bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FRY, a global database of fire patch functional traits derived from space-borne burned area products
Authors: Laurent Pierre , Mouillot Florent , Yue Chao , Ciais Philippe , Moreno M. Vanesa , Nogueira Joana M. P.
Published: July 2018

Vegetation fires are intrinsic ecosystem disturbances of the Earth system. Global burned area products have been delivered from several space-borne instruments, and have recently provided pixel-level information underpinning fire spread processes. Here we present FRY, a global database of fire patches with morphology-based functional traits reconstructed from pixel-based burned areas derived from the MODIS and MERIS imagery using a flood-fill algorithm. Each fire patch is characterized by the geo-location of its center, area, perimeter, the features of the ellipse fitted over its pixel’s spatial distribution, and different indices of patch complexity. We obtained a consistent spatial distribution of global fire patch functional traits between the MCD64A1 Collection 6 and the MERIS fire_cci v4.1 datasets during their overlap period (2005-2011), confirming the robustness of the applied algorithm and the consistency between both products. This database is relevant to a broad spectrum of fire-related applications such as local to global functional pyrodiversity, fire emissions quantification, and the benchmarking of fire modules embedded in dynamic global vegetation models.
Full body mobile brain-body imaging data during unconstrained locomotion on stairs, ramps, and level ground
Authors: Brantley Justin A. , Luu Trieu Phat , Nakagome Sho , Zhu Fangshi , Contreras-Vidal Jose L.
Published: July 2018

Human locomotion is a complex process that requires the integration of central and peripheral nervous signalling. Understanding the brain’s involvement in locomotion is challenging and is traditionally investigated during locomotor imagination or observation. However, stationary imaging methods lack the ability to infer information about the peripheral and central signalling during actual task execution. In this report, we present a dataset containing simultaneously recorded electroencephalography (EEG), lower-limb electromyography (EMG), and full body motion capture recorded from ten able-bodied individuals. The subjects completed an average of twenty trials on an experimental gait course containing level-ground, ramps, and stairs. We recorded 60-channel EEG from the scalp and 4-channel EOG from the face and temples. Surface EMG was recorded from six muscle sites bilaterally on the thigh and shank. The motion capture system consisted of seventeen wireless IMUs, allowing for unconstrained ambulation in the experimental space. In this report, we present the rationale for collecting these data, a detailed explanation of the experimental setup, and a brief validation of the data quality.
A functional trait database for Mediterranean Basin plants
Authors: Tavşanoğlu Çağatay , Pausas Juli G.
Published: July 2018

Functional trait databases are emerging as crucial tools for a wide range of ecological studies across the world. Here, we provide a database of functional traits for vascular plant species of the Mediterranean Basin. The database includes 25,764 individual records of 44 traits from 2,457 plant taxa distributed in 119 taxonomic families. This database (BROT 2.0) is an updated and enlarged version of a previous database (BROT 1.0; 8,263 records, 14 traits, 952 taxa). Trait data were obtained from a comprehensive literature review, plus some field and experimental observations. All records are fully referenced and, in many cases, include geographic coordinates. The database is structured to include different levels of accuracy of trait information for each entry. BROT 2.0 should facilitate testing hypotheses on plant functional ecology within the Mediterranean Basin, and comparing this region with other ecosystems worldwide. The BROT 2.0 database and its trait definitions can be used as a template for creating similar trait databases in other regions of the world.
The effects of a wool hydrolysate on short-chain fatty acid production and fecal microbial composition in the domestic cat (Felis catus)
Authors: Deb-Choudhury Santanu , Bermingham Emma N. , Young Wayne , Barnett Matthew P. G. , Knowles Scott O. , Harland Duane , Clerens Stefan , Dyer Jolon M.
Published: July 2018

Novel animal-derived fibers are of interest for the pet food industry.
Sulfonated poly(styrene-divinylbenzene-glycidyl methacrylate)-capsulated magnetite nanoparticles as a recyclable catalyst for one-step biodiesel production from high free fatty acid-containing feedstocks
Authors: Chang Jinming , Guan Xiaoyu , Pan Siyu , Jia Maolin , Chen Yi , Fan Haojun
Published: July 2018

A magnetically-recyclable nanocatalyst was designed for the one-step production of biodiesel from feedstocks with a high free fatty acid content.
IR820 covalently linked with self-assembled polypeptide for photothermal therapy applications in cancer
Authors: Huang Kaizong , Gao Mengyue , Fan Lin , Lai Yueyang , Fan Hongwei , Hua Zichun
Published: July 2018

Elastin-like polypeptide covalently was linked with IR820 in an aqueous environment, followed by self-assembly into nanoparticles after adding to zinc ions solution. ELP-IR820 nanoparticles significantly accumulated at the tumor site.
An exosomal- and interfacial-biosensing based strategy for remote monitoring of aberrantly phosphorylated proteins in lung cancer cells
Authors: Ahmed Mostak , Carrascosa Laura G. , Wuethrich Alain , Mainwaring Paul , Trau Matt
Published: July 2018

We demonstrate remote detection of cellular protein phosphorylation using exosomal sources and an interfacial-biosensing strategy.
Two-dimensional tellurium nanosheets for photoacoustic imaging-guided photodynamic therapy
Authors: Lin Yan , Wu Ying , Wang Rong , Tao Guo , Luo Pei-Fu , Lin Xiang , Huang Guoming , Li Juan , Yang Huang-Hao
Published: July 2018

Two-dimensional Te nanosheets were developed as a nanoplatform for photoacoustic imaging-guided photodynamic cancer therapy.
Study of light-induced formation of photodimers in the i-motif nucleic acid structure by rapid-scan FTIR difference spectroscopy and hybrid hard- and soft-modelling
Authors: Benabou Sanae , Ruckebusch Cyril , Sliwa Michel , Aviñó Anna , Eritja Ramon , Gargallo Raimundo , de Juan Anna
Published: July 2018

The i-motif is a DNA structure formed by cytosine-rich sequences. To provide a different view on the light-induced structural changes and dynamics of direct excitation processes involving i-motif structures, the use of rapid-scan FTIR spectroscopy and hybrid hard- and soft-modelling are proposed.
The mechanism difference between CO2 and pH stimuli for a dual responsive wormlike micellar system
Authors: Dai Caili , Yang Qianru , Gao Mingwei , Zhao Mingwei , Jiang Jianfeng
Published: July 2018

To indicate the difference between pH and CO2 stimuli mechanisms, a dual responsive system is constructed with the aid of N-[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]docosanamide (NDPD) and sodium salicylate (NaSal), which is responsive to pH and CO2.
Fluorescence anisotropy in indole under two-photon excitation in the spectral range 385–510 nm
Authors: Sasin M. E. , Smolin A. G. , Gericke K.-H. , Tokunaga E. , Vasyutinskii O. S.
Published: July 2018

This paper presents the detailed study of two-photon excited fluorescence in indole dissolved in propylene glycol produced by two-photon absorption from the molecular ground state to several high lying excited states.
Applicability of a linear diffusion model to determination of the height of the potential barrier at the grain boundaries of Fe-doped SrTiO3
Authors: Chang Chih-Yuan S. , Lubomirsky Igor , Kim Sangtae
Published: July 2018

Experimental verification of a linear diffusion model on a lightly doped electron–hole conductor, Fe-doped SrTiO3.
Reduction of CO functional groups through H addition reactions: a comparative study between H2CO + H, CH3CH2CHO + H and CH3OCHO + H under interstellar conditions
Authors: Krim Lahouari , Jonusas Mindaugas , Guillemin Jean-Claude , Yáñez Manuel , Lamsabhi Al Mokhtar
Published: July 2018

H-addition reactions on the icy interstellar grains may play an important role in the formation of complex organic molecules.
Real-time measurement of the crystal violet adsorption behavior and interaction process at the silica–aqueous interface by near-field evanescent wave
Authors: Xiong Yan , Chen Jie , Duan Ming , Fang Shenwen
Published: July 2018

Orientation deposition of the CV adsorption model with electrostatic attraction to SiO−, hydrogen bond to SiOH, and van der Waals force to the surface.
Structures, electronic properties, reactivity and dynamic studies of three new polyoxometalate compounds
Authors: Harchani Ali , Kučeráková Monika , Dušek Michal , Haddad Amor
Published: July 2018

We report a complex study on the crystal structures, electronic properties, reactivity and dynamics of three polyoxometalate compounds (C6NH8)4[H2P2Mo5O23]·5H2O (1), (C2H8N)5[HP2Mo5O23]·(C3H9NO2)0.5·(H2O)1.5(2) and (C2H8N)3[PMo12O40]·(H2O)0.34(3).
Transformative 3d–4f coordination cluster carriers
Authors: Griffiths Kieran , Kostakis George E.
Published: July 2018

The transformative character of the reported 3d–4f Coordination Clusters (CCs) in catalytic reactions is summarised, demonstrating the potential of this emerging field.
Application and testing of risk screening tools for nanomaterial risk analysis
Authors: Grieger Khara , Bossa Nathan , Levis James W. , von Borries Kerstin Johanna Felicitas , Strader Phillip , Cuchiara Maude , Hendren Christine Ogilvie , Hansen Steffen Foss , Jones Jacob L.
Published: July 2018

This study applies and tests new risk screening tools for engineered nanomaterials and highlights key findings.
Anti-biofilm AgNP-polyaniline-polysulfone composite membrane activated by low intensity direct/alternating current
Authors: Zhou Yingge , Maharubin Shahrima , Tran Phat , Reid Ted , Tan George Z.
Published: July 2018

Biofouling is a serious problem in membrane bioreactor systems, which reduces membrane permeability, increases energy costs, and decreases the lifetime of membranes.
A spent hen muscle protein hydrolysate: a potential IL-10 stimulator in a murine model
Authors: Yu Wenlin , Field Catherine J. , Wu Jianping
Published: July 2018

Dietary proteins harbour bioactive peptides that exert various physiological activities.
Major compounds of red ginseng oil attenuate Aβ25–35-induced neuronal apoptosis and inflammation by modulating MAPK/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Lee Seonah , Youn Kumju , Jun Mira
Published: July 2018

The present study suggests that the major compounds of red ginseng oil prevent Aβ-induced neurotoxicity via anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory functions.
A biocatalytic method for the chemoselective aerobic oxidation of aldehydes to carboxylic acids
Authors: Knaus Tanja , Tseliou Vasilis , Humphreys Luke D. , Scrutton Nigel S. , Mutti Francesco G.
Published: July 2018

Aldehyde dehydrogenases enable the chemospecific oxidation of structurally diverse aldehydes to carboxylic acids in aqueous environment and using only air.
An automated microfluidic gene-editing platform for deciphering cancer genes
Authors: Sinha Hugo , Quach Angela B. V. , Vo Philippe Q. N. , Shih Steve C. C.
Published: July 2018

A microfluidic platform automating the gene editing pipeline (design, cell culture, transfection, editing, and analysis) to find gene culprits of cancer.
Iron–sulphur cluster biogenesisviathe SUF pathway
Authors: Bai Y. , Chen T. , Happe T. , Lu Y. , Sawyer A.
Published: July 2018

Iron–sulphur (Fe–S) clusters are versatile cofactors, which are essential for key metabolic processes in cells, such as respiration and photosynthesis, and which may have also played a crucial role in establishing life on Earth. This review focuses on the most ancient Fe–S cluster assembly system, the sulphur utilization factor (SUF) mechanism.
The effects of lanthanide-doped upconverting nanoparticles on cancer cell biomarkers
Authors: Stochaj Ursula , Rodríguez Burbano Diana C. , Cooper Daniel R. , Kodiha Mohamed , Capobianco John A.
Published: July 2018

Lanthanide-doped upconverting nanoparticles (Ln-UCNPs) possess optical and physicochemical properties that are promising for the design of new theranostic platforms.
Diastereoselective synthesis and profiling of bicyclic imidazolidinone derivatives bearing a difluoromethylated catechol unit as potent phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitors
Authors: Dorokhov Valentin S. , Golovanov Ivan S. , Tartakovsky Vladimir A. , Sukhorukov Alexey Yu. , Ioffe Sema L.
Published: July 2018

Metal-mediated C–H functionalization of cyclicN-oxides was exploited to access new highly potent analogs of the phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor Ro-20-1724.
Cobalt(ii)-catalyzed regioselective C–H halogenation of anilides
Authors: Li Ze-lin , Sun Kang-kang , Cai Chun
Published: July 2018

A cobalt-catalyzed regioselective C–H halogenation methodology is reported herein.
Novel cone-like ZnO mesocrystals with co-exposed (101̄1) and (0001̄) facets and enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Liang Shuhua , Gou Xufeng , Cui Jie , Luo Yongguang , Qu Hongtao , Zhang Te , Yang Zhimao , Yang Qing , Sun Shaodong
Published: July 2018

Surface heterojunctions were constructed in ZnO mesocrystals with co-exposed curved (101̄1) and flat (0001̄) surfaces and greater photocatalytic dye degradation was achieved compared to that of ZnO nanocrystals.
Pd(ii)-Catalyzed [3 + 2] spiroannulation of α-aryl-β-naphthols with alkynes via a C–H activation/dearomatization approach
Authors: Han Lingbo , Wang Hui , Luan Xinjun
Published: July 2018

A Pd(ii)-catalyzed [3 + 2] spiroannulation of α-aryl-β-naphthols with internal alkynes has been developed by relying on a C–H activation/arene dearomatization approach.
Hollow silica capsules for amphiphilic transport and sustained delivery of antibiotic and anticancer drugs
Authors: Gessner Isabel , Krakor Eva , Jurewicz Anna , Wulff Veronika , Kling Lasse , Christiansen Silke , Brodusch Nicolas , Gauvin Raynald , Wortmann Laura , Wolke Martina , Plum Georg , Schauss Astrid , Krautwurst John , Ruschewitz Uwe , Ilyas Shaista , Mathur Sanjay
Published: July 2018

Hollow mesoporous silica capsules were used as amphiphilic drug delivery vehicles and sustained release systems for antimicrobial and anticancer drugs.
Production of ethylene glycol from direct catalytic conversion of cellulose over a binary catalyst of metal-loaded modified SBA-15 and phosphotungstic acid
Authors: Yu Shitao , Cao Xincheng , Liu Shiwei , Li Lu , Wu Qiong
Published: July 2018

This study presents the utilization of a binary catalyst composed of metal-loaded modified SBA-15 (M/SBA-15) and phosphotungstic acid (H3PW12O40) for ethylene glycol (EG) production from direct catalytic conversion of cellulose.
Effects of pore size on in vitro and in vivo anticancer efficacies of mesoporous silica nanoparticles
Authors: Li Jie , Shen Suqin , Kong Fei , Jiang Ting , Tang Cui , Yin Chunhua
Published: July 2018

MSN with suitable pore sizes achieved an outstanding performance for in vitro and in vivo antitumor efficacies.
An expeditious and efficient bromomethylation of thiols: enabling bromomethyl sulfides as useful building blocks
Authors: Silva-Cuevas Carolina , Paleo Ehecatl , León-Rayo David F. , Lujan-Montelongo J. Armando
Published: July 2018

A new method for the bromomethylation of thiols using paraformaldehyde and HBr/AcOH, minimizes the generation of toxic byproducts. Synthetic utility of α-bromomethyl sulfides was demonstrated through umpolung and free radical chemistry.
Polymorphism, phase transformation and energetic properties of 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazole
Authors: Zhang Pengcheng , Zhao Xiuxiu , Du Yao , Gozin Michael , Li Shenghua , Pang Siping
Published: July 2018

On heating, Form II converts into Form I irreversibly, which indicates Form I is more stable at higher temperatures.
Regeneration performance of clay-based adsorbents for the removal of industrial dyes: a review
Authors: Momina Momina , Shahadat Mohammad , Isamil Suzylawati
Published: July 2018

The present review covers the regeneration capacity and adsorption efficiency of different adsorbents for the treatment of industrial dyes to control water pollution.
Preparation and photocatalytic activity characterization of activated carbon fiber–BiVO4 composites
Authors: Zhang Chencheng , Han Pingfang , Lu Xiaoping , Mao Qinghui , Qu Jiangang , Li Ya
Published: July 2018

Herein, we describe the hydrothermal immobilization of BiVO4 on activated carbon fibers, using Reactive Black KN-B photocatalytic performance evaluation and establishing the experimental conditions yielding maximalphotocatalytic activity.
Switchable gate-opening effect in metal–organic polyhedra assemblies through solution processing
Authors: Craig Gavin A. , Larpent Patrick , Kusaka Shinpei , Matsuda Ryotaro , Kitagawa Susumu , Furukawa Shuhei
Published: July 2018

Assemblies of lantern-type metal–organic polyhedra are found to show gate-opening gas adsorption depending on how they are treated with solvents.
Assembly of three-dimensional binary superlattices from multi-flavored particles
Authors: Pretti Evan , Zerze Hasan , Song Minseok , Ding Yajun , Mahynski Nathan A. , Hatch Harold W. , Shen Vincent K. , Mittal Jeetain
Published: July 2018

Self-assembly of DNA-functionalized colloids via enthalpic driving forces can produce a variety of ordered structures.
Surface property induced morphological alterations of human erythrocytes
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Manikuntala , Ghosh Udita Uday , Sarkar Debasish , DasGupta Sunando
Published: July 2018

Retention of native erythrocyte morphology on a protein covered substrate.
Understanding the loss of electrochemical activity of nanosized LiMn2O4particles: a combined experimental andab initioDFT study
Authors: Velásquez Ever A. , Silva Daiane P. B. , Falqueto Juliana B. , Mejía-López José , Bocchi Nerilso , del Rio Rodrigo , Mazo-Zuluaga Johan , Rocha-Filho Romeu C. , Biaggio Sonia R.
Published: July 2018

Nanosized spinel LMOs with crystallites smaller than ∼15 nm present significantly decreased electrochemical activity due to the increase of the energy barriers in the Li-ion diffusion paths.
Fast, simultaneous metal reduction/deposition on electrospun a-WO3/PAN nanofiber membranes and their potential applications for water purification and noble metal recovery
Authors: Wei Jing , Jiao Xiuling , Wang Ting , Chen Dairong
Published: July 2018

Wastewater containing metal pollutants has raised concerns owing to their accumulation in the human body and their negative effects on human health.
Nonfullerene small-molecule acceptors with perpendicular side-chains for fullerene-free solar cells
Authors: Shen Fugang , Xu Jianzhong , Li Xuemei , Zhan Chuanlang
Published: July 2018

This review gives an in-depth understanding of structure–performance relationships achieved from fused-ring based nonfullerene acceptors with perpendicular side-chains.
Correction: In situ study of strontium segregation in La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ in ambient atmospheres using high-temperature environmental scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Niania Mathew , Podor Renaud , Britton T. Ben , Li Cheng , Cooper Samuel J. , Svetkov Nikolai , Skinner Stephen , Kilner John
Published: July 2018

Correction for ‘In situ study of strontium segregation in La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ in ambient atmospheres using high-temperature environmental scanning electron microscopy’ by Mathew Niania et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2018, DOI: 10.1039/c8ta01341a.
LAPONITE® nanoplatform functionalized with histidine modified oligomeric hyaluronic acid as an effective vehicle for the anticancer drug methotrexate
Authors: Li Jinyu , Yang Yue , Yu Yibin , Li Qi , Tan Guoxin , Wang Yuanyuan , Liu Wei , Pan Weisan
Published: July 2018

The synthetic clay material, LAPONITE® (LAP), having a nanodisk structure together with a negatively charged surface, has been used for effective drug encapsulation by virtue of its interlayer space.
Time-lapse imaging of cell death in cell culture and whole living organisms using turn-on deep-red fluorescent probes
Authors: Jarvis Tia S. , Roland Felicia M. , Dubiak Kyle M. , Huber Paul W. , Smith Bradley D.
Published: July 2018

Targeted solvatochromic probe enables non-invasive, time-lapse fluorescence imaging of cell death in cell culture and living frog embryo.
Lightweight and conductive carbon black/chlorinated poly(propylene carbonate) foams with a remarkable negative temperature coefficient effect of resistance for temperature sensor applications
Authors: Cui Xihua , Chen Jianwen , Zhu Yutian , Jiang Wei
Published: July 2018

Lightweight and biodegradable crosslinked CB/CPPC foams exhibit a remarkable nearly-linear negative temperature coefficient effect, which has great potential in temperature sensors.
Investigating 4D coronal heating events in magnetohydrodynamic simulations
Authors: Kanella Charalambos , Gudiksen Boris V.
Published: July 2018

Context. One candidate model for heating the solar corona is magnetic reconnection that embodies Ohmic dissipation of current sheets. When numerous small-scale magnetic reconnection events occur, then it is possible to heat the corona; if ever observed, these events would have been the speculated nanoflares.

Aims. Because of the limitations of current instrumentation, nanoflares cannot be resolved. But their importance is evaluated via statistics by finding the power-law index of energy distribution. This method is however biased for technical and physical reasons. We aim to overcome limitations imposed by observations and statistical analysis. This way, we identify, and study these small-scale impulsive events.

Methods. We employed a three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic (3D MHD) simulation using the Bifrost code. We also employed a new technique to identify the evolution of 3D joule heating events in the corona. Then, we derived parameters describing the heating events in these locations, studied their geometrical properties and where they occurred with respect to the magnetic field.

Results. We report on the identification of heating events. We obtain the distribution of duration, released energy, and volume. We also find weak power-law correlation between these parameters. In addition, we extract information about geometrical parameters of 2D slices of 3D events, and about the evolution of resolved joule heating compared to the total joule heating and magnetic energy in the corona. Furthermore, we identify relations between the location of heating events and the magnetic field.

Conclusions. Even though the energy power index is less than 2, when classifying the energy release into three categories with respect to the energy release (pico-, nano-, and micro-events), we find that nano-events release 82% of the resolved energy. This percentage corresponds to an energy flux larger than that needed to heat the corona. Although no direct conclusions can be drawn, it seems that the most popular population among small-scale events is the one that contains nano-scale energetic events that are short lived with small spatial extend. Generally, the locations and size of heating events are affected by the magnitude of the magnetic field.
Estimating activity cycles with probabilistic methods
Authors: Olspert N. , Lehtinen J. J. , Käpylä M. J. , Pelt J. , Grigorievskiy A.
Published: July 2018

Context. Debate over the existence of branches in the stellar activity-rotation diagrams continues. Application of modern time series analysis tools to study the mean cycle periods in chromospheric activity index is lacking.

Aims. We develop such models, based on Gaussian processes (GPs), for one-dimensional time series and apply it to the extended Mount Wilson Ca H&K sample. Our main aim is to study how the previously commonly used assumption of strict harmonicity of the stellar cycles as well as handling of the linear trends affect the results.

Methods. We introduce three methods of different complexity, starting with Bayesian harmonic regression model, followed by GP regression models with periodic and quasi-periodic covariance functions. We also incorporate a linear trend as one of the components. We construct rotation to magnetic cycle period ratio-activity (RCRA) diagrams and apply a Gaussian mixture model to learn the optimal number of clusters explaining the data.

Results. We confirm the existence of two populations in the RCRA diagram; this finding is robust with all three methods used. We find only one significant trend in the inactive population, namely that the cycle periods get shorter with increasing rotation, leading to a positive slope in the RCRA diagram. This is in contrast with earlier studies, that postulate the existence of trends of different types in both of the populations. Our data is consistent with only two activity branches (inactive, transitional) instead of three (inactive, active, transitional) such that the active branch merges together with the transitional one. The retrieved stellar cycles are uniformly distributed over theRHK′activity index, indicating that the operation of stellar large-scale dynamos carries smoothly over the Vaughan-Preston gap. At around the solar activity index, however, indications of a disruption in the cyclic dynamo action are seen.

Conclusions. Our study shows that stellar cycle estimates from time series the length of which is short in comparison to the searched cycle itself depend significantly on the model applied. Such model-dependent aspects include the improper treatment of linear trends, while the assumption of strict harmonicity can result in the appearance of double cyclicities that seem more likely to be explained by the quasi-periodicity of the cycles. In the case of quasi-periodic GP models, which we regard the most physically motivated ones, only 15 stars were found with statistically significant cycles against red noise model. The periodicities found have to, therefore, be regarded as suggestive.
Super-Earth of 8M⊕in a 2.2-day orbit around the K5V star K2-216
Authors: Persson C. M. , Fridlund M. , Barragán O. , Dai F. , Gandolfi D. , Hatzes A. P. , Hirano T. , Grziwa S. , Korth J. , Prieto-Arranz J. , Fossati L. , Van Eylen V. , Justesen A. B. , Livingston J. , Kubyshkina D. , Deeg H. J. , Guenther E. W. , Nowak G. , Cabrera J. , Eigmüller Ph. , Csizmadia Sz. , Smith A. M. S. , Erikson A. , Albrecht S. , Sobrino Alonso , Cochran W. D. , Endl M. , Esposito M. , Fukui A. , Heeren P. , Hidalgo D. , Hjorth M. , Kuzuhara M. , Narita N. , Nespral D. , Palle E. , Pätzold M. , Rauer H. , Rodler F. , Winn J. N.
Published: July 2018

Context.Although thousands of exoplanets have been discovered to date, far fewer have been fully characterised, in particular super-Earths. The KESPRINT consortium identified K2-216 as a planetary candidate host star in the K2 space mission Campaign 8 field with a transiting super-Earth. The planet has recently been validated as well.

Aims.Our aim was to confirm the detection and derive the main physical characteristics of K2-216 b, including the mass.

Methods.We performed a series of follow-up observations: high-resolution imaging with the FastCam camera at the TCS and the Infrared Camera and Spectrograph at Subaru, and high-resolution spectroscopy with HARPS (La Silla), HARPS-N (TNG), and FIES (NOT). The stellar spectra were analyzed with theSpecMatch-EmpandSMEcodes to derive the fundamental stellar properties. We analyzed the K2 light curve with thepyanetisoftware. The radial velocity measurements were modelled with both a Gaussian process (GP) regression and the so-called floating chunk offset (FCO) technique to simultaneously model the planetary signal and correlated noise associated with stellar activity.

Results.Imaging confirms that K2-216 is a single star. Our analysis discloses that the star is a moderately active K5V star of mass 0.70 ± 0.03M⊙and radius 0.72 ± 0.03R⊙. Planet b is found to have a radius of 1.75−0.10+0.17R⊕and a 2.17-day orbit in agreement with previous results. We find consistent results for the planet mass from both models:Mp≈ 7.4 ± 2.2M⊕from the GP regression andMp≈ 8.0 ± 1.6M⊕from the FCO technique, which implies that this planet is a super-Earth. The incident stellar flux is 2.48−48+220F⊕.

Conclusions.The planet parameters put planet b in the middle of, or just below, the gap of the radius distribution of small planets. The density is consistent with a rocky composition of primarily iron and magnesium silicate. In agreement with theoretical predictions, we find that the planet is a remnant core, stripped of its atmosphere, and is one of the largest planets found that has lost its atmosphere.
The Close AGN Reference Survey (CARS)
Authors: Powell M. C. , Husemann B. , Tremblay G. R. , Krumpe M. , Urrutia T. , Baum S. A. , Busch G. , Combes F. , Croom S. M. , Davis T. A. , Eckart A. , O’Dea C. P. , Pérez-Torres M. , Scharwächter J. , Smirnova-Pinchukova I. , Urry C. M.
Published: July 2018

Aims. We probe the radiatively-efficient, hot wind feedback mode in two nearby luminous unobscured (type 1) AGN from the Close AGN Reference Survey (CARS), which show intriguing kpc-scale arc-like features of extended [O III]ionized gas as mapped with VLT-MUSE. We aimed to detect hot gas bubbles that would indicate the existence of powerful, galaxy-scale outflows in our targets, HE 0227–0931 and HE 0351+0240, from deep (200 ks)Chandraobservations.

Methods. By measuring the spatial and spectral properties of the extended X-ray emission and comparing with the sub kpc-scale IFU data, we are able to constrain feedback scenarios and directly test if the ionized gas is due to a shocked wind.

Results. No extended hot gas emission on kpc-scales was detected. Unless the ambient medium density is low (nH  ∼  1 cm−3at 100 pc), the inferred upper limits on the extended X-ray luminosities are well below what is expected from theoretical models at matching AGN luminosities.

Conclusions. We conclude that the highly-ionized gas structures on kpc scales are not inflated by a hot outflow in either target, and instead are likely caused by photoionization of pre-existing gas streams of different origins. Our nondetections suggest that extended X-ray emission from an AGN-driven wind is not universal, and may lead to conflicts with current theoretical predictions.
Association of Serum Leptin with All-Cause and Disease Specific Mortality: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Observational Studies
Authors: Kord-Varkaneh Hamed , Fatahi Somaye , Alizadeh Shahab , Ghaedi Ehsan , Shab-Bidar Sakineh
Published: July 2018

Leptin levels may affect mortality through its link to inflammation and obesity. However, data are inconclusive. This meta-analysis was performed to investigate the association of leptin with mortality. The PubMed, Scopus, Google scholar, and reference lists of the included studies were searched for all published prospective observational studies that described the associations of serum leptin and mortality up to August 2017. Two reviewers independently assessed all potentially relevant studies for inclusion and methodological quality using standardized abstraction forms. Of 518 studies identified, 19 studies considered the association of leptin with all-cause mortality (16 208 subjects) and 12 studies evaluated the association of leptin with disease-specific mortality (13 680 subjects). In the overall analysis, no significant association was found between leptin and all-cause mortality (HR=1.028; 95% CI: 0.908–1.165; p=0.659), with a high between study heterogeneity (p˂0.001, I2=61). Subgroup analysis found that high leptin is associated with increased all-cause mortality in healthy people (HR=1.159 (95% CI, 1.032, 1.302), p=0.012), in men (HR=1.162; 95% CI: 1.036–1.302; p=0.010), and in subjects with ≥60 years old (HR=1.129; 95% CI: 1.030–1.238; p=0.010); whereas, increased leptin levels was related to the decreased cancer-specific mortality ((HR=0.550; 95% CI: 0.418–0.724), p˂0.001). Higher leptin levels in healthy people, old people, and males were associated with increased all-cause mortality, while increased leptin level was related to the reduced risk of death among patients with cancer.
A systematic review of advanced endoscopy-assisted lithotripsy for retained biliary tract stones: laser, electrohydraulic or extracorporeal shock wave
Authors: Veld Joyce , van Huijgevoort Nadine , Boermeester Marja , Besselink Marc , van Delden Otto , Fockens Paul , van Hooft Jeanin
Published: July 2018

Background When conventional endoscopic treatment of bile duct stones is impossible or fails, advanced endoscopy-assisted lithotripsy can be performed by electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL), laser lithotripsy, or extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). No systematic review has compared efficacy and safety between these techniques.

Methods A systematic search was performed in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE for studies investigating EHL, laser lithotripsy, and ESWL in patients with retained biliary tract stones.

Results After screening 795 studies, 32 studies with 1969 patients undergoing EHL (n = 277), laser lithotripsy (n = 426) or ESWL (n = 1266) were included. No randomized studies were available. Although each advanced lithotripsy technique appeared to be highly effective, laser lithotripsy had a higher complete ductal clearance rate (95.1 %) than EHL (88.4 %) and ESWL (84.5 %; P  < 0.001). In addition, a higher stone fragmentation rate was reported for laser lithotripsy (92.5 %) than for EHL (75.5 %) and ESWL (89.3 %; P < 0.001). The post-procedural complication rate was significantly higher for patients treated with EHL (13.8 %) than for patients treated with ESWL (8.4 %) or laser lithotripsy (9.6 %; P = 0.04). Data on the recurrence rate of the biliary tract stones were lacking.

Conclusion This systematic review revealed that laser lithotripsy appeared to be the most successful advanced endoscopy-assisted lithotripsy technique for retained biliary tract stones, although randomized studies are lacking.
Self-expandable metal stent placement for malignant esophageal strictures – changes in clinical outcomes over time
Authors: Reijm Agnes , Didden Paul , Schelling Sara , Siersema Peter , Bruno Marco , Spaander Manon
Published: July 2018

Background Self-expandable metal stents (SEMSs) are effective for improving dysphagia in patients with incurable esophageal cancer but are also associated with recurrent dysphagia and adverse events. In the past decades, new SEMSs have been introduced, but also patients’ risk profiles have altered. It is unknown if these changes have affected SEMS outcomes.

Methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary referral center in the Netherlands. Patients who underwent palliative esophageal SEMS placement for malignant dysphagia between 1994 and 2017 were included. The primary outcome was to assess shifts over time with respect to recurrent dysphagia and adverse events after SEMS placement.

Results 997 patients who underwent SEMS placement were included. Recurrent dysphagia occurred in 309 patients (31 %) and remained stable, although with a trend towards an increase over time (hazard ratio [HR] 1.02 per 1-year increase; P = 0.05). Migration rate significantly increased over time (HR 1.04 per 1-year increase; P = 0.01). SEMS-related complications occurred in 461 patients (46.2 %), with 207 (20.7 %) major and 336 (33.7 %) minor complications. Prior chemoradiotherapy was significantly associated with major complications (HR 1.69; P < 0.001). Pain was the most common adverse event and showed a significant increase over time (P < 0.01). Factors associated with pain were prior chemoradiotherapy, absence of a fistula, axial and radial forces, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Conclusions Despite the introduction of novel esophageal SEMS designs, recurrent dysphagia has not declined over the years. Stent-related complications have increased in recent years, which seems to be mainly associated with more frequent use of chemoradiotherapy prior to SEMS placement.
Antimicrobial Dialkylresorcins from Marine-Derived Microorganisms: Insights into Their Mode of Action and Putative Ecological Relevance
Authors: Harms Henrik , Klöckner Anna , Schrör Jan , Josten Michaele , Kehraus Stefan , Crüsemann Max , Hanke Wiebke , Schneider Tanja , Schäberle Till , König Gabriele
Published: July 2018

Zobellia galactanivorans has been reported as a seaweed-associated or marine-derived species with largely unknown secondary metabolites. The combination of bioinformatic analysis and MS- and bioactivity guided separation led to the isolation of a new antibiotically active dialkylresorcin from the marine bacterium Z. galactanivorans. The antibiotic profile of the new dialkylresorcin zobelliphol (1) was investigated and compared with related and naturally occurring dialkyresorcins (i.e., stemphol (2) and 4-butyl-3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (3)) from the marine-derived fungus Stemphylium globuliferum. Bacterial reporter strain assays provided insights into the mode of action of this antibiotic compound class. We identified an interference with bacterial DNA biosynthesis for the dialkylresorcin derivative 1. In addition, the putative biosynthetic gene cluster corresponding to production of 1 was identified and a biosynthetic hypothesis was deduced.
A Synthetic Strategy for 2-Alkylchromanones: Fe(III)-Catalyzed ­Reductive Cross-Coupling of Unactivated Alkenes with Chromones
Authors: Wang Ji-Yu , Chen Xu-Ling , Dong Yu , Tang Lei , Zhang Xiao-Mei
Published: July 2018

A new synthetic approach for 2-alkylchromanones utilizing Fe (III)-catalyzed reductive cross-coupling of olefins with chromones has been developed. The reaction conditions are mild, and various substituted alkenes are applicable to the process. Moreover, control experiments were conducted, and a plausible mechanism is proposed.
Efficient Homocoupling of Aryl- and Alkenylboronic Acids in the Presence of Low Loadings of [{Pd(μ–OH)Cl(IPr)}2]
Authors: Pietraszuk Cezary , Ostrowska Sylwia , Rogalski Szymon , Lorkowski Jan , Walkowiak Jędrzej
Published: July 2018

NHC–palladium(II) complex [{Pd(μ–OH)Cl(IPr)}2] (IPr = bis(2,6-di­isopropylphenyl)imidazolin-2-ylidene) catalyzes the oxidative coupling of a broad spectrum of aryl- and alkenylboronic acids at loadings down to 5 ppm. At the concentration of 0.05 mol% the catalyst permits an efficient reaction under base-free conditions.
Regioselectivity and Reactivity of Intramolecular [2+2] Cycloaddition Reactions of Acyl Ketenes: Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Zahedifar Mahboobeh , Sheibani Hassan , Saheb Vahid
Published: July 2018

The regioselectivity of the intramolecular [2+2] cycloaddition reaction of acyl ketenes formed from metastable mesoionic 1,3-oxazinium-4-olates was investigated by experimental and theoretical methods. The ring opening of the mesoionic N-allyl-2-(2-arylvinyl)-1,3-oxazinium-4-olates led to the formation of unstable acyl ketenes. ­Although there are four possible paths for an intramolecular [2+2] cyclo­addition reaction involving the two double bonds (vinyl and allyl), only the intramolecular [2+2] criss-cross cycloaddition reaction through the vinyl double bond occurred to give 3-allyl-3-azabicyclo[3.1.1]heptane-2,4,6-trione derivatives. These products were not formed when a strongly electron-withdrawing group was present on the aryl group of acrylamides or benzamides. To understand the mechanism of the reaction, density functional theory calculations at the M06-2X/6-31+G(d) level were performed. These revealed that the formation of some preliminary intermediates plays a significant role in the formation of mesoionic 1,3-oxazinium-4-olates.
Regioselective Synthesis of Dihydro-1H-furo[b]indol-1-ones and Their Carbanionic Reactivity
Authors: Mal Dipakranjan , Jana Supriti , Bandyopadhyay Mausumi
Published: July 2018

A general synthesis of 3,4-dihydro-1H-furo[b]indol-1-ones, representing a furanone-fused pyrrole unit, has been developed. The dehydrohalogenative cyclization of 4-aminofuranones was achieved by reaction with Pd(OAc)2 and DABCO in DMF. The corresponding N-protected indolones undergo alkylation at C3.
Severe Type I Protein C Deficiency in a Compound Heterozygote for Y124C and Q132X Mutations in Exon 6 of the PROC Gene
Authors: Soria José Manuel , Morell Marta , Jimeénez-Astorga Carmen , Estivill Xavier , Sala Nuúria
Published: July 2018

We report the genetic abnormalities in the protein C genes of a Spanish child with neonatal purpura fulminans and disseminated intravascular coagulation, associated with undetectable protein C levels. Direct sequencing of the nine protein C gene exons and their splice junctions indicated that the proband is a compound heterozygote with two mutant protein C gene alleles, Y124C and Q132X, that do not express protein C in plasma. The Y124C mutation was inherited from the mother and is due to a novel A to G transition at nucleotide 3416, which results in the substitution of cysteine for tyrosine 124, a highly conserved amino acid in EGF-like domains. The paternal inherited mutation (Q132X) is a C to T transition at nucleotide 3439, which replaces glutamine 132 with a Stop codon signal. This mutation, if expressed, should result in the synthesis of a truncated protein of 131 amino acids. Y124C or Q132X are present in the heterozygous state in the asymptomatic parents and siblings of the proband, all of which have half the normal plasma levels of protein C. Q123X has also been identified in families where type I PC deficiency is inherited as a clinically dominant trait. Therefore, the presence of the same mutation in a family showing a clinically recessive pattern of inheritance indicates that other factors, apart from the type of protein C gene mutation, are responsible for the clinical expression of protein C deficiency.
Increased Thromboxane Biosynthesis in Essential Thrombocythemia
Authors: Rocca Bianca , Ciabattoni Giovanni , Tartaglione Raffaele , Cortelazzo Sergio , Barbui Tiziano , Patrono Carlo , Landolfi Raffaele
Published: July 2018

In order to investigate the in vivo thromboxane (TX) biosynthesis in essential thromboeythemia (ET), we measured the urinary exeretion of the major enzymatic metabolites of TXB2, 11-dehydro-TXB2 and 2,3-dinor-TXB2 in 40 ET patients as well as in 26 gender- and age-matched controls. Urinary 11-dehydro-TXB2 was significantly higher (p <0.001) in thrombocythemic patients (4,063 ± 3,408 pg/mg creatinine; mean ± SD) than in controls (504 ± 267 pg/mg creatinine), with 34 patients (85%) having 11-dehydro-TXB2 >2 SD above the control mean. Patients with platelet number <1,000 × 109/1 (n = 25) had significantly higher (p <0.05) 11 -dehydro-TXB2 excretion than patients with higher platelet count (4,765 ± 3,870 pg/mg creatinine, n = 25, versus 2,279 ± 1,874 pg/mg creatinine, n = 15). Average excretion values of patients aging >55 was significantly higher than in the younger group (4,784 ± 3,948 pg/mg creatinine, n = 24, versus 2,405 ± 1,885 pg/mg creatinine, n = 16, p <0.05). Low-dose aspirin (50 mg/d for 7 days) largely suppressed 11-dehydro-TXB2 excretion in 7 thrombocythemic patients, thus suggesting that platelets were the main source of enhanced TXA2 biosynthesis. The platelet count-corrected 11-dehydro-TXB2 excretion was positively correlated with age (r = 0.325, n = 40, p <0.05) and inversely correlated with platelet count (r = -0.381, n = 40, p <0.05). In addition 11 out of 13 (85%) patients having increased count-corrected 11-dehydro-TXB2 excretion, belonged to the subgroup with age >55 and platelet count <1,000 × 1099/1. We conclude that in essential thrombocythemia: 1) enhanced 11-dehydro-TXB2 excretion largely reflects platelet activation in vivo;2) age as well as platelet count appear to influence the determinants of platelet activation in this setting, and can help in assessing the thrombotic risk and therapeutic strategy in individual patients.
Plasma Levels of Protein S, Protein C, and Factor X: Effects of Sex, Hormonal State and Age
Authors: Henkens C M A , Bom V J J , Schaaf W van der , Pelsma P M , Sibinga C Th Smit , Kam P J de , Meer J van der
Published: July 2018

We measured total and free protein S (PS), protein C (PC) and factor X (FX) in 393 healthy blood donors to assess differences in relation to sex, hormonal state and age. All measured proteins were lower in women as compared to men, as were levels in premenopausal women as compared to postmenopausal women. Multiple regression analysis showed that both age and subgroup (men, pre- and postmenopausal women) were of significance for the levels of total and free PS and PC, the subgroup effect being caused by the differences between the premenopausal women and the other groups. This indicates a role of sex-hormones, most likely estrogens, in the regulation of levels of pro- and anticoagulant factors under physiologic conditions. These differences should be taken into account in daily clinical practice and may necessitate different normal ranges for men, pre- and postmenopausal women.
Venous Antithrombotic and Anticoagulant Activities of a Fucoïdan Fraction
Authors: Mauray Sandrine , Sternberg Claude , Theveniaux Jocelyne , Millet Jean , Sinquin Corinne , Tapon-Bretaudiére Jacqueline , Fischer Anne-Marie
Published: July 2018

Fucoïdans catalyse thrombin inhibition by antithrombin (AT) and heparin cofactor II (HCII); their affinity for each serpin varies according to the seaweed species from which they are extracted, as well as their chemical composition and molecular weight. We extracted a homogeneous fucoïdan fraction from Ascophyllum nodosum, a brown seaweed, and tested its anticoagulant and antithrombotic activities. At a fucoïdan concentration of 3.75 µg/ml, thrombin inhibition mediated by AT showed an apparent second-order rate constant (kapp) of 2 × 108 M-1 min-1, compared to 1.5 × 106 M-1 min-1 for the uncatalyzed reaction. The kapp value of thrombin inhibition via HCII was 1.17 × 109 M-1 min-1 at a fucoïdan concentration of 50 µg/ml, compared to 1.72 × 105 M-1 min-1 for the uncatalyzed reaction. In a Wessler model of venous thrombosis, the fucoïdan fraction, injected intravenously to rabbits 10 min before thrombosis induction, exhibited antithrombotic activity: 1.8 mg/kg was the dose which inhibited F Xa-induced thrombus formation by 80% (ED80), compared to a heparin ED80 of 0.1 mg/kg. At this ED80 the antithrombotic effect of the fucoïdan persisted longer than that of heparin (30 min versus 15 min). The thrombin clotting time (TCT) was significantly prolonged (73 s versus control 29 s, compared to 53 s with heparin) 10 min after a fucoïdan bolus infusion giving a plasma fucoïdan concentration of 14.6 ± 2.7 µg/ml. The bleeding time was slightly increased after fucoïdan infusion at the ED80. Fucoïdan extracted from marine flora thus shows promise as an antithrombotic drug.
Individual Variations in the Fibrinolytic Response During and After Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Chandler W L , Fitch J C K , Wall M H , Verrier E D , Cochran R P , Soltow L O , Spiess B D
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this study was to determine whether individual patients show different patterns of fibrinolytic response to cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and whether preoperative or intraoperative parameters were predictive of these different patterns. Active t-PA, active PAI-1 and total t-PA antigen were measured in plasma samples obtained from 38 subjects, age 32 to 85 (median 69 years), before, during and after CPB. Four patterns of fibrinolytic response were noted: 1) 40% of patients showed the “typical” response, a rapid rise in active and total t-PA during CPB followed postoperatively by elevated PAI-I and reduced t-PA, 2) 10% showed no change in t-PA or PAI-1 during or after CPB, 3) 24% showed no change in t-PA with an increase in PAI-1 postoperatively, and 4) 26% showed an increase in t-PA during CPB with no change in PAI-1 postoperatively. When present, the t-PA response was rapid, occurring within the first 30 min of CPB and was more common in patients undergoing valve surgery than in coronary artery bypass grafting (p <0.005). Increased levels of PAI-1 postoperatively were associated with ischemic times greater than 70 min (p = 0.003) but not with the total length of CPB. Age, sex, CPB temperature, total CPB time and preoperative levels of t-PA and PAI-1 were not associated in the intra- or postoperative fibrinolytic response pattern. We conclude that the fibrinolytic response to CPB is heterogeneous. Further studies will be needed to determine whether different response patterns are clinically significant.