bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pirating conserved phage mechanisms promotes promiscuous staphylococcal pathogenicity island transfer
Authors: Bowring Janine , Neamah Maan M , Donderis Jorge , Mir-Sanchis Ignacio , Alite Christian , Ciges-Tomas J Rafael , Maiques Elisa , Medmedov Iltyar , Marina Alberto , Penadés José R
Published: August 2017

Targeting conserved and essential processes is a successful strategy to combat enemies. Remarkably, the clinically important Staphylococcus aureus pathogenicity islands (SaPIs) use this tactic to spread in nature. SaPIs reside passively in the host chromosome, under the control of the SaPI-encoded master repressor, Stl. It has been assumed that SaPI de-repression is effected by specific phage proteins that bind to Stl, initiating the SaPI cycle. Different SaPIs encode different Stl repressors, so each targets a specific phage protein for its de-repression. Broadening this narrow vision, we report here that SaPIs ensure their promiscuous transfer by targeting conserved phage mechanisms. This is accomplished because the SaPI Stl repressors have acquired different domains to interact with unrelated proteins, encoded by different phages, but in all cases performing the same conserved function. This elegant strategy allows intra- and inter-generic SaPI transfer, highlighting these elements as one of nature’s most fascinating subcellular parasites.
Distribution and behavior of Argentine hake larvae: Evidence of a biophysical mechanism for self-recruitment in northern Patagonian shelf waters
Authors: Álvarez-Colombo G , Dato C , Macchi G , Palma E , Machinandiarena L , Christiansen HE , Betti P , Derisio C , Martos P , Castro-Machado F , Brown D , Ehrlich M , Mianzan H , Acha EM
Published: August 2017

It has been proposed that vertical movements of planktonic organisms coupled to a horizontally or vertically stratified circulation pattern could describe a retention mechanism, with ecological advantages such as favoring recruitment success. The Patagonian stock of the Argentine hake Merluccius hubbsi spawns mainly from January to February in relation to a highly productive tidal frontal system. Although retention of fish eggs and larvae has been previously hypothesized for this system, it has not been fully proven and its mechanisms have not yet been proposed for hake early stages. To better understand the physical and biological processes involved in the survival and distribution of hake larvae, we focused on transport features and associated larval behavior governing the retention of larvae in the spawning area and their subsequent distribution to settlement and nursery grounds. To test this hypothesis at appropriate spatial and temporal scales, we analyzed acoustic records to describe vertical and horizontal distribution patterns of hake larvae, discrete plankton samples to confirm the identity of acoustic targets, and outputs from a numerical circulation model to estimate current patterns in the region during the hake spawning months. Coinciding with the development of a functional swimbladder, hake larvae of 4 mm and larger showed a strong vertical distribution pattern associated with a sound scattering layer migrating from the thermocline during the night to near-bottom depths during the day. This diel vertical migration pattern was associated with the circulation structure, equivalent to a two-layer flow, indicating a recirculation pattern in the vertical plane. The retention of early larval stages in the spawning area was evident from the acoustic data, indicating a persistent location for the bulk of hake larvae at the main spawning ground during summer months. The distribution extends to the rest of the nursery grounds as the breeding season advances in agreement with the general pattern of middle shelf bottom circulation vectors produced by the numerical model. The results are discussed within the framework of Bakun’s fundamental triad, identifying its elements. In addition, a conceptual model for the main biophysical coupling processes during the early life history of M. hubbsi is proposed in order to gain insight about the recruitment mechanism of this species.
Reproductive biology of black hakes (Merluccius polli and M. senegalensis) off Mauritania
Authors: Fernández-Peralta L , Salmerón F , Rey J , Puerto MA , García-Cancela R
Published: August 2017

Black hake, Merluccius polli and M. senegalensis, are demersal species that inhabit the continental shelf and upper slope off Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal, and are targeted by Spanish trawlers and bottom longliners. Merluccius senegalensis generally occurs at shallower depths than M. polli, although both species share a wide bathymetric range. Due to their external resemblance and overlapping occurrence at certain depths, both species are mixed in catches and are commonly marketed as Merluccius spp. From 2003 to 2009 biological samplings were performed in Mauritanian waters for numerous specimens of M. polli and M. senegalensis during 15 commercial fishing trips, seven experimental longline surveys, and three trawl surveys carried out within the black hake depth range and mainly during their reproductive periods. Data sets for 1334 fishing stations were thus gathered. The georeferenced macroscopic analysis of the female-assigned maturity stages was combined with the monthly evolution of the gonadosomatic index and with the time series of roe landings from 1984 to 2006 to determine the potential spawning areas, depths, and seasons for both species, showing an intense spawning period from November to February. Size at first maturity was estimated for both species in separate spawning periods and was higher for M. polli females (44 cm) than for M. senegalensis females (39 cm). Sex ratios were also determined by length classes (1 cm) for the experimental survey data and were analyzed according to fishing gear and latitude. The results showed a general predominance of females throughout the depths explored, both for M. polli (1:1.7) and M. senegalensis (1:1.5). Histological samples of ovaries and spawning progression data were jointly analyzed and indicated an apparent spawning delay for the deeper hake, M. polli (October), in comparison with the shallower hake, M. senegalensis (September).
Sequence complementarity at the ribosomal Peptidyl Transferase Centre implies self‐replicating origin
Authors: Agmon Ilana
Published: August 2017

A feasible scenario for the emergence of life requires the spontaneous materialization and sustainability of a proto‐ribosome that could have catalysed the formation of the first peptides. Models of proto‐ribosomes were derived from the ribosomal Peptidyl Transferase Centre (PTC) region, but the poor prebiotic copying abilities give rise to the question of their mode of replication. Here, complementarity is demonstrated in bacterial ribosomes, between nucleotides that constitute the two halves of the PTC cavity. The complementarity corroborates the dimeric nature of the proto‐ribosome and is likely to underlie the symmetry of the PTC region. Furthermore, it indicates a simple and efficient replication mode; the strand of each monomer could have acted as a template for the synthesis of its counterpart, forming a self‐replicating ribozyme.
A rapid administration of GW4064 inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome activation independent of farnesoid X receptor agonism
Authors: Xie Shujun , Guo Chuansheng , Chi Zhexu , Huang Bo , Wu Yihua , Wang Di , Xia Dajing
Published: August 2017

GW4064 is a small molecule known to be an agonist of the nuclear farnesoid X receptor (FXR). We found that GW4064 inhibits the NLR family CARD domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation in an FXR‐independent manner as evidenced by its similar inhibitory effect on NLRP3 inflammasome activation in FXR‐deficient macrophages. Interestingly, GW4064 decreases the nigericin‐induced oligomerization and ubiquitination of ASC which is critical for the NLRP3 inflammasome activation. In vivo results indicate that GW4064 could partially rescue the symptoms of NLRP3‐dependent inflammatory disease models. These results not only necessitate cautious interpretation of the biological function of GW4064 as an FXR agonist, but also provide a potential therapeutic approach using GW4064 in the treatment of NLRP3‐related diseases.
Climate, wildfire, and erosion ensemble foretells more sediment in western USA watersheds
Authors: Sankey Joel B. , Kreitler Jason , Hawbaker Todd J. , McVay Jason L. , Miller Mary Ellen , Mueller Erich R. , Vaillant Nicole M. , Lowe Scott E. , Sankey Temuulen T.
Published: August 2017

The area burned annually by wildfires is expected to increase worldwide due to climate change. Burned areas increase soil erosion rates within watersheds, which can increase sedimentation in downstream rivers and reservoirs. However, which watersheds will be impacted by future wildfires is largely unknown. Using an ensemble of climate, fire, and erosion models, we show that postfire sedimentation is projected to increase for nearly nine tenths of watersheds by >10% and for more than one third of watersheds by >100% by the 2041 to 2050 decade in the western USA. The projected increases are statistically significant for more than eight tenths of the watersheds. In the western USA, many human communities rely on water from rivers and reservoirs that originates in watersheds where sedimentation is projected to increase. Increased sedimentation could negatively impact water supply and quality for some communities, in addition to affecting stream channel stability and aquatic ecosystems.
Aftershocks driven by afterslip and fluid pressure sweeping through a fault‐fracture mesh
Authors: Ross Zachary E. , Rollins Christopher , Cochran Elizabeth S. , Hauksson Egill , Avouac Jean‐Philippe , Ben‐Zion Yehuda
Published: August 2017

A variety of physical mechanisms are thought to be responsible for the triggering and spatiotemporal evolution of aftershocks. Here we analyze a vigorous aftershock sequence and postseismic geodetic strain that occurred in the Yuha Desert following the 2010 Mw 7.2 El Mayor‐Cucapah earthquake. About 155,000 detected aftershocks occurred in a network of orthogonal faults and exhibit features of two distinct mechanisms for aftershock triggering. The earliest aftershocks were likely driven by afterslip that spread away from the main shock with the logarithm of time. A later pulse of aftershocks swept again across the Yuha Desert with square root time dependence and swarm‐like behavior; together with local geological evidence for hydrothermalism, these features suggest that the events were driven by fluid diffusion. The observations illustrate how multiple driving mechanisms and the underlying fault structure jointly control the evolution of an aftershock sequence.
Effect of deformation on the thermal conductivity of granular porous media with rough grain surface
Authors: Askari Roohollah , Hejazi S. Hossein , Sahimi Muhammad
Published: August 2017

Heat transfer in granular porous media is an important phenomenon that is relevant to a wide variety of problems, including geothermal reservoirs and enhanced oil recovery by thermal methods. Resistance to flow of heat in the contact area between the grains strongly influences the effective thermal conductivity of such porous media. Extensive experiments have indicated that the roughness of the grains' surface follows self‐affine fractal stochastic functions, and thus, the contact resistance cannot be accounted for by models based on smooth surfaces. Despite the significance of rough contact area, the resistance has been accounted for by a fitting parameter in the models of heat transfer. In this Letter we report on a study of conduction in a packing of particles that contains a fluid of a given conductivity, with each grain having a rough self‐affine surface, and is under an external compressive pressure. The deformation of the contact area depends on the fractal dimension that characterizes the grains' rough surface, as well as their Young's modulus. Excellent qualitative agreement is obtained with experimental data. Deformation of granular porous media with grains that have rough self‐affine fractal surface is simulated. Thermal contact resistance between grains with rough surfaces is incorporated into the numerical simulation of heat conduction under compressive pressure. By increasing compressive pressure, thermal conductivity is enhanced more in the grains with smoother surfaces and lower Young's modulus. Excellent qualitative agreement is obtained with the experimental data.
Expanding beyond the Great Divide: The Cytoskeleton and Axial Growth
Authors: Wasteneys Geoffrey O. , Collings David A.
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Division Planes and the Establishment of Axiality

Setting up for Axial Growth: Distinguishing Lateral and End Walls

Establishing Axial Growth

Polar Auxin Transport and its Regulation by the Actin Cytoskeleton

Bending and Twisting – The Consequences of Differential Growth

Conclusions and Future Perspectives

Acknowledgements
Re‐Staging Plant Mitosis
Authors: Weingarner Magdalena , Bogre Laszlo , Doonan John H.
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

The Cyclin Dependent Protein Kinases

Sequence of Events during Mitosis

Preparing for Mitosis

Commitment to Mitosis

Condensation of Chromatin

Spindle Formation

The Spindle Assembly Checkpoint Pathway

Separating the Genome

Exit from Mitosis and Cytokinesis

Concluding Remarks and Perspectives

Acknowledgements
Organelle Movements: Transport and Positioning
Authors: Grolig Franz
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Transport and Positioning of Particular Organelles

Concluding Remarks

Acknowledgements
Signaling and the Cytoskeleton in Guard Cells
Authors: Duque Paula , Sánchez Juan‐Pablo , Chua Nam‐Hai
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Guard Cell Signaling

The Cytoskeleton in Guard Cell Function

Conclusions and Perspectives

Acknowledgments
Tobacco Mosaic Virus
Authors: Carr John Peter
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Tobacco Mosaic Virus: Virion and Genome Structure

TMVReplication and the Synthesis of SubgenomicmRNAs

Movement ofTMVwithin the Host

Host Reactions toTMV

Future Directions forTMVResearch: Making an Old Foe into a New Friend?

Acknowledgments
ThePseudomonas Syringae–Bean System
Authors: Hirano Susan S. , Upper Christen D.
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

The System

Population Sizes ofPss on Populations of Leaf Habitats

Population Processes: Searching for Causes of Variability in Pathogen Population Sizes

Pss Population Sizes and the Likelihood of Disease Development

How doesPss cause Brown Spot Lesions?
TheUstilago Maydis–Maize Interaction
Authors: Garcia‐Pedrajas Maria D. , Klosterman Steven J. , Andrews David L. , Gold Scott E.
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Teliospore Germination and Meiosis

Mating and Dikaryon Formation

Penetration

Colonization of Maize Tissue

Gall Formation and Teliosporogenesis

Survival

Genetic Diversity inU.Maydis

Host Resistance

Conclusions

Acknowledgements
Polarity and Cell Walls
Authors: Wojtaszek Przemysław , Volkmann Dieter , Baluška František
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Cell Walls and Turgor – The Physiology of ‘Walled’ Cells

Cell Wall‐Plasma Membrane‐Cytoskeleton Continuum in Plant Cells

Cell Walls and Polarity at the Cellular Level: Targeted Exocytosis and Local Endocytosis Establish and Maintain Specialised Wall Domains

Cell Walls and Polarity at the Organismal Level

Cell Walls as a Linker between Different Levels of Polar Organisational Hierarchy

Acknowledgements
Polarity in Roots
Authors: Barlow Peter W. , Volkmann Dieter , Baluška František
Published: August 2017

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Polarity within Primary Root Tissues is an Expression of the Actin Cytoskeleton and of Polar Auxin Transport

Establishment of New Polarities and New Root Organs

Polarity of Secondary Growth

Cell Polarity and Organ Growth

Conclusions
Beam focal spot position: The forgotten linac QA parameter. An EPID‐based phantomless method for routine Stereotactic linac QA
Authors: Chojnowski Jacek M. , Barnes Michael P. , Sykes Jonathan R. , Thwaites David I.
Published: August 2017

Modern day Stereotactic treatments require high geometric accuracy of the delivered treatment. To achieve the required accuracy the IGRT imaging isocenter needs to closely coincide with the treatment beam isocenter. An influence on this isocenter coincidence and on the spatial positioning of the beam itself is the alignment of the treatment beam focal spot with collimator rotation axis. The positioning of the focal spot is dependent on the linac beam steering and on the stability of the monitor chamber and beam steering servo system. As such, there is the potential for focal spot misalignment and this should be checked on a regular basis. Traditional methods for measuring focal spot position are either indirect, inaccurate, or time consuming and hence impractical for routine use. In this study a novel, phantomless method has been developed using the EPID (Electronic Portal Imaging Device) that utilizes the different heights of the MLC and jaws. The method has been performed on four linear accelerators and benchmarked against an alternate ion chamber‐based method. The method has been found to be reproducible to within ±0.012 mm (1 SD) and in agreement with the ion chamber‐based method to within 0.001 ± 0.015 mm (1 SD). The method could easily be incorporated into a departmental routine linac QA (Quality Assurance) program.
Submillimeter alignment of more than three contiguous vertebrae in spinal SRS/SBRT with 6‐degree couch
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhao Zhongxiang , Luo Dershan , Yang James N. , Yang Jinzhong , Chang Eric L. , Brown Paul D. , Li Jing , McAleer Mary F. , Ghia Amol J.
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study is to identify regions of spinal column in which more than three contiguous vertebrae can be reliably and quickly aligned within 1 mm using a 6‐degree (6D) couch and full body immobilization device. We analyzed 45 cases treated over a 3‐month period. Each case was aligned using ExacTrac x‐ray positioning system with integrated 6D couch to be within 1° and 1 mm in all six dimensions. Cone‐Beam computed tomography (CBCT) with at least 17.5 cm field of view (FOV) in the superior–inferior direction was taken immediately after ExacTrac positioning. It was used to examine the residual error of five to nine contiguous vertebrae visible in the FOV. The residual error of each vertebra was determined by expanding/contracting the vertebrae contour with a margin in millimeter integrals on the planning CT such that the new contours would enclose the corresponding vertebrae contour on CBCT. Submillimeter initial setup accuracy was consistently achieved in 98% (40/41) cases for a span of five or more vertebrae starting from T2 vertebra and extending caudally to S5. The curvature of spinal column along the cervical region and cervicothoracic junction was not easily reproducible between treatment and simulation. Fifty‐seven percent (8/14) of cases in this region had residual setup error of more than 1 mm in nearby vertebrae after alignment using 6D couch with image guidance. In conclusion, 6D couch integrated with image guidance is convenient and accurately corrects small rotational shifts. Consequently, more than three contiguous vertebrae can be aligned within 1 mm with immobilization that reliably reproduces the curvature of the thoracic and lumbar spinal column. Ability of accurate setup is becoming less a concern in limiting the use of stereotactic radiosurgery or stereotactic body radiation therapy to treat multilevel spinal target.
Straightforward Immunosensing Platform Based on Graphene Oxide‐Decorated Nanopaper: A Highly Sensitive and Fast Biosensing Approach
Authors: Cheeveewattanagul Nopchulee , Morales‐Narváez Eden , Hassan Abdel‐Rahim H. A. , Bergua José Francisco , Surareungchai Werasak , Somasundrum Mithran , Merkoçi Arben
Published: August 2017

Immunoassays are nowadays a crucial tool for diagnostics and drug development. However, they often involve time‐consuming procedures and need at least two antibodies in charge of the capture and detection processes, respectively. This study reports a nanocomposite based on graphene oxide‐coated nanopaper (GONAP) facilitating an advantageous immunosensing platform using a single antibody and without the need for washing steps. The hydrophilic, porous, and photoluminescence‐quenching character of GONAP allows for the adsorption and quenching of photoluminescent quantum dots nanocrystals complexed with antibodies (Ab‐QDs), enabling a ready‐to‐use immunosensing platform. The photoluminescence is recovered upon immunocomplex (antibody‐antigen) formation which embraces a series of interactions (hydrogen bonding, electrostatic, hydrophobic, and Van der Waals interactions) that trigger desorption of the antigen‐Ab‐QD complex from GONAP surface. However, the antigen is then attached onto the GONAP surface by electrostatic interactions leading to a spacer (greater than ≈20 nm) between Ab‐QDs and GONAP and thus hindering nonradiative energy transfer. It is demonstrated that this simple—yet highly sensitive—platform represents a virtually universal immunosensing approach by using small‐sized and big‐sized targets as model analytes, those are, human‐IgG protein and Escherichia coli bacteria. In addition, the assay is proved effective in real matrices analysis, including human serum, poultry meat, and river water. GONAP opens the way to conceptually new paper‐based devices for immunosensing, which are amenable to point of care applications and automated diagnostics.
Tough Self‐Healing Elastomers by Molecular Enforced Integration of Covalent and Reversible Networks
Authors: Wu Jinrong , Cai Li‐Heng , Weitz David A.
Published: August 2017

Self‐healing polymers crosslinked by solely reversible bonds are intrinsically weaker than common covalently crosslinked networks. Introducing covalent crosslinks into a reversible network would improve mechanical strength. It is challenging, however, to apply this concept to “dry” elastomers, largely because reversible crosslinks such as hydrogen bonds are often polar motifs, whereas covalent crosslinks are nonpolar motifs. These two types of bonds are intrinsically immiscible without cosolvents. Here, we design and fabricate a hybrid polymer network by crosslinking randomly branched polymers carrying motifs that can form both reversible hydrogen bonds and permanent covalent crosslinks. The randomly branched polymer links such two types of bonds and forces them to mix on the molecular level without cosolvents. This enables a hybrid “dry” elastomer that is very tough with fracture energy 13500 Jm−2comparable to that of natural rubber. Moreover, the elastomer can self‐heal at room temperature with a recovered tensile strength 4 MPa, which is 30% of its original value, yet comparable to the pristine strength of existing self‐healing polymers. The concept of forcing covalent and reversible bonds to mix at molecular scale to create a homogenous network is quite general and should enable development of tough, self‐healing polymers of practical usage.
Double Carbonylation Using Glyoxal (HCOCOH): A Practical Copper‐Promoted Synthesis of Isatins from Primary and Secondary Anilines
Authors: Kuan Suzie Hui Chin , Sun Wei , Wang Lu , Xia Chungu , Tay Meng Guan , Liu Chao
Published: August 2017

A novel double carbonylation process has been demonstrated with easily available HCOCOH (glyoxal) as the double carbonylation reagent. Simple CuCl2⋅2H2O (copper(II) chloride dihydrate) was used as the oxidant for this transformation. Under optimized reaction conditions, various primary and secondary anilines were double‐carbonylated to afford their corresponding isatins (26 examples, up to 80% yields).

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Silver‐Catalyzed Double Hydrocarbonation of 2‐Trifluoromethyl‐1,3‐Conjugated Enynes with 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds: Synthesis of Ring‐Trifluoromethylated Cyclopentene
Authors: Zeng Yu , Huang Chaoqian , Ni Peiyun , Liu Lu , Xiao Yuanjing , Zhang Junliang
Published: August 2017

An unexpected atom‐economic tandem intermolecular hydrocarbonation and intramolecular hydrocarbonation (double hydrocarbonation sequence) of 2‐trifluoromethyl‐1,3‐conjugated enynes with 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds leading to ring‐trifluoromethylated cyclo‐pentene frameworks by combination use of AgNO3 as a catalyst and Et3N as a base was developed. Enynes possessing electron‐withdrawing aryl groups on the alkyne moiety are general good candidates for present transformation.

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Role of 108 schizophrenia‐associated loci in modulating psychopathological dimensions in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
Authors: Fabbri Chiara , Serretti Alessandro
Published: August 2017

The Schizophrenia Working Group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC) identified 108 loci associated with schizophrenia, but their role in modulating specific psychopathological dimensions of the disease is unknown. This study investigated which symptom dimensions may be affected by these loci in schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Positive, negative and depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, cognition, violent behaviors, quality of life, and early onset were investigated in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder using the clinical antipsychotic trials of intervention effectiveness (CATIE) and systematic treatment enhancement program for bipolar disorder (STEP‐BD) studies. Individual loci were investigated, then genes within 50 Kbp from polymorphisms with p < 0.10 were included in an enrichment analysis (Cytoscape GeneMania plugin) and used to estimate polygenic risk scores (PRS). Covariates were center, age, gender, ancestry‐informative population, principal components, and for cognition, also years of education were considered. Eighty‐nine polymorphisms were available, 479 and 810 white subjects were included from CATIE and STEP‐BD, respectively. rs75059851 (IGSF9B gene) was associated with negative symptoms in CATIE (p = 0.00048). Genes within 50 Kbp from variants contributing to negative symptoms and suicide were enriched with GO terms involved in acetylcholine neurotransmission, cognition showed enrichment with GO terms involved in vitamin B6 and fucose metabolism while early onset with GO terms related to extracellular matrix structure. PRS showed nominal associations with violent behaviors and depressive symptoms. This study provided preliminary evidence that a schizophrenia‐associated variant (rs75059851) may modulate negative symptoms. Multi‐locus models may provide interesting insights about the biological mechanisms that mediate psychopathological dimensions.
Comparison of registry and government evaluation data to ascertain severe trauma cases in Japan
Authors: Nakahara Shinji , Sakamoto Tetsuya , Fujita Takashi , Koyama Tomohide , Katayama Yoichi , Tanabe Seizan , Yamamoto Yasuhiro
Published: August 2017

Aims

Accurate evaluation of health care quality requires high‐quality data, and case ascertainment (confirming eligible cases and deaths) is a foundation for accurate data collection. This study examined the accuracy of case ascertainment from two Japanese data sources.

Methods

Using hospital‐level data, we investigated the concordance in ascertaining trauma cases between a nationwide trauma registry (the Japan Trauma Data Bank) and annual government evaluations of tertiary hospitals between April 2012 and March 2013. We compared the median values for trauma case volumes, numbers of deaths, and case fatality rates from both data sources, and also evaluated the variability in discrepancies for the intrahospital differences of these outcomes.

Results

The analyses included 136 hospitals. In the registry and annual evaluation data, the median case volumes were 120.5 cases and 180.5 cases, respectively; the median numbers of deaths were 11 and 12, respectively; and the median case fatality rates were 8.1% and 6.4%, respectively. There was broad variability in the intrahospital differences in these outcomes.

Conclusions

The observed discordance between the two data sources implies that these data sources may have inaccuracies in case ascertainment. Measures are needed to evaluate and improve the accuracy of data from these sources.
Cooperative Supramolecular Polymerization of Fluorescent Platinum Acetylides for Optical Waveguide Applications
Authors: Wang Xiao , Han Yifei , Liu Yingying , Zou Gang , Gao Zhao , Wang Feng
Published: August 2017

One‐dimensional organic structures with well‐oriented π‐aggregation, strong emission, and ease of processability are desirable for optoelectronic waveguiding devices. Herein, a strategy is developed to attain this objective by self‐assembling platinum(II) acetylides into fluorescent supramolecular polymers via cooperative mechanism. The resulting high‐molecular‐weight supramolecular polymers are capable of forming electrospun microfibers with uniform geometry and smooth surface, which enable light propagation with extremely low scattering loss (0.008 dB μm−1). With the elaborate combination of bottom‐up supramolecular polymerization and top‐down electrospinning techniques, this work offers a novel and versatile avenue toward high‐performance optical waveguiding materials.
Produktion von Methanol und Ethanol aus Methan in einem einzigen Reaktor mit einem Nickeloxid auf Ceroxid‐Zirconiumoxid‐Katalysator
Authors: Okolie Chukwuemeka , Belhseine Yasmeen F. , Lyu Yimeng , Yung Matthew M. , Engelhard Mark H. , Kovarik Libor , Stavitski Eli , Sievers Carsten
Published: August 2017

Die Umwandlung von Methan in Alkohole unter milden Reaktionsbedingungen ist eine vielversprechende Technologie für die Nutzung abgelegener Methanvorkommen. Die flüssigen Alkohole können in Pipelines transportiert und zu wertvolleren Chemikalien weiterverarbeitet werden. Hier wird gezeigt, dass ein Katalysator aus Nickeloxidpartikeln auf einen Ceroxid‐Zirconiumoxid‐Träger (NiO/CZ) Methan in einem einzigen, kontinuierlich betriebenen Reaktor zu Methanol und Ethanol umwandeln kann. Die Reaktion geschieht bei milden Temperaturen (723 K) mit O2 als Oxidationsmittel. Die Produktion von Alkoholen erfordert die Gegenwart von Wasserdampf, um die vollständige Oxidation zu CO2 zu unterdrücken. Die Synergie zwischen Lewis‐aciden NiO‐Partikeln und dem redoxaktiven Ceroxid‐Zirconiumoxid‐Träger ermöglicht die ungewöhnliche Reaktivität dieses Katalysators.
Von der Präzisionssynthese von Blockcopolymeren zu Eigenschaften und Anwendungen von funktionellen Nanopartikeln
Authors: Li Xiao , Iocozzia James , Chen Yihuang , Zhao Shiqiang , Cui Xun , Wang Wei , Yu Haifeng , Lin Shaoliang , Lin Zhiqun
Published: August 2017

Anorganische Nanopartikel haben sich aufgrund ihrer besonderen Eigenschaften auf zahlreichen Gebieten zu einem Forschungsschwerpunkt entwickelt. Die Steuerung der Größe und Form von Nanopartikeln ist ein wesentlicher Aspekt ihrer Synthese. Die Herstellung von anorganischen Nanopartikeln mithilfe von Blockcopolymer‐Templaten ist einer der sichersten Wege zur Einstellung der Größe und Form von Nanopartikeln mit hoher Präzision. In diesem Aufsatz erörtern wir die neuesten Fortschritte bei der Entwicklung von Blockcopolymer‐Templaten für die Herstellung von sphärischen anorganischen Nanopartikeln, die kompakte, hohle und Kern‐Schale‐Nanopartikel umfassen. Als Template dienen zum einen Micellen, die durch Selbstorganisation von linearen Blockcopolymeren gebildet werden, und zum anderen unimolekulare sternförmige Blockcopolymere. Neben der präzisen Steuerung der Größe und Morphologie werden auch nützliche Eigenschaften und Anwendungen solcher anorganischer Nanopartikel angesprochen.
Divergent C–H Annulation for Multifused N‐Heterocycles: Regio‐ and Stereospecific Cyclizations of N‐Alkynylindoles
Authors: Alam Khyarul , Hong Sung Won , Oh Kyung Hwan , Park Jin Kyoon
Published: August 2017

N‐Alkynylindoles were divergently cyclized for the synthesis of multifused N‐heterocycles. An ortho‐aryl palladium species was added to the α position of an ynamine to generate (Z)‐6‐alkylidene/benzylidene‐6H‐isoindolo[2,1‐a]indoles, while Pt‐catalyzed β‐addition through π‐activation gave 5‐alkyl/arylindolo[2,1‐a]isoquinolines. Double cyclizations using PdCl2 and oxidant afforded bright yellow benzo[7,8]indolizino[2,3,4,5‐ija]quinolines, the synthesis of which was also demonstrated in a different synthetic route.
Synthesis, characterization and application of alumina/ vanadium pentoxide nanocomposit by sol–gel method
Authors: Hassani Hassan , Zakerinasab Batol , Hossien Poor Hoda
Published: August 2017

In this work, we report the preparation of Al2O3/V2O5 nanocomposit using vanadium and aluminum nitrate by sol–gel method. Characterization of nanocomposit was carried out by powder X‐ray diffractometry (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy‐Dispersive X‐ray (EDX) and UV spectroscopy. Then, applicability of the synthesized nanocomposit was tested as a nanocatalyst for the synthesis of diindolyl oxindole derivatives, an important class of potentially bioactive compounds. The products were obtained in good to high yields from one‐pot three‐component condensation of isatin with indole. Also, this nanocatalyst has been reused several times, without observable loss of activity.
Facile Chemoselective synthesis of 2‐(2‐(Methoxycarbonyl)‐3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydrobenzofuran‐2‐yl)benzoic acids and 3H,3’H‐Spiro[benzofuran‐2,1′‐isobenzofuran]‐3,3′‐dione derivatives
Authors: Firoozi Neda , Roshan Zohreh , Mohammadizadeh Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2017

Oxidation of some derivatives of 4b,9b–dihydroxyindeno[1,2‐b]benzofuran‐10‐one have been investigated in detail using lead(IV) acetate in acetic acid under reflux conditions and periodic acid in aqueous ethanol at room temperature. We realized that during the first 5–15 minutes of the oxidation reactions in lead(IV) acetate/acetic acid system, 3H,3’H‐spiro[benzofuran‐2,1′‐isobenzofuran]‐3,3′‐dione derivatives have been synthesized chemo selectively, while, if the reaction mixtures stirred for additional 3 hours, the main products would be 2‐(2‐(Methoxycarbonyl)‐3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydrobenzofuran‐2‐yl)benzoic acids. Moreover, room temperature oxidation of 4b,9b–dihydroxyindeno[1,2‐b]benzofuran‐10‐ones by periodic acid (H5IO6), leads to the formation of 3H,3’H‐spiro[benzofuran‐2,1′‐isobenzofuran]‐3,3′‐dione derivatives in good to excellent yields.
Ni(II)‐Adenine complex coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles as high reusable nanocatalyst for the synthesis of polyhydroquinoline derivatives and oxidation reactions
Authors: Tamoradi Taiebeh , Ghadermazi Mohammad , Ghorbani‐Choghamarani Arash
Published: August 2017

In the present study, Fe3O4 nanoparticles were prepared via simple and versatile procedure. Then, a novel and green catalyst was synthesized by the immobilization of Ni on Fe3O4 nanoparticles coated with adenine. The activity of this nanostructure compound was examined for the oxidation of sulfides, oxidative coupling of thiols and synthesis of polyhydroquinolines. The prepared catalyst was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) measurements. This organometallic catalyst was recovered by the assistance of an external magnetic field from the reaction mixture and reused for seven continuous cycles without noticeable change in its catalytic activity.
Functionalization in copolymers based on 4VP:DVB for the removal of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solution
Authors: Ortiz‐Palacios Jesús , Cardoso Judith , de la Cruz Marcos , Anleu Eloisa
Published: August 2017

Adsorption capacity for Cr(VI) ions has been evaluated on two ion‐exchange resins. A gel‐type precursor resin was obtained by suspension polymerization of 4‐vinylpyridine and divinylbenzene monomers with 40% crosslinking degree. It was quaternized with different functional groups to give two ion‐exchange resins. The R2 resin contained sulfobetaine groups, and R3 methyl groups. The resins were characterized by Fourier transform infrared and solid‐state 13C CP/MAS NMR spectroscopy and by elemental analysis. An adsorption experiment was carried out by a batch equilibrium procedure. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were used to determine the adsorption capacity. R2 and R3 resins exhibited maximum adsorption capacity qmax = 75.8 and 56.2 mg/g, respectively. The resins achieve equilibrium in 60 min. The R3 and R2 resins showed a retention capacity of 95% and 80% for the Cr(VI) ions, respectively. The behaviors of both resins were explained well by a pseudo‐second‐order kinetics model. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45548.
Simulation of the morphological structures of electrospun membranes
Authors: Feng Yan , Sun Runjun , Chen Meiyu , Liu Chengkun , Wang Qiushi
Published: August 2017

In this study, we proposed a model for the morphological structure of electrospun membranes; it was different from the random distribution of fibers in a nonwoven. On the basis of our observation and analysis of the jet path by a high‐speed camera and the electrospun membranes by scanning electron microscopy, we proposed the base circle/deposition circle model of electrospun membranes. The base circle was used to position the deposition circles. The deposition circles, distributed on or around the base circle at a specific proportion, represented the distribution of the electrospun fibers on the collector. The pore characteristics and fiber distribution were compared between the electrospun membrane and simulated membranes with different spinning times; this verified that they had similar distribution trends. A membrane was simulated with a similar magnification ratio to the actual membrane. This further verified the model. This model could be used for the homogeneity simulation of an electrospun membrane in multinozzle electrospinning, and this may be helpful for predicting electrospun membranes in practical applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45653.
On‐Surface Self‐Assembly of a C3‐Symmetric π‐Conjugated Molecule Family Studied by STM: Two‐Dimensional Nanoporous Frameworks
Authors: Dai Hongliang , Wang Shuai , Hisaki Ichiro , Nakagawa Shoichi , Ikenaka Nobuaki , Deng Ke , Xiao Xunwen , Zeng Qingdao
Published: August 2017

The on‐surface self‐assembled behavior of four C3‐symmetric π‐conjugated planar molecules (Tp, T12, T18, and Ex) has been investigated. These molecules are excellent building blocks for the construction of noncovalent organic frameworks in the bulk phase. Their hydrogen‐bonded 2D on‐surface self‐assemblies are observed under STM at the solid/liquid interface; these structures are very different to those in the bulk crystal. Upon combining the results of STM measurements and DFT calculations, the formation mechanism of different assemblies is revealed; in particular, the critical role of hydrogen bonding in the assemblies. This research provides us with not only a deep insight into the self‐assembled behavior of these novel functional molecules, but also a convenient approach toward the construction of 2D multiporous networks.
Leistungskriterien für Innenraumputze vor dem Hintergrund des Klimawandels und des Nutzerkomforts
Authors: Kleber Michael , Umminger Martin , Brecht Benedict , Vogel Michael , Haist Michael , Müller Harald S. , Schipper Janus W. , Wagner Andreas
Published: August 2017

Aktuelle Klimaprojektionen gehen davon aus, dass die sommerlichen Temperaturen bedingt durch den Klimawandel steigen werden, die Luftfeuchte sich erhöhen wird und Extremwettersituationen in ihrer Häufigkeit zunehmen werden. Feuchtwarme (schwüle) Bedingungen werden insbesondere in Wohnräumen den Komfort der Bewohner und Nutzer beeinträchtigen. Ziel der hier vorgestellten Studie ist es, Anforderungskriterien für die technischen Eigenschaften „klimaaktiver“ Innenputze zu entwickeln, die durch ihr Feuchteaufnahme‐, ‐speicher und ‐abgabevermögen dazu geeignet sind, das Innenraumklima positiv zu beeinflussen. Die bisherigen Untersuchungen zeigen, dass angepasste Eigenschaften derartiger Putze die Feuchteregulierung und damit den Komfort verbessern können. Dafür relevante Simulationen und Experimente werden präsentiert. Es erfolgt eine Anpassung der in der Normung empfohlenen Grenzwerte für die Luftfeuchte bei sommerlichen Temperaturen und deren beispielhafte Anwendung auf die Simulationsergebnisse.
Apoptosis, Expression of PAX3 and P53, and Caspase Signal in Fetuses with Neural Tube Defects
Authors: Wang Linlin , Lin Shanshan , Yi Deqing , Huang Yun , Wang Caiyun , Jin Lei , Liu Jufen , Zhang Yali , Ren Aiguo
Published: August 2017

Background

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are among the most common and severe congenital malformations of the central nervous system. Animal studies have shown that apoptosis is involved in the development of NTDs. However, little evidence is available from human studies. We aim to examine the level of apoptosis and expression of apoptosis‐regulating proteins of human terminated fetuses.

Methods

A total of 37 NTD cases and 21 controls from pregnancy terminations were recruited. Tissues of the central nervous system were obtained through autopsy. Apoptosis of neuroepithelial cells was examined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated deoxyuridinetriphosphate nick end‐labeling (TUNEL) assay. Expression of PAX3, p53, and caspase 3/8/9 in central nervous tissue was measured using Western blotting.

Results

More TUNEL‐positive apoptosis cells were observed in the central nervous tissue of NTD cases than those of controls (p < 0.05). In spinal cord tissue, lower PAX3 expression, higher p53 expression, and increased levels of cleaved caspase 3(17kD) and cleaved caspase 8 (18kD) were found in anencephaly cases but not in spina bifida cases when compared with controls. In brain tissue, levels of PAX3 were significantly reduced in both encephalocele and spina bifida subtypes; the expression levels of cleaved caspase 3(17 kD) of encephalocele cases and cleaved caspase 8(47/45 kD) in spina bifida cases were higher than in controls; no difference was found in the expression of p53 or caspase 9 between NTDs and controls.

Conclusion

These findings provide some evidence that excessive apoptosis in fetal central nervous tissues may be associated with the development of human NTDs. Birth Defects Research 109:1596–1604, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bayesian joint modeling of bivariate longitudinal and competing risks data: An application to study patient‐ventilator asynchronies in critical care patients
Authors: Rué Montserrat , Andrinopoulou Eleni‐Rosalina , Alvares Danilo , Armero Carmen , Forte Anabel , Blanch Lluis
Published: August 2017

Mechanical ventilation is a common procedure of life support in intensive care. Patient‐ventilator asynchronies (PVAs) occur when the timing of the ventilator cycle is not simultaneous with the timing of the patient respiratory cycle. The association between severity markers and the events death or alive discharge has been acknowledged before, however, little is known about the addition of PVAs data to the analyses. We used an index of asynchronies (AI) to measure PVAs and the SOFA (sequential organ failure assessment) score to assess overall severity. To investigate the added value of including the AI, we propose a Bayesian joint model of bivariate longitudinal and competing risks data. The longitudinal process includes a mixed effects model for the SOFA score and a mixed effects beta regression model for the AI. The survival process is defined in terms of a cause‐specific hazards model for the competing risks death or alive discharge. Our model indicates that the SOFA score is strongly related to vital status. PVAs are positively associated with alive discharge but there is not enough evidence that PVAs provide a more accurate indication of death prognosis than the SOFA score alone.
Three‐Dimensional Laminin Mimetic Peptide Nanofiber Gels for In Vitro Neural Differentiation
Authors: Gunay Gokhan , Sever Melike , Tekinay Ayse B. , Guler Mustafa O.
Published: August 2017

The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides biochemical signals and structural support for cells, and its functional imitation is a fundamental aspect of biomaterial design for regenerative medicine applications. The stimulation of neural differentiation by a laminin protein‐derived epitope in two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) environments is investigated. The 3D gel system is found to be superior to its 2D counterpart for the induction of neural differentiation, even in the absence of a crucial biological inducer in nerve growth factor (NGF). In addition, cells cultured in 3D gels exhibits a spherical morphology that is consistent with their form under in vivo conditions. Overall, the present study underlines the impact of bioactivity, dimension, and NGF addition, as well as the cooperative effects thereof, on the neural differentiation of PC‐12 cells. These results underline the significance of 3D culture systems in the development of scaffolds that closely replicate in vivo environments for the formation of cellular organoid models in vitro.
INSIDIA: A FIJI Macro Delivering High‐Throughput and High‐Content Spheroid Invasion Analysis
Authors: Moriconi Chiara , Palmieri Valentina , Di Santo Riccardo , Tornillo Giusy , Papi Massimiliano , Pilkington Geoff , De Spirito Marco , Gumbleton Mark
Published: August 2017

Time‐series image capture of in vitro 3D spheroidal cancer models embedded within an extracellular matrix affords examination of spheroid growth and cancer cell invasion. However, a customizable, comprehensive and open source solution for the quantitative analysis of such spheroid images is lacking. Here, the authors describe INSIDIA (INvasion SpheroID ImageJ Analysis), an open‐source macro implemented as a customizable software algorithm running on the FIJI platform, that enables high‐throughput high‐content quantitative analysis of spheroid images (both bright‐field gray and fluorescent images) with the output of a range of parameters defining the spheroid “tumor” core and its invasive characteristics.
Drug‐eluting stents versus coronary artery bypass grafting for left‐main coronary artery disease
Authors: Takagi Hisato , Ando Tomo , Umemoto Takuya ,   for the ALICE (All‐Literature Investigation of Cardiovascular Evidence) Group
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To compare follow‐up outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention with drug‐eluting stents (DES‐PCI) versus coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for left‐main coronary artery disease (LMCAD), we performed a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies with propensity‐score analysis.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched through November 2016. Eligible studies were RCTs or observational studies with propensity‐score analysis of DES‐PCI versus CABG enrolling patients with LMCAD and reporting ≥ 6‐month mortality, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or repeat revascularization (RRV). Study‐specific estimates were combined using inverse variance‐weighted averages of logarithmic hazard ratios (HRs) in the random‐effects model.

Results

We identified 5 RCTs and 17 observational studies with propensity‐score analysis enrolling a total of 12,387 patients. Pooled analysis demonstrated a significant increase in a composite of death, MI, and RRV (with/without stroke) after DES‐PCI (HR, 1.42; P < 0.00001); no significant difference in a composite of death and MI (with/without stroke); no significant differences in mortality and stroke; a strong trend toward an increase in MI after DES‐PCI (HR, 1.44; P = 0.05); and significant increases in any (HR, 1.86; P < 0.00001), target‐vessel (HR, 3.28; P < 0.00001), and target‐lesion RRV (HR, 2.26; P = 0.003) after DES‐PCI.

Conclusions

When compared with CABG, DES‐PCI for LMCAD was associated with increases in RRV and the composite of death, MI, and RRV (with/without stroke), despite no differences in mortality, MI, stroke, and the composite of death and MI (with/without stroke).