bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A “plug‐n‐play” modular metabolic system for the production of apocarotenoids
Authors: Zhang Congqiang , Chen Xixian , Lindley Nic D. , Too Heng‐Phon
Published: October 2017

Apocarotenoids, such as α‐, β‐ionone, and retinol, have high commercial values in the food and cosmetic industries. The demand for natural ingredients has been increasing dramatically in recent years. However, attempts to overproduce β‐ionone in microorganisms have been limited by the complexity of the biosynthetic pathway. Here, an Escherichia coli‐based modular system was developed to produce various apocarotenoids. Incorporation of enzyme engineering approaches (N‐terminal truncation and protein fusion) into modular metabolic engineering strategy significantly improved α‐ionone production from 0.5 mg/L to 30 mg/L in flasks, producing 480 mg/L of α‐ionone in fed‐batch fermentation. By modifying apocarotenoid genetic module, this platform strain was successfully re‐engineered to produce 32 mg/L and 500 mg/L of β‐ionone in flask and bioreactor, respectively (>80‐fold higher than previously reported). Similarly, 33 mg/L of retinoids was produced in flask by reconstructing apocarotenoid module, demonstrating the versatility of the “plug‐n‐play” modular system. Collectively, this study highlights the importance of the strategy of simultaneous modular pathway optimization and enzyme engineering to overproduce valuable chemicals in microbes.
Prognostic significance of postoperative pneumonia after curative resection for patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Tu Ru‐Hong , Lin Jian‐Xian , Li Ping , Xie Jian‐Wei , Wang Jia‐Bin , Lu Jun , Chen Qi‐Yue , Cao Long‐long , Lin Mi , Zheng Chao‐Hui , Huang Chang‐Ming
Published: October 2017

Few studies have been designed to investigate the incidence of postoperative pneumonia after radical gastrectomy and its effect on prognosis of these patients. Incidences of postoperative pneumonia after radical gastrectomy in our department between January 1996 and December 2014 were summarized. Their effects on prognosis were retrospectively analyzed using survival curves and Cox regression. A total of 5237 patients were included in this study, 767 (14.4%) of them had complications, including 383 cases of postoperative pneumonia (7.2%). The 5‐year overall and disease‐specific survival of patients with postoperative pneumonia were both lower than those without this complication (P < 0.001). Stratified analysis demonstrated that this difference existed in all Stage I, II, and III patients (log‐rank, P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that age, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, tumor size, tumor stage, and postoperative pneumonia were independent risk factors for disease‐specific survival. Postoperative pneumonia after radical gastrectomy is an independent risk factor for prognosis of gastric cancer patients, especially in stage III.
Exploring the Substrate Scope of Baeyer–Villiger Monooxygenases with Branched Lactones as Entry towards Polyesters
Authors: Delgove Marie A. F. , Fürst Maximilian J. L. J. , Fraaije Marco W. , Bernaerts Katrien V. , De Wildeman Stefaan M. A.
Published: October 2017

Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs) are biocatalysts that are able to convert cyclic ketones into lactones by the insertion of oxygen. The aim of this study was to explore the substrate scope of several BVMOs with (biobased) cyclic ketones as precursors for the synthesis of branched polyesters. The product structure and the degree of conversion of several biotransformations were determined after conversions by using self‐sufficient BVMOs. Full regioselectivity towards the normal lactones of jasmatone and menthone was observed, whereas the oxidation of other substrates such as α,β‐thujone and 3,3,5‐trimethylcyclohexanone resulted in mixtures of regioisomers. This exploration of the substrate scope of both established and newly discovered BVMOs towards biobased ketones contributes to the development of branched polyesters from renewable resources.
Cancer and normal adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs): Do they have differential effects on tumor and immune cells?
Authors: Razmkhah Mahboobeh , Mansourabadi Zahra , Mohtasebi Maryam Sadat , Talei Abdol‐Rasoul , Ghaderi Abbas
Published: October 2017

Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) are known to have immunomodulatory properties through soluble factors or by direct cell‐to‐cell contact. This study aimed to assess the expression of HLA‐G and IDO activity in breast cancer and normal ASCs and to see whether ASC is capable of modulating both tumor cells and immune system cells in vitro. ASCs were enzymatically isolated from 15 breast cancer patients and 10 normal individuals. Then they were cultured, and the impact of their conditioned media on the movement of the MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cell line was studied in wound healing scratch assay. Next, PBLs from the peripheral blood of normal individuals were separated and co‐cultured with breast cancer and normal ASCs. PBLs proliferation and apoptosis were assessed using CFSE labeling dye and annexin V/7AAD staining, respectively. IDO activity and HLA‐G protein expression in ASCs were examined using kynurenine assay and Western blotting, respectively. Tumor‐derived ASCs, especially those from higher stages of breast cancer, have stronger effects on the proliferation and movement of MDA‐MB‐231 cells than normal ASCs (P‐value < 0.05). Apoptosis in PBLs increased in the presence of ASCs compared to PBLs cultured alone (P‐value < 0.05). In contrast, necrosis of PBLs decreased in the presence of ASCs compared to apoptosis in these cells (P‐value < 0.001). Collectively, ASCs may have strategic effects on both tumor cells and cells of the immune system in the tumor microenvironment, resulting in tumor development, growth, and metastasis.
Evaluation of Consolidation Behavior by Combined Membrane Filtration and Stepped Cake Compression
Authors: Iritani Eiji , Katagiri Nobuyuki , Yoshida Tomotaka
Published: October 2017

A method is proposed for determining the compression‐permeability (C‐P) data expressed as the dependences of the local specific cake resistance and local cake porosity on the solid compressive pressure from a combined membrane filtration and stepped cake compression test. Filtration employing a membrane with a high flow resistance, which provided the pressure dependence of the average specific cake resistance, was followed by step‐up compression, which gave cake porosities at several compressive pressures. On the basis of these data collected as the time variation of the dewatering volume, the compression‐permeability data of bentonite slurry were evaluated. Consolidation behaviors of the filter cake and semi‐solid material were accurately described on basis of the C‐P data.
Facile Preparation of Positively Charged and Solvent‐Resistant Cellulose Acetate/LSCF Nanofiltration Membranes
Authors: Han Runlin , Teng Da , Zhao Yaoli , Jian Xigao , Zhang Shouhai
Published: October 2017

Positively charged nanofiltration membranes often exhibit excellent antibacterial and antifouling properties. Nanofiltration membranes with high solvent resistance also find special applications in industrial waste water separation. Cellulose acetate is used to prepare various separation membranes due to its comprehensive performance. LSCF (La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3), a kind of cathode and electrolyte material, shows good conductivity in water solution. The nanosized hydrophilic inorganic additive LSCF is added to the casting solution to improve the performance of cellulose acetate nanofiltration membranes. After reaction with glutaraldehyde and trichloro dihydroxypropyl trimethylammonium chloride (TTAC), the prepared membrane demonstrates positively charged characteristics and excellent solvent resistance.
Thin‐Film Nanocomposite Nanofiltration Membranes Incorporated with Graphene Oxide for Phosphorus Removal
Authors: Koo Chai Hoon , Lau Woei Jye , Lai Gwo Sung , Lai Soon Onn , Thiam Hui San , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: October 2017

For the first time, thin‐film nanocomposite (TFN) nanofiltration membranes incorporated with graphene oxide (GO) were synthesized and used to separate phosphorus from water sources of varying properties. Prior to phosphorus removal tests, two different TFN membranes and one control thin‐film composite (TFC) membrane were subject to standard characterization in order to determine pure water flux, salt rejection, surface hydrophilicity, pore size, and porosity. By incorporation of GO, the water flux of composite membranes could be significantly improved with minimum decrease in salt rejection, mainly due to improved surface hydrophilicity coupled with enlarged pore size and overall structural porosity. Especially the TFN‐1 membrane was found to perform better owing to its good combination of water flux and solute rejection, higher water flux, and comparable phosphorus rejection in comparison to the TFC membrane.
Periodic Trends in the Binding of a Phosphine‐Tethered Ketone Ligand to Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu
Authors: Verhoeven Dide G. A. , van Wiggen Maxime A. C. , Kwakernaak Joost , Lutz Martin , Klein Gebbink Robertus J. M. , Moret Marc‐Etienne
Published: October 2017

π‐Coordinating ligands are commonly found in intermediate structures in homogeneous catalysis, and are gaining interest as supporting ligands for the development of cooperative catalysts. Herein, we systematically investigate the binding of the ketone group, a strongly accepting π ligand, to mid‐to‐late metals of the first transition series. To this end, the coordination of 2,2′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)benzophenone (Phdpbp), which features a ketone moiety flanked by two strongly binding P‐donor groups, to Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu was explored. The ketone moiety does not bind to the metal in MII complexes, whereas MI complexes (Fe, Co, Ni) adopt an η2(C,O) coordination. A structural and computational investigation of periodic trends in this series was performed. These data suggest that the coordination of the ketone to MI can mostly be described by the resonance extremes of the Dewar–Chatt–Duncanson model, that is, the π complex and the metallaoxacycle extreme, with a possible minor contribution from a ketyl radical resonance structure in the case of the iron complex.
Amino Acid Coordinated Self‐Assembly
Authors: Zou Qianli , Yan Xuehai
Published: October 2017

Self‐assembly of highly important biomolecules, such as proteins and peptides, has attracted tremendous interest in supramolecular construction of functional materials. However, as proteins and peptides are often immunogenic and their structures are complex, there is a strong demand to use amino acids as simpler building blocks. Still, mimicking the sophisticated structures and functions of natural materials by self‐assembly of simpler and more basic units of biomolecules, such as amino acids, remains a formidable challenge. Inspired by metal‐ion‐associated crystallization of l‐cystine in the urinary system, amino acid coordinated self‐assembly is discussed as an original strategy for supramolecular construction of biomimetic materials. The resulting materials possess the features of uniform size, hierarchical architecture, and structural resemblance to biological structures. In addition, the self‐assembly process can readily be adapted to simultaneous integration of various functional modules, providing materials with promising properties for biomimetic and biomedical applications.
Mapping the Assembly of Metal–Organic Cages into Complex Coordination Networks
Authors: Yadav Ashok , Gupta Arvind K. , Steiner Alexander , Boomishankar Ramamoorthy
Published: October 2017

Structural transformations of supramolecular assemblies play an important role in the synthesis of complex metal–organic materials. Nonetheless, often little is known of the assembly pathways that lead to the final product. This work describes the conversion of cubic metal–organic polyhedra to connected‐cage networks of varying topologies. The neutral cubic cage assembly of formula {Pd3[PO(NiPr)3]}8(PZDC)12 has been synthesized from {Pd3[(NiPr)3PO](OAc)2(OH)}2⋅2 (CH3)2SO and 2,5‐pyrazenedicarboxilic acid (PZDC‐2H). This 42‐component self‐assembly is the largest known among the neutral cages with PdII ions. The cage contains twenty‐four vacant carboxylate O‐sites at the PZDC ligands that are available for further coordination. Post‐assembly reactions of the cubic cage with FeII and ZnII ions produced cage‐connected networks of dia and qtz topologies, respectively. During these reactions, the discrete cubic cage transforms into a network of tetrahedral cages that are bridged by the 3D metal ions. The robustness of the [Pd3{[PO(NiPr)3}]3+ molecular building units made it possible to map the post‐assembly reactions in detail, which revealed a variety of intermediate 1D and 2D cage networks. Such step‐by‐step mapping of the transformation of discrete cages to cage‐connected frameworks is unprecedented in the chemistry of coordination driven assemblies.
α,α‐Alkylation‐Halogenation and Dihalogenation of Sulfoxonium Ylides. A Direct Preparation of Geminal Difunctionalized Ketones
Authors: Gallo Rafael D. C. , Ahmad Anees , Metzker Gustavo , Burtoloso Antonio C. B.
Published: October 2017

A one‐pot alkylation–halogenation of ketosulfoxonium ylides in the presence of alkyl halides is described. The method furnishes several gem‐difunctionalized haloketones (an alkyl and F, Cl, Br, or I) in good yields. Replacing alkyl halides with a mixture of electrophilic halogen species and various halide anions led to gem‐dihalogenated ketones containing a combination of the same or two different halogens. Kinetic isotopic effects as well as reaction kinetic experiments give insight to the mechanism of these reactions.
Heterobimetallic Complexes Featuring Fe(CO)5 as a Ligand on Gold
Authors: Wang Guocang , Ponduru Tharun T. , Wang Qing , Zhao Lili , Frenking Gernot , Dias H. V. Rasika
Published: October 2017

Iron(0) pentacarbonyl complexes of gold(I), [Mes3PAu‐Fe(CO)5][SbF6] (1) and [(IPr*)Au‐Fe(CO)5][SbF6] (2) (Mes=2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl; IPr*=1,3‐bis(2,6‐bis(diphenylmethyl)‐4‐methylphenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene) have been synthesized using Mes3PAuCl and (IPr*)AuCl as the gold(I) precursor, AgSbF6 halide ion abstractor, and the Lewis base Fe(CO)5. The Au−Fe bond lengths of these metal‐only Lewis pair complexes are significantly shorter than the sum of the experimentally derived covalent radii of Au and Fe. The v̄(CO) bands of the molecules show a notable blueshift relative to those observed for free Fe(CO)5, indicating a substantial reduction in Fe→CO backbonding upon its coordination to gold(I) with either Mes3P or IPr* supporting ligands (L). The analysis of the electronic structure with quantum chemical method suggests that the Au−Fe bond consists mainly of [LAu]+←Fe(CO)5 σ‐donation and weaker [LAu]+→Fe(CO)5 π‐backdonation. The donor strength of Fe(CO)5 is similar to that of CO.
Free‐Standing Metal Oxide Nanoparticle Superlattices Constructed with Engineered Protein Containers Show in Crystallo Catalytic Activity
Authors: Lach Marcel , Künzle Matthias , Beck Tobias
Published: October 2017

The construction of defined nanostructured catalysts is challenging. In previous work, we established a strategy to assemble binary nanoparticle superlattices with oppositely charged protein containers as building blocks. Here, we show that these free‐standing nanoparticle superlattices are catalytically active. The metal oxide nanoparticles inside the protein scaffold are accessible for a range of substrates and show oxidase‐like and peroxidase‐like activity. The stable superlattices can be reused for several reaction cycles. In contrast to bulk nanoparticle‐based catalysts, which are prone to aggregation and difficult to characterize, nanoparticle superlattices based on engineered protein containers provide an innovative synthetic route to structurally defined heterogeneous catalysts with control over nanoparticle size and composition.
Association between serious psychological distress and nonparticipation in cancer screening and the modifying effect of socioeconomic status: Analysis of anonymized data from a national cross‐sectional survey in Japan
Authors: Fujiwara Masaki , Inagaki Masatoshi , Nakaya Naoki , Fujimori Maiko , Higuchi Yuji , Kakeda Kyoko , Uchitomi Yosuke , Yamada Norihito
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether individuals who have serious psychological distress (SPD) are less likely to participate in screening tests for gastric cancer, lung cancer, and other types of cancer. Of the few studies that have examined the association between SPD and participation in cancer screening, none have reported modifying effects of educational, marital, or employment status.

METHODS

The authors analyzed a national representative data set from the 2010 Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions of Japan., including individuals aged <69 years who met the national program criteria for each type of cancer screening (colorectal, gastric, and lung cancers, n = 29,926; breast cancer, n = 15,423; and cervical cancer, n = 24,735). SPD was defined as a score of 13 or greater on the Kessler 6 scale. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between SPD and participation in cancer screening, and multivariate analyses stratified by socioeconomic status also were conducted.

RESULTS

SPD was significantly associated with a lower odds ratio (OR) for participation in screening for colorectal cancer (OR, 0.743; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.638‐0.866), gastric cancer (OR, 0.823; 95% CI, 0.717‐0.946), and lung cancer (OR, 0.691; 95% CI, 0.592‐0.807). Only educational status significantly modified the effect of SPD on participation in these 3 types of cancer screening (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with SPD, especially those with lower education levels, were less likely to participate in screening for colorectal, gastric, and lung cancers. Individuals with SPD should be encouraged and supported to participate in cancer screening tests. Cancer 2018;124:555‐62. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
PET‐CT image fusion using random forest and à‐trous wavelet transform
Authors: Seal Ayan , Bhattacharjee Debotosh , Nasipuri Mita , Rodríguez‐Esparragón Dionisio , Menasalvas Ernestina , Gonzalo‐Martin Consuelo
Published: October 2017

New image fusion rules for multimodal medical images are proposed in this work. Image fusion rules are defined by random forest learning algorithm and a translation‐invariant à‐trous wavelet transform (AWT). The proposed method is threefold. First, source images are decomposed into approximation and detail coefficients using AWT. Second, random forest is used to choose pixels from the approximation and detail coefficients for forming the approximation and detail coefficients of the fused image. Lastly, inverse AWT is applied to reconstruct fused image. All experiments have been performed on 198 slices of both computed tomography and positron emission tomography images of a patient. A traditional fusion method based on Mallat wavelet transform has also been implemented on these slices. A new image fusion performance measure along with 4 existing measures has been presented, which helps to compare the performance of 2 pixel level fusion methods. The experimental results clearly indicate that the proposed method outperforms the traditional method in terms of visual and quantitative qualities and the new measure is meaningful.
A Functional Hydrogenase Mimic Chemisorbed onto Fluorine‐Doped Tin Oxide Electrodes: A Strategy towards Water Splitting Devices
Authors: Zaffaroni Riccardo , Detz Remko J. , van der Vlugt Jarl Ivar , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: October 2017

A diiron benzenedithiolate hydrogen‐evolving catalyst immobilized onto fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) electrodes is prepared, characterized, and studied in the context of the development of water splitting devices based on molecular components. FTO was chosen as the preferred electrode material owing to its conductive properties and electrochemical stability. An FTO nanocrystalline layer is also used to greatly improve the surface area of commercially available FTO while preserving the properties of the material. Electrodes bearing a covalently anchored diiron catalyst are shown to be competent for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution from acidic aqueous media at relatively low overpotential (500 mV) with a faradaic efficiency close to unity. Compared with bulk solution catalysts, the catalyst immobilized onto the electrode surface operates at roughly 160 mV lower overpotentials, yet with similar rates.
Fine needle aspiration cytology of hepatic metastases of neuroendocrine tumors: A 20‐year retrospective, single institutional study
Authors: Saeed Omer A. M. , Cramer Harvey , Wang Xiaoyan , Wu Howard H.
Published: October 2017

Background

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is considered an excellent technique for documenting metastatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of FNA in diagnosing metastatic NETs to the liver and determining the grade and origin of these metastases.

Methods

Our laboratory information system was searched from 1997 to 2016 to identify all cases of metastatic NETs to the liver that were sampled by FNA. The cytopathology and surgical pathology reports as well as the patients' electronic medical records were reviewed. The cytohistologic type and grade of the metastatic NETs, as well as the site of the patient's primary were recorded.

Results

High‐grade NETs, including small cell and poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas, constituted 62% (167/271) of the cases, while low‐grade NETs, including well differentiated NET (grade1 and grade 2), pheochromocytomas, paragangliomas, and carcinoid tumors of lung, constituted 38% (104/271) of cases. The most common diagnosis was metastatic small cell carcinoma accounting for 45% (122/271) of cases. The most common primary sites were lung (44%; 119/271) followed by pancreas (19%; 51/271). The FNA diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology in 121 cases that had a concurrent biopsies or resection specimens.

Conclusions

FNA is an accurate method for diagnosing metastatic NETs to the liver. There were significantly more high‐grade (62%) than low‐grade (38%) metastatic NETs to the liver. In our practice, lung (44%) and pancreas (19%) were the most common primary sites of metastatic NETs involving the liver. In 16% of the cases, a primary site could not be established.
Analysis of new psychoactive substances in oral fluids by means of microextraction by packed sorbent followed by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Rocchi Rachele , Simeoni Maria Chiara , Montesano Camilla , Vannutelli Gabriele , Curini Roberta , Sergi Manuel , Compagnone Dario
Published: October 2017

In recent years, new drugs, commonly known as new psychoactive substances (NPS), appeared on the market, which include, among others, synthetic cannabinoids, cathinones, and tryptamine analogs of psilocin. The aim of this work was to develop and validate a new method for simultaneous screening and quantification of 31 NPS in oral fluid by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS). The chosen target analytes represented different chemical and toxicological NPS classes, such as synthetic cathinones, piperazines, phenethylamines, synthetic cannabinoids, and their metabolites. The procedure involved a rapid sample preparation based on protein precipitation followed by clean‐up utilizing microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS); the quantitative analysis was performed by UHPLC–MS/MS. The MEPS clean‐up, regardless of non‐quantitative recoveries for some analytes, provided an effective removal of interfering compounds, as demonstrated by reduced matrix effects found at different concentrations for all the analytes. The validation protocol, based on SWGTOX guidelines, demonstrated the suitability of the proposed method for quantitative analysis: linearity range ranged over 3 or 4 orders of magnitude; precision and accuracy tests gave RSD% values below 25%, and accuracy ranged from 85.9% to 107%, accomplishing SWGTOX requirements. Limits of detection (LODs) ranged between 0.005 ng/mL and 0.850 ng/mL and limits of quantification (LOQs) from 0.015 to 2.600 ng/mL.
Electronic cigarette use among individuals with a self‐reported eating disorder diagnosis
Authors: Morean Meghan E. , L'Insalata Alexa
Published: October 2017

Objective

The primary study aim was to examine whether rates of using e‐cigarettes (“vaping”) to lose weight are elevated among American adults who self‐report having an eating disorder (ED).

Method

Adult vapers who reported either currently having an ED (n = 178; 72.5% women, 83.7% White, mean age 33.26 [SD = 8.35] years) or no ED history (n = 433; 54.7% women, 83.4% White, 35.98 [SD = 11.71] years) completed an anonymous survey.

Results

Relative to participants reporting no ED history, participants who reported currently having an ED were more likely to report vaping to lose/control weight, because it can be concealed from others, and due to the availability of sweet flavors. Participants reporting a current ED also were more likely to vape daily, to use higher nicotine concentrations, and to vape to relieve negative affect than were individuals without EDs.

Discussion

Individuals who self‐reported currently having an ED endorsed vaping motives that are consistent with eating pathology (e.g., substance‐induced weight loss, hiding compensatory behaviors from others). They also were more likely to vape daily and to use higher nicotine concentrations, raising health concerns. The findings suggest that treatment providers should screen for e‐cigarette use in clients seeking ED treatment.
Design of Magnetic Coordination Polymers Built from Polyoxalamide Ligands: A Thirty Year Story
Authors: Journaux Yves , Ferrando‐Soria Jesús , Pardo Emilio , Ruiz‐Garcia Rafael , Julve Miguel , Lloret Francesc , Cano Joan , Li Yanling , Lisnard Laurent , Yu Pei , Stumpf Humberto , Pereira Cynthia L. M.
Published: October 2017

The aim of this review is to pay tribute to the legacy of O. Kahn. Kahn's credo was to synthesize magnetic compounds with predictable structure and magnetic properties. This is illustrated herein with results obtained by Kahn's group during his Orsay period thirty years ago, but also on the basis of our recent results on the synthesis of coordination polymers with oxamate ligands. The first part of this review is devoted to a short description of the necessary knowledge in physics and theoretical chemistry that Kahn and his group have used to select oxamate ligands, the complex‐as‐ligand strategy and the synthesis of heterobimetallic systems. Then, we describe the strategies we have later used to obtain the desired target compounds. The use of complexes as building‐blocks, associated to a control of the metal ions chirality and stoichiometry, allowed us to obtain coordination polymers with predictable dimensionality. For the synthesis of single‐chain magnets (SCMs) we show that the ligand chemical flexibility makes the isolation of the chains in the solid and the occurence of slow magnetic relaxation possible. For 1D and 2D molecule‐based magnets (MBMs), the magnetic ordering strongly depends on the interchain or interplane interactions, which are difficult to control. Again the flexibility of the oxamate ligands allowed their strengthening in the solid sate, yielding MBMs with critical temperatures up to 30 K. We will also present our results on 3D coordination polymers, particularly on the porous magnets displaying large octagonal channels. This family of porous MBMs possess outstanding chemical properties, such as post‐synthetic transformation in the solid state. Finally, we will also show that oxamate ligands allows the design of multifunctional materials, as in the case of the first chiral SCM. Overall, the results presented in this review show the impressive potential the oxamate ligands have for the design of coordination polymers.
Amino Aldehydes Revisited
Authors: Mestrom Luuk , Bracco Paula , Hanefeld Ulf
Published: October 2017

The enzymatic oxidation of amino alcohols was studied to address the long‐standing problem of product stability. Amino aldehydes, highly sought and unstable compounds, can be generated under mild conditions if they are immediately protected. Utilizing a range of alcohol dehydrogenases (ADHs) and semicarbazide as a scavenger, the enantioselective synthesis of protected amino aldehydes is possible. Glycerol dehydrogenase from Gluconobacter oxydans (GoGDH) displayed excellent enantioselectivity but limited substrate scope, whereas horse liver ADH catalyzed a broad range of conversions with low enantioselectivities.
Anthraquinones as Photoredox Catalysts for the Reductive Activation of Aryl Halides
Authors: Bardagi Javier I. , Ghosh Indrajit , Schmalzbauer Matthias , Ghosh Tamal , König Burkhard
Published: October 2017

Quinones are ubiquitous in nature as structural motifs in natural products and redox mediators in biological electron‐transfer processes. Although their oxidation properties have already been used widely in chemical and photochemical reactions, the applications of quinones in reductive photoredox catalysis are less explored. We report the visible‐light photoreduction of aryl halides (Ar–X; X = Cl, Br, I) by 1,8‐dihydroxyanthraquinone. The resulting aryl radical anions fragment into halide anions and aryl radicals, which react through hydrogen abstraction or C–C bond‐forming reactions. The active photocatalyst is generated from 1,8‐dihydroxyanthraquinone by photoinduced single‐electron reduction to the radical anion or subsequent protonation and further reduction (or vice versa) to the semiquinone anion. Subsequent visible‐light excitation of the anthraquinone radical anion or semiquinone anion converts them into very potent single‐electron donors. A plausible mechanism for the reaction is proposed on the basis of control experiments and spectroscopic investigations.
Statistical interpretation of the Amerithrax “morph” assay results
Authors: Velsko Stephan Paul , Osburn Joanne J. , Sharma Sushil K. , Ashley James D.
Published: October 2017

In the Amerithrax investigation PCR‐based “morph assays” were used to link the anthrax letters with the RMR‐1029 flask at USAMRIID. Quantitative data reported for several of these assays are not consistent with Poisson sampling statistics, but instead exhibit “Taylor's Law” behavior where the variance greatly exceeds the mean. A plausible statistical model for this behavior can explain the large number of observed negative and “inconclusive” findings, and implies a high likelihood that a repository sample could contain a “morph” mutant at concentrations well above the nominal detection limit but nonetheless give a negative or inconclusive test result. A Bayesian framework relates the assay results to the probability that a sample actually contains all four morph mutants, even though it tested negative for at least one. The analysis implies that the observed false negative rate actually does not significantly weaken the conclusion that the morph assays correctly excluded all but the stocks derived from RMR‐1029 as possible sources of the letter powders, at least when the test results were unambiguous. These findings expand upon and resolve some of the issues cited in recent reviews, and indicate the importance of developing a rigorous statistical framework for interpreting “morph” assay data.
Electropreconcentration‐induced local pH change
Authors: Chun Honggu
Published: October 2017

Ion‐permselective nanochannel‐based sample preconcentration or electropreconcentration has been demonstrated as an effective technique for concentrating charged analytes at the interface between a micro‐ and nanochannel. The anion‐selective electropreconcentration involves extraction of hydroxide in the preconcentrated sample plug, resulting in pH decrease. We investigated the pH change in a microchannel using charged pH indicators with different conditions including running buffer pH, sample channel electric field, and salt concentration. The anion‐selective preconcentration showed pH decrease from 11 to under 7 in the preconcentrated sample plug. Therefore, careful design and interpretation are required with pH‐dependent experiments such as analyzing enzyme or antibody characteristics. The pH change could be mitigated by reducing the sample channel electric field and/or increasing salt concentration in the buffer.
Association of 12 polymorphic variants conferring genetic risk to lung cancer in Indian population: An extensive meta‐analysis
Authors: Sengupta Debmalya , Guha Udayan , Bhattacharjee Samsiddhi , Sengupta Mainak
Published: October 2017

Candidate gene as well as genome‐wide association studies identified several polymorphic variants to be associated with lung cancer worldwide including in India. However, contradictory results have failed to estimate the overall effect of the polymorphic variants on the disease. Textmining was conducted on PubMed following specific search strings to gather all the publications related to genetic association with lung cancer in India. Out of 211 PubMed hits only 30 studies were selected for meta‐analysis following specific inclusion criteria. Heterogeneity between studies was calculated by Cochran's Q‐test (P < 0.05) and heterogeneity index (I2). Publication bias was visualized by funnel plots and Egger's regression test. For each variant, following a fixed‐effect model, summary odds ratio (OR) along with 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated. The meta‐analysis revealed three polymorphic variants viz. ‘deletion polymorphism (del1) (OR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.03–1.87, P = 0.027) in GSTT1’, ‘deletion polymorphism (del2) (OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.01–1.67, P = 0.038) in GSTM1’ and ‘rs1048943 (OR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.27–3.10, P = 0.002) in CYP1A1’ to be associated with lung cancer. However, after multiple testing correction, only rs1048943 was found to be significantly associated (P value = 0.0321) with lung cancer. None of the polymorphic variants showed any evidence of heterogeneity between studies or of publication bias. Our meta‐analysis revealed strong association of rs1048943 in CYP1A1, but a suggestive association of deletion polymorphisms in GSTT1 and GSTM1 with lung cancer, which provides a comprehensive insight on the overall effect of the polymorphic variants, reported in various case–control studies on Indian population, on the risk of lung cancer development. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 58:688–700, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analyses on the application of components in the phosphogypsum decomposition residue: Based on the study of migration and conversion rules of elements in the purification procedure of CaO
Authors: Dai Quxiu , Ma Liping , Xie Longgui , Yan Bei , Zheng Dalong , Yang Jie
Published: October 2017

Phosphogypsum (PG), which is a solid waste in phosphate fertilizer industry, is harmful to the environment. The pyrogenetic decomposition is mainly used in the utilization of PG, and PG decomposition residue is produced in the decomposition process. In this paper, the migration and conversion rules of elements (Al, Si, P, K, Ca, and Fe) in the purification procedure of CaO in PG decomposition residue was investigated. The acid–base method was used to purify CaO. Content and chemical forms of elements in the purification procedure were analyzed by many characterization methods such as SEM and EDS. And moreover, changes on chemical forms of elements were supported theoretically by some ternary phase diagrams, which were made by the FactSage thermodynamics software. The result showed that, the soluble silicon dioxide and the acid‐insoluble material in PG decomposition residue were effectively removed by using the acid–base method. Meanwhile, impurities separated from CaO and the CaO sample were produced in the experiment, the former can be used to produce the building materials, refractories, insulating materials in various industrial fields, and CaO sample could be used as the filler, building materials, decolorant, etc. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1020–1030, 2018
Incorporating the oxic‐settling‐anaerobic (OSA) process into an anoxic–oxic system for sewage sludge reduction and nutrient removal
Authors: Romero Pareja Pablo Maria , Aragon Cruz Carlos Alberto , Quiroga Alonso Jose Maria , Coello Oviedo María Dolores
Published: October 2017

The production of sludge in biological wastewater treatments is a growing problem worldwide as it entails economic, environmental, and health problems. The oxic‐settling‐anaerobic (OSA) process is one of the techniques that have been developed to reduce the sludge produced in the activated sludge process (ASP). This article reports the feasibility of the application of the OSA process in a nutrient removal system, specifically, in an anoxic–oxic (A) process. The results reveal TN removal in the A + OSA system of 68.84% and 69.91% (for 7 and 11 h of sludge anaerobic exposure time, SAET, respectively) versus 38.02% and 32.47% in the OSA system with similar SAET. The percentage sludge reductions obtained were, respectively, 22.41% and 31.93% in the OSA system and 23.53% and 32.49% in the A + OSA system compared to the sludge produced in the conventional ASP. The study confirms the suitability of the application of the OSA process in a nutrient removal system, as nutrient removal performances are not affected, while at the same time achieving higher sludge reduction. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1068–1074, 2018
The essential oil of patchouli,Pogostemon cablin: A review
Authors: van Beek Teris A. , Joulain Daniel
Published: October 2017

The leaves ofPogostemon cablin(Blanco) Benth.(Lamiaceae) are the source of patchouli essential oil, which is – with an annual production of about 1300 tonnes – an important and unique commodity in the fragrance industry. All the literature pertaining to patchouli was critically reviewed with an emphasis on the qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of the oil but also harvesting, fermentation, drying, distillation, used analytical techniques, sensory aspects including molecules responsible for the odour, adulteration and toxicological aspects, i.e., skin sensitisation, are discussed. In total 72 constituents have been convincingly identified in the oil and another 58 tentatively. The main constituent is the sesquiterpene patchoulol. For this review over 600 papers were consulted and in the supplementary information all patchouli‐related references not relevant enough to be cited in the paper itself are listed.
Development of a Bi‐cell Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell with Optimized Groove‐designed Piezoelectric Actuator
Authors: Ma H. K. , Hsu Y. L. , Luo W. F.
Published: October 2017

Previous studies demonstrated a piezoelectric proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PZT‐PEMFC) stack design composed of three bi‐cells in series and a single bi‐cell, with a maximum net power density of 0.1608 W cm−2. The present study developed a modified bi‐cell design with lower volume and weight by using gold‐plated aluminum 6061. A groove‐designed PZT actuator enclosed with poly‐di‐methyl‐siloxane (PDMS) curing for 30 min can reduce uneven air feeding. Such an actuator can also improve the performance of both sides of a bi‐cell, with only a 0.7% difference in the open circuit voltage (OCV). The experimental results showed that the net power density of the new version of the single bi‐cell PZT‐PEMFC module was 0.1658 W cm−2.
Astrocyte glycogen and lactate: New insights into learning and memory mechanisms
Authors: Alberini Cristina M. , Cruz Emmanuel , Descalzi Giannina , Bessières Benjamin , Gao Virginia
Published: October 2017

Memory, the ability to retain learned information, is necessary for survival. Thus far, molecular and cellular investigations of memory formation and storage have mainly focused on neuronal mechanisms. In addition to neurons, however, the brain comprises other types of cells and systems, including glia and vasculature. Accordingly, recent experimental work has begun to ask questions about the roles of non‐neuronal cells in memory formation. These studies provide evidence that all types of glial cells (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia) make important contributions to the processing of encoded information and storing memories. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent findings on the critical role of astrocytes as providers of energy for the long‐lasting neuronal changes that are necessary for long‐term memory formation. We focus on three main findings: first, the role of glucose metabolism and the learning‐ and activity‐dependent metabolic coupling between astrocytes and neurons in the service of long‐term memory formation; second, the role of astrocytic glucose metabolism in arousal, a state that contributes to the formation of very long‐lasting and detailed memories; and finally, in light of the high energy demands of the brain during early development, we will discuss the possible role of astrocytic and neuronal glucose metabolisms in the formation of early‐life memories. We conclude by proposing future directions and discussing the implications of these findings for brain health and disease. Astrocyte glycogenolysis and lactate play a critical role in memory formation. Emotionally salient experiences form strong memories by recruiting astrocytic β2 adrenergic receptors and astrocyte‐generated lactate. Glycogenolysis and astrocyte–neuron metabolic coupling may also play critical roles in memory formation during development, when the energy requirements of brain metabolism are at their peak.
TGF‐β pro‐oligodendrogenic effects on adult SVZ progenitor cultures and its interaction with the Notch signaling pathway
Authors: Gómez Pinto Laura I. , Rodríguez Debora , Adamo Ana M. , Mathieu Patricia A.
Published: October 2017

Adult neural progenitor cells (NPCs) are capable of differentiating into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes throughout life. Notch and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β) signaling pathways play critical roles in controlling these cell fate decisions. TGF‐β has been previously shown to exert pro‐neurogenic effects on hippocampal and subventricular zone (SVZ) NPCs in vitro and to interact with Notch in different cellular types. Therefore, the aim of our work was to study the effect of TGF‐β on adult rat brain SVZ NPC glial commitment and its interaction with Notch signaling. Initial cell characterization revealed a large proportion of Olig2+, Nestin+, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP+) cells, a low percentage of platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα+) or NG2+ cells, and <1% Tuj1+ cells. Immunocytochemical analyses showed a significant increase in the percentage of PDGFRα+, NG2+, and GFAP+ cells upon four‐day TGF‐β treatment, which demonstrates the pro‐gliogenic effect of this growth factor on adult brain SVZ NPCs. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction analyses showed that TGF‐β induced the expression of Notch ligand Jagged1 and downstream gene Hes1. Notch signaling inhibition in cultures treated with TGF‐β produced a decrease in the proportion of PDGFRα+ cells, while TGF‐β receptor II (TβRII) inhibition also rendered a decrease in the proportion of PDGFRα+ cells, concomitantly with a decrease in Jagged1 levels. These findings demonstrate the participation of Notch signaling in TGF‐β effects and illustrate the impact of TGF‐β on glial cell fate decisions of adult brain SVZ NPCs, as well as on oligodendroglial progenitor cell proliferation and maturation.
AHNS Series: Do you know your guidelines? Review of current knowledge on laryngeal cancer
Authors: Tamaki Akina , Miles Brett A. , Lango Miriam , Kowalski Luiz , Zender Chad A.
Published: October 2017

The following article is part of a series in an initiative by the American Head and Neck Society's Education Committee and will review clinical practice guidelines for head and neck oncology. The primary goal is to increase awareness of current best practices pertaining to head and neck surgery and oncology. This manuscript is a review of current knowledge in laryngeal cancer with a focus on anatomy, epidemiology, diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment.
Heterotopic thyroid autotransplantation: A preliminary clinical study
Authors: Sakr Mahmoud , El‐kerm Yasser , Abo‐Elwafa Waleed , Mahmoud Ahmed , Fathi Ibrahim
Published: October 2017

Background

Thyroid autotransplantation offers an attractive alternative to subtotal thyroidectomy and replacement therapy. However, it has not been sufficiently clinically investigated.

Methods

Total thyroidectomy was performed for 20 patients with benign thyroid disorders, and at least 10 g of thyroid tissue were implanted intramuscularly. Graft monitoring was achieved through 99mTc scan at 2 months, free triiodothyronine (FT3), FT4, and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) measurements at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 months postoperatively, and clinical examination.

Results

Grafts survived and gradually functioned in all patients to a variable extent after a latent period (mean 99mTc uptake = 1.28 ± 0.37%). Mean values for FT3, FT4, TSH at 12 months were 1.75 ± 0.48 pg/mL, 1.06 ± 0.26 ng/dL, and 28.08 ± 34.01 μIU/mL respectively.

Conclusion

Thyroid autotransplantation restored euthyroid status in 33.3% of patients after 12 months. A role of age, operative time, and 99mTc‐uptake in determining the final graft outcome is possible.
Prognostic role of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in head and neck cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Takenaka Yukinori , Oya Ryohei , Kitamiura Takahiro , Ashida Naoki , Shimizu Kotaro , Takemura Kazuya , Yamamoto Yoshifumi , Uno Atsuhiko
Published: October 2017

Background

Neutrophils play substantial roles in cancer progression. Previous reports demonstrated the prognostic impact of the pretreatment neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in various types of solid cancers. The purpose of this study was to quantify the prognostic impact of NLR on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

We systematically searched electronic databases, identified articles regarding NLR and HNSCC mortality, and extracted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Pooled HRs for overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS) were estimated using random effect models.

Results

Nineteen studies enrolling 3770 patients were included in the analyses. Overall, NLR greater than the cutoff value was associated with poorer OS and DSS (HR 1.69; 95% CI 1.47‐1.93; P < .001 and HR 1.88; 95% CI 1.20‐2.95; P = .006, respectively).

Conclusion

Elevated NLR predicts worse outcomes in patients with HNSCC.
Autonomy as a key resource for women in low gender egalitarian countries: A cross‐cultural examination
Authors: Halliday Cynthia Saldanha , Paustian‐Underdahl Samantha C. , Ordóñez Zoa , Rogelberg Steven G. , Zhang Haiyan
Published: October 2017

Relying on Conservation of Resources theory and a sample of 23,439 workers in 26 countries, we develop and test a multilevel moderated mediation of the effects of perceived job autonomy on work–life balance, engagement, and turnover intentions, depending on employee gender and country‐level gender egalitarianism (GE), and indirectly through stress. We find that perceived job autonomy relates to these outcomes indirectly through stress such that these effects are stronger for women in lower GE countries compared with women in higher GE countries and are not significant for men. Practical implications for engaging and retaining global female talent are discussed.