bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The development of feeding behavior in wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii)
Authors: Bray Joel , Emery Thompson Melissa , Muller Martin N. , Wrangham Richard W. , Machanda Zarin P.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Primates have an extended period of juvenility before adulthood. Although dietary complexity plays a prominent role in hypotheses regarding the evolution of extended juvenility, the development of feeding behavior is still poorly understood. Indeed, few studies have investigated the timing and nature of feeding transitions in apes, including chimpanzees. We describe general patterns of feeding development in wild chimpanzees and evaluate predictions of the needing‐to‐learn hypothesis.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed 4 years of behavioral data (2010–2013) from 26 immature chimpanzees and 31 adult chimpanzees of the Kanyawara community in Kibale National Park, Uganda. Specifically, we examined milestones of nutritional independence (first consumption of solid food and cessation of suckling) as well as developmental changes in feeding time, diet composition, diet breadth, and ingestion rates.

Results

Chimpanzees first fed on solid food at 5.1 months and, on average, suckled until 4.8 years. Daily feeding time of immature individuals reached adult levels between 4 and 6 years, while diet composition showed minor changes with age. By juvenility (5–10 years), individuals had a complete adult diet breadth. Ingestion rates for five ripe fruit species remained below adult levels until juvenility but continued to show absolute increases into adolescence.

Discussion

Chimpanzees acquired adult‐like patterns on all feeding measures by infancy or juvenility. These data are inconsistent with the needing‐to‐learn hypothesis; moreover, where delays exist, alternatives hypotheses make similar predictions but implicate physical constraints rather than learning as causal factors. We outline predictions for how future studies might distinguish between hypotheses for the evolution of extended juvenility.
CranFlow: An Application for Record‐Taking and Management Through the Brazilian Database on Craniofacial Anomalies
Authors: Volpe‐Aquino Roberta M. , Monlleó Isabella L. , Lustosa‐Mendes Elaine , Mora Amanda F. , Fett‐Conte Agnes C. , Félix Têmis M. , Xavier Ana C. , Tonocchi Rita , Ribeiro Erlane M. , Pereira Rui , Boy da Silva Raquel T. , de Rezende Adriana A. , Cavalcanti Denise P. , Gil‐da‐Silva‐Lopes Vera L.
Published: September 2017

Background

The World Health Organization has recognized the relevance of databases on craniofacial anomalies since . To date, there is no universal standard instrument/database focused on risk factors, clinical and genetic data collection, and follow‐up that enables comparison between different populations and genotype–phenotype correlation. Although studies have shown that specific genes would impact outcomes, knowledge is not sufficient to subsidize cost‐effectiveness strategies for diagnosis, surgical decision, and a multi‐professional approach toward personalized medicine.

Methods

Based on a clinical genetic approach, a Web‐based application named CranFlow—Craniofacial Anomalies: Registration, Flow, and Management has been developed. It prospectively collects clinical and genetic information for the Brazilian Database on Craniofacial Anomalies (syndromic and nonsyndromic orofacial cleft, 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, and other craniofacial related disorders). A comprehensive list of CranFlow's features is provided.

Results

We present preliminary results on 1546 cases already recorded and followed, which allows recognizing 10% of diagnosis changes.

Conclusion

The identification of risk factors, consistent genetic approach associated with clinical data and follow‐up result in valuable information to develop and improve personalized treatment and studies on genotype–phenotype correlation. Adoption of CranFlow in different clinical services may support comparison between populations. This application has the potential to contribute to improvements in healthcare, quality of services, clinical and surgical outcomes, and the standard of living of individuals with craniofacial anomalies. Birth Defects Research 110:72–80, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photocatalyst‐free, Visible Light Driven, Gold Promoted Suzuki Synthesis of (Hetero)biaryls
Authors: Sauer Christopher , Liu Yang , De Nisi Assunta , Protti Stefano , Fagnoni Maurizio , Bandini Marco
Published: September 2017

A visible‐light driven Suzuki cross‐coupling reaction was performed with colored and bench‐stable arylazosulfones in the presence of Ph3PAuCl (5 mol %) as the catalyst. The absence of a photocatalyst, along with the use of commercially available and easy‐to‐handle arylboronic acids underline the novelty and synthetic usefulness of the protocol. A reaction mechanism involving the generation of an aryl radical as the key intermediate has been proposed on the basis of experimental investigations.
In Situ Antisolvent Approach to Hydrangea‐like HCo3O4‐NC@CoNi‐LDH Core@Shell Superstructures for Highly Efficient Water Electrolysis
Authors: Zhang Hao , Tong Yinlin , Xu Jiaying , Lu Qingyi , Gao Feng
Published: September 2017

Highly active, durable, and cost‐effective electrocatalysts for water oxidation are at the center of renewable energy technologies. However, the development of water oxidation catalysts with high activity at low cost remains a great challenge. Herein, an in situ antisolvent approach is reported for synthesizing ultrathin Co–Ni layered double hydroxide (CoNi‐LDH) nanosheets wrapped on hollow Co3O4 nanoparticle‐embedded nitrogen‐doped carbon (HCo3O4‐NC) as a high‐performance catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Although HCo3O4‐NC or NiCo‐LDH alone has little OER activity, their hybrid exhibits low overpotential and Tafel slope as well as high stability, due to the synergistic effect of Co3O4 and LDH. Furthermore, the hydrangea‐like HCo3O4‐NC@NiCo‐LDH core@shell composite exhibits higher catalytic activity and stability than commercial IrO2, which makes it a high‐performance nonprecious‐metal‐based catalyst for OER.
Chiral Inactivation: An Old Phenomenon with a New Twist
Authors: Raskatov Jevgenij A.
Published: September 2017

Mixing of enantiomers of chiral molecules can have remarkable effects on the properties of their higher order assemblies. This, in turn, may have profound impact on both structural and functional outcomes, and has been noted across a wide range of contexts. This account presents key examples from organic, organometallic and bioorganic molecular sciences and showcases that, in disciplines as distinct as asymmetric catalysis and racemic protein crystallography, there is a fundamental way in which enantiomers differ from racemates.
Separation Curves of Screening and Air Classifying Processes at Low Material Loadings
Authors: Spötter Christian , Elskamp Frederik , Hennig Manuel , Teipel Ulrich , Weber Alfred P. , Kruggel‐Emden Harald
Published: September 2017

Zur Abtrennung unterschiedlich großer Partikeln sind in der Feststoffverfahrenstechnik trockene Klassierprozesse zur Herstellung enger Fraktionen von großer Bedeutung. Um das Trennverhalten von Strömungs‐ und Siebklassierprozessen genauer vorhersagen zu können, wurden experimentelle Resultate mit DEM‐Simulationen verglichen. Bei der Siebklassierung wurde der Einfluss der Partikelform auf den Trennprozess betrachtet, während das Partikelverhalten zwischen den Schaufeln eines Abweiseradsichters mit DEM simuliert wurde. Die Kombination aus DEM und Experiment ermöglicht es, Modellvorhersagen durch Ermittlung prozessspezifischer Parameter zu verbessern und Klassiermodelle abzuleiten, die in dynamischen Feststofffließschemasimulationen verwendet werden.
Human papillomavirus 16 E6 antibodies are sensitive for human papillomavirus–driven oropharyngeal cancer and are associated with recurrence
Authors: Lang Kuhs Krystle A. , Kreimer Aimée R. , Trivedi Sumita , Holzinger Dana , Pawlita Michael , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Gibson Sandra P. , Schmitt Nicole C. , Hildesheim Allan , Waterboer Tim , Ferris Robert L.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) E6 antibodies may be an early marker of the diagnosis and recurrence of human papillomavirus–driven oropharyngeal cancer (HPV‐OPC).

METHODS

This study identified 161 incident oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) cases diagnosed at the University of Pittsburgh (2003‐2013) with pretreatment serum. One hundred twelve had preexisting clinical HPV testing with p16 immunohistochemistry and HPV in situ hybridization (87 were dual‐positive [HPV‐OPC], and 25 were dual‐negative [HPV‐negative]); 62 had at least 1 posttreatment serum sample. Eighty‐six of the 161 tumors were available for additional HPV16 DNA/RNA testing (45 were dual‐positive [HPV16–OPC], and 19 were dual‐negative [HPV16–negative). HPV16 E6 antibody testing was conducted with multiplex serology. The following were evaluated: 1) the sensitivity and specificity of HPV16 E6 serology for distinguishing HPV‐OPC and HPV16–OPC from HPV‐negative OPC, 2) HPV16 E6 antibody decay after treatment with linear models accommodating correlations in variance estimates, and 3) pre‐ and posttreatment HPV16 E6 levels and the risk of recurrence with Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Seventy‐eight of 87 HPV‐OPCs were HPV16 E6–seropositive (sensitivity, 89.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 81.3%‐95.2%), and 24 of 25 HPV‐negative OPCs were HPV16 E6–seronegative (specificity, 96.0%; 95% CI, 79.6%‐99.9%). Forty‐two of 45 HPV16–OPCs were HPV16 E6–seropositive (sensitivity, 93.3%; 95% CI, 81.7%‐98.6%), and 18 of 19 HPV16–negative OPCs were HPV16 E6–seronegative (specificity, 94.7%; 95% CI, 74.0%‐99.9%). Posttreatment HPV16 E6 antibody levels did not decrease significantly from the baseline (P = .575; median follow‐up, 307 days) and were not associated with the risk of recurrence. However, pretreatment HPV16 E6 seropositivity was associated with an 86% reduced risk of local/regional recurrence (hazard ratio, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.03‐0.68; P = .015).

CONCLUSIONS

HPV16 E6 antibodies may have potential clinical utility for the diagnosis and/or prognosis of HPV‐OPC. Cancer 2017;123:4382‐90. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Intelligent Fluorescence Probe with Turn‐on Properties By a “See‐Saw” Balance of Visible and Near‐infrared Fluorescence
Authors: Jing Titao , Wu Ziye , Ruan Zheng , Li Tuanwei , Jiang Jun , Yan Lifeng
Published: September 2017

Bioimaging requires probes for tracing, especially in the near‐infrared (NIR) region. Herein, A Schiff base dye conjugated with both pyrene and a cyanine (cy7) NIR fluorophores has been synthesized, which showed a novel “see‐saw” fluorescent performance via the combination of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) and aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ). The new dye is always switched on in terms of fluorescence by the “see‐saw” balance of the visible and NIR fluorescence. The system is fluorescent in the visible region when it is it is its aggregated state as a result of AIE while it emits NIR fluorescence in the single molecule state. The as‐prepared dye has many potential applications, especially in the field of bioimaging, which was confirmed by in vitro cell experiments.
Sexual dimorphism, phenotypic integration, and the evolution of head structure in casque‐headed lizards
Authors: Taylor Gregory W. , Santos Juan C. , Perrault Benjamin J. , Morando Mariana , Vásquez Almazán Carlos Roberto , Sites Jack W.
Published: September 2017

Sexes can differ in features associated with differential reproduction, which can be used during courtship or aggressive encounters. Some traits tend to evolve independently between sexes and emerge as sexually dimorphic within the organismal phenotype. We characterize such a relationship by estimating the phenotypic integration of the head morphology and modularity of the crest in the casque‐headed lizards (Corytophanidae). In this clade, some species show extreme sexual dimorphism (e.g., head crests in the genusBasiliscus) while in others, both sexes are monomorphic. To characterize these patterns, we define phenotypic integration at the interspecific level as a pattern or network of traits evidenced by phylogenetically adjusted correlations that persist among species. At this level, modularity is an increased connectedness (e.g., higher correlation) among sections of these networks that persist in a lineage during the evolution of complex phenotypes. To test both concepts, we used phylogenetic geomorphometrics to characterize the head structure of corytophanid lizards, based on a time‐calibrated phylogeny that includes candidate fossil ancestors. We found evidence of an older diversification of corytophanids than previously reported (~67 vs. ~23.5 MYA) and show that this clade includes two morphological head architectures: (1) Sexually dimorphic crests present in males that are evolving independently from the rest of the head structure, and (2) full integration of the head morphology in monomorphic species. We propose that both architectures are optimal evolutionary trajectories of the parietal crest bones in the head of these lizards. In sexually dimorphic species, these bones are elongated and thinner, and gave rise to the extended crest used in male courtship displays. In monomorphic species, the parietal crest grew thicker in both sexes to allow for a better insertion of muscles associated with a stronger bite.
Using pentosidine and hydroxyproline to predict age and sex in an avian species
Authors: Dorr Brian S. , Stahl Randal S. , Hanson‐Dorr Katie C. , Furcolow Carol A.
Published: September 2017

All living organisms are subject to senescence accompanied by progressive and irreversible physiological changes. The error damage and cross‐linking theories suggest that cells and tissues are damaged by an accumulation of cross‐linked proteins, slowing down bodily processes and resulting in aging. A major category of these cross‐linked proteins are compounds called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). We investigated the relationship between accumulation of the AGE, pentosidine (Ps), and hydroxyproline (HYP) a post‐translationally modified amino acid, with age, sex, and breeding status (breeder/nonbreeder) from skin samples of known age (i.e., banded as fledglings), free‐ranging Double‐crested Cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus,Lesson 1831). We developed multivariate models and evaluated the predictive capability of our models for determining age and breeding versus nonbreeding birds. We found significant relationships with Ps and HYP concentration and age, and Ps concentration and sex. Based on our two‐class model using Ps and HYP as explanatory variables, we were able to accurately determine whether a cormorant was a breeder or nonbreeder in 83.5% of modeled classifications. Our data indicate that Ps and HYP concentrations can be used to determine breeding status of cormorants and potentially age of cormorants although sex‐specific models may be necessary. Although the accumulation of Ps explained the greatest amount of variance in breeding status and age, importantly, Ps covaried with HYP and combined improved prediction of these demographics in cormorants. Our data support the error damage and cross‐linking theories of aging. Both Ps and HYP increase predictably in cormorants and are predictive of age and breeding status. Given the ubiquity of these biomarkers across taxa, their use in estimating demographic characteristics of animals could provide a powerful tool in animal ecology, conservation, and management.
Influences of population pressure change on vegetation greenness in China's mountainous areas
Authors: Li Wei , Li Xiubin , Tan Minghong , Wang Yahui
Published: September 2017

Mountainous areas in China account for two‐thirds of the total land area. Due to rapid urbanization, rural population emigration in China's mountainous areas is very significant. This raises the question to which degree such population emigration influences the vegetation greenness in these areas. In this study, 9,753 sample areas (each sample measured about 64 square kilometers) were randomly selected, and the influences of population emigration (population pressure change) on vegetation greenness during 2000–2010 were quantitatively expressed by the multivariate linear regression (MLR) model, using census data under the condition of controlling the natural elements such as climatic and landform factors. The results indicate that the vegetation index in the past 10 years has presented an increasing overall trend, albeit with local decrease in some regions. The combined area of the regions with improved vegetation accounted for 81.7% of the total mountainous areas in China. From 2000 to 2010, the rural population significantly decreased, with most significant decreases in the northern and central areas (17.2% and 16.8%, respectively). In China's mountainous areas and in most of the subregions, population emigration has significant impacts on vegetation change. In different subregions, population decrease differently influenced vegetation greenness, and the marginal effect of population decrease on vegetation change presented obvious differences from north to south. In the southwest, on the premise of controlling other factors, a population decrease by one unit could increase the slope of vegetation change by 16.4%; in contrast, in the southeastern, northern, northeastern, and central area, the proportion was about 15.5%, 10.6%, 9.7%, and 7.5%, respectively, for improving the trend of NDVI variation.
The autonomic nervous system as a therapeutic target in heart failure: a scientific position statement from the Translational Research Committee of the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology
Authors: van Bilsen Marc , Patel Hitesh C. , Bauersachs Johann , Böhm Michael , Borggrefe Martin , Brutsaert Dirk , Coats Andrew J.S. , de Boer Rudolf A. , de Keulenaer Gilles W. , Filippatos Gerasimos S. , Floras John , Grassi Guido , Jankowska Ewa A. , Kornet Lilian , Lunde Ida G. , Maack Christoph , Mahfoud Felix , Pollesello Piero , Ponikowski Piotr , Ruschitzka Frank , Sabbah Hani N. , Schultz Harold D. , Seferovic Petar , Slart Riemer H.J.A. , Taggart Peter , Tocchetti Carlo G. , Van Laake Linda W. , Zannad Faiez , Heymans Stephane , Lyon Alexander R.
Published: September 2017

Despite improvements in medical therapy and device‐based treatment, heart failure (HF) continues to impose enormous burdens on patients and health care systems worldwide. Alterations in autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity contribute to cardiac disease progression, and the recent development of invasive techniques and electrical stimulation devices has opened new avenues for specific targeting of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the ANS. The Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology recently organized an expert workshop which brought together clinicians, trialists and basic scientists to discuss the ANS as a therapeutic target in HF. The questions addressed were: (i) What are the abnormalities of ANS in HF patients? (ii) What methods are available to measure autonomic dysfunction? (iii) What therapeutic interventions are available to target the ANS in patients with HF, and what are their specific strengths and weaknesses? (iv) What have we learned from previous ANS trials? (v) How should we proceed in the future?
Clinical outcomes of temporary mechanical circulatory support as a direct bridge to heart transplantation: a nationwide Spanish registry
Authors: Barge‐Caballero Eduardo , Almenar‐Bonet Luis , Gonzalez‐Vilchez Francisco , Lambert‐Rodríguez José L. , González‐Costello José , Segovia‐Cubero Javier , Castel‐Lavilla María A. , Delgado‐Jiménez Juan , Garrido‐Bravo Iris P. , Rangel‐Sousa Diego , Martínez‐Sellés Manuel , De la Fuente‐Galan Luis , Rábago‐Juan‐Aracil Gregorio , Sanz‐Julve Marisa , Hervás‐Sotomayor Daniela , Mirabet‐Pérez Sonia , Muñiz Javier , Crespo‐Leiro Maria G.
Published: September 2017

Background

In Spain, listing for high‐urgent heart transplantation is allowed for critically ill candidates not weanable from temporary mechanical circulatory support (T‐MCS). We sought to analyse the clinical outcomes of this strategy.

Methods and results

We conducted a case‐by‐case, retrospective review of clinical records of 291 adult patients listed for high‐urgent heart transplantation under temporary devices from 2010 to 2015 in 16 Spanish institutions. Survival after listing and adverse clinical events were studied. At the time of listing, 169 (58%) patients were supported on veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO), 70 (24%) on temporary left ventricular assist devices (T‐LVAD) and 52 (18%) on temporary biventricular assist devices (T‐BiVAD). Seven patients transitioned from VA‐ECMO to temporary ventricular assist devices while on the waiting list. Mean time on T‐MCS was 13.1 ± 12.6 days. Mean time from listing to transplantation was 7.6 ± 8.5 days. Overall, 230 (79%) patients were transplanted and 54 (18.6%) died during MCS. In‐hospital postoperative mortality after transplantation was 33.3%, 11.9% and 26.2% for patients bridged on VA‐ECMO, T‐LVAD and T‐BiVAD, respectively (P = 0.008). Overall survival from listing to hospital discharge was 54.4%, 78.6% and 55.8%, respectively (P = 0.002). T‐LVAD support was independently associated with a lower risk of death over the first year after listing (hazard ratio 0.52, 95% confidence interval 0.30–0.92). Patients treated with VA‐ECMO showed the highest incidence rate of adverse clinical events associated with T‐MCS.

Conclusion

Temporary devices may be used to bridge critically ill candidates directly to heart transplantation in a setting of short waiting list times, as is the case of Spain. In our series, bridging with T‐LVAD was associated with more favourable outcomes than bridging with T‐BiVAD or VA‐ECMO.
Characteristics, treatments and 1‐year prognosis of hospitalized and ambulatory heart failure patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the European Society of Cardiology Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry
Authors: Canepa Marco , Straburzynska‐Migaj Ewa , Drozdz Jaroslaw , Fernandez‐Vivancos Carla , Pinilla Jose Manuel Garcia , Nyolczas Noemi , Temporelli Pier Luigi , Mebazaa Alexandre , Lainscak Mitja , Laroche Cécile , Maggioni Aldo Pietro , Piepoli Massimo F. , Coats Andrew J.S. , Ferrari Roberto , Tavazzi Luigi ,   on behalf of the ESC‐HFA Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry Investigators
Published: September 2017

Aims

To describe the characteristics and assess the 1‐year outcomes of hospitalized (HHF) and chronic (CHF) heart failure patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) enrolled in a large European registry between May 2011 and April 2013.

Methods and results

Overall, 1334/6920 (19.3%) HHF patients and 1322/9409 (14.1%) CHF patients were diagnosed with COPD. In both groups, patients with COPD were older, more frequently men, had a worse clinical presentation and a higher prevalence of co‐morbidities. In HHF, the increase in the use of heart failure (HF) medications at hospital discharge was greater in non‐COPD than in COPD for angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (+13.7% vs. +7.2%), beta‐blockers (+20.6% vs. +11.8%) and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (+20.9% vs. +17.3%), thus widening the gap in HF treatment already existing between the two groups at admission. In CHF patients, there was a similar increase in the use of these medications after enrollment visit in the two groups, leaving a significant difference of 8.2% for beta‐blockers in favour of non‐COPD patients (89.8% vs. 81.6%, P < 0.001). At 1‐year follow‐up, the hazard ratios for COPD in multivariable analysis confirmed its independent association with hospitalizations both in HHF [all‐cause: 1.16 (1.04–1.29), for HF: 1.22 (1.05–1.42)] and CHF patients [all‐cause: 1.26 (1.13–1.41), for HF: 1.37 (1.17–1.60)]. The association between COPD and all‐cause mortality was not confirmed in both groups after adjustments.

Conclusions

COPD frequently coexists in HHF and CHF, worsens the clinical course of the disease, and significantly impacts its therapeutic management and prognosis. The matter should deserve greater attention from the cardiology community.
Protein tyrosine phosphatase PTPN22 regulates IL‐1β dependent Th17 responses by modulating dectin‐1 signaling in mice
Authors: Purvis Harriet A , Clarke Fiona , Jordan Christine K , Blanco Cristina Sanchez , Cornish Georgina H , Dai Xuezhi , Rawlings David J , Zamoyska Rose , Cope Andrew P
Published: September 2017

A single nucleotide polymorphism within the PTPN22 gene is a strong genetic risk factor predisposing to the development of multiple autoimmune diseases. PTPN22 regulates Syk and Src family kinases downstream of immuno‐receptors. Fungal β‐glucan receptor dectin‐1 signals via Syk, and dectin‐1 stimulation induces arthritis in mouse models. We investigated whether PTPN22 regulates dectin‐1 dependent immune responses. Bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) generated from C57BL/6 wild type (WT) and Ptpn22−/− mutant mice, were pulsed with OVA323‐339 and the dectin‐1 agonist curdlan and co‐cultured in vitro with OT‐II T‐cells or adoptively transferred into OT‐II mice, and T‐cell responses were determined by immunoassay. Dectin‐1 activated Ptpn22−/− BMDCs enhanced T‐cell secretion of IL‐17 in vitro and in vivo in an IL‐1β dependent manner. Immunoblotting revealed that compared to WT, dectin‐1 activated Ptpn22−/− BMDCs displayed enhanced Syk and Erk phosphorylation. Dectin‐1 activation of BMDCs expressing Ptpn22R619W (the mouse orthologue of human PTPN22R620W) also resulted in increased IL‐1β secretion and T‐cell dependent IL‐17 responses, indicating that in the context of dectin‐1 Ptpn22R619W operates as a loss‐of‐function variant. These findings highlight PTPN22 as a novel regulator of dectin‐1 signals, providing a link between genetically conferred perturbations of innate receptor signaling and the risk of autoimmune disease.
Operational Conditions Affecting Hydrogen Production by the Photoreforming of Organic Compounds using Titania Nanoparticles with Gold
Authors: Varas‐Concha Felipe , Guzmán Diego , Isaacs Mauricio , Sáez‐Navarrete César
Published: September 2017

Several factors affect photocatalytic hydrogen productivity from the photoreforming of organic compounds, which makes it difficult to optimize operational conditions in photoreactors. To prioritize these factors, we focused on the quantification of the effect of five of them on hydrogen production. Photocatalytic experiments were performed on 67 mL batch photoreactors under UV‐LED lamps (λ=375 nm) using a suspension of TiO2–Au nanoparticles synthesized by a sol–gel approach. The analyzed factors were: (A) presence of Au as a cocatalyst, (B) type of alcohol as the electron donor, (C) intensity of UV light, (D) electron donor concentration, and (E) nanoparticle concentration. A main and interaction effects analysis is presented with reduced fixed effect models for three responses: total hydrogen generation, catalyst productivity, and electron donor productivity. The presence of Au as a cocatalyst (A), the intensity of UV light (C), and their interaction (AC) were the factors with the highest effect. The best configuration allowed us to reach a catalyst productivity of 2925 μmol
 g−1 h−1.
Studying the possibility of a combined hybrid solar chimney power plant with a gas turbine
Authors: Djimli Samir , Chaker Abla , Ajib Salman , Habka Muhsen
Published: September 2017

It has been observed during the production process of a solar chimney that the ambient temperature at the collector inlet is the main reason for the system weakness. In this paper, an improved design concept depending on coupling a solar chimney with a gas turbine has been presented. Here, increasing the efficiency and reducing the specific costs (€/kWh) of the solar chimney power plant are the main purposes of this study. The exhaust gas of the turbine will be injected either at the inlet or the middle of the collector, which allows a quick increase of the efficiency and recovering the energy from the exhaust gas. For conducting the numerical simulations, the Fluent software will be used. The results showed that in the present method the velocity at the inlet of the chimney and the outlet of the collector increases together with the temperature to high values. This increases in turn the power production rate till ten times (from 50 to 500 KW). Consequently, the specific costs will be greatly improved. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1160–1168, 2018
Cumulative evidence for relationships between multiple variants in the VTI1A and TCF7L2 genes and cancer incidence
Authors: Zhang Min , Tang Mingshuang , Fang Yanfei , Cui Huijie , Chen Siyu , Li Junlong , Xiong Hongyan , Lu Jiachun , Gu Dongqing , Zhang Ben
Published: September 2017

Genetic studies have linked the VTI1A‐TCF7L2 region with risk of multiple cancers. However, findings from these studies were generally inconclusive. We aimed to provide a synopsis of current understanding of associations between variants in the VTI1A‐TCF7L2 region and cancer susceptibility. We conducted a comprehensive research synopsis and meta‐analysis to evaluate associations between 17 variants in this region and risk of seven cancers using data from 32 eligible articles totaling 224,656 cancer cases and 324,845 controls. We graded cumulative evidence of significant associations using Venice criteria and false‐positive report probability tests. We also conducted analyses to evaluate potential function of these variants using data from the Encyclopedia of DNA Elements (ENCODE) Project. Eight variants showed a nominally significant association with risk of individual cancer (p < 0.05). Cumulative epidemiological evidence of an association was graded as strong for rs7903146 [odds ratio (OR) = 1.05, p = 4.13 × 10−5] and rs7904519 (OR = 1.07, p = 2.02 × 10−14) in breast cancer, rs11196172 (OR = 1.11, p = 2.22 × 10−16), rs12241008 (OR = 1.13, p = 1.36 × 10−10) and rs10506868 (OR = 1.10, p = 3.98 × 10−9) in colorectal cancer, rs7086803 in lung cancer (OR = 1.30, p = 3.54 × 10−18) and rs11196067 (OR = 1.18, p = 3.59 × 10−13) in glioma, moderate for rs12255372 (OR = 1.12, p = 2.52 × 10−4) in breast cancer and weak for rs7903146 (OR = 1.11, p = 0.007) in colorectal cancer. Data from ENCODE suggested that seven variants with strong evidence and other correlated variants might fall within putative functional regions. Collectively, our study provides summary evidence that common variants in the VTI1A and TCF7L2 genes are associated with risk of breast, colorectal, lung cancer and glioma and highlights the significant role of the VTI1A‐TCF7L2 region in the pathogenesis of human cancers.
Discrimination of patients with different serological evolution of HIV and co‐infection with HCV using metabolic fingerprinting based on Fourier transform infrared
Authors: Pizarro Consuelo , Esteban‐Díez Isabel , Arenzana‐Rámila Irene , González‐Sáiz José M.
Published: September 2017

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that weakens the immune system and permits opportunistic diseases such as hepatitis C (HCV) to enter the body. These diseases induce metabolic disorders in the patients and it is therefore logical to approach them from a holistic, functional perspective, studying the metabolome comprehensively to identify metabolic signatures associated with certain disease states. The metabolomics strategy here proposed involves metabolic fingerprinting using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and chemometric tools on 72 plasma samples (subdivided into 63 training and 9 test samples) to differentiate between healthy subjects and patients with different disease stages. Several options, relating to the variable selection method used in linear discriminant analysis and the number of categories being considered, were explored to optimize discrimination ability. A total of 18 bands enabled differentiation between control subjects, HIV patients and the group that encompassed patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), AIDS/HCV and HIV/HCV, providing overall classification and internal prediction rates of 97.67% and 93.65%, respectively. Only 9 bands were required to further discriminate between AIDS, AIDS/HCV and HIV/HCV, with 99.20% (training) and 89.66% (cross‐validation) correct classifications. The simplicity and effectiveness of the classification methodology proposed was reinforced by the satisfactory results obtained in external prediction.
Activation of Candida antarctica lipase B in pressurized fluids for the synthesis of esters
Authors: Nyari Nádia Ligianara Dewes , Zabot Giovani Leone , Zamadei Raquel , Paluzzi Alessandro Rogerio , Tres Marcus Vinícius , Zeni Jamile , Venquiaruto Luciana Dornelles , Dallago Rogério Marcos
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

The objective of this work was to evaluate the activation of Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) in pressurized CO2 or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and, thereafter, to evaluate the synthesis of esters using activated CALB as a biocatalyst. Before activation, CALB was immobilized in polyurethane. For the esterification reactions, mechanical or ultrasonic agitations were studied. The stability of CALB after reuse cycles was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Before activation, the enzymatic activity of immobilized CALB was 789 U g‐1. After activation in pressurized CO2 and LPG, the activities increased to 2486 U g‐1 and 1413 U g‐1, respectively. Consequently, the residual activities of CALB after activation in pressurized CO2 and LPG were 315% and 179%, respectively. For the best condition of reaction under ultrasonic agitation, oleic acid conversion was 51.2% when using non‐activated CALB. Otherwise, oleic acid conversions were 66.5% and 77.1% when using CALB activated in LPG and CO2, respectively. This biocatalyst maintained more than 80% of its residual activity when reused for up to 13 cycles.

CONCLUSION

Activation of CALB in pressurized CO2 provided enzymatic activities 1.76 times higher than activation in pressurized LPG did. Immobilized CALB had good performance as a stable biocatalyst for esterification reactions under ultrasonic agitation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Perinatal diagnosis and management of oropharyngeal fetus in fetu: A case report
Authors: Yu Yangyang R. , Espinoza Jimmy , Mehta Deepak K. , Keswani Sundeep G. , Lee Timothy C.
Published: September 2017

Fetus in fetu is an extremely rare congenital anomaly. We describe the perinatal diagnosis and management of a fetus with oropharyngeal and cervical fetus in fetu. High‐resolution ultrasonography with 3‐dimensional rendering can identify increased risks of airway obstruction in utero. Early identification allows a multidisciplinary team to be assembled for a scheduled ex utero intrapartum treatment procedure.
αvβ3 mediated tumor imaging using 99mTc labeled NAD/monosaccharide coated ferrihydrite nanoparticles
Authors: Kim Eun‐Mi , Oh Phil‐Sun , Jeong Hwan‐Jeong , Lim Seok Tae , Sohn Myung‐Hee
Published: September 2017

This study describes the synthesis of highly water‐soluble, non‐toxic, and biocompatible nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)/glucosamine (=Nga1Fh) and NAD/glucosamine/gluconic acid coated ferrihydrite nanoparticles (=Nga2Fh) and their possible uses to target tumors in living animals via 99mTc and 125I radioisotope labeling. The structural properties were investigated using DLS, zeta potential, TEM, FT‐IR, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy. The cell toxicity in CT26 cancer cells and in vivo tumor targetability in U87MG and CT26 tumor‐bearing mice was further evaluated using cRGDyK‐tagged and cRGDfK‐tagged ferrihydrite nanoparticles. The average diameters of the resulting Nga1Fh and Nga2Fh nanoparticles were <5 to 7 and <3 nm, respectively. The Nga2Fh nanoparticles did not show cell toxicity until 0.1 mg/mL. Using gamma camera imaging, 99mTc‐cRGDfK‐Nga2Fh showed the highest tumor uptake in a U87MG tumor‐bearing mouse when compared with that of 99mTc‐cRGDyK‐Nga2Fh and 99mTc‐Nga2Fh. The image‐based tumor‐to‐muscle ratio by time for 99mTc‐cRGDfK‐Nga2Fh was 3.8 ± 1.7, 4.2 ± 2.0, 7 ± 1.5, 13 ± 2.0, 8 ± 3.7, and 2 ± 1.6 at 5 and 30 minutes, 1, 2, 4, and 24 hours, respectively. Although further studies are needed, the NAD/monosaccharide coated ferrihydrite nanoparticles could be presented as an interesting material for a drug delivery system.
Time Interval Measurements of the Ductus Venosus During the Early Second Trimester of Pregnancy: Reference Ranges and Clinical Application
Authors: Suksai Manaphat , Suwanrath Chitkasaem , Kor‐anantakul Ounjai , Geater Alan
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The aims of this study were to construct reference ranges for the time interval parameters of the ductus venosus during the early second trimester of pregnancy and to demonstrate the clinical utility in various fetal disorders.

Methods

The ductus venosus Doppler measurements of 331 healthy fetuses between 15 and 22 weeks’ gestation were analyzed. The systolic time and diastolic time were subdivided into the systolic acceleration time, systolic deceleration time, diastolic acceleration time, and diastolic deceleration time. The median, 5th, and 95th regression lines for each variable were determined according to gestational age. The ductus venosus time interval parameters in cases of fetoplacental abnormalities were calculated and plotted against the reference ranges.

Results

With advancing gestation, the systolic acceleration time and total systolic time increased significantly (P < .001). In contrast to the systolic phase, the diastolic deceleration time decreased significantly during the early second trimester of pregnancy (P = .023). The systolic deceleration time, diastolic acceleration time, and diastolic time were relatively constant. Fetuses with tricuspid insufficiency, twin‐twin transfusion syndrome, intrauterine fetal growth restriction, and anemia had abnormal ductus venosus times with different patterns.

Conclusions

Predicted normal reference ranges for time interval variables in relation to gestational age were established. These could be helpful for assessing fetal cardiovascular function during the early second trimester of pregnancy.
Population‐level effects of lead fishing tackle on common loons
Authors: Grade Tiffany J. , Pokras Mark A. , Laflamme Eric M. , Vogel Harry S.
Published: September 2017

Poisoning from lead fishing tackle has been identified as the leading cause of mortality in adult common loons (Gavia immer). As a K‐selected species, adult survival is a critical component in the population demography of loons, but the population‐level effects of mortality from ingested lead tackle on loons have not been quantified. We used a long‐term dataset (1989–2012) on common loon mortality in New Hampshire, USA, to describe the types of lead tackle ingested by loons, investigate methods of ingestion of lead tackle, document the number and rate of adult mortalities resulting from lead tackle, and test for a population‐level effect of lead tackle on the loon population in New Hampshire. Nearly half (48.6%) of collected adult mortalities resulted from lead toxicosis from ingested lead fishing tackle, representing an adjusted annual mortality rate of 1.7 ± 0.6% (SD) of the statewide population. Jigs accounted for 52.6% and sinkers for 38.8% of the archived lead tackle objects removed from loons, a higher proportion of jigs than has been reported in previous studies. The timing of lead tackle mortalities and a high incidence of accompanying non‐lead associated fishing gear (hooks, fishing line, leaders, swivels, wire), which peaked in July and August, suggest that loons obtain the majority of lead tackle from current fishing activity rather than from a reservoir of lead tackle on lake bottoms. To project the statewide loon population in the absence of lead fishing tackle as a stressor, we constructed a retrospective population model, which re‐inserted loons that died from lead tackle into the population, and used linear regression to test for a population‐level effect. We defined a population‐level effect as a difference in the population growth rate (λ). We estimated that lead tackle mortality reduced the population growth rate (λ) by 1.4% and the statewide population by 43% during the years of the study. This study suggests that replacing lead fishing sinkers and jigs weighing ≤28.4 g with non‐toxic alternatives would result in an immediate benefit to the loon population in New Hampshire. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Subspace arrangements as generalized star configurations
Authors: Tohǎneanu Ştefan O.
Published: September 2017

In this note, we show that any projective subspace arrangement can be realized as a generalized star configuration variety. This type of interpolation result may be useful in designing linear codes with prescribed codewords of minimum weight, as well as in answering a couple of questions about the number of equations needed to define a generalized star configuration variety.
Intrinsic brain connectivity predicts impulse control disorders in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Tessitore Alessandro , De Micco Rosa , Giordano Alfonso , di Nardo Federica , Caiazzo Giuseppina , Siciliano Mattia , De Stefano Manuela , Russo Antonio , Esposito Fabrizio , Tedeschi Gioacchino
Published: September 2017

Background: Impulse control disorders can be triggered by dopamine replacement therapies in patients with PD. Using resting‐state functional MRI, we investigated the intrinsic brain network connectivity at baseline in a cohort of drug‐naive PD patients who successively developed impulse control disorders over a 36‐month follow‐up period compared with patients who did not.

Methods: Baseline 3‐Tesla MRI images of 30 drug‐naive PD patients and 20 matched healthy controls were analyzed. The impulse control disorders' presence and severity at follow‐up were assessed by the Questionnaire for Impulsive‐Compulsive Disorders in Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. Single‐subject and group‐level independent component analysis was used to investigate functional connectivity differences within the major resting‐state networks. We also compared internetwork connectivity between patients. Finally, a multivariate Cox regression model was used to investigate baseline predictors of impulse control disorder development.

Results: At baseline, decreased connectivity in the default‐mode and right central executive networks and increased connectivity in the salience network were detected in PD patients with impulse control disorders at follow‐up compared with those without. Increased default‐mode/central executive internetwork connectivity was significantly associated with impulse control disorders development (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated that abnormal brain connectivity in the three large‐scale networks characterizes drug‐naive PD patients who will eventually develop impulse control disorders while on dopaminergic treatment. We hypothesize that these divergent cognitive and limbic network connectivity changes could represent a potential biomarker and an additional risk factor for the emergence of impulse control disorders. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Parkinsonism without dopamine neuron degeneration in aged l‐dopa‐responsive dystonia knockin mice
Authors: Rose Samuel J. , Harrast Porter , Donsante Christine , Fan Xueliang , Joers Valerie , Tansey Malú G. , Jinnah H.A. , Hess Ellen J.
Published: September 2017

Background: Recent neuroimaging studies implicate nigrostriatal degeneration as a critical factor in producing late‐onset parkinsonism in patients with l‐dopa‐responsive dystonia‐causing mutations. However, postmortem anatomical studies do not reveal neurodegeneration in l‐dopa‐responsive dystonia patients. These contrasting findings make it unclear how parkinsonism develops in l‐dopa‐responsive dystonia mutation carriers.

Methods: We prospectively assessed motor dysfunction, responses to dopaminergic challenge, and dopamine neuron degeneration with aging in a validated knockin mouse model bearing a l‐dopa‐responsive dystonia‐causing mutation found in humans.

Results: As l‐dopa‐responsive dystonia mice aged, dystonic movements waned while locomotor activity decreased and initiation of movements slowed. Despite the age‐related reduction in movement, there was no evidence for degeneration of midbrain dopamine neurons. Presynaptically mediated dopaminergic responses did not change with age in l‐dopa‐responsive dystonia mice, but responses to D1 dopamine receptor agonists decreased with age.

Conclusions: We have demonstrated for the first time the co‐occurrence of dystonia and Parkinson's‐like features (mainly consisting of hypokinesia) in a genetic mouse model. In this model we show that these features evolve without dopaminergic neurodegeneration, suggesting that postsynaptic plasticity, rather than presynaptic degeneration, may contribute to the development of parkinsonism in patients with l‐dopa‐responsive dystonia. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The hottest July day on the railway network: insights and thoughts for the future
Authors: Ferranti Emma , Chapman Lee , Lee Susan , Jaroszweski David , Lowe Caroline , McCulloch Steve , Quinn Andrew
Published: September 2017

The 1 July 2015 was the hottest July day on record (37.5 °C recorded at Heathrow Airport) in the United Kingdom (UK), and record‐breaking temperatures were recorded across England. This short‐duration heatwave (30 June–1 July 2015) affected railway services both directly, by causing asset failure or malfunction, and indirectly, by necessitating the use of emergency speed restrictions (ESRs) to reduce the likelihood of track buckling. Incidents caused by heat and lightning were recorded across the British railway network, and knock‐on delays affected rail travel in regions where extreme weather did not have a direct impact. Over both days there were more than 220 000 delay‐minutes. Many of these could not be attributed specifically to the weather, but 23 700 delay‐minutes were due to emergency speed restrictions (ESRs) as a preventative measure to reduce the likelihood of rail buckling, 12 800 to heat and 4000 to lightning incidents. All regions experienced more than twice the daily average delay‐minutes on one or both days, costing an estimated £16 million to the national economy. Incidents on critical routes (e.g. London North Eastern connecting London and Scotland) or near critical transport nodes such as Manchester Piccadilly caused the longest delays. Under future warmer climatic conditions, heatwaves and extreme temperatures are projected to occur more frequently and the railway operator has several measures to adapt or update existing infrastructure in order to reduce the impact of heat and lightning. Alternative solutions such as low‐cost sensors for real‐time condition monitoring or green infrastructure for increased asset resilience should also be considered.