bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semianalytical solution for power‐law polymer solution flow in a converging annular spinneret
Authors: Chen Yi‐Rui , Chen Liang‐Hsun , Tung Kuo‐Lun , Li Yu‐Ling , Chen Yu‐Shao , Hu Che‐Chia , Chuang Ching‐Jung
Published: May 2015

A semianalytical solution for a power‐law fluid flowing through a conical annulus was derived to estimate the velocity profile in the axial direction, the shear rate and the elongation rate within a spinneret during the spinning of hollow fiber membranes. The angle coefficient was introduced as a new parameter to account for the effect of radial flow and to modify the governing equation, which initially neglected the effect of radial flow. The results estimated from this semianalytical solution agreed more closely with computational fluid dynamics simulation results than those obtained from the approximate analytical solution in our previous study. By accurately predicting the velocity profile in the axial direction and the shear and elongation rates in a conical annulus, the solution derived in this study is expected to provide a reliable criterion for spinneret design to achieve a specified membrane morphology with a desired performance. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 3489–3499, 2015
Report of a case of Raine syndrome and literature review
Authors: Seidahmed Mohammed Zain , Alazami Anas M. , Abdelbasit Omer Bashir , Al Hussein Khalid , Miqdad Abeer M. , Abu‐Sa'da Omar , Mustafa Tareq , Bahjat Sarah , Alkuraya Fowzan S.
Published: May 2015

We report on a case of Raine syndrome with a mutation in FAM20C and typical phenotypic features consisting of midface hypoplasia, hypoplastic nose, choanal atresia, wide fontanelle, exophthalmos, generalized osteosclerosis and intracranial calcification. New features in our patient are cerebellar hypoplasia and pachygyria. We review the literature and conclude that the triad of hypoplastic nose, exophthalmos and generalized osteosclerosis and/or intracranial calcification is consistent in all molecularly confirmed cases. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ein minimales β‐Lacton‐Gerüst für selektive β5c‐ oder β5i‐Proteasominhibitoren
Authors: Groll Michael , Korotkov Vadim S. , Huber Eva M. , de Meijere Armin , Ludwig Antje
Published: May 2015

Typ‐unselektive Proteasominhibitoren werden in der Krebstherapie eingesetzt. Selektive Hemmung des Immunproteasoms könnte dagegen der Therapie von Autoimmunkrankheiten dienen. Im Rahmen dieser Arbeit wurden minimale Strukturelemente identifiziert, welche die Selektivität von Inhibitoren für die proteasomalen Untereinheiten β5c und β5i bestimmen. Ausgehend von dem Naturstoff Belactosin C wurden zwei β‐Lactone synthetisiert, die neben einer Dimethoxybenzyl‐Einheit entweder eine Methylpropyl‐ (Pseudo‐Isoleucin) oder eine Isopropyl‐P1‐Seitenkette (Pseudo‐Valin) tragen. Das Isoleucin‐Derivat ist gegenüber der β5i‐Untereinheit (IC50=14 nM) sechsfach wirksamer als das Valin‐Pendant. Zellkulturexperimente bestätigen die Zellgängigkeit beider Substanzen, und röntgenkristallographische Daten visualisieren die Besetzung der gestrichenen und nichtgestrichenen Substratbindekanäle des Proteasoms. β‐Lactone sind somit bestens für die Entwicklung nichtpeptidischer Proteasominhibitoren geeignet.
Practical Continuous‐Flow Trapping Metalations of Functionalized Arenes and Heteroarenes Using TMPLi in the Presence of Mg, Zn, Cu, or La Halides
Authors: Becker Matthias R. , Knochel Paul
Published: May 2015

The flow metalation of various arenes and heteroarenes involving an in situ trapping with metal salts (ZnCl2⋅2 LiCl, MgCl2, CuCN⋅2 LiCl, LaCl3⋅2 LiCl) under very convenient conditions (0 °C, 40 s) is reported. The resulting Mg, Zn, Cu, or La organic species are trapped with various electrophiles in high yields. In several cases, unusual kinetically controlled regioselectivities are obtained. All these flow metalations can be scaled up simply by extending the reaction time and without further optimization. The reaction scope of such flow metalations is considerably broader than that of the corresponding batch procedures.
Pd(II) complexes of Schiff bases and their application as catalysts in Mizoroki–Heck and Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions
Authors: Keleş Mustafa , Keleş Hülya , Emir Duygu Melis
Published: May 2015

Schiff bases of 2‐(phenylthio)aniline, (C6H5)SC6H4NCR (R = (o‐CH3)(C6H5), (o‐OCH3)(C6H5) or (o‐CF3)(C6H5)), and their palladium complexes (PdLCl2) were synthesized. The compounds were characterized using 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy and micro analysis. Also, electrochemical properties of the ligands and Pd(II) complexes were investigated in dimethylformamide–LiClO4 solution with cyclic and square wave voltammetry techniques. The Pd(II) complexes showed both reversible and quasi‐reversible processes in the −1.5 to 0.3 V potential range. The synthesized Pd(II) complexes were evaluated as catalysts in Mizoroki–Heck and Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel polyketones with pendant imidazolium groups as nanodispersants of hydrophobic antibiotics
Authors: Araya‐Hermosilla Esteban , Orellana Sandra L. , Toncelli Claudio , Picchioni Francesco , Moreno‐Villoslada Ignacio
Published: May 2015

In this work, we present a new method to nanodisperse the pH‐sensitive antibiotics oxolinic acid and flumequine by the use of a pH‐sensitive synthetic polyketone derivative with amphiphilic characteristics. The pH‐sensitive polymer bears imidazolium residues on pendant groups as weak acids, and its solvophobic properties can be tuned by changing the pH. While the antibiotics are soluble in water at pHs higher than 7.0 for flumequine and 8.4 for oxolinic acid, and the polymer is soluble in water at pHs lower than 5.5, nanoprecipitates presenting hydrodynamic radius of 35–100 nm and positive zeta potential containing both the polymer and any of the antibiotics are formed at pH 6.8 by mixing stock solutions whose pH has been adjusted to 5.4 for the polymer and higher than 10 for the antibiotics. The out‐of‐equilibrium process occurring upon mixing both solutions produces pH changing, molecular arrangement, and a controlled collapse of the system in the form of nano‐ and submicron particles. The driving forces for the arrangements are found among hydrophobic forces, long‐range electrostatic interactions, and short range aromatic–aromatic interactions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42363.
Cationic polymerization behavior of β‐methylglycidyl ether derivatives and physical properties of their cationically cured materials
Authors: Tamaso Ken‐ichi , Ogawa Ryo , Matsumoto Kozo , Endo Takeshi
Published: May 2015

β‐Methylglycidyl ethers have been applied to Electrical and Electronic adhesives. However, there is no report about the detailed polymerization behavior and physical properties of their cured products. Hence, we investigated cationic polymerization behavior of bisphenol A di(β‐methylglycidyl) ether (Me‐BADGE) and physical properties of the cured products containing Me‐BADGE. DSC analysis suggested that Me‐BADGE could be cured completely at lower temperature than bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE). Physical properties were analyzed by dynamic viscoelastic analysis. Glass transition temperature (Tg) of BADGE homopolymer was 194°C. In contrast, the copolymer of BADGE (50 wt %) with Me‐BADGE (50 wt %) showed Tg at 124°C. According to the data of E’ and tan δ, crosslink density of the cured products decreased with increasing the Me‐BADGE content. The analysis of cationic polymerization of monofunctional β‐methylglycidyl ether suggested that the cationic polymerization proceeded not only through oxonium cation but also through carbocation formed by ring‐opening reaction of oxonium cation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42377.
Self‐perception of competencies in adolescents with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Furlano Rosaria , Kelley Elizabeth A. , Hall Layla , Wilson Daryl E.
Published: May 2015

Research has demonstrated that, despite difficulties in multiple domains, children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) show a lack of awareness of these difficulties. A misunderstanding of poor competencies may make it difficult for individuals to adjust their behaviour in accordance with feedback and may lead to greater impairments over time. This study examined self‐perceptions of adolescents with ASD (n = 19) and typically developing (TD) mental‐age‐matched controls (n = 22) using actual performance on objective academic tasks as the basis for ratings. Before completing the tasks, participants were asked how well they thought they would do (pre‐task prediction). After completing each task, they were asked how well they thought they did (immediate post‐performance) and how well they would do in the future (hypothetical future post‐performance). Adolescents with ASD had more positively biased self‐perceptions of competence than TD controls. The ASD group tended to overestimate their performance on all ratings of self‐perceptions (pre‐task prediction, immediate, and hypothetical future post‐performance). In contrast, while the TD group was quite accurate at estimating their performance immediately before and after performing the task, they showed some tendency to overestimate their future performance. Future investigation is needed to systematically examine possible mechanisms that may be contributing to these biased self‐perceptions. Autism Res 2015, 8: 761–770. © 2015 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of biotechnological advances on the future of US bioenergy
Authors: Davison Brian H. , Brandt Craig C. , Guss Adam M. , Kalluri Udaya C. , Palumbo Antony V. , Stouder Richard L. , Webb Erin G.
Published: May 2015

Modern biotechnology has the potential to substantially advance the feasibility, structure, and efficiency of future biofuel supply chains. Advances might be direct or indirect. A direct advance would be improving the efficiency of biochemical conversion processes and feedstock production. Direct advances in processing may involve developing improved enzymes and bacteria to convert lignocellulosic feedstocks to ethanol. Progress in feedstock production could include enhancing crop yields via genetic modification or the selection of specific natural variants and breeds. Other direct results of biotechnology might increase the production of fungible biofuels and bioproducts, which would impact the supply chain. Indirect advances might include modifications to dedicated bioenergy crops that enable them to grow on marginal lands rather than land needed for food production. This study assesses the feasibility and advantages of near‐future (10‐year) biotechnological developments for a US biomass‐based supply chain for bioenergy production. We assume a simplified supply chain of feedstock, logistics and land use, conversion, and products and utilization. The primary focus is how likely developments in feedstock production and conversion technologies will impact bioenergy and biofuels in the USA; a secondary focus is other innovative uses of biotechnologies in the energy arenas. The assessment addresses near‐term biofuels based on starch, sugar, and cellulosic feedstocks and considers some longer‐term options, such as oil‐crop and algal technologies. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Persistent enhancement of bacterial motility increases tumor penetration
Authors: Thornlow Dana N. , Brackett Emily L. , Gigas Jonathan M. , Van Dessel Nele , Forbes Neil S.
Published: May 2015

Motile bacteria can overcome the transport limitations that hinder many cancer therapies. Active bacteria can penetrate through tissue to deliver treatment to resistant tumor regions. Bacterial therapy has had limited success, however, because this motility is heterogeneous, and within a population many individuals are non‐motile. In human trials, heterogeneity led to poor dispersion and incomplete tumor colonization. To address these problems, a swarm‐plate selection method was developed to increase swimming velocity. Video microscopy was used to measure the velocity distribution of selected bacteria and a microfluidic tumor‐on‐a‐chip device was used to measure penetration through tumor cell masses. Selection on swarm plates increased average velocity fourfold, from 4.9 to 18.7 μm/s (P < 0.05) and decreased the number of non‐motile individuals from 51% to 3% (P < 0.05). The selected phenotype was both robust and stable. Repeating the selection process consistently increased velocity and eliminated non‐motile individuals. When selected strains were cryopreserved and subcultured for 30.1 doublings, the high‐motility phenotype was preserved. In the microfluidic device, selected Salmonella penetrated deeper into cell masses than unselected controls. By 10 h after inoculation, control bacteria accumulated in the front 30% of cell masses, closest to the flow channel. In contrast, selected Salmonella accumulated in the back 30% of cell masses, farthest from the channel. Selection increased the average penetration distance from 150 to 400 μm (P < 0.05). This technique provides a simple and rapid method to generate high‐motility Salmonella that has increased penetration and potential for greater tumor dispersion and clinical efficacy. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2015;112: 2397–2405. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Experimental study of fat grafting under negative pressure for wounds with exposed bone
Authors: Kao H-K , Hsu H-H , Chuang W-Y , Chang K-P , Chen B , Guo L
Published: May 2015

Background

The combination of fat grafting and negative pressure (VAC) therapy represents a synergistic interaction of all essential components for wound healing. The aim of this experimental study was to determine whether it could promote healing of wounds with exposed bone.

Methods

Full-thickness wounds with denuded bone in Sprague–Dawley rats were treated with either polyurethane foam dressing, fat grafting alone, polyurethane foam dressing with VAC, or polyurethane foam dressing with VAC combined with a single, or two administrations of fat graft. Wound healing kinetics, tissue growth, cell proliferation (Ki-67) and angiogenesis (platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 and α-smooth muscle actin) were investigated. Messenger RNA levels related to angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF)), profibrosis (platelet-derived growth factor A and transforming growth factor β), adipocyte expression (fatty acid-binding protein (FABP) 4 and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ), and extracellular matrix remodelling (collagen I) were measured in wound tissues.

Results

Wounds treated by VAC combined with fat grafting were characterized by cell proliferation, neoangiogenesis and maturation of functional blood vessels; they showed accelerated granulation tissue growth over the denuded bone compared with VAC- or foam dressing-treated wounds. Fat grafting alone over denuded bone resulted in complete necrosis. Expression of angiogenesis markers (VEGF and b-FGF) and adipocyte expression factors (FABP-4) was upregulated in wounds treated with VAC combined with fat grafting.

Conclusion

Fat grafting with VAC therapy may represent a simple but effective clinical solution for a number of complex tissue defects, and warrants testing in clinical models. Surgical relevanceThe combination of fat grafting and vacuum therapy represents a synergistic interaction of regenerative cells, hospitable wound matrix and stimulating micromechanical forces. It could accelerate complex wound healing through cell proliferation, neoangiogenesis and maturation of functional blood vessels. The efficacy of a multimodal wound healing approach is established in this experimental model; it could easily be translated into clinical trials of treatment for difficult wounds.
Anatomical variations: How do surgical and radiology training programs teach and assess them in their training curricula?
Authors: Raikos Athanasios , Smith Janie Dade
Published: May 2015

Sound knowledge of anatomy and Anatomical variations plays an integral role in surgical and radiology specialties. This study investigated the current teaching and assessment trends on Anatomical variations in various surgical and radiology specialty training curricula in Canada and Australia. A survey was sent to 122 Program Directors and Chairs of specialty committees in Canada and Directors of Training/Education in Australia of selected surgical and radiology specialties. A total of 80.7% of respondents report that their training curricula include Anatomical variations. The highest rated classes of variations included in the curriculum are arterial (76%), venous (68%), followed by organs (64%). All trainees learn about Anatomical variations from surgeons and radiologists (100%) and via suggested textbooks of the specialty (87.1%). A total of 54.8% report that specialty training curricula do not suggest specific anatomical variation classifications for the trainees to learn, and 16.1% are uncertain if the colleges provide such kind of instruction. Trainees typically communicated findings of variations in case presentations and clinic's meetings. About 32.3% of respondents report that Anatomical variations are not assessed in their training curriculum. About 39.3% of experienced clinicians in the study report they encounter variations on a monthly basis and 25 and 21.4% on a weekly and daily basis, respectively. Surgical and radiology colleges need to investigate for hidden curriculum in their specialty training programs to ensure there are no gaps in knowledge and training related to Anatomical variations. Most educational leaders surveyed believe more teaching on Anatomical variations in the first 4 years of training would benefit resident doctors. Clin. Anat. 28:717–724, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relationship between pharyngitis and peri‐odontoid pannus: A new etiology for someChiariImalformations?
Authors: Tubbs R. Shane , Griessenauer Christoph J. , Hendrix Philipp , Oakes Peter , Loukas Marios , Chern Joshua J. , Rozzelle Curtis J. , Oakes W. Jerry
Published: May 2015

The pathophysiology underlying Chiari I malformations (CIMs) provides room for debate with several theories attempting to address this issue. We retrospectively reviewed many of our past patients with pediatric CIMs (specifically, those with peri‐odontoid pannus), and present a hypothesis for the development of the malformation in some of said patients. Our experience with the pediatric CIM has shown that almost 1 in 20 patients who present with symptoms is found to have a peri‐odontoid pannus. These masses ranged in size from 4 to 11 mm in diameter. Forty percent had a history of clinically significant pharyngitis or pharyngeal abscess. Pannus formation around the dens (odontoid) resulted in ventral compression of the craniocervical junction in each of these patients. Highlighting the hypermobility that causes such lesions, following fusion, the pannus and symptoms in several patients were diminished. Impairment of normal cerebrospinal fluid circulation out of the fourth ventricle and across the craniocervical junction appears to be a plausible endpoint in this discussion and a suitable explanation for some patients with CIM. Still, the mechanisms by which cerebrospinal fluid circulation is compromised may be variable and are not well understood. This is the first study dedicated to the evaluation of pannus formation in the CIM population. We hypothesize that pharyngeal inflammatory conditions contribute to the formation and progression of hindbrain herniation in a small subset of patients with CIMs. Clin. Anat. 28:602–607, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neuropathies after surgery: Anatomical considerations of pathologic mechanisms
Authors: Johnson Rebecca L. , Warner Mary E. , Staff Nathan P. , Warner Mark A.
Published: May 2015

Positioning‐related injuries caused during surgery under anesthesia are most likely multifactorial. Pathologic mechanical forces alone (overstretching and/or ischemia from direct compression) may not fully explain postsurgical neuropathy with recent evidence implicating patient‐specific factors or perioperative inflammatory responses spatially and even temporally divorced from the anatomical region of injury. The aim of this introductory article is to provide an overview of anatomic considerations of these mechanical forces on soft and nervous tissues along with factors that may compound compression or stretch injury. Three subsequent articles will address specific positioning‐related anatomic considerations of the (1) upper extremities, (2) lower extremities, and (3) central nervous system and soft tissues. Clin. Anat. 28:678–682, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Active Sites of a Rod‐Shaped Hollandite DeNOx Catalyst
Authors: Hu Pingping , Schuster Manfred Erwin , Huang Zhiwei , Xu Fei , Jin Shifeng , Chen Yaxin , Hua Weiming , Su Dang Sheng , Tang Xingfu
Published: May 2015

The identification of catalytically active sites (CASs) in heterogeneous catalysis is of vital importance to design and develop improved catalysts, but remains a great challenge. The CASs have been identified in the low‐temperature selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides by ammonia (SCR) over a hollandite manganese oxide (HMO) catalyst with a rod‐shaped morphology and one‐dimensional tunnels. Electron microscopy and synchrotron X‐ray diffraction determine the surface and crystal structures of the one‐dimensional HMO rods closed by {100} side facets and {001} top facets. A combination of X‐ray absorption spectra, molecular probes with potassium and nitric oxide, and catalytic tests reveals that the CASs are located on the {100} side facets of the HMO rods rather than on the top facets or in the tunnels, and hence semi‐tunnel structural motifs on the {100} facets are evidenced to be the CASs of the SCR reaction. This work paves the way to further investigate the intrinsic mechanisms of SCR reactions.
Chirality Transfer and Modulation in LB Films Derived From the Diacetylene/Melamine Hydrogen‐Bonded Complex
Authors: Zhu Yu , Xu Yangyang , Zou Gang , Zhang Qijin
Published: May 2015

Introduction of hydrogen‐bonding interaction into π‐conjugated systems is a promising strategy, since the highly selective and directional hydrogen‐bonding can increase the binding strength, provide enhanced stability to the assemblies, and position the π‐conjugated molecules in a desired arrangement. The helical packing of the rigid melamine cores seems to play a dominating role in the subsequent formation of the peripheral helical PDA backbone. The polymerized Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films exhibited reversible colorimetric and chiroptical changes during repeated heating–cooling cycles, which should be ascribed to the strong hydrogen‐bonding interaction between the carboxylic acid and the melamine core. Further, the closely helical packing of the melamine cores could be destroyed upon exposure to HCl or NH3 gas, whereas the peripheral helical polyaniline and polydiacetylene (PDA) backbone exhibited excellent stability. Although similar absorption changes could be observed for the films upon exposure to HCl or NH3 gas, their distinct circular dichroism (CD) responses enabled us to distinguish the above two stimuli. Chirality 27:492‐499, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel Furin Inhibitors with Potent Anti‐infectious Activity
Authors: Hardes Kornelia , Becker Gero L. , Lu Yinghui , Dahms Sven O. , Köhler Susanne , Beyer Wolfgang , Sandvig Kirsten , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Lindberg Iris , Walz Lisa , von Messling Veronika , Than Manuel E. , Garten Wolfgang , Steinmetzer Torsten
Published: May 2015

New peptidomimetic furin inhibitors with unnatural amino acid residues in the P3 position were synthesized. The most potent compound 4‐guanidinomethyl‐phenylacteyl‐Arg‐Tle‐Arg‐4‐amidinobenzylamide (MI‐1148) inhibits furin with a Ki value of 5.5 pM. The derivatives also strongly inhibit PC1/3, whereas PC2 is less affected. Selected inhibitors were tested in cell culture for antibacterial and antiviral activity against infectious agents known to be dependent on furin activity. A significant protective effect against anthrax and diphtheria toxin was observed in the presence of the furin inhibitors. Furthermore, the spread of the highly pathogenic H5N1 and H7N1 avian influenza viruses and propagation of canine distemper virus was strongly inhibited. Inhibitor MI‐1148 was crystallized in complex with human furin. Its N‐terminal guanidinomethyl group in the para position of the P5 phenyl ring occupies the same position as that found previously for a structurally related inhibitor containing this substitution in the meta position, thereby maintaining all of the important P5 interactions. Our results confirm that the inhibition of furin is a promising strategy for a short‐term treatment of acute infectious diseases.
Delta‐like 4‐mediated Notch signaling is required for early T‐cell development in a three‐dimensional thymic structure
Authors: Hirano Ken‐ichi , Negishi Naoko , Yazawa Masaki , Yagita Hideo , Habu Sonoko , Hozumi Katsuto
Published: May 2015

Delta‐like 4 (Dll4)‐mediated Notch signaling is critical for specifying T‐cell fate, but how Dll4‐mediated Notch signaling actually contributes to T‐cell development in the thymus remains unclear. To explore this mechanism in the thymic three‐dimensional structure, we performed fetal thymus organ culture using Dll4‐deficient mice. DN1a/b+DN2mt cells, which had not yet committed to either the αβ T or γδ T/NK cell lineage, did not differentiate into the αβ T‐cell lineage in Dll4‐deficient thymus despite the lack of cell fate conversion into other lineages. However, DN3 cells efficiently differentiated into a later developmental stage of αβ T cells, the double‐positive (DP) stage, although the proliferation was significantly impaired during the differentiation process. These findings suggest that the requirement for Notch signaling differs between the earliest and pre‐TCR‐bearing precursors and that continued Notch signaling is required for proper differentiation with active proliferation of αβ T lineage cells. Furthermore, we showed that Notch signaling increased the c‐Myc expression in DN3 cells in the thymus and that its overexpression rescued the proliferation and differentiation of DN3 cells in the Dll4‐null thymus. Therefore, c‐Myc plays a central role in the transition from stage DN3 to DP as a downstream target of Notch signaling.
Simultaneous electricity production and removal of organics from synthetic wastewater in a continuous membrane less MFC: Effects of process parameters
Authors: Shankar Ravi , Mondal Prasenjit , Singh Ranvir , Chand Shri
Published: May 2015

In this study, a membrane less microbial fuel cell with internal resistance of 4.9 MΩ was used in continuous mode for simultaneous generation of electricity and removal of organics from synthetic wastewater having equimolar concentration of glucose and glutamic acid. Activated sludge of a municipal wastewater treatment plant (MW‐AS) was used as the source of mixed microbial strains and graphite sheets were used as electrodes. The effects of process variables such as empty bed contact time, electrode surface area, inter electrode distance, mediator concentration etc., on the voltage generation and color and COD removal have been studied. Under optimum conditions with initial COD value of 500 mg/L, the maximum voltage and current have been found to be ∼ 200 mV and ∼ 2.5 mA, respectively, with the COD removal of 90%. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 1404–1413, 2015
Day Hospital Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa: A 12‐Month Follow‐up Study
Authors: Abbate‐Daga Giovanni , Marzola Enrica , De‐Bacco Carlotta , Buzzichelli Sara , Brustolin Annalisa , Campisi Stefania , Amianto Federico , Migliaretti Giuseppe , Fassino Secondo
Published: May 2015

Day hospitals (DHs) represent a treatment option for anorexia nervosa (AN), a mental disorder that is difficult to treat and has no evidence‐based treatments available. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of a DH treatment that was specifically focused on the emotions of severe AN patients. Body mass index and eating psychopathology were the primary outcome measures.

Fifty‐six adult patients with AN were assessed upon admission, at the end of treatment (EOT) and at a 12‐month follow‐up evaluation (T18) using Eating Disorders Inventory‐2, Beck Depression Inventory, Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety and Brief Social Phobia Scale. All participants received a multidisciplinary treatment programme that focused on psychodynamic psychotherapy.

Seventy‐eight per cent of participants reported positive outcomes at EOT and 68% at T18. Moreover, 82.1% and 65.4% of long‐standing patients showed positive outcomes at EOT and T18, respectively. All measures of psychopathology were significantly improved at EOT and were maintained at follow‐up.

Our DH was effective at treating severe AN patients; however, further investigations of the processes of change are warranted. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
CO2 mineralization in volcanogenic sandstones: geochemical characterization of the Etchegoin formation, San Joaquin Basin
Authors: Zhang Shuo , DePaolo Donald J. , Voltolini Marco , Kneafsey Tim
Published: May 2015

Volcanogenic sandstones are typically rich in volcanic rock fragments that can provide reactive minerals for CO2 mineralization in a scenario of CO2 sequestration. To quantitatively evaluate the extent and time scale of CO2 mineralization in potential reservoir formations, we characterized example high‐porosity volcanic sand from the San Joaquin Valley of southern Central California. Samples were collected from the volcanic‐rich members of the Etchegoin Formation in the San Joaquin Basin near Coalinga, California. Thin sections made from these samples were examined under petrographic microscope to identify mineral compositions, and then scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to gather quantitative information on mineral abundances, distribution, and reactive surface areas. Porosity and permeability were also measured using core plugs made from outcrop samples. Results show that the Etchegoin volcanic sandstone has a high percentage (10–15%) of reactive minerals (pyroxenes, Fe‐Ti spinel and clays), and high reactive surface areas at about 1 m2/kg. Reactive transport modeling is conducted and shows that these reactive minerals could mineralize 92% of injected and capillary‐trapped CO2 within 1000 years of injection. Possible effects of heterogeneity on CO2 injection and mineralization are also studied using the reactive transport code TOUGHREACT. Vertical heterogeneity of mineralogy and hydrology increases both CO2 injectivity and mineralization. Available volcanogenic sandstones worldwide like the Etchegoin sandstone are summarized from the literature, with formations from the western USA that have CO2 sequestration potential emphasized.© 2015 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Radial glia and neural progenitors in the adult zebrafish central nervous system
Authors: Than‐Trong Emmanuel , Bally‐Cuif Laure
Published: May 2015

The adult central nervous system (CNS) of the zebrafish, owing to its enrichment in constitutive neurogenic niches, is becoming an increasingly used model to address fundamental questions pertaining to adult neural stem cell (NSC) biology, adult neurogenesis and neuronal repair. Studies conducted in several CNS territories (notably the telencephalon, retina, midbrain, cerebellum and spinal cord) highlighted the presence, in these niches, of progenitor cells displaying NSC‐like characters. While pointing to radial glial cells (RG) as major long‐lasting, constitutively active and/or activatable progenitors in most domains, these studies also revealed a high heterogeneity in the progenitor subtypes used at the top of neurogenic hierarchies, including the persistence of neuroepithelial (NE) progenitors in some areas. Likewise, dissecting the molecular pathways underlying RG maintenance and recruitment under physiological conditions and upon repair in the zebrafish model revealed shared processes but also specific cascades triggering or sustaining reparative NSC recruitment. Together, the zebrafish adult brain reveals an extensive complexity of adult NSC niches, properties and control pathways, which extends existing understanding of adult NSC biology and gives access to novel mechanisms of efficient NSC maintenance and recruitment in an adult vertebrate brain. GLIA 2015;63:1406–1428
Spatiotemporal variation and driving forces of reference evapotranspiration in Jing River Basin, northwest China
Authors: Xu Lihong , Shi Zhongjie , Wang Yanghui , Zhang Shulan , Chu Xinzheng , Yu Pengtao , Xiong Wei , Zuo Haijun , Wang Yunni
Published: May 2015

Evapotranspiration is an important component of the hydrological cycle, which integrates atmospheric demands and surface conditions. Research on spatial and temporal variations of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) enables understanding of climate change and its effects on hydrological processes and water resources. In this study, ETo was estimated by the FAO‐56 Penman–Monteith method in the Jing River Basin in China, based on daily data from 37 meteorological stations from 1960 to 2005. ETo trends were detected by the Mann–Kendall test in annual, seasonal, and monthly timescales. Sensitivity coefficients were used to examine the contribution of important meteorological variables to ETo. The influence of agricultural activities, especially irrigation on ETo was also analyzed. We found that ETo showed a decreasing trend in most of the basin in all seasons, except for autumn, which showed an increasing trend. Mean maximum temperature was generally the most sensitive parameter for ETo, followed by relative humidity, solar radiation, mean minimum temperature, and wind speed. Wind speed was the most dominant factor for the declining trend in ETo. The more significant decrease in ETo for agricultural and irrigation stations was mainly because of the more significant decrease in wind speed and sunshine hours, a mitigation in climate warming, and more significant increase in relative humidity compared with natural stations and non‐irrigation stations. Changes in ETo and the sensitivity coefficient of meteorological variables in relation to ETo were also affected by topography. Better understanding of ETo response to climate change will enable efficient use of agricultural production and water resources, which could improve the ecological environment in Jing River Basin. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Short‐term natural history of high‐risk human papillomavirus infection in mid‐adult women sampled monthly
Authors: Fu Tsung‐chieh (Jane) , Fu Xi Long , Hulbert Ayaka , Hughes James P. , Feng Qinghua , Schwartz Stephen M. , Hawes Stephen E. , Koutsky Laura A. , Winer Rachel L.
Published: May 2015

Characterizing short‐term HPV detection patterns and viral load may inform HPV natural history in mid‐adult women. From 2011–2012, we recruited women aged 30–50 years. Women submitted monthly self‐collected vaginal samples for high‐risk HPV DNA testing for 6 months. Positive samples were tested for type‐specific HPV DNA load by real‐time PCR. HPV type‐adjusted linear and Poisson regression assessed factors associated with (i) viral load at initial HPV detection and (ii) repeat type‐specific HPV detection. One‐hundred thirty‐nine women (36% of 387 women with ≥4 samples) contributed 243 type‐specific HR HPV infections during the study; 54% of infections were prevalent and 46% were incident. Incident (vs. prevalent) detection and past pregnancy were associated with lower viral load, whereas current smoking was associated with higher viral load. In multivariate analysis, current smoking was associated with a 40% (95% CI: 5–87%) increase in the proportion of samples that were repeatedly positive for the same HPV type, whereas incident (vs. prevalent) detection status and past pregnancy were each associated with a reduction in the proportion of samples repeatedly positive (55%, 95% CI: 38–67% and 26%, 95% CI: 10–39%, respectively). In a separate multivariate model, each log10 increase in viral load was associated with a 10% (95% CI: 4–16%) increase in the proportion of samples repeatedly positive. Factors associated with repeat HPV detection were similar to those observed in longer‐term studies, suggesting that short‐term repeat detection may relate to long‐term persistence. The negative associations between incident HPV detection and both viral load and repeat detection suggest that reactivation or intermittent persistence was more common than new acquisition.
Apoptotic variants as predictors of risk of oropharyngeal cancer recurrence after definitive radiotherapy
Authors: Zhang Fenghua , Sturgis Erich M. , Sun Yan , Zhang Yang , Wei Qingyi , Zhang Caiyun , Zheng Hongliang , Li Guojun
Published: May 2015

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region of FAS and FASLG may alter their transcriptional activity. Thus, we determined the associations between four FAS and FASLG promoter variants (FAS1377G>A, rs2234767; 670A>G, rs1800682; FASLG844T>C, rs763110 and 124A>G, rs5030772) and the risk of recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (SCCOP). We evaluated the associations between FAS and FASLG genetic variants and the risk of recurrence in a cohort of 1,008 patients. The log‐rank test and multivariate Cox models were used to evaluate the associations. Compared with patients with common homozygous genotypes of FAS670 and FASLG844 polymorphisms, patients with variant genotypes had lower disease‐free survival rates (log‐rank p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001, respectively) and an approximately threefold higher risk of SCCOP recurrence (HR, 3.2;95% CI, 2.2–4.6; and HR, 3.1; 95% CI, 2.2–4.4, respectively) after multivariate adjustment. Furthermore, among patients with HPV16‐positive tumors, those with variant genotypes of these two polymorphisms had lower disease‐free survival rates (log‐rank, p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0001, respectively) and a higher recurrence risk than did patients with common homozygous genotypes (HR, 12.9; 95% CI, 3.8–43.6; and HR, 8.1; 95% CI, 3.6–18.6, respectively), whereas no significant associations were found for FAS1377 and FASLG124 polymorphisms. Our findings suggest that FAS670 and FASLG844 polymorphisms modulate the risk of recurrence of SCCOP, particularly in patients with HPV16‐positive tumors. Larger studies are needed to validate these results.
Differential Cellular Effects of Plk1 Inhibitors Targeting the ATP‐binding Domain or Polo‐box Domain
Authors: Shin Sol‐Bi , Woo Sang‐Uk , Yim Hyungshin
Published: May 2015

The expression of polo‐like kinase 1 (Plk1) correlates with malignancy and is thus recognized as a target for cancer therapy. In addition to the development of ATP‐competitive Plk1 inhibitors, the polo‐box domain (PBD), a unique functional domain of PLKs, is being targeted to develop Plk1‐specific inhibitors. However, the action mechanisms of these two classes of Plk1 inhibitors have not been thoroughly evaluated. Here, we evaluate the differences in cellular effects of ATP‐binding domain inhibitors (BI 2536, GSK 461364) and PBD inhibitors (poloxin, thymoquinone) to determine their mechanisms of Plk1 inhibition. Our data show that BI 2536 and GSK461364 increased the population of cells in the G2/M phase compared with controls, while treatment with poloxin and thymoquinone increased cell population in the S phase as well as in G2/M, in a p53‐independent manner. The population of cells staining positively for p‐Histone H3 and MPM2, mitotic index, was increased by treatment with BI 2536 or GSK461364, but not by treatment with poloxin or thymoquinone. Furthermore, treatment with BI 2536 or GSK461364 resulted in activation of the BubR1 spindle checkpoint kinase, suggesting that treatment with ATP‐binding domain inhibitors induces metaphase arrest. However, the administration of poloxin and thymoquinone resulted in an increase in p21WAF1 and S arrest, indicating that PBD inhibitors also affected interphase before mitotic entry. Taken together, these data suggest that the PDB of Plk1 plays a role in S phase progression through interaction with other proteins, while its ATP‐binding domain is important for regulating mitotic progression mediated by its catalytic activity involving consumption of ATP. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 3057–3067, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Esophageal variceal bleeding in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Pant Chaitanya , Desai Madhav , Deshpande Abhishek , Taylor Ryan , Olyaee Mojtaba , Gilroy Richard
Published: May 2015

Esophageal variceal bleeding (EVB) is a frequent complication in cirrhotic patients resulting in considerable mortality and morbidity. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence, impact, and trends of EVB in hospitalized cirrhotic patients on a nationwide level in the United States. We interrogated data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2002 to 2012. Utilizing International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes, we analyzed hospital discharges for cirrhosis and related EVB in adult patients. EVB in cirrhotic patients was independently associated with overall worse outcomes with respect to in‐hospital mortality (10% vs 5%; P < 0.01) and hospital charges (median $41,000 vs $26,000; P < 0.01). In the period from 2002 to 2012, the number of cirrhosis‐related hospitalizations increased from 337,956 to 570,220 (P < 0.01). Concurrently, the incidence of EVB in hospitalized cirrhotic patients declined from 8.60% to 5.78%, with an overall decreased trend (P < 0.01). The decline in the rate of EVB in hospitalized cirrhotic patients from 2002 to 2012 likely reflects the effectiveness of primary and secondary prophylaxis. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:453–456. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Basic MR relaxation mechanisms and contrast agent design
Authors: De León‐Rodríguez Luis M. , Martins André F. , Pinho Marco C. , Rofsky Neil M. , Sherry A. Dean
Published: May 2015

The diagnostic capabilities of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have undergone continuous and substantial evolution by virtue of hardware and software innovations and the development and implementation of exogenous contrast media. Thirty years since the first MRI contrast agent was approved for clinical use, a reliance on MR contrast media persists, largely to improve image quality with higher contrast resolution and to provide additional functional characterization of normal and abnormal tissues. Further development of MR contrast media is an important component in the quest for continued augmentation of diagnostic capabilities. In this review we detail the many important considerations when pursuing the design and use of MR contrast media. We offer a perspective on the importance of chemical stability, particularly kinetic stability, and how this influences one's thinking about the safety of metal–ligand‐based contrast agents. We discuss the mechanisms involved in MR relaxation in the context of probe design strategies. A brief description of currently available contrast agents is accompanied by an in‐depth discussion that highlights promising MRI contrast agents in the development of future clinical and research applications. Our intention is to give a diverse audience an improved understanding of the factors involved in developing new types of safe and highly efficient MR contrast agents and, at the same time, provide an appreciation of the insights into physiology and disease that newer types of responsive agents can provide. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:545–565.
Effect of ultrasound treatment on the wet heating Maillard reaction between mung bean [Vigna radiate (L.)] protein isolates and glucose and on structural and physico‐chemical properties of conjugates
Authors: Wang Zhongjiang , Han Feifei , Sui Xiaonan , Qi Baokun , Yang Yong , Zhang Hui , Wang Rui , Li Yang , Jiang Lianzhou
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of ultrasound treatment on the wet heating Maillard reaction between mung bean protein isolates (MBPIs) and glucose, and on structural and physico‐chemical properties of the conjugates.

RESULTS

The degree of glycosylation of MBPI–glucose conjugates treated by ultrasound treatment and wet heating (MBPI‐GUH) was higher than that of MBPI–glucose conjugates only treated by wet heating (MBPI‐GH). Solubility, emulsification activity, emulsification stability and surface hydrophobicity of MBPI‐GUH were higher than that of MBPI‐GH. Grafted MBPIs had a lower content of α‐helix and unordered coil, but a higher content of β‐sheet and β‐turn structure than MBPIs. No significant structural changes were observed in β‐turn and random coil structure of MBPI‐GUH, while α‐helix content increased with ultrasonic time, and decreased at 300 W ultrasonic power with the increase of β‐sheet. MBPI‐GUH had a less compact tertiary structure compared to MBPI‐GH and MBPI. Grafting MBPIs with glucose formed conjugates of higher molecular weight, while no significant changes were observed in electrophoresis profiles of MBPI‐GUH.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound‐assisted wet heating Maillard reaction between MBPIs and glucose could be a promising way to improve functional properties of MBPIs. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Kinetic studies of the reaction between pesticides and hydroxyl radical generated by laser flash photolysis
Authors: Gozzi Fábio , Oliveira Silvio C , Dantas Renato F , Silva Volnir O , Quina Frank H , Machulek Amilcar
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Due to contamination of the environment by pesticides and their mishandling, there is the need for treatment of contaminated sites and correct disposal of materials containing them. Thus, studies with advanced oxidation processes are expanding and can determine the rate constant of the hydroxyl radical with organic compounds of great importance in environmental contamination. In this context, the use of laser flash photolysis has been shown to be viable for the determination of these constants.

RESULTS

The reaction rate constants of different pesticides with HO• in degassed acetonitrile have been determined. They were 1.6 × 109 M−1 s−1, 0.6 × 109 M−1 s−1, 1.2 × 109 M−1 s−1, 2.4 × 109 M−1 s−1 and 2.2 × 109 M−1 s−1 for the pesticides carbaryl, propoxur, fenoxycarb, ethoxysulfuron and chlorimuron‐ethyl, respectively. These values are about an order of magnitude smaller than the diffusion controlled rate and correlate with the relative rates of disappearance of the pesticides in the photo‐Fenton reaction in water.

CONCLUSION

The correlation of the relative rate constants determined by laser flash photolysis with the relative rates of photo‐Fenton degradation of the pesticides is compelling evidence for the participation of the hydroxyl radical in the degradation of these pesticides in the latter system. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry