bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A virulent clone of Devriesea agamarum affects endangered Lesser Antillean iguanas (Iguana delicatissima)
Authors: Hellebuyck Tom , Questel Karl , Pasmans Frank , Brantegem Leen Van , Philip Pascal , Martel An
Published: September 2017

Infectious diseases affecting wildlife are drivers of global biodiversity loss. Here we report a bacterial threat to endangered wild reptiles. Since April 2011, a severe skin disease has affected free-ranging, endangered Lesser Antillean iguanas (Iguana delicatissima) on the French Caribbean island of Saint Barthélemy and we identified Devriesea agamarum as the causative agent. The presence of this bacterium was also demonstrated in healthy lizards (anoles) co-inhabiting the island. All isolates from the iguanas corresponded to a single AFLP genotype that until now has exclusively been associated with infections in lizard species in captivity. The clonal relatedness of the isolates and recent emergence of the disease suggest recent arrival of a virulent D. agamarum clone on the island. The presence of healthy but infected lizards suggests the presence of asymptomatic reservoir hosts. This is the first description of a bacterial disease that poses a conservation threat towards free-ranging squamates.
The hUC-MSCs cell line CCRC-1 represents a novel, safe and high-yielding HDCs for the production of human viral vaccines
Authors: Chen Ping , Zhang Ke-Hua , Na Tao , Wang Lin , Yin Wei-Dong , Yuan Bao-Zhu , Wang Jun-Zhi
Published: September 2017

MRC-5 represents the most frequent human diploid cells (HDCs)-type cell substrate in the production of human viral vaccines. However, early-passage MRC-5 is diminishing and, due to both technical and ethical issues, it is extremely difficult to derive novel HDCs from fetal lung tissues, which are the common sources of HDCs. Our previous studies suggested that human umbilical cord may represent an alternative but convenient source of new HDCs. Here, we established a three-tiered cell banking system of a hUC-MSC line, designated previously as Cell Collection and Research Center-1 (CCRC-1). The full characterization indicated that the banked CCRC-1 cells were free from adventitious agents and remained non-tumorigenic. The CCRC-1 cells sustained its rapid proliferation even at passage 30 and were susceptible to the infection of a wide spectrum of viruses. Interestingly, the CCRC-1 cells showed much higher production of EV71 or Rubella viruses than MRC-5 and Vero cells when growing in serum-free medium. More importantly, the EV71 vaccine produced from CCRC-1 cells induced immunogenicity while eliciting no detectable toxicities in the tested mice. Collectively, these studies further supported that CCRC-1, and likely other hUC-MSCs as well, may serve as novel, safe and high-yielding HDCs for the production of human viral vaccines.
Integrating transcriptome and microRNA analysis identifies genes and microRNAs for AHO-induced systemic acquired resistance in N. tabacum
Authors: Chen Yongdui , Dong Jiahong , Bennetzen Jeffrey L. , Zhong Micai , Yang Jun , Zhang Jie , Li Shunlin , Hao Xiaojiang , Zhang Zhongkai , Wang Xuewen
Published: September 2017

3-Acetonyl-3-hydroxyoxindole (AHO) induces systemic acquired resistance (SAR) in Nicotiana. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is not well understood. To understand the molecular regulation during SAR induction, we examined mRNA levels, microRNA (miRNA) expression, and their regulatory mechanisms in control and AHO-treated tobacco leaves. Using RNA-seq analysis, we identified 1,445 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at least 2 folds with AHO treatment. The DEGs significantly enriched in six metabolism pathways including phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, sesquiterpenoid and triterpenoid biosynthesis for protective cuticle and wax. Key DEGs including PALs and PR-10 in salicylic acid pathway involved in SAR were significantly regulated. In addition, we identified 403 miRNAs belonging to 200 miRNA families by miRNA sequencing. In total, AHO treatment led to 17 up- and 6 down-regulated at least 2 folds (Wald test, P < 0.05) miRNAs (DEMs), respectively. Targeting analysis implicated four DEMs regulating three DEGs involved in disease resistance, including miR156, miR172f, miR172g, miR408a, SPL6 and AP2. We concluded that both mRNA and miRNA regulation enhances AHO-induced SAR. These data regarding DEGs, miRNAs, and their regulatory mechanisms provide molecular evidence for the mechanisms involved in tobacco SAR, which are likely to be present in other plants.
A genome-wide structure-based survey of nucleotide binding proteins in M. tuberculosis
Authors: Bhagavat Raghu , Kim Heung-Bok , Kim Chang-Yub , Terwilliger Thomas C. , Mehta Dolly , Srinivasan Narayanaswamy , Chandra Nagasuma
Published: September 2017

Nucleoside tri-phosphates (NTP) form an important class of small molecule ligands that participate in, and are essential to a large number of biological processes. Here, we seek to identify the NTP binding proteome (NTPome) in M. tuberculosis (M.tb), a deadly pathogen. Identifying the NTPome is useful not only for gaining functional insights of the individual proteins but also for identifying useful drug targets. From an earlier study, we had structural models of M.tb at a proteome scale from which a set of 13,858 small molecule binding pockets were identified. We use a set of NTP binding sub-structural motifs derived from a previous study and scan the M.tb pocketome, and find that 1,768 proteins or 43% of the proteome can theoretically bind NTP ligands. Using an experimental proteomics approach involving dye-ligand affinity chromatography, we confirm NTP binding to 47 different proteins, of which 4 are hypothetical proteins. Our analysis also provides the precise list of binding site residues in each case, and the probable ligand binding pose. As the list includes a number of known and potential drug targets, the identification of NTP binding can directly facilitate structure-based drug design of these targets.
Stoichiometric plasticity of microbial communities is similar between litter and soil in a tropical rainforest
Authors: Fanin Nicolas , Fromin Nathalie , Barantal Sandra , Hättenschwiler Stephan
Published: September 2017

Heterotrophic microorganisms are commonly thought to be stoichiometrically homeostatic but their stoichiometric plasticity has rarely been examined, particularly in terrestrial ecosystems. Using a fertilization experiment in a tropical rainforest, we evaluated how variable substrate stoichiometry may influence the stoichiometry of microbial communities in the leaf litter layer and in the underlying soil. C:N:P ratios of the microbial biomass were higher in the organic litter layer than in the underlying mineral soil. Regardless of higher ratios for litter microbial communities, C, N, and P fertilization effects on microbial stoichiometry were strong in both litter and soil, without any fundamental difference in plasticity between these two communities. Overall, N:P ratios were more constrained than C:nutrient ratios for both litter and soil microbial communities, suggesting that stoichiometric plasticity arises because of a decoupling between C and nutrients. Contrary to the simplifying premise of strict homeostasis in microbial decomposers, we conclude that both litter and soil communities can adapt their C:N:P stoichiometry in response to the stoichiometric imbalance of available resources.
Multiple regulatory mechanisms of the biological function of NRF3 (NFE2L3) control cancer cell proliferation
Authors: Chowdhury A. M. Masudul Azad , Katoh Hiroki , Hatanaka Atsushi , Iwanari Hiroko , Nakamura Nanami , Hamakubo Takao , Natsume Tohru , Waku Tsuyoshi , Kobayashi Akira
Published: September 2017

Accumulated evidence suggests a physiological relationship between the transcription factor NRF3 (NFE2L3) and cancers. Under physiological conditions, NRF3 is repressed by its endoplasmic reticulum (ER) sequestration. In response to unidentified signals, NRF3 enters the nucleus and modulates gene expression. However, molecular mechanisms underlying the nuclear translocation of NRF3 and its target gene in cancer cells remain poorly understood. We herein report that multiple regulation of NRF3 activities controls cell proliferation. Our analyses reveal that under physiological conditions, NRF3 is rapidly degraded by the ER-associated degradation (ERAD) ubiquitin ligase HRD1 and valosin-containing protein (VCP) in the cytoplasm. Furthermore, NRF3 is also degraded by β-TRCP, an adaptor for the Skp1-Cul1-F-box protein (SCF) ubiquitin ligase in the nucleus. The nuclear translocation of NRF3 from the ER requires the aspartic protease DNA-damage inducible 1 homolog 2 (DDI2) but does not require inhibition of its HRD1-VCP-mediated degradation. Finally, NRF3 mediates gene expression of the cell cycle regulator U2AF homology motif kinase 1 (UHMK1) for cell proliferation. Collectively, our study provides us many insights into the molecular regulation and biological function of NRF3 in cancer cells.
Role of the Transforming Growth Factor-β in regulating hepatocellular carcinoma oxidative metabolism
Authors: Soukupova Jitka , Malfettone Andrea , Hyroššová Petra , Hernández-Alvarez María-Isabel , Peñuelas-Haro Irene , Bertran Esther , Junza Alexandra , Capellades Jordi , Giannelli Gianluigi , Yanes Oscar , Zorzano Antonio , Perales José Carlos , Fabregat Isabel
Published: September 2017

Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF-β) induces tumor cell migration and invasion. However, its role in inducing metabolic reprogramming is poorly understood. Here we analyzed the metabolic profile of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells that show differences in TGF-β expression. Oxygen consumption rate (OCR), extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), metabolomics and transcriptomics were performed. Results indicated that the switch from an epithelial to a mesenchymal/migratory phenotype in HCC cells is characterized by reduced mitochondrial respiration, without significant differences in glycolytic activity. Concomitantly, enhanced glutamine anaplerosis and biosynthetic use of TCA metabolites were proved through analysis of metabolite levels, as well as metabolic fluxes from U-13C6-Glucose and U-13C5-Glutamine. This correlated with increase in glutaminase 1 (GLS1) expression, whose inhibition reduced cell migration. Experiments where TGF-β function was activated with extracellular TGF-β1 or inhibited through TGF-β receptor I silencing showed that TGF-β induces a switch from oxidative metabolism, coincident with a decrease in OCR and the upregulation of glutamine transporter Solute Carrier Family 7 Member 5 (SLC7A5) and GLS1. TGF-β also regulated the expression of key genes involved in the flux of glycolytic intermediates and fatty acid metabolism. Together, these results indicate that autocrine activation of the TGF-β pathway regulates oxidative metabolism in HCC cells.
Levels of S100B protein drive the reparative process in acute muscle injury and muscular dystrophy
Authors: Riuzzi Francesca , Beccafico Sara , Sagheddu Roberta , Chiappalupi Sara , Giambanco Ileana , Bereshchenko Oxana , Riccardi Carlo , Sorci Guglielmo , Donato Rosario
Published: September 2017

Regeneration of injured skeletal muscles relies on a tightly controlled chain of cellular and molecular events. We show that appropriate levels of S100B protein are required for timely muscle regeneration after acute injury. S100B released from damaged myofibers and infiltrating macrophages expands the myoblast population, attracts macrophages and promotes their polarization into M2 (pro-regenerative) phenotype, and modulates collagen deposition, by interacting with RAGE (receptor for advanced glycation end-products) or FGFR1 (fibroblast growth factor receptor 1) depending on the muscle repair phase and local conditions. However, persistence of high S100B levels compromises the regeneration process prolonging myoblast proliferation and macrophage infiltration, delaying M1/M2 macrophage transition, and promoting deposition of fibrotic tissue via RAGE engagement. Interestingly, S100B is released in high abundance from degenerating muscles ofmdxmice, an animal model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and blocking S100B ameliorates histopathology. Thus, levels of S100B differentially affect skeletal muscle repair upon acute injury and in the context of muscular dystrophy, and S100B might be regarded as a potential molecular target in DMD.
Selective Homogeneous Assay for Circulating Endopeptidase Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP)
Authors: Bainbridge Travis W. , Dunshee Diana Ronai , Kljavin Noelyn M. , Skelton Nicholas J. , Sonoda Junichiro , Ernst James A.
Published: September 2017

Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP) is a membrane-bound serine protease whose expression is often elevated in activated fibroblasts associated with tissue remodeling in various common diseases such as cancer, arthritis and fibrosis. Like the closely related dipeptidyl peptidase DPPIV, the extracellular domain of FAP can be released into circulation as a functional enzyme, and limited studies suggest that the circulating level of FAP correlates with the degree of tissue fibrosis. Here we describe a novel homogeneous fluorescence intensity assay for circulating FAP activity based on a recently identified natural substrate, FGF21. This assay is unique in that it can effectively distinguish endopeptidase activity of FAP from that of other related enzymes such as prolyl endopeptidase (PREP) and was validated usingFap-deficient mice. Structural modeling was used to elucidate the mechanistic basis for the observed specificity in substrate recognition by FAP, but not by DPPIV or PREP. Finally, the assay was used to detect elevated FAP activity in human patients diagnosed with liver cirrhosis and to determine the effectiveness of a chemical inhibitor for FAP in mice. We propose that the assay presented here could thus be utilized for diagnosis of FAP-related pathologies and for the therapeutic development of FAP inhibitors.
A penalty on photosynthetic growth in fluctuating light
Authors: Graham Percival J. , Nguyen Brian , Burdyny Thomas , Sinton David
Published: September 2017

Fluctuating light is the norm for photosynthetic organisms, with a wide range of frequencies (0.00001 to 10 Hz) owing to diurnal cycles, cloud cover, canopy shifting and mixing; with broad implications for climate change, agriculture and bioproduct production. Photosynthetic growth in fluctuating light is generally considered to improve with increasing fluctuation frequency. Here we demonstrate that the regulation of photosynthesis imposes a penalty on growth in fluctuating light for frequencies in the range of 0.01 to 0.1 Hz (organisms studied:Synechococcus elongatusandChlamydomonas reinhardtii). We provide a comprehensive sweep of frequencies and duty cycles. In addition, we develop a 2ndorder model that identifies the source of the penalty to be the regulation of the Calvin cycle – present at all frequencies but compensated at high frequencies by slow kinetics of RuBisCO.
A moving story: Whole-body motor training selectively improves the appraisal of action meanings in naturalistic narratives
Authors: Trevisan Piergiorgio , Sedeño Lucas , Birba Agustina , Ibáñez Agustín , García Adolfo M.
Published: September 2017

This study examined whether systematic whole-body stimulation and increased attention to visuospatial motion patterns can enhance the appraisal of action meanings evoked by naturalistic texts. Participants listened to action and neutral (non-action) narratives before and after videogame-based bodily training, and responded to questions on information realized by verbs (denoting abstract and action processes) and circumstances (conveying locative or temporal details, for example). Strategically, we worked with dyslexic children, whose potential comprehension deficits could give room to post-training improvements. Results showed a selective boost in understanding of action information, even when controlling for baseline performance. Also, this effect proved uninfluenced by short-term memory skills, and it was absent when training relied on non-action videogames requiring minimal bodily engagement. Of note, the movements described in the texts did not match those performed by participants, suggesting that well-established effector- and direction-specific language embodiment effects may be accompanied by more coarse-grained sensorimotor resonance, driven by activation of motor and visuospatial sensory systems. In sum, the stimulation of movement-related mechanisms seems to selectively boost the appraisal of actions evoked by naturalistic texts. By demonstrating such links between two real-life activities, our study offers an empirical tie between embodied and situated accounts of cognition.
Reversible control of the magnetization of spinel ferrites based electrodes by lithium-ion migration
Authors: Wei Guodong , Wei Lin , Wang Dong , Chen Yanxue , Tian Yufeng , Yan Shishen , Mei Liangmo , Jiao Jun
Published: September 2017

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries based on spinel transition-metal oxide electrodes have exhibited excellent electrochemical performance. The reversible intercalation/deintercalation of Li-ions in spinel materials enables not only energy storage but also nondestructive control of the electrodes’ physical properties. This feature will benefit the fabrication of novel Li-ion controlled electronic devices. In this work, reversible control of ferromagnetism was realized by the guided motion of Li-ions in MnFe2O4 and γ-Fe2O3 utilizing miniature lithium-battery devices. The in-situ characterization of magnetization during the Li-ion intercalation/deintercalation process was conducted, and a reversible variation of saturation magnetization over 10% was observed in both these materials. The experimental conditions and material parameters for the control of the ferromagnetism are investigated, and the mechanism related to the magnetic ions’ migration and the exchange coupling evolution during this process was proposed. The different valence states of tetrahedral metal ions were suggested to be responsible for the different performance of these two spinel materials.
Kerogen Swelling and Confinement: Its implication on Fluid Thermodynamic Properties in Shales
Authors: Pathak Manas , Kweon Hyukmin , Deo Milind , Huang Hai
Published: September 2017

Type I kerogen was isolated from Green River Shale and characterized using SEM, TGA, DSC, and nitrogen adsorption. The swelling behavior of this kerogen with decane was analyzed using traditional test-tube swelling experiment and Dynamic Light Scattering. The TGA and DSC were used to analyze the thermodynamic behavior of decane that was sorbed in the kerogen and show that kerogen suppresses the boiling point of decane due to the effect of confinement. However, the suppression is larger when oil (a multicomponent mixture) was used, possibly due to the combined effect of differential uptake of components by kerogen (kerogen prefers and sorbs polars and aromatics more than saturates, leading to splitting of oil into a sorbed and a free phase) and confinement in nano pores. Test-tube swelling, TGA, and DSC experiments were also performed on pyridine(polar-aromatic)-swelled kerogen. The combined and individual contributions from the two effects (the effect of confinement and differential uptake of hydrocarbon components) on properties of liquid in contact with kerogen, are studied in this work. Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations revealed the variation in the swelling of type II kerogen in the presence of same amount of different liquids (differential swelling of kerogen).
Microscale Bioreactors for in situ characterization of GI epithelial cell physiology
Authors: Costello Cait M. , Phillipsen Mikkel B. , Hartmanis Leonard M. , Kwasnica Marek A. , Chen Victor , Hackam David , Chang Matthew W. , Bentley William E. , March John C.
Published: September 2017

The development of in vitro artificial small intestines that realistically mimic in vivo systems will enable vast improvement of our understanding of the human gut and its impact on human health. Synthetic in vitro models can control specific parameters, including (but not limited to) cell types, fluid flow, nutrient profiles and gaseous exchange. They are also “open” systems, enabling access to chemical and physiological information. In this work, we demonstrate the importance of gut surface topography and fluid flow dynamics which are shown to impact epithelial cell growth, proliferation and intestinal cell function. We have constructed a small intestinal bioreactor using 3-D printing and polymeric scaffolds that mimic the 3-D topography of the intestine and its fluid flow. Our results indicate that TEER measurements, which are typically high in static 2-D Transwell apparatuses, is lower in the presence of liquid sheer and 3-D topography compared to a flat scaffold and static conditions. There was also increased cell proliferation and discovered localized regions of elevated apoptosis, specifically at the tips of the villi, where there is highest sheer. Similarly, glucose was actively transported (as opposed to passive) and at higher rates under flow.
NMR window of molecular complexity showing homeostasis in superorganisms
Authors: Kikuchi Jun , Yamada Shunji
Published: September 2017

NMR offers tremendous advantages in the analyses of molecular complexity. The “big-data” are produced during the acquisition of fingerprints that must be stored and shared for posterior analysis and verifications.
Microelectrode generator–collector systems for electrolytic titration: theoretical and practical considerations
Authors: Bell Christopher G. , Seelanan Parinya , O'Hare Danny
Published: September 2017

A novel analysis of generator–collector devices is presented and applied to electrolytic acid–base titration.
A universal and enzyme-free immunoassay platform for biomarker detection based on gold nanoparticle enumeration with a dark-field microscope
Authors: Wu Xi , Li Tian , Tao Guangyu , Lin Ruoyun , Pei Xiaojing , Liu Feng , Li Na
Published: September 2017

We develop a universal and enzyme-free magnetic bead-based sandwich-format immunoassay platform for biomarker detection by combining secondary antibody functionalized AuNPs and automatic AuNP counting.
An exploding N-isocyanide reagent formally composed of anthracene, dinitrogen and a carbon atom
Authors: Joost Maximilian , Nava Matthew , Transue Wesley J. , Cummins Christopher C.
Published: September 2017

An anthracene-based N-isocyanide was synthesized and its reactivity studied. This sensitive compound was structurally characterized as a free species and as a ligand in a ruthenium complex, and underwent C-atom transfer upon treatment with an O-atom donor to evolve CO.
Bicarbazole-based redox-active covalent organic frameworks for ultrahigh-performance energy storage
Authors: Feng Shi , Xu Hong , Zhang Chong , Chen Yu , Zeng Jinghui , Jiang Donglin , Jiang Jia-Xing
Published: September 2017

Integration of redox-active bicarbazole units to the backbone of porous covalent organic frameworks reveals a synergistic structural effect on achieving ultrahigh-performance energy storage.
DFT study of the structure, chemical ordering and molecular adsorption of Pd–Ir nanoalloys
Authors: Fan Tian-E , Demiroglu Ilker , Hussein Heider A. , Liu Tun-Dong , Johnston Roy L.
Published: September 2017

The stability, chemical ordering and CO adsorption properties of Pd–Ir nanoalloys are studied at the DFT level.
Surface induced smectic order in ionic liquids – an X-ray reflectivity study of [C22C1im]+[NTf2]−
Authors: Mars Julian , Hou Binyang , Weiss Henning , Li Hailong , Konovalov Oleg , Festersen Sven , Murphy Bridget M. , Rütt Uta , Bier Markus , Mezger Markus
Published: September 2017

Surface induced smectic order has been observed in the ionic liquid [C22C1im]+[NTf2] over an extremely wide temperature range of 88 K.
Correlation between the structural change and the electrical transport properties of indium nitride under high pressure
Authors: Zhang Junkai , Qi Ji , Ma Yanzhang , Hu Tingjing , Yan Jiejuan , Ke Feng , Cui Xiaoyan , Gao Yang , Sun Meiling , Gao Chunxiao
Published: September 2017

Pressure realized modulation of electrical performance and the direct-indirect gap transformation of InN during the wurtzite–rocksalt structural transition.
Sensitive analysis of reduced glutathione in bacteria and HaCaT cells by capillary electrophoresis via online pre-concentration of transient trapping combined with the dynamic pH junction mode
Authors: Zhang Yan , Chen Wujuan , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yating , Zhu Luqi , He Pingang , Wang Qingjiang
Published: September 2017

A new method of capillary electrophoresis was developed for the sensitive determination of glutathione in biological samples.
Design, synthesis, and characterisation of glyoxylamide-based short peptides as self-assembled gels
Authors: Aldilla Vina R. , Nizalapur Shashidhar , Martin Adam , Marjo Chris E. , Rich Anne , Yee Eugene , Suwannakot Panthipa , Black David StC. , Thordarson Pall , Kumar Naresh
Published: September 2017

First example of glyoxylamide-based short peptides which can encapsulate organic solvents and water at relatively low concentrations.
Guest induced hysteretic tristability in 3D pillared Hofmann-type microporous metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Polyzou C. D. , Lalioti N. , Psycharis V. , Tangoulis V.
Published: September 2017

Hofmann-type SCO coordination polymers with the formula {Fe(C4H4N2)[M(CN)4]}·(C4H4N2)·1.2H2O, where M = Pt(ii), Pd(ii) displaying well-resolved hysteretic multistep thermally induced spin transition.
Luminescent hybrid composites based on the intercalation of Eu(iii) complexes into α-zirconium phosphate nanoplatelets: preparation, characterization and amine sensing
Authors: Li Yali , Wang Tianren , Yang Daqing , Wang Yige , Li Huanrong
Published: September 2017

A direct ion-exchange approach was adopted to intercalate ionic lanthanide complexes into layered α-zirconium phosphate.
Self-assembly synthesis of nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbons used as high-performance electrode materials in lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors
Authors: Shao Chunfeng , Wang Ziqiang , Wang Errui , Qiu Shujun , Chu Hailiang , Zou Yongjing , Xiang Cuili , Xu Fen , Sun Lixian
Published: September 2017

Guanine was, for the first time, used as a nitrogen source during the synthesis of nitrogen-doped porous carbons (NMCs) with enhanced electrochemical performance.
Evolution of the formation of a covalent triazine-based framework catalyzed by p-toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate
Authors: Li Zheng , Han Yue , Guo Ying , Xu Shuangshuang , Chen Fenghua , Ye Li , Luo Zhenhua , Liu Xiang , Zhou Heng , Zhao Tong
Published: September 2017

A highly porous CTF-1 was prepared using an organic acid with medium acidity as the catalyst and the evolution of the crystalline structure throughout the catalyzed route was studied.
A comparative study of microbial dynamics and phosphorus removal for a two side-stream wastewater treatment processes
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Islam Md. Shahinoor , McPhedran Kerry N. , Dong Shimiao , Rashed Ehab M. , El-Shafei Maha M. , Noureldin Ahmed M. , Gamal El-Din Mohamed
Published: September 2017

A side-stream process with anoxic/aerobic tanks was designed as a denitrifying enhanced biological phosphorus removal process for wastewater treatment as compared to a modified side-stream process using contact/stabilization tanks.
Facile synthesis of visible-light-driven Cu2O/BiVO4 composites for the photomineralization of recalcitrant pesticides
Authors: Aguilera-Ruiz E. , de la Garza-Galván M. , Zambrano-Robledo P. , Ballesteros-Pacheco J. C. , Vazquez-Arenas J. , Peral J. , García-Pérez U. M.
Published: September 2017

In the present study, a facile synthesis of visible-light-driven Cu2O/BiVO4 composites, with different Cu2O co-catalysts, towards to the mineralization of 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) in aqueous media is reported.
Seed geometry and hydrogen bonding dependent plasmonic tuning of silver nanocrystals in a citrate–hydrazine matrix and SERS spectroscopic detection of chromium
Authors: Pattanayak Satarupa , Swarnkar Abhishek , Paik Pradip , Priyam Amiya
Published: September 2017

Red-shift and blue-shift in the plasmon wavelength has been observed depending on the seed geometry. Further, these Ag nanocrystals have been used to develop a SERS-spectroscopic method for enhanced detection of chromium upto a limit of 30 ppb.
New D–π–A dyes incorporating dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]pyrrole (DTP)-based π-spacers for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Jia Jingwen , Chen Yu , Duan Liangsheng , Sun Zhe , Liang Mao , Xue Song
Published: September 2017

Bulky substituents on the N-position of the DTP spacer optimize the photovoltaic performances of DSSCs.
Binding behaviors and structural characteristics of ternary complexes of β-lactoglobulin, curcumin, and fatty acids
Authors: Liu Jingwen , Jiang Lun , Zhang Yunyue , Du Zhongyao , Qiu Xiaoxia , Kong Lingyan , Zhang Hao
Published: September 2017

This study clarified the interaction mechanism and structural characteristics of ternary complexes of β-lactoglobulin, curcumin, and fatty acids.
A one-pot hydrothermal synthesis of graphene/CdS:Mn photocatalyst for photoelectrochemical sensing of glutathione
Authors: Ye Huili , Wang Hao , Zhao Faqiong , Zeng Baizhao
Published: September 2017

The GR/CdS:Mn composite was fabricated by a simple hydrothermal synthesis which illustrates excellent performance for the photoelectrochemical detection of glutathione.
ZnO as a cheap and effective filler for high breakdown strength elastomers
Authors: Yu Liyun , Skov Anne Ladegaard
Published: September 2017

Cheap, high-performance dielectric elastomers are in high demand from industry concerning new products based on dielectric elastomer transducers.
Qualitative characterization of solid residue from hydrothermal liquefaction of biomass using thermochemolysis and stepwise pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Madsen René B. , Jensen Mads M. , Glasius Marianne
Published: September 2017

Hydrothermal liquefaction of biomass produces solid residue (char) as an unwanted byproduct, which was characterized using advanced techniques in order to understand its composition and formation reactions.
Diverse cellular actions of tert-butylhydroquinone, a food additive, on rat thymocytes
Authors: Kamemura Norio , Oyama Keisuke , Kanemaru Kaori , Yokoigawa Kumio , Oyama Yasuo
Published: September 2017

Tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) is a food additive that possesses antioxidant activity.
Flexible unbalance compensation strategy for doubly fed induction generator based on a novel indirect virtual impedance method
Authors: Wang Tao , Nian Heng , Zhu Ziqiang
Published: September 2017

This study presents a flexible unbalance compensation strategy for doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)‐based wind power generation system connected to an unbalanced weak grid, which can achieve flexible trade‐off between the two common control targets, i.e. the balanced output current of DFIG and the balanced voltage at the point of common coupling (PCC), thus the operation performance of DFIG and the power quality at PCC can be considered comprehensively. In order to achieve this target, a novel indirect virtual impedance (IVI) method is proposed, which can control the negative sequence output impedance (NSOI) of the DFIG from zero to infinity. The advantage of the proposed IVI method is to solve the drawback of the traditional virtual impedance method, i.e. the open‐loop gains for the system disturbances are highly related with the required virtual impedance, which may introduce oscillation during dynamic periods or even risk the system stability when the required NSOI is large. Meanwhile, the sequential decomposition of the voltage or the current can be avoided in the proposed strategy. The compensation performance and the system stability are theoretically investigated. The availability and advantages of the proposed flexible unbalance compensation strategy are verified by experimental results.
Palladium-Catalyzed Decarboxylation of Benzyl Fluorobenzoates
Authors: Kuwano Ryoichi , Makida Yusuke , Matsumoto Yasutaka
Published: September 2017

The decarboxylation of benzyl fluorobenzoates has been developed by using the palladium catalyst prepared in situ from Pd(η3-allyl)Cp and bulky monophosphine ligand XPhos. The catalytic reaction afforded a range of fluorinated diarylmethanes in good yields with broad functional-group compatibility. The substrates were readily synthesized by condensation of the corresponding benzoic acid with benzyl alcohol. Therefore, the transformation is formally regarded as a cross-coupling reaction between fluorine-containing benzoic acids and benzyl alcohols.
Scalable Synthesis of Hydrido-Disiloxanes from Silanes: A One-Pot Preparation of 1,3-Diphenyldisiloxane from Phenylsilane
Authors: Aldrich Courtney , Buonomo Joseph , Eiden Carter
Published: September 2017

A simple, one-pot, and high-yielding synthesis of 1,3-diphenyldisiloxane is presented. The preparation of similar symmetrical disiloxane materials is also accomplished with this same protocol. This mechano-chemical procedure is efficient and highly scalable, furnishing a convenient route to hydrido-disiloxanes from widely accessible commercially available silanes.
Recent Advances in Transition-Metal-Free Aryl C–B Bond Formation
Authors: Meng Ge , Li Pengfei , Chen Kai , Wang Linghua
Published: September 2017

Arylboronic acids and their derivatives are widely used in organic synthesis. Conventional methods for their preparation require either reactive organometallic reagents or transition-metal-mediated processes. In recent years, transition-metal-free reactions for aryl C–B bond formation that obviate preformed organometallic reagents have gained interest and have developed rapidly. These new reactions have shown significant advantages for the preparation of functionalized molecules. In this review, an overview of the recent advances in transition-metal-free aromatic borylation reactions is provided.

1 Introduction

2 Transition-Metal-Free Transformations of CAr–N Bonds to CAr–B Bonds

3 Transition-Metal-Free Transformations of CAr–X Bonds to CAr–B Bonds

4 Transition-Metal-Free Transformations of CAr–H Bonds to CAr–B Bonds

5 Conclusion
Synthesis of 6-Thiocyanatophenanthridines by Visible-Light- and Air-Promoted Radical Thiocyanation of 2-Isocyanobiphenyls
Authors: Singh Manjula , Yadav Arvind , Yadav Lal , Singh R.
Published: September 2017

A convenient, efficient, and metal-free synthesis of 6-thiocyanatophenanthridines by visible-light- and air-mediated, eosin Y-catalyzed, sequential radical cyclization and aromatization of 2-isocyanobiphenyls with ammonium thiocyanate is reported. Advantageously, the protocol utilizes inexpensive, clean, and sustainable natural resources such as visible light and atmospheric oxygen at room temperature in a one-pot procedure.
‘I Would Like to be a Healthy Egoist’: A Case of Ceratostigma willmottiana
Authors: Collins Deborah
Published: September 2017

This is the case of a woman suffering from depression and burnout, dating back to a childhood where she felt that she had to put all her own desires and ambitions aside due to the family situation: a drunken father and a mother who cared for him but had little time for her children. It was only with the help of the Plant theory that a suitable remedy was found.
Resolving the Rift between High Culture and Instinct: Bergenia ciliata
Authors: Begin Marty
Published: September 2017

The case of a 34-year-old mother and naturopath progresses in a deeper way after applying Jan Scholten's plant system to arrive at Bergenia ciliata. The patient is able to integrate and solve her conflict between her intuitive and rational sides, which for her parallels her struggle to be herself in high mainstream society.
Migraine and the Scope of Homeopathy
Authors: Wandile Pranali
Published: September 2017

Migraine is usually a genetic disorder. In the United States, every 10 seconds someone with a migraine goes to the emergency room. Approximately 1.2 million annual visits to the emergency room occur due to acute migraine attacks. About 90% of migraine patients have a family history of this illness. More than 90% of sufferers are unable to work or function normally during their migraine episode, affecting their quality of life and medical expenditure. While the majority of patients experience attacks once or twice a month, more than four million people suffer due to a chronic migraine with at least 15 migraine days per month. Migraine is often undiagnosed and undertreated and remains a poorly understood disease. In spite of the high prevalence of migraine and its effects on patients, research into migraine is still underfunded. In this article, the author reviewed facts about migraine, the best possible suggested treatments and the scope of homeopathy for its treatment. More research and clinical trials with improved trial designs are warranted. Publications of large numbers of homeopathic case studies worldwide, long-term observational studies of treated migraine patients having no further migraine recurrences are needed to see the role of homeopathy for the complete cure.
Síndrome del túnel radial. Epicondilitis resistente
Authors: Pérez C. , Ferrero M. A.
Published: September 2017

Desde 1996 a 2003, 25 pacientes (26 extremidades) fueron intervenidos de síndrome del túnel radial. Todos los procedimientos fueron realizados por el mismo cirujano y en el mismo hospital realizando un abordaje postero-externo del túnel radial.

Se realizó un seguimiento de todos los pacientes en el tiempo después de la cirugía de 4 meses a 6 años y 4 meses (tiempo medio de 22 meses).

Los resultados fueron evaluados según los criterios de Roles y Mausdley; 12 pacientes tuvieron resultados excelentes (45,15%), 9 pacientes buenos (34,61%) y 5 pacientes regulares (19,23%).

11 pacientes fueron tratados previamente de epicondilitis lateral (entesitis).

La mayoría de los pacientes están satisfechos con la cirugía refiriendo un alivio de la sintomatología y una mejora de la funcionalidad tras la cirugía.
Artroplastia estabilizadora y de interposición para artrodesis previa de la articulación trapecio-metacarpiana del pulgar
Authors: De Santolo R. , Ortiz Magalli , Briceño Leonardo , Cevedo R T. O.
Published: September 2017

La articulación carpometacarpiana o trapecio-metacarpiana del pulgar es la más importante para las diferentes pinzas. Su artrodesis fue realizada en el pasado frecuentemente, pero ella deja como residuo una severa incapacidad funcional. Con los avances actuales de los modernos procedimientos quirúrgicos, la artrodesis de la trapecio-metacarpiana estaría inclinada sólo en casos excepcionales.

Presentamos el resultado de 8 pacientes con artrodesis de la trapecio-metacarpiana realizadas en otras instituciones, nosotros las convertimos en artroplastias estabilizadoras y de interposición con excelentes o buenos resultados, 5 de ellos fueron artrodesados por secuelas de fracturas y 3 por Rizoartrosis. La edad de los pacientes osciló entre 37 y 59 años con promedio de 43, ninguno de los pacientes tenía un trabajo exigente o manual.

El programa de Rehabilitación es muy importante para obtener excelentes o buenos resultados, en 3 obtuvimos excelentes resultados, 2 buenos y 1 regular, según la escala de EATON, sólo con 3 complicaciones.

Son nuestras conclusiones que la conversión de una artrodesis en artroplastia en la base del pulgar es muy satisfactoria, el paciente lo agradece mucho porque le disminuye la incapacidad, le elimina el dolor y deja una trapecio-metacarpiana muy estable por la reconstrucción de su ligamento más importante, con unos de los tendones del Abductor largo del pulgar (digástrico), interponiendo alrededor de éste la cápsula articular.
Remodelación ósea tras el tratamiento quirúrgico del quiste óseo aneurismático de localización metacarpiana en el niño
Authors: Soldado-Carrera F. , de la Fuente J.P. , Arce A. , Canyadell M.
Published: September 2017

El quiste óseo aneurismático localizado en la mano es poco frecuente.

No se ha descrito su incidencia real en la infancia, ni la influencia que sobre la evolución del tumor puede tener la presencia de cartílagos de crecimiento abiertos.

La remodelación ósea permite que el hueso cambie de forma (“reshaping”) o sea sustituido después de una lesión.

Presentamos el caso de un QOA localizado en el cuarto metacarpiano de la mano derecha en una niña de 5 años de edad. Fue intervenida y a los nueve años de seguimiento se objetivó una remodelación tubular completa del metacarpiano. La eliminación del factor lesivo y la presencia de cartílagos de crecimiento abiertos ha permitido la retubulización.
„Nur“ palliativ? Therapie mit Kortison und Sulfur bei einer atopisch-psorischen Patientin
Authors: Gnaiger-Rathmanner Jutta
Published: September 2017

Eine Patientin mit schwerer Atopie unterzieht sich aus eigener Initiative teils gleichzeitig, teils phasenverschoben der Kortisontherapie sowie der Homöopathie, vor allem mit Sulfur. Es lassen sich dabei alle bekannten Phänomene einer chronischen Erkrankung unter den Aspekten von Psora, Suppression, Organwechsel, Palliativbehandlung und regulativen Therapieerfolgen auffinden. Es stellen sich daran viele Fragen zur modernen Therapiesituation in unseren Praxen.
Urinary Incontinence in Physically Active Young Women: Prevalence and Related Factors
Authors: Alves Jessica , Luz Soraia , Brandão Sofia , Da Luz Clarissa , Jorge Renato , Da Roza Thuane
Published: September 2017

This cross-sectional survey aims to (1) verify the prevalence of urinary incontinence and its impact on the quality of life among nulliparous fit women, and to (2) analyze whether urinary incontinence is influenced by the intensity of the sport (high- vs. low-impact) or by the volume of physical activity (minutes per week) performed. Two hundred forty-five nulliparous women (18–40 years) completed the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form, the Kings Health Questionnaire and a questionnaire regarding demographic and training variables. Overall 22.9% of the participants self-reported urinary incontinence, and among them, 60.7% had stress urinary incontinence. Incontinent women demonstrated worse quality of life than continent females (p=0.000). Women practicing high-impact sports presented higher frequency in loss of urine than those practicing low-impact sports (p=0.004). Regardless the intensity of the sport, the volume of exercise showed positive association with the frequency of loss of urine (p=0.005, r=0.475). In conclusion, almost one fourth of the women enrolled in this study reported symptoms of urinary incontinence and worse quality of life than those who were continent. Women who practice high-impact sports or who have higher volume of training should be aware of the symptoms associated with pelvic floor dysfunction, since they seem to predispose to urine leakage.
Die Palliation bei Schmerzen und postoperativen Folgezuständen
Authors: Friedrich Uwe
Published: September 2017

Die homöopathische Schmerzbehandlung gelingt durch das Simile im Rahmen eines kurativen Ansatzes und mit homöopathischen Mitteln, die allein durch die Schmerzsymptomatik bestimmt werden und damit meist „nur“ palliativ wirken. Mittelfindung, Symptome und Dosierung unter besonderer Berücksichtigung von Krebsschmerzen werden dargestellt.

Außerdem wird an 2 Fällen gezeigt, wie palliative homöopathische Mittel iatrogene anatomische Defekte mit ihren Folgebeschwerden günstig beeinflussen können.
Die Charakteristika von Allium cepa
Authors: Thoma Christian
Published: September 2017

Für den Vergleich der charakteristischen Patientensymptome mit den charakteristischen Arzneisymptomen ist eine verlässliche primäre Materia medica erforderlich. Anhand der neu revidierten Allium-cepa-Monografie werden die Charakteristika der Arznei dargestellt. Weiters wird diskutiert, wie Charakteristika einer Arznei zu ermitteln sind.
Diagnostic Accuracy of an MRI Protocol of the Knee Accelerated Through Parallel Imaging in Correlation to Arthroscopy
Authors: Schnaiter Johannes , Roemer Frank , McKenna-Kuettner Axel , Patzak Hans-Joachim , May Matthias , Janka Rolf , Uder Michael , Wuest Wolfgang
Published: September 2017

Purpose Parallel imaging allows for a considerable shortening of examination times. Limited data is available about the diagnostic accuracy of an accelerated knee MRI protocol based on parallel imaging evaluating all knee joint compartments in a large patient population compared to arthroscopy.

Materials and Methods 162 consecutive patients with a knee MRI (1.5 T, Siemens Aera) and arthroscopy were included. The total MRI scan time was less than 9 minutes. Meniscus and cartilage injuries, cruciate ligament lesions, loose joint bodies and medial patellar plicae were evaluated. Sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV), as well as diagnostic accuracy were determined.

Results For the medial meniscus, the values were: SE 97 %, SP 88 %, PPV 94 %, and NPV 94 %. For the lateral meniscus the values were: SE 77 %, SP 99 %, PPV 98 %, and NPV 89 %. For cartilage injuries the values were: SE 72 %, SP 80 %, PPV 86 %, and NPV 61 %. For the anterior cruciate ligament the values were: SE 90 %, SP 94 %, PPV 77 %, and NPV 98 %, while all values were 100 % for the posterior cruciate ligament. For loose bodies the values were: SE 48 %, SP 96 %, PPV 62 %, and NPV 93 %, and for the medial patellar plicae the values were: SE 57 %, SP 88 %, PPV 18 %, and NPV 98 %.

Conclusion A knee MRI examination with parallel imaging and a scan time of less than 9 minutes delivers reliable results with high diagnostic accuracy.

Key Points 

Citation Format
Ab initio calculations of spectroscopic constants and vibrational state lifetimes of diatomic alkali-alkaline-earth cations
Authors: Fedorov Dmitry A. , Barnes Dustin K. , Varganov Sergey A.
Published: September 2017

We investigate the lifetimes of vibrational states of diatomic alkali-alkaline-earth cations to determine their suitability for ultracold experiments where long decoherence time and controllability by an external electric field are desirable. The potential energy and permanent dipole moment curves for the ground electronic states of LiBe+, LiMg+, NaBe+, and NaMg+ are obtained using the coupled cluster with singles doubles and triples and multireference configuration interaction methods in combination with large all-electron cc-pCVQZ and aug-cc-pCV5Z basis sets. The energies and wave functions of all vibrational states are obtained by solving the Schrödinger equation for nuclei with the B-spline basis set method. To predict the lifetimes of vibrational states, the transition dipole moments, as well as the Einstein coefficients describing spontaneous emission, and the stimulated absorption and emission induced by black body radiation are calculated. Surprisingly, in all studied ions, the lifetimes of the highest excited vibrational states are similar to the lifetimes of the ground vibrational states indicating that highly vibrationally excited ions could be useful for the ultracold experiments requiring long decoherence time.