bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unmodern Synthesis: Developmental Hierarchies and the Origin of Phenotypes
Authors: Gawne Richard , McKenna Kenneth Z. , Nijhout H. Frederik
Published: November 2017

The question of whether the modern evolutionary synthesis requires an extension has recently become a topic of discussion, and a source of controversy. We suggest that this debate is, for the most part, not about the modern synthesis at all. Rather, it is about the extent to which genetic mechanisms can be regarded as the primary determinants of phenotypic characters. The modern synthesis has been associated with the idea that phenotypes are the result of gene products, while supporters of the extended synthesis have suggested that environmental factors, along with processes such as epigenetic inheritance, and niche construction play an important role in character formation. We argue that the methodology of the modern evolutionary synthesis has been enormously successful, but does not provide an accurate characterization of the origin of phenotypes. For its part, the extended synthesis has yet to be transformed into a testable theory, and accordingly, has yielded few results. We conclude by suggesting that the origin of phenotypes can only be understood by integrating findings from all levels of the organismal hierarchy. In most cases, parts and processes from a single level fail to accurately explain the presence of a given phenotypic trait.
Selective detection of α4β1 integrin (VLA‐4)‐expressing cells using peptide‐functionalized nanostructured materials mimicking endothelial surfaces adjacent to inflammatory sites
Authors: De Marco Rossella , Greco Arianna , Calonghi Natalia , Dattoli Samantha D. , Baiula Monica , Spampinato Santi , Picchetti Pierre , De Cola Luisa , Anselmi Michele , Cipriani Francesca , Gentilucci Luca
Published: November 2017

Persistent accumulation of immune cells mediated by α4β1 integrin (VLA‐4) is a hallmark of the inflammatory diseases and of chronic inflammation observed in the affected tissues of autoimmune diseases. Aiming at exploring new methods for monitoring the course of the inflammatory processes, we designed the first peptide‐functionalized nanostructured devices capable to mimic the high‐density multivalency binding between the α4β1 integrin‐expressing cells and the ligands overexpressed on the endothelial surfaces, in the proximity of the sites of inflammation. Specifically, we describe the first examples of monolayers constituted by dye‐loaded zeolite L crystals, coated with α4β1 integrin peptide ligands, and we analyze the adhesion of model Jurkat cells in comparison to non‐α4β1 integrin‐expressing cells. In particular, the peptidomimetic diphenylurea‐Leu‐Asp‐Val‐diamine allows significant and selective detection of α4β1 integrin‐expressing Jurkat cells, after very rapid incubation time, supporting the possible implementation in a diagnostic device capable to detect the desired cells from biological fluids, obtainable from patients in a noninvasive way.
N‐glycan engineering of a plant‐produced anti‐CD20‐hIL‐2 immunocytokine significantly enhances its effector functions
Authors: Marusic Carla , Pioli Claudio , Stelter Szymon , Novelli Flavia , Lonoce Chiara , Morrocchi Elena , Benvenuto Eugenio , Salzano Anna Maria , Scaloni Andrea , Donini Marcello
Published: November 2017

Anti‐CD20 recombinant antibodies are among the most promising therapeutics for the treatment of B‐cell malignancies such as non‐Hodgkin lymphomas. We recently demonstrated that an immunocytokine (2B8‐Fc‐hIL2), obtained by fusing an anti‐CD20 scFv‐Fc antibody derived from C2B8 mAb (rituximab) to the human interleukin 2 (hIL‐2), can be efficiently produced in Nicotiana benthamiana plants. The purified immunocytokine (IC) bearing a typical plant protein N‐glycosylation profile showed a CD20 binding activity comparable to that of rituximab and was efficient in eliciting antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) of human PBMC against Daudi cells, indicating its fuctional integrity. In this work, the immunocytokine devoid of the typical xylose/fucose N‐glycosylation plant signature (IC‐ΔXF) and the corresponding scFv‐Fc‐ΔXF antibody not fused to the cytokine, were obtained in a glyco‐engineered ΔXylT/FucT N. benthamiana line. Purification yields from agroinfiltrated plants amounted to 20–35 mg/kg of leaf fresh weight. When assayed for interaction with FcγRI and FcγRIIIa, IC‐ΔXF exhibited significantly enhanced binding affinities if compared to the counterpart bearing the typical plant protein N‐glycosylation profile (IC) and to rituximab. The glyco‐engineered recombinant molecules also exhibited a strongly improved ADCC and complement‐dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). Notably, our results demonstrate a reduced C1q binding of xylose/fucose carrying IC and scFv‐Fc compared to versions that lack these sugar moieties. These results demonstrate that specific N‐glycosylation alterations in recombinant products can dramatically affect the effector functions of the immunocytokine, resulting in an overall improvement of the biological functions and consequently of the therapeutic potential.
The anatomy of the musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi flap for neophalloplasty
Authors: Dennis M. , Granger A. , Ortiz A. , Terrell M. , Loukos M. , Schober J.
Published: November 2017

In transgender surgery, the ideal neophallus is one that: (a) is constructed using a reproducible procedure, (b) possesses tactile and erogenous sensation, (c) is large and rigid enough (naturally, or using a prosthesis) to permit penetrative intercourse, (d) leaves acceptable donor site morbidity, (e) results in esthetically satisfactory appearance, and (f) allows for voiding while standing. The musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi (MLD) flap has favorable results in the area of neophalloplasty. Among its advantages are acceptable donor site appearance, stiffness sufficient for intercourse, and esthetically satisfactory genital appearance. The anatomy of the MLD flap supports the creation of a neophallus for transsexual anatomy revision. Herein, we give an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the procedure, and the anatomical details and surgical steps involved. Novel illustrations were created from standard surgical text descriptions to clarify this topic for surgical training and patient understanding and decision making. A review of the relevant literature regarding the anatomy, procedure development, and outcomes is presented. The MLD flap uses part of the latissimus dorsi muscle with branches of the thoracodorsal vessels and nerve to construct a neophallus. A thin strip of muscle around the pedicle is harvested, resulting in a slightly curvilinear scar. The blood supply is connected to the femoral artery and saphenous vein or the deep inferior epigastric artery and vein, while the nerve is connected to the ilioinguinal nerve or the obturator nerve. The MLD flap for neophalloplasty is a reliable graft with a well concealed scar and low donor site morbidity. Clin. Anat. 31:152–159, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The anatomy of abdominal flap phalloplasty for transgender surgery
Authors: Kim Seunghwan , Dennis Margeaux , Holland Jessica , Terrell Mark , Loukas Marios , Schober Justine
Published: November 2017

Abdominal flap phalloplasty is surgical construction of a neophallus using a pedicled abdominal flap for patients transitioning female to male, for males whose penis is congenitally absent, or lost from trauma. It is an option for trans men whose goals do not require urethroplasty or vaginectomy but would like a phallus suitable for male gender appearance. A prosthesis can be placed for penetrative sexual capability. Surgical text descriptions were enhanced by creation of new anatomic illustrations. Anatomy of donor site and surgical technique leading to creation of the neophallus are demonstrated in detail with new relevant illustrations. Significant structures of the donor site of the abdominal flap include the superficial external pudendal artery and ilioinguinal nerve that provide the blood supply and sensory innervation to the base of the flap, respectively. As a pedicled phalloplasty procedure, microsurgical anastomosis is not needed. Patients can expect to have tactile sensation but not innate rigidity. The dorsal nerve of clitoris (and sometimes the clitoris itself) is preserved to provide erogenous sensation. Abdominal flap phalloplasty makes it possible to maintain the natural blood supply and innervation to the neophallus. The neophallus created by abdominal flap phalloplasty has the advantage of homogeneous skin color and texture from contiguous skin. Grafting leaves a less stigmatizing horizontal scar running from one side of the pelvis to the other along the lower abdomen. The anatomy of the abdominal flap phalloplasty supports creation of a neophallus for transsexual anatomy revision. Clin. Anat. 31:181–186, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use and perceptions of plastination among medical anatomy educators in the United States
Authors: Klaus Rachel M. , Royer Danielle F. , Stabio Maureen E.
Published: November 2017

Traditionally, medical schools have maintained collections of tissues/organs to engage students in anatomy. Such collections are often stored in volatile and toxic preservatives. Plastination is an alternative tissue preservation technique in which polymers replace water and lipids resulting in benign, dry, and anatomically authentic specimens. Plastination is used in medical education internationally; however, its use within U.S. medical schools is not widely discussed in the anatomical literature. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, use, and perceptions of plastination as a teaching tool among U.S. anatomy medical educators. A total of 98 medical anatomy educators who fit inclusion criteria and teach allopathic (MD) students and/or osteopathic (DO) students in the United States completed a national survey, representing 77 medical schools across 37 states. Of these, 100% had heard of plastination, 57% correctly defined plastination, but only 39% currently utilize plastinates for anatomy education. The most frequent explanation for nonuse of plastinates was a preference for the dissection experience, followed by lack of resources and negative past experiences related to durability and quality. A majority (75%) of U.S. medical anatomy educators perceived plastination as a good supplement to, but not a replacement for, cadaveric dissection, 19% indicated no curiosity to use plastination or considered it not useful, and 14% expressed ethical concerns. These findings suggest plastinates are more widely used in the United States than reflected by the literature; however, perceptions regarding their utility indicate a dominant theme for their use to supplement, not replace, cadaveric dissection. Clin. Anat, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
2D Enzyme Cascade Network with Efficient Substrate Channeling by Swinging Arms
Authors: Yang Yuhe R. , Fu Jinglin , Wootten Shaun , Qi Xiaodong , Liu Minghui , Yan Hao , Liu Yan
Published: November 2017

In living cells, compartmentalized or membrane‐associated enzymes are often assembled into large networks to cooperatively catalyze cascade reaction pathways essential for cellular metabolism. Here, we report the assembly of an artificial 2D enzyme network of two cascade enzymes—glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)—on a wireframe DNA origami template. Swinging arms were used to facilitate the transport of the redox intermediate of NAD+/NADH between enzyme pairs on the array. The assemblies of 2D enzyme networks were characterized by gel electrophoresis and visualized by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The spatial arrangements of multiple enzyme pairs were optimized to facilitate efficient substrate channeling by exploiting the programmability of DNA origami to manipulate the key parameters of swinging arm length and stoichiometry. Compared with a single enzyme pair, the 2D organized enzyme systems exhibited higher reaction efficiency due to the promoted transfer of intermediates within the network.
Tunable Performance of Manganese Oxide Nanostructures as MRI Contrast Agents
Authors: Bañobre‐López Manuel , García‐Hevia Lorena , Cerqueira M. Fatima , Rivadulla Francisco , Gallo Juan
Published: November 2017

The development of responsive magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents opens the door to a highly sensitive and specific diagnosis of altered physiological conditions. In this field, manganese dioxide (MnO2) is starting to be a leading contributor due to its susceptibility to conditions relevant to human diseased states, such as cancer. So far, the preclinical application of MnO2 has mainly been in the form of nanosheets, with enhancements of magnetic resonance imaging signals up to 50‐fold upon activation. Herein, we thoroughly investigate, through a simple reaction, a series of MnxOy samples and correlate their phase composition and structure/morphology to the performance as classic/responsive MRI contrast agents in response to redox changes. Signal enhancements as high as 140‐fold were obtained from MnO2 nano‐urchins, and their capability as responsive magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents was demonstrated in vitro.
Metal‐Catalyzed Synthesis and Use of Thioesters: Recent Developments
Authors: Hirschbeck Vera , Gehrtz Paul H. , Fleischer Ivana
Published: November 2017

While thioesters are common intermediates in biochemical processes, they are much less appreciated in organic synthesis, also compared to other carboxylic acid derivatives. However, their chemistry and reactivity is intriguing and diversified, reaching much further than the acyl substitution and aldol chemistry. Herein, we focus on metal‐catalyzed reactions for the synthesis of thioesters as well as their transformations. Reactions such as thiocarbonylation, cross‐coupling, decarbonylation, allylic substitution or dual photoredox/metal catalysis are discussed. On one hand, new atom economic methods allow for convenient synthesis of thioesters from well available starting materials. On the other hand, various synthetically important compounds can by synthesized due to the multifaceted reactivity of thioesters that we aimed to depict.
Tsuji–Trost Reaction of Non‐Derivatized Allylic Alcohols
Authors: Akkarasamiyo Sunisa , Sawadjoon Supaporn , Orthaber Andreas , Samec Joseph S. M.
Published: November 2017

Palladium‐catalyzed allylic substitution of non‐derivatized enantioenriched allylic alcohols with a variety of uncharged N‐, S‐, C‐ and O‐centered nucleophiles using a bidentate BiPhePhos ligand is described. A remarkable effect of the counter ion (X) of the XPd[κ2‐BiPhePhos][η3‐C3H5] was observed. When ClPd[κ2‐BiPhePhos][η3‐C3H5] (complex I) was used as catalyst, non‐reproducible results were obtained. Study of the complex by X‐ray crystallography, 31P NMR spectroscopy, and ESI‐MS showed that a decomposition occurred where one of the phosphite ligands was oxidized to the corresponding phosphate, generating ClPd[κ1‐BiPhePhosphite‐phosphate][η3‐C3H5] species (complex II). When the chloride was exchanged to the weaker coordinating OTf− counter ion the more stable Pd[κ2‐BiPhePhos][η3‐C3H5]++[OTf] − (complex III) was formed. Complex III performed better and gave higher enantiospecificities in the substitution reactions. Complex III was evaluated in Tsuji–Trost reactions of stereogenic non‐derivatized allylic alcohols. The desired products were obtained in good to excellent yields (71–98 %) and enantiospecificities (73–99 %) for both inter‐ and intramolecular substitution reactions with only water generated as a by‐product. The methodology was applied to key steps in total synthesis of (S)‐cuspareine and (+)‐lentiginosine. A reaction mechanism involving a palladium hydride as a key intermediate in the activation of the hydroxyl group is proposed in the overall transformation.
Design and Fabrication of Temperature‐Sensitive Nanogels with Controlled Drug Release Properties for Enhanced Photothermal Sterilization
Authors: Li Luoyuan , Fu Limin , Ai Xicheng , Zhang Jianping , Zhou Jing
Published: November 2017

Invited for the cover of this issue is the groups of Limin Fu at the Renmin University of China and Jing Zhou at the Capital Normal University. The image depicts the bacteria being attacked by heat‐activated nanogel drug‐carriers. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201702796.
A 3D Covalent Organic Framework with Exceptionally High Iodine Capture Capability
Authors: Wang Chang , Wang Yu , Ge Rile , Song Xuedan , Xing Xueqing , Jiang Qike , Lu Hui , Hao Ce , Guo Xinwen , Gao Yanan , Jiang Donglin
Published: November 2017

Using porous materials to cope with environmental issues is promising but remains a challenge especially for removing the radioactive vapor wastes in fission because of harsh adsorption conditions. Here we report a new, stable covalent organic framework (COF) as a porous platform for removing iodine vapor—a major radioactive fission waste. The three‐dimensional COF consists of a diamond topology knotted by adamantane units, creates ordered one‐dimensional pores and are highly porous. The COF enables the removal of iodine vapor via charge transfer complex formation with the pore walls to achieve exceptional capacity. Moreover, the 3D COF is “soft” to trigger structural fitting to iodine while retaining connectivity and enables cycle use for many times while retaining high uptake capacity. These results set a new benchmark for fission waste removal and suggest the great potential of COFs as a designable porous material for challenging world‐threatening pollution issues.
CFD‐PBE‐PBE simulation of an airlift loop crystallizer
Authors: Li Qian , Cheng Jingcai , Yang Chao , Mao Zai‐Sha
Published: November 2017

A complete solver (CFD‐PBE‐PBE) for crystallization processes in an airlift loop crystallizer is developed in OpenFOAM (open‐source field operation and manipulation) in this work. It combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with population balance equations (PBE) for both gas bubbles and crystals. Models for gas‐liquid mass transfer and chemical reaction are included as well in the solver. PBE describing bubble coalescence and breakage is solved by the cell average method. Primary nucleation, secondary nucleation, and particle growth are considered in the PBE describing the crystallization process. The solver is validated with the formation of calcium carbonate via the reaction of CO2 with Ca(OH)2 solution in an airlift reactor. Effects of the chemical enhancement factor and crystallization kinetics on predictions are systematically investigated. Variation of predicted pH value, concentration of Ca2+, mean particle size, and crystal size distribution (CSD) with time is in qualitative and semi‐quantitative agreement with the published experimental data, when the appropriate crystallization kinetics are used. Effects of operation parameters such as initial concentration and superficial gas velocity are further numerically examined. The increase in superficial gas velocity results in the increasing consumption rates of OH‐ and Ca2+, while the particle diameter seems unchanged in the present simulation. A higher initial concentration of reactants will lead to a smaller particle diameter and a narrower CSD. The predicted results indicate that the developed solver is feasible, and can be used for the design and scale‐up of airlift loop crystallizers.
Microwave Synthesized In2S3@CNTs with Excellent Properties inLithium‐Ion Battery and Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Wang Cong , Mu Congpu , Xiang Jianyong , Wang Bochong , Zhang Can , Song Jiefang , Wen Fusheng
Published: November 2017

The three‐dimensional nanoflower‐like β‐In2S3 composited with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has been synthesized by a single mode microwave‐assisted hydrothermal technique. The In2S3 and CNTs nanocomposites (In2S3@CNTs) were investigated as the anode materials of lithium batteries (LIBs) and the electromagnetic wave absorption materials. For LIBs applications, the In2S3@CNTs nanocomposite exhibited excellent cycling stability with a high reversible charge capacity of 575 mA⋅h⋅g–1 after 300 cycles at 0.5 A⋅g–1. In addition, the In2S3@CNTs used as electromagnetic wave absorber displayed a maximum reflection loss of –42.75 dB at 11.96 GHz with a thickness of 1.55 mm.
Design, Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and SARs of Novel N‐Substituted Sulfoximines as Potential Ryanodine Receptor Modulators
Authors: Xie Yongtao , Zhou Sha , Li Yuxin , Zhou Shaa , Chen Minggui , Wang Baolei , Xiong Lixia , Yang Na , Li Zhengming
Published: November 2017

The sulfoximine group has been evaluated as a pharmacophore. Introducing the sulfoximine structure into medicinal compounds as exciting motifs has brought opportunities in drug discovery. In order to develop new ryanodine receptor (RyR) modulators, a series of phthalamides containing sulfoximine derivatives were designed, synthesized, and evaluated against oriental armyworm and diamondback moth for their insecticidal activities. These studies helped to elucidate the electronic and structural requirements around the sulfoximine motif for insecticidal activity. All new structures were synthesized and characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HRMS and bioassay and a preliminary structure − activity relationship (SAR) was discussed. The biological assessment indicated that most title compounds showed good to excellent larvicidal activities. Compounds Ia, Ie, and If gave excellent insecticidal activity against oriental armyworm, which showed 100% larvicidal activity at 0.5 mg/L. All compounds showed 100% larvicidal activity at 0.1 mg/L against diamondback moth. In particular, the larvicidal activities of Ie, If, and Ih at 0.0001 mg/L were 50%, 20%, and 40%, respectively, reaching an activity as high as that of the commercial flubendiamide (40%, 0.0001 mg/L). Therefore, Ia, Ie, If and Ih could be considered as new lead structures for the development of new ryanodine receptor (RyR) modulators.
Efficient P‐Chiral Biaryl Bisphosphorus Ligands for Palladium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation
Authors: Jiang Wenhao , Zhao Qing , Tang Wenjun
Published: November 2017

A series of structurally novel P‐chiral biaryl bisphosphorus ligands L1‐L5 (BABIBOPs) are developed, providing high efficiency for the first time in palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of β‐aryl and β‐alkyl substituted β‐keto esters. With the Pd‐L3 (iPr‐BABIBOP) catalyst, a series of chiral β‐hydroxyl carboxylic esters are formed in excellent enantioselectivities (up to>99% ee) and yields at catalyst loading as low as 0.01 mol%.
Predictors of an abnormal postexercise ankle brachial index: Importance of the lowest ankle pressure in calculating the resting ankle brachial index
Authors: Armstrong David W.J. , Tobin Colleen , Matangi Murray F.
Published: November 2017

Background

The postexercise ankle‐brachial index (ABI) is useful in patients with suspected peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and a normal resting ABI. Our objective was to determine the independent predictors of an abnormal postexercise ABI.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that the lowest ankle systolic pressure to calculate the resting ABI would be associated with an abnormal post‐exercise ABI.

Methods

Among 619 consecutive patients referred for suspected PAD, we calculated the postexercise ABI in patients with a normal resting ABI. An ABI <0.90 at rest was considered abnormal. We investigated 3 definitions of an abnormal postexercise ABI, defined as either <0.90, or >5% or >20% reduction compared with rest.

Results

Using multivariate analysis, the lowest ABI (calculated using the lowest and not the highest ankle systolic pressure) was consistently the most powerful independent predictor of an abnormal postexercise ABI. Patients with an abnormal lowest resting ABI were significantly more likely to have an abnormal postexercise ABI, as well as a significantly greater reduction in the ABI compared with rest. The lowest ABI had a high specificity (95%) but low sensitivity (82%) for a postexercise ABI <0.90.

Conclusions

An abnormal lowest ABI (calculated with the lowest ankle systolic pressure) is the most important independent predictor of an abnormal ABI response to exercise in patients with a conventionally normal ABI. All such patients should be exercised and their ABI measured postexercise.
Exercise protects myelinated fibers of white matter in a rat model of depression
Authors: Xiao Qian , Wang Feifei , Luo Yanmin , Chen Linmu , Chao Fenglei , Tan Chuanxue , Gao Yuan , Huang Chunxia , Zhang Lei , Liang Xin , Tang Jing , Qi Yingqing , Jiang Lin , Zhang Yi , Zhou Chunni , Tang Yong
Published: November 2017

The antidepressive effects of exercise have been a focus of research and are hypothesized to remodel the brain networks constructed by myelinated fibers. However, whether the antidepressant effects of exercise are dependent on changes in white matter myelination are unknown. Therefore, we chose chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) as a model of depression and designed an experiment. After a 4‐week CUS period, 40 animals were tested using the sucrose preference test (SPT) and the open field test (OFT). The depressed rats then underwent 4‐week running exercise. Next, electron microscopy and unbiased stereological methods were used to investigate white matter changes in the rats. After the 4‐week CUS stimulation, body weight, sucrose preference and scores on the OFT were significantly lower in the depression rats than in the unstressed rats (p < .05). After undergoing a 4‐week running exercise, the depression rats showed a significantly greater sucrose preference than the depression control rats without running exercise (p < .05). Furthermore, the white matter parameters of the depression rats (including the white matter volumes, the length and volumes of myelinated fibers, and the volumes and thickness of the myelin sheaths) were significantly reduced after the CUS period (p < .05). However, these white matter parameters were significantly increased after running exercise (p < .05). The present study is the first to provide evidence that running exercise has positive effects on white matter and the myelinated fibers of white matter in depressed rats, and this evidence might provide an important theoretical basis for the exercise‐mediated treatment of depression.
Towards a smart selection of resources in the cloud for low‐energy multimedia processing
Authors: Mahmoudi Sidi Ahmed , Belarbi Mohammed Amin , Mahmoudi Saïd , Belalem Ghalem
Published: November 2017

Nowadays, image and video processing applications have become widely used in many domains related to computer vision. Indeed, they can come from cameras, smartphones, social networks, or from medical devices. Generally, these images and videos are used for illustrating people or objects (cars, trains, planes, etc) in many situations such as airports, train stations, public areas, sport events, and hospitals. Thus, image and video processing algorithms have got increasing importance, they are required from various computer vision applications such as motion tracking, real time event detection, database (images and videos) indexation, and medical computer‐aided diagnosis methods. The main inconvenient of image and video processing applications is the high intensity of computation and the complex configuration and installation of the related materials and libraries. In this paper, we propose a new framework that allows users to select in a smart and efficient way the computing units (CPU or/and GPU) in a cloud‐based platform, in case of processing one image (or one video in real time) or many images (or videos). This framework enables to affect the local or remote computing units for calculation after analyzing the type of media and the algorithm complexity. The framework disposes of a set of selected CPU and GPU‐based computer vision methods, such as image denoising, histogram computation, features descriptors (SIFT, SURF), points of interest extraction, edges detection, silhouette extraction, and sparse and dense optical flow estimation. These primitive functions are exploited in various applications such as medical image segmentation, videos indexation, real time motion analysis, and left ventricle segmentation and tracking from 2D echocardiography. Experimental results showed a global speedup ranging from 5× to 273×(compared to CPU versions) as result of the application of our framework for the above‐mentioned methods. In addition to these performances, the parallel and heterogeneous implementations offered lower power consumption as result of the fast treatment.
GPU‐accelerated backtracking using CUDA Dynamic Parallelism
Authors: Carneiro Pessoa Tiago , Gmys Jan , de Carvalho Júnior Francisco Heron , Melab Nouredine , Tuyttens Daniel
Published: November 2017

New GPGPU technologies, such as CUDA Dynamic Parallelism (CDP), can help dealing with recursive patterns of computation, such as divide‐and‐conquer, used by backtracking algorithms. In this paper, we propose a GPU‐accelerated backtracking algorithm using CDP that extends a well‐known parallel backtracking model. The search starts on CPU, processing the search tree until a first cutoff depth. Based on this partial backtracking tree, the algorithm analyzes the memory requirements of subsequent kernel generations. The proposed algorithm performs no dynamic allocation of memory on GPU, unlike related works from the literature. The proposed algorithm has been extensively tested using the N‐Queens Puzzle problem and instances of the Asymmetric Traveling Salesman Problem (ATSP) as test‐cases. The proposed CDP algorithm may, under some conditions, outperform its non‐CDP counterpart by a factor up to 25. But, it may also be up to twice slower. The CDP‐based implementation has much better worst case execution times and makes algorithm's performance less dependent on the tuning of parameters. Compared to other CDP‐based strategies from the literature, the proposed algorithm is on average 8× faster. The proposed algorithm is also hybridized with another CDP‐based strategy from the literature. The combination of strategies is in average 4.5× faster than the related strategy. We also identify some difficulties, limitations, and bottlenecks concerning the CDP programming model which may be useful for helping potential users.
Cascade Production of Lactic Acid from Universal Types of Sugars Catalyzed by Lanthanum Triflate
Authors: Liu Dajiang , Kim Kwang Ho , Sun Jian , Simmons Blake A. , Singh Seema
Published: November 2017

Lignocellulosic biomass conversion into value‐added platform chemicals in the non‐toxic, water‐tolerant Lewis acid, and water solutions bears the hallmark of green chemistry. Lactic acid derived from biomass is an important chemical building block for biodegradable polymers such as polylactide. Herein, a universal method of converting lignocellulosic sugars into lactic acid using catalytic amount of water‐stable Lewis acid La(OTf)3 is demonstrated. The lignocellulosic sugars studied in this work include 1) pyrolytic sugars from pyrolysis oil, and 2) sugars derived from ionic liquid (IL)‐pretreated biomass. Under moderate conditions (250 °C, 1 h), levoglucosan (major pyrolytic sugar), glucose, and xylose were converted into lactic acid with carbon‐based molar yields of 75, 74, and 61 %, respectively. Furthermore, roughly 49 mol % (based on levoglucosan) and 74 wt % (relative to pretreated biomass) of lactic acid were obtained from the conversion of pyrolytic sugars and sugar‐rich fraction after lignin removal from switchgrass, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first reported conversion of pyrolytic sugar into lactic acid by chemocatalysis and also lignocellulosic sugars are converted into lactic acid without hydrolysis. This approach could potentially be extended to other lignocellulosic sugars after simple removal of lignin from biomass pretreatment, rendering moderate to high yields of lactic acid.
A real‐world, observational study of weekly exenatide added to basal insulin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (NCT02895672)
Authors: Stryker Matthew D. , Kane Michael P. , Busch Robert S.
Published: November 2017

Aim

This is a pre‐post observational study from an endocrinology ambulatory care practice which assessed the effectiveness and safety following the addition of a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) agonist, weekly exenatide (Bydureon), to basal insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Liraglutide plus basal insulin served as a comparison group.

Materials and methods

A data collection form was utilized to collect study‐related information. The primary study outcome was change in HbA1c from baseline to 12 months after GLP‐1 receptor agonist therapy was added to basal insulin therapy. Secondary outcomes were change in weight, percentage of patients achieving an HbA1c of <7% (53 mmol/mol) or ≤6.5% (48 mmol/mol) and changes in blood pressure and lipid parameters. Safety was assessed by a collection of reported adverse events.

Results

One‐hundred and fifty patients met inclusion criteria (seventy‐five per treatment arm). After 1 year of therapy, HbA1c decreased by 0.7% in the entire cohort (once‐weekly exenatide: −0.7%; once‐daily liraglutide: −0.8%; no significant between‐group difference). More subjects in the weekly exenatide arm achieved an HbA1c < 7% (53 mmol/mol) (P = .03), but a comparable number achieved an HbA1c ≤ 6.5% (48 mmol/mol). Although significantly more patients achieved an HbA1c < 7% (53 mmol/mol) in the once‐weekly exenatide arm, the baseline HbA1c was lower (7.9%) than the liraglutide arm (8.4%). No significant differences were observed between groups for other secondary outcomes. A similar number of subjects discontinued therapy, mainly due to gastrointestinal‐ill effects, and hypoglycaemia incidence did not increase compared with the previous year.

Conclusion

The addition of once‐weekly exenatide to basal insulin was associated with appreciable reductions in HbA1c and weight without an increase in hypoglycaemia.
A Flexible Lead‐Free BaTiO3/PDMS/C Composite Nanogenerator as a Piezoelectric Energy Harvester
Authors: Luo Cuixian , Hu Sihuan , Xia Mengjie , Li Pengwei , Hu Jie , Li Gang , Jiang Huabei , Zhang Wendong
Published: November 2017

A novel approach to develop high‐performance flexible piezoelectric nanogenerators (PNGs) by using a lead‐free BaTiO3/polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS)/C composite thin film is proposed. The lead‐free BaTiO3 nanoparticles (NPs) are successfully fabricated using a facile modified (nano‐scale precursors) solid‐phase method. The synthesized BaTiO3/PDMS/C composite PNG exhibits an output voltage of approximately 7.43 V with periodically beating from a vibrator, which is increased by 143 % compared to the PNGs without C doping. The maximum power is shown to reach up to approximately 7.92 μW with a load resistance of 2 MΩ when the C content of PNGs is 3.2 wt %.The generated electric energy can be effectively stored by the energy storage capacitor (47 μF) and is successfully used to light a commercial red light‐emitting diode (LED). These results show that the BaTiO3/PDMS/C composite is a promising candidate for large‐scale lead‐free piezoelectric nanogenerator applications.
Valorization of polycarbonate board as packing material for open CaCl2‐water desiccant system
Authors: Kavasoğullari Barış , Cihan Ertuğrul , Demir Hasan
Published: November 2017

Environmentally friendly and thermal driven open liquid desiccant system was designed and manufactured in this study. The scope of this study was to investigate the potential usage of poly carbonate boards as new packing material in an open CaCl2‐water desiccant system which has relatively high surface tension among other conventional polymeric materials. The effects of surface area of packing materials, channel angle, air, and desiccant flowrates on the performance of the system were also investigated. The acute channel angle (30°) increased duration of air in the column and influenced the mass transfer between air and liquid and the performance criteria of the system. The highest absorber efficiency (67%) was observed with 680 m3 h−1 air and 1.85 kg s−1 desiccant flow rates for 6 mm thickness and 30° channel angle packing material. The maximum electrical COP was found as 1.80 at 1000 m3 h−1 air and 1.85 kg s−1 desiccant flow rates for 30° channel angle and 6 mm thickness packing material. The performance of the studied open liquid desiccant system can be improved with some revisions such as using different poly carbonate boards providing more surface area. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1727–1735, 2018
Efficient Design and simulation of solar power system with MPPT‐based soft switching SEPIC converter at different load levels
Authors: Necaibia Salah , Kelaiaia Mounia Samira , Labar Hocine , Necaibia Ammar
Published: November 2017

This article proposes a novel method to improve the efficiency of Perturb and Observe (P&O) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm. As the PV module has low conversion efficiency, the output power of PV module depends on both operation environments and load change. The proposed method can improve the tracking velocity and reduce the steady‐state oscillation of the conventional P&O method even under sudden load change. The adaptive duty cycle is proposed and executed in the microcontroller (PIC16F877A). The two MPPT techniques, conventional P&O method and variable step‐size method, are simulated in the ISIS PROTUES environment. The simulation results show the high tracking accuracy and fast speed convergence of the proposed method. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1792–1799, 2018
Unitized Regenerative Fuel Cells: A Review on Developed Catalyst Systems and Bipolar Plates
Authors: Dutta K. , Rana D. , Han H. S. , Kundu P. P.
Published: November 2017

Severe crisis of energy that our planet is going to face in the near future demands rapid development of alternative energy harnessing and storing devices. Various alternative energy devices have been developed so far, including solar cells, batteries and fuel cells, in order to compete and replace the traditionally used fossil fuel based energy technologies. A very recent addition to the list of such devices is the unitized regenerative fuel cell (URFC), which can function as a dual, i.e., electrolyzer‐cum‐fuel cell, device. In remote areas, where utilization of conventionally used energy sources results in high expense, URFC can serve as the best energy option, due to its relatively low cost, high efficiency and light weight. URFC utilizes bifunctional electrodes, which function in a dual mode of water electrolysis and fuel cell. The prime focus of URFC research has been to develop various low cost and highly efficient catalysts and catalyst supports towards the fabrication of alternative bifunctional electrodes and to fabricate strong and efficient bipolar plates. The aim of this review is to highlight the main outcomes of these aspects of research on URFCs.
Evaluating ancient coastal wells as sea‐level indicators from the coast of Israel
Authors: Vunsh Reuven , Tal Oren , Yechieli Yoseph , Dean Silas , Levanon Elad , Sivan Dorit
Published: November 2017

This paper re‐evaluates previous records and adds new data to the relative sea level (RSL; namely the sea level related to the level of the national terrestrial datum) reconstruction in Israel from the last 2400 years based on ancient coastal water wells. Different methods for obtaining the most accurate modern offset between coastal groundwater level and mean sea level are also tested, since this is a crucial component for using wells as reliable sea‐level indicators in the Mediterranean and beyond. Very few, if any, sea‐level studies outside of Israel use coastal wells as RSL indicators; refinements to the methods associated with this indicator type will facilitate their use in other regions. Coastal wells in the study are located within 200 m of the present‐day coastline. The functional age range for the wells is based on site stratigraphy, artifacts, historical records, and the coastal water well typology. These archaeological indicators rely on finding the vertical offset between present‐day coastal groundwater and sea level, and applying it to ancient times. The current study explores two methods to calculate accurate vertical offsets: a) modern averages of the upper aquifer groundwater elevation in the vicinity of ancient wells, which are calculated from 60 years of measurements by the Israeli Hydrological Service; and b) a hydrological model where groundwater elevation is a function of distance from the modern coastline. The model uses a simulation of the coastal aquifer with a two‐dimensional, vertical cross‐section. The modeled approach is found to be preferable. The results show that sea level in Roman times (1st century CE) was similar to present‐day, slightly higher in the Byzantine period (4th to 7th centuries CE), and lower in part of the Early Islamic period (9th to 10th centuries CE). For the later Fatimid/Ayyubid and Crusader periods (11th to 13th centuries CE), RSL reaches its lowest elevations (of about −0.5 m) as previously found. Following these low levels, sea level rose going into the 18th and 19th centuries CE.
Gene‐based genetic association test with adaptive optimal weights
Authors: Chen Zhongxue , Lu Yan , Lin Tong , Liu Qingzhong , Wang Kai
Published: November 2017

It is well known that using proper weights for genetic variants is crucial in enhancing the power of gene‐ or pathway‐based association tests. To increase the power, we propose a general approach that adaptively selects weights among a class of weight families and apply it to the popular sequencing kernel association test. Through comprehensive simulation studies, we demonstrate that the proposed method can substantially increase power under some conditions. Applications to real data are also presented. This general approach can be extended to all current set‐based rare variant association tests whose performances depend on variant's weight assignment.
Effect of body mass index on the incidence of perineal trauma
Authors: Durnea Constantin M. , Jaffery Ali E. , Gauthaman Nivedita , Doumouchtsis Stergios K.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To investigate the association between perineal trauma at childbirth and maternal body mass index (BMI), and estimate the risk of perineal trauma among different BMI groups.

Methods

Data were retrospectively assessed from all vaginal deliveries in a UK tertiary maternity unit between 1999 and 2014. Associations between BMI at booking and first‐ and second‐degree tears (minor perineal trauma), third‐ and fourth‐degree tears (obstetric anal sphincter injuries [OASIS]), and frequency of instrumental deliveries were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression included the factors BMI (weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters), age, ethnicity, smoking, parity, pregnancy length, episiotomies, instrumental delivery, and birth weight.

Results

Data from 45 557 deliveries were used. Compared with women with a normal BMI (<25), odds of minor perineal trauma were significantly reduced among women with obesity (BMI 30 to <35; odds ratio [OR] 0.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84–0.99) or severe obesity (BMI ≥35; OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77–0.98). OASIS was not significantly associated with BMI. Instrumental delivery rates were higher among women with normal BMI (5936/27 107; 22.0%) than among those with severe obesity (284/2032; 14.0%).

Conclusion

Increased BMI at booking was associated with a reduced incidence of minor perineal trauma at delivery, but was not associated with OASIS.
Characterizing the free volume of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene to predict diffusion coefficients in orthopedic liners
Authors: Ludwig Kyle B. , Chandrasekar Vaishnavi , Saylor David M. , Van Citters Douglas W. , Reinitz Steven D. , Forrey Christopher , McDermott Martin K. , Wickramasekara Samanthi , Janes Dustin W.
Published: November 2017

Liners used in orthopedic devices are often made from ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). A general predictive capability for transport coefficients of small molecules in UHMWPE does not exist, making it difficult to assess properties associated with leaching or uptake of small molecules. To address this gap, we describe here how a form of the Vrentas–Duda free volume model can be used to predict upper‐bound diffusion coefficients (D) of arbitrary molecules within UHMWPE on the basis of their size and shape. Within this framework, the free‐volume microstructure of UHMWPE is defined by analysis of a curated set of model diffusants. We determined an upper limit on
for vitamin E, a common antioxidant added to UHMWPE, to be 7.1 × 10−12 cm2 s−1. This means that a liner that contains 0.1 wt % or less Vitamin E and has <120 cm2 patient contacting surface area would elute <100 µg/day of vitamin E. Additionally, the model predicts that squalene and cholesterol—two pro‐oxidizing biological compounds—do not penetrate over 820 µm into UHMWPE liners over the course of 5 years because their
is ≤7.1 × 10−12 cm2 s−1. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2393–2402, 2018.
Relationship Between Neonatal Vitamin D at Birth and Risk of Autism Spectrum Disorders: the NBSIB Study
Authors: Wu Dong-Mei , Wen Xin , Han Xin-Rui , Wang Shan , Wang Yong-Jian , Shen Min , Fan Shao-Hua , Zhuang Juan , Li Meng-Qiu , Hu Bin , Sun Chun-Hui , Bao Ya-Xing , Yan Jing , Lu Jun , Zheng Yuan-Lin
Published: November 2017

Previous studies suggested that lower vitamin D might be a risk factor for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of ASDs in 3-year-old Chinese children and to examine the association between neonatal vitamin D status and risk of ASDs. We conducted a study of live births who had taken part in expanded newborn screening (NBS), with outpatient follow-up when the children 3-year old. The children were confirmed for ASDs in outpatient by the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-5 criteria. Intellectual disability (ID) status was defined by the intelligence quotient (IQ < 80) for all the participants. The study design included a 1:4 case to control design. The concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] in children with ASD and controls were assessed from neonatal dried blood samples. A total of 310 children were diagnosed as having ASDs; thus, the prevalence was 1.11% (95% CI, 0.99% to 1.23%). The concentration of 25(OH)D3 in 310 ASD and 1240 controls were assessed. The median 25(OH)D3 level was significantly lower in children with ASD as compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Compared with the fourth quartiles, the relative risk (RR) of ASDs was significantly increased for neonates in each of the three lower quartiles of the distribution of 25(OH)D3, and increased risk of ASDs by 260% (RR for lowest quartile: 3.6; 95% CI, 1.8 to 7.2; p < 0.001), 150% (RR for second quartile: 2.5; 95% CI, 1.4 to 3.5; p = 0.024), and 90% (RR for third quartile: 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1 to 3.3; p = 0.08), respectively. Furthermore, the nonlinear nature of the ID-risk relationship was more prominent when the data were assessed in deciles. This model predicted the lowest relative risk of ID in the 72rd percentile (corresponding to 48.1 nmol/L of 25(OH)D3). Neonatal vitamin D status was significantly associated with the risk of ASDs and intellectual disability. The nature of those relationships was nonlinear. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.