bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General Polyethyleneimine‐Mediated Synthesis of Ultrathin Hexagonal Co3O4 Nanosheets with Reactive Facets for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Bin , Lu Xiao‐Ying , Tang Yuanyuan , Ben Weiwei
Published: January 2016

The front cover artwork is provided by Dr. Xiao‐Ying Lu from Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong and her collaborators from Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute and South University of Science and Technology of China. The image shows facile synthesis of ultrathin hexagonal Co3O4 nanosheets with reactive facets and mesopores by a general polyethyleneimine‐mediated strategy for high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/celc.201500377.
Beyond the Dimer and Trimer: Tetraspiro[2.1.25.1.29.1.213.13] hexadecane‐1,3,5,7‐tetraone—the Cyclic Tetramer of Carbonylcyclopropane
Authors: Sedenkova Kseniya N. , Averina Elena B. , Grishin Yuri K. , Andriasov Kristian S. , Stepanova Svetlana A. , Roznyatovsky Vitaly A. , Kutateladze Andrei G. , Rybakov Victor B. , Albov Dmitry V. , Kuznetsova Tamara S. , Zefirov Nikolay S.
Published: January 2016

Tetraspiro[2.1.25.1.29.1.213.13]hexadecane‐1,3,5,7‐tetraone 4, a unique tetraketone containing a cyclooctane core and four spiroannelated cyclopropane moieties, represents the previously unknown cyclotetramer of carbonylcyclopropane. For this purpose oxidation of the parent polyspirocyclic hydrocarbon was examined under various oxidative conditions, and the reactivity of oxidants towards methylene groups of the eight‐membered cycle, activated by adjacent spirocyclopropane rings, was evaluated and contrasted. Whereas the treatment of tetraspirohexadecane with ozone resulted in monooxidation, its reaction with methyl(trifluoromethyl)dioxirane afforded the product of four‐fold oxidation, triketoalcohol 10. Subsequent oxidation of the latter with Dess–Martin periodinane gave the target tetraketone 4.
ChemInform Abstract: Dipolar Cycloaddition‐Based Multicomponent Reactions in Ionic Liquids: A Green, Fully Stereoselective Synthesis of Novel Polycyclic Cage Systems with the Generation of Two New Azaheterocyclic Rings.
Authors: Kumar Raju Suresh , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Arumugam Natarajan , Menendez J. Carlos , Osman Hasnah , Kumar Raju Ranjith
Published: January 2016

Bifunctional polycyclic cage structures are synthesized in an ionic liquid by a sustainable microwave‐assisted three‐component [3+2] cycloaddition—annulation of diarylidene‐4‐piperidinones, acenaphthenequinone, and amino acids in good to excellent yields with complete regio‐ and stereoselectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Molecular Catalyst Immobilized Photocathodes for Water/Proton and Carbon Dioxide Reduction
Authors: Tian Haining
Published: January 2016

Review: 74 refs.
Zeitverhalten der isothermen Reaktivdestillation beim thermischen Cracken und Desoxygenieren von Rapsöl
Authors: Augustin Christian , Sievers Anika , Willner Thomas
Published: January 2016

Thermisches Cracken von Rapsöl bei der isothermen Reaktivdestillation kann einen Beitrag zur Bereitstellung alternativer flüssiger Brenn‐ und Kraftstoffe leisten. Die zeitliche Änderung der Sumpfphase und des Öl‐Kondensates zeigt einen Brennwertanstieg verursacht durch Desoxygenierung. Die Sumpfphase ist zunehmend thermisch stabiler, begleitet von Polymerisation und Aromatisierung. Auf diese Vorgänge lässt eine Änderung der Jodzahl, des H/C‐Verhältnisses sowie der Viskosität schließen. Die Desoxygenierung des Öl‐Kondensats wird bestätigt durch eine Verringerung der Säurezahl und der detektierten Carbonsäuren.
Selective Liquid Phase Adsorption of Biogenic HMF on Hydrophobic Spherical Activated Carbons
Authors: Schute Kai , Louven Yannik , Detoni Chaline , Rose Marcus
Published: January 2016

The adsorption of biogenic hydroxymethylfurfural and fructose from aqueous phase reaction mixtures on polymer‐based spherical activated carbons was studied. The adsorbents show a high capacity in combination with an outstanding selectivity due to their hydrophobic surface. Equilibrium isotherms and breakthrough curves of single and multicomponent solutions as well as the desorption behavior were measured and modelled accordingly. Overall, the results obtained enable further process development for adsorptive liquid phase separation in future biorefinery processes.
Cooperative or competitive in alliance formation: Alliance patterns with respect to rivals
Authors: Kim Kwang‐Ho
Published: January 2016

Premised on the assumption that strategic alliance is a type of competitive action toward rivals, this study explores how a firm uses alliances differently with respect to rivals. I distinguish between two types of alliances that directly involve rivals: alliance with a rival and with a rival's partner. The former and the latter reflect cooperative‐ and competitive‐orientations respectively. Further, I investigate what drives a focal firm to adopt a particular alliance rather than another. The findings indicate that the key consideration explaining different alliance patterns is the resource profiles of focal and rival firms. This study contributes to the literature on competitive dynamics and strategic alliance by suggesting a new approach to integrate interfirm competition and cooperation. Copyright © 2016 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Precipitation of sparingly soluble salts in packed sandbeds in the presence of miscible and immiscible organic substances
Authors: Pavlakou Efstathia I. , Sygouni Varvara , Lioliou Maria G. , Koutsoukos Petros G. , Paraskeva Christakis A.
Published: January 2016

Sparingly soluble salts precipitation, e.g. calcium carbonate or calcium sulfate, results in pore clogging in rock formations and in the concomitant reduction of the local permeability of oil wells during the oil extraction processes. On the other hand, in situ controlled salt precipitation is desirable in various applications e.g. waterproofing of concrete constructions suffering from leakages, etc. In the present study, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) precipitation in sandbeds was investigated, in the presence of organic solvents simulating the conditions prevalent in oil‐well zones. CaCO3 precipitation was investigated from supersaturated solutions prepared by in‐situ mixing of NaHCO3 and CaCl2.2H2O solutions before the inlet of sandbeds. The solution resulting from the mixing of the two solutions was supersaturated with respect to all calcium carbonate polymorphs. Three types of experiments were performed depending on the supersaturated solutions: a) aqueous solutions b) aqueous supersaturated solutions in contact with sandbeds pre‐saturated with n‐dodecane c) aqueous solutions containing monoethylene glycol (MEG). Results showed that oil–water interfaces enhanced the heterogeneity of the supersaturated solutions and accelerated crystal growth of calcium carbonate at the inlet of the sandbed, resulting in early pore clogging and limitation of local permeability. Maximum sandbed consolidation was obtained with the solutions containing MEG.
Metastatic HPV‐related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma to the lung and mediastinal lymph nodes in aspirated cytology material: A diagnostic pitfall
Authors: Banet Natalie , Rooper Lisa M. , Maleki Zahra
Published: January 2016

Background

Although HPV‐related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has good prognosis, a small proportion of patients develop distant metastases and have worse outcomes. Such metastases can be particularly difficult to diagnose in the lung and mediastinum, where they show extensive morphologic overlap with primary pulmonary neoplasms. This case series discusses metastatic HPV‐related HNSCC in lung and mediastinal fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology.

Methods

The cytopathology archives were searched for lung and mediastinal FNA specimens of patients with HNSCC. Specimens were included if either the index FNA or the patient's original HNSCC was positive for HPV by DNA in‐situ hybridization (ISH). Ten such cases were identified. Patient demographics and primary tumor details were tabulated from the electronic medical record. All FNA slides and stains were reviewed.

Results

The ten patients (mean age of 58.2 years) included 4 smokers. Smears from all cases were hypercellular and hyperchromatic, with focal keratinization in 6/10 (60%). Core biopsies and cell blocks showed basaloid morphology with variable amounts of necrosis. All ten FNAs were diffusely positive for p16 (100%) and 7/9 cases stained (77.8%) were positive for HPV DNA ISH.

Conclusions

Metastatic HPV‐related HNSCC to the lung and mediastinal lymph nodes share the characteristic basaloid, minimally keratinizing morphology seen in Primary HNSCC cytology. Poorly differentiated pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma and neuroendocrine carcinomas are the primary differentials. Although primary lung neoplasms are not HPV‐related, p16 positivity can be seen in both squamous cell and small cell lung carcinomas. HPV ISH allows definitive diagnosis of metastatic HPV‐related HNSCC. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:206–214. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pulmonary nocardiosis in fine‐needle aspiration cytology smears: Report of four cases
Authors: Sharma Sudha , Singh Priya , Garg Rashi , Dey Pranab
Published: January 2016

Nocardia has been recognized as a significant opportunistic pathogen in organ transplant patients; however, it is an uncommon pathogen in immunocompetent patients. It may mimic other infectious diseases both clinically and radiologically. We report four cases of pulmonary nocardiosis in three immunocompromised and one immunocompetent patients on fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). Two patients presented with lung consolidation while two had cavitatory lesions. FNAC smears showed inflammatory cells composed of polymorphs and histiocytes along with necrosis. Occasional epithelioid cell granuloma was seen in one case. Modified Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN) stain was performed which highlighted long slender filamentous branching organisms conforming to the morphology of Nocardia. Thus, a suspicion for nocardiosis should be kept while assessing cytologic material especially in immunocompromised individuals. The diagnosis can be confirmed by special stains and culture studies; however, a high index of clinical suspicion is required so that appropriate culture media can be used for high diagnostic yield. FNAC is of help in providing immediate and accurate diagnosis of nocardiosis, thus helping in appropriate medical management. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:347–350. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analgesic Effect of the Newly Developed S(+)‐Flurbiprofen Plaster on Inflammatory Pain in a Rat Adjuvant‐Induced Arthritis Model
Authors: Sugimoto Masanori , Toda Yoshihisa , Hori Miyuki , Mitani Akiko , Ichihara Takahiro , Sekine Shingo , Hirose Takuya , Endo Hiromi , Futaki Nobuko , Kaku Shinsuke , Otsuka Noboru , Matsumoto Hideo
Published: January 2016

Preclinical Research

This article describes the properties of a novel topical NSAID (Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug) patch, SFPP (S(+)‐flurbiprofen plaster), containing the potent cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, S(+)‐flurbiprofen (SFP). The present studies were conducted to confirm human COX inhibition and absorption of SFP and to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of SFPP in a rat adjuvant‐induced arthritis (AIA) model. COX inhibition by SFP, ketoprofen and loxoprofen was evaluated using human recombinant COX proteins. Absorption of SFPP, ketoprofen and loxoprofen from patches through rat skin was assessed 24 h after application. The AIA model was induced by injecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis followed 20 days later by the evaluation of the prostaglandin PGE2 content of the inflamed paw and the pain threshold. SFP exhibited more potent inhibitory activity against COX‐1 (IC50 = 8.97 nM) and COX‐2 (IC50 = 2.94 nM) than the other NSAIDs evaluated. Absorption of SFP was 92.9%, greater than that of ketoprofen and loxoprofen from their respective patches. Application of SFPP decreased PGE2 content from 15 min to 6 h and reduced paw hyperalgesia compared with the control, ketoprofen and loxoprofen patches. SFPP showed analgesic efficacy, and was superior to the ketoprofen and loxoprofen patches, which could be through the potent COX inhibitory activity of SFP and greater skin absorption. The results suggested SFPP can be expected to exert analgesic effect clinically. Drug Dev Res 76 : 20–28, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The relationship between prior night's sleep and measures of infant imitation
Authors: Konrad Carolin , Herbert Jane S. , Schneider Silvia , Seehagen Sabine
Published: January 2016

We examined whether sleep quality during the night and naps during the day preceding a learning event are related to memory encoding in human infants. Twenty‐four 6‐ and twenty‐four 12‐month‐old infants' natural sleeping behavior was monitored for 24 hr using actigraphy. After the recording period, encoding was assessed using an imitation paradigm. In an initial baseline phase, infants were allowed to interact with the stimulus to assess spontaneous production of any target actions. Infants then watched an experimenter demonstrate a sequence of three target actions and were immediately given the opportunity to reproduce the demonstrated target actions to assess memory encoding. Analyses revealed significant correlations between nighttime sleep quality variables (sleep efficiency, sleep fragmentation) and immediate imitation in 6‐month‐olds, but not in 12‐month‐olds. High sleep quality in the preceding night was thus positively associated with next day's memory encoding in 6‐month‐old infants. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 58: 450–461, 2016.
Boost retention with campuswide access to Universal Design software
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: January 2016

Incorporating Universal Design throughout your campus's curriculum is a big help to students with disabilities. And, in fact, it can help many students who do not have disabilities succeed in higher education. At Augsburg College in Minnesota, implementation of read&write, Universal Design software, for all students was an important part of retention efforts.
Inflammation and the coagulation system in tuberculosis: Tissue Factor leads the dance
Authors: Caccamo Nadia , Dieli Francesco
Published: January 2016

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, drives the formation of granulomas, structures in which both immune cells and the bacterial pathogen cohabit. The most abundant cells in granulomas are macrophages, which contribute as both cells with bactericidal activity and as targets for M. tuberculosis infection and proliferation during the entire course of infection. The mechanisms and factors involved in the regulation and control of macrophage microenvironment‐specific polarization and plasticity are not well understood, as some granulomas are able to control bacteria growth and others fail to do so, permitting bacterial spread. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Venkatasubramanian et al. [Eur. J. Immunol. 2016. 46: 464–479] show that mice lacking the tissue factor gene in myeloid cells have augmented M. tuberculosis growth and increased inflammation in the lungs. This suggests that tissue factor, an initiator of coagulation, is important for the generation of fibrin, which supports granuloma formation. This article demonstrates for the first time the involvement of tissue factor in inducing effective immunity against M. tuberculosis, and sheds new lights on the complex interplay between host inflammatory response, the coagulation system, and the control of M. tuberculosis infection.
Robot‐guided neuronavigated rTMS as an alternative therapy for central (neuropathic) pain: Clinical experience and long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Pommier B. , Créac'h C. , Beauvieux V. , Nuti C. , Vassal F. , Peyron R.
Published: January 2016

Background

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) appears as a useful tool to alleviate neuropathic pain but only few data are available for the long‐term benefit of this treatment.

Methods

Here we report the effects of rTMS sessions, considered as a possible therapy for pain relief after a failure of different medications in patients with central (neuropathic) pain. We review here the prospectively collected data of the first forty patients treated as follow: 20 Hz stimulation delivered over the contralateral primary motor cortex (M1), each 3–4 weeks.

Results

A total of 440 rTMS sessions was collected (mean sessions number: 11, range: 1–37, follow‐up 312 days on average, maximum 2.8 years). After four sessions, nine patients (22.5%) discontinued rTMS because of a lack of efficiency (<10% pain‐relief). The other 31 patients (77.5%) had a cumulative effect across sessions leading to a mean pain relief of 41% for a duration of 15.6 days. A correlation was observed between pain relief in the first session and long‐term pain relief (R = 0.649. p = 5.6*10−6). Both intensity and duration of pain relief were significantly better for patients with persistent laser evoked potentials (LEPs, p = 0.049 and 0.0018). We did not observe any adverse‐effects.

Conclusion

These results suggest that repeated sessions of 20 Hz rTMS over M1 are interesting in clinical practice for the treatment of selected patients with central pain. Both the cumulative effects across the first sessions and the long duration of pain‐relief should impact further randomized trials that are warranted to conclude formally on rTMS efficiency in central pain.
Stream profile analysis, tectonic geomorphology and neotectonic activity of the Damxung‐Yangbajain rift in the south Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Jiang Wenliang , Han Zhujun , Zhang Jingfa , Jiao Qisong
Published: January 2016

The Damxung‐Yangbajain rift is one of the most active north–south trending rifts in the south Tibetan Plateau, and it has been playing an important role in accommodating the east–west extension of the Tibetan Plateau. Both stream profiles on the Nyainqentanglha Range adjacent to the northwest part of the Damxung‐Yangbajain rift and tectonic geomorphology in the north of the rift are analyzed to assess the spatial pattern and intensity of rock uplift which is related to neotectonic activity. A total of 85 stream profiles across the Nyainqentanglha Range are analyzed, and 111 knickpoints are interpreted. Most of these stream profiles are characterized by prominent convexities with two or more knickpoints, many of which are formed due to the strong rock uplift evidenced by abnormal concavity and extremely high steepness indices during the Quaternary. Neotectonic activity in this region is well replicated in the stream profile indices and offset landforms. Tectono‐geomorphic analysis shows that the concavity and steepness indices correlate with the fault movements at many places. The Damxung‐Yangbajain rift is characterized by left‐lateral strike‐slip in the north of Damxung and by normal movement in middle and southern parts. The middle and southern parts have been undergoing higher uplift than has the northern area. It is most likely that the strong uplift is related to the heat flow under the crust. Earthquakes occurring in the Damxung‐Yangbajain rift, including a M8 in 1411 and M6.6 in 2008, are thought to be related to heat flow activity. All of the stream profile indices and tectonic geomorphology show that the Damxung‐Yangbajain rift is not in a stable state. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) ammocoetes exposed to contaminated Portland Harbor sediments: Method development and effects on survival, growth, and behavior
Authors: Unrein Julia R. , Morris Jeffrey M. , Chitwood Rob S. , Lipton Joshua , Peers Jennifer , van de Wetering Stan , Schreck Carl B.
Published: January 2016

Many anthropogenic disturbances have contributed to the decline of Pacific lampreys (Entosphenus tridentatus), but potential negative effects of contaminants on lampreys are unclear. Lamprey ammocoetes are the only detritivorous fish in the lower Willamette River, Oregon, USA, and have been observed in Portland Harbor sediments. Their long benthic larval stage places them at risk from the effects of contaminated sediment. The authors developed experimental methods to assess the effects of contaminated sediment on the growth and behavior of field-collected ammocoetes reared in a laboratory. Specifically, they developed methods to assess individual growth and burrowing behavior. Burrowing performance demonstrated high variability among contaminated sediments; however, ammocoetes presented with noncontaminated reference sediment initiated burrowing more rapidly and completed it faster. Ammocoete reemergence from contaminated sediments suggests avoidance of some chemical compounds. The authors conducted long-term exposure experiments on individually held ammocoetes using sediment collected from their native Siletz River, which included the following: contaminated sediments collected from 9 sites within Portland Harbor, 2 uncontaminated reference sediments collected upstream, 1 uncontaminated sediment with characteristics similar to Portland Harbor sediments, and clean sand. They determined that a 24-h depuration period was sufficient to evaluate weight changes and observed no mortality or growth effects in fish exposed to any of the contaminated sediments. However, the effect on burrowing behavior appeared to be a sensitive endpoint, with potentially significant implications for predator avoidance. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2092–2102. © 2016 SETAC
Effect of bioconcentration and trophic transfer on realized exposure to oxazepam in 2 predators, the dragonfly larvae (Aeshna grandis) and the Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis)
Authors: Heynen Martina , Fick Jerker , Jonsson Micael , Klaminder Jonatan , Brodin Tomas
Published: January 2016

Psychoactive substances are used worldwide and constitute one of the most common groups of pharmaceutical contaminants in surface waters. Although these pharmaceuticals are designed to be efficiently eliminated from the human body, very little is known about their trophic-transfer potential in aquatic wildlife. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to quantify and compare uptake of an anxiolytic (oxazepam) from water (bioconcentration) and via the consumption of contaminated diet (trophic transfer) in 2 common freshwater predators: Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis) and the dragonfly larvae Aeshna grandis. Bioconcentration and trophic transfer of oxazepam were found in both predator species. However, higher bioconcentrations were observed for perch (bioconcentration factor [BCF], 3.7) than for dragonfly larvae (BCF, 0.5). Perch also retained more oxazepam from consumed prey (41%) than dragonfly larvae (10%), whereas the relative contribution via prey consumption was 14% and 42% for perch and dragonflies, respectively. In addition, bioconcentration was negatively correlated with perch weight, indicating that exposure levels in natural contaminated environments differ between individuals of different size or between different developmental stages. Hence, trophic transfer of pharmaceuticals may indeed occur, and estimates of environmental exposures that do not consider intake via food or size-dependent bioconcentration may therefore lead to wrongful estimations of realized exposure levels in natural contaminated ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:930–937. © 2016 SETAC
Chronic exposure to mono-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate causes endocrine disruption and reproductive dysfunction in zebrafish
Authors: Zhu Yongtong , Hua Rui , Zhou Yao , Li Hong , Quan Song , Yu Yanhong
Published: January 2016

Phthalic acid esters are frequently detected in aquatic environments. In the present study, zebrafish were exposed to low concentrations (0 µg/L, 0.46 µg/L, 4.0 µg/L, and 37.5 µg/L) of mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) for 81 d, and the effects on reproduction, gamete quality, plasma vitellogenin (VTG), sex steroids, and transcriptional profiles of key genes involved in steroidogenesis were investigated. The results demonstrated that egg production and sperm quality were decreased after exposure to MEHP, which also resulted in reduced egg diameter and eggshell as well as decreased egg protein content. Significant inductions in plasma testosterone and 17β-estradiol (E2) were observed in females, which might have resulted from up-regulation of CYP19a and 17β-HSD gene transcription in the ovary. A significant increase in plasma E2 along with a decrease in plasma 11-keto testosterone was also observed in males, which was accompanied by up-regulation of CYP19a and inhibition of CYP11b transcription in the testis. In addition, plasma vitellogenin levels were significantly increased after MEHP exposure in both sexes. Moreover, continuous MEHP exposure in the F1 embryos resulted in worse hatching rates and increased malformation rates compared with embryos without MEHP exposure. Taken together, these results demonstrate that MEHP has the potential to cause reproductive dysfunction and impair the development of offspring. However, it should be noted that most of the significant effects were observed at higher concentrations, and MEHP at typically measured concentrations may not have major effects on fish reproduction and development. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2117–2124. © 2016 SETAC
Human health risk assessment of triclosan in land-applied biosolids
Authors: Verslycke Tim , Mayfield David B. , Tabony Jade A. , Capdevielle Marie , Slezak Brian
Published: January 2016

Triclosan (5-chloro-2-[2,4-dichlorophenoxy]-phenol) is an antimicrobial agent found in a variety of pharmaceutical and personal care products. Numerous studies have examined the occurrence and environmental fate of triclosan in wastewater, biosolids, biosolids-amended soils, and plants and organisms exposed to biosolid-amended soils. Triclosan has a propensity to adhere to organic carbon in biosolids and biosolid-amended soils. Land application of biosolids containing triclosan has the potential to contribute to multiple direct and indirect human health exposure pathways. To estimate exposures and human health risks from biosolid-borne triclosan, a risk assessment was conducted in general accordance with the methodology incorporated into the US Environmental Protection Agency's Part 503 biosolids rule. Human health exposures to biosolid-borne triclosan were estimated on the basis of published empirical data or modeled using upper-end environmental partitioning estimates. Similarly, a range of published triclosan human health toxicity values was evaluated. Margins of safety were estimated for 10 direct and indirect exposure pathways, both individually and combined. The present risk assessment found large margins of safety (>1000 to >100 000) for potential exposures to all pathways, even under the most conservative exposure and toxicity assumptions considered. The human health exposures and risks from biosolid-borne triclosan are concluded to be de minimis. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2358–2367. © 2016 SETAC
Synthesis of Novel Isoindolo[2,1‐a]quinazolinedione Derivatives Containing a 1,2,3‐Triazole Ring System
Authors: Esmaeili‐Marandi Fatemeh , Saeedi Mina , Yavari Issa , Mahdavi Mohammad , Shafiee Abbas
Published: January 2016

A synthesis of isoindolo[2,1‐a]quinazolinedione derivatives, coupled with a 1,2,3‐triazole ring system, via the reaction of isatoic anhydride, HCCCH2NH2, and 2‐formylbenzoic acid is described, which led to the formation of the isoindolo[2,1‐a]quinazoline‐5,11‐dione scaffold having a CC bond that participated in a click reaction with various organic azides.
Four New Pregnane Steroids from Aglaia abbreviata and Their Cytotoxic Activities
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zhu Yu , Li Qin , Cen Juan
Published: January 2016

Four new pregnane steroids, aglaiasterols A–D (1–4), have been isolated from the EtOH extract of stems of Aglaia abbreviata. They were identified as (3α,5α,17Z)‐3‐hydroxypregn‐17‐en‐16‐one (1), (3β,5α,17E)‐3‐hydroxypregn‐17‐en‐16‐one (2), (3β,5α,17Z)‐3‐hydroxypregn‐17‐en‐16‐one (3), and (3α,5α,20S*)‐3‐hydroxy‐16‐oxopregnan‐20‐yl acetate (4) on the basis of spectroscopic methods, including 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR techniques. Compounds 1–4 were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against K562 (human leukemia), MCF‐7 (human breast cancer), and KB (human oral epithelium cancer) cells, and drug‐resistant cells of K562/A02, MCF‐7/ADM, and KB/VCR. These isolates showed weak to moderate inhibitory effects on the growth of the tested cell lines.
Life cycle assessment of waste prevention in the delivery of pasta, breakfast cereals, and rice
Authors: Dolci Giovanni , Nessi Simone , Rigamonti Lucia , Grosso Mario
Published: January 2016

Waste prevention is the top priority of the European waste management strategy. In fact, as indicated in the latest Waste Framework Directive, the best option to deal with waste is not to generate it at all. In this framework, the distribution of loose dry food products through self-dispensing systems (so-called “loose distribution”) is being considered worldwide as a practice to reduce the generation of packaging waste. This life cycle assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental convenience of the loose distribution of dry pasta, breakfast cereals, and rice, in comparison with the traditional method of distribution. For each product, several baseline scenarios based on single-use packaging were compared with different waste prevention scenarios in which the product is distributed loose. The comparison addressed waste generation, 13 impact categories on the environment and human health, and the Cumulative Energy Demand (CED) indicator. The results are significantly different for the 3 products. The loose distribution of pasta allows a 50% waste reduction and a decrease in the potential impacts only when compared with single-use cartonboard boxes. Conversely, when the comparison is made with single-use polypropylene bags, the loose distribution can even cause an increase in waste generation (up to 15%) and in the potential life cycle impacts. For breakfast cereals, the loose distribution allows a significant reduction in both the amount of waste (up to 84%) and the potential impacts, compared to the sale of traditional single-use bag-in-box packages. Finally, the loose distribution of rice permits a reduction in both waste generation (up to 86%) and most of the potential impacts. In particular, the impact reduction is higher when the reference single-use packaging that is replaced includes a cartonboard box. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:445–458. © 2016 SETAC

Key Points

The effectiveness of the loose distribution of dry pasta, breakfast cereals, and rice in reducing the environmental and human health impacts was evaluated by a life cycle assessment (LCA). In fact, the sole reduction of waste generation may not result in the reduction of potential impacts. The loose distribution is not necessarily more environment-friendly than the traditional one. In fact, results are significantly different for dry pasta, breakfast cereals, and rice and depend on how the traditional and the loose distributions are implemented. The loose distribution of pasta allows for a 50% waste reduction and a decrease of the potential environmental impacts when compared with single-use cartonboard boxes but not when the comparison is made with single-use polypropylene bags. The loose distribution of breakfast cereals and rice results in a significant reduction of both the amount of waste (up to 85%) and the potential impacts, when compared to traditional packages.
FGFR Inhibitor Ameliorates Hypophosphatemia and Impaired Engrailed‐1/Wnt Signaling in FGF2 High Molecular Weight Isoform Transgenic Mice
Authors: Du Erxia , Xiao Liping , Hurley Marja M.
Published: January 2016

High molecular weight FGF2 transgenic (HMWTg) mouse phenocopies the Hyp mouse, homolog of human X‐linked hypophosphatemic rickets with hypophosphatemis, and abnormal FGF23, FGFR, Klotho signaling in kidney. Since abnormal Wnt signaling was reported in Hyp mice we assessed whether Wnt signaling was impaired in HMWTg kidneys and the effect of blocking FGF receptor (FGFR) signaling. Bone mineral density and bone mineral content in female HMWTg mice were significantly reduced. HMWTg mice were gavaged with FGFR inhibitor NVP‐BGJ398, or vehicle and were euthanized 24 h post treatment. Serum phosphate was significantly reduced and urine phosphate was significantly increased in HMWTg and was rescued by NVP‐BGJ398. Analysis of kidneys revealed a significant reduction in Npt2a mRNA in HMWTg that was significantly increased by NVP‐BGJ398. Increased FGFR1, KLOTHO, P‐ERK1/2, and decreased NPT2a protein in HMWTg were rescued by NVP‐BGJ398. Wnt inhibitor Engrailed‐1 mRNA and protein was increased in HMWTg and was decreased by BGJ398. Akt mRNA and protein was decreased in HMWTg and was increased by NVP‐BGJ398. The active form of glycogen synthase 3 beta (pGSK3‐β) and phosphor‐β‐catenin were increased in HMWTg and were both decreased by NVP‐BGJ398 while decreased active‐β‐catenin in HMWTg was increased by NVP‐BGJ398. We conclude that FGFR blockade rescued hypophosphatemia by regulating FGF and WNT signaling in HMWTg kidneys. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1991–2000, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nondestructive estimation of growth year in ginseng cultivars using the means of mathematical modeling on the basis of allometry
Authors: Cheng Chunsong , Yuan Qingxi , Zhou Hua , Huang Luqi
Published: January 2016

Growth‐year authentication has extraordinary significance for plant growth, structure and development research, and has a wide range of applications in value assessment of economic crops. Panax ginseng is the most commonly used medicinal plant in Asian countries. The fix number of growth‐year is an important quality evaluation which is difficult to be obtained accurately in current technical conditions. Preliminary authentication theory for growth‐year has been described in previous studies using a short‐lived perennial medicinal plant (Paeonia lactiflora pall.) as the research material. In this research, we focused on the growth‐year estimation in ginseng cultivars, and attempt to explore the age estimation method for vascular plants according to mathematical simulation of the root structure development. Micro data was obtained from 204 individuals of 3 different kinds of ginseng cultivars, which have a series of gradient age and a clear growth record. Outer diameter of the vascular cambium (b) and the radius of cross section (r) were measured with ordinary stereo microscope. We further designed and established two different kinds of authentication model based on the taproot structure development for growth year authentication (P
and M = K*X1a1X2a2). Moreover, the models were applied to identify the growth year of ginseng without damage using Micro‐CT or DEI reconstruction. A potential method, have been recently described, the age of ginseng can be analyzed by telomere length and telomerase activity. However, we found that there are different results indicated in other species. We concluded that microscopic methods perceived currently were provided a more effective means for growth‐year authentication. Microsc. Res. Tech. 79:98–105, 2016. © 2016 The Authors Microscopy Research and Technique Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Culture if spikes? Indications and yield of blood cultures in hospitalized medical patients
Authors: Linsenmeyer Katherine , Gupta Kalpana , Strymish Judith M. , Dhanani Muhammad , Brecher Stephen M. , Breu Anthony C.
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

Although optimal utilization of blood cultures has been studied in populations, including emergency room and intensive care patients, less is known about the use of blood cultures in populations consisting exclusively of patients on a medical service.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the physician‐selected indication and yield of blood cultures ordered after hospitalization to an acute medical service and to identify populations in which blood cultures may not be necessary.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS

A prospective cohort study was performed at a single Veterans Affairs Medical Center from October 1, 2014 through April 15, 2015. Participants included all hospitalized patients on a medical service for whom a blood culture was ordered.

MEASUREMENTS

The main outcomes were the rate of true positive blood cultures and the predictors of true positive cultures.

RESULTS

The true positive rate was 3.6% per order. The most common physician‐selected indications were fever and leukocytosis, neither of which alone was highly predictive of true positive blood cultures. The only indication significantly associated with a true positive blood culture was “follow‐up previous positive” (likelihood ratio [LR]+ 3.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8‐6.5). The only clinical predictors were a working diagnosis of bacteremia/endocarditis (LR+ 3.7, 95% CI: 2.5‐5.7) and absence of antibiotic exposure within 72 hours of the culture (LR+ 2.4, 95% CI: 1.2‐4.9).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of true positive blood cultures among patients on a medical service was lower than previously studied. Using objective and easily obtainable clinical characteristics, including antibiotic exposure and working diagnosis, may improve the likelihood of true positive blood cultures. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:336–340. © 2016 Society of Hospital Medicine
Network science and the human brain: Using graph theory to understand the brain and one of its hubs, the amygdala, in health and disease
Authors: Mears David , Pollard Harvey B.
Published: January 2016

Over the past 15 years, the emerging field of network science has revealed the key features of brain networks, which include small‐world topology, the presence of highly connected hubs, and hierarchical modularity. The value of network studies of the brain is underscored by the range of network alterations that have been identified in neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, depression, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and many others. Here we briefly summarize the concepts of graph theory that are used to quantify network properties and describe common experimental approaches for analysis of brain networks of structural and functional connectivity. These range from tract tracing to functional magnetic resonance imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, electroencephalography, and magnetoencephalography. We then summarize the major findings from the application of graph theory to nervous systems ranging from Caenorhabditis elegans to more complex primate brains, including man. Focusing, then, on studies involving the amygdala, a brain region that has attracted intense interest as a center for emotional processing, fear, and motivation, we discuss the features of the amygdala in brain networks for fear conditioning and emotional perception. Finally, to highlight the utility of graph theory for studying dysfunction of the amygdala in mental illness, we review data with regard to changes in the hub properties of the amygdala in brain networks of patients with depression. We suggest that network studies of the human brain may serve to focus attention on regions and connections that act as principal drivers and controllers of brain function in health and disease.†Published 2016
Effect of sagittal plane mechanics on ACL strain during jump landing
Authors: Bakker Ryan , Tomescu Sebastian , Brenneman Elora , Hangalur Gajendra , Laing Andrew , Chandrashekar Naveen
Published: January 2016

The relationships between non‐contact anterior cruciate ligament injuries and the underlying biomechanics are still unclear, despite large quantities of academic research. The purpose of this research was to study anterior cruciate ligament strain during jump landing by investigating its correlation with sagittal plane kinetic/kinematic parameters and by creating an empirical model to estimate the maximum strain. Whole‐body kinematics and ground reaction forces were measured from seven subjects performing single leg jump landing and were used to drive a musculoskeletal model that estimated lower limb muscle forces. These muscle forces and kinematics were then applied on five instrumented cadaver knees using a dynamic knee simulator system. Correlation analysis revealed that higher ground reaction force, lower hip flexion angle and higher hip extension moment among others were correlated with higher peak strain (p < 0.05). Multivariate regression analyses revealed that intrinsic anatomic factors account for most of the variance in strain. Among the extrinsic variables, hip and trunk flexion angles significantly contributed to the strain. The empirical relationship developed in this study could be used to predict the relative strain between jumps of a participant and may be beneficial in developing training programs designed to reduce an athlete's risk of injury. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1636–1644, 2016.
Mining molecular structure databases: Identification of small molecules based on fragmentation mass spectrometry data
Authors: Hufsky Franziska , Böcker Sebastian
Published: January 2016

Mass spectrometry (MS) is a key technology for the analysis of small molecules. For the identification and structural elucidation of novel molecules, new approaches beyond straightforward spectral comparison are required. In this review, we will cover computational methods that help with the identification of small molecules by analyzing fragmentation MS data. We focus on the four main approaches to mine a database of metabolite structures, that is rule‐based fragmentation spectrum prediction, combinatorial fragmentation, competitive fragmentation modeling, and molecular fingerprint prediction. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 36:624–633, 2017
Simple Theoretical Considerations for Block‐Copolymer‐Based Plasmonic Metamaterials
Authors: Malafronte Anna , Capretti Antonio , Pepe Giovanni P. , Forestiere Carlo , Miano Giovanni , Auriemma Finizia , De Rosa Claudio , Di Girolamo Rocco
Published: January 2016

Block‐copolymers (BCPs) self‐assembling provides a unique tool for realizing large‐area ordered metamaterials with desired optical properties due to the rich range of tunable nano‐morphologies and to the chemical properties of the block polymers that can lead to the selective inclusion of functionalized nanoparticles (NPs) in specific nanodomains, generating periodic arrays of NPs according to the geometry of the BCP acting as template. In this work, we investigate nanostructured thin films of polystyrene‐block‐poly(methylmethacrylate) (PS‐PMMA) BCP filled with functionalized metallic (Au) nanoparticles. The BCP is characterized by an hexagonal array of PS cylinders in the PMMA matrix and the Au NPs are selectively included in the PS cylindrical domains. The optical properties of such nano‐structures are strongly affected by localized surface plasmons (LSPs) in the NPs. We theoretically demonstrate that the optical properties of such nano‐structures can be tuned by varying the NPs loading concentration and the NPs radius. Then, we investigate the effects of the hexagonal geometry on the collective plasmonic oscillations. We fabricated the PS‐PMMA/Au NPs composite and we experimentally demonstrate the existence of collective plasmonic resonances of gold nanoparticles after an electromagnetic stimulation, arising from the ordered arrangement of AuNPs in the periodic array of hexagonally packed cylinders created by BCP self‐assembly. This approach allows a fine modulation of the NPs optical properties and can be used as an intriguing and versatile tool to build useful devices for Optics & Photonics applications, with significant benefits for both fundamental and applied investigations.
Monolithic Polymeric Aerogels with Organically Modified Clays and Graphite Oxide Nanofillers
Authors: Longo Simona , Mauro Marco , Guerra Gaetano
Published: January 2016

In this contribution the preparation of composite syndiotactic polystyrene (s‐PS) monolithic aerogels with nanofillers such as organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) and graphene oxide (GO) is described. In these aerogels the crystallites that constitute the physical knots exhibit a nanoporous‐crystalline form. The aerogels preparation procedure allows the inclusion of also large amount of nanofillers, without aggregation, at least up to a content of 20 wt.%. This allows to improve mechanical and electrical properties of the nanoporous‐crystalline aerogels of s‐PS, which are particularly suitable to remove selectively traces of pollutants from water and air. Composite aerogels exhibiting large nanofiller content, can be also used as masterbatches for polymer composites.
A novel PI3K axis selective molecule exhibits potent tumor inhibition in colorectal carcinogenesis
Authors: Hussain Aashiq , Qazi Asif Khurshid , Mupparapu Nagaraju , Kumar Ashok , Mintoo Mubashir Javeed , Mahajan Girish , Sharma Parduman Raj , Singh Shashank Kumar , Bharate Sandip B. , Zargar Mohmmad Afzal , Ahmed Qazi Naveed , Mondhe Dilip Manikrao , Vishwakarma Ram A. , Hamid Abid
Published: January 2016

Phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K) pathway deregulation is responsible for initiation, chemo‐resistance, and poor prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC). Therefore, PI3K pathway inhibition can provide a plausible way of attaining CRC treatment. We report PI3K target specific synthesis and selection of a potent molecule, that is, 2,3‐dihydro‐2‐(naphthalene‐1‐yl) quinazolin‐4(1H)‐one (DHNQ) from quinazolinone series based on the structural activity relationship after evaluation in diverse cancers. This molecule inhibited the PI3K enzyme activity and transcriptional as well as translational expression levels in colorectal cancer (CRC) models. This was associated with subsequent decrease in phosphorylation of its downstream effector proteins, that is, p‐Akt(Ser‐473) and p‐mTORC1(Ser‐2448) and decreased ERK signaling. Furthermore, DHNQ decreased expression of cyclins that caused G1 arrest and decreased Bcl‐2/Bax ratio after mitochondrial membrane potential loss, reactive oxygen species generation, and an increase in cytosolic Ca2+ loads that is responsible for the decreased CRC cell proliferation and survival. These biochemical changes triggered apoptotic cell death with altered autophagic Beclin‐1 and LC3β expression. It seemed that the PI3K‐Akt signaling regulated apoptosis and autophagy through different mechanisms but mTORC1 mediated autophagy appeared not to be involved in the cell death induction by DHNQ. The molecule also showed significant anticancer efficacy in in vivo tumor models without any mortality indicating its non‐toxic nature with possible clinical significance. Overall, the selective elucidation of DHNQ molecular mechanism will provide the possible strategies for the clinical development in CRC that may respond to this specific, potent and novel P13K inhibitor. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Q.E.COSY: determining sign and size of small deuterium residual quadrupolar couplings using an extended E.COSY principle
Authors: Tzvetkova Pavleta , Luy Burkhard
Published: January 2016

Residual quadrupolar couplings contain important structural information comparable with residual dipolar couplings. However, the measurement of sign and size of especially small residual quadrupolar couplings is difficult. Here, we present an extension of the E.COSY principle to spin systems consisting of a Spin 1 coupled to a spin ½ nucleus, which allows the determination of the sign of the quadrupolar coupling of the Spin 1 nucleus relative to the heteronuclear coupling between the spins. The so‐called Q.E.COSY approach is demonstrated with its sign‐sensitivity using variable angle NMR, stretched gels and liquid crystalline phases applied to various CD and CD3 groups. Especially the sign‐sensitive measurement of residual quadrupolar couplings that remain unresolved in conventional deuterium 1D spectra is shown. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.