bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thaumarchaeal ecotype distributions across the equatorial Pacific Ocean and their potential roles in nitrification and sinking flux attenuation
Authors: Santoro Alyson E. , Saito Mak A. , Goepfert Tyler J. , Lamborg Carl H. , Dupont Chris L. , DiTullio Giacomo R.
Published: April 2017

Thaumarchaea are among the most abundant microbial groups in the ocean, but controls on their abundance and the distribution and metabolic potential of different subpopulations are poorly constrained. Here, two ecotypes of ammonia‐oxidizing thaumarchaea were quantified using ammonia monooxygenase (amoA) genes across the equatorial Pacific Ocean. The shallow, or water column “A” (WCA), ecotype was the most abundant ecotype at the depths of maximum nitrification rates, and its abundance correlated with other biogeochemical indicators of remineralization such as NO3 : Si and total Hg. Metagenomes contained thaumarchaeal genes encoding for the catalytic subunit of the urease enzyme (ureC) at all depths, suggesting that members of both WCA and the deep, water column “B” (WCB) ecotypes may contain ureC. Coupled urea hydrolysis‐ammonia oxidation rates were similar to ammonia oxidation rates alone, suggesting that urea could be an important source of ammonia for mesopelagic ammonia oxidizers. Potential inducement of metal limitation of both ammonia oxidation and urea hydrolysis was demonstrated via additions of a strong metal chelator. The water column inventory of WCA was correlated with the depth‐integrated abundance of WCB, with both likely controlled by the flux of sinking particulate organic matter, providing strong evidence of vertical connectivity between the ecotypes. Further, depth‐integrated amoA gene abundance and nitrification rates were correlated with particulate organic nitrogen flux measured by contemporaneously deployed sediment traps. Together, the results refine our understanding of the controls on thaumarchaeal distributions in the ocean, and provide new insights on the relationship between material flux and microbial communities in the mesopelagic.
Organic enrichment simplifies marine benthic food web structure
Authors: Nordström Marie C. , Bonsdorff Erik
Published: April 2017

Food web structure is a key determinant for community functioning and stability. Still, the architecture of trophic interactions is often ignored in assessments of stressor‐ or disturbance‐induced changes in ecological communities. We established anthropogenic structuring of trophic networks by revisiting the Pearson‐Rosenberg paradigm on changing benthic communities along gradients of organic enrichment. Using monitoring data from two sites with point‐source organic loading, acknowledging associated changes in, e.g., water chemistry, we studied network topology of soft‐sediment macroinvertebrate communities. We found that organic enrichment led to a progressive simplification of food web structure. The simplification manifested both horizontally and vertically in the web, and networks at impacted sites consisted of fewer nodes, fewer links, and had lower linkage density than more pristine communities. Contrary to our expectation, organic enrichment did not change the directed connectance of the networks, nor affect proportions of top‐level species and carnivorous taxa in the assemblages. There were, however, changes in the proportions of basal‐level and intermediate‐level nodes, which together with decreasing mean trophic height further reveal a disintegration of the trophic network. We suggest the Pearson‐Rosenberg model is expanded to include a progressive simplification of benthic food webs. Adding a dimension of interactions (in this case feeding links) to existing biodiversity assessments enhances our understanding of the consequences of environmental degradation.
d‐Fructose‐Decorated Poly(ethylene imine) for Human Breast Cancer Cell Targeting
Authors: Englert Christoph , Pröhl Michael , Czaplewska Justyna A. , Fritzsche Carolin , Preußger Elisabeth , Schubert Ulrich S. , Traeger Anja , Gottschaldt Michael
Published: April 2017

The high affinity of GLUT5 transporter for d‐fructose in breast cancer cells has been discussed intensely. In this contribution, high molar mass linear poly(ethylene imine) (LPEI) is functionalized with d‐fructose moieties to combine the selectivity for the GLUT5 transporter with the delivery potential of PEI for genetic material. The four‐step synthesis of a thiol‐group bearing d‐fructose enables the decoration of a cationic polymer backbone with d‐fructose via thiol‐ene photoaddition. The functionalization of LPEI is confirmed by 2D NMR techniques, elemental analysis, and size exclusion chromatography. Importantly, a d‐fructose decoration of 16% renders the polymers water‐soluble and eliminates the cytotoxicity of PEI in noncancer L929 cells, accompanied by a reduced unspecific cellular uptake of the genetic material. In contrast, the cytotoxicity as well as the cell specific uptake is increased for triple negative MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells. Therefore, the introduction of d‐fructose shows superior potential for cell targeting, which can be assumed to be GLUT5 dependent.

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Innovative Methods and Applications in Mucoadhesion Research
Authors: Mackie Alan R. , Goycoolea Francisco M. , Menchicchi Bianca , Caramella Carla Marcella , Saporito Francesca , Lee Seunghwan , Stephansen Karen , Chronakis Ioannis S. , Hiorth Marianne , Adamczak Malgorzata , Waldner Max , Nielsen Hanne Mørck , Marcelloni Luciano
Published: April 2017

The present review is aimed at elucidating relatively new aspects of mucoadhesion/mucus interaction and related phenomena that emerged from a Mucoadhesion workshop held in Munster on 2–3 September 2015 as a satellite event of the ICCC 13th—EUCHIS 12th. After a brief outline of the new issues, the focus is on mucus description, purification, and mucus/mucin characterization, all steps that are pivotal to the understanding of mucus related phenomena and the choice of the correct mucosal model for in vitro and ex vivo experiments, alternative bio/mucomimetic materials are also presented. Then a selection of preparative techniques and testing methods are described (at molecular as well as micro and macroscale) that may support the pharmaceutical development of mucus interactive systems and assist formulators in the scale‐up and industrialization steps. Recent applications of mucoadhesive systems (including medical devices) intended for different routes of administration (oral, gastrointestinal, vaginal, nasal, ocular, and intravesical) and for the treatment of difficult to treat pathologies or the alleviation of symptoms are described.

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Design of Poly‐l‐Glutamate‐Based Complexes for pDNA Delivery
Authors: Niño‐Pariente Amaya , Armiñán Ana , Reinhard Sören , Scholz Claudia , Wagner Ernst , Vicent María J.
Published: April 2017

Due to the polyanionic nature of DNA, typically cationic or neutral delivery vehicles have been used for gene delivery. As a new approach, this study focuses on the design, development, and validation of nonviral polypeptide‐based carriers for oligonucleotide delivery based on a negatively charged poly‐l‐glutamic acid (PGA) backbone partly derivatized with oligoaminoamide residues. To this end, PGA‐derivatives modified with different pentameric succinyl tetraethylene pentamines (Stp5) are designed. Optionally, histidines for modulation of endosomal buffer capacity and cysteines for pDNA complex stabilization are included, followed by characterization of biophysical properties and gene transfer efficiency in N2a neuroblastoma or 4T1 breast cancer cells.

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Doxorubicin Loaded Chitosan–W18O49 Hybrid Nanoparticles for Combined Photothermal–Chemotherapy
Authors: Yuan Shanmei , Hua Jisong , Zhou Yinyin , Ding Yin , Hu Yong
Published: April 2017

Combined treatment is more effective than single treatment against most forms of cancer. In this work, doxorubicin loaded chitosan–W18O49 nanoparticles combined with the photothermal therapy and chemotherapy are fabricated through the electrostatic interaction between positively charged chitosan and negatively charged W18O49 nanoparticles. The in vitro and in vivo behaviors of these nanoparticles are examined by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, cytotoxicity, near‐infrared fluorescence imaging, and tumor growth inhibition experiment. These nanoparticles have a mean size around 110 nm and show a pH sensitive drug release behavior. After irradiation by the 980 nm laser, these nanoparticles show more pronounced cytotoxicity against HeLa cells than that of free doxorubicin or photothermal therapy alone. The in vivo experiments confirm that their antitumor ability is significantly improved, resulting in superior efficiency in impeding tumor growth and extension of the lifetime of mice.

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Pre‐Oxidized Acrylic Fiber Reinforced Ferric Sulfophenyl Phosphate‐Doped Polybenzimidazole‐Based High‐Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane
Authors: Sun Peng , Li Zhongfang , Jin Lei , Yang Yangong , Wang Suwen , Yin Xiaoyan , Wang Yuxin
Published: April 2017

Pre‐oxidized acrylic fiber (POAF) and ferric sulfophenyl phosphate (FeSPP) are incorporated into polybenzimidazole (PBI) membrane for the first time to prepare high‐temperature proton exchange membranes (PEMs). The strong hydrogen bonds formed between PBI/POAF and FeSPP lead to good dispersion of POAF and FeSPP, facilitate the construction of proton channels, and enhance the dimensional and mechanical stability of the membranes. PBI/FeSPP (30 wt%) shows good proton conductivity (5.43 × 10−2 and 4.13 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 180 °C at 50% and 0 relative humidity (RH), respectively) and improved dimensional and mechanical stability compared with pristine PBI. By incorporating 5 wt% POAF into PBI/FeSPP (30 wt%), the swelling ratios are halved and the mechanical strength is enhanced by almost 30% while the proton conductivity is slightly affected (3.84 × 10−2 and 2.97 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 180 °C at 50% and 0 RH for PBI/FeSPP (30 wt%)/POAF (5 wt%), respectively). This work offers a new route in the preparation of high‐temperature PEMs with enhanced properties.

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A randomized trial of a low‐dose Rasagiline and Pramipexole combination (P2B001) in early Parkinson's disease
Authors: Olanow C. Warren , Kieburtz Karl , Leinonen Mika , Elmer Lawrence , Giladi Nir , Hauser Robert A. , Klepiskaya Olga S. , Kreitzman David L. , Lew Mark F. , Russell David S. , Kadosh Shaul , Litman Pninit , Friedman Hadas , Linvah Nurit , the P2B Study Group for
Published: April 2017

Background

Rasagiline and pramipexole act to improve striatal dopaminergic transmission in PD via distinct and potentially synergistic mechanisms. We performed a placebo‐controlled study to determine whether 2 doses of a novel slow‐release, low‐dose combination of rasagiline and pramipexole (P2B001) are effective and have a good safety profile in patients with early untreated PD.

Methods

Previously untreated patients with early PD were randomized (1:1:1) to once‐daily treatment with P2B001 (0.3 mg pramipexole/0.75 mg rasagiline), P2B001 (0.6 mg pramipexole/0.75 mg rasagiline) or placebo in a 12‐week multicenter double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline to final visit in Total‐UPDRS score versus placebo. Secondary measures included responder analyses of patients achieving ≥4 UPDRS point reduction, and changes in Parkinson Disease Quality of Life Scale–39 and UPDRS activities of daily living and motor scores.

Results

A total of 149 participants were randomized and 136 (91.3%) completed the study. Adjusted mean change from baseline to final visit versus placebo in Total‐UPDRS score was −4.67 ± 1.28 points for the P2B001 0.6/0.75 mg group (P = .0004) and −3.84 ± 1.25 points for the 0.3/0.75 mg group (P = .003). Significant benefits were also observed for both doses in the responder analysis (P = .0002 and P = .0001), Parkinson Disease Quality of Life Scale–39 scores (P = .05 and P = .01), and the UPDRS motor (P = .02 and P = .006) and activities of daily living (P = .005 and P = .0004) subscores. Adverse events of P2B001 were comparable to placebo apart from transient nausea and somnolence, which were more common with P2B001 treatment.

Conclusions

P2B001 offers a promising treatment option for patients with early PD with good clinical efficacy and a low risk of adverse events. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Estimating breast tumor blood flow during neoadjuvant chemotherapy using interleaved high temporal and high spatial resolution MRI
Authors: Georgiou Leonidas , Sharma Nisha , Broadbent David A. , Wilson Daniel J. , Dall Barbara J. , Gangi Anmol , Buckley David L.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To evaluate an interleaved MRI sampling strategy that acquires both high temporal resolution (HTR) dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) data for quantifying breast tumor blood flow (TBF) and high spatial resolution (HSR) DCE data for clinical reporting, following a single standard injection of contrast agent.

Methods

A simulation study was used to evaluate the performance of the interleaved technique under different conditions. In a prospective clinical study, 18 patients with primary breast cancer, who were due to undergo neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT), were examined using interleaved HTR and HSR DCE‐MRI at 1.5 Tesla. Tumor regions of interest were analyzed with a two‐compartment tracer kinetic model. Paired parameters (n = 10) from the data acquired before and post–cycle 2 of NACT were compared using the nonparametric Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

Results

Simulations demonstrated that TBF was reliably estimated using the proposed strategy. The region of interest analysis revealed significant changes in TBF (0.81–0.43 mL/min/mL; P = 0.002) following two cycles of NACT. The HSR data were reported in the normal way and enabled the assessment of tumor volume, which decreased by 53% following NACT (P = 0.065).

Conclusions

TBF can be measured reliably using the proposed strategy without compromising a standard clinical protocol. Furthermore, in our feasibility study, TBF decreased significantly following NACT, whereas capillary permeability surface‐area product did not. Magn Reson Med 79:317–326, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Fetal cardiac cine imaging using highly accelerated dynamic MRI with retrospective motion correction and outlier rejection
Authors: van Amerom Joshua F.P. , Lloyd David F.A. , Price Anthony N. , Kuklisova Murgasova Maria , Aljabar Paul , Malik Shaihan J. , Lohezic Maelene , Rutherford Mary A. , Pushparajah Kuberan , Razavi Reza , Hajnal Joseph V.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Development of a MRI acquisition and reconstruction strategy to depict fetal cardiac anatomy in the presence of maternal and fetal motion.

Methods

The proposed strategy involves i) acquisition and reconstruction of highly accelerated dynamic MRI, followed by image‐based ii) cardiac synchronization, iii) motion correction, iv) outlier rejection, and finally v) cardiac cine reconstruction. Postprocessing entirely was automated, aside from a user‐defined region of interest delineating the fetal heart. The method was evaluated in 30 mid‐ to late gestational age singleton pregnancies scanned without maternal breath‐hold.

Results

The combination of complementary acquisition/reconstruction and correction/rejection steps in the pipeline served to improve the quality of the reconstructed 2D cine images, resulting in increased visibility of small, dynamic anatomical features. Artifact‐free cine images successfully were produced in 36 of 39 acquired data sets; prolonged general fetal movements precluded processing of the remaining three data sets.

Conclusions

The proposed method shows promise as a motion‐tolerant framework to enable further detail in MRI studies of the fetal heart and great vessels. Processing data in image‐space allowed for spatial and temporal operations to be applied to the fetal heart in isolation, separate from extraneous changes elsewhere in the field of view. Magn Reson Med 79:327–338, 2018. © 2017 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Nerve stepping stone has minimal impact in aiding regeneration across long acellular nerve allografts
Authors: Yan Ying , Hunter Daniel A. , Schellhardt Lauren , Ee Xueping , Snyder‐Warwick Alison K. , Moore Amy M. , Mackinnon Susan E. , Wood Matthew D.
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) yield less consistent favorable outcomes compared with autografts for long gap reconstructions. We evaluated whether a hybrid ANA can improve 6‐cm gap reconstruction. Methods: Rat sciatic nerve was transected and repaired with either 6‐cm hybrid or control ANAs. Hybrid ANAs were generated using a 1‐cm cellular isograft between 2.5‐cm ANAs, whereas control ANAs had no isograft. Outcomes were assessed by graft gene and marker expression (n = 4; at 4 weeks) and motor recovery and nerve histology (n = 10; at 20 weeks). Results: Hybrid ANAs modified graft gene and marker expression and promoted modest axon regeneration across the 6‐cm defect compared with control ANA (P < 0.05), but yielded no muscle recovery. Control ANAs had no appreciable axon regeneration across the 6‐cm defect. Discussion: A hybrid ANA confers minimal motor recovery benefits for regeneration across long gaps. Clinically, the authors will continue to reconstruct long nerve gaps with autografts. Muscle Nerve 57: 260–267, 2018
Auf die Tube drücken
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: April 2017

Früher nur in Autoreifen, heute auch im Mund: Seit einiger Zeit sind Zahncremes mit Kohlenstoff als aktiver Substanz auf dem Markt. Was es sonst noch an ungewöhnlichen Stoffen in Zahnpasta gibt und wie nützlich sie sind.
Phosphor, von rot bis Doppelhelix
Authors: Utrap André , Nilges Tom
Published: April 2017

Durch Reaktionen zwischen Festkörper und Gasphase lassen sich Phosphorverbindungen kinetisch kontrolliert herstellen. Deren Strukturen reichen von molekular über Schichten bis zu Spiralen. Daraus resultieren interessante physikalische Eigenschaften: Sie sind Supraleiter oder lassen sich um 180 ° biegen.
Eine Universität im Aufbruch
Authors: Astafyeva Yekaterina , Seitmagzimova Galina , Lang Heinrich
Published: April 2017

Die staatliche Universität im südkasachischen Shymkent sucht Anschluss an internationale Standards und hat deswegen in den letzten Jahren in die Forschungsinfrastruktur investiert, vor allem in Chemie.
Chemiedidakitik: Bubble‐Tea‐Bällchen statt Kolben
Authors: Ducci Matthias
Published: April 2017

Bei Schulversuchen laufen chemische Reaktionen gewöhnlich in Reagenz‐ oder Bechergläsern ab. Doch auch Alginatkugeln sind reizvolle Reaktionsgefäße: Donor‐Akzeptor‐Reaktionen, bei denen sich die Farbe ändert, lassen sich in diesen durchsichtigen Kügelchen besonders gut beobachten.
„Heute kochen wir Bleiarsenid!“
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: April 2017

Als Chemiker hat man oft mit Vorurteilen und Missverständnissen zu kämpfen. Den Menschen zu erklären, was man macht, hilft aber auch nicht unbedingt.
Süß oder bitter – Steviolglycoside bestimmen
Authors: Vosskötter Stefan
Published: April 2017

Im Gegensatz zu den künstlichen Süßungsmitteln Aspartam und Saccharin ist Stevia ein Stoffgemisch pflanzlicher Herkunft. Der Extrakt enthält Steviolglycoside, die 450‐mal süßer sind als Zucker. Allerdings schmecken einige Komponenten bitter.
Jung geworden
Authors: Beil Sebastian
Published: April 2017

Im Jahr 1867 gründete sich die Deutsche Chemische Gesellschaft, die ältere der beiden Vorgängerorganisationen der GDCh. 130 Jahre später entstand das JungChemikerForum der Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker – eine Erfolgsgeschichte mit vielen Facetten.
Why asymptotic limit of the acid dissolution capacity can lead to a sharp dissolution front in chemical dissolution of porous rocks?
Authors: Zhao Chongbin , Hobbs B.E. , Ord A.
Published: April 2017

The use of the asymptotic limit can greatly simplify the theoretical analysis of chemical dissolution front instabilities in fluid‐saturated rocks and therefore make it possible to obtain mathematical solutions, which often play a crucial role in understanding the propagation behavior of chemical dissolution fronts in chemical dissolution systems. However, there has been a debate in recent years that the asymptotic limit of the acid dissolution capacity (i.e., the acid dissolution capacity number approaching zero) alone cannot lead to a sharp dissolution front of the Stefan type in the acidization dissolution system, in which the dissolvable minerals of carbonate rocks are chemically dissolved by the injected acid flow. The acid dissolution capacity number is commonly defined as the ratio of the volume of the carbonate rock dissolved by an acid to that of the acid. In this paper, we use four different proof methods, including (i) direct use of the fundamental concepts; (ii) use of the mathematical governing equations of an acidization dissolution system; (iii) use of the different time scaling approach; and (iv) use of a moving coordinate system approach, to demonstrate that the asymptotic limit of the acid dissolution capacity can indeed lead to sharp dissolution fronts of the Stefan type in acidization dissolution systems on a much larger time scale (than the dissolution time scale). Our new finding is that on the reaction time scale, the condition of the conventional time derivative of porosity approaching zero alone can ensure that the acidization dissolution front has a sharp shape of the Stefan type. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Image‐based model reconstruction and meshing of woven reinforcements in composites
Authors: Madra Anna , Breitkopf Piotr , Rassineux Alain , Trochu François
Published: April 2017

A method based on dual kriging is proposed to process X‐ray microtomographic scans of textile composites in order to construct a 3D representation of the fiber architecture with a regulated level of details. The geometry is optimized by using the curvature energy of fiber tow profiles in order to determine the best discretization scheme; then the nugget effect is applied in kriging to smooth the outward surface of fiber tows. This approach allows creating 3D models of variable resolution ranging from the X‐ray scan level to geometric representations with surface meshes required for numerical simulation. The method is applied to a glass fiber textile laminate embedded in a thermoplastic matrix, and preliminary results for the estimation of the local permeability of the fiber tows are presented. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organizational Identity and Philanthropic Institutions
Authors: Scherer Shelley C.
Published: April 2017

This article proposes a framework for viewing the behavior of philanthropic institutions through the lens of organizational identity via semi‐structured interviews with twenty‐seven grantmakers representing seventeen foundations, along with content analyses of these foundations’ public documents. This empirical investigation revealed three identity profiles: agenda setter, supporter, and community builder, which capture distinct patterns in foundation strategy, operational structure, and grantmaking practices. For theory, these findings provide an alternative to the conventional view of foundation behavior along an active to passive continuum to one that suggests a role for organizational identity. For practitioners (grantmakers and grantseekers), this perspective demonstrates that there are multiple pathways through which foundations create social value, not just one definition of “best practices.” Understanding these different perspectives on social value creation can help grantmakers identify internal inconsistencies in their strategies and operations and can help grantseekers identify foundations most likely to fund their work. The article concludes with suggestions for further research to explore the extent to which this framework can advance understanding of institutional philanthropy as the field moves to challenge traditional boundaries between nonprofit foundations and private social change initiatives.
Machine Vision Market Specifics Across Europe
Authors: Breyer Andreas
Published: April 2017

Machine vision as a cross‐sectional technology has numerous application fields which make the machine vision sector heterogeneous and highly recognized in many different areas. Often our industry is addressed as a whole overlooking the fact that also geographically machine vision technology comes in all kinds of characteristics within the various national European markets.
Thermally activated multiple self‐healing diels‐alder epoxy system
Authors: Dello Iacono S. , Martone A. , Pastore A. , Filippone G. , Acierno D. , Zarrelli M. , Giordano M. , Amendola E.
Published: April 2017

The introduction of thermo‐reversible covalent bonds in the molecular network is a recent approach to prepare self‐healing polymers upon a suitable thermal trigger. Among reversible reactions, Diels–Alder (D‐A) cycloaddition is an ideal candidate for the synthesis of mendable polymers, such as epoxy resins, with improved operative life. The D‐A adduct, referred to as 2Ph2Epo, was synthetized and crosslinked with a mixture of aliphatic and aromatic amines. The resin formulation aimed at reaching a compromise between the mending capability of cured material and its dimensional stability at high temperatures, required during healing cycles. The latter result was achieved by mixing the adduct with commercial DGEBA monomer. The ability of the adduct to give direct D‐A and reverse D‐A (r D‐A) has been verified by FT‐IR and rheological analysis on 2Ph2Epo. Mechanical tests were performed for assessing the self‐healing efficiency of the crosslinked 2Ph2Epo/DGEBA system. The multiple healing feature of the system was proved. The hybrid epoxy resin is able to recover damages, still exhibiting the pristine stiffness, while the strength of the system decreases after progressing healing cycles. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:674–679, 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Changes of 2H and 18O abundances in water treated with non‐thermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet
Authors: Mance Diana , Geilmann Heike , Brand Willi A. , Kewitz Thorben , Kersten Holger
Published: April 2017

We treated water samples with a non‐thermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet and pure gas flow. Stable isotope measurements of water samples were performed by cavity ring‐down spectroscopy. Both plasma and purged gas treated samples resulted enriched in 2H and 18O, contrary to untreated water. The enrichment is dominantly caused by evaporation under non‐equilibrium conditions. The combined effect of ventilation and heating by plasma jet is the most probable reason for higher enrichment with heavier species of plasma treated samples than the ones purged by gas.
External validation of a nomogram for identification of pathologically favorable disease in intermediate risk prostate cancer patients
Authors: Beauval Jean‐Baptiste , Cabarrou Bastien , Gandaglia Giorgio , Patard Pierre‐Marie , Ouzzane Adil , de la Taille Alexandre , Soulié Michel , Briganti Alberto , Ploussard Guillaume , Rozet François , Roumiguié Mathieu
Published: April 2017

OBJECTIVE

To establish an external validation of the new nomogram from Gandaglia et al which provides estimates of the probability of pathological favorable disease in pre‐operatively defined intermediate‐risk PCa.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Overall, 2928 intermediate‐risk PCa patients according to the D'Amico classification undergoing RP and bilateral lymph node dissection in seven academic centres between 2000 and 2011. Pathologically favorable PCa was defined as low‐grade organ‐confined disease. The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was obtained to quantify the overall accuracy (Area Under the Curve, AUC) of the model to predict specimen‐confined (SC) disease. Calibration curve was then constructed to illustrate the relationship between the risk‐estimates obtained by the model and the observed proportion of SC disease. Kaplan‐Meier method was used for PSA recurrence‐free survival (PSA‐RFS) assessment.

RESULTS

Median age was 68 years. 10.6% patients finally presented pathologically favorable disease characteristics at RP. A higher PSAD (OR = 0.01; 95%CI = 0.00‐0.04; P < 0.0001) and percentage of positive cores (OR = 0.97; 95%CI = 0.96‐0.98; P < 0.0001) were associated with a reduced probability of favorable disease at RP in multivariate analysis. ROC curve analysis showed strongest accuracy of the model (AUC = 0.82; 95%CI = 0.79‐0.84). Favorable PCa had a significantly better PSA recurrence‐free survival rates as compared to unfavorable PCa after RP (94.2% vs 74.4% at 4 years, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This external validation of the Gandaglia nomogram shows relevant accuracy with one out of ten patients in this intermediate risk PCa group with pathologically proven organ‐confined disease. This validated risk calculator can help physician to distinguish favorable intermediate risk PCa that can be treated by conservative approach or safer nerve‐sparing surgery.
Insights into the transmembrane helix associations of kit ligand by molecular dynamics simulation and TOXCAT
Authors: Chai Mengya , Liu Bo , Sun Fude , Wei Peng , Chen Peng , Xu Lida , Luo Shi‐Zhong
Published: April 2017

Kit ligand (KITL) plays important roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival via interaction with its receptor Kit. The previous studies demonstrated that KITL formed a noncovalent homodimer through transmembrane (TM) domain; however, the undergoing mechanism of transmembrane association that determines KITL TM dimerization is still not clear. Herein, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation strategy and TOXCAT assay were combined to characterize the dimerization interface and structure of KITL TM in details. KITL TM formed a more energetically favorable noncovalent dimer through a conserved SxxxGxxxG motif in the MD simulation. Furthermore, the TOXCAT results demonstrated that KITL TM self‐associated strongly in the bilayer membrane environment. Mutating any one of the small residues Ser11, Gly15 or Gly19 to Ile disrupted KITL TM dimerization dramatically, which further validated our MD simulation results. In addition, our results showed that Tyr22 could help to stabilize the TM interactions via interacting with the phosphoric group in the bilayer membrane. Pro7 did not induce helix kinks or swivel angles in KITL TM, but it was related with the pitch of the turn around this residue so as to affect the dimer formation. Combining the results of computer modeling and experimental mutagenesis studies on the KITL TM provide new insights for the transmembrane helix association of KITL dimerization. Proteins 2017; 85:1362–1370. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic diversity of Diaphorina citri and its endosymbionts across east and south‐east Asia
Authors: Wang Yanjing , Xu Changbao , Tian Mingyi , Deng Xiaoling , Cen Yijing , He Yurong
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Diaphorina citri is the vector of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’, the most widespread pathogen associated huanglongbing, the most serious disease of citrus. To enhance our understanding of the distribution and origin of the psyllid, we investigated the genetic diversity and population structures of 24 populations in Asia and one from Florida based on the mtCOI gene. Simultaneously, genetic diversity and population structures of the primary endosymbiont (P‐endosymbiont) ‘Candidatus Carsonella ruddii’ and secondary endosymbiont (S‐endosymbiont) ‘Candidatus Profftella armatura’ of D. citri were determined with the housekeeping genes.

RESULT

AMOVA analysis indicated that populations of D. citri and its endosymbionts in east and south‐east Asia were genetically distinct from populations in Pakistan and Florida. Furthermore, P‐endosymbiont populations displayed a strong geographical structure across east and south‐east Asia, while low genetic diversity indicated the absence of genetic structure among the populations of D. citri and its S‐endosymbiont across these regions.

CONCLUSION

The ‘Ca. C. ruddii’ is more diverse and structured than the D. citri and the ‘Ca. P. armatura’ across east and south‐east Asia. Multiple introductions of the psyllid have occurred in China. Management application for controlling the pest is proposed based on the genetic information of D. citri and its endosymbionts. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Fluorescent and luminescent fusion proteins for analyses of amyloid beta peptide aggregation
Authors: Usui Kenji , Mie Masayasu , Andou Takashi , Mihara Hisakazu , Kobatake Eiry
Published: April 2017

The amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide is regarded as a causative agent of Alzheimer's disease. In this study, fluorescent and luminescent fusion proteins were constructed to analyze Aβ aggregation. A system was developed to monitor changes in luminescence that provides information about Aβ aggregation. In the presence of monomeric Aβ, the fusion protein exhibits higher luminescence intensity, and the luminescence intensity is diminished after aggregation of the fusion protein and Aβ. In contrast, the fluorescence is sustained in the presence of Aβ. In the absence of Aβ, the fusion protein self‐aggregates, and its luminescence and fluorescence are quenched, thus decreasing the background fluorescence and enhancing the detection of Aβ inside and outside the cells. The ratio of the luminescence intensity to the fluorescence intensity would allow the aggregation degrees of Aβ to be distinguished. This study would be a promising method for analyzing the aggregation state of a particular amyloid protein/peptide (monomer, oligomer, or fibril), as well as the distribution of the amyloid protein/peptide within and at the cell surface, by using a single fusion protein. Copyright © 2017 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relationship Trajectories, Living Arrangements, and International Migration Among Ghanaians
Authors: Caarls Kim , de Valk Helga A.G.
Published: April 2017

Despite the linked nature of life events, the existing literature mainly analyses union formation, living arrangements, and international migration separately. In this paper we explore how Ghanaian couples' relationship trajectories are related to international migration. Data come from the Migration between Africa and Europe‐Ghana survey (n = 868) and capture unique retrospective life histories of Ghanaians between age 21 and 35 (migrants and non‐migrants), enabling us to analyse relationship histories and their development over time in a context of international migration while taking the socio‐cultural practice of non‐residential unions into account. We applied sequence analyses to describe trajectories and optimal matching to identify clusters of typical trajectories. Using multinomial logit models, we investigated the association between migration and the four identified relationship paths.

Our results show that relationships and living arrangements evolve in a wide variety of ways, underlining the importance of a dynamic approach. The complexity in relationship trajectories is reflected in the four typical clusters that captured this diversity in a more simplified way: (1) co‐residential marriages; (2) singles; (3) mixed trajectories; and (4) non‐residential marriages. Our results further suggest that socialisation and disruption of family behaviours are both occurring among migrants. We also found that non‐residential unions are commonplace among migrants and non‐migrants alike, demonstrating that this living arrangement is not necessarily related to international migration. However, non‐residential relationships are most common among migrants, and migrant women in particular. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coercivity global model and magnetization reversal in fine hexaferrites
Authors: Faloh‐Gandarilla Jael Cristina , Díaz‐Castañón Sergio
Published: April 2017

In this work, the so‐called global model for magnetization reversal is applied to describe the coercive field temperature dependence in fine barium and strontium M‐hexaferrites (75–300 K range). Using magnetic viscosity measurements, the temperature dependence of the activation volume for magnetization reversal was obtained. In this temperature range, the coercive field (as the anisotropy field) increases with increasing temperature. However, it is found experimentally that the activation volume also increases with temperature and then the physical interpretation of the model is partially not clear.
Impacts of the Pacific Meridional Mode on June–August precipitation in the Amazon River Basin
Authors: Zhang Wei , Villarini Gabriele , Vecchi Gabriel A.
Published: April 2017

This study examines the impacts of the Pacific Meridional Mode (PMM) on Amazon precipitation during June–August using observations and several experiments with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (NOAA/GFDL) Forecast‐oriented Low Ocean Resolution version of CM2.5 (FLOR). We find that the positive (negative) PMM can lead to precipitation surplus (deficit) using both observations and climate simulations with FLOR. The impacts of PMM on Amazon precipitation during June–August are induced by the forcing of sea‐surface temperature (SST) anomalies associated with PMM. Positive PMM can force the baroclinic Gill responses to the heat source in the Pacific with two low‐level cyclones (anticyclones) located west (east) of the heating source. The anomalous low‐level anticyclone and high‐level cyclone located in the Amazon region are associated with low‐level moisture transport from the Atlantic. There is significant positive correlation between the PMM index and moisture flux convergence in most parts of the Amazon basin, with negative correlation in its northwestern part. Such physical mechanisms underlying the linkage between PMM and the Amazon precipitation are supported by both the 500 years control experiment and a suite of perturbation experiments with FLOR.
A single port surgical robot system with novel elbow joint mechanism for high force transmission
Authors: Hwang Minho , Yang Un‐Je , Kong Deokyoo , Chung Deok Gyoon , Lim June‐gi , Lee Dong‐Ho , Kim Daniel H. , Shin Dongsuk , Jang Taeho , Kim Jeong‐Whun , Kwon Dong‐Soo
Published: April 2017

Background

Despite its evident clinical benefits, single‐incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) imposes inherent limitations of collision between external arms and inadequate triangulation because multiple instruments are inserted through a single port at the same time.

Methods

A robot platform appropriate for SILS was developed wherein an elbowed instrument can be equipped to easily create surgical triangulation without the interference of robot arms. A novel joint mechanism for a surgical instrument actuated by a rigid link was designed for high torque transmission capability.

Results

The feasibility and effectiveness of the robot was checked through three kinds of preliminary tests: payload, block transfer, and ex vivo test. Measurements showed that the proposed robot has a payload capability >15 N with 7 mm diameter.

Conclusions

The proposed robot is effective and appropriate for SILS, overcoming inadequate triangulation and improving workspace and traction force capability.
Is human chorionic gonadotropin supplementation beneficial for frozen and thawed embryo transfer in estrogen/progesterone replacement cycles?: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Shiotani Masahide , Matsumoto Yukiko , Okamoto Eri , Yamada Satoshi , Mizusawa Yuri , Furuhashi Kohyu , Ogata Hiromi , Ogata Seiji , Kokeguchi Shoji
Published: April 2017

Aim

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is used frequently for luteal support in fresh in vitro fertilization cycles as it induces progesterone secretion from the ovaries after oocyte retrieval and modulates the endometrium for implantation in fresh cycles. In contrast, hCG is not usually used for the transfer of cryopreserved‐thawed embryos in estrogen/progesterone replacement cycles because ovulation is suppressed. However, several studies have shown that luteinizing hormone and hCG receptors are present in the human endometrium and that hCG can directly induce the decidualization of endometrial stromal cells in vitro. Thus, this study evaluated whether hCG supplementation can be beneficial for cryopreserved‐thawed embryo transfer in estrogen/progesterone replacement cycles.

Methods

One‐hundred‐and seventy‐three cryopreserved‐thawed embryo transfer cycles with estrogen/progesterone replacement were divided randomly into two groups. Transdermal oestradiol was used in combination with vaginal progesterone suppositories for HR. The embryo transfer was performed on day 17 and/or day 20 of the HR therapy cycle in both groups. In Group A, 3000 IU of hCG was administered on days 17, 20, and 23. In Group B, hCG was not used.

Results

There was no significant difference in the average age of the patients, the average number of previous assisted reproductive technology cycles, or the average number of embryo transfers between the two groups. The rates of pregnancy and implantation per embryo were 37.2% and 25.3%, respectively, in Group A and 35.6% and 21.7%, respectively, in Group B. The pregnancy and implantation rates were similar in both groups.

Conclusion

Supplementation with hCG is not beneficial for cryopreserved‐thawed embryo transfer in estrogen/progesterone replacement cycles.
Genetic risk of Klinefelter's syndrome in assisted reproductive technology
Authors: Miki Tamito , Nagayoshi Motoi , Takemoto Yoichi , Yamaguchi Takashi , Takeda Satoru , Watanabe Seiji , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: April 2017

Aim

The main cause of Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) has been believed to be XY sperm. Accordingly, in the intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment of patients with KS, hereditary KS has been a concern. Therefore, this study attempted to estimate the risk before and after the assisted reproductive technology.

Methods

First, in order to validate the safety of the gametes of the patients with KS, a fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis, following an original cell identification method using 1052 testicular gametes of 30 patients, was conducted. Second, in the resultant 45 babies, cytogenetic and physical–cognitive screening data were analyzed. In addition, a first attempt was conducted to investigate the origin of the extra X chromosome in 11 patients with KS by using 12 X‐chromosome short tandem repeat (STR) analysis in order to estimate the paternal contribution to KS.

Results

No sex chromosomally abnormal gamete was found in the FISH analysis and the babies were normal genetically, physically, and cognitively. In the STR, it was confirmed that most (7/11) of the patients with KS resulted from the fertilization of the XX oocytes, suggesting that a baby with KS that had been reported previously might not have resulted from XY sperm.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the risk of assisted reproductive technology for patients with KS is not as high as previously expected.
UAV hyperspectral and lidar data and their fusion for arid and semi‐arid land vegetation monitoring
Authors: Sankey Temuulen T. , McVay Jason , Swetnam Tyson L. , McClaran Mitchel P. , Heilman Philip , Nichols Mary
Published: April 2017

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) provide a new research tool to obtain high spatial and temporal resolution imagery at a reduced cost. Rapid advances in miniature sensor technology are leading to greater potentials for ecological research. We demonstrate one of the first applications of UAV lidar and hyperspectral imagery and a fusion method for individual plant species identification and 3D characterization at submeter scales in south‐eastern Arizona, USA. The UAV lidar scanner characterized the individual vegetation canopy structure and bare ground elevation, whereas the hyperspectral sensor provided species‐specific spectral signatures for the dominant and target species at our study area in leaf‐on condition. We hypothesized that the fusion of the two different data sources would perform better than either data type alone in the arid and semi‐arid ecosystems with sparse vegetation. The fusion approach provides 84–89% overall accuracy (kappa values of 0.80–0.86) in target species classification at the canopy scale, leveraging a wide range of target spectral responses in the hyperspectral data and a high point density (50 points/m2) in the lidar data. In comparison, the hyperspectral image classification alone produced 72–76% overall accuracies (kappa values of 0.70 and 0.71). The UAV lidar‐derived digital elevation model (DEM) is also strongly correlated with manned airborne lidar‐derived DEM (R2 = 0.98 and 0.96), but was obtained at a lower cost. The lidar and hyperspectral data as well as the fusion method demonstrated here can be widely applied across a gradient of vegetation and topography to monitor and detect ecological changes at a local scale.
Do Factors Associated With the Increases in Higher Education Costs Affect Average Net Price at Four‐Year Public Institutions?
Authors: Gioiosa Marie Elaine
Published: April 2017

Students and their families evaluate net price when determining whether they can afford a college. But what affects net price? There are factors, such as instructional inefficiencies, administrative expenses, federal financial aid, and state appropriations, that have been noted in the literature that have an impact on costs and tuition. This study looks at the relationship between average net price and those factors. The findings of this study note that there is a relationship between average net price and said factors.
Crystallisation of aspirin via simulated pulmonary surfactant monolayers and lung‐specific additives
Authors: Davies Michael J. , Taylor Zoe , Leach Andrew G. , Ren James , Gibbons Paul
Published: April 2017

Pain is a prevalent condition that can have a serious impact upon the socioeconomic function of a population. Numerous methods exist to administer analgesic medication (e.g. aspirin) to the body however inherent drawbacks limit patient acceptability. The inhaled route offers promise to facilitate the administration of medication to the body. Here, we consider the crystallisation behaviour of aspirin, our model therapeutic agent, when in contact with material of relevance to the lung. Thus, our approach aims to better understand the interaction between drug substances and the respiratory tract. Langmuir monolayers composed of a mixed surfactant system were supported on an aqueous subphase containing aspirin (7.5 mg/ml). The surfactant film was compressed to either 5mN/m (i.e. inhalation end point) or 50 mN/m (i.e. exhalation end point), whilst located within a humid environment for 16 h. Standard cooling crystallisation procedures were employed to produce control samples. Antisolvent crystallisation in the presence or absence of lung‐specific additives was conducted. All samples were analysed via scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. Drug‐surfactant interactions were confirmed via condensed Langmuir isotherms. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed plate‐like morphology. The crystallisation route dictated both the crystal habit and particle size distribution. Dominant reflections were the (100) and (200) aspects. The main modes of interaction were hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic associations, and van der Waals forces. Here, we have demonstrated the potential of antisolvent crystallisation with lung‐specific additives to achieve control over drug crystal morphology. The approach taken can be applied in respirable formulation engineering. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.