bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Androgen Receptor in Neurons Slows Age-Related Cortical Thinning in Male Mice
Authors: Jardí Ferran , Kim Nari , Laurent Michaël R , Khalil Rougin , Deboel Ludo , Schollaert Dieter , van Lenthe GH , Decallonne Brigitte , Carmeliet Geert , Claessens Frank , Vanderschueren Dirk
Published: November 2018

Androgens via the androgen receptor (AR) are required for optimal male bone health. The target cell(s) for the effects of androgens on cortical bone remain(s) incompletely understood. In females, estrogen receptor alpha in neurons is a negative regulator of cortical and trabecular bone. Whether neuronal AR regulates bone mass in males remains unexplored. Here, we inactivated AR in neurons using a tamoxifen-inducible CreERT2 under the control of the neuronal promoter Thy1. Tamoxifen induced a 70% to 80% reduction of AR mRNA levels in Thy1-CreERT2-positive brain regions cerebral cortex and brainstem as well as in the peripheral nervous tissue of male neuronal AR knockout (N-ARKO) mice. Hypothalamic AR mRNA levels were only marginally reduced and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis remained unaffected, as determined by normal levels of serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). In contrast to orchidectomy, deletion of neuronal AR did not alter body weight, body composition, hindlimb muscle mass, grip strength, or wheel running. MicroCT analysis of the femur revealed no changes in bone accrual during growth in N-ARKO mice. However, 36- and 46-week-old N-ARKO mice displayed an accelerated age-related cortical involution, namely a more pronounced loss of cortical thickness and strength, which occurred in the setting of androgen sufficiency. Neuronal AR inactivation decreased the cancellous bone volume fraction in L5 vertebra but not in the appendicular skeleton of aging mice. MicroCT findings were corroborated in the tibia and after normalization of hormonal levels. Serum markers of bone turnover and histomorphometry parameters were comparable between genotypes, except for a 30% increase in osteoclast surface in the trabecular compartment of 36-week-old N-ARKO mice. Cortical bone loss in N-ARKO mice was associated with an upregulation of Ucp1 expression in brown adipose tissue, a widely used readout for sympathetic tone. We conclude that androgens preserve cortical integrity in aging male mice via AR in neurons. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Combined heparin/acid citrate dextrose solution A anticoagulation in the Optia continuous mononuclear cell protocol for pediatric lymphocyte apheresis
Authors: DeSimone Robert A. , Myers Gary D. , Guest Erin M. , Shi Patricia A.
Published: November 2018

Collecting a sufficient number of T‐cells is a critical first step in the production of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cells. Herein, we report a successful implementation of anticoagulation with combined heparin and acid citrate dextrose solution A (ACD‐A) for the continuous mononuclear cell (CMNC) protocol on the Spectra Optia in a 20‐month‐old, 7.5 kg patient with refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia for manufacture of tisagenlecleucel, a CAR‐T cell therapy. Combined heparin/ACD‐A was used following clotting issues when ACD‐A was used alone during initial CMNC collections. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case in pediatrics of combined heparin/ACD‐A anticoagulation with the Spectra Optia CMNC protocol.
Hydrodynamics of split‐rectangle‐internal loop airlift bioreactor with variations in riser and downcomer cross‐sectional areas based on the golden ratio
Authors: Rosa Edvaldo AR , Bianchini Luiz F , da Silva Ramos Romeu CP , Arantes Angela B , da Silva Roberto F , Glassey Jarka
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

The use of bioreactors that mimic industrial reality is essential if knowledge transfer is desired. This is particularly important once filamentous microbes face harsh conditions hindering the formation of biofilms in some types of bioreactors and thus diminishing their ability to perform biotransformation or production of secondary metabolites. Airlift bioreactors can circumvent such problems; however, the lack of consensus regarding riser and downcomer partition persists. The use of golden ratio is a possibility to be considered. Our proposition was to evaluate the hydrodynamic performance and mass transfer in split‐rectangle‐internal loop airlift bioreactors (SRILAB) using a golden ratio partition.

RESULTS

In a general way, results revealed that a partition of Ar/Ad1.618 presents better and more desirable characteristics than Ad/Ar1.618 for linear liquid velocity (UL), mixing time (tM), gas holdup (ϵG), and volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient (kLa). Such behavior was observed even when the SRILAB operated under different linear gas velocities (UG) regimens (0.5–1.5 vvm) and Newtonian and non‐Newtonian bulk fluids.

CONCLUSION

Such results support the idea of using the golden ratio as riser‐to‐downcomer partitioning parameter in airlift bioreactors. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Multicenter, retrospective, comparative study of laparoscopic and open Kasai portoenterostomy in children with biliary atresia from Japanese high‐volume centers
Authors: Murase Naruhiko , Hinoki Akinari , Shirota Chiyoe , Tomita Hirofumi , Shimojima Naoki , Sasaki Hideyuki , Nio Masaki , Tahara Kazunori , Kanamori Yutaka , Shinkai Masato , Yamamoto Hirotoshi , Sugawara Yasuhiko , Hibi Taizo , Ishimaru Tetsuya , Kawashima Hiroshi , Koga Hiroyuki , Yamataka Atsuyuki , Uchida Hiroo
Published: November 2018

Background

Multicenter study was undertaken to analyze the results of laparoscopic and open Kasai portoenterostomy.

Methods

Subjects were infants with type III biliary atresia who underwent open operation (n = 106) or laparoscopic operation (n = 21) between January 2012 and December 2015. Clinical data were compared between open and laparoscopic operations (2016‐0534). Propensity score matching was performed to reduce the effect of treatment selection bias. Multivariate analyses were used to estimate the effect of the surgical approach on the jaundice clearance rate and the native liver survival rate.

Results

The postoperative jaundice clearance rate and the 1‐year native liver survival rate were not significantly different between open and laparoscopic operations. Rates of cholangitis and major complications of laparoscopic operation were comparable to those of open operation. Blood loss, time to resume oral intake, time to drain removal, and duration of analgesic usage of laparoscopic operation were significantly superior to those of open operation. Similar results were observed when analysis was adjusted based on propensity score. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that only age at operation was a poor prognostic factor.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic Kasai portoenterostomy was associated with several favorable perioperative outcomes compared with open Kasai portoenterostomy. The difference of surgical approach was not a significant independent predictor.
Free Radical Synthetic Protocol for Benzothiazoles via Ring Opening of Benzotriazole: A Two‐step Organic Chemistry Experiment for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students
Authors: Singh Anoop S. , Mishra Nidhi , Yadav Mangal S. , Tiwari Vinod K.
Published: November 2018

The utility and advantages of benzotriazole methodology have been described for the practical synthesis of benzothiazoles. The two‐step synthetic procedure includes nucleophilic acyl substitution followed by benzotriazole ring cleavage under the free radical condition and subsequent cyclization via elimination of molecular nitrogen (N2). This protocol requires cheap and readily available reagents, and moreover easy to handle, thus can be used to teach undergraduate and postgraduate students about the importance of benzotriazole moiety in organic synthesis, ring cleavage chemistry, cyclization reactions, and use of industrial waste in free radical reactions. Students can also learn some important and common techniques useful in organic chemistry such as monitoring of organic reaction using thin‐layer chromatography and UV, microwave (MW) technique for the synthesis, and column chromatography for the product isolation and structure determination through NMR, MS, and IR spectral analysis of the pure compounds.
Clinical and radiographic evaluation and comparison of bioactive bone alloplast morsels when used alone and in combination with platelet‐rich fibrin in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects—A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bodhare Girish H. , Kolte Abhay P. , Kolte Rajashri A. , Shirke Prerna Y.
Published: November 2018

Background

The present study aims to evaluate and compare the clinical and radiographic changes obtained through Bioactive Glass (BG) with and without autologous platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) in the treatment of intrabony defects in chronic periodontitis patients.

Methods

The present study was a split‐mouth randomized controlled clinical trial comprising 20 chronic periodontitis patients (mean age: 35.9 years) having at least one pair of bilateral intrabony defect. Group 1 included 20 sites treated with a combination of BG and autologous PRF whereas 20 sites in Group 2 were treated with BG alone. Probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and gingival recession (GR) were evaluated at 3 and 6 months and bone fill at 6 months by using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis. Primary study outcomes were changes in PPD, CAL, GR, and bone fill.

Results

CAL gain was greater in Group 1 (5.05 ± 1.09 mm) when compared with Group 2 (4.2 ± 1.70 mm). Furthermore, a significantly greater bone fill was found in Group 1. At 6 months, statistically significant reduction in PPD in Group 1 and Group 2 was evident.

Conclusion

BG morsel when used in combination with PRF is found to be more effective in gain in CAL, reduction in PPD and achieving greater bone fill as compared with treatment with BG alone in periodontal intrabony defects and is indicative of enhanced periodontal regeneration.
Gel formation mechanism and gel properties controlled by Ca2+in chia seed mucilage and model substances
Authors: Brax Mathilde , Schaumann Gabriele Ellen , Diehl Dörte
Published: November 2018

Polygalacturonic acid (PGA) is considered as a model substance for mucilage to study mucilage–soil interactions, assuming that the gel formation mechanism of mucilage is comparable to the one of PGA. However, some studies question the accepted hypothesis, which states that, like for PGA, this mechanism relies on cross‐links between uronic acid and calcium for mucilage. The aim of this study was therefore to understand the influence of the abundance and degree of esterification of uronic acids and the influence of calcium on the gel formation mechanism in mucilage as compared to model substances.

The mucilage used was from chia seeds, as it is easily available in great quantity and has gel properties shared by root mucilage. Results reported here demonstrate that, while the gel formation mechanism of PGA relied on specific cross‐links with calcium and led to heterogeneous gels, low‐methoxy pectin (LMP) formed homogeneous calcium gels also characterized by nonspecific ionic interactions with calcium. On the contrary, despite similar uronic acid content to LMP, chia seed mucilage was mostly governed by weak electrostatic interactions between entangled polymer chains, which conferred the gel poor water retention. Addition of calcium reduced repulsion and molecular expansion, resulting in a reduction of the water content in chia seed mucilage. Finally, the discrepancies between PGA, LMP and chia seed mucilage discredit the use of PGA as model for chia seed mucilage. Comparison with root mucilage is still needed. This study offers the keys for further mechanistic understanding on the influence of mucilage on soil properties.
Theoretical and experimental research on self‐assembly system of molecularly imprinted polymers formed via chloramphenicol and methacrylic acid
Authors: Liu Jun‐Bo , Wang Guang‐Yu , Tang Shan‐Shan , Gao Qian , Liang Da‐Dong , Jin Rui‐Fa
Published: November 2018

Chloramphenicol was chosen as the imprinting molecule and the methacrylic acid was chosen as the functional monomer to prepare molecularly imprinted polymers. Ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, pentaerythritol triacrylate, and trimethylolpropane trimethylacrylate were used as the cross‐linking agents, respectively. The interaction processes between chloramphenicol and methacrylic acid were simulated by using the ωB97XD/6‐31G (d,p) method. The self‐assembled configuration, bonding sites, binding number, binding energy, and interaction principle of stable complex formed by chloramphenicol and methacrylic acid with different molar ratios have been studied. The selectivity of the most stable complex formed from chloramphenicol and methacrylic acid was discussed with the thiamphenicol and florfenicol as the analogues of chloramphenicol. The results showed that chloramphenicol and methacrylic acid were interacted through the hydrogen bonds. When the molar ratio was 1:10 and pentaerythritol triacrylate as the cross‐linking agent, the ordered complex formed by chloramphenicol and methacrylic acid has the largest amount of hydrogen bonds and the lowest binding energy. Scatchard analysis showed that the maximum apparent adsorption capacity was 173.3 mg/g (0.536 mol/g), and the selection factor of florfenicol was the largest. This study provides a reliable theoretical and experimental basis for the design, preparation, and characterization of chloramphenicol molecularly imprinted polymers.
Rapid method for simultaneous determination of ascorbic acid and zinc in effervescent tablets by capillary zone electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection
Authors: Ribeiro Michelle Miranda A. C. , Prado Aliceana A. , Domingues Batista Alex , Alejandro Abarza Munoz Rodrigo , Mathias Richter Eduardo
Published: November 2018

Ascorbic acid and zinc are essential nutrients that play important roles in nutrition, immune support, and maintenance of health. For this reason, both compounds are widely used as ingredients in dietary supplements. We report, for the first time, an analytical method for fast simultaneous determination of ascorbic acid and zinc. A single analysis run is possible every 80 s (45 injections/h). The method is based on capillary electrophoresis with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection using a fused silica capillary with 50 cm length (effective length of 10 cm). The separation was achieved by using a background electrolyte composed by 30 mmol/L of 2‐(morpholin‐4‐yl)ethane‐1‐sulfonic acid and 30 mmol/L of histidine, pH 6.1. The detection limits were 10 and 20 μmol/L and recovery values for spiked samples were 101 and 100% for zinc and ascorbic acid, respectively. The results obtained with the developed procedure were compared to those obtained by titration (ascorbic acid) and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (zinc), and no statistically significant differences were observed (95% confidence level).
Easily mineralizable carbon in manure‐based biochar added to a soil influences N2O emissions and microbial‐N cycling genes
Authors: Dai Zhongmin , Li Yong , Zhang Xiaojie , Wu Jianjun , Luo Yu , Kuzyakov Yakov , Brookes Philip C. , Xu Jianming
Published: November 2018

Manure‐based biochar is an effective amendment to increase both carbon sequestration and the fertility of degraded soils, whereas the responses of N2O emissions and microbial‐N cycling genes to its application and the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, four biochars were produced under two pyrolysis temperatures (300 and 700°C) and with two organic C extraction procedures (water and acetone extraction). The resulting biochars were either with relative enrichment or depletion in easily mineralizable carbon (EMC) compared with recalcitrant C. We added biochars, with urea and sodium nitrate, to a degraded red soil and incubated the amended soils at moisture levels of 60% and 130% field capacity. All the biochars decreased nitrification gene abundance, that is, amoA. Biochars with EMC had greater stimulatory effects on the abundance of denitrification genes (nirK, nirS, and nosZ) and N2O emission, regardless of moisture level and N form, compared with biochar without EMC. Biochar‐induced microbial activity, biochar aliphatics, and alkyl groups correlated positively with N2O emission and denitrification gene abundance. The water dissolved organic C of biochar facilitated the conversion of N2O to N2, whereas the acetone extractable C fraction postponed the completion of denitrification. In conclusion, the N2O emission and denitrification gene abundance increased with decreasing biochar aromaticity and increasing EMC content. Our study emphasizes that the EMC supply in manure‐based biochars also importantly mediates soil N2O emission and microbial N cycling genes, adding to current understanding of influencing factors such as biochar pH, porosity, N availability, and redox property.
Seasonality in coastal macrobenthic biomass and its implications for estimating secondary production using empirical models
Authors: Saulnier Erwan , Brind'Amour Anik , Tableau Adrien , Rufino Marta M. , Dauvin Jean‐Claude , Luczak Christophe , Le Bris Hervé
Published: November 2018

Macrobenthic secondary production is widely used to assess the trophic capacity, health, and functioning of marine and freshwater ecosystems. Annual production estimates are often calculated using empirical models and based on data collected during a single period of the year. Yet, many ecosystems show seasonal variations. Although ignoring seasonality may lead to biased and inaccurate estimates of annual secondary production, it has never been tested at the community level. Using time series of macrobenthic data collected seasonally at three temperate marine coastal soft‐bottom sites, we assessed seasonal variations in biomass of macrobenthic invertebrates at both population and community levels. We then investigated how these seasonal variations affect the accuracy of annual benthic production when assessed using an empirical model and data from a single sampling event. Significant and consistent seasonal variations in biomass at the three study sites were highlighted. Macrobenthic biomass was significantly lower in late winter and higher in summer/early fall for 18 of the 30 populations analyzed and for all three communities studied. Seasonality led to inaccurate and often biased estimates of annual secondary production at the community level when based on data from a single sampling event. Bias varied by site and sampling period, but reached ∼ 50% if biomass was sampled at its annual minimum or maximum. Since monthly sampling is rarely possible, we suggest that ecologists account for uncertainty in annual production estimates caused by seasonality.
Effects of Agrochemicals on Freshwater Macroinvertebrates: Challenges and Perspectives from Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Mello José L. , Cardoso Bruna N. , Colombo‐Corbi Vanessa , Corbi Juliano J.
Published: November 2018

The aquatic environment is a dynamic product of complex interactions among biotic and abiotic factors. Alterations in their chemical and physical characteristics may directly affect their biological activities, compromising ecosystem functioning and the provisioning of ecosystem services that depend on biodiversity. In the last five decades, agriculture expansion and agrochemical utilization have increased following food demand. The trend is anticipated to continue due to factors like population growth, the emergence of new pests, and the use of biofuels. The increasing application of agrochemicals is an emerging threat to aquatic ecosystems due to their constant entry into water bodies and their high toxicity. Here, we present a brief synthesis of the effects of agrochemicals in freshwater systems, mainly their impacts on an important biological component of aquatic biota, the macroinvertebrates. We also present some key points about the use of different endpoints, such as biologic interactions and genetic diversity loss, in ecotoxicological analyses and determination of new test organisms to be explored and standardized for tropical regions.
Almost automorphic solutions for stochastic differential equations driven by fractional Brownian motion
Authors: Chen Feng , Yang Xue
Published: November 2018

This paper concerns a class of stochastic differential equations driven by fractional Brownian motion. The existence and uniqueness of almost automorphic solutions in distribution are established provided the coefficients satisfy some suitable conditions. To illustrate the results obtained in the paper, a stochastic heat equation driven by fractional Brownian motion is considered.
Simultaneous flap thinning with ultrasound‐assisted liposuction during free flap surgery: Preliminary results
Authors: Ince Bilsev , Yarar Serhat , Dadaci Mehmet
Published: November 2018

Background

Ultrasound‐assisted liposuction (UAL) has been previously used for postoperative flap thinning. Although it had been reported that UAL causes less damage to the vessels, the simultaneous use of UAL with free flap reconstruction has not been reported. The aim of this report was to determine the results and the complication rates of simultaneous use of UAL with free flap reconstruction.

Patients and methods

Twelve patients who underwent simultaneous flap thinning with UAL during free anterolateral thigh flap surgery between 2014 and 2016 were included in this prospective study. The mean age of the patients was 46.7 (ranging 10–76) years. The mean body mass index of the patients was 26.81 (ranging 25.2–29.8). Flaps were thinned with UAL before harvesting. The mean flap thicknesses were measured using a metal ruler before and after the UAL procedure. Biopsies were performed lateral to the center of the flaps, after completion of the UAL procedure. Vascular and collagen structures were histopathologically examined. The Likert scale, which evaluates the general appearance, shape, color, and texture, was used to assess the aesthetic results of the UAL procedure.

Results

The average flap size was 13 × 9 cm. The mean pedicle length was 8.3 (ranging 7–10) cm. The mean flap thickness was 23 (ranging 19–27) mm and decreased to a mean of 8.1 (ranging 5–11) mm. Wound dehiscence and partial skin necrosis was observed in 2 patients (2/12, 16.66%). None of the patients had total flap necrosis. Vascular and collagen structures of the biopsied samples were normal. Patients were followed for an average of 13 months post UAL. The mean Likert score was 17.1 (ranging 15–19).

Conclusions

Flap thinning with UAL can be safely performed during the initial free flap reconstruction operation.
Optimizing survival of large fibula osteocutaneous flaps for extensive full‐thickness oromandibular defects: A two‐stage approach with temporary orocutaneous fistula
Authors: Ciudad Pedro , Huang Tony Chieh‐Ting , Manrique Oscar J. , Agko Mouchammed , Adabi Kian , Nicoli Fabio , Saçak Bülent , Kiranantawat Kidakorn , Moran Steven L. , Chen Hung‐Chi
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Composite and large head and neck defects requiring extensive skin‐mucosa coverage are often reconstructed by combining flaps. Herein, we present a simple and reliable two‐stage fibula osteocutaneous (FOC) flap technique to improve the survival of a large skin paddle for oromandibular reconstructions.

Methods

From October 2011 to September 2016, 47 patients with through‐and‐through oromandibular defects were reconstructed using FOC flaps with large skin paddles. To ensure optimum survival of skin paddles, temporary orocutaneous fistula were left in place and closed during the second stage operation via de‐epithelialization of the skin paddle and suturing of mucosa. Demographic data, operative details, and postoperative complications were recorded.

Results

The skin paddle dimensions ranged from 20 to 31.5 cm in length and 12 to 17 cm in width with an average area of 430.4 cm2 (range 300–504). The average time between the two stages and hospital stay were 10 days and 14 days, respectively. Complications at the donor site included wound dehiscence (n = 3, 6.4%), partial skin graft loss (n = 3, 6.4%) and hematoma (n = 2, 4.3%). Recipient site complications included two (4.3%) early postoperative venous congestions that resolved after elevation and three (6.4%) partial skin flap necrosis (less than 5% surface area). All complications resolved with bedside conservative management. There was only one take‐back for evacuation of recipient site hematoma (2.1%) but no flap loss.

Conclusion

Two‐staged large skin paddle FOC flaps can simplify reconstruction of extensive oromandibular defects by improving the reliability of the sizable skin paddle and negating the need for a second flap.
Properties of the anisotropy of dose contributions: A planning study on prostate cases
Authors: Greber Johannes , Polat Bülent , Flentje Michael , Bratengeier Klaus
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To characterize the static properties of the anisotropy of dose contributions for different treatment techniques on real patient data (prostate cases). From this, we aim to define a class of treatment techniques with invariant anisotropy distribution carrying information of target coverage and organ‐at‐risk (OAR) sparing. The anisotropy presumably is a helpful quantity for plan adaptation problems.

Methods

The anisotropy field is analyzed for different intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) techniques for a total of ten planning CTs of prostate cases. Primary irradiation directions ranged from 5 to 15. The uniqueness of anisotropy was explored: In particular, the anisotropy distribution inside the planning treatment volume (PTV) and in its vicinity was investigated. Furthermore, deviations of the anisotropy under beam rotations were explored by direct plan comparison as an indicating the susceptibility of each planned technique to changes in the geometric plan configuration. In addition, plan comparisons enabled the categorization of treatment techniques in terms of their anisotropy distribution.

Results

The anisotropy profile inside the PTV and in the transition between OAR and PTV is independent of the treatment technique as long as a sufficient number of beams contribute to the dose distribution. Techniques with multiple beams constitute a class of almost identical and technique‐independent anisotropy distribution. For this class of techniques, substructures of the anisotropy are particularly pronounced in the PTV, thus offering good options for applying adaptation rules. Additionally, the techniques forming the mentioned class fortunately allow a better OAR sparing at constant PTV coverage. Besides the characterization of the distribution, a pairwise plan comparison reveals each technique's susceptibility to deviations which decreases for an increasing number of primary irradiation directions.

Conclusions

Techniques using many irradiation directions form a class of almost identical anisotropy distributions which are assumed to provide a basis for improved adaptation procedures. Encouragingly, these techniques deliver quite invariant anisotropy distributions with respect to rotations correlated with good plan qualities than techniques using few gantry angles. The following will be the next steps toward anisotropy‐based adaptation: first, the quantification of anisotropy regarding organ deformations; and second, establishing the interrelation between the anisotropy and beam shaping.
VCP myopathy: A family with unusual clinical manifestations
Authors: Guo Xuan , Zhao Zhe , Shen Hongrui , Qi Bing , Li Nan , Hu Jing
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Valosin‐containing protein (VCP) variants that affect muscle, bone, and the nervous system are termed multisystem proteinopathy. VCP myopathy is manifested as limb‐girdle weakness, distal weakness and scapuloperoneal weakness.

Methods

We reviewed clinical, genetic, and muscle biopsy data from 6 members of a family with VCP myopathy.

Results

Clinical features of family members were complex and included dementia, myopathy, and hearing impairment. Ophthalmoplegia, ptosis, and dysphagia were present in 3 siblings. Rimmed vacuoles were observed in muscle biopsies, consistent with the pathological changes of VCP myopathy. A heterozygous VCP c.463C>A (p.R155S) that segregated in an autosomal‐dominant pattern was identified by genetic analysis.

Conclusions

VCP myopathy can cause unusual manifestations that include ophthalmoplegia, ptosis, and dysphagia. This study increased our understanding of the clinical manifestations of VCP myopathy. Muscle Nerve 59:365–369, 2019
Preparation and characterization of collagen/chitosan poly (ethylene glycol)/nanohydroxyapatite composite scaffolds
Authors: Kozlowska Justyna , Stachowiak Natalia , Sionkowska Alina
Published: November 2018

Porous three‐dimensional collagen/chitosan scaffolds combined with poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) and hydroxyapatite were obtained through a freeze‐drying method. Physical cross‐linking was examined by dehydrothermal treatment. The prepared materials were characterized by different analyses, eg, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), measurements of porosity and swelling, mechanical properties, and resistance to enzymatic degradation. The porosity of scaffolds and their swelling ratio decreased with the addition of hydroxyapatite. Moreover, after exposure to collagenase, the collagen/chitosan matrices containing PEG showed much faster degradation rate than matrices with the addition of hydroxyapatite. The results indicated that the addition of hydroxyapatite led to improvement of stiffness. The highest degree of porosity and swelling were demonstrated by collagen/chitosan/PEG matrices without hydroxyapatite.
Preparation of PVDF ultrafiltration membranes using PVA as pore surface hydrophilic modification agent with improved antifouling performance
Authors: Zheng Zhao‐Shan , Li Bing‐Bing , Duan Shi‐Yuan , Sun De , Peng Cong‐Kang
Published: November 2018

Novel polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafiltration (UF) membranes were facilely fabricated using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) aqueous solution as the coagulation bath through phase inversion method. In the process, PVA was introduced into the pore surfaces of the PVDF membranes via the interdiffusion of the non‐solvent water and the solvent. The effects of PVA content in the coagulation bath on membrane properties were systematically discussed. The results indicated that the increase of PVA content in coagulation bath resulted in the formations of the more sponge‐like structures and the higher surface hydrophilicity. Smaller pore size led to lower water flux and higher bovine serum albumin rejection. Fouling resistance measurement indicated that the membranes made in PVA/water coagulation bath had higher flux recovery ratio (92.1%) than the membrane made in a pure water bath (71.0%). Furthermore, mechanical property test revealed that the resulting membranes had high tensile strength and Young's modulus. In this work, we found that the morphology and the property of the novel PVDF membranes could be determined by the PVA content in the coagulation bath. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:E384–E393, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Multicolor Light‐Emitting Diodes with MoS2 Quantum Dots
Authors: Yin Wenxu , Bai Xue , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhang Jia , Gao Xupeng , Yu William W.
Published: November 2018

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) quantum dots (QDs) are known for their excitation‐wavelength‐dependent photoluminescent (PL) properties. However, the mechanism of this phenomenon is still unclear. Here, small size MoS2 QDs with a narrow size distribution are synthesized. Based on the decay study and PL dynamics, a reasonable radiation model is presented to understand the special PL properties, i.e., the carrier recombination in the localized surface defect states generated the PL. Accordingly, this optical property is used to fabricate multicolor light‐emitting devices with the same MoS2 QDs. The emission color covers the full visible spectrum from blue to red, only by adjusting the thickness of the down‐conversion QD layers.
Integrated Eutopic Endometrium and Non‐Depleted Serum Quantitative Proteomic Analysis Identifies Candidate Serological Markers of Endometriosis
Authors: Manousopoulou Antigoni , Hamdan Mukhri , Fotopoulos Miltiadis , Garay‐Baquero Diana J. , Teng Jie , Garbis Spiros D. , Cheong Ying
Published: November 2018

Background

Endometriosis affects about 4% of women in the reproductive age and is associated with subfertility. The aim of the present study is to examine the integrated quantitative proteomic profile of eutopic endometrium and serum from women with endometriosis compared to controls in order to identify candidate disease‐specific serological markers.

Methods

Eutopic endometrium and serum from patients with endometriosis (n = 8 for tissue and n = 4 for serum) are, respectively, compared to endometrium and serum from females without endometriosis (n = 8 for tissue and n = 4 for serum) using a shotgun quantitative proteomics method. All study participants are at the proliferative phase of their menstrual cycle.

Results

At the tissue and serum level, 1214 and 404 proteins are differentially expressed (DEPs) in eutopic endometrium and serum, respectively, of women with endometriosis versus controls. Gene ontology analysis shows that terms related to immune response/inflammation, cell adhesion/migration, and blood coagulation are significantly enriched in the DEPs of eutopic endometrium, as well as serum. Twenty‐one DEPs have the same trend of differential expression in both matrices and can be further examined as potential disease‐ and tissue‐specific serological markers of endometriosis.

Conclusions

The present integrated proteomic profiling of eutopic endometrium and serum from women with endometriosis identify promising serological markers that can be further validated in larger cohorts for the minimally invasive diagnosis of endometriosis.
Shock Initiation of the Triaminotrinitrobenzene‐Based Explosive JBO‐9021 Measured with a Photon Doppler Velocimeter
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhao Ji‐bo , Gao Zhi‐peng , Wu Xing , He Hong‐liang , Gu Yan
Published: November 2018

Triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) is an important insensitive high explosive because of its low shock sensitivity and high energy. The evolution of shock into the detonation of TATB requires academic attention and research. A multi‐points laser interferometer termed a photon Doppler velocimeter and a rotating mirror streak camera were used to study the shock initiation of detonation in a pressed solid explosive formulation, JBO‐9021, which contained 85 wt.% TATB, 10 wt.% HMX and 5 wt.% Kel‐F binder. In conventional experiments, the test explosive was assembled by using several columniform explosives with different external diameters. A new device was designed to solve complex problems. This device comprised a wedge‐shaped explosive sample and a transparent window, and by using this device, the particle‐velocity histories of eight shock positions and the shockwave velocity could be obtained. A series of shock‐initiation experiments on high explosive JBO‐9021 was performed, and the explosive samples were initiated at different intensity input shocks by an explosive‐driven attenuator. The photon Doppler velocimeter was used to detail the growth from an input shock to detonation, and the increase in particle velocity in unreacted JBO‐9021 was also obtained in low‐intensity shock‐initiation experiments. The shock velocity was measured with a rotating mirror streak camera in one experiment. Hugoniot data for JBO‐9021 in the form of a shock velocity versus a particle velocity and the initial shock pressure versus a distance‐to‐detonation relationship (Pop‐plot) were obtained. Based on the experimental results, the shock‐sensitivity characteristic of JBO‐9021 was described.
Estimation of ground‐based GNSS Zenith Total Delay temporal observation error correlations using data from the NOAA and E‐GVAP networks
Authors: Macpherson Stephen , Laroche Stéphane
Published: November 2018

In preparation for possible higher frequency assimilation of ground‐based Global Navigation Satellite System (GB‐GNSS) Zenith Total Delay (ZTD) observations at Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), two popular diagnostic methods are applied to observation‐minus‐background and observation‐minus‐analysis departures from the ECCC Global Deterministic Prediction System (GDPS) to estimate temporal ZTD observation error correlations within the 6 h assimilation window. The GDPS uses a four‐dimensional ensemble‐variational (4D‐EnVar) data assimilation system with a background error covariance matrix (B‐matrix) obtained from an equal blend of 3D static and 4D flow‐dependent (ensemble‐based) background error covariances. The two diagnostic methods, the Desroziers method and the Hollingsworth–Lönnberg method, are applied using ZTD observations from the North American NOAA network and the European EIG EUMETNET GNSS Water Vapour Programme (E‐GVAP) network with similar results obtained for both networks. Correlations estimated with the Desroziers method drop off rapidly with time difference becoming significantly negative for observations separated by more than 2–3 h. The results are unexpected as there is no obvious physical basis for negative correlations. It is shown how suboptimal specification of the background error covariances in the 4D‐EnVar assimilation system B‐matrix could explain the unexpected aspects of the results obtained with this method. In contrast, diagnosed observation error covariances without negative temporal correlations are obtained with the Hollingsworth–Lönnberg method, where a decorrelation time‐scale on the order of 4 h is found. Both methods capture some expected features of the error correlations, such as highly correlated errors between observations within the same 1 h data processing blocks. While considerable uncertainty is associated with the results due to the inherent assumptions and limitations of both methods, the results do suggest that ZTD observation error decorrelation time‐scales are on the order of a few hours rather than days as suggested by early pioneering work with different error correlation estimation methods.
Incorporating external evidence on between‐trial heterogeneity in network meta‐analysis
Authors: Turner Rebecca M. , Domínguez‐Islas Clara P. , Jackson Dan , Rhodes Kirsty M. , White Ian R.
Published: November 2018

In a network meta‐analysis, between‐study heterogeneity variances are often very imprecisely estimated because data are sparse, so standard errors of treatment differences can be highly unstable. External evidence can provide informative prior distributions for heterogeneity and, hence, improve inferences. We explore approaches for specifying informative priors for multiple heterogeneity variances in a network meta‐analysis.

First, we assume equal heterogeneity variances across all pairwise intervention comparisons (approach 1); incorporating an informative prior for the common variance is then straightforward. Models allowing unequal heterogeneity variances are more realistic; however, care must be taken to ensure implied variance‐covariance matrices remain valid. We consider three strategies for specifying informative priors for multiple unequal heterogeneity variances. Initially, we choose different informative priors according to intervention comparison type and assume heterogeneity to be proportional across comparison types and equal within comparison type (approach 2). Next, we allow all heterogeneity variances in the network to differ, while specifying a common informative prior for each. We explore two different approaches to this: placing priors on variances and correlations separately (approach 3) or using an informative inverse Wishart distribution (approach 4).

Our methods are exemplified through application to two network metaanalyses. Appropriate informative priors are obtained from previously published evidence‐based distributions for heterogeneity.

Relevant prior information on between‐study heterogeneity can be incorporated into network meta‐analyses, without needing to assume equal heterogeneity across treatment comparisons. The approaches proposed will be beneficial in sparse data sets and provide more appropriate intervals for treatment differences than those based on imprecise heterogeneity estimates.
Efficient resource management in the cloud: From simulation to experimental validation using a low‐cost Raspberry Pi testbed
Authors: Maenhaut Pieter‐Jan , Volckaert Bruno , Ongenae Veerle , De Turck Filip
Published: November 2018

Within the context of cloud computing, efficient resource management is of great importance as it can result in higher scalability and significant energy and cost reductions over time. Because of the high complexity and costs of cloud environments, however, newly developed resource allocation strategies are often only validated by means of simulations, for example, by using CloudSim or custom‐developed simulation tools.

This article describes a general approach for the validation of cloud resource allocation strategies, illustrating the importance of experimental validation on physical testbeds. Furthermore, the design and implementation of Raspberry Pi as a Service (RPiaaS), a low‐cost embedded testbed built using Raspberry Pi nodes, is presented. RPiaaS aims to facilitate the step from simulations toward experimental evaluations on larger cloud testbeds and is designed using a microservice architecture, where experiments and all required management services are running inside containers.

The performance of the RPiaaS testbed is evaluated using several benchmark experiments. The obtained results not only illustrate that the overhead of both using containers and running the required RPiaaS services is minimal but also provide useful insights for scaling up experiments between the Raspberry Pi testbed and a larger more traditional cloud testbed.

The introduced validation approach is then illustrated using a case study focusing on the allocation of hierarchically structured tenant data. The results obtained through simulations are compared to the experimental results. The RPiaaS testbed proved to be a very useful tool for the initial experimental validation before moving the experiments to a large‐scale testbed.
Controlling Nuclearity and Stereochemistry in Vanadyl(V) and Mixed Valent VIV/VV Complexes of Oxido‐Pincer Pyridine‐2,6‐dimethanol Ligands
Authors: Nitsche Sara , Schmitz Simon , Stirnat Kathrin , Sandleben Aaron , Klein Axel
Published: November 2018

The coordination chemistry of three oxido‐pincer ligands 2,6‐(HOCR2)2(pyridine) (H2L) based on 2,6‐pyridinedimethanol [R = H (H2pydim), Me (H2pydip), Ph (H2pyphen)] towards vanadium(V) was explored. Reaction of NH4VO3 with the protoligands H2L gave the dinuclear complexes [(L)OV(μ‐O)VO(L)]. Mononuclear anionic species [VO2(L)]–, which were isolated as alkaline metal salts were obtained from reactions of [VO(acac)2] (acac– = acetylacetonate) and H2L under basic conditions and addition of HCl to these species allowed to isolate the unprecedented oxido chlorido complexes [VOCl(L)] for pydip and pyphen. Cyclic voltammograms of the dinuclear [V2O3(L)2] and mononuclear [VOCl(L)] complexes show reversible VV/VIV reduction waves, while corresponding waves of the anionic [VO2(L)]– are completely irreversible. The mixed‐valent VIV/VV species [V2O3(L)2]·– were characterized by EPR and UV/Vis spectroelectrochemistry revealing a delocalized system with a 15 line EPR spectrum and an intervalence charge transfer (IVCT) band for the bulky pyphen ligand but localized radicals in case of the pydim and pydip derivatives (8 line EPR, no IVCT). DFT calculated structures of the three derivatives show an V–O–V arrangement for [V2O3(pyphen)2]·– of about 145° ideally suited for delocalization, whereas for [V2O3(pydip)2]·– an angle of 128° was found.
Synthesis and Structures of Compounds with Molecular, One‐Dimensional, or Two‐Dimensional Selenidocadmate Anions
Authors: Nußbruch Isabell , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: November 2018

Three new ternary selenidocadmates, K6[CdSe4] (1), K2[CdSe2] (2), and K2[Cd3Se4] (3), were synthesized and isolated upon fusion of K2Se and CdSe in respective stoichiometric amounts, followed by aminothermal treatment with 1,2‐diaminoethane. The anionic substructures range from molecules (0D, 1) through strands (1D, 2) to layered motifs (2D, 3). Compound 1 is isostructural to the corresponding mercury compound, K6[HgSe4], whereas the structure of 3 was previously predicted according to powder diffraction data, and could now be confirmed. The 1D chains in the anion of 2 represent a novel anionic architecture for this class of compounds. Determination of optical absorption properties confirm the expected decrease of the onset‐of‐absorption energies with increasing dimensionality of the anionic structures along the series of compounds. The structures of 1–3 were determined by means of single‐crystal Xray diffraction, and the heavy‐atom composition of the compounds was confirmed by micro Xray fluorescence spectroscopy (μ‐XFS).
The van der Waals Ferromagnets Fe5–δGeTe2 and Fe5–δ–xNixGeTe2 – Crystal Structure, Stacking Faults, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Stahl Juliane , Shlaen Evgeniya , Johrendt Dirk
Published: November 2018

Fe5–δGeTe2 was synthesized by heating the elements at 1050 K and characterized by single crystal and powder X‐ray analysis. The structure [R3m, a = 4.0376(4) Å, c = 29.194(6) Å] consists of Fe5–δGe layers separated by tellurium double layers forming a van der Waals gap. The pronounced two‐dimensional character of Fe5–δGeTe2 causes stacking faults along the c direction. Simulations of different stacking variants using the DIFFaX software reveal disorder occurring in domains. Magnetic measurements of Fe5–δGeTe2 show ferromagnetism below 279 K with a saturation moment of 1.80 μB at 1.8 K. Nickel substitution of the iron sites has little influence on the structure but changes the saturation moment, which passes through a maximum of 2.11 μB in Fe4.11Ni0.50GeTe2. This indicates that structural influences as well as the dilution of the magnetic iron atoms play a decisive role.
Demographic, environmental and genetic determinants of mating success in captive koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Authors: Abts Kendra C. , Ivy Jamie A. , DeWoody J. Andrew
Published: November 2018

Many factors have been shown to affect mating behavior. For instance, genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) are known to influence mate choice in a wide variety of vertebrate species. The genetic management of captive populations can be confounded if intrinsic mate choice reduces or eliminates reproductive success between carefully chosen breeding pairs. For example, the San Diego Zoo koala colony only has a 45% copulation rate for matched individuals. Herein, we investigated determinants of koala mating success using breeding records (1984–2010) and genotypes for 52 individuals at four MHC markers. We quantified MHC diversity according to functional amino acids, heterozygosity, and the probability of producing a heterozygous offspring. We then used categorical analysis and logistic regression to investigate both copulation and parturition success. In addition, we also examined age, day length, and average pairwise kinship. Our post‐hoc power analysis indicates that at a power level of 1−β = 0.8, we should have been able to detect strong MHC preferences. However, we did not find a significant MHC effect on either copulation or parturition success with one exception: pairs with lower or no production of a joey had significantly lower MHC functional amino acid diversity in the categorical analysis. In contrast, day length and dam age (or age difference of the pair) consistently had an effect on mating success. These findings may be leveraged to improve the success of attempted pairs, conserve resources, and facilitate genetic management.