouds. Upper limits to the column density of methoxyamine were derived.
The MUSE Hubble Ultra Deep Field Survey
Authors: Maseda Michael V. , Brinchmann Jarle , Franx Marijn , Bacon Roland , Bouwens Rychard J. , Schmidt Kasper B. , Boogaard Leindert A. , Contini Thierry , Feltre Anna , Inami Hanae , Kollatschny Wolfram , Marino Raffaella A. , Richard Johan , Verhamme Anne , Wisotzki Lutz
Published: October 2017

The C III] λλ1907, 1909 emission doublet has been proposed as an alternative to Lyman-α in redshift confirmations of galaxies at z ≳ 6 since it is not attenuated by the largely neutral intergalactic medium at these redshifts and is believed to be strong in the young, vigorously star-forming galaxies present at these early cosmic times. We present a statistical sample of 17 C III]-emitting galaxies beyond z ~ 1.5 using ~30 h deep VLT/MUSE integral field spectroscopy covering 2 square arcminutes in the Hubble Deep Field South (HDFS) and Ultra Deep Field (UDF), achieving C III] sensitivities of ~ 2 × 10-17 erg s-1 cm-2 in the HDFS and ~ 7 × 10-18 erg s-1 cm-2 in the UDF. The rest-frame equivalent widths range from 2 to 19 Å. These 17 galaxies represent ~3% of the total sample of galaxies found between 1.5 ≲ z ≲ 4. They also show elevated star formation rates, lower dust attenuation, and younger mass-weighted ages than the general population of galaxies at the same redshifts. Combined with deep slitless grism spectroscopy from the HST/WFC3 in the UDF, we can tie the rest-frame ultraviolet C III] emission to rest-frame optical emission lines, namely [O III] λ5007, finding a strong correlation between the two. Down to the flux limits that we observe (~ 1 × 10-18 erg s-1 cm-2 with the grism data in the UDF), all objects with a rest-frame [O III] λλ4959, 5007 equivalent width in excess of 250 Å, the so-called extreme emission line galaxies, have detections of C III] in our MUSE data. More detailed studies of the C III]-emitting population at these intermediate redshifts will be crucial to understand the physical conditions in galaxies at early cosmic times and to determine the utility of C III] as a redshift tracer.
Le changement de paradigme du traitement des malocclusions de classe II chez l’enfant et l’adolescent : l’apport du Correcteur de classe II
Authors: Amat Philippe
Published: October 2017

Introduction : Le traitement des malocclusions de classe II est l’essentiel de notre activité clinique. Sur quels éléments le clinicien peut-il s’appuyer, pour proposer à son patient, enfant ou adolescent, un traitement de sa malocclusion de classe II, non seulement efficace, mais aussi le plus approprié à son cas individuel ? Quel calendrier et quel dispositif thérapeutiques privilégier ? Matériels et méthodes : L’orthodontie fondée sur les faits, avec la recherche des meilleures données sur les traitements en deux phases, a été utilisée pour juger de la validité des principaux objectifs de la correction d’une malocclusion de classe II chez l’enfant ou l’adolescent, dont celui du traitement de la rétrognathie mandibulaire. Résultats : Les données publiées montrent que les effets à long terme d’une première phase de traitement sur la quantité de croissance mandibulaire sont, au mieux, faibles et cliniquement non significatifs. Cette donnée permet un changement de paradigme en recentrant le traitement du patient sur l’atteinte d’autres objectifs thérapeutiques. Un dispositif de traitement original, le Correcteur de classe II, est présenté. Ses avantages et son utilisation sont décrits et illustrés au moyen de cas cliniques. Conclusions : Le Correcteur de classe II permet la distalisation des secteurs latéraux maxillaires, limite efficacement les compensations dentoalvéolaires indésirables et facilite la rééducation des fonctions orofaciales. Outre son efficacité clinique, les patients apprécient son faible encombrement, sa facilité de port et son absence d’incidence sur la phonation.
Koronare Herzerkrankung – Unterschiede in Symptomatik und Verlauf bei Männern und Frauen
Authors: Hohmann Christopher , Pfister Roman , Michels Guido
Published: October 2017

According to the federal statistical office, cardiovascular disorders are still the leading cause of death in Germany. Chronic ischemic heart disease and acute myocardial infarction are the most important subgroups. In addition to evidence-based and personalized medicine, in recent years gender medicine has been established as an independent research area. Gender differences are evident in the majority of prevalent diseases, including cardiovascular disorders. The following article provides an insight into the diagnostically and therapeutically specific aspects of coronary heart disease in men and women.
Kann das CT die Katheterangiografie für die Koronardiagnostik ersetzen? – Ja!
Authors: Ullrich Helen , Gori Tommaso
Published: October 2017

The guidelines on the management of stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) recommend the use of coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) in the process of diagnosing coronary artery disease in patients with low intermediate pre-test probability for SCAD. Particularly in cases where stress electrocardiogram or stress imaging provides unclear results, a computed tomographic examination can be considered as a reliable alternative to invasive coronary angiography. Due to its high negative predictive value, coronary CTA can provide accurate information on the presence of coronary artery stenosis and thus coronary artery disease can be reliably excluded without the risks associated with invasive procedures. Similarly, patients with unstable angina or chest pain without typical alterations in the electrocardiogram and without an elevation of troponin can also benefit from a non-invasive coronary CTA-based diagnostics as first approach as it allows ruling out the presence of disease or planning an intervention without the risks associated with a potentially inappropriate invasive approach.
Optimale Diagnostik und Therapie der mikrovaskulären Angina pectoris
Authors: Ong Peter , Sechtem Udo
Published: October 2017

Patients with microvascular angina are characterized by angina pectoris with proof of myocardial ischemia in the absence of any relevant epicardial stenosis and without myocardial disease (type 1 coronary microvascular dysfunction according to Crea and Camici). Structural and functional alterations of the coronary microvessels (diameter < 500 µm) are the reason for this phenomenon. Frequently such alterations are associated with cardiovascular risk factors. Patients with angina pectoris without epicardial stenoses represent for 10 – 50 % of all patients undergoing coronary angiography depending on the clinical presentation. Diagnostic approaches include non-invasive (e. g. combination of coronary CT-angiography and positron emission tomography/echo Doppler-based coronary flow reserve measurements) as well as invasive procedures (coronary flow reserve measurements in response to adenosine, intracoronary acetylcholine testing). Pharmacological treatment of these patients is often challenging and should be based on the characterization of the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, strict risk factor control and individually titrated combinations of antianginal substances (e. g. beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, nitrates, ranolazine, ivabradine etc.) are recommended.
Antiproliferative Activity and Effect on GABAA Receptors of Callitrisic Acid Derivatives
Authors: Stadler Marco , Padrón José , González-Cardenete Miguel
Published: October 2017

The semisynthesis and biological activity of the naturally occurring abietane diterpenoids callitrisic acid (4a; 4-epidehydroabietic acid) and callitrisinol (6) are reported. These compounds and jiadifenoic acid C (5) were obtained from methyl callitrisate (4b) isolated from Sandarac resin for biological evaluation and comparison with the biological activities of C4 epimers such as dehydroabietic acid (2a). In particular, the antiproliferative activity against a panel of six representative human solid tumor cell lines (A549, HBL-100, HeLa, SW1573, T-47D, WiDr) and the effect on GABAA receptors (α
1
β
2
γ
2s) were evaluated. The GI50 values were in the range of 3.4–61 µM and the potentiation of IGABA was 269–311% at 100 µM. Callitrisinol (6) was found to be 6.7-fold more potent than the reference etoposide in the WiDr (colon) cancer cell line. The role of the stereogenic center at C4 for antiproliferative and GABAA receptor modulating activities in the dehydroabietane scaffold has thus been revealed.
Interplay between structural and atomic transport properties of undercooled Al-Cu binary alloys
Authors: Jakse N. , Pasturel A.
Published: October 2017

We perform ab initio molecular dynamics simulations in stable and undercooled Al1-xCux liquids, with copper composition x = 0.3 and 0.4, to examine the relationship between structure and dynamics as a function of temperature. The temperature evolution of the diffusivity, relaxation times and viscosity display a change from an Arrhenius behavior at high temperature to a non-Arrhenius one at low temperature, which occurs at a crossover temperature TX yet in the vicinity of the liquidus temperature. We find that TX corresponds also to an onset of dynamic heterogeneities (DHs) that develop in the undercooled states. The structure factors and pair-correlation functions display characteristic features compatible with the occurrence of the icosahedral short-range order (ISRO) as well as the development of a medium range order (MRO) upon cooling. A common neighbor analysis further identifies that ISRO undergoes a strong increase below TX. Finally, we demonstrate that the medium-range order is formed by interconnected fivefold bipyramids and is correlated with the emergence of DHs.
Optimization of coupled plasmonic effects for viable phosphorescence of metal-free purely organic phosphor
Authors: Wang Huan , Jung Jaehun , Chung Kyungwha , Lim Ju Won , You Youngmin , Kim Jinsang , Kim Dong Ha
Published: October 2017

Metal-free purely organic phosphorescent molecules are attractive alternatives to organometallic and inorganic counterparts because of their low cost and readily tunable optical properties through a wide chemical design window. However, their weak phosphorescent intensity due to inefficient spin-orbit coupling and, consequently, prevailing non-radiative decay processes limit their practical applicability. Here, we systematically studied phosphorescence emission enhancement of a purely organic phosphor system via plasmon resonance energy transfer. By precisely tuning the distance between purely organic phosphor crystals and plasmonic nanostructures using layer-by-layer assembled polyelectrolyte multilayers as a dielectric spacer, maximum 2.8 and 2.5 times enhancement in photoluminescence intensity was observed when the phosphor crystals were coupled with ∼55 nm AuNPs and ∼7 nm AgNPs, respectively, at the distance of 9.6 nm. When the distance is within the range of 3 nm, a dramatic decrease in phosphorescence intensity was observed, while at a larger distance, the plasmonic effect diminished rapidly. The distance-dependent plasmon-induced phosphorescence enhancement mechanism was further investigated by time-resolved photoluminescence measurements. Our results reveal the correlation between the amplification efficiency and plasmonic band, spatial factor, and spectral characteristics of the purely organic phosphor, which may provide an insightful picture to extend the utility of organic phosphors by using surface plasmon-induced emission enhancement scheme.
Order-order transitions of diblock copolymer melts under cylindrical confinement
Authors: Liu Meijiao , Li Weihua , Wang Xinping
Published: October 2017

The self-assembly behavior of AB diblock copolymers under cylindrical confinement is investigated using the self-consistent field theory. We focus on the impact of the confinement on the order-order transitions of three-dimensional morphologies by constructing two types of phase diagrams with continuously varying block compositions. One type is with respect to the block composition and the immiscibility parameter for various pore sizes, in which the order-order transitions are shown to be strongly impacted by the pore curvature and thus largely different from the bulk ones. Note that the morphologies are categorized by the intrinsical geometry of their domains, i.e., that helical morphologies are regarded as one type of cylindrical phase. Another type of phase diagram is with respect to the block composition and the pore diameter, which exhibits a number of interesting order-order transitions, especially the transition sequence from a straight line of spheres, to one straight cylinder and stacked disks as the pore diameter increases. A critical point is observed at which the stability region of the straight cylinder vanishes and thereby the spheres transform into the stacked disks continuously. The mechanism of these phase transitions is rationalized in the context of the bulk factors as well as an additional factor, i.e., the competition between the spontaneous curvature of the copolymer and the imposed curvature by the nanopore.
CSIRO High-precision Measurement of Atmospheric CO2 Concentration in Australia. Part 1: Initial Motivation, Techniques and Aircraft Sampling
Authors: Pearman Graeme I. , Garratt John R. , Fraser Paul J.
Published: October 2017

The potential for carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere to influence global surface temperatures was first recognized in the mid-nineteenth century. Even so, high-precision measurements of atmospheric CO2 concentration were not commenced until the International Geophysical Year (1957–8), following concerns of the climatic impact of increased use of fossil fuels and the concomitant release of CO2 into the atmosphere.
In Australia, an early (1960s–70s) interest in the high-precision measurement of CO2 concentration was stimulated by a study of the photosynthesis and respiration of awheat crop. This study conducted in north-easternVictoria during 19717–2 led two young CSIRO scientists, J. R. Garratt and G. I. Pearman, encouraged by their Chief, C. H. B. Priestley, to extend micro-environment CO2 studies to larger-scale measurements of CO2 concentration in the background atmosphere. The significant extension of the observation programme required refined measurement techniques to improve both the precision and absolute comparability with observations made by laboratories overseas. Joined in 1974 by P. J. Fraser, they identified the impact of pressure broadening on calibration techniques used in the non-dispersive infrared absorption method of CO2 concentration measurement. This, in turn, led to improved inter-comparability of CO2 concentration data collected around the globe.
Acomprehensive aircraft-based air sampling programmewas established in the early 1970s, leading to increased understanding of the time and space variability of CO2 concentration throughout the depth of the troposphere and lower stratosphere in the mid-latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere. In turn this led to: (i) the establishment of a permanent ground-based observatory at Cape Grim, north-western Tasmania; (ii) the development of carbon cycle models; and (iii) measurements of 12CO2, 13CO2 and 14CO2 relative abundances in current and past atmospheres, the last from air samples trapped in ice cores (described in Part 2,
the companion paper).
The accumulated data from these studies, together with those collected by international colleagues, form the basis of our understanding of the changes of CO2 concentration over thousands of years. In addition, the data have contributed to our understanding of the mechanisms of past and present biogeochemical cycling of CO2 that provides the predictive basis for future changes in CO2 concentration.
Application of ecosystem-based analytic tools to evaluate natural resource damage and environmental impact assessments in the ROPME Sea Area
Authors: Reilly Timothy J. , McCay Deborah French , Grant Jon R. , Rowe Jill
Published: October 2017

Given the fragmented political jurisdictions, and substantive environmental damages from petroleum spillage, human development and other anthropogenic perturbations, a need exists for developing a coordinated set of protocols and approaches for determining impacts to activities exerting extra-territorial environmental and ecological pressures on coastal and offshore natural resources in the ROPME Sea Area (RSA; also known as the Gulf), as well as strategies for restoring (or mitigating) natural resources by human activities. Such environmental impact assessment and natural resource damage assessment protocols may readily be developed at the ecosystem level to directly inform localized coastal and marine resource decision-making by resource managers with harmonization to the Gulf level. Instead of traditional methods for gauging environmental impacts (or damages) on a single resource or habitat, impacts of anthropogenic activities may be reviewed on an ecosystem level with a focus on services provided by ecosystem components. This way, relative impacts to ecosystem services can be evaluated in order to determine the overall impacts to the system as a whole, rather than simply to a few targeted resources that exclude critical ecosystem components, functions and services. Examples of such methodologies are discussed in the context of international case studies. Considerations, limitations and strategies for adopting these ecosystem based approaches are presented.
Sabah Al-Ahmad Sea City Kuwait: development of a sustainable man-made coastal ecosystem in a saline desert
Authors: Jones D. A. , Nithyanandan M. , Williams I.
Published: October 2017

The coastal ecosystems of the northwestern Arabian Gulf mostly consist of low lying tidal flats backed by hyper saline marsh (sabkha) and desert. As populations increased, much of this coast has been subject to infill and seaward extension for housing, recreation and industrial development. This has led to degradation of the highly productive intertidal and shallow subtidal marine ecosystems upon which fisheries depend. Further degradation can be expected with future sea level rise, as high evaporation rates will induce hyper saline conditions.

Rather than building out into the sea using dredging and infill, an alternative approach is to construct cities on land, safely above future high water levels, by excavating saline desert of low productivity to create marine waterways. Sabah Al-Ahmad Sea City in Kuwait was first connected to the sea in 2004 and, with 3 phases completed, now has 84 km of shoreline in the desert. The waterway system was modeled before excavation and relies solely upon tides and wind for seawater circulation. To date seawater quality has been excellent, meeting all criteria demanded by the Environment Public Authority.

Within the waterways, a full range of man-made marine habitats have been created. These include intertidal beaches, tidal flats, mangrove and salt marshes on islands, together with subtidal sand and rock benthic habitats. These have been monitored with daily physical and annual biological surveys. Importantly, this data provides new information on the natural colonization rates and development of Gulf soft substrate intertidal and subtidal marine communities. Within 5 years of opening to the sea, all artificially created marine habitats have a species richness and abundance close to, or exceeding, that of similar open sea natural habitats in Kuwait. Over 1000 species of macrobiota now exist within the desert waterways including 100 species of fish and shellfish. Present work describes the development of these marine communities and provides a baseline for recruitment rates of Gulf marine fauna into non-polluted habitats.
Trace metal speciation in marine sediments from Sulaibikhat Bay, Kuwait
Authors: Alshemmari Hassan , Ali Lulwa , Alotaibi Yousef
Published: October 2017

The chemical speciation of trace metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn) in marine sediments from Sulaibikhat Bay, Kuwait was determined using a three-step sequential extraction procedure. To obtain a mass balance, a fourth step, i.e. digestion and analysis of the residue was undertaken using a microwave-assisted acid digestion procedure. The sum of the 4 steps (acid-soluble + reducible + oxidizable + residual) was in good agreement with the total content (71–116%), suggesting that the microwave extraction procedure is efficient. The results showed that all metals except for Pb and Zn were present at higher percentages in the residual fraction. The reducible fraction was the next followed by the oxidizable fraction. The exchangeable fraction was least important as a host for most metals. The mobility order of exchangeable fraction of the elements in surface sediments decreased in the order Cd > Zn > Cu > Co > Pb > Ni > Cr; the reducible fraction in the order Pb > Zn > Cu > Cd > Co > Ni > Cr; the oxidizable fraction in the order Pb > Cu > Cd > Ni > Co > Zn > Cr, and the residual fraction in the order Cr > Ni > Co > Cu > Cd > Zn > Pb. The data showed that the speciation of trace elements in sediments close to a sewage outfall was different from that of sediment from other parts of Sulaibikhat Bay. This suggests that the contribution of the sewage outfall to metal pollution in adjacent marine area is positive and is associated with fine-grained sediments with high level of organic content, which are major controlling factors for the distribution of trace metals in this part of the Bay.
The occurrence of algal blooms in Omani coastal waters
Authors: Al-Azri Adnan , Piontkovski Sergey , Al-Hashmi Khalid , Al-Gheilani Hamed , Al-Habsi Harib , Al-Khusaibi Salem , Al-Azri Nasser
Published: October 2017

Monthly sampling of phytoplankton, chlorophyll a, temperature, salinity and nutrients was carried out in the Sea of Oman and in the Arabian Sea, from 2004 and onwards. In addition to time series data, historical data from 1976 to 2003 were collected from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Wealth reports. Annual averages of algal blooms occurrence along the coast of Oman showed three major components of seasonal and interannual fluctuations- the seasonal cycle, interannual fluctuations with approximate period of 8 years, and the interannual rising tendency. The dominant algal blooms species comprise both diatoms and dinoflagellates, with obvious dominance of Noctiluca scintillans followed by Cochlodinium polykrikoides and Prorocentrum sp.
A review of environment problems in the coastal sea of South China
Authors: Han Qiuying , Huang Xiaoping , Xing Qianguo , Shi Ping
Published: October 2017

The coastal sea of South China provided an important habitat for protection and propagation of marine organisms. Rapid economic development and human activities, such as wastewater discharge, reclamation, overfishing and aquaculture in the South China Sea had already resulted in environmental degradation, and thus caused sharp contradictions between exploitation and protection of the coastal sea of South China. In this present article, the main environment problems and degradation trends were reviewed based on literatures and other sources of information, which mainly referenced nutrient pollution, persistent organic pollution and metal pollution, decrease of biodiversity, reduction of marine habitat and frequent natural and ecological disasters. The current efforts in China on protecting the environment in the coastal sea of South China were discussed, which included improving legislation by formulating a series of laws and regulations at national or local level, setting up natural reserves, and supporting research projects. There were many challenges regarding policy, management and science research to protect and sustain the coastal sea of South China, such as imperfect legal and administrative systems, lack of public participation, poor financial support and lack of monitoring and evaluation. Finally, some recommendations were put forward for the sake of the sustainable use of the environment in the coastal sea of South China, including reinforcing the planning of marine resource exploitation and use through integrated coastal zone management, strengthening the marine environment and protection awareness of the public, and scientifically establishing the fishery spawning spots and aquatic reserves.
Coral bleaching caused by an abnormal water temperature rise at Luhuitou fringing reef, Sanya Bay, China
Authors: Li Xiubao , Liu Sheng , Huang Hui , Huang Liangmin , Jing Zhiyou , Zhang Chenglong
Published: October 2017

Luhuitou fringing reef, which has been seriously affected by human activities and terrestrial runoff, has degraded quickly in recent decades. However, direct impact by hyperthermal stress has probably been minimal because of the influence of the Qiongdong upwelling in summer. Seawater temperature anomalies in 2010 resulted in mean monthly seawater temperatures in summer to be 1–2°C higher than in the same period of the 3 preceding years. Moderate coral bleaching at Luhuitou fringing reef was observed in the summer of 2010 due to high thermal stress. Montipora was the most susceptible taxon, whereas Galaxea fascicularis and Pocillopora damicornis were among the least susceptible taxa. Mortality of Montipora was 21.7%, whereas for the remaining taxa it was less than 5%. No mortality was observed for tabular Acropora, G. fascicularis, P. damicornis, Favites and Leptoria. Most taxa showed relatively high bleaching in larger colonies compared with that in smaller ones. Juvenile coral colonies showed less bleaching (3%) than adult coral colonies (28%). Our study suggested that although most taxa in the survey area might recover from this moderate coral bleaching episode, coral reproduction in the year following bleaching may be adversely affected.
Effects of chlorophyll on upper ocean temperature and circulation in the upwelling regions of the South China Sea
Authors: Ma Jinfeng , Liu Hailong , Zhan Haigang , Lin Pengfei , Du Yan
Published: October 2017

The effects of chlorophyll on upper ocean temperature and circulation in the two upwelling regions of the South China Sea are investigated by comparing results of two experiments using the solar radiation penetration scheme with and without the effects of chlorophyll. In boreal winter, the sea surface temperature anomalies were negligible with the existence of chlorophyll throughout most of the South China Sea because of the deep mixed layer. The strong mixing stirred by surface winds brings the cold water into the mixed layer and cancels out heating due to the effect of chlorophyll. In boreal summer, the high chlorophyll concentration in the upwelling region southeast of Vietnam cools the upwelling water below the mixed layer and leads to lower sea surface temperatures. The present study confirms the processes proposed by previous studies in the equatorial Pacific that indicate that the mixed layer depth is important to the response of the surface temperature and current to biological heating.