bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NMR metabolomics highlights sphingosine kinase‐1 as a new molecular switch in the orchestration of aberrant metabolic phenotype in cancer cells
Authors: Bernacchioni Caterina , Ghini Veronica , Cencetti Francesca , Japtok Lukasz , Donati Chiara , Bruni Paola , Turano Paola
Published: March 2017

Strong experimental evidence in animal and cellular models supports a pivotal role of sphingosine kinase‐1 (SK1) in oncogenesis. In many human cancers, SK1 levels are upregulated and these increases are linked to poor prognosis in patients. Here, by employing untargeted NMR‐based metabolomic profiling combined with functional validations, we report the crucial role of SK1 in the metabolic shift known as the Warburg effect in A2780 ovarian cancer cells. Indeed, expression of SK1 induced a high glycolytic rate, characterized by increased levels of lactate along with increased expression of the proton/monocarboxylate symporter MCT1, and decreased oxidative metabolism, associated with the accumulation of intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid cycle and reduction in CO2 production. Additionally, SK1‐expressing cells displayed a significant increase in glucose uptake paralleled by GLUT3 transporter upregulation. The role of SK1 is not limited to the induction of aerobic glycolysis, affecting metabolic pathways that appear to support the biosynthesis of macromolecules. These findings highlight the role of SK1 signaling axis in cancer metabolic reprogramming, pointing out innovative strategies for cancer therapies.
Origin of transionospheric pulse pairs
Authors: Wu H.‐C.
Published: March 2017

Transionospheric pulse pairs, associated with lightning, are the most powerful natural radio signals on Earth. Although they were discovered over two decades ago by satellites, their origin remains elusive. Here we attribute these radio signals to relativistic electrons generated by cloud‐to‐ground lightning. When these electrons strike the ground, radio bursts are emitted toward space within a narrow cone. This model naturally explains the interval, duration, polarization, coherence, and bimodal feature of the pulse pairs. Based on electron parameters inferred from X‐ray observations of lightning, we find that the calculated signal intensity agrees with satellite measurements. Our results can be applied to the development of a global warning system for storms and hurricanes using GPS satellites.
Revealing the Roles of Subdomains in the Catalytic Behavior of Lipases/Acyltransferases Homologous to CpLIP2 through Rational Design of Chimeric Enzymes
Authors: Jan Anne‐Hélène , Dubreucq Éric , Subileau Maeva
Published: March 2017

The lipases/acyltransferases homologous to CpLIP2 of Candida parapsilosis efficiently catalyze acyltransfer reactions in lipid/water media with high water activity (aW>0.9). Two new enzymes of this family, CduLAc from Candida dubliniensis and CalLAc8 from Candida albicans, were characterized. Despite 82 % sequence identity, the two enzymes have significant differences in their catalytic behaviors. In order to understand the roles played by the different subdomains of these proteins (main core, cap and C‐terminal flap), chimeric enzymes were designed by rational exchange of cap and C‐terminal flap, between CduLAc and CalLAc8. The results show that the cap region plays a significant role in substrate specificity; the main core was found to be the most important part of the protein for acyltransfer ability. Similar exchanges were made with CAL‐A from Candida antarctica, but only the C‐terminal exchange was successful. Yet, the role of this domain was not clearly elucidated, other than that it is essential for activity.
Female prostate: historical, developmental, and morphological perspectives
Authors: Biancardi Manoel F. , dos Santos Fernanda C. A. , de Carvalho Hernandes F. , Sanches Bruno D. A. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: March 2017

The female prostate was first described by Reijnier de Graaf in 1672, and even after several years this gland is still a matter of controversy. Part of this is because the biological function of this female gland is unclear. Moreover, when compared with the male prostate, the existence of this organ in females does not make sense, mainly when we consider that the major function of this gland is to produce a secretion that is responsible for guarantee the sperm survival and assure the reproductive success. However, even under a controversy field, we now have a lot of scientific information which enhances our knowledge of several important biological aspects of this gland. It is clear that this gland is found in some female mammals including humans, rodents, rabbits, bats, and dogs. Several studies with rodents showed that the female prostate is homolog of the male prostate, showing strong macroscopic and microscopic similarities with the ventral lobe of males. Besides these aspects, there are several studies reporting that diseases such as cysts, hyperplasia, and carcinoma may affect the female prostate. Therefore, although diseases involving the female prostate are rare, the susceptibility of this organ to develop lesions must be considered, especially in our recent years in which the exposure to endocrine‐disrupting chemicals has greatly increased. Finally, further studies will be necessary to enhance our understanding about this gland, mainly of the developmental, evolutionary, and biological functions.
Transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus using the AMPLATZER™ duct occluder II (ADO II)
Authors: Gruenstein Daniel H. , Ebeid Makram , Radtke Wolfgang , Moore Phillip , Holzer Ralf , Justino Henri
Published: March 2017

Objectives

The study purpose is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the ADO II device for closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in children.

Background

Transcatheter treatment of PDA has been evolving for 40+ years and is the treatment of choice. The AMPLATZER™ Duct Occluder (ADO) device was developed for larger diameter ducts and is not ideal in all PDAs. ADO II was developed for small to moderate‐sized ducts.

Methods

This is a single‐arm, multicenter study evaluating safety and efficacy of the ADO II device. Patients <18 years were screened for a PDA ≤5.5 mm in diameter and 3‐12 mm in length. Right and left heart catheterization was performed, and hemodynamic data were obtained at the time of implant. The diameter of the left pulmonary artery (LPA) and descending aorta, and the presence of any pre‐existing pressure gradients across the LPA or aortic arch were assessed at baseline and 6 months post‐implant.

Results

A total of 192 patients were enrolled. The median implant time was 74 min. Median fluoroscopy time was 12 min. A retrograde (aortic) approach was used in 33% of procedures and demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in fluoroscopy time (P value = 0.0018) compared to an antegrade approach. The device was successfully implanted in 93% of patients, with complete closure in 98% of successful implantations.

Conclusions

In this prospective study, the ADO II was safe and effective for closure of small to moderate PDAs. Implantation is simple and the ability for retrograde aortic delivery reduces procedure‐related radiation exposure. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnosis and treatment of spontaneous coronary artery pseudoaneurysm: Rare anomaly with potentially significant clinical implications
Authors: Kar Subrata , Webel Richard R.
Published: March 2017

Spontaneous coronary artery pseudoaneurysm (PSA, false aneurysm) is an extremely rare occurrence with the precise incidence unknown. It is defined as an outwardly bulging monolayer or double layer within the coronary artery that lacks all 3 layers (intima, media, and adventitia) of the arterial wall. Coronary PSA commonly occurs from arterial dissection or perforation induced by catheter intervention, infection, pregnancy, or trauma. Traumatic dissection or perforation of the coronary artery after a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains the most common cause. Such cases may progress to myocardial ischemia, acute myocardial infarction, or acute coronary artery rupture causing death from cardiac tamponade.

Intravascular ultrasound or cardiac computed tomography may aid in the diagnosis. Treatment options include PCI with a covered stent, bare or drug‐eluting stent, coil embolization, coronary artery bypass graft with isolation of the PSA, or conservative management with vigilant clinical follow‐up. In this review, we sought to describe the diagnosis, etiology, treatment, and the limited literature on spontaneous coronary artery PSA. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Unusual presentation of an adult pedunculated hemangioma of the oropharynx
Authors: Lechien Jérôme René , De Marrez Lisa G. , Theate Ivan , Khalife Mohamad , Saussez Sven
Published: March 2017

Key Clinical Message

Hemangioma is a benign tumor rarely found in adult, especially in oropharynx. This study describes the first case of mixed hemangioma occurring as an oropharyngeal asymptomatic pedunculated mass. Biopsy is excluded given the risk of hemorrhage. Diagnosis and treatment are based on the surgical resection and the histopathologic examination.
Fractionation of Degraded Lignin by Using a Water/1‐Butanol Mixture with a Solid‐Acid Catalyst: A Potential Source of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Nakasaka Yuta , Yoshikawa Takuya , Kawamata Yuki , Tago Teruoki , Sato Shinya , Takanohashi Toshimasa , Koyama Yoshihito , Masuda Takao
Published: March 2017

Fractionation of a lignin‐derived liquid using a water/1‐butanol mixture was investigated with the aim of developing a source of phenols. The effect of various phases on lignin depolymerization by using a water/1‐butanol mixture with a solid acid catalyst was investigated. The water/1‐butanol solvent was confirmed to be heterogeneous under the reaction conditions, and the liquid phase was essential for effective depolymerization of lignin. To make optimum use of the depolymerized lignin and to understand its chemical structure, solvent fractionation was performed by using a water/tetrahydrofuran solution, ethyl acetate, and n‐hexane as solvents. Catalytic cracking of the n‐hexane soluble fraction was performed over an iron oxide catalyst by using a high‐pressure fixed‐bed flow reactor at 673 K. The production of phenol was confirmed, and the demethoxylation reaction was examined by using model compounds. In addition, as the heavy components were extracted during the solvent fractionation, as confirmed by analysis of the molecular structures of the fractionated components, the formation of solid products could be suppressed to a level below 2.5 molC % based on lignin.
Chemical Structure Change of Magnesium Oxide in the Wet Oxidation Delignification Process of Biomass with Solid Alkali
Authors: Jiang Yetao , Ding Ning , Luo Bin , Li Zheng , Tang Xing , Zeng Xianhai , Sun Yong , Liu Shijie , Lei Tingzhou , Lin Lu
Published: March 2017

We have developed a facile MgO‐based wet oxidation process for biomass pretreatment. Herein, we performed kilo‐scale experiments to elucidate the transformations of Mg in the process as well as the recycling of the MgO‐based solid alkali. A new intermediate, magnesium oxide carbonate [Mg3O(CO3)2] generated in situ during the process was shown for the first time, which could provide an indispensably weak but adequate alkaline environment to support the oxygen delignification reaction. However, once the solid alkali was transformed into hydromagnesite [Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2] with sufficient CO2, the hydromagnesite form would prevent the solid alkali from developing resistance to the acidic gaseous CO2. Ultimately, if we take the features of the solid alkali into consideration, alkali recovery for this process was fulfilled easily without concentration or causticization, which are of high cost but unavoidable in the traditional recycling of sodium alkali.
A Combined Approach using Sonochemistry and Photocatalysis: How to Apply Sonophotocatalysis for Biomass Conversion?
Authors: Chatel Gregory , Valange Sabine , Behling Ronan , Colmenares Juan Carlos
Published: March 2017

The innovative combination of sonochemistry (power ultrasound) and photocatalysis (UV light) has been extensively investigated in the literature, especially as an advanced oxidation process. Based on these results but with a completely different strategy, the sonophotocatalysis starts to be applied to organic reactions and could represent an innovative way to valorize biomass into fuels or platform molecules. This article discusses this opportunity and proposes some trends and outlooks for further researches in the area.
A Highly Active PBP–Iridium Catalyst for the Dehydrogenation of Dimethylamine–Borane: Catalytic Performance and Mechanism
Authors: Kwan Enrique Huang , Ogawa Hayato , Yamashita Makoto
Published: March 2017

A long‐tethered boron‐containing (P‐B‐P) pincer ligand with an aliphatic backbone was synthesized. Oxidative addition of the B−H bond in the ligand to [Ir(coe)2Cl]2 (coe=cyclooctene) afforded the (P‐B‐P)Ir(H)Cl complex. A catalyst system comprising the iridium complex and KOtBu showed excellent performance in the dehydrocoupling of N,N‐dimethylamine–borane (DMAB), releasing 1 equivalent of dihydrogen gas from a concentrated solution of DMAB at a low catalyst loading of 0.05 mol % and with an initial turnover frequency of approximately 3400 h−1. The dihydride (P‐B‐P)Ir(H)2 complex also catalyzed the dehydrogenation of DMAB and was postulated as one of the intermediates in the catalytic cycle.
Single and Binary CO2/CH4 Separation of a Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework‐8 Membrane
Authors: Lai Li Sze , Yeong Yin Fong , Lau Kok Keong , Shariff Azmi Mohd
Published: March 2017

The performance of a zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) membrane in single and binary CO2/CH4 gas separation was investigated by means of a gas transport model that included generalized Maxwell‐Stefan and binary friction models. The model concerns gas diffusion through the membrane layer, gas flow through membrane intercrystalline pores, and resistance of the support layer. The effective membrane area considering the actual area for the gas permeated through the membrane was also introduced in this model. The selective ZIF‐8 membrane was successfully synthesized using a microwave‐assisted solvothermal method on an α‐alumina support pre‐attached with ZIF‐8 seeds by solvent evaporation. The simulated data agreed well with the experimental data. The model revealed that the membrane intercrystalline pores and its effective area significantly affected the CO2/CH4 gas permeation and separation performance.
Mass Transfer from Small Droplets Suspended in a Turbulent Fluid
Authors: Jasińska Magdalena , Bałdyga Jerzy
Published: March 2017

The mechanism and efficiency of mass transfer in two‐phase liquid‐liquid systems are investigated. Experiments were carried out in a high‐shear in‐line rotor‐stator mixer. The method applied is based on the experimental determination of both the product distribution of the chemical test reactions and the drop size distributions. The product distribution of the complex test reactions was determined based on high‐performance liquid chromatography measurements. The drop size distribution was measured just after the process. The multifractal model of drop breakage and the model of mass transfer by Favelukis and Lavrenteva were applied to identify the energetic efficiency of drop breakage and mass transfer in the in‐line rotor‐stator mixer.
A Probabilistic‐Statistical Model of the Particle Classification Process in Small Hydrocyclone Classifiers
Authors: Krokhina Alina V. , Lvov Vladimir A. , Pavlikhin Gennady P.
Published: March 2017

Various chemical engineering processes, such as separation, purification or classification, apply hydrocyclones, either stand‐alone or as cascaded, multi‐level systems. However, calculation of transfer processes in hydrocylcone classifiers remains difficult due to the complex behavior of the dispersed particles. Here, an analytical model of particle classification process of liquid‐solid polydisperse systems in cylinder‐cone hydrocyclone classifiers of small sizes has been developed. The applicability of a probability and statistical calculation method by using diffusion‐type equations and, in particular, the Fokker‐Planck‐Kolmogorov equation, is theoretically shown.
Modeling Suspension Cultures of Microbial and Mammalian Cells with an Adaptable Six‐Compartment Model
Authors: Brüning Simone , Gerlach Inga , Pörtner Ralf , Mandenius Carl-Fredrik , Hass Volker C.
Published: March 2017

Process models can be used for model‐based control strategies, but model development is a time‐consuming and laborious task. To reduce the modeling effort, a new structured compartment model was developed, which may easily be adapted to different cultivation processes. The proposed six‐compartment model was used to describe the time courses of cultivations of bacteria, yeast, fungi, and mammalian cell lines, namely, Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Cyathus striatus, and a hybridoma mammalian cell line. The model can describe the time courses of important state variables and can be adapted to the cultivation processes by parameterization. This reduces the modeling effort for a new process significantly.
Porous Amorphous Co2P/N,B‐Co‐doped Carbon Composite as an Improved Anode Material for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xing Yue‐Ming , Zhang Xiao‐Hua , Liu Dai‐Huo , Li Wen‐Hao , Sun Ling‐Na , Geng Hong‐Bo , Zhang Jing‐Ping , Guan Hong‐Yu , Wu Xing‐Long
Published: March 2017

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) represent a promising alternative to lithium‐ion batteries, owing to the much higher abundance and lower cost of sodium resources in comparison with lithium. However, the electrode materials of SIBs usually suffer from more severe issues, such as low specific capacity and poor cyclability, owing to the much larger Na+ diameter and drastic volumetric variations during sodiation/desodiation. Hence, it is still a huge challenge to develop superior electrode materials for reversible Na storage. In comparison with the crystalline materials conventionally used in batteries, amorphous ones may offer a more stable framework for the uptake of Na. To address these issues, a porous composite composed of amorphous Co2P and N,B‐co‐doped carbon (A‐Co2P/CxNyBz‐650) is prepared by controlling the annealing temperature at 650 °C after freeze‐drying the precursors. As‐prepared A‐Co2P/CxNyBz‐650 exhibits much better Na‐storage properties in terms of higher Na‐storage capacity, longer cycling stability, and excellent rate performance compared with the crystalline counterparts. These may benefit from the fact that the amorphous framework can provide easier Na+ accessibility and better strain accommodation, originating from volumetric variations during sodiation/desodiation. More importantly, the electrolyte for all of the electrochemical tests are NaPF6 based, which is more accessible for practical applications because of its higher safety compared with the commonly used NaClO4‐based electrolyte.
Paragenesis of Palladium–Cobalt Nanoparticle in Nitrogen‐Rich Carbon Nanotubes as a Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen‐Evolution Reaction and Oxygen‐Reduction Reaction
Authors: Huang Binbin , Chen Liyu , Wang Yan , Ouyang Liuzhang , Ye Jianshan
Published: March 2017

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) play important roles in many energy conversion and storage systems. To accelerate the reaction processes, there is a constant need for efficient new catalysts. In the present work, we have developed a facile pyrolysis‐based process for the co‐synthesis of palladium‐cobalt nanoparticles supported on carbon nanotubes (Pd‐CoCNTs), which exhibit superior catalytic activity for the HER and enhanced ORR performance. Non‐agglomerated Pd nanoparticles of diameters 2–4 nm are uniformly distributed on the surface of CoCNTs, while the inner Co particles are an essential element in forming the framework of the CoCNTs. Compared to the Pd‐free N‐rich CoCNTs, Pd‐CoCNTs have a more defective surface with a larger electrochemically active surface area (ECSA), and show enhanced ORR activity, outstanding methanol tolerance, and long‐term stability in alkaline solution. At a low Pd loading of 0.0292 mg cm−2, the Pd‐CoCNTs require overpotentials of 0.024 V and 0.215 V to catalyze the HER and to drive a current density of 50 mA cm−2 in acidic solution, respectively. The palladium nanoparticles on the surface of the CoCNTs are considered to be highly active sites for HER, based on the results of control experiments, and it is easy to adjust the catalytic activity of the Pd‐CoCNTs by changing the concentration of Pd therein. The proposed method provides a means of fabricating efficient bifunctional catalysts with controllable low contents of precious metals.
Formation and Reactivity of a C‐P‐N‐Sc Four‐Membered Ring: H2, O2, CO, Phenylsilane, and Pinacolborane Activation
Authors: Zhou Jiliang , Xiang Li , Guo Jingjing , Leng Xuebing , Chen Yaofeng
Published: March 2017

Reaction of scandium dimethyl complex LScMe2 (L=[2‐{N(DIPP)C(Ph)N}C6H4CH=N(DIPP)]−, DIPP=2,6‐(iPr)2C6H3) (2) with bulky phosphine ArPH2 (Ar=2,6‐{3,5‐(Me)2C6H3}2C6H3) gives an unprecedented scandium 2,3‐azaphosphametallacyclobutane complex L′Sc (L′=[2‐{N(DIPP)C(Ph)N}C6H4C(H)P(2,6‐{3,5‐(CH3)2C6H3}2C6H3)N(DIPP)]3−) (3) that contains a C‐P‐N‐Sc four‐membered ring. Complex 3 was characterized by X‐ray crystallography, revealing a short distance between the Sc and P atoms (2.786(1) Å), but without a direct Sc−P bonding interaction. The formation of 3 involves a complete cleavage of the imino bond of the tridentate ligand L and C−P and N−P bond coupling. Complex 3 not only activates H2 under mild conditions to give a H−H bond cleavage product, but also reacts with O2, CO, phenylsilane, and pinacolborane to produce novel products through cleavage and formation of various bonds.
Diurnal, Seasonal, and Vertical Variability in Carbon Monoxide Levels at a Semi‐Urban Site in India
Authors: Verma Nidhi , Satsangi Aparna , Lakhani Anita , Kumari Kandikonda Maharaj , Lal Shyam
Published: March 2017

In the present study, near‐surface carbon monoxide (CO) measurements were carried out at a semi‐urban site in Agra, India (27°10′N, 78°05′E), during March 2015 to February 2016. The study includes the diurnal, seasonal, and vertical variation of CO and the effect of meteorological parameters on its levels. The diurnal variation of CO was characterized by high levels during morning (9–10 am) and evening (10–11 pm) hours and low levels during the afternoon (3–5 pm). The morning and evening peak levels may be due to high emissions from traffic and low planetary boundary layer (PBL) height which prevents dispersion of pollutants. The low levels during afternoon hours may be due to increasing PBL height and loss through photochemical reactions. CO showed a distinct seasonal variation with highest levels in winter (770 ± 466 ppb) and lowest in monsoon (153 ± 122 ppb). The high levels in the winter season may be attributed to increased emissions from coal and wood burning used for heating in combination with stagnant weather conditions. The study also included latest retrievals of CO using Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere (MOPITT) to define the vertical and seasonal variation of CO. The pattern of seasonal variation observed by ground level measurements was consistent with MOPITT surface CO levels.
Impact of Agri‐Usable Nanocompounds on Soil Microbial Activity: An Indicator of Soil Health
Authors: Khati Priyanka , Sharma Anita , Gangola Saurabh , Kumar Rajeew , Bhatt Pankaj , Kumar Govind
Published: March 2017

Soil quality of agriculture fields has been significantly influenced by rapid industrialization and pollution which has affected crop productivity and quality. Carbon based formulations of some nanocompounds are finding their way in the agriculture sector due to positive response on plant health. The present study revealed the impact of three agri‐usable nanocompounds (being used in an agricultural field of the University since the last 4–5 years on different cropping systems) on soil health on the basis of physicochemical characters, microbial activities, indicator enzymes, and total extractable protein. Nanocompounds used in the fields were nanoclay, nanochitosan, and nanozeolite with a size of <80 nm, 99% purity with an application rate of 0.03 g/1.5 L ha−1. Nanoclay had little effect on the pH of soil. The level of available phosphorus, organic carbon and ammoniacal nitrogen was higher in all the soil samples treated with nanocompounds than the control. All the nanocompounds supported microbial population. Significant increase in the activities of dehydrogenase, fluorescein diacetate, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, arylesterase, and β‐glucosidase was observed in soil samples treated with nanocompounds. Total protein concentration of treated soil was also enhanced by 1.5‐fold as compared to control. The performance of nanozeolite was found best with all the parameters. The finding of the present study suggest that the nanocompounds support microbial activity and hence the soil health.
A Hollow Tube‐on‐Tube Architecture of Carbon‐Tube‐Supported Nickel Cobalt Sulfide Nanotubes for Advanced Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Nannan , Wang Yanjie , Cui Shizhong , Hou Hongwei , Mi Liwei , Chen Weihua
Published: March 2017

The nanotube structure has unique advantages, such as a large electroactive surface area and shorter diffusion pathway for ions/electrons for energy storage. In this paper, we fabricated a novel supercapacitor electrode material based on a composite material with a hollow tube‐on‐tube architecture. This architecture, which was derived from the sustainable Juncus roemerianus, consisted of nickel cobalt sulfide nanotubes coating the exterior and interior of carbon tubes. The obtained hollow tube‐on‐tube structure is similar to a reservoir, in which ions/electrons can diffuse via a bi‐directional method and supply and transfer to the carbon tube interface. Consequently, this structure can probably provide more electrochemically active sites for its application in high‐performance asymmetric supercapacitors (ASCs). The assembled ASC device also presents superior specific capacitance (83 F g−1 at the current density of 0.5 A g−1), high energy density (27.7 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 263.6 W kg−1), and good cycling stability (72.23 % capacitance retention after 3000 cycles). Therefore, the NiCo2S4/bio‐carbon electrode with hollow tube‐on‐tube structure is not only a promising electrode material, but also can be applicable to energy storage and conversion devices.
Formation and Stability of Bulk Nanobubbles Generated by Ethanol–Water Exchange
Authors: Qiu Jie , Zou Zhenglei , Wang Shuo , Wang Xingya , Wang Lei , Dong Yaming , Zhao Hongwei , Zhang Lijuan , Hu Jun
Published: March 2017

Bulk nanobubbles have unique properties and find potential applications in many important processes. However, their stability or long lifetime still needs to be understood and has attracted much attention from researchers. Bulk nanobubbles are generated based on ethanol–water exchange, a method that is generally used in the study of surface nanobubbles. Their formation and stability is further studied by using a new type of dynamic light scattering known as NanoSight. The results show that the concentration of the bulk nanobubbles produced by this method is about five times greater than that in the degassed group, which indicates the existence of bulk gas nanobubbles. The effects of ethanol/water ratios and temperature on the stability of the bulk nanobubbles have also been studied and their numbers reach a maximum at a ratio of about 1:10 (v/v).
Predicting species establishment using absent species and functional neighborhoods
Authors: Bennett Jonathan A. , Pärtel Meelis
Published: March 2017

Species establishment within a community depends on their interactions with the local environment and resident community. Such environmental and biotic filtering is frequently inferred from functional trait and phylogenetic patterns within communities; these patterns may also predict which additional species can establish. However, differentiating between environmental and biotic filtering can be challenging, which may complicate establishment predictions. Creating a habitat‐specific species pool by identifying which absent species within the region can establish in the focal habitat allows us to isolate biotic filtering by modeling dissimilarity between the observed and biotically excluded species able to pass environmental filters. Similarly, modeling the dissimilarity between the habitat‐specific species pool and the environmentally excluded species within the region can isolate local environmental filters. Combined, these models identify potentially successful phenotypes and why certain phenotypes were unsuccessful. Here, we present a framework that uses the functional dissimilarity among these groups in logistic models to predict establishment of additional species. This approach can use multivariate trait distances and phylogenetic information, but is most powerful when using individual traits and their interactions. It also requires an appropriate distance‐based dissimilarity measure, yet the two most commonly used indices, nearest neighbor (one species) and mean pairwise (all species) distances, may inaccurately predict establishment. By iteratively increasing the number of species used to measure dissimilarity, a functional neighborhood can be chosen that maximizes the detection of underlying trait patterns. We tested this framework using two seed addition experiments in calcareous grasslands. Although the functional neighborhood size that best fits the community's trait structure depended on the type of filtering considered, selecting these functional neighborhood sizes allowed our framework to predict up to 50% of the variation in actual establishment from seed. These results indicate that the proposed framework may be a powerful tool for studying and predicting species establishment.
Differentiating heart failure phenotypes using sex‐specific transcriptomic and proteomic biomarker panels
Authors: Toma Mustafa , Mak George J. , Chen Virginia , Hollander Zsuzsanna , Shannon Casey P. , Lam Karen K.Y. , Ng Raymond T. , Tebbutt Scott J. , Wilson‐McManus Janet E. , Ignaszewski Andrew , Anderson Todd , Dyck Jason R.B. , Howlett Jonathan , Ezekowitz Justin , McManus Bruce M. , Oudit Gavin Y.
Published: March 2017

Aims

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) accounts for 30–50% of patients with heart failure (HF). A major obstacle in HF management is the difficulty in differentiating between HFpEF and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) using conventional clinical and laboratory investigations. The aim of this study is to develop robust transcriptomic and proteomic biomarker signatures that can differentiate HFpEF from HFrEF.

Methods and results

A total of 210 HF patients were recruited in participating institutions from the Alberta HEART study. An expert clinical adjudicating panel differentiated between patients with HFpEF and HFrEF. The discovery cohort consisted of 61 patients, and the replication cohort consisted of 70 patients. Transcriptomic and proteomic data were analysed to find panels of differentiating HFpEF from HFrEF. In the discovery cohort, a 22‐transcript panel was found to differentiate HFpEF from HFrEF in male patients with a cross‐validation AUC of 0.74, as compared with 0.70 for N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) in those same patients. An ensemble of the transcript panel and NT‐pro‐BNP yielded a cross‐validation AUC of 0.80. This performance improvement was also observed in the replication cohort. An ensemble of the transcriptomic panel with NT‐proBNP produced a replication AUC of 0.90, as compared with 0.74 for NT‐proBNP alone and 0.73 for the transcriptomic panel.

Conclusions

We have identified a male‐specific transcriptomic biomarker panel that can differentiate between HFpEF and HFrEF. These biosignatures could be further replicated on other patients and potentially be developed into a blood test for better management of HF patients.
Differences in antioxidant activity between two rice protein concentrates in an oil‐in‐water emulsion
Authors: Bakota Erica L. , Winkler‐Moser Jill K.
Published: March 2017

Two formulations of rice protein concentrates (RPC) derived from brown rice were evaluated for their antioxidant activity in bulk oil and in oil‐in‐water emulsions. Bulk oils were mixed with RPC and heated to 180°C, and total polar compounds and triacylglycerol polymerization were measured. Minimal antioxidant activity was observed in the bulk oil phase. Rice protein concentrates were incorporated into soybean oil‐in‐water emulsions, which were oxidized at 50°C for 8 days. Lipid oxidation in emulsions was assessed via peroxide values (PV), headspace oxygen levels, headspace volatile oxidation products, and fatty acid analysis. One of the RPC treatments showed some antioxidant activity in emulsions, suggesting that RPC could potentially be used to extend shelf life and preserve product quality.

Practical applications: Naturally derived antioxidants that can inhibit oxidation in edible oils are in high demand. As consumers become more label‐conscious, synthetic antioxidants are falling out of favor. Rice proteins offer a means of antioxidant capability in emulsions, which may have applications in improving shelf life and/or product quality in a variety of foods, including sauces, salad dressings, and dairy products. Rice protein concentrations show more promise in emulsions than in bulk oil.

Protein concentrates derived from brown rice (left) were incorporated into oil‐in‐water emulsions (center) and showed differing abilities to suppress lipid oxidation (linolenic acid, shown right).
Discrimination of sesame oil adulterated with corn oil using information fusion of synchronous and asynchronous two‐dimensional near‐mid infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Renjie , Dong Guimei , Sun Xueshan , Yang Yanrong , Liu Haixue , Du Yanhong , Jin Hao , Zhang Weiyu
Published: March 2017

A new and accurate approach for classifying sesame oil adulterated with corn oil using the information fusion of synchronous and asynchronous 2D NIR‐MIR correlation spectroscopy combined with least squares support vector machines (LS‐SVM). N‐way partial least square discriminant analysis (NPLS‐DA) was adopted to extract the principal components of synchronous and asynchronous 2D NIR‐MIR correlation matrices. And the score matrices of synchronous and asynchronous 2D NIR‐MIR correlation spectroscopy were emerged. Both separate and emerged score matrices were input LS‐SVM to construct discriminate models for adulterated sesame oil. The ratios of correct classification were 98.1 and 100% for calibration set and prediction set, respectively, based on information fusion combined with LS‐SVM. Comparison results showed that the LS‐SVM model could provide higher discriminant accuracy for adulterated sesame soil based on the information fusion of synchronous and asynchronous 2D NIR‐MIR correlation spectroscopy than both separate spectra information.

Practical applications: The proposed method not only contains NIR and MIR spectral information, but also contains the similar and dissimilar variation spectral information with the perturbation. Thus, the method can provide better discriminate results of adulterated sesame oil in comparison with conventional spectral methods; can also be applied to other food safety detection areas.

The information fusion of synchronous and asynchronous 2D NIR‐MIR correlation spectroscopy is proposed for classifying adulterated sesame oil.
Chiral Imidazolium Ionic Liquids Derived from (S)‐Prolinamine as Organocatalysts in the Asymmetric Michael Reaction and Michael‐Aldol Cascade Reaction under Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: Obregón‐Zúñiga Arturo , Guerrero‐Robles Marco , Juaristi Eusebio
Published: March 2017

The synthesis of three new chiral imidazolium ionic liquids (prepared by the combination of one new chiral organic cation with different anions) and their application in the enantioselective Michael reaction between cyclohexanone and substituted nitrostyrenes under solvent‐free conditions is described. In addition, the first asymmetric cascade Michael‐aldol reaction of cyclohexanone and benzylidenepyruvate organocatalyzed by chiral ionic liquids is reported. Recyclability of the catalyst was evaluated for both reactions, and no loss in stereoselectivity up to the third cycle was observed.
Pyrazoles and C‐Imidoylaziridines through [4+1] Annulation and [2+1] Cycloaddition of 1‐Azabuta‐1,3‐dienes with a Synthetic Equivalent of Phthalimidonitrene
Authors: Stukalov Aleksandr , Sokolov Viktor V. , Suslonov Vitalii V. , Kuznetsov Mikhail A.
Published: March 2017

Oxidative addition of N‐aminophthalimide to 1,2,4‐triaryl‐1‐azabuta‐1,3‐dienes leads, in most cases, to the regiodefined formation of 1,3,5‐triarylpyrazoles in moderate to good yields through [4+1] annulation. This transformation is supposed to proceed by nitrenoid attack onto a lone pair of electrons of the imine nitrogen atom to give the vinylazomethine imine, followed by its 1,5‐electrocyclization into pyrazoline and further aromatization into pyrazole. Rare examples of 2‐imidoyl‐1‐phthalimidoaziridines that are formed by competitive [2+1] cycloaddition onto the C=C bond were isolated in low yields for 1‐azadienes with electron‐deficient aryl substituents at the imine nitrogen atom.
Assessment of the binding performance of histamine‐imprinted microspheres by frontal analysis capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Romano Edwin F. , Quirino Joselito P. , Holdsworth John L. , So Regina C. , Holdsworth Clovia I.
Published: March 2017

Frontal analysis capillary electrophoresis was used to evaluate the binding performance of molecularly imprinted microspheres (MIM) toward its template histamine and analogs at pH 7, and compared to the high performance liquid chromatographic method. In both methods, batch binding was employed and the binding parameters were calculated from the measured concentration of unbound amine analytes and afforded comparable histamine equilibrium dissociation constants (Kd ∼ 0.4 mM). FACE was easily carried out at shorter binding equilibration time (i.e. 30 min) and without the need to separate the microspheres, circumventing laborious and, in the case of the system under study, inefficient sample filtration. It also allowed for competitive binding studies by virtue of its ability to distinctly separate intact microspheres and all tested amines which could not be resolved in HPLC. Kd’s for nonimprinted (control) microspheres (NIM) from FACE and HPLC were also comparable (∼ 0.6 mM) but at higher histamine concentrations, HPLC gave lower histamine binding. This discrepancy was attributed to inefficient filtration of the batch binding samples prior to HPLC analysis resulting in an over‐estimation of the concentration of free histamine brought about by the presence of unfiltered histamine‐bound microspheres.
On numerical aspects of simulating flow past a circular cylinder
Authors: Jiang Hongyi , Cheng Liang , An Hongwei
Published: March 2017

Three‐dimensional direct numerical simulation results of flow past a circular cylinder are influenced by numerical aspects, for example the spanwise domain length and the lateral boundary condition adopted for the simulation. It is found that inappropriate numerical set‐up, which restricts the development of intrinsic wake structure, leads to an over‐prediction of the onset point of the secondary wake instability (Recr). A best practice of the numerical set‐up is presented for the accurate prediction of Recr by direct numerical simulation while minimizing the computational cost. The cylinder span length should be chosen on the basis of the intrinsic wavelength of the wake structure to be simulated, whereas a long span length is not necessary. For the wake transitions above Recr, because the wake structures no longer follow particular wavelengths but become disordered and chaotic, a span length of more than 10 cylinder diameters (approximately three times the intrinsic wavelength) is recommended for the simulations to obtain wake structures and hydrodynamic forces that are not strongly restricted by the numerical set‐up. The performances of the periodic and symmetry lateral boundary conditions are compared and discussed. The symmetry boundary condition is recommended for predicting Recr, while the periodic boundary condition is recommended for simulating the wake structures above Recr. The general conclusions drawn through a circular cylinder are expected to be applicable to other bluff body configurations. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Novel Role of Vesicles as Templates for the Oxidation and Oligomerization ofp‐Aminodiphenylamine by Cytochromec
Authors: Luginbühl Sandra , Iwasaki Fumihiko , Chirackal Varkey Elizabeth , Umakoshi Hiroshi , Walde Peter
Published: March 2017

The oxidation and subsequent oligo‐ or polymerization of aniline or the N‐C‐paracoupled aniline dimerp‐aminodiphenylamine (N‐phenyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamine) with H2O2‐dependent heme peroxidases in aqueous medium at pH = 4.3 is strongly influenced in a positive way by the presence of anionic polymers, micelles or vesicles as soft ‘templates’ (macromolecular or polymolecular additives), to yield products which resemble the emeraldine salt form of polyaniline (PANI‐ES). The positive effect the templates exert on the reaction mainly originates from interactions between the templates and the monomers, reaction intermediates and products, whereby the reaction occurs localized in the vicinity of the templates, suppressing undesired side reactions. As shown in the present work, the templates may even play an additional role, depending on the type of catalyst. Through interactions between the heme protein cytochromecand anionic vesicles, cytochromecgains increased peroxidase activity. In this way, the templates not only serve for hosting the oxidation and oligo‐ or polymerization reactions for obtaining PANI‐ES type products, but also simultaneously activate the catalyst in order to trigger the reaction.
Cokriging for enhanced spatial interpolation of rainfall in two Australian catchments
Authors: Adhikary Sajal Kumar , Muttil Nitin , Yilmaz Abdullah Gokhan
Published: March 2017

Rainfall data in continuous space provide an essential input for most hydrological and water resources planning studies. Spatial distribution of rainfall is usually estimated using ground‐based point rainfall data from sparsely positioned rain‐gauge stations in a rain‐gauge network. Kriging has become a widely used interpolation method to estimate the spatial distribution of climate variables including rainfall. The objective of this study is to evaluate three geostatistical (ordinary kriging [OK], ordinary cokriging [OCK], kriging with an external drift [KED]), and two deterministic (inverse distance weighting, radial basis function) interpolation methods for enhanced spatial interpolation of monthly rainfall in the Middle Yarra River catchment and the Ovens River catchment in Victoria, Australia. Historical rainfall records from existing rain‐gauge stations of the catchments during 1980–2012 period are used for the analysis. A digital elevation model of each catchment is used as the supplementary information in addition to rainfall for the OCK and kriging with an external drift methods. The prediction performance of the adopted interpolation methods is assessed through cross‐validation. Results indicate that the geostatistical methods outperform the deterministic methods for spatial interpolation of rainfall. Results also indicate that among the geostatistical methods, the OCK method is found to be the best interpolator for estimating spatial rainfall distribution in both the catchments with the lowest prediction error between the observed and estimated monthly rainfall. Thus, this study demonstrates that the use of elevation as an auxiliary variable in addition to rainfall data in the geostatistical framework can significantly enhance the estimation of rainfall over a catchment.
Pre‐implantation genetic screening among women experiencing recurrent failure of in vitro fertilization
Authors: Hatirnaz Safak , Ozer Alev , Hatirnaz Ebru , Atasever Melahat , Başaranoglu Serdar , Kanat‐Pektas Mine , Api Murat
Published: March 2017

Objective

To determine the efficiency of pre‐implantation genetic screening (PGS) among women scheduled to undergo intracytoplasmic sperm injection who had experienced recurrent in vitro fertilization (IVF) failure.

Methods

The present retrospective cohort study reviewed the medical records of consecutive women who had experienced recurrent IVF failure and had presented at a private IVF facility in Trabzon Province, Turkey, to undergo intracytoplasmic sperm injection between May 1, 2012, and December 31, 2014. Patient data and perinatal outcomes were compared between patients who underwent PGS and those who did not.

Results

There were 88 patients included in the study; 43 patients had undergone PGS and 45 had declined to do so. No differences were detected in the clinical pregnancy rate (P=0.846), spontaneous abortion rate (P=0.416), number of perinatal deaths (P=0.162), or the number of live deliveries (P=0.188) between the groups of patients. The pregnancies included in the study resulted in 25 neonates being delivered; 24 had normal karyotypes, and one neonate from the control group had a karyotype of 46, XX, 9ph. Among the 19 embryos that were not transferred, the most frequently encountered chromosomal anomalies were diploidy, monosomy X, and 2N/N/4N mosaicism, detected in 7 (37%), 2 (11%), and 2 (11%) embryos, respectively.

Conclusion

PGS had no effect on perinatal outcomes among women experiencing recurrent IVF failure.
Maternal and neonatal outcomes among women with HIV infection and their infants in Malawi
Authors: Chevalier Michelle S. , King Caroline C. , Ellington Sascha , Wiener Jeffrey , Kayira Dumbani , Chasela Charles S. , Jamieson Denise J. , Kourtis Athena P.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To describe maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality among women with HIV infection and their infants.

Methods

A secondary analysis was undertaken of data obtained in the BAN Study, a trial of postnatal antiretrovirals among pregnant women with HIV infection enrolled in 2004–2010. Mothers and infants had 13 scheduled visits through 48 weeks of follow‐up. Serious maternal morbidity and mortality were examined at delivery (n=2791), from delivery to 6 weeks later (n=2369) and from 7 to 48 weeks (n=1980). Neonatal morbidity and mortality were examined (n=2685).

Results

Of 2791 deliveries, 169 (6.1%) were by cesarean (153 emergency). Compared with women with vaginal delivery, those with cesarean delivery had lower prenatal HIV viral loads (P=0.016) and increased odds of pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia (odds ratio [OR] 10.8, 95% CI 4.4–26.8). Women with cesarean delivery also had increased odds of serious infection with 14 days of delivery (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.3–7.4) and severe anemia (grade 3 or 4) by 6 weeks (OR 6.7, 95% CI 2.3–19.1). Infants born by cesarean had increased odds of a low 5‐minute Apgar score (OR 8.1, 95% CI 3.5–18.6) and admission to an intensive care unit (OR 5.4, 95% CI 3.7–7.8).

Conclusion

Odds of serious maternal and neonatal morbidity were higher after cesarean than vaginal delivery, despite lower maternal viral loads.