bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing Passivation in Lithium–Sulfur Battery Under Lean Electrolyte Condition
Authors: Pan Huilin , Han Kee Sung , Engelhard Mark H. , Cao Ruiguo , Chen Junzheng , Zhang Ji‐Guang , Mueller Karl T. , Shao Yuyan , Liu Jun
Published: February 2018

Reducing the electrolyte amount is critical for the high specific energy of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries in practice. The reduced electrolyte condition (a so‐called “lean electrolyte”) raises a complex situation for sulfur redox reactions since the reactions rely on the electrolyte mediation. The insulating nature of discharge product Li2S and its uncontrollable accumulation (passivation) at the cathode interface is one of the major challenges for stable cycling of a Li–S battery under lean electrolyte condition. In this study, it is presented that the NH4TFSI additive in electrolyte solution greatly alleviates the passivation issue in Li–S batteries under lean electrolyte conditions. The ammonium additive enhances the dissociation of Li2S and largely reduces the insoluble and large Li2S particles in the sulfur cathodes, which facilitate the reversible and sustainable redox reactions of sulfur. Therefore, the cycle life of Li–S batteries under lean electrolyte conditions is significantly improved. In addition, it is found that the morphology of Li anodes is dependent on the cathode structures. An ammonium additive enables homogeneous surface of cathode and Li anode and extended cycle life.
Carbon dioxide chemical absorption by solvents based on diamine and amines blend
Authors: Cachaza Alberto , Gómez‐Díaz Diego , Montáns Adrián , Navaza José M. , Rumbo Antonio
Published: February 2018

Present work includes research about the influence of the type of amino group using one or two amine molecules on carbon dioxide chemical absorption using aqueous solutions of alkanolamines and diamines. A comparison of chemical absorption processes using aqueous solutions of two individual diamines (3‐(dimethylamino)propan‐1‐amine and 1,3‐diaminopropane) and a mixture of amines (3‐amino‐1‐propanol and 3‐(dimethylamino)propan‐1‐ol) is reported including absorption rate curves, carbon dioxide loading, reaction mechanism or solvent regeneration to obtain useful information about the quality of each solvent for carbon dioxide separation. In general, amines blend of 3‐amino‐1‐propanol and 3‐dimethylamino‐1‐propanol, have shown a better behavior than their individual amines. Diamines and mainly 3‐dimethylamino propylamine that presents primary and tertiary amine groups in its structure, have led similar results. After these studies, 3‐dimethylamino propylamine, can be considered an appropriated amine to industrial carbon dioxide absorption process. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 2702–2710, 2018
Quantified mass transfer and superior antiflooding performance of ordered macro‐mesoporous electrocatalysts
Authors: Wang Min Jie , Zhao Tao , Luo Wei , Mao Zhan Xin , Chen Siguo , Ding Wei , Deng Yonghui , Li Wei , Li Jing , Wei Zidong
Published: February 2018

For oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), constructing porous catalysts are highly important for mass transfer inside. However, the various porous structures usually possess significantly different water buffer efficiency, that is, the antiflooding capability, for which one is still difficult to give a quantitative evaluation. In this work, we designed a special “rattle‐drum” like working electrode, by which an exactly quantitative assessment on the mass transfer efficiencies can be conducted. Particularly, ordered macro‐mesoporous Pt/C shows quantified mass transfer and antiflooding efficiency to be four times high as that of the commercial one. This observation should be attributed to their different pore characteristics, as the dual‐porosity Pt/C has 3.4 times the pore volume of the commercial one, together with regular pore arrangement. Simultaneously, it also demonstrated excellent durability, indicating that the macro‐mesoporous Pt/C indeed owns high stability in both antiflooding and durability. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 2881–2889, 2018
Contribution of dental tissues to sex determination in modern human populations
Authors: García‐Campos Cecilia , Martinón‐Torres María , Martín‐Francés Laura , Martínez de Pinillos Marina , Modesto‐Mata Mario , Perea‐Pérez Bernardo , Zanolli Clément , Labajo González Elena , Sánchez Sánchez José Antonio , Ruiz Mediavilla Elena , Tuniz Claudio , Bermúdez de Castro José María
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Accurate sex estimation is an essential step for the reconstruction of the biological profile of human remains. Earlier studies have shown that elements of the human permanent dentition are sexually dimorphic. The aims of this study are to determine the degree of sexual dimorphism in the dental tissue volumes and surface areas of mandibular canines and to explore its potential for reliable sex determination.

Method

The teeth included in this study (n = 69) were selected from anthropological collections from Spain, South Africa and Sudan. In all cases, the sex of the individuals was known. The teeth were scanned and three‐dimensional (3D) measurements (volumes and surfaces areas) were obtained. Finally, a dsicriminant function analysis was applied.

Results

Our results showed that sexual dimorphism in canine size is due to males having greater amounts of dentine, whereas enamel volume does not contribute significantly to overall tooth size dimorphism. Classification accuracy of the multivariable equations tested on slightly worn teeth ranged from 78 to 90.2% for the crossvalidation, and from 71.43 to 84.62% for the hold‐out sample validation. When all functions were applied together, the sex was correctly assigned 92.30% of the time.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the 3D variables from mandibular canine dental tissues are useful for sex determination as they present a high degree of dimorphism. The results obtained show the importance of 3D dental tissue measurements as a methodology in sex determination, which application should be considered as a supplemental method to others.
New insights into the viscosity features of cationic polyacrylamide microgels in aqueous solutions
Authors: Li Guanghui , Zhao Xiaoyun , Chu Qingzhong
Published: February 2018

Increasing attention has recently been paid to the rheological behavior of microgel colloids and to the physical forces that control their behavior. Here, based on a series of cationic microgels that were synthesized by inverse microemulsion polymerization, the physical forces were explored by viscosity analysis of swollen microgels with different crosslinking densities and cationic contents. The results indicate that within a wide concentration range, the viscosity curves for these cationic microgels perfectly correspond to the Krieger–Dougherty model as modified by Tan et al. In particular, the specific volume in this model decreases at the critical overlapping concentration and reveals the interaction intensity between neighboring microgels. Furthermore, the viscosity index in the Herschel–Bulkley equation indicates that the interaction domain among microgels undergoes a transfer from an electroviscous effect to osmotic deswelling with increasing concentrations. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46297.
Acrylic pressure‐sensitive adhesives with nanodiamonds and acid–base dependence of the pressure‐sensitive adhesive properties
Authors: Mizutani Kota , Hongo Chizuru , Matsumoto Takuya , Nishino Takashi
Published: February 2018

A high performance and functional properties in pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSAs) are attractive in fundamental and industrial fields. To control the performance of PSAs, nanofillers have been loaded into them. In this study, we focused on composites of acrylic PSAs and nanodiamonds (NDs). The loaded NDs reinforced the mechanical properties and increased the performance of the PSAs. NDs in a PSA formed a network structure. In this study, we revealed that the acidic–basic state was a key factor in the control of the dispersion of the NDs. When a PSA emulsions and ND aqueous dispersion was mixed under basic conditions, the composites demonstrated higher PSA properties (tack, holding, and peeling strength). We investigated the effect of the ND loading on the PSA properties from the viewpoints of the nanostructure and acid–base interactions. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46349.
Macroporous temperature‐sensitive gels with fast response: Comparison of preparation methods
Authors: Drozdov Aleksey D. , deClaville Christiansen Jesper
Published: February 2018

Application of thermo‐responsive gels as soft actuators for microfluidic devices with repeating “open–close” cycles requires high rates of water transport driven by changes in temperature. These rates are conventionally evaluated by comparison of water retention curves in T‐jump tests with fixed initial and final temperatures. A shortcoming of this method is that it does not allow changes in diffusivity with temperature to be assessed quantitatively. To characterize cooperative diffusivity of water molecules, we propose a novel approach based on modeling the responses of temperature‐sensitive gels in equilibrium swelling tests and T‐jump experiments. Analysis of observations on poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) gels synthesized in aqueous solutions of pore‐forming agents reveals that formation of a macroporous structure in a gel is a necessary, but not sufficient condition for acceleration of water transport. The effect of cosolvents used under preparation (phenol, ethanol, methanol, diethyl ether, dioxane, sucrose, and dodecyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium bromide) on water diffusivity is studied in detail. It is shown that the most pronounced enhancement of diffusivities under deswelling and reswelling is reached when the gels are synthesized in aqueous solutions of the surfactant at subzero temperatures. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46353.
Design of robust and photoluminescence‐responsive materials based on poly(methacrylic acid‐co‐m‐phenylenediamine) with graphene oxide composite hydrogels and its adsorption
Authors: Chen Bing , Li Tingting , Zhang Zheng , Wang Sui , Guo Zhiyong , Hu Yufang
Published: February 2018

A promising strategy to design crosslinked photoluminescent hydrogel (PL hydrogel) is to synthesize the covalently bonded polymer chains by thermal polymerization. A proper ratio of methacrylic acid and m‐phenylenediamine was used to prepare the PL hydrogel, and doping with graphene oxide and carboxymethyl chitosan improves the structure of the gel. The green and efficient hydrothermal synthesis realized a high polymerization and a short reaction time. Meanwhile, a series of properties were investigated for several combinations of hydrogels. Ultraviolet spectra, fluorescence spectra, and particle size distributions were used to characterize the PL composites. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, rheological studies, and stress–strain tests were conducted to characterize the morphology, structure, and performance of the compound hydrogel. The adsorption properties of the PL hydrogel were characterized in adsorption tests. The results indicated that the PL hydrogel exhibited a favorable luminescence property, a certain degree of mechanical strength, and good adsorption performance. The prepared PL hydrogel has potential applications in adsorption and visual detection. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46354.
Property improvements of thermoplastic copolyester with a multifunctional mixture/nanofiller by reactive extrusion
Authors: Alosime Eid M. , Edwards Grant A. , Martin Darren J.
Published: February 2018

The approach of processing reactive functional nanofillers into thermoplastic copolyester (TPE‐E) using reactive extrusion (REX) has been explored. The mixing of a hydroxyl‐bearing organo‐fluoromica combined in toluene with a tetraglycidyl‐4,4‐diamino‐diphenylmethane (TGDDM) led to the intercalation of the TGDDM molecule into the interlayer space. Subsequent REX work involved processing TPE‐E with 0.3% (w/w) TGDDM and 2% (w/w) organoclay in a twin‐screw extruder. It is demonstrated that the effects of the modification route to control morphology on the nanoscale could be systematically investigated. The hard segment acted as a physical crosslink, imparting elastomeric properties on the soft segment. Increases seen in creep resistance and reduction in the water vapor transmission rate of TPE‐E proved that the reactive organo‐fluoromica was able to promote enhanced dimensional stability and barrier properties of TPE‐E. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46369.
Photophysics and Photocatalysis of Melem: A Spectroscopic Reinvestigation
Authors: Wen Jing , Li Ruiyu , Lu Rong , Yu Anchi
Published: February 2018

Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐CN) is one potential metal‐free photocatalyst. The photocatalytic mechanism of g‐CN is related to the heptazine ring building unit. Melem is the simplest heptazine‐based compound and g‐CN is its polymeric product. Thus, studies on the photophysical properties of melem will help to understand the photocatalytic mechanism of heptazine‐based materials. Herein, the spectroscopic features of melem were systematically explored through measuring its absorption spectrum, fluorescence spectrum, and fluorescence decay. Both fluorescence spectroscopy and fluorescence decay measurements show that the condensation of melamine to melem causes stronger photoluminescence, whereas the condensation of melem to g‐CN causes weaker photoluminescence. In addition, all observations reveal that a mixture of monomer melem and its higher condensates is more easily obtained during the preparation of melem, and that the higher condensates of melem affect the photophysical properties of melem dominantly. The photocatalytic hydrogen evolution of melem has also been measured and the monomer melem has negligible photoinduced water‐splitting activity.
Evaluation of the metabolic capability of primary human hepatocytes in three‐dimensional cultures on microstructural plates
Authors: Koyama Satoshi , Arakawa Hiroshi , Itoh Manabu , Masuda Norio , Yano Kentaro , Kojima Hajime , Ogihara Takuo
Published: February 2018

The NanoCulture Plate (NCP) is a novel microstructural plate designed as a base for the three‐dimensional culture of cells/tissues. This study examined whether or not the metabolic capability of human primary hepatocytes is well maintained during culture on NCPs. The hepatocytes formed aggregates after seeding and their ATP content was well maintained during culture for 21 days. Expression of CYP1A2, 2B6, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1 and 3A4 mRNAs was detected throughout the 21‐day culture period. Addition of CYP substrate drugs (midazolam, diclofenac, lamotrigine and acetaminophen) resulted in the formation of multiple metabolites with a corresponding decrease in the amounts of the unchanged compounds. The inducers omeprazole, phenobarbital and rifampicin increased the levels of CYP1A2, 2B6 and 3A4 mRNAs by 110‐fold, 12.5‐fold and 5.4‐fold, respectively, at day 2, compared with control human hepatocytes. CYP activities were also increased at 2 days after inducer treatment (CYP1A2, 2.2‐fold; CYP2B6, 20.6‐fold; CYP3A4, 3.3‐fold). The results indicate that the hepatocyte spheroids on NCP have detectable and inducible metabolic abilities during the 7‐day culture period.
Binding efficiency of recombinant collagen‐binding basic fibroblast growth factors (CBD‐bFGFs) and their promotion for NIH‐3T3 cell proliferation
Authors: Wu Zhenxu , Zhou Yulai , Chen Li , Hu Mingxin , Wang Yu , Li Linlong , Wang Zongliang , Zhang Peibiao
Published: February 2018

The recombinant basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) containing collagen‐binding domain (CBD) has been found to be a potential therapeutic factor in tissue regeneration. However, its binding efficiency and quantification remain uncertain. In this research, massive recombinant bFGFs with good bioactivity for enhancing the proliferation of NIH‐3T3 cells were achieved. An ELISA‐based quantitative method was set up to investigate the binding efficiency of CBD‐bFGFs on collagen films. It indicated that the CBDs significantly increased the collagen‐binding ability of bFGF (P < .05), with the optimum binding condition first determined to be in the pH range of 7.5‐9.5 (P < .05). Then, the relevant equations to calculate the binding density of bFGF, C‐bFGF, and V‐bFGF were acquired. Analysis confirmed that the bioactivity of immobilized bFGFs was well correlated with the density of growth factor on collagen films. Based on this research, the density of growth factor is a logical and applicable dosage unit for quantification of binding efficiency of growth factors, rather than traditional concentration of soluble growth factors in tissue engineering applications.
Comparative analysis of the outcomes of elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in England and Sweden
Authors: Karthikesalingam A , Grima M J , Holt P J , Vidal-Diez A , Thompson M M , Wanhainen A , Bjorck M , Mani K
Published: February 2018

Background

There is substantial international variation in mortality after abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair; many non-operative factors influence risk-adjusted outcomes. This study compared 90-day and 5-year mortality for patients undergoing elective AAA repair in England and Sweden.

Methods

Patients were identified from English Hospital Episode Statistics and the Swedish Vascular Registry between 2003 and 2012. Ninety-day mortality and 5-year survival were compared after adjustment for age and sex. Separate within-country analyses were performed to examine the impact of co-morbidity, hospital teaching status and hospital annual caseload.

Results

The study included 36 249 patients who had AAA treatment in England, with a median age of 74 (i.q.r. 69–79) years, of whom 87·2 per cent were men. There were 7806 patients treated for AAA in Sweden, with a median of age 73 (68–78) years, of whom 82·9 per cent were men. Ninety-day mortality rates were poorer in England than in Sweden (5·0 versus 3·9 per cent respectively; P < 0·001), but were not significantly different after 2007. Five-year survival was poorer in England (70·5 versus 72·8 per cent; P < 0·001). Use of EVAR was initially lower in England, but surpassed that in Sweden after 2010. In both countries, poor outcome was associated with increased age. In England, institutions with higher operative annual volume had lower mortality rates.

Conclusion

Mortality for elective AAA repair was initially poorer in England than Sweden, but improved over time alongside greater uptake of EVAR, and now there is no difference. Centres performing a greater proportion of EVAR procedures achieved better results in England.
Multicentre randomized clinical trial of the effect of chewing gum after abdominal surgery
Authors: de Leede E M , van Leersum N J , Kroon H M , van Weel V , van der Sijp J R M , Bonsing B A , Woltz S , Tromp M , Neijenhuis P A , Maaijen R C L A , Steup W H , Schepers A , Guicherit O R , Huurman V A L , Karsten T M , van de Pool A , Boerma D , Deroose J P , Beek M , Wijsman J H , Derksen W J M , Festen S , de Nes L C F
Published: February 2018

Background

Postoperative ileus is a common complication of abdominal surgery, leading to patient discomfort, morbidity and prolonged postoperative length of hospital stay (LOS). Previous studies suggested that chewing gum stimulates bowel function after abdominal surgery, but were underpowered to evaluate its effect on LOS and did not include enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS)-based perioperative care. This study evaluated whether chewing gum after elective abdominal surgery reduces LOS and time to bowel recovery in the setting of ERAS-based perioperative care.

Methods

A multicentre RCT was performed of patients over 18 years of age undergoing abdominal surgery in 12 hospitals. Standard postoperative care (control group) was compared with chewing gum three times a day for 30 min in addition to standard postoperative care. Randomization was computer-generated; allocation was concealed. The primary outcome was postoperative LOS. Secondary outcomes were time to bowel recovery and 30-day complications.

Results

Between 2011 to 2015, 1000 patients were assigned to chewing gum and 1000 to the control arm. Median LOS did not differ: 7 days in both arms (P = 0·364). Neither was any difference found in time to flatus (24 h in control group versus 23 h with chewing gum; P = 0·873) or time to defaecation (60 versus 52 h respectively; P = 0·562). The rate of 30-day complications was not significantly different either.

Conclusion

The addition of chewing gum to an ERAS postoperative care pathway after elective abdominal surgery does not reduce the LOS, time to bowel recovery or the rate of postoperative complications. Registration number: NTR2594 (Netherlands Trial Register).
Identification of aberrant circulating miRNAs in Parkinson's disease plasma samples
Authors: Chen Lei , Yang Junxiu , Lü Jinhui , Cao Shanshan , Zhao Qian , Yu Zuoren
Published: February 2018

Objective

To detect the aberrant expression of circulating miRNAs and explore the potential early diagnostic biomarkers in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

Plasma samples were collected from 25 treatment‐naïve PD‐diagnosed patients and 25 healthy controls followed by a real‐time PCR‐based miRNA screening analysis of neuron disease‐related miRNAs.

Results

A subset of miRNAs with aberrant expression levels in the plasma of PD‐diagnosed patients were identified including upregulation of miR‐27a and downregulation of let‐7a, let‐7f, miR‐142‐3p, and miR‐222 with the AUC values more than 0.8 derived from the receiver operating characteristic curves.

Conclusions

The high sensitivity and specificity of the circulating miRNAs may enable early diagnosis of PD. The study provides a group of novel miRNA candidates for detecting PD.
Ischemic colitis following left antegrade sclerotherapy for idiopathic varicocele
Authors: Boscolo‐Berto Rafael , Macchi Veronica , Porzionato Andrea , Morra Aldo , Vezzaro Roberto , Loukas Marios , Tubbs R. Shane , De Caro Raffaele
Published: February 2018

The Tauber procedure, i.e., antegrade sclerotherapy for varicocele, can lead to ischemic colitis. The pathogenesis can involve an atypical systemic‐portal communication, which could represent an infrequently reported (rare) anatomical variant. The aim of this study is to review clinical cases from the literature to highlight the anatomical bases of such complications. A computer‐aided and hand‐checked review of the literature was used to identify relevant publications. Also, the computed tomography (CT) examination of a clinical case with medico‐legal implications due to severe vascular complication following Tauber's procedure was reviewed. Although specific references to this complication have appeared since the 19th century, reports in the contemporary literature include only a few clinical cases of ischemic colitis following Tauber's procedure. The CT scan images of a filed lawsuit revealed traces suggesting a significant communication between the testicular and left colic veins, forming part of the systemic‐portal anastomoses. An anatomical variation consisting of a communication between the testicular and left colic veins has been described from the clinical point of view, corresponding to a significant anatomical finding identified in the past that has been under‐reported and its clinical importance subsequently underestimated. For the first time we have demonstrated its pathophysiological significance in a real clinical scenario, linking the anatomical variation to the clinical complication. This demonstrates the importance of raising scientific awareness on this issue to prevent possibly devastating complications in daily clinical practice. Clin. Anat. 31:774–781, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic variables for temporal lobe injury after intensity modulated‐radiotherapy of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Feng Mei , Huang Yecai , Fan Xigang , Xu Peng , Lang Jinyi , Wang Dian
Published: February 2018

To determine predictive factors for temporal lobe injury (TLI) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patient (NPC) treated with intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). A total of 695 NPC cases treated with IMRT were retrospectively analyzed. TLI was diagnosed on MRI images. Volume‐dose histograms for 870 evaluable temporal lobes were analyzed, and the predictive factors for the occurrence of TLI was evaluated. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and Logistic regression analysis was used to determine volume‐dose parameters that predict temporal lobe injury (TLI). Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to analyze the predictive factors for TLI. The radiation dose‐tolerance model of temporal lobe was calculated by logistic dose‐response model. The median follow‐up time was 73 months. A total of 8.5% patients were diagnosed with TLI. Among all the volume‐dose parameters, logistic regression model showed D2cc (the dose Gray delivered to 2 cubic centimeter volume) was an only independent predictive factor. Multivariate analysis showed D2cc of temporal lobe, fraction size of prescription, T stage, and chemotherapy were the independent predictive factors for TLI. Logistic dose‐response model has indicated the TD5/5 and TD50/5 of D2cc are 60.3 Gy and 76.9 Gy, respectively. D2cc of temporal lobe, fraction size of prescription, T stage, and chemotherapy were the possible independent predictive factors for TLI after IMRT of NPC. Biologic effective doses (TD5/5 and TD50/5) of D2cc are considered to prevent TLI.
Establishment and characterization of in vivo orthotopic bioluminescent xenograft models from human osteosarcoma cell lines in Swiss nude and NSG mice
Authors: Marques da Costa Maria Eugenia , Daudigeos‐Dubus Estelle , Gomez‐Brouchet Anne , Bawa Olivia , Rouffiac Valerie , Serra Massimo , Scotlandi Katia , Santos Conceição , Geoerger Birgit , Gaspar Nathalie
Published: February 2018

Osteosarcoma is one of the most common primary bone tumors in childhood and adolescence. Metastases occurrence at diagnosis or during disease evolution is the main therapeutic challenge. New drug evaluation to improve patient survival requires the development of various preclinical models mimicking at best the complexity of the disease and its metastatic potential. We describe here the development and characteristics of two orthotopic bioluminescent (Luc/mKate2) cell‐derived xenograft (CDX) models, Saos‐2‐B‐Luc/mKate2‐CDX and HOS‐Luc/mKate2‐CDX, in different immune (nude and NSG mouse strains) and bone (intratibial and paratibial with periosteum activation) contexts. IVIS SpectrumCT system allowed both longitudinal computed tomography (CT) and bioluminescence real‐time follow‐up of primary tumor growth and metastatic spread, which was confirmed by histology. The murine immune context influenced tumor engraftment, primary tumor growth, and metastatic spread to lungs, bone, and spleen (an unusual localization in humans). Engraftment in NSG mice was found superior to that found in nude mice and intratibial bone environment more favorable to engraftment compared to paratibial injection. The genetic background of the two CDX models also led to distinct primary tumor behavior observed on CT scan. Saos‐2‐B‐Luc/mKate2‐CDX showed osteocondensed, HOS‐Luc/mKate2‐CDX osteolytic morphology. Bioluminescence defined a faster growth of the primary tumor and metastases in Saos‐2‐B‐Luc/mKate2‐CDX than in HOS‐Luc/mKate2‐CDX. The early detection of primary tumor growth and metastatic spread by bioluminescence allows an improved exploration of osteosarcoma disease at tumor progression, and metastatic spread, as well as the evaluations of anticancer treatments. Our orthotopic models with metastatic spread bring complementary information to other types of existing osteosarcoma models.
Retracted: LncRNA HOTAIR influences cell growth, migration, invasion, and apoptosis via the miR‐20a‐5p/HMGA2 axis in breast cancer
Authors: Zhao Wenyan , Geng Donghua , Li Shuqiang , Chen Zhaofu , Sun Ming
Published: February 2018

To study the regulatory effect of lncRNA HOTAIR/miR‐20a‐5p/HMGA2 axis on breast cancer (BC) cell growth, cell mobility, invasiveness, and apoptosis. The microarray data of lncRNAs and mRNAs with differential expression in BC tissues were analyzed in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. LncRNA HOX transcript antisense RNA (lncRNA HOTAIR) expression in BC was assessed by qRT‐PCR. Cell viability was confirmed using MTT and colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis was analyzed by TdT‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling (TUNEL) assay. Cell mobility and invasiveness were testified by transwell assay. RNA pull‐down and dual luciferase assay were used for analysis of the correlation between lncRNA HOTAIR and miR‐20a‐5p, as well as relationship of miR‐20a‐5p with high mobility group AT‐hook 2 (HMGA2). Tumor xenograft study was applied to confirm the correlation of lncRNA HOTAIR/miR‐20a‐5p/HMGA2 axis on BC development in vivo. The expression levels of the lncRNA HOTAIR were upregulated in BC tissues and cells. Knockdown lncRNA HOTAIR inhibited cell propagation and metastasis and facilitated cell apoptosis. MiR‐20a‐5p was a target of lncRNA HOTAIR and had a negative correlation with lncRNA HOTAIR. MiR‐20a‐5p overexpression in BC suppressed cell growth, mobility, and invasiveness and facilitated apoptosis. HMGA2 was a target of miR‐20a‐5p, which significantly induced carcinogenesis of BC. BC cells progression was mediated by lncRNA HOTAIR via affecting miR‐20a‐5p/HMGA2 in vivo. LncRNA HOTAIR affected cell growth, metastasis, and apoptosis via the miR‐20a‐5p/HMGA2 axis in breast cancer.
Epiconus syndrome induced only in the erect standing position in a patient with L1 compression fracture: a representative case report
Authors: Kubota Kenji , Abe Koki , Orita Sumihisa , Inage Kazuhide , Suzuki Miyako , Sato Jun , Fujimoto Kazuki , Shiga Yasuhiro , Kanamoto Hirohito , Inoue Masahiro , Kinoshita Hideyuki , Norimoto Masaki , Umimura Tomotaka , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Ohtori Seiji
Published: February 2018

Key Clinical Message

In daily practice, when CT or MRI does not show a pathological lesion in a patient with persistent abnormal neurological signs, it is important to obtain imaging studies of the spine in dynamic position.
Safety profile of avelumab in patients with advanced solid tumors: A pooled analysis of data from the phase 1 JAVELIN solid tumor and phase 2 JAVELIN Merkel 200 clinical trials
Authors: Kelly Karen , Infante Jeffrey R. , Taylor Matthew H. , Patel Manish R. , Wong Deborah J. , Iannotti Nicholas , Mehnert Janice M. , Loos Anja H. , Koch Helga , Speit Isabell , Gulley James L.
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Antibodies targeting the programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1)/programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) checkpoint may cause adverse events (AEs) that are linked to the mechanism of action of this therapeutic class and unique from those observed with conventional chemotherapy.

METHODS

Patients with advanced solid tumors who were enrolled in the phase 1 JAVELIN Solid Tumor (1650 patients) and phase 2 JAVELIN Merkel 200 (88 patients) trials received avelumab, a human anti–PD‐L1 IgG1 antibody at a dose of 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks. Treatment‐related AEs (TRAEs) were graded using the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.0). In post hoc analyses, immune‐related AEs (irAEs) were identified via an expanded AE list and medical review, and infusion‐related reactions (IRRs) occurring ≤2 days after infusion and symptoms occurring ≤1 day after infusion and resolving ≤2 days after onset were identified based on prespecified Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) terms.

RESULTS

Of the 1738 patients analyzed, grade ≥3 TRAEs occurred in 177 (10.2%); the most common were fatigue (17 patients; 1.0%) and IRR (10 patients; 0.6%). TRAEs led to discontinuation in 107 patients (6.2%) and death in 4 patients (0.2%). Grade ≥3 irAEs occurred in 39 patients (2.2%) and led to discontinuation in 34 patients (2.0%). IRRs or related symptoms occurred in 439 patients (25.3%; grade 3 in 0.5% [9 patients] and grade 4 in 0.2% [3 patients]). An IRR occurred at the time of first infusion in 79.5% of 439 patients who had an IRR, within the first 4 doses in 98.6% of 439 patients who had an IRR, and led to discontinuation in 35 patients (2.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Avelumab generally was found to be well tolerated and to have a manageable safety profile. A minority of patients experienced grade ≥3 TRAEs or irAEs, and discontinuation was uncommon. IRRs occurred mainly at the time of first infusion, and repeated events were infrequent. Cancer 2018;124:2010‐7. © 2018 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution‐NonCommercial License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited and is not used for commercial purposes.
Efferent projections of excitatory and inhibitory preBötzinger Complex neurons
Authors: Yang Cindy F. , Feldman Jack L.
Published: February 2018

The preBötzinger Complex (preBötC), a compact medullary region essential for generating normal breathing rhythm and pattern, is the kernel of the breathing central pattern generator (CPG). Excitatory preBötC neurons in rats project to major breathing‐related brainstem regions. Here, we provide a brainstem connectivity map in mice for both excitatory and inhibitory preBötC neurons. Using a genetic strategy to label preBötC neurons, we confirmed extensive projections of preBötC excitatory neurons within the brainstem breathing CPG including the contralateral preBötC, Bötzinger Complex (BötC), ventral respiratory group, nucleus of the solitary tract, parahypoglossal nucleus, parafacial region (RTN/pFRG or alternatively, pFL/pFV), parabrachial and Kölliker‐Füse nuclei, as well as major projections to the midbrain periaqueductal gray. Interestingly, preBötC inhibitory projections paralleled the excitatory projections. Moreover, we examined overlapping projections in the pons in detail and found that they targeted the same neurons. We further explored the direct anatomical link between the preBötC and suprapontine brain regions that may govern emotion and other complex behaviors that can affect or be affected by breathing. Forebrain efferent projections were sparse and restricted to specific nuclei within the thalamus and hypothalamus, with processes rarely observed in cortex, basal ganglia, or other limbic regions, e.g., amygdala or hippocampus. We conclude that the preBötC sends direct, presumably inspiratory‐modulated, excitatory and inhibitory projections in parallel to distinct targets throughout the brain that generate and modulate breathing pattern and/or coordinate breathing with other behaviors, physiology, cognition, or emotional state.
Overview of the Baculovirus Expression System
Authors: Chambers Adam C. , Aksular Mine , Graves Leo P. , Irons Sarah L. , Possee Robert D. , King Linda A.
Published: February 2018

This unit provides information on the replication cycle of insect baculovirus to provide an understanding of how this virus has been adapted for use as an expression vector for recombinant proteins in insect cells. We provide an overview of the virus structure and its unique bi‐phasic replication cycle, which has been exploited in developing the virus as an expression vector. We also review the development of the baculovirus expression vector system (BEVS), from the mid‐1980s to the present day in which the BEVS is now an established tool for the production of a range of recombinant proteins and multi‐protein complexes including virus‐like particles. We describe advances made to the BEVS to allow the rapid and easy production of recombinant viruses and developments to improve protein yield. We finish by describing the application of recombinant BacMam as vectors for the delivery of genes into mammalian and human cells. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Protein Detection in Gels Using Fixation
Authors: Beer Lynn A. , Speicher David W.
Published: February 2018

The most commonly used types of gels for separating proteins are SDS gels, either in a 1‐D format or as the second dimension of various 2‐D separations, and the most common methods of visualizing proteins in these gels use protein binding dyes after fixing the proteins in the gel matrix. In recent years, there has been a continuing trend away from preparing staining solutions in the laboratory to using commercially available kits, which are convenient, save time, have defined shelf lives, and may provide greater reproducibility than stains formulated in research laboratories. In general, when using commercial kits, satisfactory results can be readily obtained by following the manufacturer's protocols. This unit reviews commonly used fixation‐based stains and provides a number of manual formulations with staining protocols for those who prefer such staining methods. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Identification and functional analysis of a novel G310D variant in the insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) gene associated with type 2 diabetes in American Indians
Authors: Muller Yunhua L. , Skelton Graham , Piaggi Paolo , Chen Peng , Nair Anup , Kobes Sayuko , Hsueh Wen‐Chi , Knowler William C. , Hanson Robert L. , Baier Leslie J. , Bogardus Clifton
Published: February 2018

Aims

Insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) is involved in cell growth and glucose homeostasis. In the current study, the IGF1R locus was analysed as a candidate gene for type 2 diabetes (T2D) in American Indians.

Materials and methods

Whole genome sequence data from 335 American Indians identified 3 novel missense variants in IGF1R. The associations of IGF1R variants with T2D, age of T2D onset and birth weight were analysed in a population‐based sample of 7701 American Indians.

Results

A novel glycine‐to‐aspartic acid substitution (G310D) in IGF1R was identified, which associated with T2D in a sex‐specific manner (Psex interaction = 0.02). In women, the aspartic acid (D) allele (frequency = 0.034) was associated with increased risk for T2D (n = 4292, P = 2.0 × 10−5 adjusted for age, birth year, and the first 5 genetic principal components; odds ratio [OR] = 2.23 [1.54‐3.23] per risk allele) and an earlier age of T2D onset (n = 4292, P = 2 × 10−4, hazard rate ratio = 1.45 [1.20‐1.75], Psex interaction = 0.05). Female carriers of the D‐allele also had lower birth weight (n = 1313, β = −163 g, P = .006, Psex interaction = 0.008). Among 85 siblings discordant for G310D, carriers of the D‐allele had shorter stature as compared with carriers of the G‐allele (β = −1.6 cm, P = .001, within family model). The G310D variant was functionally studied in vitro, where the D‐allele had a 22% increase (P = .0005) in FOXO1‐induced transcriptional activity, due to decreased activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway mediated through reduced IGF1R activity.

Conclusion

A unique G310D variant in IGF1R, which occurs in 6% American Indians, may impair IGF1R signalling pathways, thereby increasing the risk of T2D.
Adult spinal opioid receptor μ1 expression after incision is altered by early life repetitive tactile and noxious procedures in rats
Authors: van den Hoogen Nynke J. , van Reij Roel RI , Patijn Jacob , Tibboel Dick , Joosten Elbert A. J.
Published: February 2018

Clinical and experimental data suggests that noxious stimulation at critical stages of development results in long‐term changes on nociceptive processing in later life. Here, we use an established, well‐documented rat model of repetitive noxious procedures closely mimicking the clinical situation in the NICU. In order to understand molecular changes underlying the long‐term consequences of repetitive stimulation of the developing nociceptive system the present study aims to analyze the presence of the µ‐opioid‐receptor‐1 (OPRM1). Neonatal rats received either four needle pricks per day in the left hind‐paw from postnatal day 0–7 as a model of procedural pain in infancy. Control pups were handled in the same way but were instead tactile stimulated, or were left undisturbed. At the age of 8 weeks, all animals received an ipsilateral hind‐paw incision as a model for post‐operative pain, and mechanical sensitivity was tested at multiple time‐points. Before, and 1 or 5 days post‐incision, spinal cord tissue was collected for immunostaining of opioid receptor OPRM1. Semi‐quantitative immunocytochemical analysis of superficial laminae in lumbar spinal dorsal horn revealed that: (1) early life repetitive tactile or noxious procedures do not alter baseline levels of OPRM1 staining intensity and (2) early life repetitive tactile or noxious procedures lead to a decrease in OPRM1 staining intensity 5 days after incision in adulthood compared to undisturbed controls. We conclude that early life repetitive tactile or noxious procedures affect the intensity of OPRM1‐immunoreactivity in the lumbar superficial spinal cord dorsal horn after adulthood injury, without affecting baseline intensity. © 2018 The Authors. Developmental Neurobiology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 78: 417–426, 2018
Timing of precipitation in an arid environment: Effects on population performance of a large herbivore
Authors: Heffelfinger Levi J. , Stewart Kelley M. , Bush Anthony P. , Sedinger James S. , Darby Neal W. , Bleich Vernon C.
Published: February 2018

Climate models predict that shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns are likely to occur across the globe. Changing climate will likely have strong effects on arid environments as a result of increased temperatures, increasing frequency and intensity of droughts, and less consistent pulses of rainfall. Therefore, understanding the link between patterns of precipitation, temperature, and population performance of species occupying these environments will continue to increase in importance as climatic shifts occur within these natural ecosystems. We sought to evaluate how individual, maternal, population, and environmental, particularly temperature and precipitation, level factors influence population performance of a large herbivore in an arid environment. We used mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) as a representative species and quantified juvenile survival to test hypotheses about effects of environmental factors on population performance. Precipitation events occurring in mid‐ to late‐pregnancy (January–April) leading to spring green‐up, as indexed by normalized difference in vegetation index, had the strongest positive effect on juvenile survival and recruitment. In addition, larger neonates had an increased probability of survival. Our findings indicate that timing and amount of precipitation prior to parturition have strong influences on maternal nutritional condition, which was passed on to young. These results have important implications for understanding how animal populations may benefit from timing of precipitation during spring and prior to parturition, especially in arid environments.
What determines prey selection in owls? Roles of prey traits, prey class, environmental variables, and taxonomic specialization
Authors: Comay Orr , Dayan Tamar
Published: February 2018

Ecological theory suggests that prey size should increase with predator size, but this trend may be masked by other factors affecting prey selection, such as environmental constraints or specific prey preferences of predator species. Owls are an ideal case study for exploring how predator body size affects prey selection in the presence of other factors due to the ease of analyzing their diets from owl pellets and their widespread distributions, allowing interspecific comparisons between variable habitats. Here, we analyze various dimensions of prey resource selection among owls, including prey size, taxonomy (i.e., whether or not particular taxa are favored regardless of their size), and prey traits (movement type, social structure, activity pattern, and diet). We collected pellets of five sympatric owl species (Athene noctua, Tyto alba, Asio otus, Strix aluco, and Bubo bubo) from 78 sites across the Mediterranean Levant. Prey intake was compared between sites, with various environmental variables and owl species as predictors of abundance. Despite significant environmental impacts on prey intake, some key patterns emerge among owl species studied. Owls select prey by predator body size: Larger owls tend to feed on wider ranges of prey sizes, leading to higher means. In addition, guild members show both specialization and generalism in terms of prey taxa, sometimes in contrast with the expectations of the predator–prey body size hypothesis. Our results suggest that while predator body size is an important factor in prey selection, taxon specialization by predator species also has considerable impact.
Projected effects of Climate‐change‐induced flow alterations on stream macroinvertebrate abundances
Authors: Kakouei Karan , Kiesel Jens , Domisch Sami , Irving Katie S. , Jähnig Sonja C. , Kail Jochem
Published: February 2018

Global change has the potential to affect river flow conditions which are fundamental determinants of physical habitats. Predictions of the effects of flow alterations on aquatic biota have mostly been assessed based on species ecological traits (e.g., current preferences), which are difficult to link to quantitative discharge data. Alternatively, we used empirically derived predictive relationships for species’ response to flow to assess the effect of flow alterations due to climate change in two contrasting central European river catchments. Predictive relationships were set up for 294 individual species based on (1) abundance data from 223 sampling sites in the Kinzig lower‐mountainous catchment and 67 sites in the Treene lowland catchment, and (2) flow conditions at these sites described by five flow metrics quantifying the duration, frequency, magnitude, timing and rate of flow events using present‐day gauging data. Species’ abundances were predicted for three periods: (1) baseline (1998–2017), (2) horizon 2050 (2046–2065) and (3) horizon 2090 (2080–2099) based on these empirical relationships and using high‐resolution modeled discharge data for the present and future climate conditions. We compared the differences in predicted abundances among periods for individual species at each site, where the percent change served as a proxy to assess the potential species responses to flow alterations. Climate change was predicted to most strongly affect the low‐flow conditions, leading to decreased abundances of species up to −42%. Finally combining the response of all species over all metrics indicated increasing overall species assemblage responses in 98% of the studied river reaches in both projected horizons and were significantly larger in the lower‐mountainous Kinzig compared to the lowland Treene catchment. Such quantitative analyses of freshwater taxa responses to flow alterations provide valuable tools for predicting potential climate‐change impacts on species abundances and can be applied to any stressor, species, or region.