bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined swept region and intersection‐based single‐material remapping method
Authors: Klima Matej , Kucharik Milan , Shashkov Mikhail
Published: April 2017

A typical arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian algorithm consists of a Lagrangian step, where the computational mesh moves with the fluid flow; a rezoning step, where the computational mesh is smoothed and repaired in case it gets too distorted; and a remapping step, where all fluid quantities are conservatively interpolated on this new mesh. In single‐material simulations, the remapping process can be represented in a flux form, with fluxes approximated by integrating a reconstructed function over intersections of neighboring computational cells on the original and rezoned computational mesh. This algorithm is complex and computationally demanding – Therefore, a simpler approach that utilizes regions swept by the cell edges during rezoning is often used in practice. However, it has been observed that such simplification can lead to distortion of the solution symmetry, especially when the mesh movement is not bound by such symmetry.

For this reason, we propose an algorithm combining both approaches in a similar way that was proposed for multi‐material remapping (two‐step hybrid remap). Intersections and exact integration are employed only in certain parts of the computational mesh, marked by a switching function – Various different criteria are presented in this paper. The swept‐based method is used elsewhere in areas that are not marked. This way, our algorithm can retain the beneficial symmetry‐preserving capabilities of intersection‐based remapping while keeping the overall computational cost moderate.
Optimisation of the TBM drive at the Boßler Tunnel using the observation method and an incremental design and contract development process
Authors: Schubert Peter , Joham Kurt , Bauer Manfred
Published: April 2017

The 8.8 km long Boßler Tunnel was tendered in 2012 as a NATM tunnel, although a variant with a tunnel boring machine (TBM) was permitted for the first 2,800 m of the tunnel from the north side. The joint venture Tunnel Albaufstieg ATA won the contract in a negotiation process with the variant TBM for the first 2,800 m. Out of the conviction that a large part of the Boßler Tunnel should be feasible for a TBM, the ATA made an optimisation proposal, according to which extensive additional investigation should be undertaken in the preceding NATM tunnel and to demonstrate the feasibility of extended TBM operation. This concept was successively implemented, with a 55 m deep investigation shaft being sunk and a 20 m long investigation tunnel excavated. The investigations brought the hoped‐for improved estimation of the rock mass behaviour and finally convinced all those responsible for the project (client and the contractor) that a TBM drive along the entire length of the tunnel was feasible. This procedure demanded extreme flexibility from all parties involved since the design work mostly had to be undertaken at the last minute.
Intramembranous processing by γ‐secretase regulates reverse signaling of ephrin‐B2 in migration of microglia
Authors: Kemmerling Nadja , Wunderlich Patrick , Theil Sandra , Linnartz‐Gerlach Bettina , Hersch Nils , Hoffmann Bernd , Heneka Michael T. , de Strooper Bart , Neumann Harald , Walter Jochen
Published: April 2017

The Eph‐ephrin system plays pivotal roles in cell adhesion and migration. The receptor‐like functions of the ephrin ligands allow the regulation of intracellular processes via reverse signaling. γ‐Secretase mediated processing of ephrin‐B has previously been linked to activation of Src, a kinase crucial for focal adhesion and podosome phosphorylation. Here, we analyzed the role of γ‐secretase in the stimulation of reverse ephrin‐B2 signaling in the migration of mouse embryonic stem cell derived microglia. The proteolytic generation of the ephrin‐B2 intracellular domain (ICD) by γ‐secretase stimulates Src and focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Inhibition of γ‐secretase decreased the phosphorylation of Src and FAK, and reduced cell motility. These effects were associated with enlargement of the podosomal surface. Interestingly, expression of ephrin‐B2 ICD could rescue these effects, indicating that this proteolytic fragment mediates the activation of Src and FAK, and thereby regulates podosomal dynamics in microglial cells. Together, these results identify γ‐secretase as well as ephrin‐B2 as regulators of microglial migration.
Brain structure and organization five decades after childhood onset epilepsy
Authors: Garcia‐Ramos Camille , Bobholz Sam , Dabbs Kevin , Hermann Bruce , Joutsa Juho , Rinne Juha O. , Karrasch Mira , Prabhakaran Vivek , Shinnar Shlomo , Sillanpää Matti ,   TACOE Study Group
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this project was to characterize brain structure and organization in persons with active and remitted childhood onset epilepsy 50 years after diagnosis compared with healthy controls. Participants from a population‐based investigation of uncomplicated childhood onset epilepsy were followed up 5 decades later. Forty‐one participants had a history of childhood onset epilepsy (mean age of onset = 5.2 years, current chronological age = 56.0 years) and were compared with 48 population‐based controls (mean age = 55.9 years). Of the epilepsy participants, 8 had persisting active epilepsy and in 33 the epilepsy had remitted. All participants underwent 3T MRI with subsequent vertex analysis of cortical volume, thickness, surface area and gyral complexity. In addition, cortical and subcortical volumes, including regions of the frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes, and subcortical structures including amygdala, thalamus, and hippocampus, were analyzed using graph theory techniques. There were modest group differences in traditional vertex‐based analyses of cortical volume, thickness, surface area and gyral index, as well as across volumes of subcortical structures, after correction for multiple comparisons. Graph theory analyses revealed suboptimal topological structural organization with enhanced network segregation and reduced global integration in the epilepsy participants compared with controls, these patterns significantly more extreme in the active epilepsy group. Furthermore, both groups with epilepsy presented a greater number of higher Z‐score regions in betweenness centrality (BC) than lower Z‐score regions compared with controls. Also, contrary to the group with remitted epilepsy, patients with active epilepsy presented most of their high BC Z‐score regions in subcortical areas including the amygdala, thalamus, hippocampus, pallidum, and accumbens. Overall, this population‐based investigation of long term outcome (5 decades) of childhood onset epilepsy reveals persisting abnormalities, especially when examined by graph theoretical measurements, and provides new insights into the very long‐term outcomes of active and remitted epilepsy. Hum Brain Mapp 38:3289–3299, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systematic review of mammary analog secretory carcinoma of salivary glands at 7 years after description
Authors: Khalele Bacem A.
Published: April 2017

Background

Mammary analog secretory carcinoma of the salivary glands (MASCSG) is a newly introduced malignant tumor of the salivary glands. For decades, it has been confused with acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) of the salivary glands.

Methods

All reported cases of MASCSG were surveyed from 2010 until January 2017. The collected data was compiled and computationally processed to describe the clinical parameters of MASCSG. Its epidemiology was also mapped. Moreover, inaccurate data was highlighted.

Results

Clinically implicating, this article tackles simply the several clinical findings of MASCSG so that our contemporary nosology, at 7 years after description, can be updated. The cytogenetic, histologic, and immunohistochemical details are also defined.

Conclusion

The available data about MASCSG is sufficient enough to diagnose it with no need to investigate the ETV6‐NTRK3 translocation. Although high‐grade malignancy and distant metastases were rarely reported, a rapt attention should be paid both to the nature of this tumor and to the indicated close follow‐up of such cases, especially when necrosis, increased mitotic activity, and other classic caveats are conspicuous. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 1243–1248, 2017
Whole transcriptome profiling of the human hippocampus suggests an involvement of the KIBRA rs17070145 polymorphism in differential activation of the MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Piras Ignazio S , Krate Jonida , Schrauwen Isabelle , Corneveaux Jason J , Serrano Geidy E , Sue Lucia , Beach Thomas G , Huentelman Matthew J
Published: April 2017

The rs17070145‐T variant of the WWC1 gene, coding for the KIBRA protein, has been associated with both increased episodic memory performance and lowered risk for late onset Alzheimer's disease, although the mechanism behind this protective effect has not been completely elucidated. To achieve a better understanding of the pathways modulated by rs17070145 and its associated functional variant(s), we used laser capture microdissection (LCM) and RNA‐sequencing to investigate the effect of rs17070145 genotypes on whole transcriptome expression in the human hippocampus (HP) of 22 neuropathologically normal individuals, with a specific focus on the dentate gyrus (DG) and at the pyramidal cells (PC) of CA1 and CA3 sub‐regions. Differential expression analysis of RNA‐seq data within the HP based on the rs17070145 genotype revealed an overexpression of genes involved in the MAPK signaling pathway, potentially driven by the T/T genotype. The most important contribution comes from genes dysregulated within the DG region. Other genes significantly dysregulated, and not involved in the MAPK pathway (Adj P < 0.01 and Fold Change > |1.00|) were: RSPO4 (HP); ARC, DUSP5, DNAJB5, EGR4, PPP1R15A, WBP11P1, EGR1, GADD45B (DG); CH25H, HSPA1A, HSPA1B, TNFSF9, and NPAS4 (PC). Several evidences suggested that the MAPK signaling pathway is linked with memory and learning processes. In non‐neuronal cells, the KIBRA protein is phosphorylated by ERK1/2 (involved in the MAPK signaling) in cells as well as in vitro. Several of the other dysregulated genes are involved in memory and learning processes, as well as in Alzheimer's Disease. In conclusion, our results suggest that the effect of the WWC1 rs17070145 polymorphism on memory performance and Alzheimer's disease might be due to a differential regulation of the MAPK signaling, a key pathway involved in memory and learning processes.
Clonal evolution detected with conventional cytogenetic analysis is a potent prognostic factor in adult patients with relapsed AML
Authors: Shimizu Hiroaki , Yokohama Akihiko , Ishizaki Takuma , Hatsumi Nahoko , Takada Satoru , Saitoh Takayuki , Sakura Toru , Nojima Yoshihisa , Handa Hiroshi
Published: April 2017

We retrospectively investigated 144 patients with relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) to clarify predisposing factors and the prognostic impact of acquisition of additional cytogenetic abnormalities (ACA) at the first relapse. Additional cytogenetic abnormalities are recognized as clonal evolution at the cytogenetic level. Fifty‐nine patients (41%) acquired ACA at the first relapse. The incidences of ACA acquisition varied depending on cytogenetic abnormalities at initial diagnosis. Multivariate analysis identified t(8;21), complex karyotype, and a duration of fewer than 12 months of complete remission as independent predisposing factors for ACA acquisition. Notably, patients with ACA acquisition showed a significantly lower second complete remission rate compared with those without ACA acquisition (20.0% vs 72.5%, respectively, P < .001). Furthermore, the 3‐year overall survival rates after the first relapse were significantly different between patients with and without ACA acquisition (8.5% vs 36.8%, respectively, P < .001). This prognostic significance was confirmed with multivariate analysis. The hazard ratio of ACA acquisition was similar or higher than reported prognostic factors for relapsed AML patients. These findings suggested that clonal evolution detected with conventional cytogenetic analysis at the first relapse induces severe chemo‐refractory characteristics in AML cells and should be considered as a potent prognostic factor when evaluating accurate prognosis in relapsed AML patients.
Spontaneous lung metastasis formation of human Merkel cell carcinoma cell lines transplanted into scid mice
Authors: Knips Jill , Czech‐Sioli Manja , Spohn Michael , Heiland Max , Moll Ingrid , Grundhoff Adam , Schumacher Udo , Fischer Nicole
Published: April 2017

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer entity that frequently leads to rapid death due to its high propensity to metastasize. The etiology of most MCC cases is linked to Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), a virus which is monoclonally integrated in up to 95% of tumors. While there are presently no animal models to study the role of authentic MCPyV infection on transformation, tumorigenesis or metastasis formation, xenograft mouse models employing engrafted MCC‐derived cell lines (MCCL) represent a promising approach to study certain aspects of MCC pathogenesis. Here, the two MCPyV‐positive MCC cell lines WaGa and MKL‐1 were subcutaneously engrafted in scid mice. Engraftment of both MCC cell lines resulted in the appearance of circulating tumor cells and metastasis formation, with WaGa‐engrafted mice showing a significantly shorter survival time as well as increased numbers of spontaneous lung metastases compared to MKL‐1 mice. Interestingly, explanted tumors compared to parental cell lines exhibit an upregulation of MCPyV sT‐Antigen expression in all tumors, with WaGa tumors showing significantly higher sT‐Antigen expression than MKL‐1 tumors. RNA‐Seq analysis of explanted tumors and parental cell lines furthermore revealed that in the more aggressive WaGa tumors, genes involved in inflammatory response, growth factor activity and Wnt signalling pathway are significantly upregulated, suggesting that sT‐Antigen is the driver of the observed differences in metastasis formation.
Metformin use and survival after non‐small cell lung cancer: A cohort study in the US Military health system
Authors: Lin Jie , Gill Abegail , Zahm Shelia H. , Carter Corey A. , Shriver Craig D. , Nations Joel A. , Anderson William F. , McGlynn Katherine A. , Zhu Kangmin
Published: April 2017

Research suggests that metformin may be associated with improved survival in cancer patients with type II diabetes. This study assessed whether metformin use after non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) diagnosis is associated with overall survival among type II diabetic patients with NSCLC in the U.S. military health system (MHS). The study included 636 diabetic patients with histologically confirmed NSCLC diagnosed between 2002 and 2007, identified from the linked database from the Department of Defense's Central Cancer Registry (CCR) and the Military Health System Data Repository (MDR). Time‐dependent multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the association between metformin use and overall survival during follow‐up. Among the 636 patients, 411 died during the follow‐up. The median follow‐up time was 14.6 months. Increased post‐diagnosis cumulative use (per 1 year of use) conferred a significant reduction in mortality (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 0.76; 95% CI = 0.65–0.88). Further analysis by duration of use revealed that compared to non‐users, the lowest risk reduction occurred among patients with the longest duration of use (i.e. use for more than 2 years) (HR = 0.19; 95% CI = 0.09–0.40). Finally, the reduced mortality was particularly observed only among patients who also used metformin before lung cancer diagnosis and among patients at early stage of diagnosis. Prolonged duration of metformin use in the study population was associated with improved survival, especially among early stage patients. Future research with a larger number of patients is warranted.
Overexpression of Long Non‐Coding RNA MEG3 Inhibits Proliferation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Huh7 Cells via Negative Modulation of miRNA‐664
Authors: He Jin‐Hua , Han Ze‐Ping , Liu Ji‐Ming , Zhou Jia‐Bin , Zou Mao‐Xian , Lv Yu‐Bing , Li Yu‐Guang , Cao Ming‐Rong
Published: April 2017

Evidence is accumulating that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in human tumorigenesis and dysregulated in many cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Because lncRNAs can regulate essential pathways that contribute to tumor initiation and progression with their tissue specificity, lncRNAs are valuable biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3) is a lncRNA overexpressed in HCC cells that inhibits HCC progression, however, the mechanism remains largely unknown. Recently, a novel regulatory mechanism has been proposed in which RNAs can cross‐talk with each other via competing for shared microRNAs (miRNAs). The proposed competitive endogenous RNAs could mediate the bioavailability of miRNAs on their targets, thus imposing another level of post‐transcriptional regulation. In the current study, we demonstrated that MEG3 is down‐regulated in HCC tissues. MEG3 over‐expression imposes another level of post‐transcriptional regulation, whereas MEG3 overexpression increase the expression of the miR‐664 target gene, ADH4, through competitive “sponging” miR‐664. In addition, NF‐κB may affect transcription of MEG3 by directly binding to the promoter region. Our data revealed that NF‐κB may affect the transcript of MEG3. MEG3 overexpression inhibited the proliferation of HCC cells, at least in part by affecting miR‐664mediated regulation of ADH4. Together, these results suggest that MEG3 is a suppressor of tumor which acts in part through “sponging” miR‐664. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3713–3721, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Liposomes as a Putative Tool to Investigate NAADP Signaling in Vasculogenesis
Authors: Di Nezza Francesca , Zuccolo Estella , Poletto Valentina , Rosti Vittorio , De Luca Antonio , Moccia Francesco , Guerra Germano , Ambrosone Luigi
Published: April 2017

Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) is the newest discovered intracellular second messengers, which is able to release Ca2+ stored within endolysosomal (EL) vesicles. NAADP‐induced Ca2+ signals mediate a growing number of cellular functions, ranging from proliferation to muscle contraction and differentiation. Recently, NAADP has recently been shown to regulate angiogenesis by promoting endothelial cell growth. It is, however, still unknown whether NAADP stimulates proliferation also in endothelial progenitor cells, which are mobilized in circulation after an ischemic insult to induce tissue revascularization. Herein, we described a novel approach to prepare NAADP‐containing liposomes, which are highly cell membrane permeable and are therefore amenable for stimulating cell activity. Accordingly, NAADP‐containing liposomes evoked an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration, which was inhibited by NED‐19, a selective inhibitor of NAADP‐induced Ca2+ release. Furthermore, NAADP‐containing liposomes promoted EPC proliferation, a process which was inhibited by NED‐19 and BAPTA, a membrane permeable intracellular Ca2+ buffer. Therefore, NAADP‐containing liposomes stand out as a promising tool to promote revascularization of hypoxic/ischemic tissues by favoring EPC proliferation. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3722–3729, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
All‐Trans Retinoic Acid Ameliorates Arsenic‐Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in the Rat Uterus by Modulating MAPK Signaling Proteins
Authors: Chatterjee Aniruddha , Chatterji Urmi
Published: April 2017

Exposure to arsenic leads to inhibition of the anti‐oxidant defense mechanism of the body. Reactive oxygen species generated in response to arsenic causes reproductive failures in exposed females and also acts as an inducer of apoptosis. As a prospective remedial agent, all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) was assessed for reversing arsenic‐induced oxidative stress and apoptosis. Rats exposed to arsenic for 28 days were allowed to recover naturally or were treated simultaneously with ATRA for 28 days or up to 56 days. Production of H2O2 was detected using 2′,7′‐dichlorfluorescein diacetate (DCFCA) by flow cytometry. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, ALT, and AST were estimated by biochemical assays and Western blot analyses. Detection of apoptosis was performed using annexin V‐FITC/propidium iodide. Expressions of p53, p21, cleaved caspase 3, JNK/pJNK, and ERK/pERK levels were estimated using Western blot analysis. Elemental arsenic deposition in the rat uterus and liver was estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Our results confirmed that ATRA ameliorated sodium arsenite‐induced ROS generation, restored redox balance, and prevented apoptosis. Concomitant recovery was observed to be more prominent for ATRA‐treated rats as compared to the rats that were allowed to recover naturally for 56 days. Tissue arsenic deposition was significantly reduced in the uterus upon continuous ATRA treatment. The results revealed that ATRA reversed arsenic‐induced free radical generation, activated the anti‐oxidant defence system, and subsequently repressed p53‐dependent apoptosis through inhibition of the MAPK signaling components. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3796–3809, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A theoretical investigation on doping superalkali for triggering considerable nonlinear optical properties of Si12C12 nanostructure
Authors: Lin Zhifeng , Lu Tian , Ding Xun‐Lei
Published: April 2017

In this work, we designed a series of superalkali‐doped Si12C12 nanocage M3O@Si12C12 (M = Li, Na, K) with donor–acceptor framework. Density functional theory calculations demonstrated that the HOMO–LUMO gap of the complexes conspicuously narrowed with increase of atomic number of the alkali metal, the value decreased from 5.452 eV of pure Si12C12 nanocage to 3.750, 2.984, and 2.634 eV of Li3O@Si12C12, Na3O@Si12C12, and K3O@Si12C12, respectively. This finding shows that the pristine Si12C12 cluster could be transformed to n‐type semiconductor by introduction of the superalkali M3O. We also showed that the superalkali doping remarkably enhanced the first hyperpolarizability of Si12C12. Among the studied systems, K3O@Si12C12 not only has the narrowest gap but also has the strongest nonlinear optical (NLO) properties, its first hyperpolarizability reached as high as 21695 a.u. The striking results presented in this work will be beneficial for potential applications of the Si12C12‐based nanostructure in the electronic nanodevices and high‐performance NLO materials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A quantitative method for the determination of bosutinib in human plasma using high‐performance liquid chromatography and ultraviolet detection
Authors: Sumimoto Takahiro , Nakahara Ryosuke , Sato Yuhki , Itoh Hiroki
Published: April 2017

Background

We propose a simple, sensitive, and fast high‐performance liquid chromatography ultraviolet detection (HPLC‐UV) method for the quantitative determination of bosutinib in human plasma.

Methods

Plasma samples were processed using an Oasis hydrophilic‐lipophilic balance extraction cartridge (1 mL, 30 mg). Bosutinib and the internal standard imatinib were separated using a mobile phase of 0.5% Na2PO4H2O (pH 3.5)‐acetonitrile‐methanol (55:25:20, v/v/v) on a CAPCELL PAK C18 MG II reversed‐phase column 250 nm×4.6 nm i.d., at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, with ultraviolet detection at 250 nm.

Results

The calibration curve exhibited linearity over the bosutinib concentration range of 25‐1500 ng/mL at 250 nm, with coefficient of variation for intraday precision of 2.42%, 6.04%, and 1.11% for 100, 250, and 1500 ng/mL, respectively, of bosutinib. The lower limit of detection was 20 ng/mL. The extraction recovery rates for bosutinib ranged from 84.36% to 85.82%. The intra‐ and interday precision was below 8.7%, and the accuracy ranged from −5.95% to 5.85% over the linear range. No notable matrix effects or astaticism were observed.

Conclusion

The proposed HPLC‐UV method was successfully applied as an assay to detect bosutinib in human plasma.
Impact of microRNA‐375 and its target gene SMAD‐7 polymorphism on susceptibility of colorectal cancer
Authors: Shaker Olfat Gamil , Mohammed Shereen Rashad , Mohammed Asmaa Mohammed , Mahmoud Zeinab
Published: April 2017

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high morbidity and mortality. Many studies reported that mir‐375 is frequently down‐regulated in many cancers including esophageal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, breast cancer and leukemias.

Aim

Our aim was to study the expression of microRNA‐375 and its target gene SMAD‐7 polymorphisms (rs4939827) in CRC patients in comparison to control subjects and to correlate these results with clinical data of patients to elucidate their role in pathogenesis and early diagnosis of CRC.

Material and methods

The present study was conducted on 122 subjects divided into 86 patients with CRC and 36 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. The followings were done to all subjects: full history taking, full clinical examination, complete blood picture, serum (ALT, AST), serum albumin, CEA, TLC, PLT, and creatinine. Gene expression of miRNA‐375 from serum was done by real‐time PCR. Gene polymorphism SNPs of SMAD7 (rs4939827) was also done in DNA extracted from blood by real‐time PCR.

Results

As regards the polymorphism of SMAD7, we found that CC (wild) genotype has high percentage in controls compared to CRC cases (36.1% vs 15.1%). Meanwhile, the mutant and heterozygotes genotypes showed high percentage among cases compared to controls (33.7%, and 51.2% respectively) vs (22.2%, and 41.7% respectively) with no significant statistical analysis. There was a statistically significant high T‐allelic frequency among cases and C‐allelic frequency among controls. There was a statistically significant association between fold change in micro RNA (‐375) and the susceptibility to CRC as there is down‐regulation of the microRNA‐375 in CRC group with fold change in 0.42±0.27.

Conclusion

Micro RNA‐375 and rs4939827 SNP in SMAD7 could be considered as potential markers for detecting and early diagnosing CRC patients.
RHD alleles among pregnant women with serologic discrepant weak D phenotypes from a multiethnic population and risk of alloimmunization
Authors: Bub Carolina Bonet , Aravechia Maria Giselda , Costa Thiago Henrique , Kutner José Mauro , Castilho Lilian
Published: April 2017

Background

A considerable number of RHD alleles responsible for weak and partial D phenotypes have been identified. Serologic determination of these phenotypes is often doubtful and makes genetic analysis of RHD gene highly desirable in transfusion recipients and pregnant women. We analyzed the RHD gene in a cohort of pregnant women with doubtful D phenotypes.

Methods

RHD genotyping was performed on 104 cases with D typing discrepancies or with history of serologic weak D phenotype. Laboratory‐developed DNA tests, RHD BeadChip (Bioarray Solutions, Immucor), and sequencing were used to identify the RHD alleles.

Results

Molecular analyses showed 23 of 104 (22%) pregnant women were RHD*weak D types 1, 2, or 3 and not at risk for anti‐D. Fifty‐one (49%) were RHD*weak partial 4.0, 6 RHD*weak D type 38 (6%), 1 RHD*weak D type 45 (1%), 1 RHD*weak D type 67 (1%), and potentially at risk for being alloimmunized and making anti‐D. Partial D was identified in 22 of 104 (21%) patients and definitively at risk for anti‐D.

Discussion

Appropriate classification of RhD phenotypes is recommended for correct indication of RhIG in pregnant women. However, the serologic distinction between RhD‐negative and RhD‐positive phenotypes is a difficult task in the case of D variants due to the variations in serologic testing. Our results show a great variability in RHD variant alleles in pregnant women from this population of high admixture. According to these results, 78% of these obstetric patients are at risk for anti‐D and candidates for RhIG.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Amide Compounds Containing Pyrazole Mandelic Acid Groups
Authors: Xie Yan , Ruan Xiang‐Hui , Gong Hua‐Yu , Wang Yi‐Hui , Wang Xiao‐Bin , Zhang Ju‐Ping , Li Qin , Xue Wei
Published: April 2017

A series of novel mandelic acid pyrazole amide compounds were synthesized and characterized. Moreover, their antiviral activities against tobacco mosaic virus were evaluated. The bioassay results indicated that as‐prepared compounds showed antiviral activity against tobacco mosaic virus at a concentration of 500 g/mL. The curative activity of compound 4g is 59.5%, which was comparable with positive control (Ningnanmycin, 61.0%). The inactivation activity of the compound 4l exhibited 80.1%, which was higher than that of Ningnanmycin (75.0%), and its protective activity was 88.7%, which is comparable with that of Ningnanmycin (90.7%).
FRET‐based Fluorescent and Colorimetric Probe for Selective Detection of Hg(II) and Cu(II) with Dual‐mode
Authors: Luo Xue , He Xu‐Dong , Zhao Yuan‐Chao , Chen Chong , Chen Biao , Wu Zhi‐Bing , Wang Pei‐Yi
Published: April 2017

A dual‐function fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)‐based fluorescent and colorimetric probe was rationally fabricated from an energy donor coumarin moiety and an energy acceptor rhodamine moiety linked by a thiohydrazide arm for selective detection of Hg2+ and Cu2+. Two distinct mechanisms were used for the selective detection. Results revealed that probe 1 showed high fluorescent selectivity towards Hg2+ and evident colorimetric selectivity for Cu2+, which was suitable for ‘naked‐eye’ detection.
Instantaneous and Selective Bare Eye Detection of Inorganic Fluoride Ion by Coumarin–Pyrazole‐Based Receptors
Authors: Jain Anshu , Gupta Ragini , Agarwal Madhu
Published: April 2017

A series of rationally designed coumarin–pyrazole‐based scaffolds, equipped with N―H and C―H hydrogen bond donors (R1–R5) and containing various electron‐withdrawing groups at key positions, are synthesized and characterized in order to investigate their inorganic fluoride binding properties in highly competitive media (1:1 DMSO–water). Only one, 3‐{4‐[(2,4‐dinitrophenyl)‐hydrazonomethyl]‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl}‐chromen‐2‐one (R1), of the five compounds synthesized, is found to be capable to selectively detect inorganic fluoride via naked eye amongst other anionic species in aqueous media. Qualitative and spectroscopic studies exhibit that receptor R1 has the potential of showing instantaneous change of color from yellow to pink upon addition of sodium fluoride (0.95 ppm) in aqueous media, at concentration lower than that recommended by World Health Organization (1 ppm). Intensity of color increases with increasing fluoride concentration till 5 ppm, beyond which intensity of color change becomes saturated. This has established the applicability of this receptor for assessment of the level of fluoride in water. Anion binding studies carried out by UV–visible titration portrayed substantial bathochromic peak shift from 410 to 495 nm, upon addition of varying concentrations of aqueous sodium fluoride solution, which has validated the color change. Jobs plot data confirmed 1:1 stoichiometry between R1 and fluoride ion. 1H‐NMR investigation reveals that the deprotonation of N―H hydrogen donor group of receptor R1 and its interaction with fluoride ion is responsible for the observed color change.
Simultaneous determination of 106 pesticides in nuts by LC–MS/MS using freeze‐out combined with dispersive solid‐phase extraction purification
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Gong Zhiguo , Zhang Tingting , Feng Shun , Wang Jide , Zhang Yi
Published: April 2017

As a result of the low water content and high fat matrices in nuts, it is very difficult to simultaneously determine multi‐pesticides in trace levels. Here, a sample pretreatment method was developed in which, microwave‐assisted solvent extraction was firstly used to extract pesticides, and then a two‐step cleanup method was conducted combining freeze‐out with dispersive solid‐phase extraction to remove the lipidic matrix. By this way, 106 pesticides were simultaneously determined in the complicated nut sample by using an ultra‐high pressure liquid chromatography coupled with a tandem mass spectrometer. Average recoveries were 75.3–119.3% with relative standard deviations < 14% at three concentration levels. The limits of detection and quantification were in the ranges of 0.3–3.0 and 1.0–10.0 μg/kg, respectively. Furthermore, the method was successfully applied to the determination of pesticides in 180 commercial nut samples.
Social distance between local residents and African–American expatriates in the context of Ghana's slavery‐based heritage tourism
Authors: Yankholmes Aaron , Timothy Dallen J.
Published: April 2017

This paper explores the social distance between local residents and African–Americans who have settled in Ghana since the 1960s. Data generated from in‐depth interviews suggest the African–American expatriates felt their proximity to collective slave memory or particularly slavery heritage conferred on them certain rights to exclude local residents who are more susceptible to forgetting the past. By appropriating traces of the past, the African–American expatriates provide a range of tourism services, albeit to visitors they believed subscribed to socially constructed meanings elicited at slave sites. The study suggests explicit recognition of African–American expatriates in the levels of contestations that result from slavery‐based heritage tourism.
Survey and analysis design for wood turtle population monitoring
Authors: Brown Donald J. , Cochrane Madaline M. , Moen Ron A.
Published: April 2017

Population monitoring is a fundamental component of wildlife management, and is necessary to track site‐ and regional‐level status and recovery of species of conservation concern. The wood turtle (Glyptemys insculpta) is a species of conservation concern for federal and state agencies because of population declines across the species’ range. We developed and tested a survey and analysis design to assist agencies in the Upper Midwest, USA, with establishment of long‐term monitoring programs for wood turtle populations. In spring of 2016, we conducted 8 replicate population surveys at 8 candidate long‐term monitoring sites in northeastern Minnesota, USA. Using field survey data and simulation models, we assessed the influence of distance from river surveyed, number of survey replications, and number of sites on abundance estimates; we also delineated important survey covariates and compared demographic estimates based on distance from river surveyed. We estimated site‐level abundances and compared survey designs using a multinomialN‐mixture model that included a removal sampling observation process. Mean abundance estimates were similar when surveying 2 transects (i.e., the river‐land interface to ∼25 m inland) or 4 transects (i.e., the river‐land interface to ∼55 m inland), but decreasing the survey distance from river reduced the precision of estimates. Mean abundance estimates were similar with ≥6 replications. Air temperature was an important predictor of survey‐specific detection probability, with maximum detectability at 19−23°C. Sex ratio and mean carapace length did not differ based on whether we surveyed 2 or 4 transects, and percentage of individuals by size class was nearly identical between the sampling designs. Simulations indicated that 75% of mean abundance estimates were within ±8% of true abundance when ≥15 sites were surveyed. The wood turtle survey and analysis design we developed and tested was effective for estimating abundance of wood turtle populations in northeastern Minnesota, and we encourage its use as a template for wood turtle monitoring programs in the Upper Midwest. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Self‐Organization of Hyperbranched Polyesters Functionalized with Pyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinoline End Groups and Their Fluorescent Recognition of Anthracene and Pyrene
Authors: Zeng Fanyang , Jiang Yuliang , Wang Bingxiang , Mao Chun , Han Qiaorong , Ma Zhenye
Published: April 2017

The structurally controllable hyperbranched aromatic–aliphatic copolyesters HBPE‐MPICB4 and HBPE‐MPICB2 are synthesized by incorporating the periphery of a second‐generation hyperbranched polyester (HBPE) with methylpyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinoline‐1‐carbonitrile(E)‐4‐oxo‐[2‐(oxo‐λ3‐methyl)hydrazinyl]but‐2‐enoate (MPICB) groups via one‐pot synthesis. Organized supramolecular structures are self‐assembled in different organic media. Lamellar structure with a length of around 10 µm can be obtained in ethyl acetate. However, the identical HBPE‐MPICB4 and HBPE‐MPICB2 building blocks can self‐organize into flower‐like and vesicular structure in ethanol, with particle sizes around 12 and 5 µm, respectively. The noncovalent interactions of HBPE‐MPICB4 and HBPE‐MPICB2, that is, hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking, are critical for the construction of organized structures. Furthermore, host–guest recognitions by HBPE‐MPICB4 and HBPE‐MPICB2 are investigated by fluorescence studies. The results indicate that HBPE‐MPICB4 microflowers respond selectively to anthracene and pyrene through π–π stacking interactions.

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A unified method for boundedness in fully parabolic chemotaxis systems with signal‐dependent sensitivity
Authors: Mizukami Masaaki , Yokota Tomomi
Published: April 2017

This paper deals with the Keller–Segel system
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201600399:mana201600399-math-0001where Ω is a bounded domain in with smooth boundary , ; χ is a nonnegative function satisfying for some and . In the case that and , Fujie established global existence of bounded solutions under the condition . On the other hand, when , Winkler asserted global existence of bounded solutions for arbitrary . However, there is a gap in the proof. Recently, Fujie tried modifying the proof; nevertheless it also has a gap. It seems to be difficult to show global existence of bounded solutions for arbitrary . Moreover, the condition for K when cannot connect with the condition when . The purpose of the present paper is to obtain global existence and boundedness under more natural and proper condition for χ and to build a mathematical bridge between the cases and .
Cost‐effectiveness of focused ultrasound, radiosurgery, and DBS for essential tremor
Authors: Ravikumar Vinod K. , Parker Jonathon J. , Hornbeck Traci S. , Santini Veronica E. , Pauly Kim Butts , Wintermark Max , Ghanouni Pejman , Stein Sherman C. , Halpern Casey H.
Published: April 2017

Background

Essential tremor remains a very common yet medically refractory condition. A recent phase 3 study demonstrated that magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy significantly improved upper limb tremor. The objectives of this study were to assess this novel therapy's cost‐effectiveness compared with existing procedural options.

Methods

Literature searches of magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy, DBS, and stereotactic radiosurgery for essential tremor were performed. Pre‐ and postoperative tremor‐related disability scores were collected from 32 studies involving 83 magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound thalamotomies, 615 DBSs, and 260 stereotactic radiosurgery cases. Utility, defined as quality of life and derived from percent change in functional disability, was calculated; Medicare reimbursement was employed as a proxy for societal cost. Medicare reimbursement rates are not established for magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy for essential tremor; therefore, reimbursements were estimated to be approximately equivalent to stereotactic radiosurgery to assess a cost threshold. A decision analysis model was constructed to examine the most cost‐effective option for essential tremor, implementing meta‐analytic techniques.

Results

Magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy resulted in significantly higher utility scores compared with DBS (P <0.001) or stereotactic radiosurgery (P <0.001). Projected costs of magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy were significantly less than DBS (P <0.001), but not significantly different from radiosurgery.

Conclusions

Magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy is cost‐effective for tremor compared with DBS and stereotactic radiosurgery and more effective than both. Even if longer follow‐up finds changes in effectiveness or costs, focused ultrasound thalamotomy will likely remain competitive with both alternatives. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The development and validation of static and adaptive screeners to measure the severity of panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder
Authors: Sunderland Matthew , Batterham Philip J. , Calear Alison L. , Carragher Natacha
Published: April 2017

A series of static and adaptive screeners for panic disorder, social anxiety disorder (SAD), and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) were developed and compared using data‐driven methods to facilitate the measurement of each disorder in community samples. Data comprised 3175 respondents for the development sample and 3755 respondents for the validation sample, recruited independently using Facebook advertising. Item Response Theory (IRT) was utilized to develop static continuous screeners and to simulate computerized adaptive algorithms. The screeners consisted of a small subset of items from each bank (79% reduction in items for panic disorder, 85% reduction in items for SAD, and 84% reduction in items for OCD) that provided similar scores (r = 0.88–0.96). Both static and adaptive screeners were valid with respect to existing scales that purportedly measure similar constructs (r > 0.70 for panic disorder, r > 0.76 for SAD, and r > 0.68 for OCD). The adaptive scales were able to maintain a higher level of precision in comparison to the static scales and evidenced slightly higher concordance with scores generated by the full item banks. The screeners for panic disorder, SAD, and OCD could be used as a flexible approach to measure and monitor the severity of psychopathology in tailored treatment protocols.
Mehr Unterstützung für Start‐ups
Authors: Götzinger Alissa
Published: April 2017

Der Stifterverband für die deutsche Wissenschaft hat untersucht, wie gut deutsche Hochschulen Existenzgründer unterstützen.
Novel 5‐(Benzo[b]thiophen‐3‐yl)pyridine‐3‐carbaldehyde (BTPA) Functionalization Framework For Modulating Fullerene Electronics
Authors: John Suru V. , De Filippo Christian C. , Silvestrini Simone , Maggini Michele , Iwuoha Emmanuel
Published: April 2017

Through a cycloaddition reaction, fullerene (C60) was derivatized with a novel organic compound 5‐(benzo[b]thiophen‐3‐yl)pyridine‐3‐carbaldehyde to form the processable and stable 3‐(benzo[b]thiophene‐3yl)‐5‐fullero‐1‐methylpyrrolidinepyridine (BTFP) compound. BTFP exhibits close similarities to phenyl‐C61‐butyric‐acid‐methyl‐ester (PCBM) in terms of first reduction potential values (−0.62 and −0.61 V vs. Ag/AgCl, for BTFP and PCBM, respectively) and lowest occupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy level values (3.93 eV in both cases). In chloroform, BTFP exhibits a bathochromic shift in the λmax of BTFP (λmax,BTFP=290 nm and λmax,PCBM=260 nm), owing to the grafted benzo[b]thiophene‐3‐yl)pyridine moiety. Despite the similarity in LUMO (3.93 eV) energy values, BTFP and PCBM differ in their luminescence‐quenching ability. The bathochromic shift in the λmax of BTFP (relative to PCMB) is likely to contribute to improved light absorption of a suitable donor for photovoltaic applications.
Quality Control of Fluorescence Imaging Systems
Authors: Royon Arnaud , Converset Noël
Published: April 2017

We have developed a new tool for the assessment and monitoring of most of the performances of fluorescence microscopes. We believe it can advantageously be integrated in the quality control process of core facilities where a certain level of performance for the end users must be assured.
In Situ Testing of Flexible Electronics
Authors: Gastaldi Dario
Published: April 2017

If you are looking for Peter Gips, Torben Becker, Ulrich Oechsner and Gregor Federau: Analyzing Filiform Corrosion, Optik Photonik 12(2), p. 40, April 2017, please click here: 10.1002/opph.201700008.

Quantitative information is central to the research and development efforts of flexible electronic devices. This article discusses the research of Dario Gastaldi and his group at the Politecnico di Milano, on how the flexible conductive connection between electrical components, known as ‘the interconnect’, has benefited from in situ mechanical testing coupled to the quantitative imaging capabilities of the LEXT OLS4100 and its specialized objectives, which has a design optimized for the 405 nm laser wavelength. The Gastaldi group has generated quantitative evidence to support how interconnect geometry determines device integrity under strain. Such information facilitates numerical modelling systems for optimising the design process. The evolution of crack formation is also followed in more detail, while it has also been shown that plasma treatment of polymer can be detrimental to device strength under strain.
Fabricating the Flexible Future
Authors: Delmdahl Ralph
Published: April 2017

By leveraging the unparalleled pulsed UV‐power of excimer lasers, gossamer‐thin functional foils attached to rigid wafer‐ or panel‐type carriers can be detached with high yield and fast rate, increasing productivity and lowering the costs of manufacturing a new generation of thin and flexible components and devices.
Fusion gene addiction: can tumours be forced to give up the habit?
Authors: Selfe Joanna L , Shipley Janet
Published: April 2017

Fusion of genes in tumours can have oncogenic roles in reprogramming cells through overexpression of oncogenes or the production of novel fusion proteins. A fundamental question in cancer biology is what genetic events are critical for initiation and whether these are also required for cancer progression. In recent work published in The Journal of Pathology, dependency on a fusion protein was addressed using a model of alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas – a sarcoma subtype with frequent fusion of PAX3 and FOXO1 genes that is associated with poor outcome. PAX3–FOXO1 encodes a potent transcription factor that together with MYCN alters the transcriptional landscape of cells. Building on previous work, an inducible model in human myoblast cells was used to show that PAX3–FOXO1 and MYCN can initiate rhabdomyosarcoma development but, contrary to current thinking, tumour recurrences occasionally arose independent of the fusion protein. Further work needs to identify the molecular nature of this independence and assess any relevance in human tumours. Such functional approaches are required together with computational modeling of molecular data to unravel spatial and temporal dependencies on specific genetic events. This may support molecular prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.