bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Cyclopentadithiophene Heterofulvenes: Design Tools for Light‐Activated Processes
Authors: El Nahhas Amal , Shameem Muhammad Anwar , Chabera Pavel , Uhlig Jens , Orthaber Andreas
Published: March 2017

The development of new materials for solar‐to‐energy conversion should consider stability, ease of fabrication, and beneficial photophysical properties. In this context, a set of novel π‐conjugated building blocks, with phospha‐ and arsaalkenes possessing a unique dithienyl annulated heterofulvenoid core, have been prepared as air‐ and moisture‐stable sensitizers. These compounds unify electron‐donor and ‐acceptor moieties, making them potential candidates for light‐harvesting applications. Optical characterization of these systems was performed by steady‐state and time‐resolved absorption spectroscopy, supported by time‐dependent DFT calculations. Tuning of the optical properties of these systems can be achieved by varying the pnictogen element at the bridgehead position, giving a bathochromic shift of ≈40 nm and coordinating the phosphaalkene towards gold AuI centers. The latter results in a ≈2000‐fold extension of the ≈10 ps lifetime of uncoordinated systems well into the ns regime.
Mesoporous TS‐1 Nanocrystals as Low Cost and High Performance Catalysts for Epoxidation of Styrene
Authors: Cui Tian‐Lu , Li Xin‐Hao , Chen Jie‐Sheng
Published: March 2017

Mesoporous TS‐1 nanocrystals were facilely synthesized without involving additional templates. The usage of inorganic silicon source, less structure‐directing agent and high yields of nearly 100% made this template‐free strategy suitable for large‐scale synthesis with low cost. Furthermore, the as synthesized TS‐1 exhibited comparable epoxidation performance than those obtained by other methods.
Silver‐Catalyzed Cascade Radical Cyclization for Stereoselective Synthesis of Exocyclic Phosphine Oxides
Authors: Mao Liuliang , Li Yonghong , Yang Shangdong
Published: March 2017

A silver‐catalyzed phosphorylation/cyclization radical cascade of 1,6‐dienes has been developed. The reaction process involves in a one‐pot operation described as an autotandem catalytic process with a cascading radical cyclization for the construction of C—P and C—C bond with high stereoselectivity. Moreover, it also affords an efficient method for the synthesis of valuable exocyclic phosphine oxides compounds with broad substrate applicability, mild reaction condition and succinct reaction system.
Advances in Radical Oxidative C—H Alkylation of N‐Heteroarenes
Authors: Zhang Jun‐Rong , Xu Li , Liao Yan‐Yan , Deng Jian‐Chao , Tang Ri‐Yuan
Published: March 2017

This review summarizes recent development in C—H alkylation of N‐heteroarenes via the radical oxidative coupling process. A variety of alkyl radical sources (including alkanes, ethers, alcohols, carboxylic acids, organoboranes, and some other alkane derivatives) for C—H alkylation of N‐heteroarenes are reviewed.
Synthesis and Photocatalytic Activity of La5Ti2Cu(S1−xSex)5O7 Solid Solutions for H2 Production under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Nandy Swarnava , Goto Yosuke , Hisatomi Takashi , Moriya Yosuke , Minegishi Tsutomu , Katayama Masao , Domen Kazunari
Published: March 2017

The effects of substituting selenide for sulfide ions in La5Ti2CuS5O7 were studied, with the aim of developing visible‐light‐driven photocatalysts with longer absorption edge wavelengths. La5Ti2Cu(S1−xSex)5O7 (LTCS1−xSexO) solid solutions were obtained over the composition range of 0≤x≤1 by a solid‐state reaction, and their physical properties and photocatalytic activities during the H2 evolution reaction in aqueous solutions were assessed. Structural refinements revealed that the lattice constants and cell volumes of the LTCS1−xSexO series follow Vegards’ law. With increases in the Se2− content, the LTCS1−xSexO absorption edge shifts monotonically toward longer wavelengths, to a maximum of 820 nm for LTCSeO (x=1). Those materials for which x≤0.8 generated H2 from aqueous solutions containing Na2S and Na2SO3 as electron donors under visible‐light irradiation (λ>420 nm) after surface modification with in situ precipitated NiS. Comparatively higher H2 evolution was observed for LTCS1−xSexO with lower Se2− levels, although the sample for which x=0.2 generated H2 under visible light at wavelengths longer than 640 nm, whereas the LTCSO did not.
Context‐dependent individual differences in playfulness in male rats
Authors: Lampe Jessica F. , Burman Oliver , Würbel Hanno , Melotti Luca
Published: March 2017

Play has been proposed as an indicator of positive emotions and welfare in higher vertebrates. This study investigated playfulness in male rats by exploring its consistency across motivational states (with/without prior short social isolation) and two age points at early and late adolescence. Twenty‐four male Lister Hooded rats housed in cages of four underwent two play tests: conspecific Play‐in‐Pairs and Tickling by the experimenter, which were compared with play in the home cage and basal anxiety levels. Play‐in‐Pairs measures were consistent across age and motivational states, and were independent from anxiety. Positively valenced vocalizations in the Tickling test were also consistent across age, yet were negatively related to anxiety. Play‐in‐Pairs and Tickling play contexts, as well as social and solitary play types, were unrelated. Therefore, this study supports the existence of consistent individual differences in playfulness in rats, and suggests that different play contexts and types represent motivationally distinct systems.
Volume and density of microglomeruli in the honey bee mushroom bodies do not predict performance on a foraging task
Authors: Van Nest Byron N. , Wagner Ashley E. , Marrs Glen S. , Fahrbach Susan E.
Published: March 2017

The mushroom bodies (MBs) are insect brain regions important for sensory integration, learning, and memory. In adult worker honey bees (Apis mellifera), the volume of neuropil associated with the MBs is larger in experienced foragers compared with hive bees and less experienced foragers. In addition, the characteristic synaptic structures of the calycal neuropils, the microglomeruli, are larger but present at lower density in 35‐day‐old foragers relative to 1‐day‐old workers. Age‐ and experience‐based changes in plasticity of the MBs are assumed to support performance of challenging tasks, but the behavioral consequences of brain plasticity in insects are rarely examined. In this study, foragers were recruited from a field hive to a patch comprising two colors of otherwise identical artificial flowers. Flowers of one color contained a sucrose reward mimicking nectar; flowers of the second were empty. Task difficulty was adjusted by changing flower colors according to the principle of honey bee color vision space. Microglomerular volume and density in the lip (olfactory inputs) and collar (visual inputs) compartments of the MB calyces were analyzed using anti‐synapsin I immunolabeling and laser scanning confocal microscopy. Foragers displayed significant variation in microglomerular volume and density, but no correlation was found between these synaptic attributes and foraging performance. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 1057–1071, 2017
Seasonal patterns in reproductive success of temperate‐breeding birds: Experimental tests of the date and quality hypotheses
Authors: Harriman Vanessa B. , Dawson Russell D. , Bortolotti Lauren E. , Clark Robert G.
Published: March 2017

For organisms in seasonal environments, individuals that breed earlier in the season regularly attain higher fitness than their late‐breeding counterparts. Two primary hypotheses have been proposed to explain these patterns: The quality hypothesis contends that early breeders are of better phenotypic quality or breed on higher quality territories, whereas the date hypothesis predicts that seasonally declining reproductive success is a response to a seasonal deterioration in environmental quality. In birds, food availability is thought to drive deteriorating environmental conditions, but few experimental studies have demonstrated its importance while also controlling for parental quality. We tested predictions of the date hypothesis in tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) over two breeding seasons and in two locations within their breeding range in Canada. Nests were paired by clutch initiation date to control for parental quality, and we delayed the hatching date of one nest within each pair. Subsequently, brood sizes were manipulated to mimic changes in per capita food abundance, and we examined the effects of manipulations, as well as indices of environmental and parental quality, on nestling quality, fledging success, and return rates. Reduced reproductive success of late‐breeding individuals was causally related to a seasonal decline in environmental quality. Declining insect biomass and enlarged brood sizes resulted in nestlings that were lighter, in poorer body condition, structurally smaller, had shorter and slower growing flight feathers and were less likely to survive to fledge. Our results provide evidence for the importance of food resources in mediating seasonal declines in offspring quality and survival.
Copper‐Mediated [(Diethylphosphono)difluoromethyl]thiolation of α‐Bromo Ketones
Authors: Ivanova Maria V. , Bayle Alexandre , Besset Tatiana , Pannecoucke Xavier , Poisson Thomas
Published: March 2017

We report herein a straightforward access to α‐[(diethoxyphosphoryl)difluoromethyl]thiolated ketones. The methodology, which involves the nucleophilic [Cu]CF2PO(OEt)2 species, has allowed the formation of the targeted compounds in moderate to high yields by using a simple procedure. This method represents a convenient alternative to the known approaches for the introduction of this emergent fluorinated motif.
Apathy dimensions in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Radakovic Ratko , Davenport Richard , Starr John M. , Abrahams Sharon
Published: March 2017

Objective

Apathy is a prominent and disabling symptom in Parkinson's disease (PD) and is a multidimensional behaviour, but which dimensions are specifically affected is unclear. Therefore, the aim of this preliminary study was to determine the psychometric properties of the Dimensional Apathy Scale (DAS) and explore the multidimensional profile of apathy in PD patients.

Methods

Thirty‐four PD patients, with 30 of their informants/carers, and 34 healthy controls, with 30 of their informants, completed the DAS, Apathy Evaluation Scale and the Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form. Motor staging and independent living status were recorded.

Results

Comparative group analyses revealed that PD patients were significantly more apathetic on self‐rated executive (p = 0.01) and initiation (p = 0.03) dimensions than controls, where only executive apathy was significantly higher in ratings of patients' informants/carers compared with controls' informants (p = 0.02). A third of patients were impaired on at least one apathy dimension. Additionally, patients with apathy tended to have more impaired activities of daily living, while none of the apathy dimensions related to motor disability.

Conclusion

Our findings show the DAS is a valid and reliable multidimensional apathy tool for use in PD. PD is characterised by an executive apathy profile as determined by informants/carers, although patients described both executive and initiation apathy. This indicates a lack of motivation for planning, organisation and attention and lack of initiation of thoughts or behaviours. Further research is needed to determine the cognitive underpinnings of this emerging apathy profile and the clinical impact in PD. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Trifluoromethyl Anion: Evidence for [K(crypt‐222)]+
Authors: Miloserdov Fedor M. , Konovalov Andrey I. , Martin Eddy , Benet‐Buchholz Jordi , Escudero‐Adán Eduardo C. , Lishchynskyi Anton , Grushin Vladimir V.
Published: March 2017

[K(crypt‐222)]+ (1) and [K(crypt‐222)]+ (3) are isostructural, displaying nearly identical unit cell parameters. The two structures are similar to the extent that the previously reported [K(crypt‐222)]+ model can be refined against the new data for [K(crypt‐222)]+ , with extra electron density being observed from the fourth fluorine atom of the . In agreement with experimental observations, theoretical calculations suggest that deprotonated [K(crypt‐222)]+ is highly unstable even at as low as 195 K. The previously considered 1:1 CHF3 clathrate of deprotonated [K(crypt‐222)]+ (crystallographically indistinguishable from 1) is ruled out on the basis of all available data.
Application of BOLD MRI and DTI for the evaluation of renal effect related to viscosity of iodinated contrast agent in a rat model
Authors: Wang Yi , Ren Ke , Liu Yi , Sun Wen‐ge , Wang Jia‐huan , Zhang Xin , Wu Cheng‐hua
Published: March 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of viscosity of contrast agent (CA) on intrarenal oxygenation and diffusion as measured by blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in a rat model.

Materials and Methods

Radiocontrast iodixanol formulated in three viscosities were designated 270, 320, and 350 (mg iodine/mL). Sixty‐three male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Saline and iodixanol (4 g iodine/kg) were administered. MR images were acquired on a 3.0T scanner at baseline and at 1 hour, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours postinjection of solutions. BOLD‐MRI was performed with a multiple gradient‐recalled‐echo sequence. The changes in R2*, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), fractional anisotropy (FA), histology, and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) immunoexpression were evaluated. The R2*, ADC, and FA values were normalized to baseline to calculate ΔR2*, ΔADC, and ΔFA.

Results

Compared with baseline levels, distinct elevation of ΔR2* (P < 0.05) and obvious decrease in ΔADC (P < 0.01) and ΔFA (P < 0.05) were observed in all the anatomical compartments at 1 hour after administration of CA. The absolute values in ΔR2*, ΔADC, and ΔFA increased with increases in CA viscosity, and differed significantly between the CA groups in renal cortex (CO), outer stripe of outer medulla (OSOM), and inner stripe of outer medulla (ISOM) (all P < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was observed between ΔR2* and HIF‐1α expression (P < 0.001, r = 0.75). Significant negative correlations were observed between ΔADC, ΔFA, and pathologies in CO, OSOM, ISOM (all P < 0.001, r = –0.68–0.87; all P < 0.001, r = –0.60–0.66).

Conclusion

The effect of CA viscosity on intrarenal oxygenation and diffusion was viscosity‐dependent, and was identified using BOLD‐MRI and DTI.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1320–1331.
Changes in start, end, and length of frost‐free season across Northeast China
Authors: Wang Lei , Wu Zhengfang , He Hongshi , Wang Fuxue , Du Haibo , Zong Shengwei
Published: March 2017

On the basis of the daily minimum temperature, records of 109 meteorological stations over Northeastern China (NEC) from 1961 to 2013 and the output data of eight models from CMIP5, this study investigates the recent and future spatiotemporal changes of the frost‐free season. The results show that the date of last spring frost (LSFD) has a significant decreasing trend. Stations exhibiting significant negative trends are mostly distributed in the eastern Jilin Province and the Midwest of Heilongjiang Province. The date of first fall frost (FFFD) and length of frost‐free season (LFFS) both show significant increasing trends. The spatial patterns of stations showing significant positive trends in the FFFD and LFFS are similar, which are mainly located in the middle part of Eastern Inner Mongolia and the south and middle parts of Changbai Mountains. The LFFSs have significant increasing trends with the magnitudes of 0.49 days/decade for RCP2.6, 1.62 days/decade for RCP4.5, and 3.85 days/decade for RCP8.5 during 2006–2100. The southern Liaoning Province and the northwestern NEC will experience the longer LFFS under each scenario between 2071 and 2100. The frost‐free season indices have significant correlations with the Northern Hemisphere Polar Vortex Area index. The atmospheric circulation patterns of an anticyclonic circulation anomaly prevailed over the Lake Baikal region and a cyclonic circulation anomaly located in the northwest Pacific Ocean in springs and an anticyclonic circulation anomaly prevailed over the south part of the Russian Far East in falls block more cold air flowing into NEC, which result in the earlier LSFD and later FFFD. The adverse patterns in springs and in falls could bring out the later LSFD and earlier LSFD, respectively. Our results could benefit the prevention and reduction of frost disaster and provide a reference for the policy‐making of future crop production.
Existence of the positive composite optical vortices
Authors: Zhang Ruifeng , Liu Nan
Published: March 2017

Optical vortices as topological objects exist ubiquitously in nature. In this paper, we use the principle of variational method and mountain pass lemma to develop some existence theorems for the stationary vortex wave solution of a coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations, which describe the possibility of effective waveguiding of a weak probe beam via the cross‐phase modulation‐type interaction. The main goal is to obtain a positive solution, of minimal action if possible, with all vector components not identically zero. Additionally, as demanded by beam confinement, we prove the exponential decay of the soliton amplitude at infinity. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of organic sulfobetaine‐based polymer gel electrolyte for dye‐sensitized solar cell application
Authors: Tarannum Nazia , Varishetty Madhu Mohan
Published: March 2017

We have synthesized eco‐friendly, economic, and equally efficient polysulfobetaine‐based gel electrolyte to the alternative of liquid electrolyte in the fabrication of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) for the first time. This nitrogen‐rich and highly conductive polysulfobetaine was synthesized by an easy and facile method without the use of any catalyst and explored for its DSSC application. The synthesized polymer gel electrolyte exhibited good ionic conductivity about 6.8 × 10−3 Scm−1 at ambient temperatures. DSSCs were fabricated based on this polysulfobetaine gel electrolyte and studied for their performance based on photovoltaic parameters. The DSSC photovoltaic results were appreciable and are Voc = 0.82 V, Jsc = 11.49 mA/cm2, FF = 66%, and PCE = 6.26% at 1 sun intensity. These values are slightly lower than conventional liquid electrolyte‐based DSSC shown as Voc = 0.78 V, Jsc = 12.90 mA/cm2, FF = 69%, and PCE = 7.07%, both at 100 mWcm−2. Conductivity and photovoltaic parameters of the device reveals that as prepared polysulfobetaine‐based polymer gel electrolyte may be useful in the fabrication of DSSC and other electrochemical devices. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of benzoyl‐hydrazide‐derivatized poly(lactic acid) and γ‐cyclodextrin inclusion complex and its effect on the performance of poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Li Ya , Zhen Weijun
Published: March 2017

A nucleating agent, benzyl‐hydrazide‐derivatized poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and γ‐cyclodextrin inclusion complex (PLA‐IC‐BH), was synthesized through a series of reactions. Poly(lactic acid) and γ‐cyclodextrin inclusion complex (PLA‐IC) was first obtained by ultrasonic co‐precipitation, which was then subjected to carboxylation, acylation, and amidation using benzoyl hydrazine and thionyl chloride. The composition and structure of PLA‐IC‐BH was confirmed by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. PLA/PLA‐IC‐BH composites were prepared by melt blending and a hot‐press forming process. Mechanical properties, thermal stabilities, and crystallization behaviors of PLA/PLA‐IC‐BH samples were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized optical microscopy (POM), rheological analysis, and so on. Mechanical testing and thermogravimetric analysis showed that the tensile strengths, impact properties, and thermal stabilities of PLA/PLA‐IC‐BH composites were improved significantly compared to pure PLA and PLA/PLA‐IC. DSC results showed that crystallinity of PLA was increased from 5.17% to 38.93% after introduction of PLA‐IC‐BH. POM results showed that PLA‐IC‐BH acted as a nucleating agent for PLA and enhanced its crystallization rate. Rotational rheological behaviors of PLA/PLA‐IC‐BH demonstrated that incorporation of PLA‐IC‐BH increased the rigidity of the network structure of the PLA matrix. Compared to those of PLA, the maximum torque and apparent viscosity of PLA/PLA‐IC‐BH composites were increased by 55.56% and 25.59%, respectively. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UCST‐type phase transition driven by protein‐derived polypeptide employing gelatin and chitosan
Authors: Matsukuma Daisuke , Sambai Taketomo , Otsuka Hidenori
Published: March 2017

Here, we describe the thermosensitive reversible phase transition behaviors of polyelectrolyte complex composed of gelatin and chitosan (G/C complex). An aqueous dispersion of the G/C complexes showed a clear upper critical solution temperature (UCST) at around 30°C. The thermosensitive phase transition behavior showed excellent reversibility and large thermal hysteresis as a usual phenomenon based on the intra‐ and inter‐molecular interaction change. A high correlation was observed between the UCST of the G/C complex and the helix‐melting temperature of gelatin by circular dichroism, which suggested that the phase transition of the G/C complex corresponded to the secondary structure (helix‐coil) transition of gelatin. Notably, the UCST of the G/C complex shifted to lower temperatures in the presence of urea, which is well known to destabilize gelatin, whereas the addition of salt led to the dissolution of the G/C complex. It is envisaged that the results of this study will have a significant impact on the fabrication of UCST‐type thermosensitive materials, which can be utilized under aqueous physiological conditions using well‐known biopolymers. This protein‐derived functional material, which responds to the secondary structure transition, could also be used for the development of novel UCST‐type thermosensitive biomaterials. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mesothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition as a possible therapeutic target in peritoneal metastasis of ovarian cancer
Authors: Rynne‐Vidal Angela , Au‐Yeung Chi Lam , Jiménez‐Heffernan José A , Pérez‐Lozano María Luisa , Cremades‐Jimeno Lucía , Bárcena Carmen , Cristóbal‐García Ignacio , Fernández‐Chacón Concepción , Yeung Tsz Lun , Mok Samuel C , Sandoval Pilar , López‐Cabrera Manuel
Published: March 2017

Peritoneal dissemination is the primary metastatic route of ovarian cancer (OvCa), and is often accompanied by the accumulation of ascitic fluid. The peritoneal cavity is lined by mesothelial cells (MCs), which can be converted into carcinoma‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) through mesothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (MMT). Here, we demonstrate that MCs isolated from ascitic fluid (AFMCs) of OvCa patients with peritoneal implants also undergo MMT and promote subcutaneous tumour growth in mice. RNA sequencing of AFMCs revealed that MMT‐related pathways – including transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β signalling – are differentially regulated, and a gene signature was verified in peritoneal implants from OvCa patients. In a mouse model, pre‐induction of MMT resulted in increased peritoneal tumour growth, whereas interfering with the TGF‐β receptor reduced metastasis. MC‐derived CAFs showed activation of Smad‐dependent TGF‐β signalling, which was disrupted in OvCa cells, despite their elevated TGF‐β production. Accordingly, targeting Smad‐dependent signalling in the peritoneal pre‐metastatic niche in mice reduced tumour colonization, suggesting that Smad‐dependent MMT could be crucial in peritoneal carcinomatosis. Together, these results indicate that bidirectional communication between OvCa cells and MC‐derived CAFs, via TGF‐β‐mediated MMT, seems to be crucial to form a suitable metastatic niche. We suggest MMT as a possible target for therapeutic intervention and a potential source of biomarkers for improving OvCa diagnosis and/or prognosis. © 2017 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Treated with IV Beta‐Lactam/Beta‐Lactamase Inhibitor Combinations
Authors: Rutter W. Cliff , Burgess David S.
Published: March 2017

Study Objective

Increased acute kidney injury (AKI) incidence has been reported in patients receiving piperacillin‐tazobactam (PTZ) therapy compared with other β‐lactams. The authors sought to determine if the addition of β‐lactamase inhibitors impacts AKI incidence by comparing patients treated with PTZ or ampicillin‐sulbactam (SAM).

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Large academic tertiary care hospital.

Patients

Overall, 2448 patients received PTZ (n=1836) or SAM (n=612) for at least 48 hours between September 1, 2007, and September 30, 2015. Patients were excluded for pregnancy, cystic fibrosis, chronic kidney disease, and initial creatinine clearance < 30 ml/min. Patients were matched on Charlson Comorbidity Index, initial creatinine clearance, hypotension exposure, various nephrotoxic drug exposures, history of diabetes, heart failure, and hypertension.

Measurements and Main results

AKI occurred in 265 patients at similar rates for both groups (PTZ 11.4% vs SAM 9.2%; p=0.14). After stratifying by vancomycin exposure and controlling for confounders, there was no difference in the risk of AKI for SAM or PTZ (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59–1.25). The addition of vancomycin (VAN) to PTZ increased the likelihood of AKI compared with PTZ alone (aOR 1.77, 95% CI 1.26–2.46). Concomitant SAM and VAN therapy was not associated with a significant increase in AKI compared with SAM monotherapy (aOR 1.01, 95% CI 0.48–1.97).

Conclusion

Rates of AKI were similar for PTZ and SAM in a matched cohort. The addition of a β‐lactamase inhibitor is not likely the mechanism in the observed increased rates of AKI in patients treated with vancomycin and PTZ.
Novel Monoclonal Antibodies Recognizing Human Prostate‐Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA) as Research and Theranostic Tools
Authors: Nováková Zora , Foss Catherine A. , Copeland Benjamin T. , Morath Volker , Baranová Petra , Havlínová Barbora , Skerra Arne , Pomper Martin G. , Barinka Cyril
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a validated target for the imaging and therapy of prostate cancer. Here, we report the detailed characterization of four novel murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) recognizing human PSMA as well as PSMA orthologs from different species.

METHODS

Performance of purified mAbs was assayed using a comprehensive panel of in vitro experimental setups including Western blotting, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, flow cytometry, and surface‐plasmon resonance. Furthermore, a mouse xenograft model of prostate cancer was used to compare the suitability of the mAbs for in vivo applications.

RESULTS

All mAbs demonstrate high specificity for PSMA as documented by the lack of cross‐reactivity to unrelated human proteins. The 3F11 and 1A11 mAbs bind linear epitopes spanning residues 226–243 and 271–288 of human PSMA, respectively. 3F11 is also suitable for the detection of PSMA orthologs from mouse, pig, dog, and rat in experimental setups where the denatured form of PSMA is used. 5D3 and 5B1 mAbs recognize distinct surface‐exposed conformational epitopes and are useful for targeting PSMA in its native conformation. Most importantly, using a mouse xenograft model of prostate cancer we show that both the intact 5D3 and its Fab fragment are suitable for in vivo imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

With apparent affinities of 0.14 and 1.2 nM as determined by ELISA and flow cytometry, respectively, 5D3 has approximately 10‐fold higher affinity for PSMA than the clinically validated mAb J591 and, therefore, is a prime candidate for the development of next‐generation theranostics to target PSMA. Prostate 77:749–764, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Introduction to functional safety assessments of safety controls, alarms, and interlocks: How efficient are your functional safety projects?
Authors: Roche Eloise , Hochleitner Monica , Summers Angela
Published: March 2017

The return on investment (ROI) for safety controls, alarms, and interlocks (SCAI) can be significantly impacted by human error, which can occur during any lifecycle activity and be committed by competent workers. Design, installation, testing, maintenance, and operational practices are often repeated throughout a site, lowering the ROI with each flawed installation. A functional safety assessment (FSA) is a tool used to identify and correct defects before a simple human error allows an incident to propagate in spite of the capital spent on the installed SCAI equipment.

Significant efficiency can be gained when FSAs are periodically conducted during the SCAI lifecycle, so that critical information is gathered when needed. This article will discuss the internationally endorsed five‐stage approach to FSA. The purpose and content of each FSA stage is reviewed and execution timing is suggested that focuses project resources to maximize FSA benefit to project cost and schedule. Finally, a case study illustrates how lack of effective and timely FSA contributed to the occurrence of a costly and catastrophic loss event. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 36: 392–398, 2017
Moulded Pulp Manufacturing: Overview and Prospects for the Process Technology
Authors: Didone Mattia , Saxena Prateek , Brilhuis‐Meijer Ellen , Tosello Guido , Bissacco Giuliano , Mcaloone Tim C. , Pigosso Daniela Cristina Antelmi , Howard Thomas J.
Published: March 2017

Eco‐friendly packaging such as moulded pulp products have gained commercial importance in the recent years. However, it remains a greatly under‐researched area, and there is an arising need to consolidate the best practices from research and industry in order to increase its implementation. The goal of this paper is to give an overview of the main aspects involved in the manufacture of moulded pulp products. This includes a classification of moulded pulp products, historical and current applications, production processes, materials, mechanical properties and environmental sustainability. Moreover, based on the latest research in the field, an innovative drying technique that utilizes concepts derived from impulse drying is presented, and the implementation of this process technology is discussed. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Delayed Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Acute Calculous Cholecystitis: Is it Time for a Change?
Authors: Yuval Jonathan B. , Mizrahi Ido , Mazeh Haggi , Weiss Daniel J. , Almogy Gidon , Bala Miklosh , Kuchuk Eran , Siam Baha , Simanovsky Natalia , Eid Ahmed , Pikarsky Alon J.
Published: March 2017

Background

Our aim was to evaluate the advantages and limitations of delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) in a tertiary center.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis of all patients admitted to our institution with acute calculous cholecystitis (ACC) between January 2003 and December of 2012 was performed. Data collected included patient demographics and comorbidities, presenting symptoms, laboratory findings, imaging results, length of stay (LOS), time to surgery, and surgical complications.

Results

A total of 1078 patients were admitted with ACC. There were 593 females (55%), and the mean age was 57 ± 0.6 years. Mean LOS at initial admission, re‐admission until surgery, and following surgery was 7.9 ± 0.2, 1.5 ± 0.1, and 3.4 ± 0.2 days, respectively. Percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) tube was inserted in 24% of the patients. Only 640 (59%) patients eventually underwent LC. Mean time to surgery was 97 ± 9.8 days, and 16.4% of patients were readmitted in this time period resulting in a mean total LOS of 10.6 ± 0.2 days. Conversion rate to open surgery was 5.8% and bile duct injury occurred in 1.1%. Postoperative complications occurred in 9.8% of the patients, and 30‐day mortality was 0.6%. Patients with more severe inflammation according to Tokyo Criteria grade were more likely to undergo PC, were more likely to be readmitted while waiting for LC, and also had more postoperative complications.

Conclusions

Delayed LC is associated with significant loss of follow‐up, long LOS, and higher than expected use of PC. Conversion rates are lower than in the literature while rates of bile duct injury and mortality are comparable. We believe these data as well as the available literature are sufficient to change our hospital policy regarding the surgical treatment of ACC from delayed to early same admission surgery in appropriate cases.
High-performance recombinant protein production with Escherichia coli in continuously operated cascades of stirred-tank reactors
Authors: Schmideder Andreas , Weuster-Botz Dirk
Published: March 2017

The microbial expression of intracellular, recombinant proteins in continuous bioprocesses suffers from low product concentrations. Hence, a process for the intracellular production of photoactivatable mCherry with Escherichia coli in a continuously operated cascade of two stirred-tank reactors was established to separate biomass formation (first reactor) and protein expression (second reactor) spatially. Cascades of miniaturized stirred-tank reactors were implemented, which enable the 24-fold parallel characterization of cascade processes and the direct scale-up of results to the liter scale. With PAmCherry concentrations of 1.15 g L−1 cascades of stirred-tank reactors improved the process performance significantly compared to production processes in chemostats. In addition, an optimized fed-batch process was outperformed regarding space–time yield (149 mg L−1 h−1). This study implicates continuous cascade processes to be a promising alternative to fed-batch processes for microbial protein production and demonstrates that miniaturized stirred-tank reactors can reduce the timeline and costs for cascade process characterization.
Homocysteine as a peripheral biomarker in bipolar disorder: A meta-analysis
Authors: Salagre E. , Vizuete A.F. , Leite M. , Brownstein D.J. , McGuinness A. , Jacka F. , Dodd S. , Stubbs B. , Köhler C.A. , Vieta E. , Carvalho A.F. , Berk M. , Fernandes B.S.
Published: March 2017

Background:

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a psychiatric disorder with an uncertain aetiology. Recently, special attention has been given to homocysteine (Hcy), as it has been suggested that alterations in 1-carbon metabolism might be implicated in diverse psychiatric disorders. However, there is uncertainty regarding possible alterations in peripheral Hcy levels in BD.

Methods:

This study comprises a meta-analysis comparing serum and plasma Hcy levels in persons with BD and healthy controls. We conducted a systematic search for all eligible English and non-English peer-reviewed articles.

Results:

Nine cross-sectional studies were included in the meta-analyses, providing data on 1547 participants. Random-effects meta-analysis showed that serum and plasma levels of Hcy were increased in subjects with BD in either mania or euthymia when compared to healthy controls, with a large effect size in the mania group (g= 0.98, 95% CI: 0.8–1.17,P< 0.001,n= 495) and a small effect in the euthymia group (g= 0.3, 95% CI: 0.11–0.48,P= 0.002,n= 1052).

Conclusions:

Our meta-analysis provides evidence that Hcy levels are elevated in persons with BD during mania and euthymia. Peripheral Hcy could be considered as a potential biomarker in BD, both of trait (since it is increased in euthymia), and also of state (since its increase is more accentuated in mania). Longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the relationship between bipolar disorder and Hcy, as well as the usefulness of peripheral Hcy as both a trait and state biomarker in BD.
Early and late change on the preclinical Alzheimer's cognitive composite in clinically normal older individuals with elevated amyloid β
Authors: Mormino Elizabeth C. , Papp Kathryn V. , Rentz Dorene M. , Donohue Michael C. , Amariglio Rebecca , Quiroz Yakeel T. , Chhatwal Jasmeer , Marshall Gad A. , Donovan Nancy , Jackson Jonathan , Gatchel Jennifer R. , Hanseeuw Bernard J. , Schultz Aaron P. , Aisen Paul S. , Johnson Keith A. , Sperling Reisa A.
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Sensitive detection of cognitive decline over the course of preclinical Alzheimer's disease is critical as the field moves toward secondary prevention trials.

Methods

We examined amyloid β (Aβ)‐related change in several variations of the preclinical Alzheimer cognitive composite (PACC) and each individual PACC component in clinically normal (CN) older participants in the Harvard Aging Brain Study. We then examined the PACC variations in the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study Prevention Instrument Study as a replication cohort.

Results

Aβ+ CN individuals demonstrated longitudinal decline on all individual PACC components and all PACC variations. Aβ group differences emerged earlier when Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test Free Recall was included in the PACC. PACC decline was associated with Clinical Dementia Rating progression.

Discussion

This independent data set and a replication cohort confirm the ability of the PACC to capture both early and late cognitive decline during the preclinical stages of Alzheimer's disease, which may prove advantageous in the prevention trial design.
Inhibition of Cyclic GMP Export by Multidrug Resistance Protein 4: A New Strategy to Treat Erectile Dysfunction?
Authors: Boydens Charlotte , Pauwels Bart , Vanden Daele Laura , Van de Voorde Johan
Published: March 2017

Background

Intracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) concentrations are regulated by degradation enzymes (phosphodiesterases) and by active transport across the plasma membrane by multidrug resistance proteins (MRPs) 4 and 5.

Aim

To evaluate the functional effect of MRP-4 inhibition and the role of MRP-4–mediated cGMP export in mouse corpora cavernosa.

Methods

Isometric tension of mouse corpora cavernosa was measured after cumulative addition of MK-571, an inhibitor of MRP-4, or sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor. In addition, the effect of MRP-4 inhibition on cGMP-independent and cGMP-dependent relaxations was studied. In vivo intracavernosal pressure and mean arterial pressure measurements were performed after intracavernosal injection of MK-571. The effect of MRP-4 inhibition on cGMP content was determined using an enzyme immunoassay kit.

Outcomes

Measurement of the effect of MK-571 on cGMP content, relaxant responses of mouse corpora cavernosa to cGMP-independent and cGMP-dependent vasodilating substances, and determination of the ratio of intracavernosal pressure to mean arterial pressure after intracavernosal injection of MK-571.

Results

MK-571 and sildenafil relaxed the corpora cavernosa concentration dependently, with sildenafil being the more potent relaxing compound. Furthermore, MK-571 enhanced relaxing responses to cGMP-dependent substances, such as sodium nitroprusside, sildenafil, acetylcholine, and electrical field stimulation, with the latter even under in vitro diabetic conditions. In contrast, cGMP-independent relaxations were not altered by MRP-4 inhibition. Intracavernosal administration of MK-571 significantly increased intracavernosal pressure, with minimal effect on mean arterial pressure. The cGMP analysis showed that MRP-4 inhibition was accompanied by increased cGMP levels.

Clinical Translation

MRP-4, at least when targeted locally in the penis or when combined with a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, might be a valuable alternative strategy for the treatment of (diabetic) erectile dysfunction.

Strengths and Limitations

This study is the first to demonstrate an in vitro direct relaxant and an in vivo pro-erectile effect of the MRP-4 inhibitor, MK-571, on mouse corpora cavernosa. However, the functional effect of MRP-5–mediated export in mouse corpora cavernosa was not explored, which has been suggested to play the predominant role in cGMP export.

Conclusion

Inhibition of MRP-4 increases basal and stimulated levels of cGMP, leading to corpora cavernosa relaxation and penile erection. Therefore, in addition to degradation of cGMP, export of cGMP by MRP-4 could contribute substantially to regulating cGMP levels in mouse corpora cavernosa.
Gain of regularity for equations of KdV type
Authors: Craig W. , Kappeler T. , Strauss W.
Published: March 2017

This article discusses questions of the smoothness of solutions to nonlinear dispersive evolution equations. We consider equations of KdV type, that is, of the general form

∂_{t}u + f\left(∂_{x}^{3}u,∂_{x}^{2}u,∂_{x}u,u;\:x,t\right) = 0

with

x\in \mathbf R

. The hypothesis on the nonlinear function

f

is principally that

∂_{∂_{x}^{3}u}f≧\mathrm{C}≧0

, so that dispersive effects are dominant. We show that if the function

u(0, x)

decays faster than polynomially on

\mathbf R^+

, and possesses certain minimal regularity, then
a priori
the solution

u(t, x) \in C^∞

for

t > 0

. Furthermore, the relationship between the rate of decay and the amount of gain of regularity is quantified; if

\int _{−\mathrm{∞}}^{\mathrm{∞}}u^{2}\left(0,x\right)\:\left(1 + \left|x_{ + }\right|^{k}\right)\:dx < \mathrm{∞}

then

u\left(t,\:.\right) \in \mathrm{H}_{\mathrm{loc}}^{k}\left(\mathbf{R}\right)

for all

0 < t ≦T

, and

u\left(t,x\right) \in \mathrm{L}^{1}\left(\left[0,\mathrm{T}\right];\mathrm{H}_{\mathrm{loc}}^{k + 1}\left(\mathbf{R}\right)\right)

where

T

is the existence time.

Cet article démontre certaines propriétés de régularité des solutions des équations d’évolution dispersives non linéaires. Nous considérons les équations du type KdV, de la forme

∂_{t}u + f\left(∂_{x}^{3}u,∂_{x}^{2}u,∂_{x}u,u;\:x,t\right) = 0

où

x\in \mathbf R

. L’hypothèse la plus importante sur la fonction

f

est que

∂_{∂_{x}^{3}u}f≧\mathrm{C} > 0

, pour que les effets dispersifs soient dominants. Nous montrons que, si la fonction

u(0, x)

décroît vers zéro plus vite que les polynomes sur

\mathbf R^+

, et si elle est de minimale régularité,
a priori
la solution

u(t, x) \in C^∞

pour

t > 0

. En plus, la relation entre la vitesse de décroissance et l’ordre de régularité supplémentaire est quantifiée; si

\int _{−\mathrm{∞}}^{\mathrm{∞}}u^{2}\left(0,x\right)\left(1 + \left|x_{ + }\right|^{k}\right)dx < \mathrm{∞}

alors

u\left(t,\:.\right) \in \mathrm{H}_{\mathrm{loc}}^{k}\left(\mathbf{R}\right)

pour tout

0<t≦T

, et

u\left(t,x\right) \in \mathrm{L}^{1}\left(\left[0,\mathrm{T}\right];\mathrm{H}_{\mathrm{loc}}^{k + 1}\left(\mathbf{R}\right)\right)

où

T

est le temps d’existence.
Closed orbits of fixed energy for a class of $N$-body problems
Authors: Coti-Zelati V. , Ambrosetti A.
Published: March 2017

We prove the existence of periodic solutions with prescribed energy for a class of

N

-body type problems.

Nous démontrons l’existence de solutions périodiques à énergie fixée pour une classe de problèmes de type

N

-corps.
Concentration of solutions to elliptic equations with critical nonlinearity
Authors: Rey O.
Published: March 2017

We study the asymptotic behavior as

ε

goes to zero of solutions in

\mathrm{H}_{0}^{1}\left(\mathrm{\Omega }\right)

to the equation:

−Δu = \left|u\right|^{4/ \left(\mathrm{N}−2\right)}u + \mathrm{\varepsilon }\:f\left(x\right)

, where

Ω

is a bounded domain in

\mathbf R^N

. We show the existence of solutions to the problem which blow-up at some well-defined points, depending on

f

, for

ε = 0

.

Nous étudions le comportement asymptotique quand ε tend vers zèro de solutions dans

\mathrm{H}_{0}^{1}\left(\mathrm{\Omega }\right)

de l'équation :

−Δu = \left|u\right|^{4/ \left(\mathrm{N}−2\right)}u + \mathrm{\varepsilon }\:f\left(x\right),

où

Ω

est un ouvert borné de

\mathbf R^N

. Nous montrons l’existence de solutions du problème qui explosent en des points caractérisés précisément en fonction de

f

, pour

ε = 0

.
Minimal interface criterion for phase transitions in mixtures of Cahn–Hilliard fluids
Authors: Baldo Sisto
Published: March 2017

In this paper we extend the Van der Waals–Cahn–Hilliard theory of phase transitions to the case of a mixture of

n

non-interacting fluids. By describing the state of the mixture as given by a vector density function

u = (u_1, …, u_n)

, the problem consists in studying the asymptotic behaviour as

\mathrm{\varepsilon }\rightarrow 0^{ + }

of minimizers of the energy functionals:

\mathrm{E}_{\mathrm{\varepsilon }}\left(u\right) = \int _{\mathrm{\Omega }}|\mathrm{\varepsilon }^{2}|\mathrm{D}u|^{2} + \mathrm{W}(u)|\mathrm{dx}

under the volume constraint

\int _{\mathrm{\Omega }}u(x)\:dx = m

, with

m\in \mathbf R^n

fixed. The function

W

, which represents the Gibbs free energy, is non-negative and vanishes only in a finite number of points

α_1, …, α_k\in \mathbf R^n

. The result is that the minimizers asymptotically approach a configuration which corresponds to a partition of the container

Ω

into

k

subsets whose boundaries satisfy a minimality condition.

Dans cet article nous étendons la théorie des transitions de phase de Van der Waals–Cahn–Hilliard au cas d’un mélange de

n

fluides non intérageants. En supposant l’état du mélange décrit par une fonction vectorielle de densité

u = (u_1, …, u_n)

, le problème consistera dans l’étude du comportement asymptotique par

\mathrm{\varepsilon }\rightarrow 0^{ + }

des minimisants des énergies :

\mathrm{E}_{\mathrm{\varepsilon }}\left(u\right) = \int _{\mathrm{\Omega }}|\mathrm{\varepsilon }^{2}|\mathrm{D}u|^{2} + \mathrm{W}(u)|\mathrm{dx}

sous la contrainte de volume

\int _{\mathrm{\Omega }}u(x)\:dx = m

, avec

m\in \mathbf R^n

fixé. La fonction W représente l’énergie libre de Gibbs, à valeurs non négatives et qui est nulle sur un nombre fini de points

α_1, …, α_k \in \mathbf R^n

. Nous obtenons alors que les minimisants approchent asymptotiquement une configuration qui corresponds à une partition du container

Ω

en

k

sous-ensembles dont les bords satisfont à une certaine condition de minimalité.
On a classical problem of the calculus of variations without convexity assumptions
Authors: Cellina A. , Colombo G.
Published: March 2017

We show that the functional

\mathrm{I}(x) = \int _{0}^{\mathrm{T}}g(t,x(t))\:dt + \int _{0}^{\mathrm{T}}h(t,x′(\mathrm{t}))\:dt

attains a minimum under the condition that

g

be concave in

x

.

Nous montrons que le fonctionnel

\mathrm{I}(x) = \int _{0}^{\mathrm{T}}g(t,x(t))\:dt + \int _{0}^{\mathrm{T}}h(t,x′(\mathrm{t}))\:dt

atteint le minimum sous la condition de concavité sur

g

.
On the density of the range for some nonlinear operators
Authors: Long Yiming
Published: March 2017

We study the existence of periodic solutions for a class of nonlinear Hamiltonian systems

\dot z -\mathscr J H'(z)=f(t).

By using the Leray–Schauder Theorem to solve a modified problem and passing to a limit, we show that

\mathscr J d/td -\mathscr J H'(.)

has a dense range in

\mathscr L^2

. We also obtain similar density results for nonlinear Schrödinger operators and other problems.

Nous étudions l’existence de solutions périodiques pour une classe de systèmes Hamiltoniens non linéaires

\dot z -\mathscr J H'(z)=f(t).

A l’aide du théorème de Leray–Schauder nous résolvons un problème modifié et passons à la limite. On montre que l’opérateur

\mathscr J d/td -\mathscr J H'(.)

a une image dense dans

\mathscr L^2

. Nous obtenons aussi des résultats semblables pour d’autres opérateurs dont les opérateurs de Schrödinger non linéaires.