bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proinflammatory role of blister fluid‐derived exosomes in bullous pemphigoid
Authors: Fang Hui , Shao Shuai , Jiang Man , Dang Erle , Shen Shengxian , Zhang Jieyu , Qiao Pei , Li Caixia , Wang Gang
Published: February 2018

Bullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against bullous pemphigoid autoantigens, leading to dermal–epidermal separation with consequent blister formation. However, whether and how the components of blister fluid exacerbate the progression of bullous pemphigoid is unclear. Exosomes are nanometre‐sized vesicles released from cells into the body fluid, where they can transmit signals throughout the body. In the present study, we isolated and characterized exosomes from blister fluids of patients with bullous pemphigoid, evaluated their proinflammatory role, and identified the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that exosomes isolated from blister fluids of patients with bullous pemphigoid showed the expected size and expressed the marker proteins CD63, CD81, and CD9. Additionally, blister fluid‐derived exosomes were internalized by human primary keratinocytes, inducing the production of critical inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Western blotting analysis showed robust and rapid activation of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signalling pathways in human primary keratinocytes after stimulation with blister fluid‐derived exosomes. We also found that blister fluid‐derived exosomes indirectly induced neutrophil trafficking by upregulating C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 8 in vitro. Furthermore, CD63 was localized mostly to keratinocytes and infiltrative granulocytes in skin lesions, suggesting that these cells were the possible sources of exosomes in blister fluid. Using mass spectrometry, we analysed the proteomes of blister fluid‐derived exosomes and identified a variety of proteins implicated in inflammatory and immune responses. Together, our findings provide strong evidence that blister fluid‐derived exosomes are involved in the local autoinflammatory responses of the skin associated with bullous pemphigoid. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mutiple DICER1‐related lesions associated with a germline deep intronic mutation
Authors: Verrier Florian , Dubois d'Enghien Catherine , Gauthier‐Villars Marion , Bonadona Valérie , Faure‐Conter Cécile , Dijoud Frédérique , Stoppa‐Lyonnet Dominique , Houdayer Claude , Golmard Lisa
Published: February 2018

Germline DICER1 pathogenic variants predispose to numerous benign and malignant tumors. In this report, we describe DICER1 gene analysis in an adolescent diagnosed with multinodular goiter, ovarian Sertoli–Leydig cell tumor, and lung cyst. DICER1 mutational screening at the DNA level failed to detect any pathogenic variant. Subsequent messenger RNA (mRNA) analysis revealed a 132 nucleotide intronic sequence exonization. This truncating event was caused by a deep intronic mutation generating a de novo acceptor splice site. This study demonstrates that some undetected DICER1 mutations should be investigated at the mRNA level.
Dose‐escalation is needed for gross disease in high‐risk neuroblastoma
Authors: Casey Dana L. , Kushner Brian H. , Cheung Nai‐Kong V. , Modak Shakeel , LaQuaglia Michael P. , Wolden Suzanne L.
Published: February 2018

Background

Locoregional failure is common after subtotal resection in high‐risk neuroblastoma. Although a dose of 21 Gy radiation therapy (RT) is standard for treatment of high‐risk neuroblastoma after gross total resection, the dose needed for local control of patients with gross residual disease at the time of RT is unknown. We sought to evaluate local control after 21–36 Gy RT in patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma undergoing subtotal resection.

Methods

All patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma who received RT to their primary site from 2000 to 2016 were reviewed. Of the 331 patients who received consolidative RT to their primary site, 19 (5.7%) underwent subtotal resection and were included in our analysis. Local failure (LF) was correlated with biologic prognostic factors and dose of RT.

Results

Median follow‐up among surviving patients was 6.0 years. Median RT dose was 25 Gy (range, 21 Gy–36 Gy). The 5‐year cumulative incidence of LF among all patients was 17.2%. LF at 5 years was 30% in those who received <30 Gy versus 0% in those who received 30–36 Gy (P = 0.12). There was a trend towards improved local control in patients with tumor size ≤10 cm at diagnosis (P = 0.12). The 5‐year event‐free and overall survival were 44.9% and 68.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

After subtotal resection, patients who received less than 30 Gy had poor local control. Doses of 30–36 Gy are likely needed for optimal control of gross residual disease at the time of consolidative RT in high‐risk neuroblastoma.
Successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for osteopetrosis using reduced intensity conditioning
Authors: Shadur Bella , Zaidman Irina , NaserEddin Adeeb , Lokshin Elana , Hussein Fatma , Oron Hodaya Cohen , Avni Batia , Grisariu Sigal , Stepensky Polina
Published: February 2018

Background

Infantile malignant osteopetrosis (IMO) is an autosomal recessive condition characterized by defective osteoclast activity, with hematopoietic bone marrow transplant being the only available cure. Over the past several years, new conditioning regimes and donor options have emerged, thus extending the possibility of cure to a greater number of patients and improving the outcomes of bone marrow transplant. Here we detail the outcomes of bone marrow transplant in a cohort of 31 patients treated with a combination of fludarabine, treosulphan, thiotepa, and antithymocyte globulin.

Procedures

Thirty‐one patients with IMO who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with fludarabine, treosulphan, thiotepa, and antithymocyte globulin at our center from 2012 to 2017 are retrospectively reviewed in this study. Twenty‐six patients were transplanted from 10/10 matched donors (13 from siblings, 11 from unrelated, and two from extended family donors), four from 9/10 matched unrelated donors, and one from a 9/10 matched family donor.

Results

Overall survival was 100% with a median follow‐up of 363 days (range 74–1891). There were 12 cases of acute graft versus host disease (GvHD) (38.7%), no cases of veno‐occlusive disease, and eight cases of hypercalcemia (25.8%). Almost 80% of patients suffered viral reactivations with two cases of Epstein–Barr‐virus‐driven post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disease. All cases of GvHD and viral reactivation were successfully treated.

Conclusions

We conclude that transplantation in children with IMO using fludarabine, treosulphan, thiotepa, and antithymocyte globulin is safe and effective and should be performed as early as possible following diagnosis, prior to the development of severe disease sequelae.
Molecular characterization and multidisciplinary management of Gerbich hemolytic disease of the newborn
Authors: Levitt Rebecca N. , Gourri Elise , Gassner Christoph , Banez‐Sese Grace , Salam Abdus , Denomme Gregory A. , Yang Elizabeth
Published: February 2018

Gerbich (Ge) antigens are high frequency red cell antigens expressed on glycophorin C (GYPC) and glycophorin D. Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) due to Gerbich antibody is rare and presents a clinical challenge, as Gerbich negative blood is scarce. We report a case of HDFN due to maternal Ge3 negative phenotype and anti‐Ge3 alloimmunization, successfully managed by transfusion of maternal blood. Molecular testing revealed that the mother has homozygous deletion of exon 3 of GYPC, the father is homozygous wildtype for GYPC, and the infant is obligate heterozygote expressing Ge3.
The effect of the structure of the anion of an ionic liquid on the rate of reaction at a phosphorus centre
Authors: Butler Bradley J. , Harper Jason B.
Published: February 2018

The effects of a series of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium based ionic liquids containing different anions on the reaction of ethanol‐d6 with diethyl chlorophosphate were investigated. Addition of each of the salts considered resulted in an increase in the rate constant; the extent of this increase was dependent on the proportion of the ionic liquid in the reaction mixture. In contrast to previous studies, the ionic liquid effects continued to change at high proportions of these salts in the reaction mixture. Temperature‐dependent kinetic analyses were used to determine the microscopic origins of the rate constant enhancement. Correlations between the activation parameters and the coordinating ability of the anion of the ionic liquid (as measured using the Kamlet‐Taft βN parameter) suggest an additional interaction to those discussed previously. Importantly, these correlations suggest the opportunity for quantification of potential ionic liquid solvent effects in these systems.
Triple redox/temperature responsive diselenide‐containing homopolypeptide micelles and supramolecular hydrogels thereof
Authors: Gao Yuanfeng , Dong Chang‐Ming
Published: February 2018

Stimuli‐responsive polypeptides are receiving much attention for drug delivery systems and tissue engineering scaffolds; however, it is challenging to construct multiple‐responsive polypeptides and one‐component polymeric hydrogels. Herein, a novel type of triple redox/temperature‐responsive diselenide‐containing poly(methoxydiethylene glycol‐l‐glutamate) homopolypeptide was facilely synthesized by selenocystamine‐initiated ring‐opening polymerization in DMF at 30 °C, and their chemical structures and physical properties were fully characterized by means of 1H NMR, GPC, FT‐IR, WAXD, and CD. They self‐assembled into spherical micelles in aqueous solution, which possess a lower critical solution temperature, redox‐responsiveness inherited from diselenide bond, and the triple stimuli‐sensitive self‐assembly behaviors, as characterized by means of turbidity, DLS, TEM, and zeta potential measurements. The diselenide‐containing homopolypeptides formed supramolecular hydrogels at room temperature, exhibiting a thermal gel–sol transition. The rheological tests evidence that the mechanical modulus of the hydrogel is independent of angular frequency within 100 rad/s and at 25 °C, in which the storage modulus of G′ is order of magnitude greater than the loss modulus of G″, displaying a solid‐like elastic behavior. Moreover, the mechanical modulus of the hydrogel can be tuned by changing the chain length of the homopolypeptide, the 10‐mM 1,4‐dithiothreitol (DTT) reduction, and 1 mM H2O2 oxidation, respectively. Consequently, this work provides a simple strategy to fabricate triple‐stimuli responsive polypeptide micelles and one‐component hydrogels. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 1067–1077
A phytomodulatory hydrogel with enhanced healing effects
Authors: Vasconcelos Mirele S. , Souza Tamiris F.G. , Figueiredo Ingrid S. , Sousa Emília T. , Sousa Felipe D. , Moreira Renato A. , Alencar Nylane M.N. , Lima‐Filho José V. , Ramos Márcio V.
Published: February 2018

The healing performance of a hydrogel composed of hemicelluloses extracted from seeds of Caesalpinia pulcherrima (Fabaceae) and mixed with phytomodulatory proteins obtained from the latex of Calotropis procera was characterized on excisional wounds. The hydrogel did not induce dermal irritability. When topically used on excisional wounds, the hydrogel enhanced healing by wound contraction. Histology and the measurement of inflammatory mediators (myeloperoxidase, interleukin‐1β, and interleukin‐6) suggested that the inflammatory phase of the healing process was intensified, stimulating fibroplasia and neovascularization (proliferative phase) and tissue remodeling by increasing new collagen fiber deposition. In addition, reduction on levels of malondialdehyde in the groups that the hydrogel was applied suggested that the oxidative stress was reduced. The hydrogel performed better than the reference drug used, as revealed by the extended thickness of the remodeled epithelium.
Robotic rectal surgery in Korea: Analysis of a nationwide registry
Authors: Baek Se‐Jin , Kwak Jung‐Myun , Kim Jin , Kim Seon‐Hahn , Park Sungsoo ,   for the Korean Association of Robotic Surgeons (KAROS) Study Group
Published: February 2018

Background

The aim of this study is to analyze the progress and the present state of application of robotic rectal surgery in Korea.

Methods

We used data from patients who underwent robotic, laparoscopic or open approaches for four types of operative procedures between 2006 and 2014: (1) anterior resection (AR), (2) low anterior resection (LAR), (3) intersphincteric resection (ISR) and (4) abdominoperineal resection (APR).

Results

The number of hospitals performing robotic rectal surgery has increased. Low anterior resection accounts for the largest percentage of robotic surgeries (mean 67.2%), and the number and proportion of ISRs performed robotically have increased rapidly (mean 22.6%). In addition, the dependence on robotic methods for ISR and APR increased rapidly over the study period.

Conclusion

The use of robotic rectal surgery has widened over the last decade in Korea, and it has been convergent with surgeries for rectal lesions located near the anal verge.
Novel sliding mode control for multi‐input–multi‐output discrete‐time system with disturbance
Authors: Hou Huazhou , Zhang Qingling
Published: February 2018

This paper investigates sliding mode control for multi‐input–multi‐output discrete‐time system with disturbances. First of all, a novel nonlinear sliding surface, named as hyperbolic hybrid switching sliding surface, is proposed. Two different types of hyperbolic functions are introduced into the proposed sliding surface. Due to the changing of values of the hyperbolic functions, sliding surface switching occurs during the control process, which ensures that both settling time and overshoot can be decreased. The sliding mode controller is obtained based on a novel nonlinear reaching law. The nonlinear reaching law contains several parameters, and by properly designing these parameters, we can decrease the bounds of the sliding variables to small values. The stability analysis of the sliding motion is carried out from singular system viewpoint. Finally, simulation examples and comparison examples are presented to illustrate that the system performance is improved obviously by proposed novel sliding mode control, and the system is robust to the disturbances.
Adaptive tracking control for a class of random pure‐feedback nonlinear systems with Markovian switching
Authors: Yao Liqiang , Zhang Weihai
Published: February 2018

This note studies the tracking control problem for a class of random pure‐feedback nonlinear systems with Markovian switching and unknown parameters. An adaptive tracking controller is constructed by introducing an auxiliary integrator subsystem and using the improved backstepping method such that the closed‐loop system has a unique solution that is globally bounded in probability. Meanwhile, the tracking error can converge to an arbitrarily small neighborhood of zero via the parameter regulation technique. The efficiency of the tracking controller designed in this paper is demonstrated by simulation examples.
Spatiotemporal incidence rate data analysis by nonparametric regression
Authors: Yang Kai , Qiu Peihua
Published: February 2018

To monitor the incidence rates of cancers, AIDS, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic or infectious diseases, some global, national, and regional reporting systems have been built to collect/provide population‐based data about the disease incidence. Such databases usually report daily, monthly, or yearly disease incidence numbers at the city, county, state, or country level, and the disease incidence numbers collected at different places and different times are often correlated, with the ones closer in place or time being more correlated. The correlation reflects the impact of various confounding risk factors, such as weather, demographic factors, lifestyles, and other cultural and environmental factors. Because such impact is complicated and challenging to describe, the spatiotemporal (ST) correlation in the observed disease incidence data has complicated ST structure as well. Furthermore, the ST correlation is hidden in the observed data and cannot be observed directly. In the literature, there has been some discussion about ST data modeling. But, the existing methods either impose various restrictive assumptions on the ST correlation that are hard to justify, or ignore partially or entirely the ST correlation. This paper aims to develop a flexible and effective method for ST disease incidence data modeling, using nonparametric local smoothing methods. This method can properly accommodate the ST data correlation. Theoretical justifications and numerical studies show that it works well in practice.
Estimating recurrence and incidence of preterm birth subject to measurement error in gestational age: A hidden Markov modeling approach
Authors: Albert Paul S.
Published: February 2018

Prediction of preterm birth as well as characterizing the etiological factors affecting both the recurrence and incidence of preterm birth (defined as gestational age at birth ≤ 37 wk) are important problems in obstetrics. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) consecutive pregnancy study recently examined this question by collecting data on a cohort of women with at least 2 pregnancies over a fixed time interval. Unfortunately, measurement error due to the dating of conception may induce sizable error in computing gestational age at birth. This article proposes a flexible approach that accounts for measurement error in gestational age when making inference. The proposed approach is a hidden Markov model that accounts for measurement error in gestational age by exploiting the relationship between gestational age at birth and birth weight. We initially model the measurement error as being normally distributed, followed by a mixture of normals that has been proposed on the basis of biological considerations. We examine the asymptotic bias of the proposed approach when measurement error is ignored and also compare the efficiency of this approach to a simpler hidden Markov model formulation where only gestational age and not birth weight is incorporated. The proposed model is compared with alternative models for estimating important covariate effects on the risk of subsequent preterm birth using a unique set of data from the NICHD consecutive pregnancy study.
Design, Docking, and Synthesis of Quinoline‐2H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3(4H)‐ones as Potent Anticancer and Antitubercular Agents
Authors: Somagond Shilpa M. , Kamble Ravindra R. , Kattimani Pramod P. , Shaikh Saba Kauser J. , Dixit Sheshagiri R. , Joshi Shrinivas D. , Devarajegowda Hirihalli C.
Published: February 2018

A new series quinoline‐2H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3(4H)‐ones 7 g‐n and 11 g‐n were designed and synthesized. Docking studies of title compounds with DNA (PDB: 1AU5) and with long‐chain enoyl‐acyl carrier protein reductase (InhA) enzyme (PDB ID: 4TZK) as anticancer and antitubercular targets showed good insights on the possible interactions. Further, the compounds were tested for in vitro anticancer activity against HeLa human cervix tumor cell line and also in vitro antitubercular activity against M. tuberculosis H37Rv [MTB] (ATCC‐27294). Some of the compounds exhibited promising activities in both the protocols. Hence, these compounds may be considered as pharmacological lead molecules of interest.
A Facile, Convenient and Catalyst‐Free One‐Pot Route to Fluorescent Pyrrolo[3, 4‐c]pyridines via Multicomponent Strategy in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Maity Pampa , Chaudhuri Tandrima , Mukhopadhyay Chhanda
Published: February 2018

A unique, convenient and efficient multicomponent one‐pot synthetic approach to access a wide variety of pyrrolo[3, 4‐c] pyridines has been developed. This is the first report of the direct synthesis of pyrrolo[3, 4‐c]pyridine amido‐triones from primary amines, malononitrile and dialkylacetylenedicarboxylate in an aqueous medium without using any catalyst. The newly synthesized compounds are fluorescent in nature and photophysical properties of some selective compounds have been carried out. In addition, a comparative photophysical study of some selective fluorophores was also performed in a wide variety of solvents.
High‐Performance Flexible Supercapacitors Based on Ionogel Electrolyte with an Enhanced Ionic Conductivity
Authors: Kim Donggun , Kannan Padmanathan Karthick , Chung Chan‐Hwa
Published: February 2018

As an electrolyte, ionic liquids (ILs) have unique properties, including a wide potential window, high thermal stability, and safety. In particular, the wide potential window of ILs enables energy storage devices to possess a high energy density. In this work, ionogels were synthesized using 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMIMBF4) and poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate)‐co‐poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate) copolymer (PHEMA‐co‐PEGDMA). The prepared ionogels were characterized and investigated for application as an electrolyte in all‐solid‐state supercapacitors. The ionogel electrolytes offer free‐standing films without any supporting substrate. An increment of the ionic conductivity was observed when the ionogel was prepared with a filler‐added copolymer network. The all‐solid‐state supercapacitors fabricated with these ionogels exhibited excellent performance under various bending conditions. Moreover, the specific capacitance retention was about 91% after 3,500 cycles, which demonstrates long‐term stability.
Solvent‐Free Synthesis of 1D Cancrinite Zeolite for Unexpectedly Improved Gasoline Selectivity
Authors: Cheng Shilin , Zhang Guihua , Javed Mudassar , Gao Weizhe , Mazonde Brighton , Zhang Yu , Lu Chengxue , Yang Ruiqin , Xing Chuang
Published: February 2018

Zeolites as a kind of representative solid acid material, owning unique microporous channels, could be proposed as reasonable candidate muti‐funcational catalysts on oriented synthesis of target products from syngas. This paper represents a novel way for the synthesis of cancrinite zeolite (CAN‐topology) using a solvent‐free strategy. Thus prepared CAN zeolite loaded Co‐based catalyst exhibited a remarkable catalytic performance for direct gasoline synthesis from syngas, producing unexpected gasoline selectivity with 78.3%. The amazing result was attributed to CAN zeolite with a straight channel (12MR, 1‐dimension), leading that Fischer‐Tropsch primary products could continuously and quickly diffuse in its channels. Moreover, a lack of shape selective behavior and weak acidity on CAN zeolite exhibited low isoparaffin selectivity. The Na+ content in CAN zeolite was also an important factor for tuning the product distribution. As expected, the green and facile solvent‐free approach for constructed CAN zeolite will play a vital application in selective conversion of syngas in the future.
Synthesis and DNA‐Binding Studies of A New Cyclic Dimeric Symmetrical Pseudo‐Turn Mimetic
Authors: Banerji Biswadip , Chatterjee Satadru , Killi Sunil Kumar , Srinivas D. , Prodhan Chandraday , Katarkar Atul , Chaudhuri Keya
Published: February 2018

A new dimeric cyclic 24 member symmetrical turn analogue was synthesized efficiently by an intramolecular Heck reaction. This facile reaction has produced selectively a single dimeric product having two sets of intramolecular hydrogen bonds (IHB) at the two ends of it. Different experimental studies have unambiguously proved the presence of a pseudo‐turn like structure. Furthermore, it was shown that this molecule binds to the minor groove of DNA just like a known minor groove binder, DAPI (4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole).
Efficacious and Selective Oxidation of Atrazine with Hydrogen Peroxide Catalyzed by Magnetite Nanoparticles: Influence of Reaction Media
Authors: Kumari Pratibha , Kumar Sanjay , Gupta Shilpi , Mishra Avinash , Kumar Arun
Published: February 2018

An efficient catalytic system has been developed for the oxidation of atrazine with hydrogen peroxide catalyzed by magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles in organic solvents as well as in ionic liquids to yield N‐dealkylated products selectively. The superior oxidation efficacy and regioselectivity was observed in neutral and non‐coordinating ionic liquid [bmim][PF6].
ZnO Nanopillar Coated Surfaces with Substrate‐Dependent Superbactericidal Property
Authors: Yi Guangshun , Yuan Yuan , Li Xiukai , Zhang Yugen
Published: February 2018

ZnO nanopillars coated on various surfaces are able to kill adhered bacteria and fungi due to their physical structure through a rupturing mechanism. Remarkably, zinc foil and galvanized steel surfaces with ZnO nanopillar coatings demonstrate an excellent remote bacteria‐killing property. Their bacterial killing efficacy is several orders higher than ZnO nanopillars coated on other surfaces as well as ZnO nanoparticles themselves. Mechanistic study shows that the nanostructure surface kills adhered microbial cells by rupturing the cell wall, while superoxide (•O2−) released from the ZnO coating with electrons donated from zinc via the Zn/ZnO interface rather than photoirritation is responsible for the superior remote killing. The results of this study represent a novel mechanism of surface disinfection and its application in water disinfection is also demonstrated.
Nanomaterial Preparation by Extrusion through Nanoporous Membranes
Authors: Guo Peng , Huang Jing , Zhao Yaping , Martin Charles R. , Zare Richard N. , Moses Marsha A.
Published: February 2018

Template synthesis represents an important class of nanofabrication methods. Herein, recent advances in nanomaterial preparation by extrusion through nanoporous membranes that preserve the template membrane without sacrificing it, which is termed as “non‐sacrificing template synthesis,” are reviewed. First, the types of nanoporous membranes used in nanoporous membrane extrusion applications are introduced. Next, four common nanoporous membrane extrusion strategies: vesicle extrusion, membrane emulsification, precipitation extrusion, and biological membrane extrusion, are examined. These methods have been utilized to prepare a wide range of nanomaterials, including liposomes, emulsions, nanoparticles, nanofibers, and nanotubes. The principle and historical context of each specific technology are discussed, presenting prominent examples and evaluating their positive and negative features. Finally, the current challenges and future opportunities of nanoporous membrane extrusion methods are discussed.
Exploration of Antigen Induced CaCO3 Nanoparticles for Therapeutic Vaccine
Authors: Wang Shuang , Ni Dezhi , Yue Hua , Luo Nana , Xi Xiaobo , Wang Yugang , Shi Min , Wei Wei , Ma Guanghui
Published: February 2018

Therapeutic vaccines possess particular advantages and show promising potential to combat burdening diseases, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, hepatitis, and even cancers. An efficient therapeutic vaccine would strengthen the immune system and eventually eliminate target cells through cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Unfortunately, insufficient efficacy in triggering such an adaptive immune response is a problem that remains unsolved. To achieve efficient cellular immunity, antigen‐presenting cells must capture and further cross‐present disease‐associated antigens to CD8 T cells via major histocompatibility complex I molecules. Here, a biomimetic strategy is developed to fabricate hierarchical ovalbumin@CaCO3 nanoparticles (OVA@NP, ≈500 nm) under the templating effect of antigen OVA. Taking advantage of the unique physicochemical properties of crystalline vaterite, cluster structure, and high loading, OVA@NP can efficiently ferry cargo antigen to dendritic cells and blast lysosomes for antigen escape to the cytoplasm. In addition, the first evidence that the physical stress from generated CO2 induces autophagy through the LC3/Beclin 1 pathways is presented. These outcomes cooperatively promote antigen cross‐presentation, elicit CD8 T cell proliferation, ignite a potent and specific CTL response, and finally achieve prominent tumor therapy effects.
Influence of Wheat Starch on the Structural Changes and Size Distribution of Gluten Induced by Adding Wheat Bran Dietary Fiber
Authors: Han Wen , Ma Sen , Li Li , Zheng Xueling , Wang Xiaoxi
Published: February 2018

This study investigates the particle size distribution and structural changes in the gluten system with and without starch induced by adding wheat bran dietary fiber (WBDF). The results show that adding WBDF tends to disturb the particle size distribution of gluten considerably and causes changes in the hydrophobic group microenvironment. The presence of starch can reduce the destructive effects of gluten by forming a more open but solid gluten matrix, which led to larger‐sized particles. Moreover, the gluten‐starch system exhibited a significantly higher surface hydrophobicity value of 3694.4 but a lower fluorescence intensity possibly due to the quenching effect. Both systems had similar zeta potentials ranging from 17.4 to 18.4 mV, suggesting little impact of WBDF and starch on gluten electrostatic interactions. There results indicate that the changes in the gluten protein are determined not only by the amount of WBDF but also by the cooperation of starch.
Characterization of Sea Lamprey Stream Entry Using Dual‐Frequency Identification Sonar
Authors: McCann Erin L. , Johnson Nicholas S. , Hrodey Peter J. , Pangle Kevin L.
Published: February 2018

Effective methods to control invasive Sea Lampreys Petromyzon marinus in the Laurentian Great Lakes often rely on knowledge of the timing of the Sea Lamprey spawning migration, which has previously been characterized using data gathered from traps. Most assessment traps are located many kilometers upstream from the river mouth, so less is known about when Sea Lampreys enter spawning streams and which environmental cues trigger their transition from lakes to rivers. To decide how to develop barriers and traps that target Sea Lampreys when they enter a stream, the stream entry of Sea Lampreys into a Lake Huron tributary during 2 years was assessed using dual‐frequency identification sonar (DIDSON). Sea Lampreys entered the stream in low densities when temperatures first reached 4°C, which was up to 6 weeks and a mean of 4 weeks earlier than when they were first captured in traps located upstream. The probability of stream entry was significantly affected by stream temperature and discharge, and stream entry timing peaked when stream temperatures rose to 12°C and discharge was high. Examination of the entry at a finer temporal resolution (i.e., minutes) indicated that Sea Lampreys did not exhibit social behavior (e.g., shoaling) during stream entry. Our findings indicate that Sea Lampreys may be vulnerable to alternative trap types near river mouths and hydraulic challenges associated with traditional traps. Also, seasonal migration barriers near stream mouths may need to be installed soon after ice‐out to effectively block the entire adult Sea Lamprey cohort from upstream spawning habitat.
Pessary for prevention of preterm birth in twin pregnancy with short cervix: 3‐year follow‐up study
Authors: van ‘t Hooft J. , van der Lee J. H. , Opmeer B. C. , van Wassenaer‐Leemhuis A. G. , van Baar A. L. , Bekedam D. J. , Steenis L. J. P. , Liem S. , Schuit E. , Cuijpers C. , Bleeker E. , Vinke M. E. , Simons N. , de Graaf I. M. , Mol B. W. J. , van de Beek C.
Published: February 2018

Objective

A recent randomized clinical trial (ProTWIN) showed that a cervical pessary prevented preterm birth and improved neonatal outcome in women with multiple pregnancy and cervical length (CL) < 38 mm. In this follow‐up study, the long‐term developmental outcome of these children was evaluated at 3 years' corrected age.

Methods

This was a follow‐up study of ProTWIN, a multicenter trial conducted between 2009 and 2012 in which asymptomatic women with a multiple pregnancy were randomized to placement of a cervical pessary or no intervention. Current follow‐up and analysis were limited to mothers with a mid‐trimester CL < 38 mm (78 women (157 children) in the pessary group and 55 women (111 children) in the control group). At 3 years of corrected age, surviving children were invited for a Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development‐third edition (Bayley‐III) assessment. Death after randomization or neurodevelopmental disability (Bayley‐III score of ≤ 85, 1 SD below mean) rates were compared between the pessary and control groups, according to the intention‐to‐treat principle and using multiple imputation for missing data. Mean Bayley‐III scores in surviving children were also assessed. A linear mixed‐effects model was used to adjust for correlation between children of one mother.

Results

From the time of entry in the ProTWIN trial until follow‐up at 3 years of age, a total of 27 children had died (six (5%) in the pessary vs 21 (26%) in the control group; odds ratio (OR), 0.13; 95% CI, 0.04–0.48). Bayley‐III outcomes were collected for 173/241 (72%) surviving children (114 (75%) in the pessary vs 59 (66%) in the control group). The cumulative incidence of death or survival with a neurodevelopmental disability was 12 (10%) in the pessary vs 23 (29%) in the control group (OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.09–0.73). No statistical or clinically relevant differences were found with respect to cognitive, language and motor development among surviving children between the groups. Comparable results were found after multiple imputation.

Conclusion

In women with twin pregnancy and a CL < 38 mm, the use of a cervical pessary strongly improved survival of the children without affecting neurodevelopment at 3 years' corrected age. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Impacts of Global Warming on Energy Use for Heating and Cooling with Full Rebound Effects in Switzerland
Authors: Gonseth Camille , Thalmann Philippe , Vielle Marc
Published: February 2018

This paper analyzes the impacts of the modified needs for space heating and cooling due to global warming on the quantities of energy used for space conditioning and overall. It thereby estimates direct and total rebound effects, the latter including changes in consumption and production triggered by changes in energy needs for space conditioning by households, services and industry. A computable general equilibrium model is used to simulate a range of climate and impacts scenarios for Switzerland over the period 2010–2060. We find significant welfare gains from reduced heating needs, exceeding largely the costs of the additional electricity needed for cooling. We also find large rebound effects. For instance, while the climate scenario A1b would allow households to reduce their consumption of fossil energy for room heating by 15.9 %, actual reductions are only 10.4%, which implies a direct rebound effect of 35 %. Economy wide, fossil energy consumption could decrease by 4.3% but does so only by 2.7%, which represents a total rebound effect of 37%.
Halo Formation During Solidification of Refractory Metal Aluminide Ternary Systems
Authors: D’Souza N. , Feitosa L. M. , West G. D. , Dong H. B.
Published: February 2018

The evolution of eutectic morphologies following primary solidification has been studied in the refractory metal aluminide (Ta-Al-Fe, Nb-Al-Co, and Nb-Al-Fe) ternary systems. The undercooling accompanying solid growth, as related to the extended solute solubility in the primary and secondary phases can be used to account for the evolution of phase morphologies during ternary eutectic solidification. For small undercooling, the conditions of interfacial equilibrium remain valid, while in the case of significant undercooling when nucleation constraints occur, there is a departure from equilibrium leading to unexpected phases. In Ta-Al-Fe, an extended solubility of Fe in σ was observed, which was consistent with the formation of a halo of μ phase on primary σ. In Nb-Al-Co, a halo of C14 is formed on primary CoAl, but very limited vice versa. However, in the absence of a solidus projection it was not possible to definitively determine the extended solute solubility in the primary phase. In Nb-Al-Fe when nucleation constraints arise, the inability to initiate coupled growth of NbAl3 + C14 leads to the occurrence of a two-phase halo of C14 + Nb2Al, indicating a large undercooling and departure from equilibrium.
Pregnancy-associated spontaneous coronary artery dissection (PASCAD): An etiology for chest pain in the young peripartum patient
Authors: Lee Richard , Carr David
Published: February 2018

Cardiac emergencies in pregnancy and the postpartum period are rare but often life-threatening. An emergency physician’s differential diagnosis for chest pain in the peripartum patient often includes serious etiologies such as pulmonary embolism or myocardial infarction (MI). A lesser-known but important consideration on the differential for MI is that of a spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD). SCAD is defined as an intramural hematoma within the coronary artery that compresses the true lumen. Expansion by increased pressures may lead to subsequent myocardial ischemia and infarction. This condition is the most common cause of pregnancy-associated MI and is reported as the cause of MI in 24% to 35% of all women younger than 50 years. This condition is predominately seen in young healthy females with no traditional risk factors for coronary artery or cardiac disease, and typically in the postpartum period. SCAD in the peripartum period is defined as pregnancy-associated spontaneous coronary artery dissection (PASCAD). Abnormal ECG changes, elevated troponins, and regional wall motional abnormalities on echocardiography are all diagnostic findings of SCAD, which can be ultimately confirmed with coronary angiography. Failure to immediately address this condition can lead to acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, and death. Thrombolytic treatment may be harmful and is not recommended, and percutaneous coronary intervention can result in the iatrogenic propagation of further coronary dissection. As a result, the management for suspected SCAD involves emphasis on urgent transfer and urgent coronary artery angiography to determine appropriate treatment modalities.
Aroma profile of a traditionally fermented butter (smen)
Authors: Iradukunda Clarisse , Aida Wan Moustapha Wan , Ouafi Ahmed Tadlaoui , Barkouch Yassir , Boussaid Abdellatif
Published: February 2018

The spontaneous fermentation of butter produces a highly fragrant product called smen. The short chain fatty acids (C4 to C10) have been traditionally considered the main aromas of this product but our work on the volatile fraction characterisation using SPME GC/MS showed that other products may also be important. Indeed, 183 different volatile compounds were detected belonging mainly to carboxylic acids, esters, ketones, nitrogen compounds and terpenes. However, only 19 compounds were common to more than 50% of the samples. These include short chain fatty acids (C4 to C10), their esters and short chain methylketones (C5 to C11). Despite their high levels in all samples, the amounts of C4 to C10 free fatty acids could not explain the differences in preparation and consumer appreciation of the samples. In contrast, the levels and nature of some methylketones and esters, particularly butanoic and hexanoic ethyl esters and 2-pentanone, seem to better reflect the effects of salt, thyme, acidity and consumer preferences.
Investigation on the effectiveness of mid-infrared spectroscopy to predict detailed mineral composition of bulk milk
Authors: Malacarne Massimo , Visentin Giulio , Summer Andrea , Cassandro Martino , Penasa Mauro , Bolzoni Giuseppe , Zanardi Giorgio , De Marchi Massimo
Published: February 2018

This Research Communication investigated the potential of mid-infrared spectroscopy to predict detailed mineral composition of bovine milk. A total of 153 bulk milk samples were analysed for contents of Ca, Cl, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Na, P and Zn. Also, soluble and colloidal fractions of Ca, Mg and P were quantified. For each milk sample the mid-infrared spectrum was captured and stored. Prediction models were developed using partial least squares regression and the accuracy of prediction was evaluated using both cross- and external validation. The proportion of variance explained by the prediction models in cross-validation ranged from 34% (Na) to 77% (total P), and it ranged from 13% (soluble Mg) to 54% (Cl−) in external validation. The ratio of the standard deviation of each trait to the standard error of prediction in external validation, which is an indicator of the practical utility of the prediction model, was low and never greater than 2. Results from the current study supported the limited usefulness of mid-infrared spectroscopy to predict minerals present in low concentration in bulk milk. For major mineral components, results from the present research did not match previous findings demonstrating the need for further studies using larger reference datasets.
Separation of bovine κ-casein glycomacropeptide from sweet whey protein products with undetectable level of phenylalanine by protein precipitation followed by anion exchange chromatography
Authors: Nakano Takuo , Ozimek Lech , Betti Mirko
Published: February 2018

Bovine κ-casein glycomacropeptide (GMP) found in sweet whey is a 64 amino acid residue glycopeptide, which does not contain phenylalanine or other aromatic amino acids. There is, however, little information available concerning isolation of phenylalanine free GMP from sweet whey. In the study reported in this Research Communication, GMP was purified from three samples of sweet whey protein products (SWPP) by a procedure involving: (1) precipitation of protein by heat treatment; (2) precipitation of protein by pH shift to 4·6; and (3) diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-Sephacel anion exchange chromatography of soluble portion of each sample obtained after removal of protein precipitates. The total protein precipitated with both heat treatment and pH shift accounted for average 61% of dry weight of SWPP. The GMP fraction obtained by DEAE-Sephacel chromatography accounted for average 7·5% of dry weight of SWPP. Amino acid analysis showed that there was no detectable level of phenylalanine in GMP fractions from all samples examined. The present method may help develop large scale methods of production of GMP.
Characterisation ofStaphylococcus aureusstrains isolated from mastitis bovine milk in Argentina
Authors: Srednik Mariela E , Usongo Valentine , Lépine Sarah , Janvier Xavier , Archambault Marie , Gentilini Elida R
Published: February 2018

The study reported in this Research Communication was conducted to characteriseStaphylococcus aureusisolates recovered from mastitic bovine milk from dairy herds in Argentina. A total of 829 mastitic milk samples, both clinical and subclinical, were collected from 21 farms by veterinarians and submitted to the laboratory for testing from which 229S. aureusisolates were recovered, an isolation rate of 28·1%. These isolates were tested for susceptibility to the antibiotics penicillin, erythromycin and clindamycin. Of the 229 isolates, 53 (23·1%) were resistant to penicillin, 31 (13·5%) to erythromycin and 28 (12·2%) to clindamycin. All isolates were negative for themecA,mecC andpvlgenes by PCR. Southernblot hybridisation revealed that theermC gene was located on plasmid bands. Eighty isolates were randomly selected from the 229 for further characterisation. Restriction analysis of chromosomal DNA with Cf9I followed by PFGE of the 80 isolates revealed 23 distinct pulsotypes at 80% similarity. Seven major types (A, B, N, P, S, T, U and V) accounted for 68·7% of these isolates and 12 pulsotypes (A, B, F, G, J, K, M, N, P, S, T and U) occurred on more than one farm indicating genetic diversity within the farms. MLST of a representative isolate from dominant types identified the STs 97 705, 746, 2102 and 2187 with ST97 being the most predominant. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that 53·7% of the 80 randomly selected isolates were resistant to at least one of the three antibiotics tested. To our knowledge, this study represents the first large scale molecular studies onS. aureusisolates from dairy farms in Argentina.
Changes of macrominerals and calcitropic hormones in serum of periparturient dairy cows subject to subclinical hypocalcaemia
Authors: Cai Chuanjiang , Kong Yezi , Wu Dianjun , Wang Jianguo
Published: February 2018

The aims of the study reported in the Research Communication were to evaluate changes of macrominerals and major calcitropic hormone concentrations in 51 healthy dairy cows over the peripartum period, and to compare those cows with 51 cows subject to subclinical hypocalcaemia (SCH) on calving day. The results showed that serum calcium (Ca) and potassium (K) concentrations were lowest in the healthy periparturient dairy cows at parturition, while sodium (Na) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations were highest. Serum magnesium (Mg), chloride (Cl) and phosphorus (P) concentrations were highest 1 wk prepartum, however, the concentration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] was highest 1 wk postpartum. The dairy cows with subclinical hypocalcaemia (SCH) had significantly lower serum levels of Ca, K, Na, Mg, Cl, 1,25(OH)2D3 and glucose and had significantly higher levels of serum P, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) than their healthy counterparts on calving day. However, the serum calcitonin and PTH concentrations were not significantly different between the two groups. These data demonstrated that the concentrations of macrominerals and major calcium regulating hormones of cows change dramatically over the peripartum period. Furthermore, SCH was associated with a risk of the development of ketosis and fatty liver.
Gyrokinetic stability of electron–positron–ion plasmas
Authors: Mishchenko A. , Zocco A. , Helander P. , Könies A.
Published: February 2018

The gyrokinetic stability of electron–positron plasmas contaminated by an ion (proton) admixture is studied in a slab geometry. The appropriate dispersion relation is derived and solved. Stable K-modes, the universal instability, the ion-temperature-gradient-driven instability, the electron-temperature-gradient-driven instability and the shear Alfvén wave are considered. It is found that the contaminated plasma remains stable if the contamination degree is below some threshold and that the shear Alfvén wave can be present in a contaminated plasma in cases where it is absent without ion contamination.
A new surgical procedure for type II total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage
Authors: Nakanishi Keisuke , Kawasaki Shiori , Amano Atsushi
Published: February 2018

We report two cases of successful surgical repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage. Our new surgical procedure for type IIa and IIb total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage has more advantages than the conventional rerouting method using an artificial or native pericardial patch.