bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of iDXA spine scans to evaluate total and visceral abdominal fat
Authors: Bea J. W. , Hsu C‐H , Blew R. M. , Irving A. P. , Caan B. J. , Kwan M. L. , Abraham I. , Going S. B.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Abdominal fat may be a better predictor than body mass index (BMI) for risk of metabolically‐related diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers. We sought to validate the percent fat reported on dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) regional spine scans (spine fat fraction, SFF) against abdominal fat obtained from total body scans using the iDXA machine (General Electric, Madison, WI), as previously done on the Prodigy model.

Methods

Total body scans and regional spine scans were completed on the same day (N = 50). In alignment with the Prodigy‐based study, the following regions of interest (ROI) were assessed from total body scans and compared to the SFF from regional spine scans: total abdominal fat at (1) lumbar vertebrae L2‐L4 and (2) L2‐Iliac Crest (L2‐IC); (3) total trunk fat; and (4) visceral fat in the android region. Separate linear regression models were used to predict each total body scan ROI from SFF; models were validated by bootstrapping.

Results

The sample was 84% female, a mean age of 38.5 ± 17.4 years, and mean BMI of 23.0 ± 3.8 kg/m2. The SFF, adjusted for BMI, predicted L2‐L4 and L2‐IC total abdominal fat (%; Adj.R2: 0.90) and total trunk fat (%; Adj.R2: 0.88) well; visceral fat (%) adjustedR2was 0.83. Linear regression models adjusted for additional participant characteristics resulted in similar adjustedR2values.

Conclusions

This replication of the strong correlation between SFF and abdominal fat measures on the iDXA in a new population confirms the previous Prodigy model findings and improves generalizability.
Pharmacological interventions to improve cognition and adaptive functioning in Down syndrome: Strides to date
Authors: Hart Sarah J. , Visootsak Jeannie , Tamburri Paul , Phuong Patrick , Baumer Nicole , Hernandez Maria‐Clemencia , Skotko Brian G. , Ochoa‐Lubinoff Cesar , Liogier D'Ardhuy Xavier , Kishnani Priya S. , Spiridigliozzi Gail A.
Published: September 2017

Although an increasing number of clinical trials have been developed for cognition in Down syndrome, there has been limited success to date in identifying effective interventions. This review describes the progression from pre‐clinical studies with mouse models to human clinical trials research using pharmacological interventions to improve cognition and adaptive functioning in Down syndrome. We also provide considerations for investigators when conducting human clinical trials and describe strategies for the pharmaceutical industry to advance the field in drug discovery for Down syndrome. Future research focusing on earlier pharmaceutical interventions, development of appropriate outcome measures, and greater collaboration between industry, academia, advocacy, and regulatory groups will be important for addressing limitations from prior studies and developing potential effective interventions for cognition in Down syndrome.
Testing the face shape hypothesis in twins discordant for nonsyndromic orofacial clefting
Authors: Roosenboom Jasmien , Indencleef Karlijne , Hens Greet , Peeters Hilde , Christensen Kaare , Marazita Mary L. , Claes Peter , Leslie Elizabeth J. , Weinberg Seth M.
Published: September 2017

Nonsyndromic orofacial clefts (OFCs) are complex traits characterized by multifactorial inheritance and wide phenotypic variability. Numerous studies have shown subtle differences in the faces of unaffected relatives from cleft families compared to controls, the implication being that such outward differences are an incomplete expression reflecting an underlying genetic predisposition. Twins discordant for OFCs provide a unique opportunity to further test this idea, as the unaffected co‐twin shares on average 50% (for dizygotic twins) and 100% (for monozygotic twins) of the genetic risk factors as the affected twin. We used 3D surface imaging and spatially‐dense morphometry to compare facial shape in a sample of 44 unaffected co‐twins and age‐ and sex‐matched unaffected controls (n = 241). Unaffected co‐twins showed statistically significant differences in the midface, lateral upper face, and forehead regions, compared to controls. Furthermore, co‐twins were characterized by a distinct pattern of midfacial retrusion, broader upper faces, and greater protrusion of the mandible and brow ridges. This same general facial pattern was shown in both unaffected monozygotic and dizygotic co‐twin subsets. These results provide additional support that altered facial shape is a phenotypic marker for OFC susceptibility.
Room‐temperature Synthesis of Amorphous Molybdenum Oxide Nanodots with Tunable Localized Surface Plasmon Resonances
Authors: Zhu Chuanhui , Xu Qun , Ji Liang , Ren Yumei , Fang Mingming
Published: September 2017

Two‐dimensional (2D) semiconductors have recently emerged as a remarkable class of plasmonic alternative to conventional noble metals. However, tuning of their plasmonic resonances towards different wavelengths in the visible‐light region with physical or chemical methods still remains challenging. In this work, we design a simple room‐temperature chemical reaction route to synthesize amorphous molybdenum oxide (MoO3−x) nanodots that exhibit strong localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR) in the visible and near‐infrared region. Moreover, tunable plasmon resonances can be achieved in a wide range with the changing surrounding solvent, and accordingly the photoelectrocatalytic activity can be optimized with the varying LSPR peaks. This work boosts the light–matter interaction at the nanoscale and could enable photodetectors, sensors, and photovoltaic devices in the future.
Exponential Consensus for Nonlinear Multi‐Agent Systems with Communication and Input Delays via Hybrid Control
Authors: Wang Yangling , Cao Jinde , Wang Haijun , Alsaedi Ahmed , Alsaadi Fuad E.
Published: September 2017

This paper aims to investigate the exponential leader‐following consensus for nonlinear multi‐agent systems with time‐varying communication and input delays by using hybrid control. Based on the Lyapunov functional method, impulsive differential equation theory and matrix analysis, we show that all the followers can achieve leader‐following consensus with the virtual leader exponentially even if only a fraction of followers can obtain the leader's information. Two classes of exponential consensus criteria as well as the convergence rates for the controlled multi‐agent systems are presented under very relaxed interaction topology conditions, i.e., the directed interaction topology among the followers is only required to have p(p>1) disjoint strong components. Finally, two numerical examples are given to validate the proposed theoretical results.
Prenylation of viral proteins by enzymes of the host: Virus‐driven rationale for therapy with statins and FT/GGT1 inhibitors
Authors: Marakasova Ekaterina S. , Eisenhaber Birgit , Maurer‐Stroh Sebastian , Eisenhaber Frank , Baranova Ancha
Published: September 2017

Intracellular bacteria were recently shown to employ eukaryotic prenylation system for modifying activity and ensuring proper intracellular localization of their own proteins. Following the same logic, the proteins of viruses may also serve as prenylation substrates. Using extensively validated high‐confidence prenylation predictions by PrePS with a cut‐off for experimentally confirmed farnesylation of hepatitis delta virus antigen, we compiled in silico evidence for several new prenylation candidates, including IRL9 (CMV) and few other proteins encoded by Herpesviridae, Nef (HIV‐1), E1A (human adenovirus 1), NS5A (HCV), PB2 (influenza), HN (human parainfluenza virus 3), L83L (African swine fever), MC155R (molluscum contagiosum virus), other Poxviridae proteins, and some bacteriophages of human associated bacteria. If confirmed experimentally, these findings may aid in dissection of molecular functions of uncharacterized viral proteins and provide a novel rationale for statin and FT/GGT1‐based inhibition of viral infections. Prenylation of bacteriophage proteins may aid in moderation of microbial infections.
Cryoconcentration of flavonoid extract for enhanced biophotovoltaics and pH sensitive thin films
Authors: Demirbas A. , Groszman K. , Pazmiño‐Hernandez M. , Vanegas D. C. , Welt B. , Hondred J. A. , Garland N. T. , Claussen J. C. , McLamore E. S.
Published: September 2017

Flavonoids are important value added products for dye sensitized solar cells biosensors, functional foods, medicinal supplements, nanomaterial synthesis, and other applications. Brassica oleracea contains high levels of anthocyanins in leaf sap vacuoles, and there are many viable extraction techniques that vary in terms of simplicity, environmental impact, cost, and extract photochemical/electrochemical properties. The efficiency of value added biotechnologies from flavonoid is a function of anthocyanin activity/concentration and molecule stability (i.e., ability to retain molecular resonance under a wide range of conditions). In this paper, we show that block cryoconcentration and partial thawing of anthocyanin from B. oleracea is a green, facile, and highly efficient technique that does not require any special equipment or protocols for producing enhanced value added products. Cryoconcentration increased anthocyanin activity and total phenol content approximately 10 times compared with common extraction techniques. Cryoconcentrated extract had enhanced electrochemical properties (higher oxidation potential), improved chroma, and higher UV absorbance than extract produced with other methods for a pH range of 2–12, with minimal effect on the diffusion coefficient of the extract. As a proof of concept for energy harvesting and sensor applications, dye sensitized solar cells and pH‐sensitive thin films were prepared and tested. These devices were comparable with other recently published biotechnologies in terms of efficacy, but did not require expensive/environmentally detrimental extraction or concentration methods. This low cost, biorenewable, and simple method can be used for development of a variety of value added products. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:206–217, 2018
Mentha suaveolensEhrh. Chemotypes in Eastern Iberian Peninsula: Essential Oil Variation and Relation with Ecological Factors
Authors: Llorens‐Molina Juan Antonio , Rivera Seclén Cynthia Fiorella , Vacas Gonzalez Sandra , Boira Tortajada Herminio
Published: September 2017

Essential oil (EO) extracts coming from two representative populations ofMentha suaveolensEhrh. subesp.suaveolensin Eastern Iberian Peninsula were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and flame ion detector. Plant sampling was carried out in the morning and evening in order to study diurnal variation inEOprofiles. Likewise, leaves and inflorescences were analyzed separately. Two chemotypes corresponding to each one of the populations were identified, with piperitenone oxide (35.2 – 74.3%) and piperitone oxide (83.9 – 91.3%), respectively, as major compounds. Once different chemotypes were identified, canonical correspondence analysis was employed to evaluate the effect of the bioclimatic and edaphic factors recorded in each location on the observed differences. Statistical analysis suggested that these chemotypes were closely related to specific environmental factors, mainly the bioclimatic ones. Concretely, piperitenone oxide chemotype can be associated to supramediterranean bioclimatic conditions and soils with major salinity and water field capacity. On the other hand, the most volatile fraction (hydrocarbon monoterpenes) reached its higher level in the morning; specifically, a noticeable amount of limonene was found in morning samples of flowers (4.8 – 10.6%). This fact can be related to ecological role of volatile compounds in order to attract pollinator insects.
Career Adaptability and Social Support Among Graduating College Seniors
Authors: Ghosh Arpita , Fouad Nadya A.
Published: September 2017

Previous research has highlighted the employment needs of recent college graduates, focusing on the specific challenges members of this group encounter as they transition into the workforce. This study examined graduating seniors (N = 164) during their senior year of college as they transitioned to the workforce, investigating career adaptability and social support. Results from multiple regression analyses found that the concern resource of career adaptability was significantly predicted by social support. Implications and future directions are highlighted.
Use of Bayesian Inference for Parameter Recovery in DC and AC Voltammetry
Authors: Gavaghan David J. , Cooper Jonathan , Daly Aidan C. , Gill Christopher , Gillow Kathryn , Robinson Martin , Simonov Alexandr N. , Zhang Jie , Bond Alan M.
Published: September 2017

We describe the use of Bayesian inference for quantitative comparison of voltammetric methods for investigating electrode kinetics. We illustrate the utility of the approach by comparing the information content in both DC and AC voltammetry at a planar electrode for the case of a quasi‐reversible one electron reaction mechanism. Using synthetic data (i. e. simulated data based on Butler‐Volmer electrode kinetics for which the true parameter values are known and to which realistic levels of simulated experimental noise have been added), we are able to show that AC voltammetry is less affected by experimental noise (so that in effect it has a greater information content then the corresponding DC measurement) and hence yields more accurate estimates of the experimental parameters for a given level of noise. Significantly, the AC approach is shown to be able to distinguish higher values of the rate constant. The results of using synthetic data are then confirmed for an illustrative case of experimental data for the [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− process.
A Dithiol Compound Binds to the Zinc Finger Protein TRAF6 and Suppresses Its Ubiquitination
Authors: Koga Ryoko , Radwan Mohamed O. , Ejima Tomohiko , Kanemaru Yosuke , Tateishi Hiroshi , Ali Taha F. S. , Ciftci Halil Ibrahim , Shibata Yuri , Taguchi Yuu , Inoue Jun‐ichiro , Otsuka Masami , Fujita Mikako
Published: September 2017

Despite various inhibitors targeting the zinc center(s) of enzymes, drugs that target zinc fingers have not been examined in detail. We previously developed a dithiol compound named SN‐1 that has an inhibitory effect on the function of zinc finger transcription factors, but its mechanism of action has not yet been elucidated. To establish a general principle for new drugs, the details of the action of SN‐1 against a zinc finger protein were examined. As a zinc‐finger‐containing protein, we focused on TRAF6, which is related to cancer and inflammation. Binding of SN‐1 to TRAF6 and its effect on TRAF6 ubiquitination were examined in vitro, and the binding mode was calculated by computational methodology. Furthermore, ubiquitination of TRAF6 and downstream signaling was examined by cell‐based experiments. The results show that SN‐1 binds to TRAF6, inhibiting its auto‐ubiquitination and downstream NF‐κB signaling. Docking studies indicate that SN‐1 binds directly to the first zinc finger of TRAF6. This binding disrupts the neighboring structure, that is, the RING finger domain, to suppress the ubiquitin ligase activity of TRAF6. Taken together, this study provides a platform for developing new small molecules that target zinc finger proteins.
Porphyrin Derivatives Inhibit the Interaction between Receptor Activator of NF‐κB and Its Ligand
Authors: Chypre Mélanie , Madel Maria‐Bernadette , Chaloin Olivier , Blin‐Wakkach Claudine , Morice Christophe , Mueller Christopher G.
Published: September 2017

Receptor activator of NF‐κB (RANK), a member of the TNF‐receptor superfamily, plays an important role in bone resorption and stimulates immune and epithelial cell activation. Denosumab, a human monoclonal antibody that blocks the RANK ligand (RANKL), is approved for the treatment of osteoporosis and bone metastasis. However, a small molecule that inhibits the RANK–RANKL interaction would be beneficial to decrease cost and to facilitate treatments with orally available therapeutic agents. Herein we report the discovery of the first nonpeptidic inhibitors of RANK–RANKL interactions. In screening a chemical library by competitive ELISA, the porphyrin verteporfin was identified as a hit. Derivatives were screened, and the chlorin‐macrocycle‐containing pheophorbide A and purpurin 18 were found to bind recombinant RANKL, to inhibit RANK–RANKL interactions in the ELISA, and to suppress the RANKL‐dependent activation of model cells and the differentiation of RANK‐expressing precursors into osteoclasts. This discovery of a family of small molecules that inhibit RANK activation presents an initial basis for further development of nonpeptidic therapeutic agents targeting the interaction between RANK and RANKL.
Rapid, Complete Removal of Organic Pollutants from Water by a SnS2‐Modified Porous β‐Cyclodextrin‐Containing Polymer
Authors: Yang Shun , Lin Shiting , Fan Jie , Wang Yaru , Liu Chang , Yan Xiao
Published: September 2017

The discharge of organic pollutants poses a serious threat to public health and the environment. Developing new strategies and materials to remove organic pollutants from water efficiently and completely is of great importance. Herein, a SnS2‐modified porous β‐cyclodextrin‐containing polymer (SnS2@PCDP), which was derived by nucleophilic aromatic substitution of the hydroxyl groups of both β‐CD and SnS2−OH by tetrafluoroterephthalonitrile, was prepared for the rapid, complete removal of organic pollutants from water . The porous structure and well‐defined cavities of β‐CD endow SnS2@PCDP with a facile and high adsorption capacity, and the modification with SnS2 leads to simultaneous adsorption and photodegradation processes for the rapid and complete removal of organic pollutants. In addition, SnS2@PCDP can be regenerated several times using light irradiation with no loss in performance. Overall, the efficient removal performance and excellent reusability indicate that SnS2@PCDP has potential for practical applications in the efficient treatment of organic pollutants.
Pathology Evaluation of Developmental Phenotypes in Neonatal and Juvenile Mice
Authors: Bolon Brad , Newbigging Susan , Boyd Kelli L.
Published: September 2017

Necropsy (or autopsy) is the post mortem dissection of an animal to examine and collect organs and tissues in order to understand the effects and causes of disease. The systematic harvesting of samples at necropsy is an essential step in defining the reason for an unexpected death and in characterizing the features (i.e., phenotype) of a newly discovered condition. Phenotypic evaluation of young (neonatal and juvenile) mice emphasizes morphologic (macroscopic and microscopic) techniques and biochemical (clinical chemistry, hematologic, and molecular) analyses. This paper describes the most common procedures utilized to gather phenotypic data from neonatal and juvenile mice, with advanced alternatives for preparing special specimens (e.g., blood smears, electron microscopic samples). These techniques are applicable to young mice of all strains and are effective regardless of the fundamental cause, including genetically engineered or spontaneous mutations and exposure to pathogens or xenobiotic agents (i.e., foreign chemicals). © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Asymmetrical Photodetection Response of Methylammonium Lead Bromide Perovskite Single Crystal
Authors: Wang Xin , Huang Yin , Lei Wei , Li Qing , Zhang Xiaobing , Khan Qasim , Wang Baoping
Published: September 2017

Because of their low trap densities and remarkable carrier transport properties, organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskite single crystals have been used as active materials in photodetectors to provide high photodetection responses. While the ideal methylammonium lead bromide (MAPbBr3) perovskite has a cubic crystal structure, the structures and carrier transport properties of the actual crystals may have low symmetry as a result of low‐temperature fabrication processes used. In this work, the variable temperature crystallization method was proposed to fabricate large MAPbBr3 single crystals. The unsymmetrical structures of the MAPbBr3 single crystals were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The electrical properties and photodetection responses of these MAPbBr3 single crystals along the different axial directions were then investigated. The asymmetrical trap density, the carrier mobility, and the photocurrent gain were all estimated from the measurement results. The best photodetection response was obtained along the vertical channel located between the top and bottom faces of the MAPbBr3 single crystal. The photocurrent gain was 900, and the fall time for transient photodetection was 30 μs. The work presented here is expected to provide useful design information for photodetectors based on perovskite single crystals.
Examination of the link between life stages uncovered the mechanisms by which habitat characteristics affect odonates
Authors: Iwai Noriko , Akasaka Munemitsu , Kadoya Taku , Ishida Shinya , Aoki Takashi , Higuchi Shinsuke , Takamura Noriko
Published: September 2017

The larval and adult stages of amphibious animals are affected by both aquatic and terrestrial habitat characteristics, and each stage also affects the other. However, this link between life stages has been largely overlooked in previous studies. We examined the effect of aquatic and terrestrial habitat characteristics on the diversity of larval and adult odonates, taking into account the link between the two life stages. Species diversity of adult and larval odonates and aquatic plants, as well as patterns of land use, was investigated in 63 irrigation ponds. We created structural equation models, with paths from land use and aquatic plants characteristics to larval and adult stages of odonates, as well as between the two stages, and chose the best model based on the lowest Akaike information criterion. Adult odonates, but not larvae, were affected by aquatic and terrestrial habitat characteristics, suggesting that the former is the key stage for odonate communities. We observed a positive relationship between the diversity of aquatic plants and larval odonates, but this was in fact due to the effects of aquatic plants on adults, which carried over to the larval stage. Our study showed that a consideration of the link between life stages is crucial for a complete understanding of the relationship between habitat characteristics and amphibious animal populations.
Fire history in southern Patagonia: human and climate influences on fire activity in Nothofagus pumilio forests
Authors: Mundo Ignacio A. , Villalba Ricardo , Veblen Thomas T. , Kitzberger Thomas , Holz Andrés , Paritsis Juan , Ripalta Alberto
Published: September 2017

Fire is a major disturbance affecting forests worldwide with significant economic, social, and ecological impacts. The southernmost forests on Earth extend continuously along the Andes from mid‐ to subantarctic latitudes in South America. In this region, warming and drying trends since the mid‐20th century have been linked to a positive trend in the Southern Annual Mode (SAM), the leading mode of extratropical climate variability in the Southern Hemisphere. Due to the scarcity of documentary fire records and the lack of tree‐ring fire histories, little is known about how wildfire activity responds to shifts in the westerly circulation pattern and associated climatic variability in the Andean region south of ~44° S. For the first time, we applied dendrochronological techniques to reconstruct fire history from the angiosperm Nothofagus pumilio at 16 sites distributed from ~44° to 50° S to determine relationships between fire occurrence and the two primary drivers of wildfire activity: climate variability and human activities. Partial cross‐sections with fire scars were collected from 363 trees in Argentina and Chile. Chronologies of annually resolved fire‐scar dates start in 1791 and show a pattern of higher fire frequency during the 20th century, concurrent with the human occupation and colonization processes in southern Patagonia. Years of widespread fire occurring synchronously in two or more disjunct sites are associated with broad‐scale climatic anomalies. Intense droughts inferred from extreme departures in temperature, precipitation, and the Standardized Precipitation‐Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) during the growing seasons of 1944 and 1962 are consistent with the two most severe fires at northern sites. Extended droughts, reflected by the association of fire occurrence with six‐month cumulative precipitation and SPEI, create conditions for widespread fires at the southern sites (south of ~46° S). Regional fires were concurrent with significant positive departures of SAM during the austral spring–summer. This tree‐ring fire record reveals the influences of both climate variability and human activities on fire in the N. pumilio forests across the Andes, and also establishes the feasibility of using this tree species as a natural archive of fire history.
Long‐Term Research in Ecology and Evolution (LTREE): 2015 survey data
Authors: Bradford Mark A. , Leiserowitz Anthony , Feinberg Geoffrey , Rosenthal Seth A. , Lau Jennifer A.
Published: September 2017

To systematically assess views on contributions and future activities for long‐term research in ecology and evolution (LTREE), we conducted and here provide data responses and associated metadata for a survey of ecological and evolutionary scientists. The survey objectives were to: (1) Identify and prioritize research questions that are important to address through long‐term, ecological field experiments; and (2) understand the role that these experiments might play in generating and applying ecological and evolutionary knowledge. The survey was developed adhering to the standards of the American Association for Public Opinion Research. It was administered online using Qualtrics Survey Software. Survey creation was a multi‐step process, with questions and format developed and then revised with, for example, input from an external advisory committee comprising senior and junior ecological and evolutionary researchers. The final questionnaire was released to ~100 colleagues to ensure functionality and then fielded 2 d later (January 7th, 2015). Two professional societies distributed it to their membership, including the Ecological Society of America, and it was posted to three list serves. The questionnaire was available through February 8th 2015 and completed by 1,179 respondents. The distribution approach targeted practicing ecologists and evolutionary biologists in the U.S. Quantitative (both ordinal and categorical) closed‐ended questions used a predefined set of response categories, facilitating direct comparison across all respondents. Qualitative, open‐ended questions, provided respondents the opportunity to develop their own answers. We employed quantitative questions to score views on the extent to which long‐term experimental research has contributed to understanding in ecology and evolutionary biology; its role compared to other approaches (e.g., short‐term experiments); justifications for and caveats to long‐term experiments; and the relative importance of incentives for conducting long‐term research. Qualitative questions were used to assess community views on the most important topics and questions for long‐term research to address, and primary incentives and challenges to realizing this work. Finally, demographic data were collected to determine if views were conditional on such things as years of experience and field of expertise. The final questionnaire and all responses are provided for unrestricted use.
Polyquercetin/MWNT‐modified Electrode for the Determination of Natural Phenolic Antioxidants
Authors: Ziyatdinova Guzel , Kozlova Ekaterina , Budnikov Herman
Published: September 2017

Novel highly sensitive voltammetric method for the gallic acid, catechin and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) quantification has been developed using glassy carbon electrode modified with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes and polyquercetin (polyquercetin/MWNT/GCE). The effect of electropolymerization parameters (number of cycles, monomer concentration and polarization window) on the electrode characteristics has been evaluated. The electrode surface has been characterized with SEM, CV and EIS. The linear dynamic ranges of 0.50–10 and 10–750 μM for gallic acid, 0.10–10 and 10.0–250 μM for catechin and 0.050–10 and 10–100 μM for EGCG have been obtained in differential pulse mode with the detection limits of 0.10, 0.024 and 0.014 μM, respectively. The approach has been successfully applied for the tea antioxidant capacity evaluation (AOC). The positive correlations with antioxidant activity towards DPPH• and total phenolics (r=0.7845 and 0.7658 at rcrit=0.4227, n=22) have been obtained.
Effect of Excess PbI2 in Fully Printable Carbon‐based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kapoor Vishakha , Bashir Amna , Haur Lew J. , Bruno Annalisa , Shukla Sudhanshu , Priyadarshi Anish , Mathews Nripan , Mhaisalkar Subodh
Published: September 2017

Excess lead iodide (PbI2) has been reported to improve the power conversion efficiency (PCE) in the standard perovskite solar cell (PSC) with 2,2,7,7‐Tetrakis(N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenyl‐amine)‐9,9‐ spirobifluorene (spiro‐OMeTAD) as a hole‐transporting material. In this study, we studied the effect of having excess PbI2 in fully printable carbon‐based perovskite solar cells (PSC). Excess amounts of PbI2, ranging from 0 % to 15 %, were added to the equimolar perovskite solution for infiltration in the carbon‐based PSC architecture. There was an improvement in the average value of open‐circuit voltage (0.87 to 0.91 V) with increased PbI2, but there was no clear trend in fill factor and current density. All devices showed good stability under ambient conditions without encapsulation. The device containing 15 % excess PbI2 showed degradation under continuous illumination, whereas there was no degradation with an equimolar ratio of perovskite precursors.
Use of Automated Scoring in Spoken Language Assessments for Test Takers With Speech Impairments
Authors: Loukina Anastassia , Buzick Heather
Published: September 2017

This study is an evaluation of the performance of automated speech scoring for speakers with documented or suspected speech impairments. Given that the use of automated scoring of open‐ended spoken responses is relatively nascent and there is little research to date that includes test takers with disabilities, this small exploratory study focuses on one type of scoring technology, automatic speech scoring (the SpeechRaterSM automated scoring engine); one type of assessment, spontaneous spoken English by nonnative adults (six TOEFL iBT® test speaking items per test taker); and one category of disability, speech impairments. The results show discrepancies between human and SpeechRater scores for speakers with documented speech or hearing impairments who receive accommodations and for speakers whose responses were deferred to the scoring leader by human raters because the responses exhibited signs of a speech impairment. SpeechRater scores for these studied groups tended to be higher than the human scores. Based on a smaller subsample, the word error rate was higher for these groups relative to the control group, suggesting that the automatic speech recognition system contributed to the discrepancies between SpeechRater and human scores.
The responsibility of gynecologists and obstetricians in providing safe abortion services within the limits of the law
Authors: Faúndes Anibal
Published: September 2017

Approximately 47 000 women die each year worldwide as a result of the complications of unsafe abortion, almost exclusively in low‐ and middle‐income countries with restrictive abortion laws. In these countries, very few women who comply with the conditions imposed by the law can access safe abortion services in the public health system. The main obstacle is the unwillingness of gynecologists and obstetricians to provide abortion services by claiming conscientious objection, which is often used to hide their fear of the stigma associated with abortion. This happens because many colleagues are unaware that without access to legal services these women will resort to an unsafe abortion and its consequences. This violates the statement from FIGO's Committee for the Ethical Aspects of Human Reproduction and Women's Health, which asserts that: “The primary conscientious duty of obstetrician–gynecologists is at all times to treat, or provide benefit and prevent harm, to the patients for whose care they are responsible. Any conscientious objection to treating a patient is secondary to this primary duty.”
Cross‐cultural similarities and differences in motives to forgive: A comparison between and within cultures
Authors: Huwaë Sylvia , Schaafsma Juliette
Published: September 2017

Recently, researchers have begun to explore people's motives to forgive those who have offended them. Using a recall method, we examined whether such motives (relationship‐, offender‐ or self‐focused) differ between and within cultures that are more collectivistic (Moluccan Islands in Indonesia) or more individualistic (the Netherlands) and whether this depends on people's relationship with the offender. More specifically, we examined the idea that other‐focused motives should be more important in cultures that are more collectivistic and that self‐focused motives should prevail in more individualistic cultures. We found that Moluccan participants indeed endorsed relationship‐ and offender‐focused motives more than Dutch participants. Moluccan and Dutch participants did not, however, differ in the extent to which they endorsed self‐focused motives. Furthermore, Dutch participants were more likely to endorse relationship motives (especially in close relations) than self‐focused motives. For Moluccan participants, relationship‐, offender‐ and self‐focused motives were equally important and also did not depend on how close they were with the offender. Differences between the samples could not be explained by the extent to which people defined themselves as more independent or interdependent. The implications of these findings for future research on forgiveness motives are discussed.
Multilayered pore‐closedPLGAmicrosphere deliveringOGPandBMP‐2 in sequential release patterns for the facilitation ofBMSCs osteogenic differentiation
Authors: Zhang Bing‐Jun , Han Zhi‐Wei , Duan Ke , Mu Yan‐Dong , Weng Jie
Published: September 2017

Bone tissue regeneration may be more effectively administrated by controlled release of multiple biofactors, given that bone healing comprises a cascade of biological events controlled by numerous cytokines and growth factors (GFs). Here, we propose a novel microcarrier with the capability to sequentially deliver dual biofactors for better controlling the bone regeneration process. First, osteogenic growth peptide (OGP) was incorporated in porous poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic) acid (PLGA) microspheres by a simple solution dipping method and subsequent pore‐closing treatment. Then, a multilayered polyelectrolyte coating ((HA‐CS)2‐Hep‐BMP‐2‐Hep‐(CS‐HA)2) was prepared on the surface of such OGP‐loaded pore‐closed PLGA microspheres by layer‐by‐layer assembly. Results showed that the OGP release was minimal (<17.1%) in the first 15 days but accelerated remarkably thereafter, while at least 60.3% of the bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) load was released in the first 15 days and only very slow release was observed subsequently. Furtherin vitrocell experiments showed that the dual‐biomolecule‐loaded microspheres elicited more cells with extremely elongated cellular morphology, much higher alkaline phosphatase level and upregulated expression of osteocalcin. Such a dual loading of OGP and BMP‐2 had a more positive impact on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells proliferation and osteogenic differentiation compared with either OGP or BMP‐2 alone, suggesting potential synergistic benefit of the sequential release of multiple peptide‐based biofactors in a coordinated manner. Overall, this dual delivery system may provide a therapeutic strategy sequentially targeting multiple events (or mechanisms) during bone healing, which is believed to benefit the regenerative repair of bone defects. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 95–105, 2018.
Effects of a Randomized Weight Loss Intervention Trial in Obese Adolescents on Tibia and Radius Bone Geometry and Volumetric Density
Authors: Kelley Jennifer C , Stettler-Davis Nicolas , Leonard Mary B , Hill Douglas , Wrotniak Brian H , Shults Justine , Stallings Virginia A , Berkowitz Robert , Xanthopoulos Melissa S , Prout-Parks Elizabeth , Klieger Sarah B , Zemel Babette S
Published: September 2017

Obese adolescents have increased fracture risk, but effects of alterations in adiposity on bone accrual and strength in obese adolescents are not understood. We evaluated 12-month changes in trabecular and cortical volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and cortical geometry in obese adolescents undergoing a randomized weight management program, and investigated the effect of body composition changes on bone outcomes. Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) of the radius and tibia, and whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans were obtained at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months in 91 obese adolescents randomized to standard care versus behavioral intervention for weight loss. Longitudinal models assessed effects of body composition changes on bone outcomes, adjusted for age, bone length, and African-American ancestry, and stratified by sex. Secondary analyses included adjustment for physical activity, maturation, vitamin D, and inflammatory biomarkers. Baseline body mass index (BMI) was similar between intervention groups. Twelve-month change in BMI in the standard care group was 1.0 kg/m2 versus –0.4 kg/m2 in the behavioral intervention group (p < 0.01). Intervention groups were similar in bone outcomes, so they were combined for subsequent analyses. For the tibia, BMI change was not associated with change in vBMD or structure. Greater baseline lean body mass index (LBMI) associated with higher cortical vBMD in males, trabecular vBMD in females, and polar section modulus (pZ) and periosteal circumference (Peri-C) in both sexes. In females, change in LBMI positively associated with gains in pZ and Peri-C. Baseline visceral adipose tissue (VFAT) was inversely associated with pZ in males and cortical vBMD in females. Change in VFAT did not affect bone outcomes. For the radius, BMI and LBMI changes positively associated with pZ in males. Thus, in obese adolescents, weight loss intervention with modest changes in BMI was not detrimental to radius or tibia bone strength, and changes in lean, but not adiposity, measures were beneficial to bone development. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Design, Synthesis, and Anticancer Activity of Novel Fused Purine Analogues
Authors: Hassan A. Y. , Sarg M. T. , Bayoumi A. H. , Kalaf F. G. A.
Published: September 2017

6‐Mercaptopurine has been utilized for the synthesis of various fused purine analogues through different chemical reactions to yield [1,4]thiazino[4,3,2‐gh]purines 2, 3, 10a,b, 14, (8‐oxo‐[1,4]thiazino[4,3,2‐gh]purin‐7(8H)‐ylidene) acetate 4, [1,4]thiazepino[4,3,2‐gh]purine 6, thiazolo[3,4,5‐gh]purine 7, imidazo[1,5,4‐gh]purin‐5‐amine 8, 5‐methylimidazo[1,5,4‐gh]purine 9, [1,2,4]triazino[4,3‐i]purines 16, 18, 21, [1,2,4]triazino[4,5,6‐gh]purine 20, 5‐methyl‐2‐(7H‐purin‐6‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazol‐3(2H)‐one 22, [1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐i]purine 23, [1,2,5]triazepino[5,4,3‐gh]purine 24, and ethyl 6‐(2‐(ethoxycarbonyl)hydrazinyl)‐9H‐purine‐9‐carboxylate 26. Seventeen of the newly synthesized compounds were selected by the NCI, Maryland, USA, and were tested for their anticancer activity in an initial single high dose in the full NCI 60 cell line panel among which [1,4]thiazino[4,3,2‐gh]purine‐7,8‐dione 2, 7‐benzyl‐[1,4]thiazino[4,3,2‐gh]purine 10b, and 3‐(2,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐7H‐[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐i]purine 23 were found to possess very potent anticancer activity against most of the cancer cell lines.
A Study on the Intramolecular Mitsunobu Reaction of N6‐(ω‐Hydroxyalkyl)adenines
Authors: Šimůnková Naděžda , Tobrman Tomáš , Eigner Václav , Dvořák Dalimil
Published: September 2017

The cyclization of N6‐(ω‐hydroxyalkyl)adenines with a N6H‐group leads to N6,N1 ring closure regardless of the method of the cyclization that was used. Five‐membered to eight‐membered rings were obtained using NBS/PPh3; however, under Mitsunobu conditions, the eight‐membered fused purine was not formed. Surprisingly, the cyclization of N6‐methyl‐N6‐(4‐hydroxybutyl)adenine only leads to N6,N7 ring closure using both methods.
Adjustable beam lighting with LED matrix and lens array
Authors: Zhang Yuning , Tang Jinglang , Wang Jieyu , Liu Ningning , Wang Feixia , Geng Di
Published: September 2017

An adjustable beam lighting solution is coming widely on demand for different applications with improved energy efficiency, reduced light pollution, or enriched decorative effects. A Matrix Lighting configuration, which mainly consists of a light‐emitting diode matrix and a lens array, is proposed as a promising adjustable beam lighting solution. It easily builds up the source‐target mapping based on the integral imaging principle, and it could adjust the light beam and shape freely and timely. The basic configuration, the general design rules with imaging optics, and the optimization approaches based on ray tracing were presented. An example lighting system consists of a 32 × 32 × RGB light‐emitting diode matrix, and the 8 × 8 Fresnel lens array is demonstrated, which accomplishes a localized lighting with addressable regions for power saving. It can also project colorful patterns on the ground or a wall for atmosphere heightening.
Monitoring of transferrin isoforms in biological samples by capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Caslavska Jitka , Thormann Wolfgang
Published: September 2017

Work dealing with the monitoring of transferrin isoforms in human serum and other body fluids by capillary electrophoresis is reviewed. It comprises capillary zone electrophoresis and capillary isoelectric focusing efforts that led to the exploration and use of assays for the determination of carbohydrate‐deficient transferrin as a marker for excessive alcohol intake, genetic variants of transferrin, congenital disorders of glycosylation and β‐2‐transferrin, which is a marker for cerebrospinal fluid leakage. This paper provides insight into the development, specifications, strengths, weaknesses, and routine use of the currently known capillary electrophoresis based assays suitable to detect transferrin isoforms in body fluids. The achievements reached so far indicate that capillary zone electrophoresis is an attractive technology to monitor the molecular forms of transferrin in biological specimens as the assays do not require an elaborate sample pretreatment and thus can be fully automated for high‐throughput analyses on multicapillary instruments. Assays based on capillary isoelectric focusing are less attractive. They require immunoextraction of transferrin from the biological matrix and mobilization after focusing if instrumentation with a whole‐column imaging detector is not available. Interactions of the carrier ampholytes with the iron of transferrin may prevent iron saturation and thus provide more complicated isoform patterns.
Transvaginal Ultrasound‐Guided Core Needle Biopsy of Pelvic Masses
Authors: Lin Shi‐Yang , Xiong Yong‐Hong , Yun Miao , Liu Long‐Zhong , Zheng Wei , Lin Xi , Pei Xiao‐Qing , Li An‐Hua
Published: September 2017

Objectives

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of transvaginal ultrasound (US)‐guided core needle biopsy (CNB) for obtaining adequate pelvic mass samples for histologic analysis and evaluated factors that may affect biopsy success.

Methods

Two hundred cases underwent transvaginal US‐guided CNBs for primary inoperable tumors, suspicion of metastases to the ovaries or peritoneum, recurrence, or other solid lesions in the pelvis. Biopsy samples were obtained from the pelvic cavity (67.0%), vaginal cuff or vaginal wall (17.5%), or peritoneal cake (15.5%). The potential influences of the biopsy site (pelvic cavity, vaginal cuff or vaginal wall, or peritoneal cake), vascularization, ascites, tumor size, and tumor type (inoperable, metastases, recurrence, or solid pelvic tumor) on the success of transvaginal US‐guided CNB were evaluated by a univariate analysis.

Results

Adequate samples were obtained in 192 of 200 biopsies (96.0%), of which 190 yielded successful diagnoses (95.0%). The biopsy site had a significant effect on biopsy adequacy, as there was a significantly lower probability of obtaining satisfactory specimens for histologic verification from the peritoneal cake compared to pelvic tumors and the vaginal cuff or vaginal wall (P < .01). Adequacy was also affected by tumor size (P < .05) but not by vascularization, ascites, or tumor type. No complications occurred during the biopsy procedures.

Conclusions

Transvaginal US‐guided CNB is a safe and effective alternative to more invasive methods for evaluating pelvic lesions, such as laparoscopy and laparotomy.
Small‐for‐size grafts increase recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma in liver transplantation beyond milan criteria
Authors: Lee Eung Chang , Kim Seong Hoon , Shim Jae Ryong , Park Sang‐Jae
Published: September 2017

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has been reported to have high rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence compared with deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT). This has been assumed to be due to the frequent use of small‐for‐size grafts (SFSGs) in LDLT rather than DDLT, but the relationship between graft size and prognosis remains controversial. This study aimed to clarify the effect of SFSGs on the oncologic outcomes of patients with HCC who underwent LDLT. Between January 2005 and December 2015, 597 consecutive patients underwent LDLT. Among these patients, those with HCC who underwent LDLT were randomly matched at a 1:3 ratio (graft‐to‐recipient body weight ratio [GRWR] < 0.8%:GRWR > 0.8%) according to propensity score. HCC recurrence and patient survival were analyzed using the Kaplan‐Meier method and log‐rank test. In addition, stratified subgroup analysis based on the Milan criteria was performed. SFSG was defined as a GRWR < 0.8%. Using propensity score matching, 82 patients with GRWR < 0.8% and 246 patients with GRWR ≥ 0.8% were selected. For patients with HCC within the Milan criteria, no significant difference of HCC recurrence (P = 0.82) and patient survival (P = 0.95) was found based on GRWR. However, for patients with HCC beyond the Milan criteria, 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year recurrence‐free survival rates were 52.4%, 49.3%, and 49.3%, respectively, for patients with GRWR < 0.8%, and 76.5%, 68.3%, and 64.3%, respectively, for patients with GRWR ≥ 0.8% (P = 0.049). The former group exhibited poor patient survival rates (P = 0.047). In conclusion, for patients with HCC within the Milan criteria, no significant difference in oncologic outcomes was found based on liver graft size. However, among the patients with HCC beyond the Milan criteria, SFSG recipients showed poor oncologic outcomes. Because extended criteria are frequently used in LDLT for HCC, a recipient's prognosis can be improved if a liver graft of appropriate size is carefully selected during donor selection. Liver Transplantation 24 35–43 2018 AASLD.