bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SP174, NRAS Q61R Mutant-Specific Antibody, Cross-Reacts With KRAS Q61R Mutant Protein in Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Lasota Jerzy , Kowalik Artur , Felisiak-Golabek Anna , Inaguma Shingo , Wang Zeng-Feng , Pięciak Liliana , Zięba Sebastian , Pęksa Rafał , Kopczynski Janusz , Okoń Krzysztof , Waloszczyk Piotr , Gozdz Stanislaw , Biernat Wojciech , Miettinen Markku
Published: March 2017

Context.—

NRAS is a member of the RAS family oncoproteins implicated in cancer. Gain-of-function NRAS mutations were reported in a subset of colorectal cancers. These mutations occur at codons 12, 13, and 61 and are detected by molecular genetic testing. Recently, an antibody (clone SP174) became available to immunohistochemically pinpoint NRAS Q61R mutant protein. In malignant melanoma, NRAS Q61R mutant–specific immunohistochemistry was shown to be a valuable supplement to traditional genetic testing.

Objective.—

To evaluate the significance of NRAS Q61R mutant–specific immunohistochemistry in a cohort of colorectal carcinomas.

Design.—

A total of 1185 colorectal carcinomas were immunohistochemically evaluated with SP174 antibody. NRAS Q61R mutant–specific immunohistochemistry was validated by molecular genetic testing including Sanger sequencing, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and next-generation sequencing.

Results.—

Twelve tumors showed strong SP174 immunoreactivity. Sanger sequencing detected an identical c.182A>G substitution, causing NRAS Q61R mutation at the protein level, only in 8 SP174-positive cases. These results were confirmed by qPCR study. Subsequently, NRAS wild-type tumors with strong SP174 staining were evaluated by next-generation sequencing and revealed KRAS c.182A>G substitutions predicted to cause KRAS Q61R mutation. Review of colorectal carcinomas with known KRAS and NRAS genotype revealed that none of 62 wild-type tumors or 47 mutants other than Q61R were SP174 positive.

Conclusion.—

SP174 immunohistochemistry allows sensitive detection of NRAS and KRAS Q61R mutants. However, molecular genetic testing is necessary to determine specifically which RAS gene is mutated.
Recent Developments in Surgical Pathology of the Uterine Corpus
Authors: Hanley Krisztina Z. , Birdsong George G. , Mosunjac Marina B.
Published: March 2017

There have been several updates recently on the classification of uterine tumors. Endometrial carcinomas have traditionally been divided into 2 types, but some are difficult to classify and do not fit readily into either of the currently recognized categories. The Cancer Genome Atlas Research Network has recently defined 4 new categories of endometrial cancer on the basis of mutational spectra, copy number alteration, and microsatellite instability, which might provide independent prognostic information beyond established risk factors. The Society of Gynecologic Oncology, moreover, now recommends systematic screening of every patient with endometrial cancer for Lynch syndrome. The new definition of high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma disregards the number of mitotic figures as a primary diagnostic criterion and instead specifies moderate atypia still resembling stromal origin but lacking the pleomorphism of undifferentiated uterine sarcoma; these tumors also harbor a JAZF1-SUZ12 gene rearrangement. Mitotic count, atypia, and coagulative necrosis are the main histologic criteria that define leiomyosarcoma. Determining the type of necrosis can be very challenging in patients receiving various treatment modalities for symptomatic fibroids before myomectomy, since key histologic features of ischemic-type necrosis are often absent. Ancillary stains including p16, p53, MIB-1, trichrome, and reticulin may be helpful in tumors harboring necrosis that is difficult to classify. Minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries have introduced histologic artifacts that complicate the diagnosis. It is essential to recognize these as procedure-related artifacts to avoid upstaging tumors and triggering unnecessary adjuvant treatment.
Anisotropic Fluid Phase Formed by Ionic Liquid-Crystalline Materials with Ammonium Ions
Authors: Tomitaka Shiori , Wu Jinzhi , Nata Masanori , Ujiie Seiji
Published: March 2017

Ionic liquid-crystalline materials (ILCMs) with ammonium ions were synthesized. Their thermal and orientational properties were studied by polarizing microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The ILCMs formed the smectic A phase on heating and cooling. A focal conic fan texture was observed in the phase. In addition, the ILCMs spontaneously formed a perpendicular alignment in the smectic A phase. The XRD patterns of the ILCMs consisted of sharp reflections in the small-angle region and broad band in the wide-angle region in the smectic A phase.
Enhanced Eosin Mineralization in Presence of Au(III) Ions in Aqueous Solutions Containing TiO2 as Suspension
Authors: Dey G.R. , Singh P.
Published: March 2017

Photo-catalytic mineralization of eosin in aerated 0.1% (w/v) TiO2 suspended aqueous systems with and without Au3+using 350 nm photo light was carried out. Eosin mineralization rate was significantly faster in 2×10-4 M Au3+containing systems in contrast to sole TiO2 systems, which is due to the participation of Au3+and it’s in situ generated various reduced intermediates including gold nanoparticles during mineralization. Furthermore, pulse radiolysis (a well known transient measurement technique) was adopted to analyze the reaction intermediates (eosin-OH adducts and/or eosin radical cation) produced in mineralization by generating in situ •OH and N3• species. The reaction rates for •OH and N3• reactions with eosin evaluated respectively 5.4×109 and 3.0×109 dm3 mol-1 s-1 for the formation of radical cations were slower than the eosin-OH adduct formation rate (reaction rate = 1.4×1010 dm3 mol-1 s-1). Furthermore, it is proposed that the initially generated eosin-•OH/hole adduct is undergoing mineralization in the presence of air/oxygen.
Design and Interaction in the Narratives of Decoration Discourse
Authors: Zaytoon Heba
Published: March 2017

The vast literature on discourse analysis includes many studies which investigate different types of texts and attempts to identify the properties that characterize them. The present study proposes an analysis of the narrative aspect in decoration discourse with the aim of revealing the textual features and organization that are uniquely utilized by this type of discourse and to clarify facets of similarities and differences from traditional narratives. The study explores the utilization of the problem-solution pattern and the goal-achievement pattern to communicate the intended message. Language with its pragmatic aspects plays an essential role in the construction and interpretation of such narratives. The database includes a variety of narratives extracted from different decoration and household magazines. Sharing experiences through narratives serves a broader function of establishing certain norms and standards to be followed by the majority of the population. By abiding to these norms, individuals strive to be affiliated to a particular social standard; the one intended by authors and publishers of these magazines.
Strategically Mediated Reflective Practice Framework In Terms of Task, Meaningful Learning, and Interaction
Authors: Shokouhi Mehdi , Birjandi Parviz , Maftoon Parviz
Published: March 2017

It is widely accepted that reflective teaching in its purely cognitive and introspective sense cannot be responsive to the dilemmas and the problems with which teachers encounter during their teaching practice. Thus, the present study believes that the very tentative solution to this problem is introducing teacher education in general and reflective practice in particular from a sociocultural perspective where any sort of knowledge is dialogically constructed as a result of interaction among individuals. Although the shift in paradigm, i.e. moving from a cognitive position to a more situated and social epistemology in teacher education, has already been acknowledged and addressed by scholars such as Johnson (2006, 2009), Johnson and Golombek (2003), Golombek (2011), Freeman (2004), and Hawkins (2004), the current literature on teacher education reveals of no direct or serious attempt as a framework in which such a view has been put into practice in teacher education. As a result, the present study proposed a tentative framework under the rubric of ‘Strategically Mediated Reflective Practice’ (henceforth SMRP) framework that treats reflective practice largely as an interactive process rather than an individualistic and demonstrates how reflective practice is strategically mediated with the help of more knowledgeable others and new insights emerge resulting from dialogical thinking, highlighting the Vygotskian notion of Concept development. More importantly, examining the SMRP framework with four participants, the present study evidently reports the affirmative and constructive outcome of this framework on the utilitarian ground language teaching.
The Influence of MUET Score and First Language towards English as a Second (ESL) Learners’ Self-Confidence
Authors: Kahiruddin Zulaikha
Published: March 2017

Speaking skill is an important skill among the four English skills and it is also known as expressive skill.  Hence, it is important for students to speak in English confidently and using speaking strategies in order to avoid anxiousness. The two objectives of this study are to identify level of confidence when speaking among Law students and to determine if there is any significant difference in level of confidence when speaking among Law students based on their demographic details (MUET result, first language) respectively. This study employed a purely quantitative study. The instrument used in this study was questionnaire and 380 respondents which consisted of Law students from four local universities in Malaysia) participated in this study The result from this study indicated the level of self-confidence among Law students was above average and it was also portrayed that there was a significant difference in terms of Law students’ level of self-confidence based on their MUET result and first language correspondingly. Thus, from the results of the study, it is recommended for the stakeholders which are lecturers, the Faculty of Law, the universities and the policy maker to develop more authentic materials and environment for the students.
Systemic Functional Theory: A Pickax of Textual Investigation
Authors: Dalamu Taofeek
Published: March 2017

The study examines Systemic Functional Theory (SFT) as a tool of examining text, and perhaps, text of any dimension as long as it falls within the grammatical organs of the clause. The author provides explanations for the theory from its relevant source(s). The chronological appreciation involves the efforts of Saussure, Firth, Malinowski, Hjelmslev, etc. However, Halliday’s insight seems prominent and upon which Systemic Functional Theory receives a global status that it has assumed today. Halliday constructs numerous concepts e.g. lexicogrammar, processes, cohesion, coherence, system, system network with background from traditional grammar and sociological tokens. In addition to that, the three metafunctions are characterized as its core operational concepts. Out of these, the mood system serves as the instrument of analysis of Psalm one utilized in this endeavor as a case study. Although the clauses fall within the profile of the indicative and imperative, the study reveals that some of the structures are inverted in order to propagate the intended messages. To that end, there are inverted indicative clauses expressed as inverted declarative statements, inverted imperative questions and inverted negativized polarity. In sum, Systemic Functional Theory is a facility for explaining different shapes of texts.
Digital reconstruction of the mandible of an adultLesothosaurus diagnosticuswith insight into the tooth replacement process and diet
Authors: Sciscio Lara , Knoll Fabien , Bordy Emese M. , de Kock Michiel O. , Redelstorff Ragna
Published: March 2017

Fragmentary caudal ends of the left and right mandible assigned toLesothosaurus diagnosticus, an early ornithischian, was recently discovered in the continental red bed succession of the upper Elliot Formation (Lower Jurassic) at Likhoele Mountain (Mafeteng District) in Lesotho. Using micro-CT scanning, this mandible could be digitally reconstructed in 3D. The replacement teeth within the better preserved (left) dentary were visualised. The computed tomography dataset suggests asynchronous tooth replacement in an individual identified as an adult on the basis of bone histology. Clear evidence for systematic wear facets created by attrition is lacking. The two most heavily worn teeth are only apically truncated. Our observations of this specimen as well as others do not support the high level of dental wear expected from the semi-arid palaeoenvironment in whichLesothosaurus diagnosticuslived. Accordingly, a facultative omnivorous lifestyle, where seasonality determined the availability, quality, and abundance of food is suggested. This would have allowed for adaptability to episodes of increased environmental stress.
18F-FAMT-PET Is Useful for Judging Clinical Complete Response in Advanced Esophageal Cancer Patients Who Have Received Definitive Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Sohda Makoto , Honjyo Hiroaki , Hara Keigo , Ozawa Daigo , Suzuki Shigemasa , Tanaka Naritaka , Sano Akihiko , Sakai Makoto , Inose Takanori , Miyazaki Tatsuya , Higuchi Tetsuya , Tsushima Yoshito , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: March 2017

We developed l-[3-18F]-α-methyltyrosine (18F-FAMT) as an amino acid tracer for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. In esophageal cancer, the specificity of 18F-FAMT PET was significantly higher than that of fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (18F-FDG) PET and computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of individual lymph node groups. Definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) has been considered a potentially curative treatment for locoregional esophageal cancer and may achieve the same survival benefits as surgical resection. Clinical evaluation of complete response (CR) is important using several modalities. We evaluated 6 patients who had been diagnosed with clinical CR by FAMT-PET following definitive CRT for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma between June 2008 and July 2012. Treatment evaluation of 18F-FAMT was performed following CRT and approximately 1 month later. In primary tumors, 66.7% of patients (4/6) showed FDG uptake following CRT, whereas that of FAMT was 33.3% (2/6). In lymph node metastases, 50% of patients (3/6) showed FDG uptake following CRT, whereas that of FAMT was 0% (0/6). In the present study, FAMT-PET following CRT was a useful modality to predict clinical CR in esophageal cancer. There is a limit to judging clinical CR by CT or FDG-PET following CRT, because radiation-related esophagitis and reactive mediastinal lymphadenopathy by FDG and wall thickness by CT still remain 1 month following CRT. FAMT-PET is the most useful modality at the present time.
Venous thromboembolism following initiation of atypical antipsychotics in two geriatric patients
Authors: Maestri Thomas J. , Koenig Jessica , Masuda Christine , Smith Tawny L. , Garcia-Pittman Erica C.
Published: March 2017

Background:

Although not formally highlighted as a risk factor in current practice guidelines, several observational studies have reported a possible association between antipsychotic use and development of venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, it is unclear to what extent the risk is elevated.

Case Report:

Described are 2 cases of VTE following recent initiation of second-generation antipsychotics in elderly patients. Ms A was a 65-year-old woman with newly diagnosed bipolar I disorder who was hospitalized for acute mania and psychosis. She was treated with risperidone along with traditional mood stabilizers and developed a pulmonary embolism shortly after treatment initiation. Ms B was a 77-year-old woman with newly diagnosed bipolar I disorder who was hospitalized for depression and psychosis. She was treated with quetiapine and electroconvulsive therapy and developed a pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis within 2 months of starting treatment. Risk assessment tools were not able to definitively predict the VTEs that developed in our patients.

Conclusion:

The association between antipsychotic medication and VTE has shown the highest risk with atypical antipsychotics, high dosages, and initiation within the past 3 months. Risk assessment tools may assist in assessing the risk of VTE in patients on antipsychotic therapy, although patients who are deemed by these tools to have minimal risk can still develop a VTE. Discussing VTE risk with patients when considering antipsychotic usage may help clinicians and patients safely determine the most appropriate treatment for their psychiatric illnesses while mitigating potential adverse effects.
Cardiometabolic management in severe mental illness requiring an atypical antipsychotic
Authors: Schmitz Allison , Rohrich Melissa , Newman William , Wolf Pamela
Published: March 2017

Introduction:

Cardiometabolic management was evaluated in patients with diabetes and a severe mental illness that require treatment with an atypical antipsychotic.

Methods:

Seventy-four patients with diabetes and a severe mental illness treated with an atypical antipsychotic from the Fargo Veterans' Affairs Health Care System were included in this retrospective study. Primary end points analyzed the change in hemoglobin A1c (Hgb A1c), blood pressure, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol 12 months prior to and 12 months following the initiation of an atypical antipsychotic. Secondary end points evaluated changes specific to clozapine and olanzapine. Additional secondary end points evaluated the medication management for cardiometabolic disease prior to and following atypical antipsychotic initiation.

Results:

In the 12 months following atypical antipsychotic initiation, there were no statistically significant changes in metabolic parameters. Mean Hgb A1c increased from 6.9% to 7.2% (P = .47), mean systolic blood pressure decreased slightly from 132 to 127.8 mm Hg (P = .97), mean diastolic blood pressure decreased slightly from 79.6 to 76.6 mm Hg (P = .19), and mean LDL remained unchanged at 104.4 mg/dL (P = .92). Medications to control cardiometabolic disease increased substantially following atypical antipsychotic initiation; 35.1%, 39.2%, and 39.2% of patients were started on one or more new antihyperglycemics, antihypertensives, and statins, respectively.

Discussion:

Patients had a significant increase in prescriptions to manage cardiometabolic disease in the 12 months following initiation of an atypical antipsychotic. Although medications to manage cardiometabolic disease increased, the actual metabolic parameters did not significantly change during the same time period.
Comparison of thermal modeling, microstructural analysis, and Ti‐in‐quartz thermobarometry to constrain the thermal history of a cooling pluton during deformation in the Mount Abbot Quadrangle, CA
Authors: Nevitt Johanna M. , Warren Jessica M. , Kidder Steven , Pollard David D.
Published: March 2017

Granitic plutons commonly preserve evidence for jointing, faulting, and ductile fabric development during cooling. Constraining the spatial variation and temporal evolution of temperature during this deformation could facilitate an integrated analysis of heterogeneous deformation over multiple length‐scales through time. Here, we constrain the evolving temperature of the Lake Edison granodiorite within the Mount Abbot Quadrangle (central Sierra Nevada, CA) during late Cretaceous deformation by combining microstructural analysis, titanium‐in‐quartz thermobarometry (TitaniQ), and thermal modeling. Microstructural and TitaniQ analyses were applied to 12 samples collected throughout the pluton, representative of either the penetrative “regional” fabric or the locally strong “fault‐related” fabric. Overprinting textures and mineral assemblages indicate the temperature decreased from 400–500°C to <350°C during faulting. TitaniQ reveals consistently lower Ti concentrations for partially reset fault‐related fabrics (average: 12 ± 4 ppm) than for regional fabrics (average: 31 ± 12 ppm), suggesting fault‐related fabrics developed later, following a period of pluton cooling. Uncertainties, particularly in TiO2 activity, significantly limit further quantitative thermal estimates using TitaniQ. In addition, we present a 1‐D heat conduction model that suggests average pluton temperature decreased from 585°C at 85 Ma to 332°C at 79 Ma, consistent with radiometric age data for the field. Integrated with the model results, microstructural temperature constraints suggest faulting initiated by ∼83 Ma, when the temperature was nearly uniform across the pluton. Thus, spatially heterogeneous deformation cannot be attributed to a persistent temperature gradient, but may be related to regional structures that develop in cooling plutons.
On the wave number 2 eastward propagating quasi 2 day wave at middle and high latitudes
Authors: Gu Sheng‐Yang , Liu Han‐Li , Pedatella N. M. , Dou Xiankang , Liu Yu
Published: March 2017

The temperature and wind data sets from the ensemble data assimilation version of the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model + Data Assimilation Research Testbed (WACCM + DART) developed at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) are utilized to study the seasonal variability of the eastward quasi 2 day wave (QTDW) with zonal wave number 2 (E2) during 2007. The aliasing ratio of E2 from wave number 3 (W3) in the synoptic WACCM data set is a constant value of 4 × 10−6% due to its uniform sampling pattern, whereas the aliasing is latitudinally dependent if the WACCM fields are sampled asynoptically based on the Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) sampling. The aliasing ratio based on SABER sampling is 75% at 40°S during late January, where and when W3 peaks. The analysis of the synoptic WACCM data set shows that the E2 is in fact a winter phenomenon, which peaks in the stratosphere and lower mesosphere at high latitudes. In the austral winter period, the amplitudes of E2 can reach ~10 K, 20 m/s, and 30 m/s for temperature, zonal, and meridional winds, respectively. In the boreal winter period, the wave perturbations are only one third as strong as those in austral winter. Diagnostic analysis also shows that the mean flow instabilities in the winter upper mesosphere polar region provide sources for the amplification of E2. This is different from the westward QTDWs, whose amplifications are related to the summer easterly jet. In addition, the E2 also peaks at lower altitude than the westward modes.
Earthquake source properties of a shallow induced seismic sequence in SE Brazil
Authors: Agurto‐Detzel Hans , Bianchi Marcelo , Prieto Germán A. , Assumpção Marcelo
Published: March 2017

We study source parameters of a cluster of 21 very shallow (<1 km depth) small‐magnitude (Mw < 2) earthquakes induced by percolation of water by gravity in SE Brazil. Using a multiple empirical Green's functions (meGf) approach, we estimate seismic moments, corner frequencies, and static stress drops of these events by inversion of their spectral ratios. For the studied magnitude range (−0.3 < Mw < 1.9), we found an increase of stress drop with seismic moment. We assess associated uncertainties by considering different signal time windows and by performing a jackknife resampling of the spectral ratios. We also calculate seismic moments by full waveform inversion to independently validate our moments from spectral analysis. We propose repeated rupture on a fault patch at shallow depth, following continuous inflow of water, as the cause for the observed low absolute stress drop values (<1 MPa) and earthquake size dependency. To our knowledge, no other study on earthquake source properties of shallow events induced by water injection with no added pressure is available in the literature. Our study suggests that source parameter characterization may provide additional information of induced seismicity by hydraulic stimulation.
Revisiting Southern Hemisphere polar stratospheric temperature trends in WACCM: The role of dynamical forcing
Authors: Calvo N. , Garcia R. R. , Kinnison D. E.
Published: March 2017

The latest version of the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM), which includes a new chemistry scheme and an updated parameterization of orographic gravity waves, produces temperature trends in the Antarctic lower stratosphere in excellent agreement with radiosonde observations for 1969–1998 as regards magnitude, location, timing, and persistence. The maximum trend, reached in November at 100 hPa, is −4.4 ± 2.8 K decade−1, which is a third smaller than the largest trend in the previous version of WACCM. Comparison with a simulation without the updated orographic gravity wave parameterization, together with analysis of the model's thermodynamic budget, reveals that the reduced trend is due to the effects of a stronger Brewer‐Dobson circulation in the new simulations, which warms the polar cap. The effects are both direct (a trend in adiabatic warming in late spring) and indirect (a smaller trend in ozone, hence a smaller reduction in shortwave heating, due to the warmer environment).
Zn‐MOF‐74 Derived N‐Doped Mesoporous Carbon as pH‐Universal Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Ye Lin , Chai Guoliang , Wen Zhenhai
Published: March 2017

It is of increasing importance to explore new low‐cost and high‐activity electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which have had a substantial impact across a diverse range of energy conversion system, including various fuel cell and metal–air batteries. Although engineering carbon nanostructures have been widely explored as a candidate class of Pt‐based ORR electrocatalysts owing to their proved high activity, outstanding stability, and ease of use, there still remains a daunting challenge to develop high activity metal‐free electrocatalysts in pH‐universal electrolyte system. Here, a reliable and controllable route amenable to prepare nitrogen‐doped porous carbon (NPC) with high yields and exceptional quality is described. The as‐prepared NPC shows advantages of high activity, high durability, and methanol‐tolerant as an efficient pH‐universal electrocatalyst for ORR, showing comparable or even better activity as compared with the commercial Pt/C catalysts not only in alkaline media but also in acidic and neutral electrolyte. Systematic electrochemical studies, combining with density functional theory calculation, demonstrate the unique nitrogen‐doping species and favorable pores in the as‐designed NPC synergistically contribute to the significantly improved catalytic activity in pH‐universal medium. The present work potentially presents an important breakthrough in developing ORR electrocatalysts for various fuel cells.
Combined Inter‐ and Intramolecular Charge‐Transfer Processes for Highly Efficient Fluorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with Reduced Triplet Exciton Quenching
Authors: Moon Chang‐Ki , Suzuki Katsuaki , Shizu Katsuyuki , Adachi Chihaya , Kaji Hironori , Kim Jang‐Joo
Published: March 2017

Inter‐ and intramolecular charge‐transfer processes are combined using an exciplex‐forming host and a thermally activated delayed fluorescent dopant, for fabricating efficient fluorescent organic light‐emitting diodes along with the reduced efficiency roll‐off at high current densities. Extra conversion on the host from triplet exciplexes to singlet exciplexes followed by energy transfer to the dopant reduces population of triplet excitons on dopant molecules, thereby reducing the triplet exciton annihilations at high current densities.
Performing Logical Operations with Stimuli‐Responsive Building Blocks
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Soh Siowling
Published: March 2017

Chemical logic gates can be fabricated by synthesizing molecules that have the ability to detect external stimuli (e.g., temperature or pH) and provide logical outputs. It is, however, challenging to fabricate a system that consists of many logic gates using this method: complex molecules can be difficult to synthesize and these logic gates typically cannot be integrated together. Here, we fabricated different types of logic gates by assembling a combination of different types of stimuli‐responsive hydrogels that change their size under the influence of one type of stimulus. Importantly, the preparation of these stimuli‐responsive hydrogels is widely reported and technically simple. Through designing the geometry of the systems, we fabricated the YES, NOT, OR, AND, NOR, and NAND gates. Although the hydrogels respond to different types of stimuli, their outputs are the same: a change in size of the hydrogel. Hence, we show that the logic gates can be integrated easily (e.g., by connecting an AND gate to an OR gate). In addition, we fabricated a standalone system with the size of a normal drug tablet (i.e., a “smart tablet”) that can analyze (or diagnose) different stimuli and control the release of a chemical (or drug) via the logic gates.
Dynamic assessment of RBC‐transfusion dependency improves the prognostic value of the revised‐IPSS in MDS patients
Authors: Hiwase Devendra K. , Singhal Deepak , Strupp Corinna , Chhetri Rakchha , Kutyna Monika M. , Wee L. Amilia , Harrison Peter B. , Nath Shriram V. , Wickham Nicholas , Hui Chi‐Hung , Gray James X. , Bardy Peter , Ross David M. , Lewis Ian D. , Reynolds John , To L. Bik , Germing Ulrich
Published: March 2017

RBC‐transfusion dependency (RBC‐TD) is an independent prognostic factor for poor overall survival (OS) in the WHO classification‐based prognostic scoring system (WPSS) for MDS patients. However, WPSS did not include cytopenia, whereas revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS‐R) did not include RBC‐TD. Thus, neither of these prognostic scoring systems incorporates both cytopenia and RBC‐TD. We aimed to test whether RBC‐TD adds prognostic value to the IPSS‐R. We analyzed MDS patients not treated with disease‐modifying therapy, and enrolled in SA‐MDS Registry (derivation cohort; n = 295) and Dusseldorf registry (Germany; validation cohort; n = 113) using time‐dependent Cox proportional regression and serial landmark analyses. In the derivation cohort, RBC‐TD patients had inferior OS compared to RBC transfusion‐independent (RBC‐TI) patients (P < 0.0001) at 6‐ (18 vs. 64 months), 12‐ (24 vs. 71 months), and 24‐months (40 vs. 87 months). In a Cox proportional regression analysis, RBC‐TD was an independent adverse prognostic marker in addition to age, sex, and IPSS‐R variables (P < 0.0001). A prognostic index (PI) was derived using these Cox‐proportional regression model variables. In the validation cohort, this PI classified patients into four prognostic groups with significantly different OS (P < 0.001) as in the derivation cohort. In conclusion, multivariate analysis by Cox proportional hazards regression and serial landmark analyses clearly demonstrates that development of RBC‐TD at any time during the course of MDS is associated with poor OS, independent of IPSS‐R. This study demonstrates that dynamic assessment of RBC‐TD provides additional prognostic value to IPSS‐R and should be included in treatment decision algorithms for MDS patients.
Nutrition and physical activity transitions in the Ecuadorian Andes: Differences among urban and rural‐dwelling women
Authors: Melby Christopher L. , Orozco Fadya , Ochoa Diana , Muquinche Maria , Padro Manuel , Munoz Fabian N.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

The nutrition and physical activity transitions, characterized by increased consumption of high energy density foods and more sedentary lifestyles, are associated with increased obesity and hypertension in Ecuador. These transitions have been characterized primarily in urban areas, which may neglect variation in specific rural areas of Ecuador. Therefore we examined the extent of the differences in dietary and activity patterns, obesity prevalence, and blood pressure (BP) in urban and rural‐dwelling women in the Ecuadorian central highlands.

Methods

Urban‐dwelling women (UW, n = 198, mean age = 44 years) from three areas of a city of 250,000 residents and rural women (RW; n = 202, mean age = 47 years) from three remote communities in the same province (Chimborazo) were randomly selected and surveyed for dietary and activity practices, BP, and anthropometrics.

Results

Ninety percent of UW reported obtaining their food primarily from markets while 65% of RW women obtained their food primarily from their own cultivation. Cookies, cakes, candies, ice cream, and French fries were consumed more frequently by UW. RW reported lower consumption of beef, poultry, and chicken, as well as fruits, milk, and white rice. UW compared to RW women spent less time walking and in strenuous work activities. Obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m2) (UW = 18.7% vs RW = 9.2%) and hypertension (UW = 15.7%, RW= 3.0%) were more common in UW. Average systolic and diastolic BP was significantly higher in UW.

Conclusions

The nutrition and physical activity transitions appear more evident in urban‐ compared to rural‐dwelling women, and are associated with more obesity and higher BP.
Regio‐ and Enantioselective Photodimerization within the Confined Space of a Homochiral Ruthenium/Palladium Heterometallic Coordination Cage
Authors: Guo Jing , Xu Yao‐Wei , Li Kang , Xiao Li‐Min , Chen Sha , Wu Kai , Chen Xu‐Dong , Fan Yan‐Zhong , Liu Jun‐Min , Su Cheng‐Yong
Published: March 2017

The photoinduced regio‐ and enantioselective coupling of naphthols and derivatives thereof is achieved in the confined chiral coordination space of a RuII metalloligand based cage. The racemic or enantiopure cages encapsulate naphthol guests, which then undergo a regiospecific 1,4‐coupling, rather than the normal 1,1‐coupling, to form 4‐(2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthyl)‐1,2‐napthoquinones; moderate stereochemical control is achieved with homochiral cages. The photoreactions proceed under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions but through distinct pathways that nevertheless involve the same radical intermediates. This unusual dimerization constitutes a very rare example of asymmetric induction in biaryl coupling by making use of coordination cages with dual functionality—photoredox reactivity and stereoselectivity.
Pump‐Probe Fragmentation Action Spectroscopy: A Powerful Tool to Unravel Light‐Induced Processes in Molecular Photocatalysts
Authors: Imanbaew Dimitri , Lang Johannes , Gelin Maxim F. , Kaufhold Simon , Pfeffer Michael G. , Rau Sven , Riehn Christoph
Published: March 2017

We present a proof of concept that ultrafast dynamics combined with photochemical stability information of molecular photocatalysts can be acquired by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry combined with time‐resolved femtosecond laser spectroscopy in an ion trap. This pump‐probe “fragmentation action spectroscopy” gives straightforward access to information that usually requires high purity compounds and great experimental efforts. Results of gas‐phase studies on the electronic dynamics of two supramolecular photocatalysts compare well to previous findings in solution and give further evidence for a directed electron transfer, a key process for photocatalytic hydrogen generation.
Rheological behaviors of carboxymethyl tamarind gum as thickener on georgette printing with disperse dyes
Authors: Wang Lili , Li Rumeng , Shao Jianzhong , Wang Zhao
Published: March 2017

The printing performances on georgette fabric with disperse dyes are closely related to the rheological behaviors of thickener used in the printing paste. Compared with sodium alginate (SA), rheological behaviors of carboxymethyl tamarind gum (CTG) were investigated by steady shear, oscillatory and transient tests. Results showed that CTG and SA exhibited typical pseudoplastic characteristics, more viscous behaviors under lower frequency and high viscosity recoverability. Flow behaviors were well predicted by Cross model at low shear rates and power‐law model at high shear rates. Viscoelastic behaviors were well depicted by Friedrich–Braun model. However, CTG had quicker shear‐thinning features and stronger elasticity than SA. In the disperse printing of georgette fabric, CTG had better screenability, higher color yield, excellent double‐sided printings, levelness, hand, color fastness, and outline sharpness instead of SA. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45000.
Ionic liquid‐modified graphene/poly(vinyl alcohol) composite with enhanced properties
Authors: Wang Lei , Wang Wenwen , Fan Ping , Zhou Menglong , Yang Jintao , Chen Feng , Zhong Mingqiang
Published: March 2017

How to preserve the structure integrity of graphene while enhance its dispersion and compatibility in matrix attracts the attention of researchers in graphene/polymer nanocomposite field. In this paper, methacryloxyethyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (DMC), a kind of ionic liquids, was first used to non‐covalently functionalize graphene in the process of graphene oxide (GO) reduction. The as‐modified graphene (DMC‐rGO) was further incorporated into poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix by solution casting technique to fabricate DMC‐rGO/PVA composites. The structure and properties of the obtained DMC‐rGO were investigated by X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Raman test. The results showed that graphene could be successfully modified by DMC through ionic–π interaction and the structure integrity of the graphene could be reserved by this non‐covalently approach. Furthermore, after co‐reduction process, some hydroxyl groups were introduced into DMC‐rGO. In virtue of these intrinsic properties of DMC‐rGO, the fabricated DMC‐rGO/PVA composites exhibit considerable enhancements in mechanical properties and remarkable improvements in thermal stability, as well as the enhancement in electrical conductivity at low DMC‐rGO loading. This simple modification approach gives a new opportunity to improve the performances of graphene/polymer composites. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45006.
Educational software usability: Artifact or Design?
Authors: Van Nuland Sonya E. , Eagleson Roy , Rogers Kem A.
Published: March 2017

Online educational technologies and e‐learning tools are providing new opportunities for students to learn worldwide, and they continue to play an important role in anatomical sciences education. Yet, as we shift to teaching online, particularly within the anatomical sciences, it has become apparent that e‐learning tool success is based on more than just user satisfaction and preliminary learning outcomes—rather it is a multidimensional construct that should be addressed from an integrated perspective. The efficiency, effectiveness and satisfaction with which a user can navigate an e‐learning tool is known as usability, and represents a construct which we propose can be used to quantitatively evaluate e‐learning tool success. To assess the usability of an e‐learning tool, usability testing should be employed during the design and development phases (i.e., prior to its release to users) as well as during its delivery (i.e., following its release to users). However, both the commercial educational software industry and individual academic developers in the anatomical sciences have overlooked the added value of additional usability testing. Reducing learner frustration and anxiety during e‐learning tool use is essential in ensuring e‐learning tool success, and will require a commitment on the part of the developers to engage in usability testing during all stages of an e‐learning tool's life cycle. Anat Sci Educ 10: 190–199. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists.
The dentato–rubro–olivary pathway revisited: New MR imaging observations regarding hypertrophic olivary degeneration
Authors: Smets Gitte , Lambert Julie , Tijssen Maud , Mai Cindy , Decramer Thomas , Vandenberghe Wim , Van Loon Johannes , Demaerel Philippe
Published: March 2017

Hypertrophic olivary degeneration (HOD) following a lesion of the dentato–rubro–olivary pathway (DROP) is a well‐known imaging finding and has extensively been described in the recent literature. We reviewed our patients with HOD as a result of a lesion of the DROP in order to analyze the disruption of the DROP and the resulting HOD in comparison with the literature. We observed unusual imaging findings in four patients. In two patients it concerned new observations related to the timing and imaging appearances of HOD. HOD became only visible 6 years after a lesion in the red nucleus in one patient and a cystic degeneration of the olivary nucleus was seen 3 years after the HOD in a second patient. In two patients we found HOD that could only be explained by the existence of an afferent feedback loop between the dentate nucleus and the inferior olivary nucleus and by the knowledge that these fibers run through the ipsilateral olivary nucleus before ending in the contralateral olivary nucleus. In one of these patients the lesion was located in the inferior cerebellar peduncle. In the other patient the lesion was located on the midline in the medulla oblongata. The imaging findings in these patients reveal new observations in the stages of imaging appearances in HOD and shed light on the forgotten dentato–olivary afferent feedback loop of the DROP. Clin. Anat. 30:543–549, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Redox Catalysis for Improved Counter‐Electrode Kinetics in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Fan Li , Jennings James Robert , Zakeeruddin Shaik M. , Grätzel Michael , Wang Qing
Published: March 2017

Developing high‐performance, low‐cost electrocatalysts for the reduction reaction at the cathode of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSCs) is important for their commercialization. Here, we introduce the concept of redox catalysis for improving counter‐electrode (CE) kinetics in DSCs for the first time. As a proof‐of‐concept, we employ a catalytic system based on mesoporous indium‐tin oxide electrodes modified by redox‐active Os complex molecules (Os@ITO), which are fabricated by using a convenient method similar to that used for sensitizing the DSC photoanode. The adsorbed molecular catalyst displays high catalytic activity for the reduction of I3− species in aqueous solution, and dramatically increased fill factor (FF) in photovoltaic measurements. Analysis of DSC current‐voltage characteristics under simulated sunlight, together with current‐overpotential characteristics and electrochemical impedance spectra of various CEs, reveals that the photovoltaic performance enhancement brought about by anchoring the Os complex to the mesoporous ITO electrode can be attributed to a roughly ten‐fold enhancement in exchange current density for the I−/I3− redox reaction. It is anticipated that these results will stimulate further research into redox catalysis as a new CE concept for DSCs.
Solvent‐Free Synthesis of ITQ‐12, ITQ‐13, and ITQ‐17 Zeolites
Authors: Wu Qinming , Liu Xiaolong , Zhu Longfeng , Meng Xiangju , Deng Feng , Fan Fengtao , Feng Zhaochi , Li Can , Maurer Stefan , Feyen Mathias , Müller Ulrich , Xiao Feng‐Shou
Published: March 2017

Development of the sustainable routes for synthesis of ITQ‐family zeolites is very important because of their unique structures and excellent catalytic and adsorptive properties. The burden of costly raw materials and low efficiency of synthesis put a strong challenge for their widespread commercial application. Here, we show an alternative and simple route for synthesis of ITQ‐12, ITQ‐13, and ITQ‐17 zeolites using commercially available organic templates by a facile grinding process of anhydrous starting raw solids, followed by heating at 140—180 °C. Compared with the conventional hydrothermal synthesis, this approach has obvious advantages such as employment of low‐cost organic templates with very high effectiveness, high yield of zeolite products, short crystallization time, and relatively simple procedures. This methodology might open a pathway to synthesize ITQ zeolites with more sustainable manner.
Combination of imaging flow cytometry and time‐lapse microscopy for the study of label‐free morphology dynamics of hematopoietic cells
Authors: Cosette Jérémie , Moussy Alice , Paldi Andras , Stockholm Daniel
Published: March 2017

Cell differentiation is a longitudinal and dynamic process. Studying and quantifying such a process require tools combining precise time resolution and statistical power. Imaging flow cytometry (IFC) provides statistically significant number of microscopy images of individual cells in a sample at a given time point. Time‐lapse microscopy (TLM) is the method of choice for studying the dynamics of cell processes at a high temporal, but low statistical resolution. In this work, we show that the dynamic changes of cord‐blood derived CD34+ cells in response to cytokine stimulation can be successfully studied, in a label‐free way, by the combination of the IFCs statistical power and the TLM's high time resolution. Cell morphology phenotypes were quantified through roundness and surface area, measured both in IFC and with a homemade segmentation algorithm in TLM. Two distinct morphologies—polarized and round—were observed in cord‐blood derived CD34+. We show that some cells have the ability to fluctuate between these morphologies, suggesting that the apparent stable composition of round and polarized cells may actually represent a dynamic equilibrium. This example demonstrates that the different resolutions and modalities of IFC and TLM are complementary and allow the study of complex dynamic biological processes. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
A hidden Markov movement model for rapidly identifying behavioral states from animal tracks
Authors: Whoriskey Kim , Auger‐Méthé Marie , Albertsen Christoffer M. , Whoriskey Frederick G. , Binder Thomas R. , Krueger Charles C. , Mills Flemming Joanna
Published: March 2017

Electronic telemetry is frequently used to document animal movement through time. Methods that can identify underlying behaviors driving specific movement patterns can help us understand how and why animals use available space, thereby aiding conservation and management efforts. For aquatic animal tracking data with significant measurement error, a Bayesian state‐space model called the first‐Difference Correlated Random Walk with Switching (DCRWS) has often been used for this purpose. However, for aquatic animals, highly accurate tracking data are now becoming more common. We developed a new hidden Markov model (HMM) for identifying behavioral states from animal tracks with negligible error, called the hidden Markov movement model (HMMM). We implemented as the basis for the HMMM the process equation of the DCRWS, but we used the method of maximum likelihood and the R package TMB for rapid model fitting. The HMMM was compared to a modified version of the DCRWS for highly accurate tracks, the DCRWS, and to a common HMM for animal tracks fitted with the R package moveHMM. We show that the HMMM is both accurate and suitable for multiple species by fitting it to real tracks from a grey seal, lake trout, and blue shark, as well as to simulated data. The HMMM is a fast and reliable tool for making meaningful inference from animal movement data that is ideally suited for ecologists who want to use the popular DCRWS implementation and have highly accurate tracking data. It additionally provides a groundwork for development of more complex modeling of animal movement with TMB. To facilitate its uptake, we make it available through the R package swim.