bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vascularization in Ornamented Osteoderms: Physiological Implications in Ectothermy and Amphibious Lifestyle in the Crocodylomorphs?
Authors: Clarac F. , De Buffrénil V. , Cubo J. , Quilhac A.
Published: October 2017

Vascularization in the core of crocodylian osteoderms, and in their superficial pits has been hypothesized to be a key feature involved in physiological thermoregulation and/or acidosis buffering during anoxia (apnea). However, up to now, there have been no quantitative data showing that the inner, or superficial, blood supply of the osteoderms is greater than that occurring in neighboring dermal tissues. We provide such data: our results clearly indicate that the vascular networks in both the osteoderms and the pits forming their superficial ornamentation are denser than in the overlying dermis. These results support previous physiological assumptions and indicate that vascularization in pseudosuchian (crocodylians and close relatives) ornamented osteoderms could be part of a broad eco‐physiological adaptation towards ectothermy and aquatic ambush predation acquired by the crocodylomorphs during their post‐Triassic evolution. Moreover, regressions demonstrate that the number of enclosed vessels is correlated with the sectional area of the cavities housing them (superficial pits and inner cavities). These regressions can be used to infer the degree of vascularization on dry and fossilized osteoderms and thus document the evolution of the putative function of the osteoderms in the Pseudosuchia. Anat Rec, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Anat Rec, 301:175–183, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Germ Cell Migration, Proliferation and Differentiation during Gonadal Morphogenesis in All‐Female Japanese Flounder (Paralichthys Olivaceus)
Authors: Yang Yang , Liu Qinghua , Xiao Yongshuang , Wang Xueying , An Hao , Song Zongcheng , You Feng , Wang Yanfeng , Ma Daoyuan , Li Jun
Published: October 2017

In this study, all genetic female (XX) broods of Japanese flounder were produced artificially by mating the females with sex‐reversed males. The proliferation and migration of primordial germ cells (PGCs), formation of ovary and oogenesis were described in detail. After hatching, around 20 individual PGCs migrated from the lateral to the dorsal of trunk region. At 15 days posthatching (dph), a part of PGCs were covered by a single layer somatic cells and formed the genital ridge. By 22 dph, the elongated gonadal primordia appeared under the ventral kidney, where the PGCs were totally enclosed by somatic cells. During the process of migration, PGCs were presumed to be mitotically inactive. From 63 to 73 dph, somatic cells rearrangement resulted in the formation of a narrow crevice, which became deeper and formed ovarian lumen. However, at 52 dph, dramatic mitotic proliferation of germ cell occurred and germline nest formed before the appearance of ovarian lumen. The onset of intensive germ cell proliferation and appearance of cell nests could be accepted as a criterion of initial ovarian differentiation. Then germ cells and somatic epithelial cells were gradually delimited by basement membrane and formed the germinal epithelium. In this period, results from in situ hybridization revealed that the early forkhead box L2 (pofoxl2) was expressed in somatic cells and oocytes in primary growth, which indicated the prefollicle cells formed. Then oogonia or oocytes, follicle cells, basement membrane, and theca cells composed a follicle complex. Finally, oocytes underwent meiosis and developed into to mature eggs. Anat Rec, 301:727–741, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Cytoarchitecture of the Telencephalon of Betta Splendens Regan 1910 (Perciformes: Anabantoidei) with a Stereological Approach to the Supracommissural and Postcommissural Nuclei
Authors: Magalhães Horn Ângelo Cássio , Rasia‐Filho Alberto A.
Published: October 2017

Teleostean fish brains are useful models to study cellular and functional specializations along the phylogenesis. The Betta splendens Regan 1910 (Siamese fighting fish; Perciformes:Anabantoidei) is known for its aggressive display, courtship behavior, nest building, and offspring care. Here, we present novel and detailed data about the cytoarchitecture of the olfactory bulb and the telencephalic hemispheres of this fish. The hematoxylin‐eosin and Nissl techniques served to identify brain nuclei (n = 19 males and n = 21 females) and for the stereological evaluation of the numerical density of cells and the proportion of neurons and glial cells in the ventral telencephalon supracommissural (Vs) and postcommissural (Vp) nuclei of adult males and females. These nuclei are putative homologs of the sexually dimorphic medial amygdala in mammals. The olfactory bulb of Betta splendens consists of 5 concentrically arranged layers plus ganglion cells of the terminal nerves. The dorsal telencephalon consists of 16 different cell groups. The ventral telencephalon has 8 nuclei, plus the lateral septal organ and the nuclei of the preoptic area forming an anatomical continuum. The rostrocaudal extent of the Vs and Vp is not different between sexes. In both nuclei, the proportion of neurons to glial cells is approximately 2:1 and the density of neurons and glial cells is not different between sexes. These morphological findings can subserve future research on the brain function of the Betta splendens and the search for neural sex differences in other central areas of this same species, in other teleost species, or yet in other related vertebrate group. Anat Rec, 00:000–000, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Anat Rec, 301:88–110, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identifying patterns of adaptation in breast cancer patients with cancer‐related fatigue using response shift analyses at subgroup level
Authors: Salmon Maxime , Blanchin Myriam , Rotonda Christine , Guillemin Francis , Sébille Véronique
Published: October 2017

Fatigue is the most prevalent symptom in breast cancer. It might be perceived differently among patients over time as a consequence of the differing patients’ adaptation and psychological adjustment to their cancer experience which can be related to response shift (RS). RS analyses can provide important insights on patients’ adaptation to cancer but it is usually assumed that RS occurs in the same way in all individuals which is unrealistic. This study aimed to identify patients’ subgroups in which different RS effects on self‐reported fatigue could occur over time using a combination of methods for manifest and latent variables. The FATSEIN study comprised 466 breast cancer patients followed over a 2‐year period. Fatigue was measured with the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory questionnaire (MFI‐20) during 10 visits. A novel combination of Mixed Models, Growth Mixture Modeling, and Structural Equation Modeling was used to assess the occurrence of RS in fatigue changes to identify subgroups displaying different RS patterns over time. An increase in fatigue was evidenced over the 8‐month follow‐up, followed by a decrease between the 8‐ and 24‐month. Four latent classes of patients were identified. Different RS patterns were detected in all latent classes between the inclusion and 8 months (last cycle of chemotherapy). No RS was evidenced between 8‐ and 24‐month. Several RS effects were evidenced in different groups of patients. Women seemed to adapt differently to their treatment and breast cancer experience possibly indicating differing needs for medical/psychological support.
High magnesium prevents matrix vesicle‐mediated mineralization in human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells via mitochondrial pathway and autophagy
Authors: Li Yaqiang , Wang Jing , Yue Jiaji , Wang Yu , Yang Chunxi , Cui Quanjun
Published: October 2017

Magnesium, as a physiological calcium antagonist, plays a vital role in the bone metabolism and the balance between magnesium and calcium is crucial in bone physiology. We recently demonstrated that matrix mineralization in human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) can be suppressed by high Mg2+. However, a complete understanding of the mechanisms involved still remains to be elucidated. As mitochondrial calcium phosphate granules depletion manifests concurrently with the appearance of matrix vesicles (MVs) and autophagy are associated with matrix mineralization, we studied the effect of high extracellular Mg2+ on these pathways. Our results first demonstrated that high Mg2+ has a significant inhibitory effect on the generalization of extracellular mineral aggregates and the expression of collagen 1 along which the mineral crystals grow. Transmission electron microscope results showed that less amount of MVs were observed inside hBMSCs treated with high Mg2+ and high Mg2+ inhibited the release of MVs. In addition, high Mg2+ significantly suppressed mitochondrial Ca2+ accumulation. Autophagy is promoted as a response to osteogenesis of hBMSCs. High Mg2+ inhibited the level of autophagy upon osteogenesis and autophagy inhibitor 3‐MA significantly suppressed mineralization. Exogenous ATP can reverse the inhibitory effect of high Mg2+ by increasing the level of autophagy. Taken together, our results indicate that high Mg2+ may modulate MVs‐mediated mineralization via suppressing mitochondrial Ca2+ intensity and regulates autophagy of hBMSCs upon osteogenesis, resulting in decreased extracellular mineralized matrix deposition. Our results contribute to the understanding of the role of magnesium homeostasis in osteoporosis and the design of magnesium alloys.
Efficacy of alprostadil in preventing contrast‐induced nephropathy in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: A multicenter prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liang Min , Yang Shicheng , Fu Naikuan , Lu Chengzhi , Tian Fengshi , Xing Xiaochun , Lin Wenhua , Liu Jingjing
Published: October 2017

Background

The role of alprostadil on the prevention of contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) still remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of short‐term alprostadil on the incidence of CIN in patients undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

A total of 480 patients with coronary heart disease undergoing PCI were enrolled in our study and randomly assigned to two groups. The control group (n = 240) was given only hydration therapy and the alprostadil group (n = 240) received intravenous administration of 20 ug/day (diluted with 100 ml normal saline) from 0.5∼1 hr before to 3 days after operation on the basis of hydration. The primary endpoint of the study was the incidence of CIN, which was defined as an increase in SCr concentration ≥ 44.2 umol/l or ≥25% above baseline within 48 hr∼72 hr after exposure of contrast media.

Results

The incidence of CIN was significantly lower in the alprostadil group than that in the control group (6.25% vs 11.67%,P = 0.038). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that alprostadil was the protective factor of CIN (OR = 0.699, 95% CI 0.542–0.902,P = 0.006). The benefits against CIN were consistent in prespecified high‐risk patients with diabetes mellitus (P = 0.003). In addition, we also found that hs‐CRP and blood homocysteine values after PCI were significantly lower in the alprostadil group than those in the control group.

Conclusion

Prophylactic administration of alprostadil may prevent against CIN in coronary heart disease patients undergoing elective PCI, particularly in high‐risk patients with diabetes mellitus.
Second‐generation drug‐eluting stents versus drug‐coated balloons for the treatment of coronary in‐stent restenosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kokkinidis Damianos G. , Prouse Andrew F. , Avner Seth J. , Lee Joo Myung , Waldo Stephen W. , Armstrong Ehrin J.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The benefit of drug‐eluting stents (DES) versus drug‐coated balloons (DCB) in coronary artery in‐stent restenosis (ISR) for the prevention of target lesion revascularization (TLR), stent thrombosis, and mortality remains uncertain. Our aim was to synthesize the available evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies that directly compare second‐generation drug‐eluting stents (SG‐DES) and DCB for the treatment of coronary ISR.

Methods

Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Central were searched for RCTs or observational studies, published up to March 15, 2017. A random effects model meta‐analysis investigating clinical and angiographic outcomes was conducted for RCTs and observational studies that compared SG‐DES versus DCB for the treatment of ISR.

Results

Ten studies and 2,173 patients were included in this meta‐analysis. The two treatment strategies were proven equal with regards to TLR, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, and cardiac mortality in both randomized and observational studies. No difference was found among RCTs for all‐cause mortality, while in observational studies, patients who were treated with SG‐DES had a lower mortality compared to DCB (OR: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.27–0.83). In the pooled analysis also (RCTs and observational studies), SG‐DES were associated with lower all‐cause mortality compared to DCB. Patients treated with SG‐DES were also superior in terms of minimal lumen diameter (standardized mean difference: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.12–0.66).

Conclusions

The two treatment strategies are equal for the treatment of ISR, while the difference in all‐cause mortality might be potentially explained by baseline differences in the two groups among real‐world studies.
Comparison of outcomes with surgical cut‐down versus percutaneous transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement: TAVR transfemoral access comparisons between surgical cut‐down and percutaneous approach
Authors: Drafts Brandon C. , Choi Charles H. , Sangal Kunal , Cammarata Michael W. , Applegate Robert J. , Gandhi Sanjay K. , Kincaid Edward H. , Kon Neal , Zhao David X.
Published: October 2017

Objectives

The objective is to compare the short‐term (30 days) and late (12 months) vascular adverse events in patients undergoing transfemoral (TF)‐transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) by surgical cut‐down (SC) vs. percutaneous (PC) approaches.

Background

Programs continue to utilize both approaches in TF‐TAVR. There are limited data comparing outcomes by SC vs. PC approaches and long‐term effects of endovascular intervention facilitated hemostasis on late vascular adverse events.

Methods

A total of 146 men and women aged 79.7 ± 10.0 years with severe aortic stenosis deemed extreme or high risk for surgery underwent TAVR via TF access. 61 had SC and 85 had PC approaches. Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC‐2) outcomes were assessed at an average of 12.1 months after TAVR.

Results

Hospital length of stay (LOS) post‐TAVR was shorter for the PC group compared to the SC group (5.1 ± 3.9 vs. 8.2 ± 6.6 days; P < 0.001). More patients were discharged directly to home in the PC than the SC group (85.9% vs. 68.9%, P < 0.05). At 30 days, there were 13/61 (21.3%) and 16/85 (18.8%; P < 0.05) of any vascular events, and 2/61 (3.3%) and 2/85 (2.4%; P = 0.73) major vascular events in the SC and PC groups, respectively. There was no difference in all‐cause mortality between the SC (14/61; 23%) and PC groups [17/85 (20%); P = 0.34]. There was no difference in any [4/33 (12%) vs. 3/43 (7%); P = 0.84] or major vascular adverse events [1/33 (3%) vs. 1/43 (2%); P = 0.79] in subjects that underwent adjunctive endovascular intervention compared to those who did not, respectively. There were no statistically significant univariate or multivariate predictors of any vascular event at 12 months when comparing SC to PC groups.

Conclusion

For TF TAVR, the PC approach, when compared to the SC approach, is associated with a shorter hospital LOS and higher rate of direct discharge to home with similar risk of vascular complications, late vascular adverse events, and all‐cause mortality at 12 months.
Gemcitabine and carfilzomib induced thrombotic microangiopathy: eculizumab as a life‐saving treatment
Authors: Gosain Rahul , Gill Amitoj , Fuqua Jacob , Volz Lesley H. , Kessans Knable Mika R. , Bycroft Ryan , Seger Sarah , Gosain Rohit , Rios Jorge A. , Chao Ju‐Hsien
Published: October 2017

Key Clinical Message

Drug‐induced aHUS is rare; however, early diagnosis is vital to reduce morbidity and mortality. With confirmation of the diagnosis, eculizumab appears to be a viable treatment option to suppress the pro‐inflammatory surge. Furthermore, adverse side effects of medications such as carfilzomib and gemcitabine should be considered in the appropriate settings.
Hydrogenation of Lactic Acid to 1,2‐Propanediol over Ru‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Liu Kaituo , Huang Xiaoming , Pidko Evgeny A. , Hensen Emiel J. M.
Published: October 2017

The catalytic hydrogenation of lactic acid to 1,2‐propanediol with supported Ru catalysts in water was investigated. The influence of catalyst support (activated carbon, γ‐Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, and CeO2) and promoters (Pd, Au, Mo, Re, Sn) on the catalytic performance was evaluated. Catalytic tests revealed that TiO2 yields the best Ru catalysts. With a monometallic Ru/TiO2 catalyst, a 1,2‐propanediol yield of 70 % at 79 % lactic acid conversion was achieved at 130 °C after 20 h reaction. Minor byproducts of the hydrogenation reaction were propionic acid, ethanol, 1‐propanol, and 2‐propanol. For the bimetallic catalysts, the addition of Pd and Au slightly enhanced the performance of Ru/TiO2, whereas the addition of common hydrogenation promoters such as Re, Mo, and Sn impaired the activity.
Versatile Heterogeneous Palladium Catalysts for Diverse Carbonylation Reactions under Atmospheric Carbon Monoxide Pressure
Authors: Vico Solano Marta , González Miera Greco , Pascanu Vlad , Inge A. Ken , Martín‐Matute Belén
Published: October 2017

Herein, we report a versatile carbonylation protocol using heterogeneous Pd0 nanoparticles supported on the metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) MIL‐88B‐NH2 (Fe/Cr). The synthesis of a vast array of carbonyls, which includes amides, esters, carboxylic acids, and α‐ketoamides, was achieved through mono‐ and dicarbonylation reactions. The selectivity could be controlled simply by tuning the reaction conditions. Superior activity and selectivity were recorded in some cases compared to that achieved with commercial Pd/C. However, the utility of an elaborate catalyst support is questionable and important reactivity and recyclability issues are discussed.
Streptavidin as a Scaffold for Light‐Induced Long‐Lived Charge Separation
Authors: Keller Sascha G. , Pannwitz Andrea , Mallin Hendrik , Wenger Oliver S. , Ward Thomas R.
Published: October 2017

Long‐lived photo‐driven charge separation is demonstrated by assembling a triad on a protein scaffold. For this purpose, a biotinylated triarylamine was added to a RuII–streptavidin conjugate bearing a methyl viologen electron acceptor covalently linked to the N‐terminus of streptavidin. To improve the rate and lifetime of the electron transfer, a negative patch consisting of up to three additional negatively charged amino acids was engineered through mutagenesis close to the biotin‐binding pocket of streptavidin. Time‐resolved laser spectroscopy revealed that the covalent attachment and the negative patch were beneficial for charge separation within the streptavidin hosted triad; the charge separated state was generated within the duration of the excitation laser pulse, and lifetimes up to 3120 ns could be achieved with the optimized supramolecular triad.
Improving Interoperability of Engineering Tools – Data Exchange in Plant Design
Authors: Fillinger Sandra , Bonart Henning , Welscher Wolfgang , Esche Erik , Repke Jens‐Uwe
Published: October 2017

Software interoperability plays a key role regarding digitalization in process industries. In this contribution, an overview of current developments in the field of data exchange and standardization is given. A prototypical framework for the heterogeneous data exchange between the piping and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) software X‐Visual PlantEngineer, the integrated engineering tool MOSAIC PlantDesign, and the 3D CAD software AVEVA® PDMS is presented for distillation columns. Data exchange between P&ID tools of different vendors, developed by the DEXPI initiative, is considered as an instance of homogeneous data transfer.
Cover Image, Volume 74, Issue 10
Authors: Piasecki Brian P. , Sasani Thomas A. , Lessenger Alexander T. , Huth Nicholas , Farrell Shane
Published: October 2017

The cover image, by Brian P. Piasecki et al., is based on the Research Article MAPK‐15 is a ciliary protein required for PKD‐2 localization and male mating behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans, DOI: 10.1002/cm.21387.

Photo Credit: Alexander T. Lessenger and Brian P. Piasecki.

image
Breast cancer risk associated with atypical hyperplasia and lobular carcinoma in situ initially diagnosed on core‐needle biopsy
Authors: Donaldson Alana R. , McCarthy Caitlin , Goraya Shazia , Pederson Holly J. , Sturgis Charles D. , Grobmyer Stephen R. , Calhoun Benjamin C.
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer risk estimates for atypical lesions are based primarily on case‐control studies of patients with open biopsies. The authors report the cumulative breast cancer incidence after a core biopsy diagnosis of atypical hyperplasia (ductal or lobular) or lobular carcinoma in situ.

METHODS

A cohort study with central pathology review was conducted on 393 patients who had core biopsy diagnoses of atypical hyperplasia and lobular carcinoma in situ from 1995 through 2010. Follow‐up was available for 255 of 264 patients (97%) at a median of 87 months (range, 3‐236 months).

RESULTS

There were 212 patients (54%) who were not upgraded on excision and had no personal history of breast cancer. Of these, 21 of 212 (9.9%) developed breast cancer, including 15 invasive carcinomas, 4 ductal carcinomas in situ, 1 pleomorphic lobular carcinoma in situ, and 1 unknown type. The prior core biopsy diagnoses were atypical ductal hyperplasia for 11 patients (52%) and atypical lobular hyperplasia/lobular carcinoma in situ in the remaining 10 patients (48%). The number of atypical foci in the core biopsy was not significantly associated with the subsequent development of breast cancer (P = .42). Of the 15 invasive carcinomas, 11 (73%) were ipsilateral, 11 (73%) were pathologic T1 tumors, 5 (33%) were pathologic N1 tumors, 13 (87%) were estrogen receptor‐positive, and 1 (7%) was amplified for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients who had an initial diagnosis of atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ on core biopsy, the 7‐year cumulative breast cancer incidence was 9.9%. Most tumors were ipsilateral, stage I, estrogen receptor‐positive, invasive carcinomas. The current data support close clinical and radiologic follow‐up for more than 5 years in this patient population. Cancer 2018;124:459‐65. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Ionic Self‐Assembled Derivative of Tetraphenylethylene: Synthesis, Enhanced Solid‐State Emission, Liquid‐Crystalline Structure, and Cu2+ Detection Ability
Authors: Lu Lin , Ren Xiang‐Kui , Liu Rui , Jiang Xu‐Qiang , Geng Lai‐Yao , Zheng Jun‐Feng , Feng Yakai , Chen Er‐Qiang
Published: October 2017

A novel tetraphenylethylene complex composed of 4′,4′′,4′′′,4′′′′‐(ethene‐1,1,2,2‐tetrayl)tetrabiphenyl‐4‐carboxylic acid (H4ETTC) and dimethyldioctadecylammonium bromide (DOAB) with enhanced solid‐state emission is designed and synthesized through an ionic self‐assembly (ISA) strategy. The aggregation‐induced emission property, phase behavior, and supramolecular structure of the complex are characterized by a combination of experimental measurements. The experimental results reveal that the ISA complex can self‐assemble into an ordered helical supramolecular structure with enhanced luminescent properties, although the ETTC cores possess extensive conjugation and high rigidity. Due to the prolonged conjugation length, the fluorescence quantum yield of ETTC–DOAB is boosted to 66 %. Moreover, it is demonstrated that assemblies of the ISA complex are an effective sensor for Cu2+. Owing to the disassembly modulation of ETTC–DOAB aggregations, the fluorescence emission of the assemblies can be selectively and sensitively quenched by Cu2+, with a detection limit as low as 12.6 nm. The enhanced emission efficiency, in combination with the liquid crystallinity and superior sensing performance to Cu2+, make the ETTC–DOAB complex a potential candidate for the fabrication of a luminescent device and chemosensor for Cu2+ detection.
Photocatalytic Synthesis of CdS(core)–CdSe(shell) Quantum Dots with a Heteroepitaxial Junction on TiO2: Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Generation from Water
Authors: Kitazono Kaoru , Akashi Ryo , Fujiwara Keigo , Akita Atsunobu , Naya Shin‐ichi , Fujishima Musashi , Tada Hiroaki
Published: October 2017

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Prof. Hiroaki Tada (Kindai University, Japan). The image shows solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion by a photoelectrochemical cell using a CdS(core)–CdSe(shell) hybrid quantum dot with epitaxial junction‐sensitized TiO2 photoanode. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cphc.201700708.
Amperometric Detection of dsDNA using an Acridine‐Orange‐Modified Glucose Oxidase
Authors: Jambrec Daliborka , Lammers Klaus , Bobrowski Tim , Pöller Sascha , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Ruff Adrian
Published: October 2017

Invited for this month's cover is the group of Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Schuhmann, Dr. Daliborka Jambrec and Dr. Adrian Ruff at Ruhr‐Universität in Bochum, Germany. The cover picture shows a novel procedure for the preferential post‐hybridization labeling of double‐stranded DNA based on the intercalating compound acridine orange, which was covalently bound to glucose oxidase. Labeling with a highly active biocatalyst allows for a simple and sequence‐independent amplification of the signal proportional to the amount of hybridized DNA that may be coupled with other amplification strategies. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cplu.201700279.
Mesoporous Copper Nanoparticle Networks Decorated by Graphite Layers for Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Detection of Trace Analytes
Authors: Velegraki Georgia , Xie Jian , Zhang Qichun , Armatas Gerasimos S.
Published: October 2017

The assembly of 3D nanoscale structures of plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) holds great promise for achieving enhanced optical and electronic properties. This type of materials exhibits a large number of surface hot spots, while offering the possibility for synergetic effects to be observed. Herein, a facile, yet powerful, strategy to fabricate 3D mesoporous networks of copper NPs decorated with graphite layers (denoted as Cu/G) is demonstrated by using a polymer‐assisted self‐assembly method. After thermal processing, the resulting Cu/G‐linked networks retain an open and interconnected porosity with a large surface area (up to 90 m2 g−1) and narrow pore size distribution (ca. 4.3 nm in size). Owing to these characteristics, Cu/G assemblies behave as high‐performance surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) probes for the detection of analytes in very low concentrations. The substrates comprise low‐cost, environmentally benign materials and show promise for chemical and biological sensing applications.
Ligand Substituents Govern the Efficiency and Mechanistic Path of Hydrogen Production with [Cp*Rh] Catalysts
Authors: Henke Wade C. , Lionetti Davide , Moore William N. G. , Hopkins Julie A. , Day Victor W. , Blakemore James D.
Published: October 2017

We demonstrate that [Cp*Rh] complexes bearing substituted 2,2'‐bipyridyl ligands are effective hydrogen evolution catalysts (Cp*=η5‐pentamethylcyclopentadienyl). Disubstitution (at the 4 and 4' positions) of the bipyridyl ligand (namely −tBu, −H, and −CF3) modulates the catalytic overpotential, in part due to involvement of the reduced ligand character in formally rhodium(I) intermediates. These reduced species are synthesized and isolated here; protonation results in formation of complexes bearing the unusual η4‐pentamethylcyclopentadiene ligand, and the properties of these protonated intermediates further govern the catalytic performance. Electrochemical studies suggest that multiple mechanistic pathways are accessible, and that the operative pathway depends on the applied potential and solution conditions. Taken together, these results suggest synergy in metal–ligand cooperation that modulates the mechanisms of fuel‐forming catalysis with organometallic compounds bearing multiple non‐innocent ligands.
Inflammatory cells in liquid‐based cytology smears classified as bacterial vaginosis
Authors: Eleutério José , Eleutério Renata Mírian Nunes , Martins Leonardo Arruda , Giraldo Paulo César , Gonçalves Ana Katherine Silveira
Published: October 2017

Background

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) remains an enigmatic question. The term “osis” instead of “itis” is used because commonly, there are no inflammatory process associated with BV. However, leukocytes are often observed in it.

Methods

In a transversal study, we evaluated 1178 cases with diagnosis of BV by liquid‐based cytology (more than 20% of clue cells), attended in general gynecologic private clinic. Depending of the presence of more than five leukocytes on average per field in immersion objective (1000×), the cases were divided in two groups: few or no leukocytes (< 5 leukocytes per field) (BV) and with leukocytes (≥ 5 leukocytes per field) (BV‐L). The Fisher exact and Student t tests was applied to a confidence interval of 95%. The project was approved by the Ethic Committee of Federal University of Ceará, Brazil.

Results

The age between the groups was the only different socio‐demographic variable. The assessment of vaginal discharge aspect had no characteristic aspect. Colposcopy findings suggesting colpitis and ectopy were more frequent in the group of BV‐L, 7.1% and 6.9%, respectively. The study of the microbiology demonstrated in the BV‐L group, more frequently co‐occurrence of Candida sp (15.1%) than in BV group (1.5%) (P < .0001). The cellular atypia was present more frequently in the BV‐L (9.6%) than in BV (5.7%) (P = .0116).

Conclusion

The presence of leukocytes in BV (or BV‐L) may suggest a mixed infection, ectopy influencing the vaginal milieu and even epithelial atypia.
Loss of BRCA1‐associated protein 1 (BAP1) expression is useful in diagnostic cytopathology of malignant mesothelioma in effusions
Authors: Cozzi Ilaria , Oprescu Florina Anca , Rullo Emma , Ascoli Valeria
Published: October 2017

Background

The important diagnostic challenge facing the cytopathologist is whether a mesothelial proliferation on effusions represents a malignant mesothelioma (MM) or a benign mesothelial hyperplasia (MH). Here, we evaluated the diagnostic utility of BAP1 immunohistochemistry (IHC) in distinguishing between reactive and neoplastic mesothelial cells.

Methods

In pleural and peritoneal effusions from 147 patients with diagnosed MM or with a differential diagnosis of MM and MH, the expression of BAP1 was examined by IHC on paraffin‐embedded cell blocks (n = 121) and biopsies (n = 44). Included were also synchronous and methacronous cytology/biopsy pair samples. BAP1 IHC was evaluated for nuclear staining as positive or negative on target mesothelial cells, with appropriate internal control.

Results

In MM cases, loss of BAP1 nuclear staining was observed in 76.5% of the cell blocks and 47.5% of the biopsies. All BAP1‐negative cases with a differential diagnosis of benign and malignant mesothelial proliferations were MM at follow‐up. All MH cases, the 29% of epithelial MM and the 90% of nonepithelial MM, retained BAP1 expression. Synchronous and methacronous biopsy/cytology pairs showed matching BAP1 results.

Conclusion

In effusions with mesotheliomatous cells or atypical mesothelial cells of uncertain significance, negative BAP1 IHC strongly supports a diagnosis of MM. With prudence in interpreting immunostaining, BAP1 may be included in IHC panels for MM cytodiagnosis, given its high specificity and sensitivity.
A novel and innovative hair test to determine glucocorticoid levels in racing camels for use in assessment of doping, health, and disease
Authors: Shah Iltaf , Haddow Jody D. , Ibrahim Hiba A. , Sheikh Maryam V. A. , Alhemeiri Fatima S.A.
Published: October 2017

The aim of this project was to develop and validate a new test for the analysis of glucocorticoids in camel hair and to use the new test to analyse hair samples from a variety of camel breeds in sports and racing applications. These findings could be of importance when evaluating racing camels for suspected doping offenses or for injury and disease control. Camel hair samples were collected from 30 non‐racing dromedary camels along with 3 racing camels in Al Ain, UAE and were decontaminated, pulverised, sonicated, and extracted prior to analysis. A liquid chromatographic–mass spectrometric method was employed to determine the levels of glucocorticoids in the hair samples. The 4 drugs of interest, namely hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, flumethasone and methylprednisolone, and an internal standard were quantified in camel hair samples. All 4 of the glucocorticoids were detected in camel hair samples with concentrations ranging between 31 and 935 pg/mg for hydrocortisone, 8–59 pg/mg for dexamethasone, 0.7–1034 pg/mg for flumethasone and 5–66 pg/mg for methylprednisolone in non‐racing camels. One of the racing camels displayed high concentrations of hydrocortisone (1130 pg/mg), flumethasone (2576 pg/mg), methylprednisone (1156 pg/mg) and dexamethasone (29 pg/mg). The authors believe this is the first report of a test for corticosteroids in camel hair. The new test has been validated according to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. This new hair test could be useful for further studies in doping control, toxicological studies, pharmacological studies and other clinical applications in camel health, injury, and disease.
Modeling plant composition as community continua in a forest landscape with LiDAR and hyperspectral remote sensing
Authors: Hakkenberg C. R. , Peet R. K. , Urban D. L. , Song C.
Published: October 2017

In light of the need to operationalize the mapping of forest composition at landscape scales, this study uses multi‐scale nested vegetation sampling in conjunction with LiDAR‐hyperspectral remotely sensed data from the G‐LiHT airborne sensor to map vascular plant compositional turnover in a compositionally and structurally complex North Carolina Piedmont forest. Reflecting a shift in emphasis from remotely sensing individual crowns to detecting aggregate optical‐structural properties of forest stands, predictive maps reflect the composition of entire vascular plant communities, inclusive of those species smaller than the resolution of the remotely sensed imagery, intertwined with proximate taxa, or otherwise obscured from optical sensors by dense upper canopies. Stand‐scale vascular plant composition is modeled as community continua: where discrete community‐unit classes at different compositional resolutions provide interpretable context for continuous gradient maps that depict n‐dimensional compositional complexity as a single, consistent RGB color combination. In total, derived remotely sensed predictors explain 71%, 54%, and 48% of the variation in the first three components of vascular plant composition, respectively. Among all remotely sensed environmental gradients, topography derived from LiDAR ground returns, forest structure estimated from LiDAR all returns, and morphological‐biochemical traits determined from hyperspectral imagery each significantly correspond to the three primary axes of floristic composition in the study site. Results confirm the complementarity of LiDAR and hyperspectral sensors for modeling the environmental gradients constraining landscape turnover in vascular plant composition and hold promise for predictive mapping applications spanning local land management to global ecosystem modeling.
Population genomics of the eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides)
Authors: Fahrenkrog Annette M. , Neves Leandro G. , Resende Márcio F. R. , Dervinis Christopher , Davenport Ruth , Barbazuk W. Brad , Kirst Matias
Published: October 2017

Despite its economic importance as a bioenergy crop and key role in riparian ecosystems, little is known about genetic diversity and adaptation of the eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides). Here, we report the first population genomics study for this species, conducted on a sample of 425 unrelated individuals collected in 13 states of the southeastern United States. The trees were genotyped by targeted resequencing of 18,153 genes and 23,835 intergenic regions, followed by the identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This natural P. deltoides population showed low levels of subpopulation differentiation (FST = 0.022–0.106), high genetic diversity (θW = 0.00100, π = 0.00170), a large effective population size (Ne ≈ 32,900), and low to moderate levels of linkage disequilibrium. Additionally, genomewide scans for selection (Tajima's D), subpopulation differentiation (XTX), and environmental association analyses with eleven climate variables carried out with two different methods (LFMM and BAYENV2) identified genes putatively involved in local adaptation. Interestingly, many of these genes were also identified as adaptation candidates in another poplar species, Populus trichocarpa, indicating possible convergent evolution. This study constitutes the first assessment of genetic diversity and local adaptation in P. deltoides throughout the southern part of its range, information we expect to be of use to guide management and breeding strategies for this species in future, especially in the face of climate change.
A Behavioral Paradigm to Study Rats Dual‐Task Performance under Head‐Direction and Body‐Location Tracking
Authors: MATSUO KOHEI , KAIJU TARO , NAKAZONO TOMOAKI , WATANABE KEI , SUZUKI TAKAFUMI
Published: October 2017

Dual‐task paradigm is a behavioral procedure in which subjects are required to perform two independent tasks in parallel, each of which involves a distinct stimulus–response association that leads to a unique goal. Although dual tasks are widely used in human studies, they are seldom used in animals. One such rare case was a rat simultaneous temporal processing (STP) task, in which rats were asked to time two different intervals simultaneously . However, there are a few limitations in this paradigm, such that, for example, each of two component tasks was not clearly associated with a unique stimulus–response association. In this report, in order to better characterize temporal dual‐task performance in rats, we developed a modified version of the STP task that comprised two clearly divided component tasks, and equipped our experimental system with a novel video‐based motion tracking system. We show that even under this more rigidly controlled dual‐task setting, rats are able to time two different intervals virtually without interference, and that our tracking system can simultaneously detect head‐direction and body‐location of a rat with high accuracy. These results suggest that the present experimental paradigm should be useful for investigating cognitive processes that underlie dual‐task performance at both the behavioral and neuronal levels.
Development of Automatic Parameter Tuning for Train Automatic Stop Control Device
Authors: ODA ATSUSHI , NIIMI IKUO , MAKI KENTARO
Published: October 2017

The adoption of train automatic stop control (TASC) device is expected to increase according to high demand of platform door system. The challenges of TASC are (1) reduction of adjustment man‐hour at TASC introduction and (2) maintenance of stopping position accuracy. These challenges are caused by the difficulty of obtaining vehicle characteristics accurately in real time. To solve the difficulty, a function for automatic parameter tuning for TASC devices has been developed. The function learns vehicle characteristics from real‐time driving data and controls vehicle deceleration based on the learned vehicle characteristics. The developed function was evaluated on a test vehicle, and the results show that it acquired vehicle characteristics accurately and stopped the test vehicle within a stopping accuracy of +/– 35 cm. In addition, it was confirmed that the calculation time was within 70 s. This was less than the target time of 80 s, which is comparable to the average driving time between two stations on a metro line.
The Novel Reconstruction Method for Laser Interferometer with Local Measurement
Authors: KADOWAKI KAZUTAKE , ISHIDA SHUNSUKE , ONO YASUSHI
Published: October 2017

We have developed a novel reconstruction method for a laser interferometer to determine the radial electron density profile in a cylindrical plasma vessel under an axial symmetrical assumption with spline interpolation. This method can extend the reconstructible area out of the line‐integrated density measurement area by using the additional local measurement data. Although both the ordinary Abel inversion and the basis function expansion method cannot reconstruct well out of the measurement area, the new method can reconstruct distributions even with nonzero electron density on the wall. In order to confirm the validity of the method, the error sensitivity is evaluated by Monte Carlo simulation.
A Survey and Technology Trends of 3D Features for Object Recognition
Authors: HASHIMOTO MANABU , AKIZUKI SHUICHI , TAKEI SHOICHI
Published: October 2017

Recently, various kinks of three‐dimensional (3D) imaging devices such as laser range finder or time‐of‐flight sensor become popular, so a lot of practical algorithms for recognizing 3D objects using “point cloud data” have been proposed. In this paper, we will introduce typical object recognition approaches and survey various kinds of 3D features proposed by many researchers. As for some important techniques, their principle and characteristics are explained in detail. Also we will mention about the local reference frame that is very important factor to realize stable feature description and accurate pose estimation in practical use.
A Proposal of 3D Feature Based on Occupancy of Point Cloud in Multiscale Shell Region
Authors: TAKEI SHOICHI , AKIZUKI SHUICHI , HASHIMOTO MANABU
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we propose a novel keypoint detection and feature description method called “SHORT” (Shell Histograms and Occupancy from Radial Transform) for fast 3D object recognition. Conventional keypoint detection and feature description methods such as the SHOT method have been necessary to calculate many normal vectors or other statistical values from the point cloud data in local regions, and therefore its computational costs are expensive. By contrast, the SHORT method consists of a fast keypoint detector that does not calculate statistics and a fast feature descriptor that uses a small number of points in the restricted local regions. The keypoint detector uses the occupancy measure which can be estimated by only counting the number of points in multiple spherical shell regions. Also, the feature descriptor uses a small number of points included in distinctive shell regions of multiple scales. Experimental results in 3D object recognition using real dataset show that the processing speed of the proposed method is approximately nine times faster than that of comparative methods.
Optimization of the synthesis process of zeolites with high cation exchange capacity using copper mine tailings as raw material
Authors: Espejel‐Ayala Fabricio , Ramírez‐Zamora Rosa María
Published: October 2017

This study presents the optimization of the synthesis process of zeolites with high cation exchange capacity using copper mine tailings as raw materials by means of a Central Composite Design. The method consists of two steps: a fusion process with NaOH and the hydrothermal treatment. The results show the formation of zeolite P and cancrinite. Optimal conditions to synthesize zeolite P (94%) are tailings/NaOH weight ratio 1:1.2 (g/g), at 900°C and 2 h (fusion process); 90°C, 102 h and solid/liquid ratio = 0.25 g/mL (hydrothermal treatment). The use of copper mine tailings in the synthesis of zeolites represents benefits to the environmental by the reduction of the amount of tailings to be disposed off. This mitigates the contamination caused by this residue. The product obtained can be used on‐site or off‐site in the remediation of water resources contaminated with metals. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 996–1002, 2018
Enhanced fermentative hydrogen production using gamma irradiated sludge immobilized in polyvinyl alcohol (pva) gels
Authors: Yin Yanan , Zhuang Shuting , Wang Jianlong
Published: October 2017

The anaerobic digested sludge was irradiated using gamma ray to enrich the hydrogen‐producing microorganisms, and the irradiated sludge was immobilize in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gels for enhanced fermentative hydrogen production. The experimental results showed that the cumulative hydrogen production of 144 mL H2/100 mL day−1 and hydrogen yield of 1.77 mol H2/mol glucose was obtained at 35°C and initial pH 9 by immobilized sludge. The immobilized sludge remained active after 10 repeated batch operations, which showed the advantage over the suspended sludge both in the cumulative hydrogen production and hydrogen yield during long‐term operation. Different microbial diversity presented in the suspended and immobilized system was observed: rod‐shape bacteria dominated on the surface of immobilized cell beads and suspended sludge; spherical and shuttle‐shape microbes were prevalent inside the immobilized cell beads. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1183–1190, 2018
A new natural layered clay mineral applicable to photocatalytic hydrogen production and/or degradation of dye pollutant
Authors: Liu Zhengjiang , Wang Junzhong , Ma Huiyan , Cheng Lin , Ar Shan , Yang Jucai , Zhang Qiancheng
Published: October 2017

In this work, preparation and characterization of Hangjin2# clay (HC) photocatalyst, a new type of low cost natural metal‐oxide based on clay mineral from Inner Mongolia of China, was presented. The photocatalytic activity of HC was evaluated through the photocatalytic water splitting and the photodegradation of wastewater pollutants in aqueous suspension. The effects of CH3OH, Na2S–Na2SO3, and triethanolamine (TEOA) on the effectiveness of photocatalytic water splitting were investigated, respectively, which indicated that HC in all sacrificial reagents system had better hydrogen production ability than P25‐TiO2. An enhanced photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) in the presence of HC was detected. Moreover, photocatalytic activity and catalyst stability were maintained after consecutive recycling cycles in water splitting and degradation of wastewater, respectively. The relationship between the photocatalytic properties, the structure, and the morphology of the HC was discussed. Results indicated that the light‐induced photocatalytic activity of HC was mainly attributed to the synergies between hierarchical structure and the distribution of foreign metal atoms in its crystal lattice. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1003–1010, 2018