bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co‐culturing porcine normal urothelial cells, urinary bladder fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells for tissue engineering research
Authors: Zupančič Daša , Mrak Poljšak Katjuša , Kreft Mateja Erdani
Published: November 2017

New strategies for culturing and co‐culturing of the main types of urinary bladder cells are essential for successful establishment of biomimetic in vitro models, which could be applied for research into, and management of, diverse urological disorders. Porcine normal urothelial cells are available in nearly unlimited amounts and have many properties equivalent to human urothelial cells. In the present study, we established normal differentiated porcine urothelial cells in co‐cultures with porcine urinary bladder normal fibroblasts and/or smooth muscle cells. The optimal culture medium for establishment of differentiated urothelial cells, demonstrated by positive immunofluorescence of uroplakins, cytokeratins (CK 7, CK 20), zonula occludens 1 (ZO‐1), claudin 4, claudin 8, and E‐cadherin, was the medium composed of equal parts of Advanced Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (A‐DMEM) and MCDB 153 medium with physiological calcium concentration of 2.5 mM and without fetal bovine serum, named UroM (+Ca2+ − S). This medium was also proven to be suitable for culturing of bladder fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells and co‐culturing of urothelial cells with these mesenchymal cells. Urothelial cell differentiation was optimal in UroM (+Ca2+ − S) medium in all co‐culture conditions and when compared to all conditioned‐media combinations. To summarize, these strategies for culturing and co‐culturing of urinary bladder urothelial cells with mesenchymal cells could be used as new in vitro models for future basic and applicable research of the urinary bladder and thus potentially also for translational tissue engineering studies.
Aluminum Aryloxide Compounds as Very Active Catalysts for Glycidyl Methacrylate Selective Ring‐Opening Polymerization
Authors: Muñoz M. Teresa , Palenzuela Miguel , Cuenca Tomás , Mosquera Marta E. G.
Published: November 2017

New aluminum compounds of the type [AlXMe(OAr)]n [X=Me (1), Cl (2)] bearing the bulky ligand OAr=2,6‐bis(diphenylmethyl)‐4‐tert‐butylphenoxide were synthesized and characterized in the solid state and in solution. These compounds are mononuclear in solution. Their catalytic activity in glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) polymerization was explored. This monomer contains two different functionalities, oxirane and methacrylate, and, hence, could give functionalized polymers by ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) or vinyl polymerization. Catalysts 1 and 2 could selectively polymerize the oxirane functionality in minutes at room temperature, leaving the methacrylate group intact. Remarkably, 1 and 2 are the most active catalysts in ROP processes of GMA described so far.
Morphologically Cross‐Shaped Ru/HZSM‐5 Catalyzes Tandem Hydrogenolysis of Guaiacol to Benzene in Water
Authors: Zheng Zhaoxia , Luo Zhicheng , Zhao Chen
Published: November 2017

Hydrogenolysis of C−O bonds is an important tool for synthesis of valuable fuels and chemicals from biomass. In this contribution, we report that morphologically cross‐shaped HZSM‐5‐loaded Ru nanoparticles have demonstrated high activity in the selective hydrogenolysis of guaiacol to benzene in water with 97 % yield and a rate of 7.8 g g−1 h−1 accompanied with high durability. N2 sorption analysis showed that Ru/HZSM‐5 (cross‐shaped) had a large mesoporous surface area and pore volume for loading small and uniform Ru nanoparticles, as confirmed by TEM images. The stronger interaction of Ru and cross‐shaped HZSM‐5 was simultaneously confirmed by a higher hydrogen reduction temperature of RuO2 on calcined Ru/HZSM‐5, a blueshift of Ruδ+‐(CO)n, Ruδ+‐(CO), and Ru0‐(CO) species in the IR spectra of adsorbed CO, and a higher Ru 3d5/2 binding energy in X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. The reaction constant in guaiacol hydrogenolysis to phenol over cross‐shaped Ru/HZSM‐5 (0.051 min−1) was 3–4 times higher than that on spherical and cuboid Ru/HZSM‐5 (0.012–0.029 min−1) at identical conditions, attributed to the remarkable hydrogenolysis catalytic capability of Ru nanoparticles on cross‐shaped HZSM‐5. In addition, adsorption of guaiacol and hydrogen was more substantial on cross‐shaped Ru/HZSM‐5, as evidenced by of IR and mass spectroscopy, respectively. The higher adsorption of guaiacol is attributed to the abundant Lewis acid sites on cross‐shaped Ru/HZSM‐5, as the Al−OH enriched Lewis acid sites favor the adsorption of oxygen‐containing guaiacol. The higher rate constant in the primary step, together with the adsorbed high concentrated reactant and hydrogen (with nearly first‐order reaction kinetics) on cross‐shaped Ru/HZSM‐5, facilitates the overall tandem reaction, leading to an excellent hydrogenolysis catalyst working at hydrothermal conditions for biomass conversion.
A Novel Photo‐thermochemical Approach for Enhanced Carbon Dioxide Reforming of Methane
Authors: Pan Fuping , Xiang Xianmei , Deng Wei , Zhao Huilei , Feng Xuhui , Li Ying
Published: November 2017

We report a new approach for photo‐thermochemical CO2 (dry) reforming of methane (PTC‐DRM) to produce syngas by using concentrated sunlight as the energy input. A unique catalyst, Pt‐supported Si‐modified CeO2, was designed for this novel PTC‐DRM reaction by integrating photocatalytic and thermocatalytic effects, for which Pt was the thermocatalytic DRM catalyst and co‐catalyst for photocatalysis, CeO2 was the DRM support and semiconductor photocatalyst, and Si was the promoter and stabilizer. Under irradiation of the equivalent of 30 suns at 600 °C in 30 h, the production rates of H2 and CO reached stable levels of 90 and 154 mmol g−1 h−1, respectively, which were five and two times higher than those obtained in the dark at the same temperature. The significantly enhanced catalytic performance and stability under solar irradiation, resulting from synergy between the photocatalytic and thermocatalytic effects, demonstrates the feasibility of a new direction in low‐carbon fuel production from sunlight.
Influence of an Added Fraction of Hygroscopic Salt Particles on the Operating Behavior of Surface Filters for Dust Separation
Authors: Zhang Qian
Published: November 2017

An innovative approach to manipulating the operating behavior of surface filters for dust separation by raw gas conditioning using hygroscopic salt particles is described. The basis for a targeted manipulation of the operating behavior of surface filters is the fact that a favorable performance adjusts itself at long cycle times. These are obtained by a slow increase in pressure drop during the filtration phase and by a low residual pressure drop after the regeneration. Technically, such states can be realized by so‐called raw gas conditioning. The deliquescence and efflorescence properties of hygroscopic salt particles can be considered as possibilities for the formation of solid bridges between dust particles in the dust cake. With this concept, a flexible and targeted strengthening of the cohesion in the dust cake without an accompanying modification of the adhesion between the cake layer and the filter medium is theoretically possible.
Affinitive Poly(vinylidene difluoride) Membranes for Enhancing Au(III) Separation with Extremely High Selectivity
Authors: Wang Xiaomin , Li Lei , Yang Chuanfang
Published: November 2017

Thiourea‐poly(vinylidene difluoride) (Th‐PVDF) resin was synthesized and then cast into affinitive microporous membranes for Au(III) adsorption. The addition degree of thiourea to the resin was promoted from 22.6 % to 36.3 % when using NaOH as the catalyst. Higher addition degrees resulted in enhanced resin adsorption capacity. It also led to increased membrane hydrophilicity, higher membrane loading capacity, and membrane utilization efficiency. The membrane exhibited an extremely high selectivity toward Au(III) over other metal ions, and was easily regenerated for reuse without performance deterioration within four adsorption‐regeneration cycles. X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XRS) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation revealed that Au(III) was partially bonded to the membrane as gold chloride and partially reduced to Au(0) as gold particles.
A Coconut Leaf Sheath Derived Graphitized N‐Doped Carbon Network for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Jayakumar Anjali , Zhao Jun , Lee Jong‐Min
Published: November 2017

A highly graphitized nitrogen‐doped carbon network is synthesized from biomass, obtained from coconut tree leaf sheath and successfully demonstrates high energy storage properties for use in supercapacitors. A simple thermal physical activation in carbon dioxide atmosphere also enables the electrochemical activity of the carbon to be improved. A detailed study is carried out to understand the dependence of the electrochemical performance on parameters such as the concentration of urea used for doping, the activation temperature, and time of activation. An optimized sample is obtained to give a very high electrochemical performance. Our best sample, obtained by using a 0.5 M urea solution for doping, annealed at 700 °C under a N2 atmosphere and activated at an activation temperature of 800 °C under a CO2 atmosphere, named 0.5 M‐700 N‐800C, gave a very high specific capacitance of 360.9 F g−1 in 2 M KOH in the potential window of 0 to −1.1 V. This performance as a negative electrode exceeds the specific capacitance of graphene hydrogels (305 F g−1) that we prepared and is more than that of commercially available activated carbon 218.18 F g−1. Thus, it brings to light the possibility of using our material as an efficient, cheap substitute for negative electrode materials like graphene, carbon nanotubes, and activated carbon. This process is facile, extremely cheap, and environmental friendly, which utilizes urea, a non‐hazardous nitrogen dopant.
Controlled Pyrolysis of Ni‐MOF‐74 as a Promising Precursor for the Creation of Highly Active Ni Nanocatalysts in Size‐Selective Hydrogenation
Authors: Nakatsuka Kazuki , Yoshii Takeharu , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Mori Kohsuke , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: November 2017

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of porous organic‐inorganic crystalline materials that have attracted much attention as H2 storage devices and catalytic supports. In this paper, the synthesis of highly‐dispersed Ni nanoparticles (NPs) for the hydrogenation of olefins was achieved by employing Ni‐MOF‐74 as a precursor. Investigations of the structural transformation of Ni species derived from Ni‐MOF‐74 during heat treatment were conducted. The transformation was monitored in detail by a combination of XRD, in situ XAFS, and XPS measurements. Ni NPs prepared from Ni‐MOF‐74 were easily reduced by the generation of reducing gases accompanied by the decomposition of Ni‐MOF‐74 structures during heat treatment at over 300 °C under N2 flow. Ni‐MOF‐74‐300 exhibited the highest activity for the hydrogenation of 1‐octene due to efficient suppression of excess agglomerated Ni species during heat treatment. Moreover, Ni‐MOF‐74‐300 showed not only high activity for the hydrogenation of olefins but also high size‐selectivity because of the selective formation of Ni NPs covered by MOFs and the MOF‐derived carbonaceous layer.
Gaining Access to Bacteria through (Reversible) Control of Lipophilicity
Authors: Galstyan Anzhela , Putze Johannes , Dobrindt Ulrich
Published: November 2017

The development of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is highly dependent on the development of suitable photosensitizers (PSs); ideally, affinity of a PS towards bacterial cells should be much higher than that towards mammalian cells. A cationic charge on a PS may lead to its selective binding to bacteria mediated through electrostatic interaction; however, the photodynamic outcome is highly dependent on the lipophilicity of the PS. Herein, we report the aPDT effect of silicon(IV) phthalocyanine derivatives bearing four positive charges and methyl, phenyl, or naphthyl substituents at the periphery of the macrocycle. We show that through modulation of lipophilicity, it is possible to find a therapeutic window in which bacteria, but not mammalian cells, are effectively killed. The photobiological activity of these PSs was significantly lower when they were deployed as host–guest complexes with cucurbit[7]uril (CB[7]). CB[7] blocks the hydrophobic part of the PS and reduces its lipophilicity, indicating that a hydrophobic interaction with the outer membrane of bacterial cells is essential for aPDT activity. The efficacies of the obtained PSs have been evaluated by using different uropathogenic E. coli isolates and human kidney epithelial carcinoma cells.
Talking about women's sexual health after cancer: Why is it so hard to move the needle?
Authors: Reese Jennifer Barsky , Bober Sharon L. , Daly Mary B.
Published: November 2017

Despite increasing calls to integrate sexual health into routine cancer care, the majority of women diagnosed with cancer do not receive information regarding how their cancer treatments will affect their sexual health. With the significant challenges that exist to clinical discussion of sexual health, efforts on multiple fronts are needed to close the gap in the care of women diagnosed with cancer.
The impact of physical activity on fatigue and quality of life during and after adjuvant treatment for breast cancer
Authors: Manneville Florian , Rotonda Christine , Conroy Thierry , Bonnetain Franck , Guillemin Francis , Omorou Abdou Y.
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Although physical activity (PA) can alleviate fatigue and improve quality of life (QoL) in patients with breast cancer (BC), not all domains of PA may have equal impact. The objective of the current study was to examine the longitudinal impact of PA components on the evolution of fatigue and QoL during and after adjuvant treatment for BC.

METHODS

The women included in the study were participants in the 2‐year longitudinal FATSEIN (“Fatigue dans le cancer du Sein”) study. Fatigue and QoL were measured using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer 30‐item QoL questionnaire, respectively. Group‐based trajectory analysis was used to determine patterns of PA evolution (frequency, duration, and intensity). Cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations between PA patterns and fatigue and QoL were analyzed by using multivariable linear regression and a mixed model.

RESULTS

Among the 424 women who were included (mean ± standard deviation age, 57.1 ± 10.4 years), 2 trajectories were identified for each of the 3 PA components: low and insufficient frequency (51.2%) or regular and moderate frequency (48.8%), low and insufficient duration (47.6%) or regular and moderate duration (52.4%), and low intensity (47.2%) or low to moderate intensity (52.8%). Overall, during treatment, fatigue was increased and QoL was decreased, and the reverse was observed after treatment. During treatment, increased fatigue and decreased QoL were limited by regular PA frequency (β = −8.71 for total fatigue; β = 14.59 for emotional function), but the results were less significant after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

PA, especially its frequency, is an important determinant of fatigue and QoL during adjuvant treatment for BC. The promotion of regular PA among women who are receiving treatment for BC may be an effective way to reduce fatigue and improve QoL. Cancer 2018;124:797‐806. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Evaluation of hemodynamic performance of total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) with porous inserts
Authors: Dhayananth K. , Narasimhan Arunn
Published: November 2017

Infants born with univentricular heart disease undergo Fontan surgery to establish separate systemic and pulmonary circulations. This surgery results in better blood circulation across a single ventricle that supplies oxygenated blood to the body and passively returns venous blood to the lungs through the total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC). Reducing the pressure drop across the TCPC during Fontan circulation helps in reducing the work load of univentricular heart, and various designs have been proposed for this purpose. The goal of this work is to analyze the effect of placing a porous insert at an appropriate position in the pulmonary artery, on the pressure drop across the TCPC. A 3D computational model of a total TCPC connection provided with a porous insert is developed and solved by finite volume method, under assumptions of steady, laminar, and Newtonian flows. The effects of the porous medium properties—porosity and permeability—across the connection, are analyzed. Compared to the no‐porous medium case, TCPC with the porous medium insert exhibits a maximum reduction of 27% in energy loss for the flow range studied. The porous medium used in TCPC connection lowers the energy dissipation by curtailing the flow recirculation zones across the connection. The influences of the diameter of the blood vessel, total cardiac output, and the thickness, permeability, and position of porous media on energy loss are analyzed. The criteria to select the porous medium properties and position for a given Fontan geometry are also determined.
Enhanced Self‐Assembly Abilities Coupled with Nano‐ and Microscale Non‐Equilibrium Phenomena in Flowing Microfields
Authors: Numata Munenori , Nogami Rie , Kitamura Akitomo
Published: November 2017

Kinetically controlled self‐assemblies have the potential to produce unique supramolecules that are not accessible through conventional supramolecular strategies. However, this still remains a challenge for chemists owing to the lack of versatile and reliable methodologies. A straightforward way to control a kinetic process is to spontaneously change the micro‐environments surrounding the greater than thousands of self‐assembling molecules. Flowing solutions in microflow channels can provide fields for kinetically controlled self‐assemblies. So far, based on this concept, we have demonstrated that intermolecular interactions could be enhanced under rapid and uniform molecular diffusion environments in microflow channels. To show the generality of our developed self‐assembly system, herein, we have selected supramolecular polymerization of perylene bisimides (PBIs) dyes as a model. Amide‐appended PBI derivatives having various alkyl spacers (Cn=3, 4, 5, 6) have been selected as an ideal model. These PBIs have the potential to form intramolecular hydrogen bonds at bisimide edges (closed form). Remarkably, in the case of PBI (Cn=3), the closed form is less active toward self‐assembly due to steric hindrance of the peripheral dodecyl groups, while the non‐intramolecular hydrogen‐bonded (open) form is active for self‐assembly. The effective concentration of PBI (Cn=3) should be decreased under the equilibrium concentration. Throughout this paper, we have investigated whether microflow fields could influence the supramolecular polymerization processes of PBIs. It was found that the mole fraction of aggregated dye (αagg) drastically increased in the microflow field compared to the conventional vial process. Especially for PBI (Cn=3), effective self‐assemblies were achieved even at lower concentrations. Under the same conditions, self‐assembly did not occur in a vial. Furthermore, aggregation rates also accelerated in microflow. These results were reasonably responsible for reducing the activation energy required for nucleation. In other words, the microflow field raised the local concentration of activated PBI (Cn=3) toward nucleation. Throughout this paper, we have highlighted the importance of laminar flow from the viewpoint of a non‐equilibrium field. Firstly, it causes uniform molecular diffusion that would be essential for effective supramolecular polymerization (nucleation and elongation). In addition, laminar flow itself – a microscaled non‐equilibrium phenomenon – allowed preliminary supramolecular polymers to form a hierarchical assembly. These processes occurred along the microflow channel very rapidly.
A t/k diagnosis algorithm on hypercube‐like networks
Authors: Xie Min , Ye Liangcheng , Liang Jiarong
Published: November 2017

Processor fault diagnosis takes a key role in fault‐tolerant computing on multiprocessor systems. The t/k diagnosis strategy which is a generalization of the precise and pessimistic diagnosis strategies can significantly improve the self‐diagnosing capability of the system. Using this tool, it is possible to deal with large faults in the system. This paper presents a t/k diagnosis algorithm on n‐dimensional hypercube‐like networks (include Hypercubes, Crossed cubes, Möbius cubes, Locally Twisted cubes, and Twisted cubes) for any k∈[0,n−2]. The algorithm can correctly identify all nodes except at most k nodes undiagnosed. It runs in O(N) time, where N=2n is the total number of nodes of n‐dimensional hypercube‐like networks. To the best of our knowledge, in the case k≥4, there is no known t/k diagnosis algorithm for general diagnosable system or any specific system.
Isolation, Cryopreservation, and Immunophenotyping of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Lauer Fredine T. , Denson Jesse L. , Burchiel Scott W.
Published: November 2017

This unit describes procedures for the isolation, cryopreservation, and thawing of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (HPBMC) and analysis of cell surface markers (CSM) for immunophenotyping using polychromatic flow cytometry. This methodology can be used to ensure that cell integrity and phenotype stability are not altered through cryopreservation and extended storage. For this analysis, HPBMC were isolated from 7 healthy individuals, and 11‐color flow cytometry was performed on freshly isolated samples as well as samples cryopreserved for short‐ and long‐term periods. There is no significant difference in the percentage of cells expressing the CSM CD3, CD4, CD8, CD45RO, CD16, CD19, or CD56 between freshly isolated and cryopreserved HPBMC. Hence, cryopreservation of HPBMC does not influence the phenotype of distinct cellular subsets in isolated mononuclear cells. This protocol for HPBMC isolation, cryopreservation, and thawing of HPBMC is intended for long‐term studies of large cohorts requiring sample shipment and subsequent batch analysis. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Co‐Culture of Neurons and Microglia
Authors: Roqué Pamela J. , Costa Lucio G.
Published: November 2017

Microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, have been implicated in numerous neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. Activation of microglia by a variety of stimuli induces the release of factors, including pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, that contribute to modulating neuro‐inflammation and oxidative stress, two crucial processes linked to disorders of the central nervous system. The in vitro techniques described here will provide a set of protocols for the isolation and plating of primary cerebellar granule neurons, primary cortical microglia from a mixed glia culture, and methods for co‐culturing both cell types. These methods allow the study of how microglia and the factors they release in this shared environment mediate the effects of toxicants on neuronal function and survival. The protocols presented here allow for flexibility in experimental design, the study of numerous toxicological endpoints, and the opportunity to explore neuroprotective strategies. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC‐MS) for Identification of Designer Stimulants Including 2C Amines, NBOMe Compounds, and Cathinones in Urine
Authors: Ketha Hemamalini , Webb Milad , Clayton Larry , Li Sean
Published: November 2017

Phenethylamine derivatives are being increasingly exploited for recreational use as “designer” stimulants designed to mimic psychostimulant properties of amphetamine or other illicit substances like 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA [ecstasy]). Clandestine operations meticulously design phenethylamines so the user can bypass legal action when detected, as many of these are yet to be regulated by government authorities. Substituted phenethylamines or 2C amines, N‐methoxybenzyl derivatives of the corresponding 2C amines commonly known as NBOMe compounds, and cathinones are among the most commonly abused phenethylamines. Current FDA‐approved assays used in screening for illicit drug use lack the sensitivity needed to detect designer stimulants making it challenging for toxicologists to accurately identify these compounds. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) is a sensitive method for identifying designer stimulants. This unit describes and compares two qualitative GC‐MS methods for identifying 2C amines, NBOMe compounds, and cathinones in urine. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Overview of Neurotoxicology
Authors: Costa Lucio G.
Published: November 2017

The nervous system has a central and primary function in the body, and its relevance and complexity make it a target for a large number of toxic substances. The most common forms of neurotoxicity are the death of neurons (neuronopathy), the degeneration of axons (axonopathy), damage to glial cells (e.g., myelinopathy), and interference with the axonal membrane or neurotransmission. Important neurotoxicants are found among pesticides, metals, solvents, natural substances, and industrial chemicals. Environmental chemicals may also contribute to the etiopathogenesis of neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders. Specific testing guidelines exist to assess potential neurotoxicity and developmental neurotoxicity in particular, and novel alternative testing approaches are being developed. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Isocyanate‐Free Approach to Water‐Borne Polyurea Dispersions and Coatings
Authors: Ma Shuang , van Heeswijk Ellen P. A. , Noordover Bart A. J. , Sablong Rafaël J. , van Benthem Rolf A. T. M. , Koning Cor E.
Published: November 2017

Here, an isocyanate‐free approach to produce polyureas from diamines and dicarbamates as monomers is reported. A side reaction limiting the molecular weight during the diamine/ dicarbamate polymerization, that is, N‐alkylation of amine end groups, is investigated. Mitigation of the N‐alkylation, either by enhancing the carbamate aminolysis rate or by substitution of dimethylcarbamates with more sterically hindered diethylcarbamates, affords polyureas with sufficiently high molecular weights to assure satisfactory mechanical properties. Stable polyurea dispersions with polyamines as internal dispersing agents are prepared, and the properties of the corresponding coatings are evaluated.
Exploring resistive switching‐based memristors in the charge–flux domain: A modeling approach
Authors: Al Chawa M. Moner , Picos Rodrigo , Roldan Juan B. , Jimenez‐Molinos Francisco , Villena Marco Antonio , de Benito Carol
Published: November 2017

We analyzed resistive switching‐based memristors by using the charge–flux relations instead of the traditional current–voltage approach. We employed simulated and experimental data to develop a model that can be easily included in circuit simulators. Physical simulations of devices with different conductive filament sizes were employed to fit the 3‐parameter model introduced. Later on, the relations between the model parameters and the conductive filament geometrical features were characterized in‐depth. In addition, a model to obtain the energy employed in the reset process was presented. Finally, we used the model to estimate the experimental conductive filament radius distribution using a set of 3000 reset cycles. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Telecytology: Is it possible with smartphone images?
Authors: Sahin Davut , Hacisalihoglu Uguray Payam , Kirimlioglu Saime Hale
Published: November 2017

Introduction

This study aimed to discuss smartphone usage in telecytology and determine intraobserver concordance between microscopic cytopathological diagnoses and diagnoses derived via static smartphone images.

Methods

The study was conducted with 172 cytologic material. A pathologist captured static images of the cytology slides from the ocular lens of a microscope using a smartphone. The images were transferred via WhatsApp® to a cytopathologist working in another center who made all the microscopic cytopathological diagnoses 5‐27 months ago. The cytopathologist diagnosed images on a smartphone without knowledge of their previous microscopic diagnoses. The Kappa agreement between microscopic cytopathological diagnoses and smartphone image diagnoses was determined.

Results

The average image capturing, transfer, and remote cytopathological diagnostic time for one case was 6.20 minutes. The percentage of cases whose microscopic and smartphone image diagnoses were concordant was 84.30%, and the percentage of those whose diagnoses were discordant was 15.69%. The highest Kappa agreement was observed in endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration (1.000), and the lowest agreement was observed in urine cytology (0.665). Patient management changed with smart phone image diagnoses at 11.04%.

Conclusions

This study showed that easy, fast, and high‐quality image capturing and transfer is possible from cytology slides using smartphones. The intraobserver Kappa agreement between the microscopic cytopathological diagnoses and remote smartphone image diagnoses was high. It was found that remote diagnosis due to difficulties in telecytology might change patient management. The developments in the smartphone camera technology and transfer software make them efficient telepathology and telecytology tools.
The relation between patient characteristics and their carers’ use of a directive versus collaborative support stance
Authors: Geller Josie , Iyar Megumi , Srikameswaran Suja , Zelichowska Joanna , Zhou Yuan , Dunn Erin C.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Collaborative support provided by carers (family and friends) of individuals with eating disorders has been shown to be integral to patient motivation and clinical outcome. Little is known about factors that contribute to carers’ use of collaborative, as opposed to directive, support stance. This exploratory research investigated associations between patient characteristics and carers’ support beliefs and behaviors.

Method

Eating disorder patients (n = 72) completed measures of readiness for change, eating disorder, and psychiatric symptom severity, and interpersonal functioning. Their carers (n = 72) completed measures of collaborative and directive support.

Results

Patient demographic variables, readiness for change, and psychiatric symptom severity were not associated with carer beliefs or behaviors. However, some patient interpersonal functioning scores were; higher Domineering/Controlling scores were associated with carers viewing directive support as more helpful, and with their use of more directive support behaviors. Higher Vindictive/Self‐Centered and Intrusive/Needy scores in patients were also associated with carers viewing directive support as more helpful.

Discussion

This exploratory study suggests that carers may be more prone to utilizing a directive, rather than a collaborative, support stance with patients experiencing higher levels of threat, anger, and hostility, and lower levels of safety, closeness, and trust.
CuII Frameworks from Di‐2‐pyridyl Ketone and Benzene‐1,3,5‐triphosphonic Acid
Authors: Fidelli Athena M. , Armakola Eirini , Demadis Konstantinos D. , Kessler Vadim G. , Escuer Albert , Papaefstathiou Giannis S.
Published: November 2017

In our effort to develop new synthetic strategies for the isolation of new phosphonate frameworks, we exploited the possibility of simultaneously utilizing benzene‐1,3,5‐triphosphonic acid (H6btp) and di‐2‐pyridyl ketone (py2CO), which is a major player in the field of polynuclear metal complexes. This ligand blend in CuII chemistry afforded a 2D framework comprising tetranuclear [CuII4] secondary building units. A thorough investigation of the CuII/di‐2‐pyridyl ketone/benzene‐1,3,5‐triphosphonic acid reaction system also revealed a hydrogen‐bonded framework. The structure of the latter comprises the cationic [Cu{py2C(OH)2}2]2+ complex [py2C(OH)2 is the hydrate of py2CO], the dianion of benzene‐1,3,5‐triphosphonic acid (H4btp2–) and water solvates. The magnetic properties of the coordination polymer were rationalized on the basis of magnetically isolated [CuII4] units dominated by antiferromagnetic interactions.
3D‐printed Microfluidic Device Based on Cotton Threads for Amperometric Estimation of Antioxidants in Wine Samples
Authors: Carneiro Emmanuelle A. , Agustini Deonir , Figueiredo‐Filho Luiz C. S. , Banks Craig E. , Marcolino‐Junior Luiz Humberto , Bergamini Márcio F.
Published: November 2017

The present work describes the evaluation of microfluidic electroanalytical devices constructed by a 3D printer using ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) polymer combined with cotton threads as microchannels. Screen‐printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs) were used as electrochemical detector for amperometric determination of gallic and caffeic acid in wine samples. Using optimal experimental conditions (flow rate of 0.71 μL s−1, applied potential of +0.30 V and volume of injection of 2.0 μL) the proposed method presented a linear response for a concentration range of 5.0×10−6 to 1.0×10−3 mol L−1. The detection limits for gallic and caffeic acid were found to 1.5×10−6 mol L−1 and 8.0×10−7 mol L−1, respectively, with a sample throughput of 43 h−1. The achieved results are in agreement with those found using the official Folin‐Ciocaulteu method.
Oxidative stress and inflammation mediate the effect of air pollution on cardio‐ and cerebrovascular disease: A prospective study in nonsmokers
Authors: Fiorito Giovanni , Vlaanderen Jelle , Polidoro Silvia , Gulliver John , Galassi Claudia , Ranzi Andrea , Krogh Vittorio , Grioni Sara , Agnoli Claudia , Sacerdote Carlotta , Panico Salvatore , Tsai Ming‐Yi , Probst‐Hensch Nicole , Hoek Gerard , Herceg Zdenko , Vermeulen Roel , Ghantous Akram , Vineis Paolo , Naccarati Alessio ,   for the EXPOsOMICS consortium
Published: November 2017

Air pollution is associated with a broad range of adverse health effects, including mortality and morbidity due to cardio‐ and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVD), but the molecular mechanisms involved are not entirely understood. This study aims to investigate the involvement of oxidative stress and inflammation in the causal chain, and to identify intermediate biomarkers that are associated retrospectively with the exposure and prospectively with the disease. We designed a case‐control study on CCVD nested in a cohort of 18,982 individuals from the EPIC‐Italy study. We measured air pollution, inflammatory biomarkers, and whole‐genome DNA methylation in blood collected up to 17 years before the diagnosis. The study sample includes all the incident CCVD cases among former‐ and never‐smokers, with available stored blood sample, that arose in the cohort during the follow‐up. We identified enrichment of altered DNA methylation in “ROS/Glutathione/Cytotoxic granules” and “Cytokine signaling” pathways related genes, associated with both air pollution (multiple comparisons adjusted p for enrichment ranging from 0.01 to 0.03 depending on pollutant) and with CCVD risk (P = 0.04 and P = 0.03, respectively). Also, Interleukin‐17 was associated with higher exposure to NO2 (P = 0.0004), NOx (P = 0.0005), and CCVD risk (OR = 1.79; CI 1.04–3.11; P = 0.04 comparing extreme tertiles). Our findings indicate that chronic exposure to air pollution can lead to oxidative stress, which in turn activates a cascade of inflammatory responses mainly involving the “Cytokine signaling” pathway, leading to increased risk of CCVD. Inflammatory proteins and DNA methylation alterations can be detected several years before CCVD diagnosis in blood samples, being promising preclinical biomarkers. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:234–246, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The information content of option‐implied tail risk on the future returns of the underlying asset
Authors: Wang Yaw‐Huei , Yen Kuang‐Chieh
Published: November 2017

We compile option‐implied tail loss and gain measures based on a deep out‐of‐the‐money option pricing formula derived by applying “extreme value theory,” and then use these measures to investigate the information content of option‐implied tail risk on the future returns of the underlying assets. Our empirical analysis shows that both tail measures implied by S&P 500 and VIX options can predict future changes in the corresponding underlying assets and are informative on the future returns of the S&P 500 index. The relationships are particularly strong during periods of economic recession and driven by the tail‐risk premium.
Holocene climate change inferred from grain‐size analysis in the eastern Alashan Plateau, Inner Mongolia, Northern China
Authors: Chen Shu‐E , Fan Shuang‐Hu , Liu Xiu‐Hua
Published: November 2017

A grain‐size analysis in Tonggunao sedimentary profile indicated that 6 arid and 6 wet episodes have been detected in the Holocene, reflecting millennium‐scale climate change. The study area is located in the eastern Alashan Plateau, with the Helan Mountains to the east and the Tengger Desert to the west. It has a vulnerable natural ecology that is sensitive to environmental and climatic changes. The rapid climatic changes revealed by the analysis may be representative of the global climate‐change pattern during the Holocene.
Late Triassic Dabie–Sulu Orocline: New exhumation model of the HP–UHP rocks
Authors: Guo Runhua , Li Sanzhong , Suo Yanhui , Li Xi‐Yao , Liu Xiaoguang , Zhou Zaizheng , Guo Lingli , Wang Qian , Somerville Ian
Published: November 2017

The Dabie–Sulu orogen is located in the eastern segment of the Central China Orogen between the North China Block (NCB) and the South China Block (SCB). The complex processes of break‐up and assemblage among the continental blocks of East Asia caused them to undergo multiple‐stage continental collisions. It is extremely important for the final kinematics and dynamics of convergence and collision among continental blocks to explore the exhumation mechanism of the HP (high pressure)‐UHP (ultra‐high pressure) metamorphic rocks. Therefore, this paper focuses on the final collisional process and tries to find a reasonable exhumation mechanism of the HP–UHP rocks. On the basis of the structural geology, petrology, seismic tomography, palaeomagnetism, and mathematical calculation, we propose a south‐eastward subduction of the NCB under the SCB in the Indosinian, and the Sulu Orogen actually became an orocline. This was caused by continuous south‐eastward subduction and the subsequent westward‐retreating delamination of the NCB slab. Coevally, it produced a two‐stage exhumation process, a vertical extrusion during the first stage (240–220 Ma) and an eastward extrusion controlled by an oroclinal contraction at the second stage (220–200 Ma).
Hairy and enhancer of split 6 prevents hepatic lipid accumulation through inhibition of Pparg2 expression
Authors: Park Jung Eun , Lee Mikang , Kim Seong‐Chul , Zhang Yanqiao , Hardwick James P. , Lee Yoon Kwang
Published: November 2017

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a master regulator for white adipocyte differentiation and lipid storage. The increased level of hepatic PPARγ2 isoform reprograms liver for lipid storage and causes abnormal fat accumulation in certain pathophysiologic conditions. The current study aimed to investigate a role of transcriptional repressor hairy and enhancer of split 6 (HES6) in the regulation of Pparg2 expression and hepatic steatosis induced by diet. Liver‐specific overexpression of Hes6 using adenovirus reduced Pparg2 messenger RNA levels by 90% and hepatic triglyceride accumulation by 22% compared to the levels in mice injected with an adenoviral empty vector with Western diet feeding. In sharp contrast, silencing Hes6 gene expression using short hairpin RNA increased hepatic lipid accumulation and Pparg2 messenger RNA levels by 70% and 4‐fold, respectively. To locate hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4α) binding site(s), through which repressional activity of HES6 is mediated, a 2.5‐kb Pparg2 promoter‐driven luciferase reporter was constructed for transient transfection assays. Subsequently, chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assays were performed. An HNF4α binding consensus sequence was identified at 903 base pairs upstream from the transcription start site of Pparg2. Deletion or point mutation of the sequence in a luciferase reporter containing the Pparg2 promoter abolished HNF4α‐mediated activation in HeLa cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assays further confirmed direct recruitment and binding of HNF4α to the site. Gene expression analysis with liver samples from subjects with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis suggested that the axis of the Hes6–Hnf4a–Pparg2 transcriptional cascade is also responsible for hepatic fat accumulation in humans. Conclusion: HES6 represses Pparg2 gene expression, thereby preventing hepatic lipid accumulation induced by chronic Western diet feeding or pathophysiologic conditions. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:1085–1098)
Type‐1 astrocyte‐like stem cells harboring Cacna1d gene deletion exhibit reduced proliferation and decreased neuronal fate choice
Authors: Völkening Bianca , Schönig Kai , Kronenberg Golo , Bartsch Dusan , Weber Tillmann
Published: November 2017

In the central nervous system, CaV1.2 and CaV1.3 constitute the main L‐type voltage‐gated calcium channels (LTCCs) coupling membrane depolarization to gene transcription. We have previously demonstrated that inducible disruption of Cav1.2 in type‐1 astrocyte‐like stem cells of the adult dentate gyrus (DG) impairs hippocampal neurogenesis in a cell‐autonomous fashion. To address the role of Cav1.3 channels (encoded by the Cacna1d gene), we here generated TgGLAST‐CreERT2/Cacna1dfl/fl/RCE:loxP mice which facilitate inducible deletion of Cacna1d in tandem with induction of EGFP expression in type‐1 cells, allowing tracking of recombined cells and their descendants. Neurosphere cultures derived from fluorescence‐activated cell sorting sorted Cacna1d‐deficient (Cacna1d‐/‐/EGFP) hippocampal neural precursor cells (NPCs) exhibited a significant decrease in proliferative activity. Further, under differentiation conditions, Cacna1d deficiency conferred an increase in astrogenesis at the expense of neurogenesis. In like manner, type‐1 cells lacking Cacna1d showed reduced proliferation in the dentate gyrus (DG) in vivo. Moreover, Cacna1d deficiency resulted in a significant decrease in the number of newly born cells adopting a neuronal fate. Finally, massive excitation induced by repeated electroconvulsive seizures rescued the proliferation defect of Cacna1d‐/‐/EGFP type‐1 cells. Together, the effects of Cacna1d gene deletion closely recapitulate our earlier findings on the role of Cav1.2 channels expressed by type‐1 cells. Similar to Cav1.2 channels, Cav1.3 channels on type‐1 cells boost type‐1 cell proliferation and promote subsequent neuronal fate choice.
Dietary intake of isoflavones and coumestrol and the risk of prostate cancer in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial
Authors: Reger Michael K. , Zollinger Terrell W. , Liu Ziyue , Jones Josette F. , Zhang Jianjun
Published: November 2017

Experimental studies have revealed that phytoestrogens may modulate the risk of certain sites of cancer due to their structural similarity to 17β‐estradiol. The present study investigates whether intake of these compounds may influence prostate cancer risk in human populations. During a median follow up of 11.5 years, 2,598 cases of prostate cancer (including 287 advanced cases) have been identified among 27,004 men in the intervention arm of the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial. Dietary intake of phytoestrogens (excluding lignans) was assessed with a food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dietary isoflavones and coumestrol in relation to prostate cancer risk. After adjustment for confounders, an increased risk of advanced prostate cancer [HR (95% CI) for quintile (Q) 5 vs. Q1] was found for the dietary intake of total isoflavones [1.91 (1.25–2.92)], genistein [1.51 (1.02–2.22), daidzein [1.80 (1.18–2.75) and glycitein [1.67 (1.15–2.43)] (p‐trend for all associations ≤0.05). For example, HR (95% CI) for comparing the Q2, Q3, Q4 and Q5 with Q1 of daidzein intake was 1.45 (0.93–2.25), 1.65 (1.07–2.54), 1.73 (1.13–2.66) and 1.80 (1.18–2.75), respectively (p‐trend: 0.013). No statistically significant associations were observed between the intake of total isoflavones and individual phytoestrogens and non‐advanced and total prostate cancer after adjustment for confounders. This study revealed that dietary intake of isoflavones was associated with an elevated risk of advanced prostate cancer.
Midlife metabolic factors and prostate cancer risk in later life
Authors: Dickerman Barbra A. , Torfadottir Johanna E. , Valdimarsdottir Unnur A. , Wilson Kathryn M. , Steingrimsdottir Laufey , Aspelund Thor , Batista Julie L. , Fall Katja , Giovannucci Edward , Sigurdardottir Lara G. , Tryggvadottir Laufey , Gudnason Vilmundur , Markt Sarah C. , Mucci Lorelei A.
Published: November 2017

Metabolic syndrome is associated with several cancers, but evidence for aggressive prostate cancer is sparse. We prospectively investigated the influence of metabolic syndrome and its components on risk of total prostate cancer and measures of aggressive disease in a cohort of Icelandic men. Men in the Reykjavik Study (n = 9,097, enrolled 1967–1987) were followed for incident (n = 1,084 total; n = 378 advanced; n = 148 high‐grade) and fatal (n = 340) prostate cancer until 2014. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for (1) measured metabolic factors at cohort entry (body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, triglycerides, fasting blood glucose) and (2) a metabolic syndrome score (range 0–4) combining the risk factors: BMI ≥30 kg/m2; systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥130 or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥85 mm Hg or taking antihypertensives; triglycerides ≥150 mg/dl; fasting blood glucose ≥100 mg/dl or self‐reported type 2 diabetes. Hypertension and type 2 diabetes were associated with a higher risk of total, advanced, high‐grade, and fatal prostate cancer, independent of BMI. Neither BMI nor triglycerides were associated with prostate cancer risk. Higher metabolic syndrome score (3–4 vs 0) was associated with a higher risk of fatal prostate cancer (HR 1.55; 95% CI: 0.89, 2.69; p trend = 0.08), although this finding was not statistically significant. Our findings suggest a positive association between midlife hypertension and diabetes and risk of total and aggressive prostate cancer. Further, metabolic syndrome as a combination of factors was associated with an increased risk of fatal prostate cancer.