bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the Cell Permeability and Metabolic Stability of Peptidyl Drugs by Reversible Bicyclization
Authors: Qian Ziqing , Rhodes Curran A. , McCroskey Lucas C. , Wen Jin , Appiah‐Kubi George , Wang David J. , Guttridge Denis C. , Pei Dehua
Published: December 2016

Therapeutic applications of peptides are currently limited by their proteolytic instability and impermeability to the cell membrane. A general, reversible bicyclization strategy is now reported to increase both the proteolytic stability and cell permeability of peptidyl drugs. A peptide drug is fused with a short cell‐penetrating motif and converted into a conformationally constrained bicyclic structure through the formation of a pair of disulfide bonds. The resulting bicyclic peptide has greatly enhanced proteolytic stability as well as cell‐permeability. Once inside the cell, the disulfide bonds are reduced to produce a linear, biologically active peptide. This strategy was applied to generate a cell‐permeable bicyclic peptidyl inhibitor against the NEMO‐IKK interaction.
Cuboid Vesicles Formed by Frame‐Guided Assembly on DNA Origami Scaffolds
Authors: Dong Yuanchen , Yang Yuhe Renee , Zhang Yiyang , Wang Dianming , Wei Xixi , Banerjee Saswata , Liu Yan , Yang Zhongqiang , Yan Hao , Liu Dongsheng
Published: December 2016

We describe the use of a frame‐guided assembly (FGA) strategy to construct cuboid and dumbbell‐shaped hetero‐vesicles on DNA origami nanostructure scaffolds. These are achieved by varying the design of the DNA origami scaffolds that direct the distribution of the leading hydrophobic groups (LHG). By careful selection of LHGs, different types of amphiphiles (both polymer and small‐molecule surfactants) were guided to form hetero‐vesicles, demonstrating the versatility of the FGA strategy and its potential to construct asymmetric and dynamic hetero‐vesicle assemblies with complex DNA nano‐scaffolds.
Biodegradability of and interaction in the packaging of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate)–vermiculite bionanocomposites
Authors: da Costa Reis Dilson Cristino , de Oliveira Thainá Araújo , de Carvalho Laura Hecker , Soares Alves Tatianny , Barbosa Renata
Published: December 2016

The aim of this study was to develop poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) bionanocomposites with natural vermiculite (VMT) and modified vermiculite (VMTO), by the melt intercalation technique and to evaluate the thermal behavior, biodegradation, and food–packaging interactions through X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Through XRD, we observed the structure of a microcomposite for the systems with natural clay and possibly an exfoliated structure for the systems with VMTO. We observed from the thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry results that the natural systems showed a small increase in the thermal stability, whereas the organoclay systems had a lower thermal stability. A high biodegradability in the pure polymer and the natural bionanocomposites was evidenced by the Sturm test through the carbon dioxide production and high weight loss of the material. We observed that there was no significant migration of PHBV from the bionanocomposites to the simulants. Under these circumstances, the bionanocomposites with VMT presented better thermal stability and a high biodegradability and were possibly inert when in contact with food. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44700.
Development of water‐based polymeric dye and its application as a colorant for waterborne polyurethane
Authors: Shang Songmin , Chiu Ka‐lok , Jiang Shouxiang
Published: December 2016

In this project, an eco‐friendly aqueous synthesis method of water‐based polymeric dye (WPD) was developed and its potential as a colorant for waterborne polyurethane (WPU) was tested. The WPD was produced by reacting polyethylenimine with commercial reactive dye in the warm alkaline solution. The colored polyurethane membrane was then produced via solution blending of WPD and WPU, followed by air‐drying. The results showed that WPD with a wide variety of colors can be easily synthesized by selecting different precursory reactive dyes and can be easily blended with WPU via moderate stirring. The colored PU membranes have good transparency and the logo under them can be clearly observed. Compared with the pure polyurethane membrane, the absorbance of colored polyurethane membrane at the wavelength of maximum absorption increases at least 20.2% even if the content of WPD within the colored polyurethane membrane is as low as 0.16%, implying that our WPD has excellent color strength. Finally, the colored polyurethane membranes have very high colorfastness to water and can be stored in deionized water for 2 weeks without dissolution of WPD. As a result, our developed WPD is a promising and cost‐effective colorant for WPU. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44710.
Chemical Composition and Biological Prospects of Essential Oils and Extracts of Aphyllocladus spartioides Growing in Northwest Argentina
Authors: Celaya Liliana , Viturro Carmen , Silva Luís R.
Published: December 2016

Aphyllocladus spartioides Wedd. is a native and aromatic herb used in traditional medicine, however it is still poorly investigated. In this work, the volatile profile of A. spartioides growing in Hornillos‐Northwest Argentina was determined by GC/MS/FID and the phenolic compounds of hydroethanolic and decoction extracts were analyzed by HPLC‐DAD. The antibacterial potential, antioxidant activity and α‐glucosidase inhibition activity were checked by in vitro assays. The volatile profile allowed the identification of 68 compounds, being α‐pinene and cadinene the main ones. Eighteen phenolics were identified, isorhamnetin derivatives and different phenolic acid derivatives were found in higher amounts, mainly in the hydroethanolic extract. A concentration‐dependent activity was noticed against DPPH·, , and α‐glucosidase, these activities being reported for the first time. Hydroethanolic extract was most active against DPPH·, ·NO and α‐glucosidase (IC50 = 79, 206 and 181 μg/ml). Decoction extract proved to be better against (IC50 = 20 μg/ml). Regarding the antibacterial activity, hydroethanolic extract was more active compared with decoction and essential oil. MICs of 0.3 – 0.6 mg/ml were obtained against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Micrococcus luteus. Results suggest that the extracts of A. spartioides from Northwest Argentina may be interesting to use as a source of natural antioxidants/antimicrobials for pharmaceutical incorporations or food supplementation.
Cyclophosphamide promotes breast cancer cell migration through CXCR4 and matrix metalloproteinases
Authors: Hung Chao‐Ming , Hsu Yi‐Chiang , Chen Tzu‐Yu , Chang Chi‐Chang , Lee Mon‐Juan
Published: December 2016

Cyclophosphamide is indicated for the treatment of cancerous diseases such as breast cancer and cervical cancer. Recent studies have shown that cyclophosphamide may induce cancer metastasis, but the cause of this unexpected adverse effect is not fully understood. In this study, we investigate the effect of cyclophosphamide on cancer cell migration and its correlation to chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4), a biomarker for cancer metastasis. Two human cancer cell lines with significant difference in endogenous CXCR4 expression, the breast cancer cell line, MDA‐MB‐231, and the melanoma cell line, MDA‐MB‐435S, were treated with various concentrations of cyclophosphamide, followed by the assessment of CXCR4 expression and cell migration. We found that the migration ability of MDA‐MB‐231 cells was enhanced with increasing concentrations of cyclophosphamide, which induced the cell‐surface expression of CXCR4, but had no effect on the overall amount of CXCR4. In MDA‐MB‐435S cells, in which CXCR4 was barely detectable, cyclophosphamide was unable to activate cell‐surface CXCR4, and did not promote cell migration. Studies on the mRNA expression profile of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in MDA‐MB‐231 cells further indicate that MMP9 and MMP13 may be involved in the action of cyclophosphamide. The protein expression of both MMP9 and MMP13 was increased in the presence of cyclophosphamide. Results from this study provide the molecular basis for the possible pathway of cyclophosphamide to induce cancer metastasis.
Medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws caused lethal sepsis in an edentulous patient with multiple systemic factors
Authors: Yamashiro Keisuke , Sato Aki , Okazaki Fumihiko , Nakano Makoto , Sawaki Koichi , Hirata Yasuhisa , Yamachika Eiki , Iida Seiji , Takashiba Shogo
Published: December 2016

Key Clinical Message

Medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is developed even in the patients who are edentulous and treated with short‐term bisphosphonate therapy and oral administration. It sometimes causes lethal sepsis in patients who have multiple health problems such as diabetes, cirrhosis, steroid use for interstitial pneumonia, sepsis, and spinal disk herniation.
Substituent Effects in Molecular Ruthenium Water Oxidation Catalysts Based on Amide Ligands
Authors: Abdel‐Magied Ahmed F. , Arafa Wael A. A. , Laine Tanja M. , Shatskiy Andrey , Kärkäs Markus D. , Åkermark Björn , Johnston Eric V.
Published: December 2016

The production of clean and sustainable energy is considered as one of the most urgent issues for our society. Mastering the oxidation of water to dioxygen is essential for the production of solar fuels. A study of the influence of the substituents on the catalytic activity of a series of mononuclear Ru complexes (2 a–e) based on a tetradentate ligand framework is presented. At neutral pH, using [Ru(bpy)3](PF6)3 (bpy=2,2’‐bipyridine) as the terminal oxidant, a good correlation between the turnover frequency (TOF) and the Hammett σmeta parameters was obtained. Additionally, a general pathway for the deactivation of Ru‐based catalysts 2 a–e during the catalytic oxidation of water through poisoning by carbon monoxide was demonstrated. These results highlight the importance of ligand design for fine‐tuning the catalytic activity of water oxidation catalysts.
Chemoselective Hydrogenation of Nitroarenes Catalyzed by Molybdenum Sulphide Clusters
Authors: Pedrajas Elena , Sorribes Iván , Gushchin Artem L. , Laricheva Yuliya A. , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias , Llusar Rosa
Published: December 2016

Herein, we describe an atom efficient and general protocol for the chemoselective hydrogenation of nitroarenes to anilines catalyzed by well‐defined diimino and diamino cubane‐type Mo3S4 clusters. The novel diimino [Mo3S4Cl3(dnbpy)3]+ ([5]+) (dnbpy=4,4′‐dinonyl‐2,2′‐dipyridyl, L1) trinuclear complex was synthesized in high yields by simple ligand substitution reactions starting from the thiourea (tu) [Mo3S4(tu)8(H2O)]Cl4⋅4 H2O (3) precursor. This strategy has also been successfully adapted for the isolation of the diamino [Mo3S4Cl3(dmen)3](BF4) ([6](BF4)), (dmen=N,N′‐dimethylethylenediamine) salt. Applying these catalysts, high selectivity in the hydrogenation of functionalized nitroarenes has been accomplished. Over thirty anilines bearing synthetically functional groups have been synthesized in 70 to 99 % yield. Notably, the integrity of the cluster core is preserved during catalysis. Based on kinetic studies on the hydrogenation of nitrobenzene and other potential reaction intermediates, the direct reduction to aniline is the preferential route.
A Mycoplasma Genomic DNA Probe using Gated Nanoporous Anodic Alumina
Authors: Pla Luís , Xifré‐Pérez Elisabet , Ribes Àngela , Aznar Elena , Marcos M. Dolores , Marsal Lluís F. , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Sancenón Félix
Published: December 2016

A nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA)‐based sensor system for the detection of Mycoplasma was developed through the implementation of “molecular gates” selective to the presence of this bacterium. The capped support showed a negligible cargo release, while presence of Mycoplasma genomic DNA resulted in the release of rhodamine B fluorescent dye. This sensor system presents a limit of detection of 20 genomic DNA copies⋅μL−1 and was applied to the detection of Mycoplasma bacteria in competitive environments, such as culture cell media.
An integrated population model for bird monitoring in North America
Authors: Ahrestani Farshid S. , Saracco James F. , Sauer John R. , Pardieck Keith L. , Royle J. Andrew
Published: December 2016

Integrated population models (IPMs) provide a unified framework for simultaneously analyzing data sets of different types to estimate vital rates, population size, and dynamics; assess contributions of demographic parameters to population changes; and assess population viability. Strengths of anIPMinclude the ability to estimate latent parameters and improve the precision of parameter estimates. We present a hierarchicalIPMthat combines two broad‐scale avian monitoring data sets: count data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) and capture–recapture data from the Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) program. These data sets are characterized by large numbers of sample sites and observers, factors capable of inducing error in the sampling and observation processes. TheIPMintegrates the data sets by modeling the population abundance as a first‐order autoregressive function of the previous year's population abundance and vital rates.BBScounts were modeled as a log‐linear function of the annual index of population abundance, observation effects (observer identity and first survey year), and overdispersion. Vital rates modeled included adult apparent survival, estimated from a transient Cormack‐Jolly‐Seber model usingMAPSdata, and recruitment (surviving hatched birds from the previous season + dispersing adults) estimated as a latent parameter. An assessment of theIPMdemonstrated it could recover true parameter values from 200 simulated data sets. TheIPMwas applied to data sets (1992–2008) of two bird species, Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) and Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina) in the New England/Mid‐Atlantic coastal Bird Conservation Region of theUnited States. The Gray Catbird population was relatively stable (trend +0.4% per yr), while the Wood Thrush population nearly halved (trend −4.5% per yr) over the 17‐yr study period.IPMestimates of population growth rates, adult survival, and detection and residency probabilities were similar and as precise as estimates from the stand‐aloneBBSandCJSmodels. A benefit of using theIPMwas its ability to estimate the latent recruitment parameter. Annual growth rates for both species correlated more with recruitment than survival, and the relationship for Wood Thrush was stronger than for Gray Catbird. TheIPM's unified modeling framework facilitates integration of these important data sets.
Host specificity of two pollinating seed‐consuming fly species is not related to soil moisture of host plant in the high Himalayas
Authors: Song Bo , Stöcklin Jürg , Gao Yong‐Qian , Peng De‐Li , Sun Hang
Published: December 2016

Studying the drivers of host specificity can contribute to our understanding of the origin and evolution of obligate pollination mutualisms. The preference–performance hypothesis predicts that host plant choice of female insects is related mainly to the performance of their offspring. Soil moisture is thought to be particularly important for the survival of larvae and pupae that inhabit soil. In the high Himalayas, Rheum nobile and R. alexandrae differ in their distribution in terms of soil moisture; that is, R. nobile typically occurs in scree with well‐drained soils, R. alexandrae in wetlands. The two plant species are pollinated by their respective mutualistic seed‐consuming flies, Bradysia sp1. and Bradysia sp2. We investigated whether soil moisture is important for regulating host specificity by comparing pupation and adult emergence of the two fly species using field and laboratory experiments. Laboratory experiments revealed soil moisture did have significant effects on larval and pupal performances in both fly species, but the two fly species had similar optimal soil moisture requirements for pupation and adult emergence. Moreover, a field reciprocal transfer experiment showed that there was no significant difference in adult emergence for both fly species between their native and non‐native habitats. Nevertheless, Bradysia sp1., associated with R. nobile, was more tolerant to drought stress, while Bradysia sp2., associated with R. alexandrae, was more tolerant to flooding stress. These results indicate that soil moisture is unlikely to play a determining role in regulating host specificity of the two fly species. However, their pupation and adult emergence in response to extremely wet or dry soils are habitat‐specific.
Predators modify biogeographic constraints on species distributions in an insect metacommunity
Authors: Grainger Tess Nahanni , Germain Rachel M. , Jones Natalie T. , Gilbert Benjamin
Published: December 2016

Theory describing the positive effects of patch size and connectivity on diversity in fragmented systems has stimulated a large body of empirical work, yet predicting when and how local species interactions mediate these responses remains challenging. We used insects that specialize on milkweed plants as a model metacommunity to investigate how local predation alters the effects of biogeographic constraints on species distributions. Species‐specific dispersal ability and susceptibility to predation were used to predict when patch size and connectivity should shape species distributions, and when these should be modified by local predator densities. We surveyed specialist herbivores and their predators in milkweed patches in two matrix types, a forest and an old field. Predator‐resistant species showed the predicted direct positive effects of patch size and connectivity on occupancy rates. For predator‐susceptible species, predators consistently altered the impact of biogeographic constraints, rather than acting independently. Finally, differences between matrix types in species’ responses and overall occupancy rates indicate a potential role of the inter‐patch environment in mediating the joint effects of predators and spatial drivers. Together, these results highlight the importance of local top‐down pressure in mediating classic biogeographic relationships, and demonstrate how species‐specific responses to local and regional constraints can be used to predict these effects.
Directional, stabilizing, and disruptive trait selection as alternative mechanisms for plant community assembly
Authors: Rolhauser Andrés G. , Pucheta Eduardo
Published: December 2016

How plant functional traits (e.g., seed mass) drive species abundance within communities remains an unsolved question. Borrowing concepts from natural selection theory, we propose that trait–abundance relationships can generally correspond to one of three modes of trait selection: directional (a rectilinear relationship, where species at one end of a trait axis are most abundant), stabilizing (an n‐shaped relationship), and disruptive (a u‐shaped relationship). Stabilizing selection (i.e., the functional convergence of abundant species) would result from positive density‐dependent interactions (e.g., facilitation) or due to generalized trade‐offs in resource acquisition/use, while disruptive selection (i.e., the divergence of abundant species) would result from negative density‐dependent interactions (e.g., competition) or due to environmental heterogeneity. These selection modes can be interpreted as proxies for community‐level trait–fitness functions, which establish the degree to which traits are truly “functional”. We searched for selection modes in a desert annual‐plant community in Argentina (which was divided into winter and summer guilds) to test the hypothesis that the relative importance of disruptive mechanisms (competition, disturbances) decreases with the increase of abiotic stress, a stabilizing agent. Average density was analyzed as a function of eight traits generally linked to resource acquisition and competitive ability (maximum plant height, leaf size, specific leaf area, specific root length), resource retention and stress tolerance (leaf dissection, leaf dry matter content, specific root volume), and regeneration (seed mass) using multiple quadratic‐regression models. Trait selection was stabilizing and/or directional when the environment was harshest (winter) and disruptive and/or directional when conditions were milder (summer). Selection patterns differed between guilds for two important traits: plant height and seed mass. These results suggest that abiotic stress may drive within‐community functional convergence independently of the trait considered, opposing the view that some traits may be inherently convergent while others divergent. Our quadratic model‐based approach provides standardized metrics of both linear and nonlinear selection that may allow simple comparisons among communities subjected to contrasting environmental conditions. These concepts, rooted in natural selection theory, may clarify the functional link between traits and species abundance, and thus help untangle the contributions of deterministic and stochastic processes on community assembly.
Nucleophilic Substitution in the Nitrocobaltocenium Ion
Authors: Wolter‐Steingrube Anne , Cordsen Kristine , Heck Jürgen
Published: December 2016

The first results of nucleophilic substitution reactions performed in one step, starting from the nitrocobaltocenium cation, are presented. The nitrocobaltocenium ion reacts with water, alcohols, or primary amines, forming the corresponding monofunctionalized cobaltocenium cations. The substitution occurs with primary amines without further additives, whereas for water and alcohol as nucleophiles, additional strong bases like sodium hydroxide are required. Here, we discuss the synthesis and the role of sodium hydroxide. The new compounds are spectroscopically characterized by IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy, as well as HRMS. The electrochemical behavior of different cobaltocenium salts is reported. Furthermore, molecular structures were obtained from the PF6 salts of azidocarbonylcobaltocenium, nitrocobaltocenium, and methoxycobaltocenium.
Effect of dietary bioactive compounds and biopolymer encapsulated lipids on metabolism of lipids in high fat diet‐fed mice
Authors: Yu Hao Yang , Lee Seung‐Jae , Lee Seung Yun , Lee Si Kyung , Hur Sun Jin
Published: December 2016

We determined the effects of dietary bioactive components and biopolymer encapsulation on lipids’ metabolism in obese mice. Six random groups of 60 obese mice were fed the following diets for 95 days: Basal diet; cellulose encapsulated lipids; pectin and chitosan encapsulated lipids (EPC); Camellia sinensis and Coix lacryma enhanced diet; C. sinensis and C. lacryma diet plus pectin and chitosan encapsulated lipids; hydroxycitric acid, caffeine, and vitamin C enhanced diet plus pectin and chitosan encapsulated lipids (HCVEPC). The HCVEPC group usually presented lower body and total adipose tissue weight compared to other diet groups. Intestine length was not significantly different among all dietary groups. Serum leptin, triglycerides, and cholesterol were significantly lower in EPC and HCVEPC compared to other groups. However, serum glucose was not significantly different among groups. Our results indicate that bioactive compounds and biopolymers’ encapsulation act synergistically in the reduction of body and adipose tissue weight.

Practical applications: Based on the results described above, it is suggested that bioactive components and biopolymer encapsulation with some natural products has synergistically in the reduction of body and adipose tissue weight on in vivo models. In addition, through this results suggest that can be used information and utilization of lipids metabolism, this research is to highlight the potential of selected natural products as a source of functional Substances. Therefore, lipids encapsulated with dietary biopolymers and bioactive compounds should be considered as a prospective functional food and pharmaceuticals application.

We investigated effects of dietary bioactive components and biopolymer encapsulation on lipids’ metabolism in obese mice. Bio‐active components could enhance the effect of body and adipose tissue weight reduction in obese mice models. Dietary bio‐active compounds together with biopolymer encapsulated lipids showed a great reduction in serum triglycerides and cholesterol.
Emergence of Unactivated Olefins for the Synthesis of Olefinated Arenes
Authors: Deb Arghya , Maiti Debabrata
Published: December 2016

Mizoroki–Heck olefination is one of the most exquisite methods for making carbon–carbon bonds. Numerous methods have been reported for olefination with electronically biased olefins such as acrylates and styrenes. In the absence of suitable bias, olefination with unactivated olefins suffers from regioselectivity issues. Because of these problematic regiochemical outcomes, there are only scattered examples of olefination with unactivated olefins. Both linear‐selective and branched‐selective protocols , based on control over the selectivity of olefin insertion and β‐hydride elimination, have been reported. In this microreview, different branched‐selective and linear‐selective olefination protocols with unactivated olefins are discussed, starting from the invention of Heck olefination. Throughout this microreview, different aspects associated with olefination protocols – such as the factors underlying selectivity, functional group tolerance and, more specifically, the use of a variety of unactivated olefins – are discussed.
The chemical exposure toxicity space (CETS) model: Displaying exposure time, aqueous and organic concentration, activity, and onset of toxicity
Authors: Mackay Donald , Celsie Alena K.D. , Parnis J. Mark , McCarty Lynn S. , Arnot Jon A. , Powell David E.
Published: December 2016

A 1-compartment toxicokinetic model is used to characterize the chemical exposure toxicity space (CETS), providing a novel graphic tool that can aid in the design of aquatic toxicity tests for fish and for interpreting their results. The graph depicts the solution to the differential equation describing the uptake kinetics of a chemical by a modeled fish under conventional bioassay conditions. The model relates the exposure concentration in the water to a dimensionless time and the onset of toxicity as determined by an estimated or assumed critical body residue or incipient lethal aqueous concentration. These concentration graphs are specific to each chemical and exposure and organism parameters and clearly demonstrate differences in toxicity between chemicals and how factors such as hydrophobicity influence the toxic endpoint. The CETS plots can also be used to assess bioconcentration test conditions to ensure that concentrations are well below toxic levels. Illustrative applications are presented using a recent set of high-quality toxicity data. Conversion of concentrations to chemical activities in the plots enables results for different baseline toxicants to be superimposed. For chemicals that have different modes of toxic action, the increased toxicity then becomes apparent. Implications for design and interpretation of aquatic toxicity tests are discussed. The model, and pictorial visualization of the time-course of aquatic toxicity tests, may contribute to improvements in test design, implementation, and interpretation, and to reduced animal usage. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:1389–1396. © 2016 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
THSD7A expression in human cancer
Authors: Stahl Phillip R. , Hoxha Elion , Wiech Thorsten , Schröder Cornelia , Simon Ronald , Stahl Rolf A. K.
Published: December 2016

We recently described a case of a Thrombospondin Type‐1 Domain containing 7A (THSD7A) associated membranous nephropathy in a female patient who was synchronously suffering from a THSD7A‐positive malignancy. We here investigated the role of THSD7A as a new potential tumor antigen by evaluating over 20 000 tissue spots in more than 70 different tumor entities by immunohistochemistry using tissue microarrays. THSD7A expression was highly variable in different neoplasias with differing staining patterns. Both gain and loss of THSD7A expression compared to expression status in non‐tumor tissue were linked to tumor‐specific markers in the different tumor entities and were of prognostic value. The potential role of THSD7A in tumor development and therapy needs further investigation.
The phenomenon of released‐activity. Reply on comment on Don et al.: Dose‐dependent antiviral activity of released‐active form of antibodies to interferon‐gamma against influenza A/California/07/09(H1N1) in murine model
Authors: Don Еlena S. , Emelyanova Alexandra G. , Yakovleva Natalia N. , Petrova Nataliia V. , Nikiforova Marina V. , Gorbunov Evgeniy A. , Tarasov Sergey А. , Morozov Sergey G. , Epstein Оleg I.
Published: December 2016

This text is aimed to provide the readers with detailed information about phenomenon of released‐activity and reply on the specific risen questions.
Reduction of intracerebral hemorrhage by rivaroxaban after tPA thrombolysis is associated with downregulation of PAR‐1 and PAR‐2
Authors: Morihara Ryuta , Yamashita Toru , Kono Syoichiro , Shang Jingwei , Nakano Yumiko , Sato Kota , Hishikawa Nozomi , Ohta Yasuyuki , Heitmeier Stefan , Perzborn Elisabeth , Abe Koji
Published: December 2016

This study aimed to assess the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) after tissue‐type plasminogen activator (tPA) treatment in rivaroxaban compared with warfarin‐pretreated male Wistar rat brain after ischemia in relation to activation profiles of protease‐activated receptor‐1, ‐2, ‐3, and ‐4 (PAR‐1, ‐2, ‐3, and ‐4). After pretreatment with warfarin (0.2 mg/kg/day), low‐dose rivaroxaban (60 mg/kg/day), high‐dose rivaroxaban (120 mg/kg/day), or vehicle for 14 days, transient middle cerebral artery occlusion was induced for 90 min, followed by reperfusion with tPA (10 mg/kg/10 ml). Infarct volume, hemorrhagic volume, immunoglobulin G leakage, and blood parameters were examined. Twenty‐four hours after reperfusion, immunohistochemistry for PARs was performed in brain sections. ICH volume was increased in the warfarin‐pretreated group compared with the rivaroxaban‐treated group. PAR‐1, ‐2, ‐3, and ‐4 were widely expressed in the normal brain, and their levels were increased in the ischemic brain, especially in the peri‐ischemic lesion. Warfarin pretreatment enhanced the expression of PAR‐1 and PAR‐2 in the peri‐ischemic lesion, whereas rivaroxaban pretreatment did not. The present study shows a lower risk of brain hemorrhage in rivaroxaban‐pretreated compared with warfarin‐pretreated rats following tPA administration to the ischemic brain. It is suggested that the relative downregulation of PAR‐1 and PAR‐2 by rivaroxaban compared with warfarin pretreatment might be partly involved in the mechanism of reduced hemorrhagic complications in patients receiving rivaroxaban in clinical trials. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regionalization based envelope curves for PMP estimation by Hershfield method
Authors: Chavan Sagar Rohidas , Srinivas V. V.
Published: December 2016

Cluster analysis based regionalization procedure is proposed to construct a regional envelope curve for use with Hershfield probable maximum precipitation (PMP) estimation method. The procedure suggests (1) delineation of the study area into homogeneous PMP zones (regions) by performing cluster analysis on attributes affecting PMP, and (2) construction of regional envelope curve for each of the zones, and use of the curve(s) as the basis to estimate regional frequency factor (RFF) and PMP for site(s) in the study area. Conventional practice suggests construction of a single envelope curve for entire study area, which could be a political/physiographic area, or a river basin. This practice could yield unreliable RFF and PMP estimates if there is considerable variation in topography, landscape and/or climate in the study area. Effectiveness of the proposed regionalization procedure is demonstrated through a case study on 0.25° resolution rainfall data covering India. Global K‐means (GKM) and global fuzzy c‐means (GFCM) methods are considered for cluster analysis. The number of delineated homogeneous PMP zones is 20 with GKM method and 17 with GFCM method. The PMP estimates obtained for 0.25° resolution grids using the proposed procedure are generally found to be lower than those obtained by considering (1) one/two envelope curves for the entire India determined based on zones considered in previous studies, and (2) envelope curves prepared for four major river basins (Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna and Cauvery) in peninsular India. The PMP estimates are often considered as the basis to arrive at probable maximum flood (PMF) for design and risk assessment of large‐scale hydrological structures in river basins. Hence, PMF estimates could be expected to be lower when based on PMP estimates obtained using the proposed procedure, which is likely to have economic implications in design of the structures.
Successful donation after cardiac death liver transplants with prolonged warm ischemia time using normothermic regional perfusion
Authors: De Carlis Riccardo , Di Sandro Stefano , Lauterio Andrea , Ferla Fabio , Dell'Acqua Antonio , Zanierato Marinella , De Carlis Luciano
Published: December 2016

The role of donation after cardiac death (DCD) in expanding the donor pool is mainly limited by the incidence of primary nonfunction (PNF) and ischemia‐related complications. Even greater concern exists toward uncontrolled DCD, which represents the largest potential pool of DCD donors. We recently started the first Italian series of DCD liver transplantation, using normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) in 6 uncontrolled donors and in 1 controlled case to deal with the legally required no‐touch period of 20 minutes. We examined our first 7 cases for the incidence of PNF, early graft dysfunction, and biliary complications. Acceptance of the graft was based on the trend of serum transaminase and lactate during NRP, the macroscopic appearance, and the liver biopsy. Hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) was associated in selected cases to improve cold storage. Most notably, no cases of PNF were observed. Median posttransplant transaminase peak was 1014 IU/L (range, 393‐3268 IU/L). Patient and graft survival were both 100% after a mean follow‐up of 6.1 months (range, 3‐9 months). No cases of ischemic cholangiopathy occurred during the follow‐up. Only 1 anastomotic stricture completely resolved with endoscopic stenting. In conclusion, DCD liver transplantation is feasible in Italy despite the protracted no‐touch period. The use of NRP and HMP seems to earn good graft function and proves safe in these organs. Liver Transplantation 23 166–173 2017 AASLD
Refinements of nerve repair with connector‐assisted coaptation
Authors: Ducic Ivica , Safa Bauback , DeVinney Erick
Published: December 2016

Peripheral nerve repair can be very rewarding for both surgeon and patient when expected outcomes are achieved. In many cases, however, the results are suboptimal due to number of possible objective and technical reasons. Although we cannot influence patent's comorbidities, the extent or mechanism of the nerve injury, we may help optimize technical details when aiming towards improved outcomes. While the suture coaptation for primary nerve repair or nerve reconstruction with grafting served as the reconstructive standard for many decades, technical imperfections remain threats to reconstructive goals. Tension, fascicular misalignment generated by over tightening suture coaptation, deeply placed sutures, reactive scarring to foreign material at anastomosis site, may all negatively affect axonal regeneration. As the goal of every nerve repair is to have ideally opposed tension free nerve fascicles, protected from the deleterious effects of the wound bed. The utilization of coaptation aids to overcome the challenges of nerve repair has been suggested as an alternative to the classical suture repair. A review of clinical literature was performed to assess the evidence for this technique and the critical success factors to consider when implementing this technique. Twelve clinical studies met criteria, majority suggesting improved outcomes by the utilization of a coaptation aid. Most commonly reported improvements were improved sensory outcomes, reduced tenderness or pain at the coaptation site and reduced operative time. The current clinical evidence data suggests that utilization of a coaptation aid is a technical innovation to help provide better nerve repair and reconstructive functional outcomes.
Sinusoidal CD30+ diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma can masquerade as anaplastic large cell lymphoma in pediatric posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Bhatt Neel S. , Kelly Michael E. , Batdorf Bjorn , Gheorghe Gabriela
Published: December 2016

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a known complication of solid organ transplantation. Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is frequently seen in this setting. However, CD30+ DLBCL with sinusoidal pattern of involvement has not been reported in pediatric PTLD. We are reporting a 9‐year‐old female child presented with diffuse lymphadenopathy postheart transplantation. The pattern of involvement was suggestive of anaplastic large cell lymphoma, but the malignant cells were positive for B‐cell markers and negative for anaplastic lymphoma kinase. The patient was treated aggressively with multiagent chemotherapy and rituximab. Accurate diagnosis in PTLD is paramount in making management decisions.
Interaction Between Atypical Antipsychotics and the Gut Microbiome in a Bipolar Disease Cohort
Authors: Flowers Stephanie A. , Evans Simon J. , Ward Kristen M. , McInnis Melvin G. , Ellingrod Vicki L.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

The atypical antipsychotic (AAP) class is often associated with metabolic disease, but the mechanistic underpinnings of this risk are not understood. Due to reports linking gut bacteria function to metabolic disease, we hypothesize that AAP treatment in adults results in gut dysbiosis potentiating metabolic criteria. This report describes recent findings linking AAP treatment with differences in gut microbiota communities in a human cohort with bipolar disorder (BD).

Methods

In a cross‐sectional design, we obtained 16S ribosomal sequences from 117 BD patients (49 AAP treated, 68 non‐AAP treated). Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) was used to detect significant clustering of microbial communities between groups, and the inverse Simpson Diversity Index was used to calculate alpha diversity. Detection of differentially abundant operational taxonomic units (OTUs) between groups was performed using linear discriminant analysis effect size.

Results

The AAP‐treated cohort was significantly younger and had an increased body mass index compared with non‐AAP‐treated patients. Groups did not differ in other psychotropic medication use with the exception of higher use of benzodiazepines in the AAP cohort. We detected significant separation between microbiota communities of AAP‐treated and nontreated patients (AMOVA; p=0.04). AAP‐treated females showed significant decreased species diversity when compared with non‐AAP‐treated females (p=0.015). Males showed no significant diversity between treatment groups (p=0.8). Differentially abundant OTUs between treatment groups were OTU1, OTU25, and OTU32 that classified to Lachnospiraceae, Akkermansia, and Sutterella, respectively.

Conclusions

These data suggest that AAP treatment is associated with specific representation of gut bacterial families in AAP‐treated patients. In addition, AAP treatment is associated with decreased species richness in female AAP‐treated patients.
β‐Lactam Therapy for Methicillin‐Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia: A Comparative Review of Cefazolin versus Antistaphylococcal Penicillins
Authors: Li Julius , Echevarria Kelly L. , Traugott Kristi A.
Published: December 2016

Methicillin‐susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) bacteremia is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Traditionally, antistaphylococcal penicillins (ASPs) have been considered the agents of choice for the treatment of MSSA bacteremia. Vancomycin has been demonstrated to have poorer outcomes in several studies and is only recommended for patients with severe penicillin allergies. Although cefazolin is considered as an alternative to the ASPs for patients with nonsevere penicillin allergies, cefazolin offers several pharmacologic advantages over ASPs, such as more convenient dosing regimens, and antimicrobial stewardship programs are increasingly using cefazolin as the preferential agent for MSSA infections as part of cost‐saving initiatives. Concerns about susceptibility to hydrolysis by type A β‐lactamases, particularly at high inocula seen in deep‐seated infections such as endocarditis; selective pressures from unnecessary gram‐negative coverage; and lack of comparative clinical data have precluded recommending cefazolin as a first‐line therapy for MSSA bacteremia. Recent clinical studies, however, have suggested similar clinical efficacy but better tolerability, with lower rates of discontinuation due to adverse drug reactions, of cefazolin compared with ASPs. Other variables, such as adequate source control (e.g., intravascular catheter removal, debridement, or drainage) and enhanced pharmacodynamics through aggressive cefazolin dosing, may mitigate the role of cefazolin inoculum effect and factor into determining improved clinical outcomes. In this review, we highlight the utility of cefazolin versus ASPs in the treatment of MSSA bacteremia with a focus on clinical efficacy and safety.
Suppression of zinc anode corrosion for printed flexible zinc‐air battery
Authors: Wongrujipairoj Krittaporn , Poolnapol Laksanaporn , Arpornwichanop Amornchai , Suren Sira , Kheawhom Soorathep
Published: December 2016

Self‐discharge caused by hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) coinciding with corrosion of the zinc anode is a major drawback of printed zinc‐air batteries. Thus, this work aims at suppressing self‐discharge of flexible printed zinc‐air batteries by coating thin layer of aluminum oxide () onto the surface of zinc particles. The coating layer was directly synthesized onto the zinc particles by a low‐cost and facile sol–gel method. The coating effectively mitigated HER of the zinc particles, and delayed the corrosion of the zinc anode. Further, the effects of the thickness of layer on corrosion behavior of the zinc anode in 9 M potassium hydroxide as well as performance of the batteries were investigated. With a proper thickness of coating, corrosion of the battery was considerably suppressed without sacrificing the battery performance.

(a) Photographic image of the fabricated battery, (b) transmission electron microscopic image of zinc particle coated with .
Speciation of uranium‐mandelic acid complexes using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and density functional theory
Authors: Kumar Pranaw , Jaison P.G. , Telmore V.M. , Sadhu Biswajit , Sundararajan Mahesh
Published: December 2016

Rationale

Mandelic acid is a complexing agent employed for the liquid chromatographic separation of actinides. However, the types of species and the structural details of the uranyl‐mandelate complexes are still unknown. Understanding the nature of these complex species would provide better insight into the mechanism of their separation in liquid chromatography.

Methods

Formation of different species of the uranyl ion (UO2) with mandelic acid was studied using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) with a quadrupole time‐of‐flight analyzer. The different species of uranyl nitrate with mandelic acid (MA) at ligand (L) to metal ratios in the range 1–10 were examined in both positive and negative ion modes. The stability of different species with the possible pathways of formation was scrutinized using density functional theory (DFT) calculations.

Results

In negative ion mode, nitrate‐containing UO2(MA)1, UO2(MA)2 and UO2(MA)3 species were found in good abundance. In positive ion mode, under‐coordinated uranyl‐mandelate species, and solvated (S) species of types UO2(MA)1(S), UO2(MA)1(S)2 and UO2(MA)2(S), were observed whereas nitrate‐containing species were absent. Interestingly, doubly and singly charged dimeric species were also identified in positive ion mode. The theoretically computed energetics of the various species are in close agreement with their experimentally observed intensities in ESI‐MS.

Conclusions

The most intense peak observed in ESI‐MS, UO2(MA)3, was found to be the energetically most favorable amongst different UO2(MA)n type species. Metal‐ligand equilibria studied in the two modes yielded similar results. The combined experimental and quantum chemical investigations predict that T‐shape complexes may be formed even in the gas phase. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphometric and crystallinity changes on jicama starch (Pachyrizus erosus) during gelatinization and their relation with in vitro glycemic index
Authors: Ramírez‐Miranda Mónica , Ribotta Pablo Daniel , Silva‐González Ana Zury Zaradi , Salgado‐Cruz Ma. De La Paz , Andraca‐Adame José Alberto , Chanona‐Pérez José Jorge , Calderón‐Domínguez Georgina
Published: December 2016

The effect of gelatinization on the in vitro glycemic index (GI) of starch obtained from jicama tubers was investigated, and the relationships between the starch crystallinity, granule morphology, and the GI were measured. Samples were prepared by heating an aqueous dispersion of starch (1:3 w/v) at different baking process temperatures (60, 65, 70, 75, or 80°C). Native starch granules showed spherical and polyhedral shapes, with a morphometric aspect ratio (AR) of 0.89–1.0 and sizes ranging from 3 to 21 μm. During the thermal process a change in the AR (0.21–0.88) and size (3.0–46 μm) was observed, as well as the formation of agglomerates. Native jicama starch exhibited a CA‐type X‐ray diffraction pattern, while those thermally treated showed a transition from the CA‐type to CB‐type, decreasing their crystallinity (20.8–11.5%) at higher temperatures. The gelatinization degree of the starch samples and the glycemic index showed the largest values (97.4% and 98.6% respectively) at the highest temperature (80°C), while the crystallinity percentage followed an inverse correlation to temperature (11.5%, 80°C), indicating that the thermal history affected the behavior of the starch enzymatic digestion. The in vitro glycemic index correlated positively with the gelatinization degree based on aspect ratio (R2 = 0.977), DSC gelatinization enthalpy (R2 = 0.969), and crystallinity (R2 = −0.988). Based on these results a mathematical model is proposed to determine the glycemic index as a function of the aspect ratio. However, more studies are required to validate this information.
Biodiesel Synthesis from Palm Fatty Acid Distillate Using Tungstophosphoric Acid Supported on Cesium‐Containing Niobia
Authors: Surasit Chanasuk , Yoosuk Boonyawan , Pohmakotr Manat , Tantirungrotechai Jonggol
Published: December 2016

Tungstophosphoric acid supported on cesium‐containing niobia (TPA/Csx/Nb2O5, x = 1.0–2.5) catalysts were prepared by a two‐step impregnation method, and their physico‐chemical properties were investigated. The initial studies on the esterification of oleic acid with methanol revealed that TPA/Cs ratio affected the acidity as well as the activity of the catalysts. Among the catalysts tested, TPA/Cs1.0/Nb2O5 exhibited the best performance. In addition, the efficiency of TPA/Cs1.0/Nb2O5 for biodiesel synthesis from palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD), a by‐product from palm oil industry, was demonstrated, and the reaction parameters were also evaluated. Over 90% yield of FAME was achieved, and the properties of the biodiesel obtained from PFAD met the standard requirements for biodiesel fuel. However, deactivation of the catalysts was observed, possibly due to structural transformation or organic residues blocking the active sites.