bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water‐induced degradations in MWCNT embedded glass fiber/epoxy composites: An emphasis on aging temperature
Authors: Prusty Rajesh Kumar , Rathore Dinesh Kumar , Ray Bankim Chandra
Published: November 2017

This article is focused to elucidate the critical influence of diffusion temperature on the water uptake and subsequent degradation behavior of multi‐walled carbon nanotube embedded glass fiber/epoxy (MWCNT‐GE) composite. Presence of MWCNT in the glass fiber/epoxy (GE) composite significantly suppressed its water absorption propensity at lower aging temperature (25 °C). However, MWCNT reinforcement in GE composite adversely affected its high temperature water resistance due to generation of unfavorable thermal and hygroscopic stresses at the MWCNT/polymer interfaces. Effect of MWCNT and water diffusion temperature on the glass transition temperature and chemical bonding characteristics of GE composite have been verified by differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy. Flexural testing of the water saturated samples revealed that diffused water exerts more detrimental effect on mechanical performance of MWCNT‐GE composite than that of control GE composite. The extent of recovery in mechanical performance of the composites has also been evaluated after complete desorption of the water saturated samples. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45987.
Ontogeny of the Postcranial Axial Skeleton ofMelanosuchus niger(Crocodylia, Alligatoridae)
Authors: Vieira LucéLia Gonçalves , Lima Fabiano Campos , Mendonôa Sônia Helena Santesso Teixeira , Menezes Lorena Tannús , Hirano Líria Queiroz Luz , Santos André Luiz Quagliatto
Published: November 2017

This study proposes the description of the development of the postcranial axial skeleton, including vertebrae, gastralium, ribs, sternum, and interclavicle, inMelanosuchus niger. Six nests were marked and two eggs removed from each nest at 24‐hr intervals until hatching. For posthatching evaluation, 30 hatchlings were kept in captivity and one exemplar was euthanized at three‐day intervals. Samples were diaphanized using potassium hydroxide (KOH), alizarin red S, and Alcian blue. A routinely generally used method was applied for histological evaluation. It was difficult to define in which vertebrae the development of cartilaginous centers began, but it was possible to observe that this condensation advanced in the craniocaudal direction. The condensation started in the vertebral arches and was visibly stronger in the cervical and dorsal regions, advancing to the lumbar, sacral and, last, to the caudal region. The atlas showed a highly different morphology compared with the other cervical vertebrae, with a short intercenter, two neural arches, and a proatlas. The ossification process began in the body of cervical vertebrae III to VIII and alizarin retention decreased in the last vertebrae, indicating a craniocaudal direction in bone development, similar to cartilage formation. In the histological sections of gastralium and interclavicles ofM. nigerat several development stages, it was possible to observe that these elements showed intramembranous development. Anat Rec, 301:607–623, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Visualization Within the Ventricles of the Brain: A Micro‐Focus X‐Ray Study
Authors: de Jager Edwin John , Du Plessis André Francois , Hoffman Jakobus Willem , Oettlé Anna Catherina , Bosman Marius Casparus
Published: November 2017

Conceptualization of the ventricular system of the brain by macroscopic studies is complicated by the lack of physical structure of these interconnected cavities. Dissection procedures designed to display the structures in the walls of the ventricles are destructive and not conducive for the appreciation of the ventricular system in its entirety. The application of Micro‐focus X‐ray tomography affords the possibility to appreciate hidden structures in a nondestructive manner. The aim of this study was to explore the possibility of using micro‐focus X‐ray tomography in the three‐dimensional (3D) visualization of the ventricular system as well as the various neuroanatomical structures within its walls for educational purposes. Randomly selected embalmed human cadaver brains were scanned at Necsa (South African Nuclear Energy Corporation) housing the MIXRAD laboratory consisting of a Nikon XTH 225 ST micro‐focus X‐ray tomography facility. A 3D flythrough video of the ventricular system was reconstructed from these scans using software to view the inner surface of the ventricles. Micro‐focus X‐ray tomography provides feasible means of delivering high‐resolution images in a nondestructive way to design a representation of the ventricular system. In addition, structures in the walls of the ventricular system could be appreciated in a novel way. It is envisaged that this 3D‐fly‐through video of the ventricular system will be valuable when integrated with standard prosections and atlas pictures in the educational setting. Further studies evaluating the use of this integrative visualization of the ventricular system of the brain for its applicability in the educational setting should be performed. Anat Rec, 301:1138–1147, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Cellular Composition and Glia–Neuron Ratio in the Spinal Cord of a Human and a Nonhuman Primate: Comparison With Other Species and Brain Regions
Authors: Bahney Jami , von Bartheld Christopher S.
Published: November 2017

The cellular composition of brains shows largely conserved, gradual evolutionary trends between species. In the primate spinal cord, however, the glia–neuron ratio was reported to be greatly increased over that in the rodent spinal cord. Here, we re‐examined the cellular composition of the spinal cord of one human and one nonhuman primate species by employing two different counting methods, the isotropic fractionator and stereology. We also determined whether segmental differences in cellular composition, possibly reflecting increased fine motor control of the upper extremities, may explain a sharply increased glia–neuron ratio in primates. In the cynomolgus monkey spinal cord, the isotropic fractionator and stereology yielded 206–275 million cells, of which 13.3–25.1% were neurons (28–69 million). Stereological estimates yielded 21.1% endothelial cells and 65.5% glial cells (glia–neuron ratio of 4.9–5.6). In human spinal cords, the isotropic fractionator and stereology generated estimates of 1.5–1.7 billion cells and 197–222 million neurons (13.4% neurons, 12.2% endothelial cells, 74.8% glial cells), and a glia–neuron ratio of 5.6–7.1, with estimates of neuron numbers in the human spinal cord based on morphological criteria. The non‐neuronal to neuron ratios in human and cynomolgus monkey spinal cords were 6.5 and 3.2, respectively, suggesting that previous reports overestimated this ratio. We did not find significant segmental differences in the cellular composition between cervical, thoracic and lumbar levels. When compared with brain regions, the spinal cord showed gradual increases of the glia–neuron ratio with increasing brain mass, similar to the cerebral cortex and the brainstem. Anat Rec, 301:697–710, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modulation of IgG1 immunoeffector function by glycoengineering of the GDP‐fucose biosynthesis pathway
Authors: Kelly Ronan M. , Kowle Ronald L. , Lian Zhirui , Strifler Beth A. , Witcher Derrick R. , Parekh Bhavin S. , Wang Tongtong , Frye Christopher C.
Published: November 2017

Cross‐linking of the Fcγ receptors expressed on the surface of hematopoietic cells by IgG immune complexes triggers the activation of key immune effector mechanisms, including antibody‐dependent cell mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). A conserved N‐glycan positioned at the N‐terminal region of the IgG CH2 domain is critical in maintaining the quaternary structure of the molecule for Fcγ receptor engagement. The removal of a single core fucose residue from the N‐glycan results in a considerable increase in affinity for FcγRIIIa leading to an enhanced receptor‐mediated immunoeffector function. The enhanced potency of the molecule translates into a number of distinct advantages in the development of IgG antibodies for cancer therapy. In an effort to significantly increase the potency of an anti‐CD20, IgG1 molecule, we selectively targeted the de novo GDP‐fucose biosynthesis pathway of the host CHO cell line to generate >80% afucosylated IgG1 resulting in enhanced FcγRIIIa binding (13‐fold) and in vitro ADCC cell‐based activity (11‐fold). In addition, this effective glycoengineering strategy also allowed for the utilization of the alternate GDP‐fucose salvage pathway to provide a fast and efficient mechanism to manipulate the N‐glycan fucosylation level to modulate IgG immune effector function.
Design of a novel continuous flow reactor for low pH viral inactivation
Authors: Parker Stephanie A. , Amarikwa Linus , Vehar Kevin , Orozco Raquel , Godfrey Scott , Coffman Jon , Shamlou Parviz , Bardliving Cameron L.
Published: November 2017

Insufficient mixing in laminar flow reactors due to diffusion‐dominated flow limits their use in applications where narrow residence time distribution (RTD) is required. The aim of this study was to design and characterize a laminar flow (Re 187.7–375.5) tubular reactor for low pH viral inactivation with enhanced radial mixing via the incorporation of curvature and flow inversions. Toward this aim, the reactor described here, Jig in a Box (JIB), was designed with a flow path consisting of alternating 270° turns. The design was optimized by considering the strength of secondary flows characterized by the Dean No., the corresponding secondary flow development length, and the reactor turn lengths. Comprehensive CFD analysis of the reactor centerline velocity profile, cross‐sectional velocity, and secondary flow streamlines confirmed enhanced radial mixing due to secondary flows and changes in flow direction. For initial CFD and experimental studies the reactor was limited to a 16.43 m length. Pulse tracer studies for the reactor were computationally simulated and experimentally generated to determine the RTD, RTD variance, and minimum residence time for the tracer fluid elements leaving the reactor, as well as to validate the computational model. The reactor was scaled length wise to increase incubation time and it was observed that as the reactor length increases the RTD variance increases linearly and the dimensionless RTD profile becomes more symmetrical and tighter about the mean residence time.
Photoautotrophic production of macular pigment in a Chlamydomonas reinhardtii strain generated by using DNA‐free CRISPR‐Cas9 RNP‐mediated mutagenesis
Authors: Baek Kwangryul , Yu Jihyeon , Jeong Jooyeon , Sim Sang Jun , Bae Sangsu , Jin EonSeon
Published: November 2017

Lutein and zeaxanthin are dietary carotenoids reported to be protective against age‐related macular degeneration. Recently, the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii has received attention as a photosynthetic cell factory, but the potential of this alga for carotenoid production has not yet been evaluated. In this study, we selected the C. reinhardtii CC‐4349 strain as the best candidate among seven laboratory strains tested for carotenoid production. A knock‐out mutant of the zeaxanthin epoxidase gene induced by preassembled DNA‐free CRISPR‐Cas9 ribonucleoproteins in the CC‐4349 strain had a significantly higher zeaxanthin content (56‐fold) and productivity (47‐fold) than the wild type without the reduction in lutein level. Furthermore, we produced eggs fortified with lutein (2‐fold) and zeaxanthin (2.2‐fold) by feeding hens a diet containing the mutant. Our results clearly demonstrate the possibility of cost‐effective commercial use of microalgal mutants induced by DNA‐free CRISPR‐Cas9 ribonucleoproteins in algal biotechnology for the production of high‐value products.
Sustaining an efficient and effective CHO cell line development platform by incorporation of 24‐deep well plate screening and multivariate analysis
Authors: Mora Alessandro , Zhang Sheng (Sam) , Carson Gerald , Nabiswa Bernard , Hossler Patrick , Yoon Seongkyu
Published: November 2017

Efficient and effective cell line screening is paramount toward a successful biomanufacturing program. Here we describe the implementation of 24‐deep well plate (24‐DWP) screening of CHO lines as part of the cell line development platform at AbbVie. Incorporation of this approach accelerated the identification of the best candidate lines for process development. In an effort to quantify and predict process performance comparability, we compared cell culture performance in and in shake flasks, for a panel of Chinese Hamster Ovary cell lines expressing a monoclonal antibody. The results in 24‐DWP screening showed reduced growth profiles, but comparable viability profiles. Slow growers in 24‐DWP achieved the highest productivity improvement upon scaling‐up to shake flasks. Product quality of the protein purified from shake flasks and 24‐DWP were also compared. The 24‐DWP culture conditions were found to influence the levels of acidic species, reduce the G0 N‐glycan species, and increase the high‐mannose N‐glycan species. Nevertheless, the identification of undesirable profiles is executed consistently with the scaled‐up culture. We further employed multivariate data analysis to capture differences depending on the two scales and we could demonstrate that cell line profiles were adequately clustered, regardless of the vessel used for the development. In conclusion, the 24‐DWP platform was reasonably predictive of the parameters crucial for upstream process development activities, and has been adapted as part of the AbbVie cell line development platform. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:175–186, 2018
Pretreatment advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI) for predicting early progression in nivolumab‐treated patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Shiroyama Takayuki , Suzuki Hidekazu , Tamiya Motohiro , Tamiya Akihiro , Tanaka Ayako , Okamoto Norio , Nakahama Kenji , Taniguchi Yoshihiko , Isa Shun‐ichi , Inoue Takako , Imamura Fumio , Atagi Shinji , Hirashima Tomonori
Published: November 2017

Programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression status is inadequate for indicating nivolumab in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Because the baseline advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI) is reportedly associated with patient outcomes, we investigated whether the pretreatment ALI is prognostic in NSCLC patients treated with nivolumab. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients treated with nivolumab for advanced NSCLC between December 2015 and May 2016 at three Japanese institutes. Multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the impact of the pretreatment ALI (and other inflammation‐related parameters) on progression‐free survival (PFS) and early progression (i.e., within 8 weeks after starting nivolumab). A total of 201 patients were analyzed; their median age was 68 years (range, 27–87 years), 67% were men, and 24% had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 2 or higher. An ECOG performance status ≥2, serum albumin <3.7 g/dL, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio ≥4, and ALI <18 were significantly associated with poor PFS and early progression on univariate analysis. Multivariate analyses revealed that pretreatment ALI <18 was independently associated with inferior PFS (median, 1.4 vs. 3.7 months, P < 0.001) and a higher likelihood of early progression (odds ratio, 2.76; 95% confidence interval 1.44–5.34; P = 0.002). The pretreatment ALI was found to be a significant independent predictor of early progression in patients with advanced NSCLC receiving nivolumab, and may help identify patients likely to benefit from continued nivolumab treatment in routine clinical practice.
PKG II effectively reversed EGF‐induced protein expression alterations in human gastric cancer cell lines
Authors: Qian Hai , Tao Yan , Jiang Lu , Wang Ying , Lan Ting , Wu Min , Pang Ji , Appiah‐Kubi Kwaku , Chen Yongchang , Wu Yan
Published: November 2017

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in gastric cancer (GC) progression. Our previous data demonstrated that type II cGMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKG II) could block the EGF‐EGFR axis as well as down‐stream signaling pathways, for example, MAPK, PI3 K, and PLC in GC cells. However, the exact mechanisms of PKG II against cancer remain unclear. Therefore, the present work was to address the above question. Human GC cell line AGS was infected with adenoviral construct encoding cDNA of PKG II (Ad‐PKG II) to up‐regulate PKG II and then treated with 8‐pCPT‐cGMP. Two‐dimensional electrophoresis (2‐DE) was used to analyze the changes of protein expression in the cells. The results showed that 17 proteins had more than twofold changes in EGF‐treated group compared with control. However, Ad‐PKG II could effectively reversed the changes. Furthermore, far upstream element‐binding protein 1 (FUBP1) and MarvelD3 were chosen and PKG II activation reversed EGF/EGFR‐induced up‐regulation of FUBP1 and downregulation of MarvelD3, respectively. MarvelD3 silence effectively abolished the inhibitory effect of PKG II on EGF‐triggered migration. These data indicated that the inhibitory effect of PKG II partially was associated with MarvelD3.
Migration of emboli in the retinal artery: case report
Authors: Stepanov Alexandr , Machackova Marketa , Rehakova Tereza , Jiraskova Nada , Lestak Jan
Published: November 2017

Key Clinical Message

Branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) is a prevalent vascular occlusive disorder of the eye. In transient BRAO, an embolus temporarily blocks the vessel and then moves on resulting in recovery of blood circulation. In this case, we have documented migration of the embolus with recovery of perfusion of the retina and improvement of visual acuity in a patient with transient BRAO. Early diagnosis and fast action are important in the case of patients with retinal artery occlusion.
Construction of NiTe/NiSe Composites on Ni Foam for High‐Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitor
Authors: Ye Beirong , Huang Miaoliang , Bao Quanlin , Jiang Si , Ge Jinhua , Zhao Huang , Fan Leqing , Lin Jianming , Wu Jihuai
Published: November 2017

NiTe/NiSe composites grown in situ on Ni foam are successfully developed as a binder‐free electrode for supercapacitors. The as‐obtained NiTe/NiSe composite electrode exhibits excellent electrochemical properties with a higher specific capacitance of 1868 F g−1 (5.60 F cm−2) at a current density of 1 A g−1. In addition, an asymmetric supercapacitor is fabricated with NiTe/NiSe as the positive material and active carbon (AC) as the negative material. The resulting NiTe/NiSe//AC device exhibits a high energy density of 33.7 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 800 W kg−1, providing good cycling performance that retained 86.2 % of the initial capacitance at 2 A g−1 after 5000 cycles. All of the results illustrate that the NiTe/NiSe electrode is promising for potential application in supercapacitors and other fields.
Kinetics of simultaneous oxidation of CO‐CH4 over Pd‐K promoted NiCo2O4/γ‐Al2O3 catalyst
Authors: Trivedi Suverna , Prasad Ram
Published: November 2017

An optimum formulation of 0.1 %Pd‐2 %K40 %NiCo2O4/Al2O3 spinel catalyst was found for the total oxidation of CO‐CH4 mixture at the lowest temperature of 330 °C, which has never been reported before. No reaction kinetics have been reported for simultaneous catalytic oxidation of CO‐CH4 mixture in the literature. In this paper, intrinsic kinetics for oxidation of CO‐CH4 mixture over the spinel catalyst were presented. The experimental data were collected in a plug flow differential reactor at steady state in the kinetic controlled regime under the following reaction conditions: catalyst weight 0.1–0.5 g, flow rate of CO and CH4 1.5 mL/min each in air with total flow of 100 mL/min, temperature range 318–333 K, and reactant conversion < 15 %. The experimental data collected in the regime free from heat and mass transfer limitations were fitted adequately by the power law rate model. The orders of the simultaneous oxidation reactions were found to be 1.05 and 1.12 with respect to CO and CH4 in the mixture respectively. The apparent activation energies for CO and CH4 oxidation were 54.6 and 26.11 kJ/mol respectively.
Application of Mineral‐Based Amendments for Enhancing Phytostabilization in Lolium perenne L. Cultivation
Authors: Radziemska Maja , Bilgin Ayla , Vaverková Magdalena D.
Published: November 2017

An experimental investigation is conducted to explore the suitability of Lolium perenne L., diatomite, chalcedonite, dolomite, and limestone for the phytostabilization of Ni and Cu in contaminated soil. A controlled greenhouse study is conducted. The soil is enriched with rising dose of Cu and Ni, that is, (0, 150, 250, and 350 mg kg−1) and (0, 150, 300, and 450 mg kg−1), respectively. The phytostabilization potential of perennial ryegrass is evaluated using a bioaccumulation coefficient and translocation factor. Pseudo‐total and available metal content (0.01 M CaCl2) in soils and bioaccumulated content in plants are defined in laboratory experiments using spectrophotometry experimental technique. L. perenne is adequate in phytostabilization aided programs, simultaneously, diatomite, chalcedonite, dolomite, and limestone used as modifiers are effective in reducing the accessibility and mobility of metals in Cu‐ and Ni‐polluted soils. The finding of the present study suggests that the studied element in the roots and above‐ground parts of L. perenne differs significantly upon applying mineral‐based modifications to the soil, synchronously the effect of increasing Cu and Ni levels. Application of dolomite and limestone to the soil cause the highest percentage of the above‐ground biomass. Diatomite along with limestone cause a significant boost of Cu and Ni absorption in the roots. Limestone causes an increase in the contents of K, Na, and Ca, as well as a reduction in P in the above‐ground parts of L. perenne. Limestone and chalcedonite leads to the highest decrease in available Cu and Ni.
Comparative Assessment of Sludge Pre‐Treatment Techniques to Enhance Sludge Dewaterability and Biogas Production
Authors: Tas Didem Okutman , Yangin‐Gomec Cigdem , Olmez‐Hanci Tugba , Arikan Osman A. , Cifci Deniz I. , Gencsoy Elif B. , Ekdal Alpaslan , Ubay‐Cokgor Emine
Published: November 2017

Effectiveness of ultrasonication, microwave technologies, and enzyme addition prior to anaerobic digestion is investigated using sludge samples taken from the secondary settling tank of a domestic wastewater treatment plant to improve methane production, enhance dewaterability characteristics of the sludge, and to reduce excess sludge. Microwave pre‐treatment (1500 W, 10 min at 175 °C) results in better extra digester performance (compared to the control reactor) in terms of methane production (25 m3 ton−1 suspended solids (SS)) than ultrasound (no improvement) and enzyme pre‐treatment (11 m3 ton−1 SS). While methane production is not improved as a result of ultrasonication pre‐treatment (15 000 kJ kg−1 SS), a noticeable increase (19%) is observed in the case of microwave pre‐treatment. Higher compactibility values are obtained after ultrasonication and microwave application compared to the control (i.e., from 7.1 to 8.7 and 9.2%, respectively) before anaerobic digestion. Although ultrasonication and microwave application decrease the dewaterability of the raw sludge (capillary suction time (CST) from 827 to 1364 and 2290 s, respectively), similar dewaterability results are obtained at the end of the anaerobic digestion process for all pre‐treated sludge samples. An economic assessment of this study shows that pre‐treatment with microwave results in more than 10‐fold less net cost compared to the enzyme application.
Peripheral Substitution of Tetraphenyl Porphyrins: Fine‐Tuning Self‐Assembly for Enhanced Electroluminescence
Authors: Charisiadis Asterios , Bagaki Anthi , Fresta Elisa , Weber Katharina T. , Charalambidis Georgios , Stangel Christina , Hatzidimitriou Antonios G. , Angaridis Panagiotis A. , Coutsolelos Athanassios G. , Costa Rubén D.
Published: November 2017

This study reports the synthesis of two novel zinc porphyrin families bearing four or eight alkoxy chains at their peripheral phenyl rings, with the length of the alkoxy chains ranging from 2, to 6, and to 12 carbon atoms. All zinc porphyrin derivatives were fully characterized with respect to their photophysical and electrochemical features. The zinc porphyrins could be processed into thin films which, depending on the length of the alkoxy chains on the aryl substituents, were found to be either of an ordered or a disordered nature, as it is revealed by spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The films containing ordered self‐assemblies displayed significantly enhanced electrical conductivity compared to the disordered films. This led to remarkable differences regarding their electroluminescence response that occurs at lower bias. Furthermore, their luminous efficiency was of almost one order of magnitude higher than that of disordered films.
Synthesis of Nontoxic Protoflavone Derivatives through Selective Continuous‐Flow Hydrogenation of the Flavonoid B‐Ring
Authors: Ötvös Sándor B. , Vágvölgyi Máté , Girst Gábor , Kuo Ching‐Ying , Wang Hui‐Chun , Fülöp Ferenc , Hunyadi Attila
Published: November 2017

Protoflavones are unique natural flavonoids with a non‐aromatic B‐ring, known for their potent antitumor properties. However, their cytotoxicity represents a strong limitation in the further exploration of their pharmacological potential. In the current study, we sought to selectively saturate the p‐quinol B‐ring of protoapigenone and that of its 1′‐O‐butyl ether, in order to obtain non‐toxic protoflavone analogues expressing the dihydro‐ or tetrahydroprotoflavone structure also occurring in nature. The benefits of a strictly controlled continuous‐flow environment in combination with on‐demand electrolytic H2 gas generation were exploited to suppress undesired side reactions and to safely and selectively yield the desired substances. The obtained tetrahydroprotoflavones were free of the cytotoxicity of their parent compounds, and, even though tetrahydroprotoapigenone 1‐O‐butyl ether showed a weak inhibition of DNA damage response through Chk1, neither compounds influenced the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin either.
Synthesis of a novel polymeric magnetic solid phase extraction adsorbent for selective extraction of amphetamine from urine samples coupled with high performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Taghvimi Arezou , Ghorbani Marjan , Hamishehkar Hamed
Published: November 2017

A novel pH‐responsive block copolymer (Poly ethylene glycol‐b‐poly (N,N‐dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate‐co‐maleic acid) was designed for the decoration and stabilization of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) as an efficient magnetic nano adsorbent for extraction of amphetamine (AM) from biological urine samples to be determined by high performance liquid chromatography–ultra violet detector (HPLC–UV). Full characterization of the synthesized polymeric magnetic nanoparticles (PMNPs) were followed by various techniques like Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR) spectroscopy, powder x‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Important extraction parameters including pH, amount of sample volume, amount of adsorbent, type and amount of extraction organic solvent, time of extraction and desorption, agitation rate (rpm), and ionic strength of the extraction medium were studied and optimized. Under optimized extraction conditions, good linearity was observed in the concentration range of 30–2000 ng/mL for AM. The amount of the qe was calculated as 0.18 (mg/g). The method was applied in determination of AM from positive urine samples with the recovery of 99.84%. Results indicated that the proposed method could be applied in clinical and forensic laboratories for simple, selective, and fast determination of AM from urine samples.
Sensitivity of doping biomarkers after administration of a single dose testosterone gel
Authors: Mullen Jenny , Börjesson Annica , Hopcraft Oscar , Schulze Jenny J. , Ericsson Magnus , Rane Anders , Lehtihet Mikael , Ekström Lena
Published: November 2017

Micro‐doping with testosterone (T) is challenging to detect with the current doping tests. Today, the methods available to detect T are longitudinally monitoring of urine biomarkers in the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) and measuring the isotopic composition of excreted biomarkers to distinguish the origin of the molecule. In this study, we investigated the detectability of a single dose of 100 mg T gel in 8 healthy male subjects. We also studied which biomarkers were most sensitive to T gel administration, including blood biomarkers. The ABP successfully detected T gel administration in all 8 subjects. The most sensitive ratio was 5αAdiol/E, however, all ratios showed atypical findings. Isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) was performed on 5 subjects and only 2 met all the criteria for a positive test according to the rules set by the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA). The other 3 showed inconclusive results. Other markers that were affected by T gel administration, not used for this detection today, were serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and T as well as reticulocyte count and percentage in whole blood. miRNA‐122 was not significantly affected by the single T dose. A single dose of 100 mg T gel is possible to detect with today's doping tests. Since a single dose of T gel has an impact on some hematological biomarkers, access to both modules of the ABP when evaluating the athletes' profiles will increase the possibility to detect micro‐doses of T. In addition, serum DHT and T may be a useful addition to the future endocrine module of the ABP.
DNA barcoding of reef brittle stars (Ophiuroidea, Echinodermata) from the southwestern Indian Ocean evolutionary hot spot of biodiversity
Authors: Boissin Emilie , Hoareau Thierry Bernard , Paulay Gustav , Bruggemann J. Henrich
Published: November 2017

In anticipation of the current biodiversity crisis, it has become critical to rapidly and accurately assess biodiversity. DNA barcoding has proved efficient in facilitating the discovery and description of thousands of species and also provides insight into the dynamics of biodiversity. Here, we sequenced a portion of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene from all morphospecies of reef brittle stars collected during a large‐scale biodiversity survey in the southwestern Indian Ocean (SWIO). Three methods of species delineation (Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery, Generalized Mixed Yule Coalescent model, and Bayesian Poisson Tree Processes) showed concordant results and revealed 51 shallow reef species in the region. Mean intraspecific genetic distances (0.005–0.064) and mean interspecific genetic distances within genera (0.056–0.316) were concordant with previous echinoderm studies. This study revealed that brittle‐star biodiversity is underestimated by 20% within SWIO and by >40% when including specimens from the Pacific Ocean. Results are discussed in terms of endemism, diversification processes, and conservation implications for the Indo‐West Pacific marine biodiversity. We emphasize the need to further our knowledge on biodiversity of invertebrate groups in peripheral areas.
Do large‐seeded herbs have a small range size? The seed mass–distribution range trade‐off hypothesis
Authors: Sonkoly Judit , Deák Balázs , Valkó Orsolya , Molnár V. Attila , Tóthmérész Béla , Török Péter
Published: November 2017

We aimed to introduce and test the “seed mass–distribution range trade‐off” hypothesis, that is, that range size is negatively related to seed mass due to the generally better dispersal ability of smaller seeds. Studying the effects of environmental factors on the seed mass and range size of species, we also aimed to identify habitats where species may be at risk and need extra conservation effort to avoid local extinctions. We collected data for seed mass, global range size, and indicators for environmental factors of the habitat for 1,600 species of the Pannonian Ecoregion (Central Europe) from the literature. We tested the relationship between species’ seed mass, range size, and indicator values for soil moisture, light intensity, and nutrient supply. We found that seed mass is negatively correlated with range size; thus, a seed mass–distribution range trade‐off was validated based on the studied large species pool. We found increasing seed mass with decreasing light intensity and increasing nutrient availability, but decreasing seed mass with increasing soil moisture. Range size increased with increasing soil moisture and nutrient supply, but decreased with increasing light intensity. Our results supported the hypothesis that there is a trade‐off between seed mass and distribution range. We found that species of habitats characterized by low soil moisture and nutrient values but high light intensity values have small range size. This emphasizes that species of dry, infertile habitats, such as dry grasslands, could be more vulnerable to habitat fragmentation or degradation than species of wet and fertile habitats. The remarkably high number of species and the use of global distribution range in our study support our understanding of global biogeographic processes and patterns that are essential in defining conservation priorities.
The extracellular membrane‐proximal domain of membrane‐bound IgE restricts B cell activation by limiting B cell antigen receptor surface expression
Authors: Vanshylla Kanika , Opazo Felipe , Gronke Konrad , Wienands Jürgen , Engels Niklas
Published: November 2017

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies are key mediators of allergic reactions. Due to their potentially harmful anaphylactic properties, their production is tightly regulated. The membrane‐bound isoform of IgE (mIgE), which is an integral component of the B cell antigen receptor, has been shown to be critical for the regulation of IgE responses in mice. In primate species including humans, mIgE can be expressed in two isoforms that are produced by alternative splicing of the primary ε Ig heavy chain transcript, and differ in the absence or presence of an extracellular membrane‐proximal domain (EMPD) consisting of 52 amino acids. However, the function of the EMPD remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that the EMPD restricts surface expression of mIgE‐containing BCRs in human and murine B cells. The EMPD does not interfere with BCR assembly but acts as an autonomous endoplasmic reticulum retention domain. Limited surface expression of EMPD‐containing mIgE‐BCRs caused impaired activation of intracellular signaling cascades and hence represents a regulatory mechanism that may control the production of potentially anaphylactic IgE antibodies in primate species.
IL‐22 neutralizing autoantibodies impair fungal clearance in murine oropharyngeal candidiasis model
Authors: Bichele Rudolf , Kärner Jaanika , Truusalu Kai , Smidt Imbi , Mändar Reet , Conti Heather R. , Gaffen Sarah L. , Peterson Pärt , Laan Martti , Kisand Kai
Published: November 2017

Protection against mucocutaneous candidiasis depends on the T helper (Th)17 pathway, as gene defects affecting its integrity result in inability to clear Candida albicans infection on body surfaces. Moreover, autoantibodies neutralizing Th17 cytokines have been related to chronic candidiasis in a rare inherited disorder called autoimmune polyendocriopathy candidiasis ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) caused by mutations in autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene. However, the direct pathogenicity of these autoantibodies has not yet been addressed. Here we show that the level of anti‐IL17A autoantibodies that develop in aged Aire‐deficient mice is not sufficient for conferring susceptibility to oropharyngeal candidiasis. However, patient‐derived monoclonal antibodies that cross‐react with murine IL‐22 increase the fungal burden on C. albicans infected mucosa. Nevertheless, the lack of macroscopically evident infectious pathology on the oral mucosa of infected mice suggests that additional susceptibility factors are needed to precipitate a clinical disease.
PdII Complexes with N‐(Diadamantylphosphanyl)diaminocarbene and Related Ligands: Synthesis and Catalytic Applications in Intermolecular Alkyne Hydroaminations
Authors: Marchenko Anatoliy , Koidan Georgyi , Hurieva Anastasiya , Kostyuk Aleksandr , Franco Dario , Baron Marco , Biffis Andrea
Published: November 2017

A new N‐diadamantylphosphanyldiaminocarbene 5 is prepared, isolated, and characterized. The carbene appears to be much more stable than previously reported di‐tert‐butyl congeners. The molecular structure of the carbene is determined by X‐ray diffraction analysis. A new (diisopropylamino)(diadamantylphosphanyl)carbene 8 is also prepared in situ, but not isolated, since in this case, the adamantyl groups do not render the carbene more stable, with respect to previously known carbenes with di‐tert‐butyl substitution. Carbene 8 reacts in situ with phenylazide to give iminophosphane 9, which is also accessible from carbene 5 upon rearrangement under heating. Stable chelate PdII complexes are synthesized using both carbene 5 and iminophosphane 9 as ligands. The complex with ligand 9 displays very promising catalytic performance in the intermolecular hydroamination of alkynes with primary arylamines.
Application of [Co(Corrole)]– Complexes in Ring‐Closing C–H Amination of Aliphatic Azides via Nitrene Radical Intermediates
Authors: Goswami Monalisa , Geuijen Paul , Reek Joost. N. H. , de Bruin Bas
Published: November 2017

The synthesis, characterisation and application of anionic [CoII(Cor)]– (Cor = corrole) metalloradicals in the ring‐closing C–H amination of an aliphatic azide in the presence of Boc2O (Boc = tert‐butyloxycarbonyl) to give the corresponding Boc‐protected N‐heterocyclic product tert‐butyl 2‐phenylpyrrolidine‐1‐carboxylate are reported. This is the first example of the use of metalloradical cobalt(II) corrole complexes in nitrene‐transfer reactions. On the basis of DFT calculations, the reaction is proposed to proceed via discrete open‐shell nitrene radical intermediates bearing most of their spin density at the nitrene nitrogen atom. The [CoII(Cor)]– complexes are substantially faster catalysts than the corresponding neutral [CoII(porphyrin)] complexes when applied in the same ring‐closing C–H amination reaction under identical reaction conditions. Increasing the electron density at cobalt(II) therefore has a positive influence on the reaction rate.
HPLC‐DAD, ESI–MS/MS, and NMR of Lycopene Isolated From P. guajava L. and Its Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Amorim Adriany G. N. , Souza Jessica M. T. , Santos Raimunda C. , Gullón Beatriz , Oliveira Ana , Santos Luiz F. A. , Virgino Adamor L. E. , Mafud Ana C. , Petrilli Helena M. , Mascarenhas Yvonne P. , Delerue‐Matos Cristina , Pintado Manuela E. , Leite José R. S. A.
Published: November 2017

Psidium guajava L. have been reported to be a rich source of antioxidant compounds. Its carotenoids have been highlighted by their high antioxidant capacity, which offers several benefits for human health. In this sense, lycopene isomers need to be identified. In this work, the comprehensive chemical characterization, by HPLC‐DAD, MS/MS, and NMR, of lycopene isolated from P. guajava L., antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of lycopene extracts and isolated lycopene are evaluated. The FTIR results reported a structure with Z configuration, confirmed by UV‐Vis, with λmax = 448, 473, and 505 nm for 5‐Z lycopene. Furthermore, MS/MS positive ionization shows one fragment m/z 309 [M‐227]+, relatively abundant for isolated lycopene. Experimental and Theoretical NMR studies revealed that guava may contain 5‐Z lycopene because of the similarity found among the peaks. Lycopene extracts presented higher antioxidant activity than isolated lycopene, from both P. guajava L. and tomato, when measured by ABTS and ORAC (r2 = 0.9995 and r2 = 0.9992, respectively). In addition, lycopene extract shows antibacterial efficacy against E. coli, S. aureus, and L. innocua, presenting MBC values of 20 mg mL−1. These results suggest that lycopene extract have potential applicability for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industry.

Practical Applications: Lycopene from P. guajava L. is characterized by HPLC‐DAD, MS, NMR, FTIR, and X‐Ray, presented antioxidant capacity by ORAC and antibacterial efficacy against food pathogens.

Lycopene is isolated from P. guajava L., and lycopene extracts produced are characterized by HPLC‐DAD and ESI‐MS/MS. Lycopene isolated from P. guajava L. following the process may be 5‐Z isomer of lycopene.
Righteous or self‐righteous anger? Justice sensitivity moderates defensive outrage at a third‐party harm‐doer
Authors: Rothschild Zachary K. , Keefer Lucas A.
Published: November 2017

While bystanders' outrage over moral transgressions may represent a genuine desire to restore justice, such expressions can also be self‐serving—alleviating guilt and bolstering one's moral status. Four studies examined whether individual differences in observer justice sensitivity (JSO) moderate the degree to which outrage at third‐party harm‐doing reflects concerns about one's own moral identity rather than justice per se. Among participants low (vs. high) in JSO, feelings of guilt predicted greater outrage and desire to punish a corporation's sweatshop labor practices (Studies 1 & 2). Furthermore, affirming one's personal moral identity reduced outrage and support for punishing a corporate harm‐doer among those low, but not high in JSO (Studies 3 & 4). Similar moderation was absent for other forms of justice sensitivity and just world beliefs. Effects were not explained by negative affect, empathy, personal harm, or political orientation. Results suggest that JSO uniquely differentiates defensive and justice‐driven moral outrage (150/150).
iObjectify: Self‐ and other‐objectification on Grindr, a geosocial networking application designed for men who have sex with men
Authors: Anderson Joel R. , Holland Elise , Koc Yasin , Haslam Nick
Published: November 2017

Grindr is a smartphone application for men who have sex with men (MSM). Despite its reputation as a ‘hook‐up app’, little is known about its users' self‐presentation strategies and how this relates to objectification. This article explores objectification on Grindr. The results of Study 1 showed that Grindr users objectified other men more than non‐Grindr users. A content analysis of 1400 Grindr profiles in Study 2 showed that profile pictures with objectifying content were related to searching for sexual encounters. Finally, a survey of Grindr users in Study 3 revealed that objectification processes and sexualized profile pictures were related to some objectification‐relevant online behaviors (e.g., increased use of Grindr, discussion of HIV status). Interestingly, the presence of body focused profile content was more related to sexual orientation disclosure (not being ‘out’) than to objectification. This article presents evidence that Grindr usage and online presentation are related to objectification processes.
Genotoxicity of 11 heavy metals detected as food contaminants in two human cell lines
Authors: Kopp B. , Zalko D. , Audebert M.
Published: November 2017

Heavy metals, such as arsenic (As), antimony (Sb), barium (Ba), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), germanium (Ge), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), tellurium (Te), and vanadium (V) are widely distributed in the environment and in the food chain. Human exposure to heavy metals through water and food has been reported by different international agencies. Although some of these heavy metals are essential elements for human growth and development, they may also be toxic at low concentrations due to indirect mechanisms. In this study, the genotoxic and cytotoxic properties of 15 different oxidation statuses of 11 different heavy metals were investigated using high‐throughput screening (γH2AX assay) in two human cell lines (HepG2 and LS‐174T) representative of target organs (liver and colon) for food contaminants. Base on their lowest observed adverse effect concentration, the genotoxic potency of each heavy metal in each cell line was ranked in decreasing order, NaAsO2 > CdCl2 > PbCl2 (only in LS‐174T cells) > As2O5 > SbCl3 > K2TeO3 > As2O3. No significant genotoxicity was observed with the other heavy metals tested. Cell viability data indicate that several heavy metals (As, Cd, Co, Ni, Sb, and Te) induce cytotoxicity at high concentrations, whereas an increase in the number of cells was observed for lead concentrations >100 µM in both cell lines tested, suggesting that lead stimulates cell growth. All these results highlight the possible human health hazards associated with the presence of heavy metals present in food. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:202–210, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Daily Erosion Project – daily estimates of water runoff, soil detachment, and erosion
Authors: Gelder Brian , Sklenar Tim , James David , Herzmann Daryl , Cruse Richard , Gesch Karl , Laflen John
Published: November 2017

Water runoff and sediment transport from agricultural uplands are substantial threats to water quality and sustained crop production. To improve soil and water resources, farmers, conservationists, and policy‐makers must understand how landforms, soil types, farming practices, and rainfall interact with water runoff and soil erosion processes. To that end, the Iowa Daily Erosion Project (IDEP) was designed and implemented in 2003 to inventory these factors across Iowa in the United States. IDEP utilized the Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) soil erosion model along with radar‐derived precipitation data and government‐provided slope, soil, and management information to produce daily estimates of soil erosion and runoff at the township scale (93 km2 [36 mi2]). Improved national databases and evolving remote sensing technology now permit the derivation of slope, soil, and field‐level management inputs for WEPP. These remotely sensed parameters, along with more detailed meteorological data, now drive daily WEPP hillslope soil erosion and water runoff estimates at the small watershed scale, approximately 90 km2 (35 mi2), across sections of multiple Midwest states. The revisions constitute a substantial improvement as more realistic field conditions are reflected, more detailed weather data are utilized, hill slope sampling density is an order of magnitude greater, and results are aggregated based on surface hydrology enabling further watershed research and analysis. Considering these improvements and the expansion of the project beyond Iowa it was renamed the Daily Erosion Project (DEP). Statistical and comparative evaluations of soil erosion simulations indicate that the sampling density is adequate and the results are defendable. The modeling framework developed is readily adaptable to other regions given suitable inputs. © 2017 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.