bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into the Vitis complex in the Danube floodplain (Austria)
Authors: Arnold Claire , Bachmann Olivier , Schnitzler Annik
Published: August 2017

European grapevine populations quickly disappeared from most of their range, massively killed by the spread of North American grapevine pests and diseases. Nowadays taxonomic pollution represents a new threat. A large Vitis complex involves escaped cultivars, rootstocks, and wild grapevines. The study aimed to provide insight into the Vitis complex in the Danube region through field and genetic analyses. Among the five other major rivers in Europe which still host wild grapevine populations, the Danube floodplain is the only one benefiting from an extensive protected forest area (93 km²) and an relatively active dynamic flood pulse. The Donau‐Auen National Park also regroups the largest wild grapevine population in Europe. Ninety‐two percent of the individuals collected in the park were true wild grapevines, and 8% were hybrids and introgressed individuals of rootstocks, wild grapevines, and cultivars. These three groups are interfertile acting either as pollen donor or receiver. Hybrids were established within and outside the dykes, mostly in anthropized forest edges. The best‐developed individuals imply rootstock genes. They establish in the most erosive parts of the floodplain. 42% of the true wild grapevines lived at the edges of forest/meadow, 33.3% at the edges forest/channels, and 23.9% in forest gaps. DBH (Diameter Breast Height) varied significantly with the occurrence of flooding. Clones were found in both true wild and hybrids/introgressed grapevines. The process of cloning seemed to be prevented in places where flooding dynamics is reduced. The current global distribution of true wild grapevines shows a strong tendency toward clustering, in sites where forestry practices were the most extensive. However, the reduced flooding activity is a danger for long‐term sustainability of the natural wild grapevine population.
Quantifying ecosystem service trade‐offs for plantation forest management to benefit provisioning and regulating services
Authors: Dai Er‐fu , Wang Xiao‐li , Zhu Jian‐jia , Xi Wei‐min
Published: August 2017

There is increasing interest worldwide regarding managing plantation forests in a manner that maintains or improves timber production, enhances ecosystem services, and promotes long‐term sustainability of forest resources. We selected the Gan River Basin, the largest catchment of Poyang Lake and a region with a typical plantation distribution in South China, as the study region. We evaluated and mapped four important forest ecosystem services, including wood volume, carbon storage, water yield, and soil retention at a 30 × 30 m resolution, then quantified their trade‐offs and synergies at the county and subwatershed scales. We found that the wood volume and carbon storage services, as well as the soil retention and water yield, exhibited synergistic relationships. However, the carbon storage displayed a trade‐off relationship with the water yield. Additionally, we compared the beneficial spatial characteristics among dominant species in the study region. The results showed that the Chinese fir forest and the pine forest exhibited lower overall benefits than natural forests including the broad‐leaved forest and the bamboo forest. To propose a suitable management strategy for the study region, method of spatial cluster analysis was used based on the four eco‐services at the subwatershed scale. The basin was divided into four management groups instead of treating the region as a homogenous management region. Finally, we proposed more specific and diverse management strategies to optimize forest benefits throughout the entire region.
Rare‐Earth Complexes Coordinated by ansa‐Bis(amidinate) Ligands with m‐Phenylene, 2,6‐Pyridinediyl, and SiMe2 Linkers
Authors: Skvortsov Grigorii G. , Tolpygin Aleksei O. , Fukin Georgy K. , Long Jérôme , Larionova Joulia , Cherkasov Anton V. , Trifonov Alexander A.
Published: August 2017

The salt‐metathesis reactions of anhydrous LnCl3 (Ln = Y, Er) with [1,3‐C6H4{NC(Ph)NSiMe3}2Li2(thf)2]2 (1; thf = tetrahydrofuran) in a 2:1 molar ratio in thf afford tris(amidinate) complexes [(1,3‐C6H4{NC(Ph)NSiMe3}2)3Y(thf)Y(µ‐Cl)Li(thf)3] (3) and [(1,3‐C6H4{NC(Ph)NSiMe3}2)3Er2(µ‐Cl)Li(thf)3] (4), which feature bridging coordination of the amidinate ligands to two Ln3+ ions. The reactions of the dilithium derivative of the related bis(amidine) with a 2,6‐pyridinediyl linker, [2,6‐C5H3N{NC(tBu)N(2,6‐Me2C6H3)}2]2–, with LnCl3 (Ln = Y, Er) result in the formation of mononuclear chlorido bis(ligand) ate complexes [{(2,6‐C5H3N)(NC{tBu}N{2,6‐Me2C6H3})2}({2,6‐C5H3N}{NC(tBu)N(2,6‐Me2C6H3)}{NC(tBu)NH(2,6‐Me2C6H3)})LnCl][Li(dme)3] [Ln = Y (5), Er (6); dme = 1,2‐dimethoxyethane]. The Ln3+ ions in these complexes are coordinated by one dianionic tridentate amidopyridinate–amidinate ligand, and the second ligand is a monoanionic amidopyridinate. The reaction of YbCl3 with [(Me2Si{NC(Ph)N(2,6‐iPr2C6H3)}2)2Li3][Li(thf)4], which contains a short SiMe2 linker, in a 2:1 molar ratio in thf afforded the bis(amidinate)chloridoytterbium complex [(Me2Si{NC(Ph)N(2,6‐iPr2C6H3)}2)2(Yb2Cl)(µ‐Cl)2Li(thf)3] (8). The magnetic properties of 4 were investigated through superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry.
Mixed‐Ligand Titanium “Oxo Clusters”: Structural Insights into the Formation and Binding of Organic Molecules and Transformation into Oxide Nanostructures on Hydrolysis and Thermolysis
Authors: Svensson Fredric G. , Seisenbaeva Gulaim A. , Kessler Vadim G.
Published: August 2017

We present the structure of a new tetranuclear titanium oxo complex containing the antibacterial agent triclosan. This provides a good model for the interaction between triclosan and titania, which may be used for drug‐delivery applications. The antibacterial activity of the hydrolyzed complex against Staphylococcus aureus is investigated. Thereafter, we use the obtained titanium oxo complex to demonstrate its susceptibility towards hydrolysis, contrary to the widespread belief that titanium oxo complexes are water‐stable, and demonstrate that it transforms into titania (anatase) on contact with water. Both hydrolysis and thermolysis of the complex yield titania particles, of very uniform size and shape, that connect into 3D nanostructures; this is of interest for practical applications.
Synthesis and Applicability of Base‐Discriminating DNA‐Triplex‐Forming 19F NMR Probes
Authors: Bhuma Naresh , Tähtinen Ville , Virta Pasi
Published: August 2017

Phosphoramidite building blocks of CF3‐modified N4(6‐amino‐2‐pyridinyl)deoxycytidines were synthesized, incorporated into triplex‐forming 2′‐deoxyoligonucleotide strands and the applicability of the probes to recognize nucleobase content in the pyrimidine‐rich strand of double‐helical DNA targets was evaluated. As expected, the obtained 19F NMR resonances were sensitive to the base content and unique 19F NMR spectral fingerprints could be obtained.
A covalent capillary coating of diazoresin and polyglycerol dendrimer for protein analysis using capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Yu Bing , Wang Minghong , Cong Hailin , Li Guoling
Published: August 2017

Overcoming proteins adsorption on the inner surface of capillary has attracted increasing attention recently. By using the unique photochemistry reaction of diazoresin (DR), a new covalent capillary coating was prepared on the fused‐silica capillary through layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly of DR with polyglycerol (PG) dendrimer. The separation performance of covalently DR/PG‐dendrimer coated capillary noticeably exceeded the bare capillary and the noncovalently linked DR/PG‐dendrimer capillary. A baseline separation of lysozyme, myoglobin, bovine serum albumin, and ribonuclease A was achieved using CE within 20 min. Besides, the covalently linked DR/PG‐dendrimer coating has the remarkable stability and reproducibility. Especially, compared with the traditional method which use highly toxic and moisture‐sensitive silane coupling agent, this method seems to be a simple and environmental friendly way to prepare the covalently coated capillaries for CE.
Carbon Derived from Pine Needles as a Na+‐Storage Electrode Material in Dual‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Zheng Cheng , Qi Li , Wang Hongyu
Published: August 2017

Pine needles are used as the precursor material to prepare hard carbon. Scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and N2 adsorption–desorption tests are carried out to characterize the surface, crystal, and pore structure of the material. The pine needle derived carbon (PNC) exhibits excellent Na‐ion storage ability. A dual‐ion battery of PNC/graphite using a Na+‐based organic electrolyte is constructed. The batteries display outstanding electrochemical performance: a superior energy density (200 Wh kg−1 at 131 W kg−1), high cut‐off voltage (4.7 V), and outstanding cycling stability (87.2% retention after 1000 cycles). In addition, the separate responses of the cathode and anode are investigated.
Work‐life support practices and customer satisfaction: The role of TMT composition and country culture
Authors: Cogin Julie A. , Sanders Karin , Williamson Ian O.
Published: August 2017

Despite the growing prevalence of work‐life support (WLS) practices in companies, there is a lack of theoretical and empirical clarity on their benefits to organizational performance. It is also unclear if the organizational performance effects of WLS practices vary based on an organization's internal and external environments. The dual objective of this paper is to investigate whether WLS practices relate to customer‐focused outcomes and, if so, under which conditions WLS practices yield benefits. Drawing on contingency theory, we examine how the boundary conditions of internal firm characteristics (e.g., percentage of top management team [TMT] members with children) and external environmental factors (e.g., gender egalitarianism of the country) moderate the relationship between WLS practices and customer satisfaction. We shed light on these issues by examining multisource, longitudinal data collected over three years from a multinational corporation operating in 27 countries. The results show that both percentage of TMT members with children and gender egalitarianism of the country strengthen the relationship between WLS practices and customer satisfaction. The findings provide insights into the circumstances when WLS practices provide performance benefits for firms and the translatability of these benefits from one country to another.
Pixel classification method in optical coherence tomography for tumor segmentation and its complementary usage with OCT microangiography
Authors: Moiseev Alexander , Snopova Ludmila , Kuznetsov Sergey , Buyanova Natalia , Elagin Vadim , Sirotkina Marina , Kiseleva Elena , Matveev Lev , Zaitsev Vladimir , Feldchtein Felix , Zagaynova Elena , Gelikonov Valentin , Gladkova Natalia , Vitkin Alex , Gelikonov Grigory
Published: August 2017

A novel machine‐learning method to distinguish between tumor and normal tissue in optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been developed. Pre‐clinical murine ear model implanted with mouse colon carcinoma CT‐26 was used. Structural‐image‐based feature sets were defined for each pixel and machine learning classifiers were trained using “ground truth” OCT images manually segmented by comparison with histology. The accuracy of the OCT tumor segmentation method was then quantified by comparing with fluorescence imaging of tumors expressing genetically encoded fluorescent protein KillerRed that clearly delineates tumor borders. Because the resultant 3D tumor/normal structural maps are inherently co‐registered with OCT derived maps of tissue microvasculature, the latter can be color coded as belonging to either tumor or normal tissue. Applications to radiomics‐based multimodal OCT analysis are envisioned.
In Situ Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles for Ag‐NP/Cotton Nanocomposite and Its Bactericidal Effect
Authors: Parham Shokoh , Nemati Mahdieh , Sadir Sahba , Bagherbaigi Saeedeh , Wicaksono Dedy H.B. , Nur Hadi
Published: August 2017

For years, nanotechnology has been considered as an important field that has opened new opportunities for extensive research. In biomedical applications, of all the metal nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) have played an important role because of their antibacterial properties. Ag‐NPs have been demonstrated to possess antibacterial properties in many applications. However, the minimum number of NPs required on the surface to prevent bacterial growth is yet to be determined. It is worthwhile studying the decrease of bacterial growth rate or the level of inhibition as a function of the size or density of NPs. Therefore, in this paper we discuss the size of the NPs that can stimulate the bactericidal property. It should also be noted that NPs larger than 100 nm might not be effective against bacteria. Moreover, this study employs polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and cellulose as reductants to form strong covalent bonds under UV light, which can help synthesize Ag‐NP/cotton nanocomposites. This type of nanocomposite displays high cell viability and improved antimicrobial activity. A fairly simple application involves the use of UV light to increase particle distribution and impart bactericidal property.
Struvite precipitation and COD reduction in a two‐step treatment of olive mill wastewater
Authors: Pantziaros Alexis G , Jaho Sofia , Karga Isidora , Iakovides Iakovos C , Koutsoukos Petros G , Paraskeva Christakis A
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

In the present work, a combination of several physicochemical methods has been applied aiming at recovering phosphorus from olive mill wastewater (OMW) in the form of struvite (NH4MgPO4·6H2O, MAP) and at the same time achieving reduction of the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the wastes. Phosphorus is a valuable raw material used for the production of fertilizers and numerous other products.

RESULTS

The experiments were conducted in a two‐stage process, over a pH range between 5 and 10. The first step consisted of a batch process, in which MgCl2 or MgSO4 were used as coagulants of suspended particles of the OMW. During the second step, a nitrogen source (NH4OH(aq)) was added to the supernatant and solid precipitation took place without delay. The measured COD values of the fluid phase of the OMW was reduced by up to 73% of the initial value, while the final crystalline product consisted of a mixture of struvite and dittmarite (NH4MgPO4·H2O).

CONCLUSION

Over 90% dissolved phosphorus recovery from OMW samples in the form of struvite was achieved through the application of a two‐step process together with a significant reduction of the COD of initial raw wastewaters. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Oxalate degradation by alkaliphilic biofilms acclimatised to nitrogen‐supplemented and nitrogen‐deficient conditions
Authors: Weerasinghe Mohottige Tharanga N , Cheng Ka Yu , Kaksonen Anna H , Sarukkalige Ranjan , Ginige Maneesha P
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Sodium oxalate is a key organic contaminant in alumina industry, which diminishes process yields and product quality. Given that Bayer process liquor is typically deficient in nitrogen (N), there is external supplementation of N in current full‐scale biological treatment processes. This study, for the first time, examines oxalate degradation under N deficient conditions using two parallel biofilm‐reactors, one N‐supplemented and the other under N‐deficient conditions. Oxalate degradation rates and oxygen uptake rates (OUR) were determined at different bulk water dissolved oxygen (DO) set‐points.

RESULTS

The results revealed that oxalate removal rates (33–111 mg h‐1 g‐1biomass) linearly correlate with OUR (0–70 mg O2 h‐1 g‐1biomass) in the N‐supplemented reactor. However, in the N‐deficient reactor, a linear increase of oxalate removal was recorded only with DO up to 3 mg L‐1. Surprisingly, anaerobic oxalate removal was evident even in the presence of DO (up to 8 mg L‐1) in both reactors. Further elucidation revealed formate, acetate and methane by‐products during anaerobic oxalate removal in both reactors.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed the feasibility of aerobic oxalate oxidation and fermentation under alkaline and N‐deficient conditions. Further, this study confirms the critical role of DO in aerobic oxalate biodegradation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Optimization of sulfide‐based autotrophic denitrification process in an anaerobic baffled reactor
Authors: Duyar Ahmet , Ozdemir Sebnem , Akman Dilek , Akgul Vildan , Sahinkaya Erkan , Cirik Kevser
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

High SO42‐, COD, and nitrogen‐containing wastewater treatment requires different bacterial groups and environmental conditions, which can be achieved by sequential separate processes. This study examined the simultaneous removal of SO42‐, COD and nitrogen in a four‐compartment ABR, which allowed enrichment of different group of bacteria in each compartment. Feed COD and SO42‐ concentrations were kept constant at 1200 and 1500 mg L‐1, corresponding to COD/SO4‐2 ratio of 0.8. Initially, ABR was tested at varying influent ammonium concentrations (25–1500 mg NH4+‐N/L). Further, the third compartment of ABR was supplemented with nitrate under varying loading rates (60–300 mgNO3‐N L‐1 d‐1) for autotrophic denitrification with the sulfide produced in the previous compartments. This kind of application mimicked the internal recirculation of nitrate, which can be generated via nitrification of ABR effluent.

RESULTS

High sulfate reduction efficiencies (over 86%) were observed up to 1000 mg L‐1 NH4+‐N, however, 1500 mg L‐1 NH4+‐N caused decrease in reduction efficiency. Optimum nitrate loading rate was determined as 146 mgNO3‐N L‐1 d‐1 at molar N/S ratio of 0.42, corresponding with 100% nitrate, 83% sulfate, and 79% COD removals. Nitrate removal decreased at higher nitrate loadings and high sulfate generation arising from sulfide oxidation was observed.

CONCLUSION

Sulfate and COD removals together with efficient sulfide‐based autotrophic denitrification succeeded in a single reactor configuration at S/N ratio of 0.42. The developed process has the potential to be used in lab‐scale applications. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Training intraverbal bidirectional naming to establish generalized equivalence class performances
Authors: Jennings Adrienne M. , Miguel Caio F.
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of tact and intraverbal training on the establishment of generalized equivalence classes. Seventeen college students were exposed to tact training, listener testing, and intraverbal training (A'B’ and B'C’) in two experiments. Visual–visual matching‐to‐sample and intraverbal tests measured performances consistent with the formation of equivalence classes. Generalization was assessed with four novel sets of stimuli. In the second experiment, matching‐to‐sample tests for baseline relations (AB, BC) were eliminated to control for the possibility that equivalence classes were developed through exposure to these visual stimulus–stimulus relations. Thirteen of 17 participants passed all matching‐to‐sample and intraverbal posttests. Results suggest that when trained and emergent intraverbal relations were not maintained or were faulty, participants did not respond correctly during matching‐to‐sample posttests.
Unlocking the Household ‘Black Box’: A Gendered Analysis of Smallholder Farmers' Participation in the Cassava (Manihot esculenta crantz) Value Chain in Tanzania
Authors: Masamha Blessing , Thebe Vusilizwe , Uzokwe Veronica N.E.
Published: August 2017

Women in developing countries are often omitted from key parts of the agricultural value chains. We used household survey data in bi‐probit and ordinary least squares regression models to estimate the determinants of women's participation in cassava cultivation and marketing in Tanzania. Land size and region, among other factors, were significant determinants of household decisions to grow cassava. Policies for improving women's land rights and infrastructure would help to promote their participation in cassava production, processing and marketing. Improved methods of delivering extension information would also improve women's participation in the cassava value chain markets. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular insights into Aβ42 protofibril destabilization with a fluorinated compound D744: A molecular dynamics simulation study
Authors: Saini Rajneet Kaur , Shuaib Suniba , Goyal Bhupesh
Published: August 2017

The aggregation of amyloid β‐peptide (Aβ42) into toxic oligomers, fibrils, has been identified as a key process in Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. The role of halogen‐substituted compounds have been highlighted in the disassembly of Aβ protofibril. However, the underlying inhibitory mechanism of Aβ42 protofibril destabilization remains elusive. In this regard, a combined molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed to elucidate the inhibitory mechanism of a fluorinated compound, D744, which has been reported previously for potential in vitro and in vivo inhibitory activity against Aβ42 aggregation and reduction in the Aβ‐induced cytotoxicity. The molecular docking analysis highlights that D744 binds and interacts with chain A of the protofibril structure with hydrophobic contacts and orthogonal multipolar interaction. MD simulations reveal destabilization of the protofibril structure in the presence of D744 due to the decrease in β‐sheet content and a concomitant increase of coil and bend structures, increase in the interchain D23‐K28 salt bridge distance, decrease in the number of backbone hydrogen bonds, increase in the average distance between Cα atoms, and decrease in the binding affinity between chains A and B of the protofibril structure. The binding free‐energy analysis between D744 and the protofibril structure with Molecular Mechanics Poisson‐Boltzmann Surface Area (MM‐PBSA) reveal that residues Leu17, Val18, Phe19, Phe20, Ala21, Glu22, Asp23, Leu34, Val36, Gly37, and Gly38 of chain A of the protofibril structure contribute maximum towards binding free energy (ΔGbinding = −44.87 kcal/mol). The insights into the underlying inhibitory mechanism of small molecules that show potential in vitro anti‐aggregation activity against Aβ42 will be beneficial for the current and future AD therapeutic studies.
MRI proton density fat fraction is robust across the biologically plausible range of triglyceride spectra in adults with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Hong Cheng William , Mamidipalli Adrija , Hooker Jonathan C. , Hamilton Gavin , Wolfson Tanya , Chen Dennis H. , Fazeli Dehkordy Soudabeh , Middleton Michael S. , Reeder Scott B. , Loomba Rohit , Sirlin Claude B.
Published: August 2017

Background

Proton density fat fraction (PDFF) estimation requires spectral modeling of the hepatic triglyceride (TG) signal. Deviations in the TG spectrum may occur, leading to bias in PDFF quantification.

Purpose

To investigate the effects of varying six‐peak TG spectral models on PDFF estimation bias.

Study Type

Retrospective secondary analysis of prospectively acquired clinical research data.

Population

Forty‐four adults with biopsy‐confirmed nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.

Field Strength/Sequence

Confounder‐corrected chemical‐shift‐encoded 3T MRI (using a 2D multiecho gradient‐recalled echo technique with magnitude reconstruction) and MR spectroscopy.

Assessment

In each patient, 61 pairs of colocalized MRI‐PDFF and MRS‐PDFF values were estimated: one pair used the standard six‐peak spectral model, the other 60 were six‐peak variants calculated by adjusting spectral model parameters over their biologically plausible ranges. MRI‐PDFF values calculated using each variant model and the standard model were compared, and the agreement between MRI‐PDFF and MRS‐PDFF was assessed.

Statistical Tests

MRS‐PDFF and MRI‐PDFF were summarized descriptively. Bland–Altman (BA) analyses were performed between PDFF values calculated using each variant model and the standard model. Linear regressions were performed between BA biases and mean PDFF values for each variant model, and between MRI‐PDFF and MRS‐PDFF.

Results

Using the standard model, mean MRS‐PDFF of the study population was 17.9 ± 8.0% (range: 4.1–34.3%). The difference between the highest and lowest mean variant MRI‐PDFF values was 1.5%. Relative to the standard model, the model with the greatest absolute BA bias overestimated PDFF by 1.2%. Bias increased with increasing PDFF (P < 0.0001 for 59 of the 60 variant models). MRI‐PDFF and MRS‐PDFF agreed closely for all variant models (R2 = 0.980, P < 0.0001).

Data Conclusion

Over a wide range of hepatic fat content, PDFF estimation is robust across the biologically plausible range of TG spectra. Although absolute estimation bias increased with higher PDFF, its magnitude was small and unlikely to be clinically meaningful.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:995–1002.
Cytolytic virus activation therapy and treatment monitoring for Epstein‐Barr virus associated nasopharyngeal carcinoma in a mouse tumor model
Authors: Novalić Zlata , Verkuijlen Sandra A. W. M. , Verlaan Mariska , Eersels Jos L. H. , de Greeuw Inge , Molthoff Carla F. M. , Middeldorp Jaap M. , Greijer Astrid E.
Published: August 2017

Undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is 100% associated with Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV). Expression of viral proteins in the tumor cells is highly restricted. EBV reactivation by CytoLytic Virus Activation (CLVA) therapy triggers de novo expression of early viral kinases (PK and TK) and uses antiviral treatment to kill activated cells. The mechanism of tumor elimination by CLVA was analyzed in NPC mouse model using C666.1 cells. Valproic acid (VPA) was combined with gemcitabine (GCb) to stimulate EBV reactivation, followed by antiviral treatment with ganciclovir (GCV). A single cycle of CLVA treatment resulted in specific tumor cell killing as indicated by reduced tumor volume, loss of EBV‐positive cells in situ, and paralleled by decreased EBV DNA levels in circulation, which was more pronounced than treatment with GCb alone. In vivo reactivation was confirmed by presence of lytic gene transcripts and proteins in tumors 6 days after GCb/VPA treatment. Virus reactivation was visualized by [124I]‐FIAU accumulation in tumors using PET‐scan. This studied showed that CLVA therapy is a potent EBV‐specific targeting approach for killing tumor cells. The [124I]‐FIAU appears valuable as PET tracer for studies on CLVA drug dosage and kinetics in vivo, and may find clinical application in treatment monitoring.
Chronic hepatitis B virus infection and preterm labor(birth) in pregnant women—an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ma Xiaosong , Sun Dehong , Li Chuansheng , Ying Jie , Yan Youde
Published: August 2017

We aimed to explore whether maternal chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection certainly affects preterm labor (birth) in pregnant women. Four databases were systematically searched up to May 31, 2017, without language restriction. Any study was included if it clearly defined exposure to chronic HBV infection, reported risk of preterm labor or birth in pregnant women, and reported relative risks (RRs) or odds ratios (ORs) or provided data for estimation. RRs (or ORs) with 95% confidence intervals were pooled using random‐effects models. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed with Cochran's Q statistic and I2 statistic. Twenty‐two observational studies involving 6 141 146 pregnant women (three prospective cohort studies, n = 1 116 799; 15 retrospective cohort studies, n = 5 022 513 and four case‐control studies, n = 1834) were included. The risk of preterm labor was significantly intensified with chronic HBV infection compared with uninfected women, with substantial heterogeneity. Chronic HBV infection was also significantly associated with a 16% increase in the risk of preterm birth, with substantial heterogeneity. The risk of preterm birth significantly increased by 21% in HBsAg+/HBeAg+ pregnant women compared with uninfected pregnant women. Chronic HBV infection intensifies the risk of preterm labor and birth in pregnant women, but this conclusion should be interpreted with caution given the possibility of residual confounding and be confirmed by well‐designed studies in the future.
Detection of Saffold viruses from children with acute respiratory infections in Yamagata, Japan, between 2008 and 2015
Authors: Itagaki Tsutomu , Aoki Yoko , Matoba Yohei , Tanaka Shizuka , Ikeda Tatsuya , Matsuzaki Yoko , Mizuta Katsumi
Published: August 2017

Although Saffold virus (SAFV) was reported as a novel human cardiovirus in 2007, no causative association between SAFV and clinical disease has been proven and the longitudinal epidemiology of SAFVs is not available. To establish the relationship between SAFVs and acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and to clarify the longitudinal epidemiology of SAFVs, 7258 nasopharyngeal specimens were collected from children with ARIs in Yamagata, Japan between 2008 and 2015. The specimens were inoculated on a microplate including six cell lines as part of routine surveillance, and molecular screening was performed for SAFVs using a reverse transcription (RT)‐PCR method. Throughout the study period, 95 (1.3%) SAFV genotype 2 (SAFV2), and 28 (0.4%) SAFV3 were detected, mainly between September and November. There were two outbreaks of SAFV2 in 2009 and 2013, and one outbreak of SAFV3 in 2012 and the positive rates during these outbreaks were 12.1% (53/439), 11% (35/319), and 4.4% (20/453), respectively. Sixty‐three SAFV2 and 28 SAFV3 strains were detected as a single virus from children with ARIs such as pharyngitis, herpangina, and tonsillitis. These results suggested that SAFV2 and SAFV3 are possible causative agents of ARIs among children and their infections occur mainly in the autumn season in Japan.
Investigation into diversity order at micro and/or macro level in gamma shadowed Nakagami‐m fading channels
Authors: Sekulović Nikola , Panajotović Aleksandra , Drača Dragan , Stefanović Mihajlo , Bandjur Miloš
Published: August 2017

Radio wave propagation through wireless channels is characterized by 4 main physical phenomena: reflection, diffraction, scattering, and absorption. Considerable efforts have been devoted to develop precise mathematical description of signal fluctuations which is very helpful in designing and evaluating the performance of wireless communication systems. A space diversity reception technique presents effective method for increasing channel capacity and upgrading transmission reliability at relatively low cost. In this paper, wireless communication system with maximal‐ratio combining (MRC) microdiversity and selection combining (SC) macrodiversity reception operating over correlated gamma shadowed Nakagami‐m fading channels is studied. Average bit error probability (ABEP), outage probability and average channel capacity, being significant and generally adopted performance measures, are employed to investigate how system performance is affected by the number of base stations and the number of antennas per base station.
Representation of mid‐latitude North American coastal storm activity by six global reanalyses
Authors: Pingree‐Shippee Katherine A. , Zwiers Francis W. , Atkinson David E.
Published: August 2017

Extratropical cyclones often produce extreme and hazardous weather conditions, such as high winds, heavy precipitation, blizzard conditions, and flooding, all of which have detrimental environmental/physical and socio‐economic impacts. Furthermore, storm interaction with the ocean produces additional hazards, with major local impacts, including inundation and coastal erosion. The North American west coast is influenced by the North Pacific storm track and by ‘atmospheric river’ events while the east coast is particularly influenced by winter storms that track along two favoured routes: the St. Lawrence Valley and the Eastern Seaboard. Reanalysis provides an invaluable tool for studying the characteristics of storm events that are identified as causing the most severe impacts. However, reanalysis products differ substantially in spatial resolution, model physics, assimilation approach, and the data that are assimilated. This study evaluates the representation of storm activity along the mid‐latitude North American coastlines by six global reanalyses: NCEP‐1, NCEP‐2, ERA‐Interim, Modern‐Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA), Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR), and Twentieth Century Reanalysis Version 2 (20CR). Storm activity representation is evaluated at annual and seasonal timescales (JFM, AMJ, JAS, OND, and ‘extended winter’ ONDFM) during the 1979–2010 time period through comparison with selected meteorological stations using single‐point surface pressure‐based proxies of extratropical storm activity. Stations are selected on the basis of record length, reporting frequency, coastal proximity, and relatively uniform spatial distribution. Comparisons are made using data extracted from the reanalysis grid box centre that is closest to each selected station. All reanalyses are found to successfully represent most aspects of mid‐latitude North American coastal strong storm activity, annually and seasonally, along both coasts. Nevertheless, ERA‐Interim, MERRA, and CFSR provide the better representations of mid‐latitude North American coastal strong storm activity, with ERA‐Interim performing best overall.
Impact of the boreal summer quasi‐biweekly oscillation on Eastern North Pacific tropical cyclone activity
Authors: Zhao Haikun , Raga Graciela B. , Klotzbach Philip J.
Published: August 2017

Several studies have focused on the impact of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO, with a period between 30 and 60 days) on boreal summer tropical cyclone (TC) activity over the Eastern North Pacific (ENP) basin. The quasi‐biweekly oscillation (QBWO), with a period of about 20 days, is another dominant mode of intra‐seasonal variability during the boreal summer over the ENP basin. There have been fewer studies focused on the influence of the QBWO on tropical cyclogenesis over the ENP basin. The exploratory analyses performed in this study suggest that the QBWO has a strong impact on boreal summer ENP TC activity, with enhanced TC activity during the convectively active phase.

The significant increase (decrease) of tropical cyclogenesis events during the convectively active (inactive) QBWO phase is found to be closely associated with the strengthening (weakening) of the low‐level cyclonic circulation and increasing (decreasing) mid‐level relative humidity (vertical wind shear) over the ENP. Mid‐level relative humidity and low‐level vorticity are found to be the two most important players in modulating TC genesis location and frequency, based upon the analyses of the anomalous genesis potential index pattern and its magnitude associated with the QBWO. Associated with changes in TC location and large‐scale steering flows, distinct difference in TC tracks during different QBWO phases can be readily found and thus cause substantial differences in basin‐wide TC intensity. This study enhances our understanding of the modulation of intra‐seasonal oscillations on boreal summer ENP TC activity and has the potential to aid in the sub‐seasonal prediction of ENP TC activity.
Relationship of cytokine levels and clinical effect on platelet‐rich plasma‐treated lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Lim Wonbong , Park Sang H. , Kim Bora , Kang Sin W. , Lee Jung W. , Moon Young L.
Published: August 2017

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is difficult to manage and can result in significant patient morbidity. Currently, the clinical use of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) for painful tendons has received attention, but its efficacy remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effects of PRP and its biological components. A total of 156 patients with LE were randomly divided into group 1, treated with a single injection of 2‐ml autologous PRP, and group 2, treated with a control received only physical therapy without injection. Both groups used a tennis elbow strap and performed stretching and strengthening exercises during 24 weeks’ follow‐up. Pain and functional improvements were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), Modified Mayo Clinic Performance Index for the elbow, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). White blood cell count, platelet count, and levels of platelet‐derived growth factor‐AB (PDGF‐AB), PDGF‐BB, transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β), vascular endothelial growth factor, epithelial growth factor, and interleukin‐1 β in PRP were measured and investigated for statistical correlation with the clinical score. At 24 weeks, all pain and functional variables, including VAS score, Mayo Clinic performance scores, and MRI grade, improved significantly in group 1 (p < 0.05). PDGF‐AB, PDGF‐BB, and TGF‐β levels were more significantly increased in PRP than in whole blood. TGF‐β level significantly correlated with Mayo Clinic performance score and MRI grade improvement. Thus, TGF‐β level in PRP is considered to play a pivotal role in tendon healing. These results may contribute to identifying the best protocol for PRP application in tendinopathies. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:913–920, 2018.
SERSanalysis of selectively captured exosomes using an integrin‐specific peptide ligand
Authors: Lee Changwon , Carney Randy , Lam Kit , Chan James W.
Published: August 2017

We demonstrate selective capturing of exosomes for surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) analysis using a thiolated peptide ligand that is bound to the surface of silver nanoparticles via thiol‐metallic bond formation. The ligand preferentially binds to α3ß1 integrin over‐expressed in exosomes secreted from SKOV‐3 cancer cells. Several Raman peaks at 894 cm−1, 1,080 cm−1, 1,252 cm−1, 1,340 cm−1, and 1,380 cm−1specific to SKOV‐3 exosomes are detected above the background signals generated from the nanoparticle and the ligand. In comparison, α3ß1 integrin negative exosomes secreted from Jurkat cells showed no detectable exosome specific SERS signal, confirming the high specificity of this ligand‐based SERS detection approach. This study shows the potential of developing a target‐specific SERS detection approach for characterizing exosomes from a heterogeneous mixture in body fluid for early‐stage disease diagnostics.
Determination of betaine, l‐carnitine, and choline in human urine using a self‐packed column and column‐switching ion chromatography with nonsuppressed conductivity detection
Authors: Wei Dan , Liu Junwei , Guo Ming , Zhu Yan
Published: August 2017

A simple method for the determination of betaine, l‐carnitine, and choline in human urine was developed based on column‐switching ion chromatography coupled with nonsuppressed conductivity detection by using a self‐packed column. A pretreatment column (50 mm × 4.6 mm, id) packed with poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐divinylbenzene) microspheres was used for the extraction and cleanup of analytes. Chromatographic separation was achieved within 10 min on a cationic exchange column (150 mm × 4.6 mm, id) using maleic anhydride modified poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐divinylbenzene) as the particles for packing. The detection was performed by ion chromatography with nonsuppressed conductivity detection. Parameters including column‐switching time, eluent type, flow rates of eluent, and interfering effects were optimized. Linearity (r2 ≥ 0.99) was obtained for the concentration range of 0.50–100, 0.75–100, and 0.25–100 μg/mL for betaine, l‐carnitine, and choline, respectively. Detection limits were 0.12, 0.20, and 0.05 μg/mL for betaine, l‐carnitine, and choline, respectively. The intra‐ and interday accuracy and precision for all quality controls were within ±10.11%. Satisfactory recovery was observed between 92.5 and 105.0%. The validated method was successfully applied for the determination of betaine, l‐carnitine, and choline in urine samples from healthy people.
Polypyrrole‐magnetite dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction combined with ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometry for the determination of rhodamine 6G and crystal violet in textile wastewater
Authors: Kamaruddin Amirah Farhan , Sanagi Mohd Marsin , Wan Ibrahim Wan Aini , Md. Shukri Dyia S. , Abdul Keyon Aemi S.
Published: August 2017

Polypyrrole‐magnetite dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction method combined with ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometry was developed for the determination of selected cationic dyes in textile wastewater. Polypyrrole‐magnetite was used as adsorbent due to its thermal stability, magnetic properties, and ability to adsorb Rhodamine 6G and crystal violet. Dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction parameters were optimized, including sample pH, adsorbent amount, extraction time, and desorption solvent. The optimum polypyrrole‐magnetite dispersive micro‐solid phase‐extraction conditions were sample pH 8, 60 mg polypyrrole‐magnetite adsorbent, 5 min of extraction time, and acetonitrile as the desorption solvent. Under the optimized conditions, the polypyrrole‐magnetite dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction with ultraviolet‐visible method showed good linearity in the range of 0.05–7 mg/L (R2 > 0.9980). The method also showed a good limit of detection for the dyes (0.05 mg/L) and good analyte recoveries (97.4–111.3%) with relative standard deviations < 10%. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of dyes in textile wastewater samples where the concentration found was 1.03 mg (RSD ±7.9%) and 1.13 mg/L (RSD ± 4.6%) for Rhodamine 6G and crystal violet, respectively. It can be concluded that this method can be adopted for the rapid extraction and determination of dyes at trace concentration levels.
Isolated Single Umbilical Artery and Fetal Echocardiography: A 25‐Year Experience at a Tertiary Care City Hospital
Authors: Gurram Padmalatha , Figueroa Reinaldo , Sipusic Elizabeth , Kuhnly Nicole , Clark Shealagh , Janicki Mary Beth
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To review our 25‐year experience with a single umbilical artery and fetal echocardiography to estimate the need for this test in cases of an isolated single umbilical artery.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of 436 patients with a diagnosis of a single umbilical artery at our institution between 1990 and 2015. Two hundred eighty‐eight women had both an anatomic survey and a fetal echocardiogram. Pregnancies with concurrent extracardiac anomalies or aneuploidy were excluded. The study population was divided into 3 groups based on cardiac views on the anatomic survey: normal, incomplete, and suspicious. Echocardiographic results were compared among the 3 groups. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of cardiac anomalies in the normal group at fetal echocardiography. The data were analyzed by the χ2 test or Fisher exact test.

Results

The mean maternal age ± SD of the group was 29.2 ± 6.2 years; 44.1% were primiparas. The mean gestational age at diagnosis was 22.6 ± 5.2 weeks, and the mean gestational age at fetal echocardiography was 25.1 ± 3.6 weeks. In the normal group, 99.1% (230 of 232) of women had a normal fetal echocardiogram; the 2 abnormal cases were ventricular septal defects. Normal echocardiograms were obtained in 81.8% (36 of 44) and 25.0% (3 of 12) of the “incomplete” and “suspicious” groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Fetuses with a single umbilical artery, in the absence of structural abnormalities, and with normal cardiac views at the time of the anatomic survey do not warrant an echocardiogram.
Perinatal Outcomes Associated With Isolated Velamentous Cord Insertion in Singleton and Twin Pregnancies
Authors: Sinkin Joshua A. , Craig Wendy Y. , Jones Michael , Pinette Michael G. , Wax Joseph R.
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To evaluate perinatal outcomes in singleton and twin pregnancies with pathologically confirmed velamentous cord insertion without vasa previa.

Methods

This retrospective case‐control study included all nonanomalous singleton and twin pregnancies with pathologically confirmed velamentous cord insertion delivered in a single institution between January 1, 2005, and July 1, 2015, and having an ultrasound examination by maternal‐fetal medicine. For each case, the next 2 consecutive deliveries matched for gestational age at delivery ± 1 week and, in twins, amnionicity and chorionicity served as controls. Primary outcomes included surgical delivery for a nonreassuring intrapartum fetal heart rate tracing, umbilical arterial cord pH of less than 7.2, 5‐minute Apgar score of less than 7, birth weight below the 10th percentile, neonatal intensive care unit admission, fetal or neonatal death, and cord avulsion necessitating manual placental extraction.

Results

Outcomes were available for 53 singletons with 103 matched controls and 33 twin pregnancies with 65 matched controls. In singletons, velamentous cord insertion was associated with cord pH of less than 7.2 (odds ratio [OR] 3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–11.2; P = .039), 5‐minute Apgar score of less than 7 (OR, 5.3; 95% CI, 0.99–28.1; P = .045), and cord avulsion requiring manual placental extraction (7.5% versus 0%; P = .012). Associations were suggested with increased surgical delivery for a nonreassuring intrapartum fetal heart rate tracing (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 0.9–6.9; P = .14), birth weight below the 10th percentile (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 0.8–5.9; P = .21), and fetal or neonatal death (3.8% versus 0%; P = .11). Velamentous cord insertions were also associated with placental abruption in singletons (7.5% versus 0%; P = .013). Among twins, velamentous cord insertion was associated with fetal or neonatal death (9.1% versus 0%; P = .036).

Conclusions

Isolated confirmed velamentous cord insertion is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes in singleton and twin gestations.
Utility and Safety of Repeated Ultrasound‐Guided Core Needle Biopsy of Focal Liver Masses
Authors: Kim Jin Sil , Won Hyung Jin , Lee So Jung , Kim So Yeon , Shin Yong Moon , Kim Pyo Nyun
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To evaluate the accuracy and safety of repeated ultrasound‐guided core needle biopsy (CNB) for hepatic focal lesions and to assess the predictive factors for success of repeated CNB.

Methods

For 5 years, 3085 CNBs were performed for focal hepatic lesions using an automated biopsy gun with an 18‐gauge needle. Seventy‐eight patients underwent repeated CNB because of pathologically inconclusive or unexpected results. Twelve patients were excluded because of unavailable additional tissue or follow‐up imaging by radiofrequency ablation (n = 5), repeated CNB greater than than 3 months after the first CNB (n = 5), and insufficient follow‐up time (n = 2). Sixty‐six patients were finally enrolled after the exclusion criteria were applied. We retrospectively evaluated tumor necrosis, tumor size, number of passes, lesion site, depth, tumor conspicuity, and complications. Continuous data and the total scores of the grading system were analyzed by the Student t test, and categorical data and each category were analyzed by the Fisher exact test.

Results

The repeated CNB rate was 2.5% (78 of 3085). The diagnostic accuracy of the repeated biopsies was 83.3% (55 of 66). Comparing the diagnostic group with the nondiagnostic group, no variable (ie, size, depth, necrosis, lesion site [segment], and number of passes) had a statistically significant difference. Tumor conspicuity was a significant factor for predicting successful repeated biopsy (P < .001). The cumulative complication rate was 10.6% (7 of 66), with only minor complications.

Conclusions

Repeated CNB is an accurate and safe procedure for obtaining a histologic diagnosis of hepatic focal lesions if the initial biopsy fails. High tumor conspicuity showed a significant correlation with successful repeated CNB.