bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexual dimorphism in the Arachnid orders
Authors: McLean Callum J. , Garwood Russell J. , Brassey Charlotte A.
Published: November 2018

Sexual differences in size and shape are common across the animal kingdom. The study of sexual dimorphism (SD) can provide insight into the sexual- and natural-selection pressures experienced by males and females in different species. Arachnids are diverse, comprising over 100,000 species, and exhibit some of the more extreme forms of SD in the animal kingdom, with the males and females of some species differing dramatically in body shape and/or size. Despite this, research on arachnid SD has primarily focused on specific clades as opposed to observing traits across arachnid orders, the smallest of which have received comparatively little attention. This review provides an overview of the research to date on the trends and potential evolutionary drivers for SD and sexual size dimorphism (SSD) in individual arachnid orders, and across arachnids as a whole. The most common trends across Arachnida are female-biased SSD in total body size, male-biased SSD in relative leg length and SD in pedipalp length and shape. However, the evolution of sexually dimorphic traits within the group is difficult to elucidate due to uncertainty in arachnid phylogenetic relationships. Based on the dataset we have gathered here, we highlight gaps in our current understanding and suggest areas for future research.
Unimodal head-width distribution of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) from the Zeeschelde does not support disruptive selection
Authors: Verhelst Pieterjan , De Meyer Jens , Reubens Jan , Coeck Johan , Goethals Peter , Moens Tom , Mouton Ans
Published: November 2018

Since the early 20th century, European eels (Anguilla anguilla L.) have been dichotomously classified into ‘narrow’ and ‘broad’ heads. These morphs are mainly considered the result of a differential food choice, with narrow heads feeding primarily on small/soft prey and broad heads on large/hard prey. Yet, such a classification implies that head-width variation follows a bimodal distribution, leading to the assumption of disruptive selection. We investigated the head morphology of 272 eels, caught over three consecutive years (2015–2017) at a single location in the Zeeschelde (Belgium). Based on our results, BIC favored a unimodal distribution, while AIC provided equal support for a unimodal and a bimodal distribution. Notably, visualization of the distributions revealed a strong overlap between the two normal distributions under the bimodal model, likely explaining the ambiguity under AIC. Consequently, it is more likely that head-width variation followed a unimodal distribution, indicating there are no disruptive selection pressures for bimodality in the Zeeschelde. As such, eels could not be divided in two distinct head-width groups. Instead, their head widths showed a continuum of narrow to broad with a normal distribution. This pattern was consistent across all maturation stages studied here.
Host anemone size as a determinant of social group size and structure in the orange clownfish (Amphiprion percula)
Authors: Chausson Juliette , Srinivasan Maya , Jones Geoffrey P.
Published: November 2018

The size and structure of social groups of animals can be governed by a range of ecological factors and behavioral interactions. In small, highly site-attached coral reef fishes, group size is often constrained by the size of the habitat patch they are restricted to. However, group size may also be influenced by changes in abundance along important environmental gradients, such as depth or distance offshore. In addition, the body size and sex structure within social groups can be determined by the size of the habitat patch and the dominance relationships among group members. Here we examined the roles of ecological factors and behavioral interactions in governing group size and structure in the orange clownfish, Amphiprion percula, on inshore reefs in Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea. We quantified relationships between ecological variables (anemone size, depth, and distance from shore) and social group variables (group size, and total body length of the three largest individuals (ranks 1, 2, and 3)). Anemone size explained the greatest amount of variation in group variables, with strong, positive relationships between anemone surface area and group size, and total length of individuals ranked 1, 2, and 3. Group structure was also weakly correlated with increasing depth and distance from shore, most likely through the indirect effects of these environmental gradients on anemone size. Variation in group size and the lengths of ranks 2 and 3 were all closely related to the length of rank 1. Path analysis indicated that anemone size has a strong direct effect on the length of rank 1. In turn, the length of rank 1 directly affects the size of the subordinate individuals and indirectly affects the group size through its influence on subordinates. Hence, anemone size directly and indirectly controls social group size and structure in this space-limited fish species. It is also likely that anemonefish have feedback effects on anemone size, although this could not be differentiated in the path analysis.
Trait-based predation suitability offers insight into effects of changing prey communities
Authors: Weigel Benjamin , Bonsdorff Erik
Published: November 2018

Increasing environmental pressures and human impacts are reshaping community structures and species interactions throughout all trophic levels. The morphological and behavioural characteristics of species communities contain key ecological information on why prey species appear attractive to predators but are rarely applied when exploring predator-prey (PP) relationships. Expanding our knowledge on how changing prey communities can alter the food resource suitability (RS) for predators is vital for understanding PP dynamics in changing ecosystems. Detailed predator diet data are commonly restricted to commercially important species and often not available over long temporal scales. To find out whether structural changes of prey communities impact the food RS for predator communities over space and time, we apply a novel framework to describe and interpret changes in predator diet-suitability based on predation-relevant traits of prey. We use information on described feeding links from the literature to compile the prey spectrum for each predator and subsequently translate the prey-species into a prey-trait spectrum. For each predator, we then calculate a frequency-based prey-trait affinity score and relate it to the available food resource pool, the community weighted means of prey traits, resulting in a prey-suitability measure. We aim to reveal whether a described multi-decadal change in the community structure of zoobenthos had an impact on the food suitability for the benthic-feeding fish in a coastal system of the Baltic Sea. We assess the direction of change in resource quality from the perspective of benthic-feeding fish and describe predator-specific responses to examine which species are likely to profit or be disadvantaged by changes in their prey spectrum. Furthermore, we test the relationship between functional diversity of prey communities and food suitability for predators, and whether predation linkage-structures are affected through prey community-changes. Our results show that changes in zoobenthic communities had a positive effect on the food suitability for most benthic-feeding fish, implying more suitable food resources. Species-specific responses of predators suggest varying plasticity to cope with prey assemblages of different trait compositions. Additionally, the functional diversity of zoobenthos had a positive effect on the food suitability for predator fish. The changing trait compositions of prey influenced the PP linkage-structure, indicating varying specialisation of benthic feeding fish towards available food resources. Our findings suggest that changing morphological characteristics of prey can impact food RS features for its predators. This approach enables long-term evaluation of prey quality characteristics where no detailed diet data is available and allows for cross-system comparison as it is not relying on taxonomic identities per se.
Mapping the distribution of scale-rayed wrasse Acantholabrus palloni in Swedish Skagerrak using angling records
Authors: Näslund Joacim , Lundgren Markus
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we map the distribution of scale-rayed wrasse Acantholabrus palloni in eastern Skagerrak based on a combination of verified and personally communicated angling records. Long thought to be occasional vagrants outside its known range in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, we ask if this rare and understudied labrid has expanded its range and become established in Swedish waters. A recent surge in verified angling records in the Swedish Anglers Association’s specimen database Storfiskregistret provides information to suggest that this species should no longer be considered an occasional guest, but rather a species established in the Swedish parts of Skagerrak. These records are supported by additional personal communications with anglers. The species is currently well spread geographically along the Swedish Skagerrak coast, with many locations providing repeated captures of adult fish over multiple years. The typical Swedish catch sites are rocky reefs located between the general 40- and 80-m depth curves, likely influenced by currents bringing higher-salinity water from the North Sea. The present study show that angling records can provide an important, but underutilized, resource for mapping the distribution of data-deficient fish species.
Academic Libraries and Librarians in the Disruptive Era
Authors: Liauw Toong Tjiek
Published: November 2018

The past few decades have introduced us to the Digital Natives, a generation born in the 1980s, who have been familiar with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the myriads of ICT products since the day they were born. The last decade has also made us familiar with numerous disruptive innovations and technologies that have now been so pervasive in our daily lives and have ‘threatened’ many established practices on how we conduct our lives and businesses, such as ride-sharing (Uber, Grab, etc.), accommodation-sharing (AirBnb), and the blockchain technology that has been applied in more and more aspects of life, with Bitcoin as one of its applications in the crypto currency sector.

 

Those changes and disruptions have not spared the higher education (HE) sector. Nowadays HE institutions need to take into account the characteristics of the Digital Natives, and various disruptive innovations and technologies if they want to remain relevant and stay ahead of the competition in the sector. All aspects of HE – including academic libraries, are not immune to these changes and disruptions. In the past, academic libraries have tended to play their roles as the storehouse of information and the provider of space for individual learning. The advent of the Digital Natives and disruptive technologies have led some in the HE sector to argue that academic libraries would soon lose their relevance since nowadays information can be accessed digitally from anywhere and at any time. People who believe this line of thinking have given some examples. One of them is the demise of Blockbuster (movie rental) stores in the United States (US) with the emergence of online video/movie streaming services. However, many forget that libraries, including academic libraries, also have their social functions besides their traditional roles as an information storehouse and individual learning space. Due to their social functions, libraries have even been viewed as one of the most democratic spaces that societies have. This is especially true in the case of public libraries, but also – to some extent – true for academic libraries, where they also perform their functions as community hubs.
Colorado uses federal opioid grants to increase capacity, combat stigma
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2018

Colorado got $15 million a year for two years for the SOR (State Opioid Response) grants — nearly double what the state received for the STR (State Targeted Response to the Opioid Crisis) grants, at $7.8 million a year for two years. The state has been working hard to battle the stigma against medication‐assisted treatment (MAT), recruiting more primary care physicians to prescribe buprenorphine and enhancing treatment at 22 of the state's opioid treatment programs (OTPs).
Vermont makes inroads in access to medication in corrections system
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2018

The slow but steady progress the state of Vermont is making in expanding access to medication‐assisted treatment in its corrections system illustrates both the progressive leanings of state leaders and the persistent challenges of achieving a cultural shift in any criminal justice system.
IMD exclusion repealed for 4 years, expanding residential care
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2018

One of the provisions of H.R. 6 (the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act) signed by President Trump last month is temporary repeal of the Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMD) exclusion for Medicaid, for substance use disorders (SUDs) only. The decades‐old IMD exclusion prohibits federal Medicaid dollars from paying for inpatient mental and substance use disorder treatment in specialized facilities that have more than 16 beds, but some states have been using a complicated waiver process, set into motion by the Department of Health and Human Services more than three years ago (see ADAW, August 3, 2015). Now, however, the much simpler state plan amendment can be submitted by any state that opts to use federal Medicaid dollars to pay for residential treatment for SUDs in a program of any size.
Teen cannabis vaping and edibles increased in cannabis states
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2018

Legalizing cannabis has resulted in an increased use of vaping and edibles, which may be particularly appealing to young people. Whether these alternative methods of consumption magnify or mitigate the developmental harms of cannabis use is not known. Researchers wanted to find out whether legal cannabis laws, such as dispensary regulations, affect the way youth consume cannabis.
Highly Efficient In Vivo Targeting of the Pulmonary Endothelium Using Novel Modifications of Polyethylenimine: An Importance of Charge
Authors: Dunn Andrew W. , Kalinichenko Vladimir V. , Shi Donglu
Published: November 2018

Pulmonary vascular disease encompasses a wide range of serious afflictions with important clinical implications. There is critical need for the development of efficient, nonviral gene therapy delivery systems. Here, a promising avenue to overcome critical issues in efficient cell targeting within the lung via a uniquely designed nanosystem is reported. Polyplexes are created by functionalizing hyperbranched polyethylenimine (PEI) with biological fatty acids and carboxylate‐terminated poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) through a one‐pot 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride/N‐hydroxysuccinimide reaction. Following intravenous injection, polyplexes show an exceptionally high specificity to the pulmonary microvascular endothelium, allowing for the successful delivery of stabilized enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) expressing messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA). It is further shown, quantitatively, that positive surface charge is the main mechanism behind such high targeting efficiency for these polyplexes. Live in vivo imaging, flow cytometry of single cell suspensions, and confocal microscopy are used to demonstrate that positive polyplexes are enriched in the lung tissue and disseminated in 85–90% of the alveolar capillary endothelium, whilst being sparse in large vessels. Charge modification, achieved through poly(acrylic acid) or heparin coating, drives a highly significant reduction in both targeting percentage and targeting strength, highlighting the importance of specific surface charge, derived from chemical formulation, for efficient targeting of the pulmonary microvascular endothelium.
Materials Science and Design Principles of Growth Factor Delivery Systems in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Subbiah Ramesh , Guldberg Robert E.
Published: November 2018

Growth factors (GFs) are signaling molecules that direct cell development by providing biochemical cues for stem cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. GFs play a key role in tissue regeneration, but one major limitation of GF‐based therapies is dosage‐related adverse effects. Additionally, the clinical applications and efficacy of GFs are significantly affected by the efficiency of delivery systems and other pharmacokinetic factors. Hence, it is crucial to design delivery systems that provide optimal activity, stability, and tunable delivery for GFs. Understanding the physicochemical properties of the GFs and the biomaterials utilized for the development of biomimetic GF delivery systems is critical for GF‐based regeneration. Many different delivery systems have been developed to achieve tunable delivery kinetics for single or multiple GFs. The identification of ideal biomaterials with tunable properties for spatiotemporal delivery of GFs is still challenging. This review characterizes the types, properties, and functions of GFs, the materials science of widely used biomaterials, and various GF loading strategies to comprehensively summarize the current delivery systems for tunable spatiotemporal delivery of GFs aimed for tissue regeneration applications. This review concludes by discussing fundamental design principles for GF delivery vehicles based on the interactive physicochemical properties of the proteins and biomaterials.
Recent Progress of Strong Exciton–Photon Coupling in Lead Halide Perovskites
Authors: Du Wenna , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Qing , Liu Xinfeng
Published: November 2018

The semiconductor exciton–polariton, arising from the strong coupling between excitons and confined cavity photon modes, is not only of fundamental importance in macroscopic quantum effects but also has wide application prospects in ultralow‐threshold polariton lasers, slowing‐light devices, and quantum light sources. Very recently, metallic halide perovskites have been considered as a great candidate for exciton–polariton devices owing to their low‐cost fabrication, large exciton oscillator strength, and binding energy. Herein, the latest progress in exciton–polaritons and polariton lasers of perovskites are reviewed. Polaritons in planar and nanowires Fabry–Pérot microcavities are discussed with particular reference to material and photophysics. Finally, a perspective on the remaining challenges in perovskite polaritons research is given.
Carbon Dioxide Hydrogenation and Formic Acid Dehydrogenation Catalyzed by Iridium Complexes Bearing Pyridyl‐pyrazole Ligands: Effect of an Electron‐donating Substituent on the Pyrazole Ring on the Catalytic Activity and Durability
Authors: Onishi Naoya , Kanega Ryoichi , Fujita Etsuko , Himeda Yuichiro
Published: November 2018

Cp*Ir (Cp*=pentamethylcyclopentadienyl) complexes with an N,N‐bidentate ligand such as 2,2′‐bipyridine serve as catalysts for both carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrogenation to formate and formic acid dehydrogenation in water. Previously, it was shown that the introduction of an electron‐donating substituent on 2,2′‐bipyridine is an effective method to improve the catalytic activity. Especially, the highly electron‐donating hydroxyl (OH) substituent performs much better than other substituents such as methyl or methoxy under basic conditions. However, the introduction of an OH substituent on the ligand has been limited to six‐membered rings such as pyridine or pyrimidine. These results prompted us to develop a new ligand comprising a pyridyl‐pyrazole with an OH group on the pyrazole moiety for Cp*Ir‐catalyzed CO2 hydrogenation and formic acid dehydrogenation. The resultant catalyst showed high catalytic activity in CO2 hydrogenation and excellent robustness in formic acid dehydrogenation with a turnover number of 10 million.

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Cp*Co(III)‐Catalyzed C−H Alkenylation of Aromatic Ketones with Alkenes
Authors: Sk Md Raja , Bera Sourav Sekhar , Maji Modhu Sudan
Published: November 2018

Cost‐effective and air‐stable high‐valent cobalt(III)‐catalyzed weakly coordinating, ketone‐directed regioselective mono‐alkenylation of arenes and heteroarenes with alkenes is demonstrated. Various electron‐rich and electron‐deficient arenes are tolerated under the reaction conditions, providing E‐alkenylated products exclusively. The tert‐butyl‐acrylates serve as an acrylic acid surrogate to provide cinnamic acid derivatives via direct C−H alkenylation. A two‐step synthesis of a γ‐PPAR antagonist, the synthesis of indanone, and the modification of divinylsulfone are reported as applications. The mechanistic details suggest a base‐assisted intermolecular electrophilic substitution reaction pathway.

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Synthesis of polyaluminum hydroxide on silica spheres for effective fire retardant
Authors: Kong Ha‐Sung , Kang Kwang‐Sun
Published: November 2018

Until recent years, the majority of flame retardants have been halogen‐containing compounds. Although halogen compounds slow down the flame spread and reduce the fire growth, they increase the release of toxic gases, such as CO and HX (hydrogen halide), are carcinogenic and toxic chemicals, and accumulate environment. The authors carried out the synthesis of polyaluminum hydroxide on silica spheres for effective fire retardant. Large surface area of nanosilica spheres was utilized for improve the fire retardancy. The surface of silica spheres was modified with 3‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS) and polyaluminum hydroxide. The field emission scanning electron microscope images showed that the amount of aluminum hydroxide increased with increasing the amount of AlCl3. The characteristic absorption peaks of Al–OH, Si–OH, Si–O–Si, Si–O, –CH, Si–O–C, and Si–O–Al were observed. The existence of sulfur indicated the surface of silica spheres were modified with MPTMS. The small amount of Cl implied that most of the Al–Cl3 were hydrolyzed.
Short‐term clinical outcomes of laparoscopic gastrectomy for remnant gastric cancer: A single‐institution experience and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Otsuka Ryota , Hayashi Hideki , Sakata Haruhito , Uesato Masaya , Hayano Koichi , Murakami Kentaro , Kano Masayuki , Fujishiro Takeshi , Toyozumi Takeshi , Semba Yoshihide , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: November 2018

Aim

Application of laparoscopic approaches for the treatment of remnant gastric cancers (RGC) is still controversial. Therefore, in the present study, the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) for RGC was investigated.

Methods

A total of 27 patients who underwent gastrectomy for RGC from June 2008 to September 2017 were enrolled in this study. A comprehensive review of the literature on LG for RGC published before December 2017 using the PubMed database was carried out.

Results

Laparoscopic gastrectomy was carried out in seven patients, and open gastrectomy (OG) was done in the remaining 20 patients. LG was associated with significantly less intraoperative blood loss (70 ± 71 vs. 1066 ± 1428 g; P < 0.001), significantly more retrieved lymph nodes (22 ± 13 vs. 12 ± 9; P = 0.03), a relatively lower postoperative complication rate, and a relatively shorter postoperative hospital stay than OG. A comprehensive review of the literature showed that LG for RGC was more likely to correlate with longer operative time, less blood loss, lower postoperative complication rate, shorter postoperative hospital stay, and more retrieved lymph nodes than OG.

Conclusion

The clinical outcome of our patients with RGC and the literature indicated that a laparoscopic approach contributed to faster recovery after surgery than an open approach without sacrificing its radicality and was a safe and secure treatment option for RGC.
Prediction of Major Regio‐, Site‐, and Diastereoisomers in Diels–Alder Reactions by Using Machine‐Learning: The Importance of Physically Meaningful Descriptors
Authors: Beker Wiktor , Gajewska Ewa P. , Badowski Tomasz , Grzybowski Bartosz A.
Published: November 2018

Machine learning can predict the major regio‐, site‐, and diastereoselective outcomes of Diels–Alder reactions better than standard quantum‐mechanical methods and with accuracies exceeding 90 % provided that i) the diene/dienophile substrates are represented by “physical‐organic” descriptors reflecting the electronic and steric characteristics of their substituents and ii) the positions of such substituents relative to the reaction core are encoded (“vectorized”) in an informative way.
CuI‐Mediated Bromoalkynylation and Hydroalkynylation Reactions of Unsymmetrical Benzynes: Complementary Modes of Addition
Authors: Xiao Xiao , Wang Tao , Xu Feng , Hoye Thomas R.
Published: November 2018

Benzynes formed by heating a suitable triyne (or tetrayne) substrate are shown to react with in situ generated alkynyl copper species. The latter are compatible with the polyyne substrates and two types of chemistries have been achieved: (i) 1‐bromo‐1‐alkynes efficiently undergo net bromoalkynylation of the (unsymmetrical) benzynes and (ii) in situ generated alkynylcopper species give rise to hydroalkynylation products. The regiochemical preferences of these two modes of reaction are complementary to one another with respect to the position of alkynyl substituent in the final products.
Citrullinated Aggrecan Epitopes as Targets of Autoreactive CD4+ T Cells in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Rims Cliff , Uchtenhagen Hannes , Kaplan Mariana J. , Carmona‐Rivera Carmelo , Carlucci Philip , Mikecz Katalin , Markovics Adrienn , Carlin Jeffrey , Buckner Jane H. , James Eddie A.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Recognition of citrullinated antigens such as vimentin, fibrinogen, and α‐enolase is associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Emerging data suggest that the matrix protein aggrecan is also recognized as a citrullinated antigen. This study was undertaken to directly visualize Cit‐aggrecan–specific T cells and characterize them in patients with RA.

Methods

Citrullinated aggrecan peptides with likely DRB1*04:01 binding motifs were predicted using a previously published scanning algorithm. Peptides with detectable binding were assessed for immunogenicity by HLA tetramer staining, followed by single cell cloning. Selectivity for citrullinated peptide was assessed by tetramer staining and proliferation assays. Ex vivo tetramer staining was then performed to assess frequencies of aggrecan‐specific T cells in peripheral blood. Finally, disease association was assessed by comparing T cell frequencies in RA patients and controls and correlating aggrecan‐specific T cells with levels of aggrecan‐specific antibodies.

Results

We identified 6 immunogenic peptides, 2 of which were the predominant T cell targets in peripheral blood. These 2 epitopes were citrullinated at HLA binding residues and shared homologous sequences. RA patients had significantly higher frequencies of Cit‐aggrecan–specific T cells than healthy subjects. Furthermore, T cell frequencies were significantly correlated with antibodies against citrullinated aggrecan.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that T cells that recognize citrullinated aggrecan are present in patients with RA and correlate with antibodies that target this same antigen. Consequently, aggrecan‐specific T cells and antibodies are potentially relevant markers that could be used to monitor patients with RA or at‐risk subjects.
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in the setting of HELLP Syndrome
Authors: Sarkissian Sarmen , Khan Yasir , Farrell Daniel , Constable David , Brem Elizabeth
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical Message

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a life‐threatening hyper activation of the immune system. Rare cases associated with HELLP syndrome and other similar conditions in pregnancy have been reported. Despite the improved survival rates with etoposide and dexamethasone‐based regimens, HLH remains a challenging disease. Experience in pregnant patients is exceedingly rare.
Recanalization of bilateral axillaris/brachialis artery occlusion in a patient with Takayashu arteritis: First case report on using a novel drug‐coated nitinol “chocolate” balloon catheter
Authors: Leigh Mariatu Binta , Kor Samad , Czantrak Petar , Sacirovic Mesud , Pagonas Nikolaos , Hillmeister Philipp , Zeidler Gabriele , Bramlage Peter , Buschmann Ivo
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical Message

When fibrosis develops in Takayasu arteritis (TA), endovascular treatment may become necessary. A 63‐year‐old woman with TA underwent PTA with a nitinol‐structured (chocolate‐like) drug‐coated balloon (C‐DEB PTA). She remained in remission for >1 year. The case may foster research into the use of C‐DEB PTA in TA.
Laparoscopic repair of the vaginal cuff dehiscence: Dehiscence occurring after the first sexual intercourse after the laparoscopic modified radical hysterectomy
Authors: Suzuki Yukio , Imai Yuichi , Ruiz‐Yokota Naho , Miyagi Etsuko
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical Message

Total vaginal cuff dehiscence (VCD) is an important adverse event after hysterectomy. Here, we showed two cases in whom laparoscopic repair of VCD was successful. This procedure is effective, safe, and thus minimally invasive for patients after hysterectomy.
Analysis and implementation of a new zero current switching flyback inverter
Authors: Arab Ansari Sajad , Moghani Javad Shokrollahi , Mohammadi Mohammad
Published: November 2018

In this paper, a novel zero current switching (ZCS) flyback inverter in discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) is proposed. In the proposed flyback inverter, the ZCS for the primary switch is achieved by adding a simple auxiliary circuit to the conventional flyback inverter. Also, the auxiliary switch is turned on and turned off at ZCS condition. Therefore, the switching losses of the switches are negligible, which increases the efficiency and allows higher switching frequency and more compact design. The resonant auxiliary cell is activated only in short transition times that makes its conduction losses negligible. Furthermore, the voltage overshoot of the main switch is limited during the turn‐off process, which allows utilization of lower voltage metal‐oxide semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MOSFETs) with low conduction losses and low cost. The detailed operation of the flyback inverter with auxiliary circuit and design considerations are presented. Simulation and experimental results are presented to verify the performance of the proposed inverter.
Antenna array techniques for nonuniform cell zooming and adaptive frequency planning
Authors: Lahiry Archiman
Published: November 2018

This paper proposes the antenna array system and the techniques for the nonuniform cell zooming and adaptive frequency planning which is suitable for the energy‐efficient LTE network and multitier 5G heterogeneous network. The antenna array system is designed for the beam width control and scan control in the azimuth plane. The beam tilt is controlled in the elevation plane to control the cell radius. The first feature of the antenna array system is to perform nonuniform sector size control in order to deal with the nonuniform traffic distribution. The second feature of the antenna array system is to control the beam scan in the azimuth plane for the adaptive frequency planning. The footprint control of the current work is evaluated considering the antenna array's radiation pattern and all the physical parameters. Adaptive frequency planning can mitigate cochannel interference (CCI), which may be caused due to the cell zooming techniques proposed in this work. The footprint simulations confirm that the antenna array system can control the sector size with the highest possible flexibility. The antenna array system due to these features can effectively mitigate the interference. The results also confirm that the current antenna array system outperforms the existing antenna array systems.
Means‐end problem solving in infancy: Development, emergence of intentionality, and transfer of knowledge
Authors: Babik Iryna , Cunha Andrea Baraldi , Ross Samantha M. , Logan Samuel W. , Galloway James C. , Lobo Michele A.
Published: November 2018

Behaviors and performance of 23 typically developing infants were assessed longitudinally at 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months in two means‐end tasks: pulling a towel or rotating a turntable to obtain a supported object. With age, infants performed more goal‐directed behaviors, leading to increased problem‐solving success. Intentionality emerged earlier in the towel task than in the turntable task (6.9 vs. 10.8 months). Potential knowledge transfer between the tasks was first observed at 9 months. This study provides insight into the development of means‐end learning, the emergence of intentionality, and potential transfer of knowledge in tasks involving a similar concept (support) but requiring different modes of action for success (pulling vs. rotating).
Beyond the model: expert knowledge improves predictions of species’ fates under climate change
Authors: Reside April E. , Critchell Kay , Crayn Darren M. , Goosem Miriam , Goosem Stephen , Hoskin Conrad J. , Sydes Travis , Vanderduys Eric P. , Pressey Robert L.
Published: November 2018

The need to proactively manage landscapes and species to aid their adaptation to climate change is widely acknowledged. Current approaches to prioritizing investment in species conservation generally rely on correlative models, which predict the likely fate of species under different climate change scenarios. Yet, while model statistics can be improved by refining modeling techniques, gaps remain in understanding the relationship between model performance and ecological reality. To investigate this, we compared standard correlative species distribution models to highly accurate, fine‐scale, distribution models. We critically assessed the ecological realism of each species’ model, using expert knowledge of the geography and habitat in the study area and the biology of the study species. Using interactive software and an iterative vetting with experts, we identified seven general principles that explain why the distribution modeling under‐ or overestimated habitat suitability, under both current and predicted future climates. Importantly, we found that, while temperature estimates can be dramatically improved through better climate downscaling, many models still inaccurately reflected moisture availability. Furthermore, the correlative models did not account for biotic factors, such as disease or competitor species, and were unable to account for the likely presence of micro refugia. Under‐performing current models resulted in widely divergent future projections of species’ distributions. Expert vetting identified regions that were likely to contain micro refugia, even where the fine‐scale future projections of species distributions predicted population losses. Based on the results, we identify four priority conservation actions required for more effective climate change adaptation responses. This approach to improving the ecological realism of correlative models to understand climate change impacts on species can be applied broadly to improve the evidence base underpinning management responses.
Environmental DNA analysis as a non‐invasive quantitative tool for reproductive migration of a threatened endemic fish in rivers
Authors: Maruyama Atsushi , Sugatani Kousuke , Watanabe Kazuki , Yamanaka Hiroki , Imamura Akio
Published: November 2018

Quantitative information regarding reproduction is essential for conserving endangered animals; however, some conventional quantitative methods can be damaging to the target population and their habitats. In the present study, the reproductive migration of a threatened endemic fish, three‐lips (Opsariichthys uncirostris uncirostris), was non‐invasively monitored by quantitative PCR of species‐specific environmental DNA (eDNA), the usefulness of which has been not sufficiently explored. Water sampling and from‐shore visual inspection were performed weekly along a tributary of Lake Biwa (Japan), where adult fish seasonally migrate upstream to reproduce as well as at lake sites near the river mouth. Species‐specific eDNA was collected at all locations at times when the fish were visually observed and at certain sites where the fish were not observed. Log‐transformed individual counts from visual inspection were positively correlated with log‐transformed eDNA concentration in the river sites, indicating that eDNA analysis can be a reliable quantitative tool for fish abundance in rivers. Furthermore, distance from the lake did not influence eDNA concentration, suggesting that eDNA transport by river flow had a negligible effect on eDNA quantification. Both eDNA concentration and individual counts gradually increased from May–July, and decreased in August. Importantly, eDNA analysis showed that the fish occupied more habitats in the peak reproductive season and stayed for longer time at any given site. An additional underwater survey confirmed unexpected eDNA detections as true positives. eDNA analysis has great potential to quantitatively monitor reproductive fish migrations under certain conditions.
Gd‐Based Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as MRI Probes
Authors: Carniato Fabio , Tei Lorenzo , Botta Mauro
Published: November 2018

Over the last decade, a number of GdIII chelates and paramagnetic ions were conjugated or included into mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) and tested as potential magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and theranostic probes. These systems can concentrate a large payload of paramagnetic sites in the region where they localize, thus increasing the sensitivity of the technique. In addition, when attached to the silica surface, the GdIII complexes reduce their rotational tumbling motion, which leads to an improvement of their performance as relaxation agents. In this review, we describe different strategies to confine paramagnetic species into porous silica. The relationship between the structural and dynamic parameters of conjugated Gd complexes on the surface of the MSNs and their effectiveness as relaxation agents is discussed, examining how the magnetic properties of the probes are influenced by the characteristics of the nanoparticles. Special attention is addressed to clarify the effect of silica support, in terms of porosity and surface reactivity, on the relaxometric properties of the final solids. A better understanding of the interactions between the silica nanoparticles and the conjugated GdIII chelate is crucial to design improved nanoprobes for MRI applications.
An Efficient Synthesis of Benzyl Dithiocarbamates by Base‐Promoted Cross‐Coupling Reactions of Benzyl Chlorides with Tetraalkylthiuram Disulfides at Room Temperature
Authors: Wu Zhiyong , Lai Miao , Zhang Siyuan , Zhong Xianyun , Song Hao , Zhao Mingqin
Published: November 2018

A straightforward, mild and efficient protocol for the synthesis of benzyl dithiocarbamates from benzyl chlorides and tetraalkylthiuram disulfides is presented. This protocol is compatible with a wide variety of electron‐donating and ‐withdrawing substituents and enables construction of various dithiocarbamate derivatives from readily available starting materials.
Base/Cryptand/Metal‐Free Automated Nucleophilic Radiofluorination of [18F]FDOPA from Iodonium Salts: Importance of Hydrogen Carbonate Counterion
Authors: Maisonial‐Besset Aurélie , Serre Audrey , Ouadi Ali , Schmitt Sébastien , Canitrot Damien , Léal Fernand , Miot‐Noirault Elisabeth , Brasse David , Marchand Patrice , Chezal Jean‐Michel
Published: November 2018

As evidenced by the number of publications and patents published in the last years, the radiosynthesis of 6‐[18F]fluoro‐3,4‐dihydroxy‐L‐phenylalanine ([18F]FDOPA) using the nucleophilic [18F]F‐ process remains currently a challenge for the radiochemists scientific community even if promising methods for the radiofluorination of electron‐rich aromatic structures were recently developed from arylboronate, arylstannane or iodonium salt precursors. In such context, based on the use of an iodonium triflate salt precursor, we optimized a fast and efficient radiofluorination route fully automated and free from any base, cryptand or metal catalyst for the radiosynthesis of [18F]FDOPA. Using this method, this clinically relevant radiotracer was produced in 64 min, 27–38 % RCY d.c. (n = 5), >99 % RCP, >99 % ee., and high Am 170–230 GBq/µmol. In addition, this optimization study clearly highlighted the important role of a triflate‐hydrogen carbonate counterion exchange during the radiolabeling process to achieve high fluorine‐18 incorporation yields.
Physicochemical property, antioxidant activity, and cytoprotective effect of the germinated soybean proteins
Authors: Gao Chunxia , Wang Fengzhong , Yuan Li , Liu Junyi , Sun Dan , Li Xuyan
Published: November 2018

Appropriate germination can improve the nutritional value and bioactivity of soybeans; however, few studies have assessed the effect of germination on soybean proteins. This study examined the physicochemical property, antioxidation, and cytoprotective effect of the germinated soybean proteins (Gsp). Gsp was extracted from soybeans which germinated for 0–3 days using the method of alkali‐solution and acid‐isolation extraction. The results showed that germination could digest soybean proteins into the smaller molecules; enhance the degree of hydrolysis, emulsifiability, and foaming capacity; increase the removal rate of ABTS, DPPH, ˙, and ˙OH radical; and decrease the reducing power and lipid peroxidation of Gsp. Additionally, Gsp was able to protect HL‐7702 human hepatocyte cells against benzo(a)pyrene (BaP)‐induced cytotoxicity through mediating the cell cycle arrest, suppressing apoptosis, and increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. This work demonstrated that germination could enhance the physicochemical property and antioxidant activity of Gsp, which also displayed the remarkable cytoprotective effect. This study provided a fundamental basis for substantiating dietary of Gsp used for resistance to oxidation and hepatic injury.
Volatility information implied in the term structure of VIX
Authors: Chang Kai‐Jiun , Hung Mao‐Wei , Wang Yaw‐Huei , Yen Kuang‐Chieh
Published: November 2018

This study uses multiple maturity‐independent variables to examine whether the volatility information implied in the term structure of volatility index can improve the prediction of realized volatility. The empirical results for the S&P 500 index show that, in terms of both the in‐sample estimation and out‐of‐sample forecasting, the term structure variables provide substantial incremental contribution to the models with only level variables. Our empirical results are robust to various forms of volatility, alternative ways to develop the term structure variable, the impact of macroeconomic variables, and alternative underlying assets.
Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy of the jaw bones: Update on the factors influencing survival and recurrence
Authors: Pontes Flavia Sirotheau Correa , de Souza Lucas Lacerda , Uchôa Daniel Cavalléro Colares , Joaquim Andrea Maia Correa , do Nascimento Liliane Silva , da Mata Rezende Diogo dos Santos , Pontes Hélder Antônio Rebelo
Published: November 2018

The aim of the present study was to integrate the available data published on melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) of the jaw bones. An electronic search was undertaken in April 2018. Hundred forty‐seven publications and 371 patients were included. The lesion was more prevalent in males and in the second to sixth months of life. The lesions mostly presented as a rapidly growing bluish swelling and the most commonly involved was the anterior maxilla. The mean follow‐up was 51.1 months (range 1‐408 months). Age (P ≤ .0001), location (P = .007), occurrence of lymph node metastasis (P ≤ .0001), treatment (P = .001), recurrence (P ≤ .0001), and distant metastasis (P = .0001) were independently associated with survival. Recurrence was significantly correlated with age (P = .0001), distant metastasis (P = .0001), and treatment (P = .0001). Patients older than 12 months, with lesions in the mandible, positive regional lymph node metastasis, treated with chemotherapy, recurrence, or distant metastasis presented the worst prognosis.
Getting the right fit: Convergence between preferred and perceived involvement in treatment decision making among medical oncology outpatients
Authors: Mansfield Elise , Bryant Jamie , Carey Mariko , Turon Heidi , Henskens Frans , Grady Alice
Published: November 2018

Background and Aims

While cancer patients' preferences for their level of involvement in treatment decision making (TDM) vary, previous research indicates a large proportion of patients are not experiencing TDM that meets their preferences. Evidence is needed to identify the characteristics of cancer patients who are less likely to report experiencing their preferred level of involvement in TDM, so that appropriate decision‐making support can be provided to them. We examined in a sample of medical oncology outpatients (1) the level of agreement between preferred and perceived involvement in TDM and (2) demographic, psychological, disease, and treatment characteristics associated with having unmet preferences for involvement in TDM.

Methods and Results

Cancer patients from three medical oncology treatment centers in Australia completed surveys assessing demographic, disease and treatment variables, psychological distress, and preferred and perceived involvement in TDM. Data were collected between February 2013 and December 2014. Factors associated with having unmet TDM preferences were examined using logistic regression. There were 355 patients included in the analysis (75% response rate). The mean age (±SD) of the participants was 61 (±12), and 45% were male. Overall, 60% of participants reported that their preferences for involvement in TDM were met. No demographic, psychological, disease, or treatment characteristics were significantly associated with an increased probability of not having TDM preferences met.

Conclusions

In line with previous research, a large proportion (40%) of patients reported TDM experiences that were not in alignment with their preferences. Future research should explore additional characteristics that are associated with a lower likelihood of having TDM preferences met.
Investigation of survival and migration potential of differentiated cardiomyocytes transplanted with decellularized heart scaffold
Authors: Akbay Esin , Onur Mehmet Ali
Published: November 2018

Mesenchymal stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes are employed as a source for myocardial cell transplantation as well as for tissue engineering in decellularized tissue scaffolds. The present study aimed at investigating the survival and migration potential of differentiated cardiomyocytes integrated to decellularized scaffolds after implantation into retroperitoneum of rats, and to assess the feasibility of their ectopic use for future cardiovascular tissue engineering. For this purpose, adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (AdMSCs) were first isolated. Cells were labeled by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). Decellularized cardiac tissue scaffolds were acquired by application of ionic and non‐ionic detergents and the labeled differentiated cells were seeded onto these tested decellularized scaffolds. After 1, 2, and 4 weeks of implantation, either cell free scaffold (CFS) or cell scaffold (CS) composites were examined by various techniques for ectopic migration potential of the implanted cells and interaction between the seeded cells on scaffolds. Throughout the first and second weeks of implantation, positively stained cells were observed in renal tissue samples. Observations, for cardiomyocytes‐specific gene expression during weeks 1, 2, and 4, showed potential increased over each time period. A reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) results revealed an increased interaction between cells seeded on scaffolds, however CFS test groups showed no significant difference in gene expression. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 561–570, 2019.