bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recykling na zimno ze spienionym asfaltem, wiedza zdobyta z toru testowego w Niemczech
Authors: Kalantari Mehdi
Published: July 2024

W ostatnich latach w UE znacznie wzrosło zapotrzebowanie na bardziej zrównoważoną infrastrukturę transportową. W Niemczech celem politycznym jest osiągnięcie neutralności klimatycznej do 2035 roku. Wśród różnych rozwiązań, recykling to ważny aspekt na drodze do osiągnięcia gospodarki o obiegu zamkniętym w odniesieniu do nawierzchni, jako jednej z głównych części infrastruktury transportowej. Recykling na zimno to technika, która wymaga mniej energii i może potencjalnie wykorzystywać większe ilości materiałów pochodzących z recyklingu. Uzyskany materiał może nie mieć takich samych właściwości jak konwencjonalna mieszanka asfaltowa na gorąco, ale dzięki zoptymalizowanej mieszance i projektowi strukturalnemu możliwe jest wykonanie nawierzchni o takiej samej lub nawet wyższej trwałości niż konwencjonalne rodzaje nawierzchni, ale o większym potencjale w zakresie zrównoważonego rozwoju. W 2018 r. w Federalnym Instytucie Badawczym Drogownictwa (BASt) we współpracy z Wirtgen GmbH zdefiniowano projekt badawczy na temat recyklingu na zimno z asfaltem spienionym. Głównym celem projektu było zebranie informacji i doświadczeń na temat zachowania zimnego materiału pochodzącego z recyklingu ze stosunkowo niewielką ilością bitumu i cementu, znanego na całym świecie jako Bitumen Stabilised Materials (BSM). W tym celu zbudowano 100-metrowy odcinek testowy na obszarze demonstracyjnym, badawczym i referencyjnym BASt (duraBASt) z dwoma różnymi typami konstrukcji (referencyjnym i z recyklingu na zimno). Oba odcinki zostały obciążone za pomocą mobilnego symulatora obciążenia (MLS30). W niniejszym artykule przedstawiono niektóre wyniki i ustalenia z nieniszczącego monitorowania (pomiary FWD i koleinowania) i badań wydobytych rdzeni. Program dowiódł, że możliwe jest zaprojektowanie i wykonanie nawierzchni z BSM o porównywalnych parametrach jak nawierzchnie konwencjonalne w Niemczech.
Wpływ zmiany udziału pojazdów autonomicznych w ruchu na warunki ruchu i zużycie paliwa w sąsiedztwie wydzielonych przejść dla pieszych
Authors: Kieć Mariusz , Bąk Radosław , Kamiński Tomasz
Published: July 2024

Pojawienie się pojazdów autonomicznych (AV) w ruchu drogowym jest powszechnie przedstawiane jako szansa na poprawę bezpieczeństwa i warunków ruchu poprzez wykluczenie człowieka z procesu decyzyjnego, w tym zastąpienie go komunikacją pojazdów z pojazdami i z infrastrukturą. AV muszą uwzględniać między innymi interakcje z niechronionymi uczestnikami ruchu (m.in. pieszymi i rowerzystami), co jest problematyczne ze względu na konieczność przewidywania ich zachowań i odpowiedniego reagowania na nie. W artykule przedstawiono wyniki analiz mikrosymulacyjnych ruchu AV w rejonie wydzielonego przejścia dla pieszych. Założenie stopniowego wzrostu udziału AV wskazuje, że przejścia dla pieszych są miejscem, w którym płynność ruchu może się wówczas znacząco pogorszyć. Wyniki przeprowadzonych analiz oraz studiów literatury wskazują, że AV będą musiały gwałtowniej lub wcześniej hamować oraz częściej zatrzymywać się niż pojazdy konwencjonalne. W artykule przedstawiono również wpływ różnych poziomów udziału AV w ruchu na zużycie paliwa, mające pośredni wpływ na środowisko.
Vacuolar H+-ATPase determines daughter cell fates through asymmetric segregation of the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase complex
Authors: Xie Zhongyun , Chai Yongping , Zhu Zhiwen , Shen Zijie , Guo Zhengyang , Zhao Zhiguang , Xiao Long , Du Zhuo , Ou Guangshuo , Li Wei
Published: July 2024

Asymmetric cell divisions (ACDs) generate two daughter cells with identical genetic information but distinct cell fates through epigenetic mechanisms. However, the process of partitioning different epigenetic information into daughter cells remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex is asymmetrically segregated into the surviving daughter cell rather than the apoptotic one during ACDs in Caenorhabditis elegans. The absence of NuRD triggers apoptosis via the EGL-1-CED-9-CED-4-CED-3 pathway, while an ectopic gain of NuRD enables apoptotic daughter cells to survive. We identify the vacuolar H+–adenosine triphosphatase (V-ATPase) complex as a crucial regulator of NuRD’s asymmetric segregation. V-ATPase interacts with NuRD and is asymmetrically segregated into the surviving daughter cell. Inhibition of V-ATPase disrupts cytosolic pH asymmetry and NuRD asymmetry. We suggest that asymmetric segregation of V-ATPase may cause distinct acidification levels in the two daughter cells, enabling asymmetric epigenetic inheritance that specifies their respective life-versus-death fates.
The components of an electrical synapse as revealed by expansion microscopy of a single synaptic contact
Authors: Cárdenas-García Sandra P , Ijaz Sundas , Pereda Alberto E
Published: July 2024

Most nervous systems combine both transmitter-mediated and direct cell–cell communication, known as ‘chemical’ and ‘electrical’ synapses, respectively. Chemical synapses can be identified by their multiple structural components. Electrical synapses are, on the other hand, generally defined by the presence of a ‘gap junction’ (a cluster of intercellular channels) between two neuronal processes. However, while gap junctions provide the communicating mechanism, it is unknown whether electrical transmission requires the contribution of additional cellular structures. We investigated this question at identifiable single synaptic contacts on the zebrafish Mauthner cells, at which gap junctions coexist with specializations for neurotransmitter release and where the contact unequivocally defines the anatomical limits of a synapse. Expansion microscopy of these single contacts revealed a detailed map of the incidence and spatial distribution of proteins pertaining to various synaptic structures. Multiple gap junctions of variable size were identified by the presence of their molecular components. Remarkably, most of the synaptic contact’s surface was occupied by interleaving gap junctions and components of adherens junctions, suggesting a close functional association between these two structures. In contrast, glutamate receptors were confined to small peripheral portions of the contact, indicating that most of the synaptic area functions as an electrical synapse. Thus, our results revealed the overarching organization of an electrical synapse that operates with not one, but multiple gap junctions, in close association with structural and signaling molecules known to be components of adherens junctions. The relationship between these intercellular structures will aid in establishing the boundaries of electrical synapses found throughout animal connectomes and provide insight into the structural organization and functional diversity of electrical synapses.
All Roads Lead to Rome Combating Impunity for Perpetration of Slave Trade and Slavery Crimes
Authors: Kestenbaum Jocelyn Getgen
Published: July 2024

The Republic of Sierra Leone has proposed amendments to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to include, inter alia, provisions for the slave trade as a crime against humanity and has recommended that the General Assembly include the slave trade as an enumerated
crime in the Draft articles on Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Humanity (CAH) (Draft articles). This declaration came nearly five years after Cardozo's Benjamin B Ferencz Human Rights and Atrocity Prevention Clinic, on behalf of slavery crimes expert Patricia Viseur Sellers, sent
commentaries to the United Nations International Law Commission (ILC) to revise in a similar fashion the Draft articles. The Rome Statute creates a wide impunity gap by omitting the slave trade entirely as a war crime and crime against humanity and by including only those conflict-related
slavery acts that include causing someone to engage in an act of a sexual nature. Specifically, the Rome Statute does not enumerate the slave trade or slavery under Article 8 as war crimes. It does not define the slave trade within the crime of enslavement under Article 7(g) as a crime against
humanity or explicitly enumerate the slave trade within the context of a widespread or systematic attack against a civilian population. War crimes conduct is not captured fully or explicitly under ICC jurisdiction because the Rome Statute sanctions only persons exercising powers attaching
to the rights of ownership who also cause that person to engage in an act of a sexual nature. Crimes against humanity conduct also escapes legal sanction when perpetrators transport or otherwise engage in any slave trade acts without exercising powers attaching to the right of ownership over
a person. Furthermore, the Rome Statute's bifurcation of enslavement and sexual slavery lead to non-factual, incomplete, and discriminatory results. Sexual slavery is enslavement; its separate enumeration as a crime against humanity has required some victims to prove additionally that they
were caused to engage in an act of a sexual nature in violation of non-discrimination and others' slavery harms to escape legal characterization altogether.
Disentangling to Fortify The Crimes of Slavery, the Slave Trade and Human Trafficking
Authors: Sellers Patricia Viseur , de Brouwer Anne-Marie , de Volder Eefje
Published: July 2024

This article offers a brief background to the crimes of human trafficking, slavery and the slave trade which often take place in and as a result of conflict situations, such as in Ukraine. These crimes are, however, often conflated and misunderstood: not only by the general public,
but also by professionals working in this field. Even though these crimes are commonly conflated, each crime has specific requirements or elements, and address egregious conduct.Their legal histories and policy base are distinct yet complementary. Their dual juridical availability could provide
meaningful, effective redress for women and men, both adult and child survivors. The article intends to contribute to untying the knots, to disentangle the misconceptions of human trafficking from the slave trade and slavery.The endeavour is not theoretical, but practical. It is done to fortify
the pursuit of human trafficking as a transnational crime and the slave trade and slavery as international crimes. In short, this article aims to explore, distinguish, and harmonise the available jurisdictions for human trafficking, slavery and the slave trade.
Survival analysis in breast cancer: evaluating ensemble learning techniques for prediction
Authors: Buyrukoğlu Gonca
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer is most commonly faced with form of cancer amongst women worldwide. In spite of the fact that the breast cancer research and awareness have gained considerable momentum, there is still no one treatment due to disease heterogeneity. Survival data may be of specific interest in breast cancer studies to understand its dynamic and complex trajectories. This study copes with the most important covariates affecting the disease progression. The study utilizes the German Breast Cancer Study Group 2 (GBSG2) and the Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium dataset (METABRIC) datasets. In both datasets, interests lie in relapse of the disease and the time when the relapse happens. The three models, namely the Cox proportional hazards (PH) model, random survival forest (RSF) and conditional inference forest (Cforest) were employed to analyse the breast cancer datasets. The goal of this study is to apply these methods in prediction of breast cancer progression and compare their performances based on two different estimation methods: the bootstrap estimation and the bootstrap .632 estimation. The model performance was evaluated in concordance index (C-index) and prediction error curves (pec) for discrimination. The Cox PH model has a lower C-index and bigger prediction error compared to the RSF and the Cforest approach for both datasets. The analysis results of GBSG2 and METABRIC datasets reveal that the RSF and the Cforest algorithms provide non-parametric alternatives to Cox PH model for estimation of the survival probability of breast cancer patients.
Investigating the regulatory role of HvANT2 in anthocyanin biosynthesis through protein–motif interaction in Qingke
Authors: Wang Yan , Chen Lin , Yao Youhua , Chen Lupeng , Cui Yongmei , An Likun , Li Xin , Bai Yixiong , Yao Xiaohua , Wu Kunlun
Published: July 2024

Background

Currently, there are no reports on the HvbHLH gene family in the recent barley genome (Morex_V3). Furthermore, the structural genes related to anthocyanin synthesis that interact with HvANT2 have yet to be fully identified.

Methods

In this study, a bioinformatics approach was used to systematically analyze the HvbHLH gene family. The expression of this gene family was analyzed through RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and the gene with the most significant expression level, HvANT2, was analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in different tissues of two differently colored varieties. Finally, structural genes related to anthocyanin synthesis and their interactions with HvANT2 were verified using a yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) assay.

Results

The study identified 161 bHLH genes, designated as HvbHLH1 to HvbHLH161, from the most recent barley genome available. Evolutionary tree analysis categorized barley bHLH TFs into 21 subfamilies, demonstrating a pronounced similarity to rice and maize. Through RNA-Seq analysis of purple and white grain Qingke, we discovered a significant transcription factor (TF), HvANT2 (HvbHLH78), associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis. Subsequently, HvANT2 protein-motifs interaction assays revealed 41 interacting motifs, three of which were validated through Y1H experiments. These validated motifs were found in the promoter regions of key structural genes (CHI, F3’H, and GT) integral to the anthocyanin synthesis pathway. These findings provide substantial evidence for the pivotal role of HvANT2 TF in anthocyanin biosynthesis.
Construction and validation of a prognostic model for gastric cancer patients with tumor deposits
Authors: Xu Ran , Zhang Yisheng , Wang Zhengguang , Chen Ke , Zhao Jun
Published: July 2024

Background

Tumor deposits (TD) was a significant risk factor impacting the prognosis of patients diagnosed with gastric cancer (GC), yet it was not currently incorporated into TNM staging systems. The objective of this research was to develop a predictive model for assessing the prognosis of patients with TD-positive GC.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed on the data of 4,972 patients treated for GC with D2 radical gastrectomy at Wannan Medical College’s Yijishan Hospital between January 2012 and December 2021. The patients were categorized based on the number of TD (L1: 1, L2: 2–3, L3: ≥4) and the anatomical location of TD (Q1: single area, Q2: multiple areas). In a 3:1 ratio, patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: training or validation.

Results

The study included a total of 575 patients who were divided into the training group (n = 432) and validation group (n = 143). Survival analysis showed that the number and anatomical location of TD had a significant impact on the prognosis of patients with TD-positive GC. Univariate analysis of the training group data revealed that tumor size, T-stage, N-stage, histological grade, number and distribution of TD, neural invasion, and postoperative chemotherapy were associated with prognosis. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified poor histological grade, T4 stage, N3 stage, number of TD, neural invasion, and postoperative chemotherapy as independent prognostic factors for GC patients with TD. A nomogram was developed using these variables, demonstrating well predictive ability for 1, 3, and 5-year overall survival (OS) in the validation set. The DCA curve shows that the constructed model shows a large positive net gain compared to the eighth edition Tumour, Node, Metastasis (TNM) staging system.

Conclusion

The prognostic model developed for patients with TD-positive GC has a higher clinical utility compared to the eighth edition of TNM staging.
Clinical Efficacy of Ozone Therapy in Peri-implant Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shah Bhoomi , Rajasekar Arvina
Published: July 2024

Introduction: With an increasing number of dental implants being placed each year, there has been a consequent rise in the frequency of peri-implant diseases. Ozone, a potent antibacterial agent, eliminates the microbes that cause infections around implants. Aim: To assess ozone therapy’s effectiveness of ozone therapy as an adjunct in the treatment of peri-implant diseases. Materials and Methods: A complete search was conducted in electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane, employing the eligibility criteria. After a thorough review, six studies published from 2013 to 2023 that evaluated the effectiveness of ozone therapy in clinical trials for the management of peri-implant diseases were included in this systematic review. Results: The six selected studies evaluated ozone therapy as a treatment for peri-implant diseases and evaluated relevant clinical indices. Four studies were in-vivo, out of which one evaluated peri-implantitis and three on peri-implant mucositis. Three studies showed a reduction in the Plaque Index (PI) during follow-up, while one study stated that it showed improvement at one month, with no significant further reduction seen. Two invitro studies stated that ozone therapy helped reduce bacterial adherence to the implant surface. Conclusion: Considering the findings of the previous studies, the present systematic review concludes that ozone therapy shows progressive improvement in the management of periimplant diseases.
Study of Seasonal Incidence of Rice Earhead Bug (Coreidae: Hemiptera)
Authors: Soneshwar Shreya , Vishwakarma Deepali , Sirohi A. Gyan , Kumar Sudish , Kumar Yogesh , Singh Sanju , Bhowmick A.K.
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the relationship between climatic factors and the population dynamics of the rice earhead bug (Leptocorisa acuta) in Balaghat district of Madhya Pradesh. Through correlational analysis, we examined the associations between rainfall, rainy days, morning relative humidity (RH), evening RH, evening vapour pressure, wind velocity, maximum temperature, morning vapour pressure, evaporation, sunshine, and the prevalence of rice earhead bugs. Results indicate a negative correlation between rice earhead bug population and both rainfall and rainy days, suggesting a potential suppression effect of increased precipitation on bug abundance. Morning RH, evening RH, evening vapour pressure, and wind velocity showed non-significant negative correlations with bug population, indicating that these factors may have limited influence on bug dynamics in our study area. Conversely, a positive non-significant correlation was observed between rice earhead bug population and maximum temperature, morning vapour pressure, evaporation, and sunshine. This implies that higher temperatures and increased solar radiation may have a subtle positive effect on bug abundance, although further investigation is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Overall, our findings shed light on the complex interplay between climatic factors and rice earhead bug dynamics, highlighting the importance of considering multiple variables in pest management strategies for rice cultivation.
Genetic Analysis of Heat Stress Tolerance in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Using Line x Tester Mating Design
Authors: Singh Tushadri , Jaiswal J. P. , Sheera Ashish
Published: July 2024

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a critical cereal crop, providing sustenance for over 35% of the global population. Bread wheat possesses remarkable adaptability to diverse climates and soil types. However, heat stress, exacerbated by global climate change, poses a significant threat to wheat production. Developing heat-tolerant wheat varieties is essential to ensuring food security. This study identified to identify genetic variance in heat tolerance through the Line × Tester analysis, a breeding tool that evaluates the combining ability of parental lines. The experimental material comprised 16 crosses derived from four high-yielding lines and four heat-tolerant testers. These were cultivated in Pantnagar, India, under late-sown conditions to replicate heat stress. Agronomic traits such as plant height, tiller number, grains per spike, days to maturity, and grain yield were evaluated. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to estimate general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA), providing insights into additive and non-additive genetic variances. Results indicated significant genetic variability among genotypes, with substantial non-additive genetic components influencing most traits. Plant height, for instance, demonstrated significant GCA and SCA variances, with SCA effects being more pronounced. Similarly, traits like the number of tillers per plant and grains per spike were predominantly controlled by non-additive genetic factors. The study revealed that hybrid combinations significantly influenced growth and yield traits, underscoring the importance of both GCA and SCA in breeding programs. The significant Line × Tester interactions suggest that specific combinations of parental lines and testers are crucial for achieving superior phenotypes. This study supports the notion that both additive and non-additive genetic effects are vital for crop improvement under heat stress, providing a robust foundation for future breeding programs aimed at enhancing wheat resilience to increasing temperatures.
Thin, Deformable, and Safety‐Reinforced Plastic Crystal Polymer Electrolytes for High‐Performance Flexible Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Choi Keun‐Ho , Cho Sung‐Ju , Kim Se‐Hee , Kwon Yo Han , Kim Je Young , Lee Sang‐Young
Published: July 2013

A new class of highly thin, deformable, and safety‐reinforced plastic crystal polymer electrolytes (N‐PCPEs) is demonstrated as an innovative solid electrolyte for potential use in high‐performance flexible lithium‐ion batteries with aesthetic versatility and robust safety. The unusual N‐PCPEs are fabricated by combining a plastic crystal polymer electrolyte with a porous polyethylene terephthalate (PET) nonwoven. Herein, the three‐dimensional reticulated plastic crystal polymer electrolyte matrix is formed directly inside the PET nonwoven skeleton via in‐situ UV‐crosslinking of ethoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate (ETPTA) monomer, under co‐presence of plastic crystal electrolyte. The PET nonwoven is incorporated as a compliant skeleton to enhance mechanical/dimensional strength of N‐PCPE. Owing to this structural uniqueness, the N‐PCPE shows significant improvements in the film thickness and deformability with maintaining advantageous features (such as high ionic conductivity and thermal stability) of the PCE. Based on structural/physicochemical characterization of N‐PCPE, its potential application as a solid electrolyte for flexible lithium‐ion batteries is explored by scrutinizing the electrochemical performance of cells. The high ionic conductance of N‐PCPE, along with its excellent deformability, plays a viable role in improving cell performance (particularly at high current densities and also mechanically deformed states). Notably, the cell assembled with N‐PCPE exhibits stable electrochemical performance even under a severely wrinkled state, without suffering from internal short‐circuit failures between electrodes.
Multilayered Heparin Hydrogel Microwells for Cultivation of Primary Hepatocytes
Authors: You Jungmok , Shin Dong‐Sik , Patel Dipali , Gao Yandong , Revzin Alexander
Published: July 2013

The biomaterial scaffolds for regenerative medicine need to be rationally designed to achieve the desired cell fate and function. This paper describes the development of hydrogel microstructures for cultivation of primary hepatocytes. Four different micropatterned surfaces are tested: 1) poly(ethyelene glycol) (PEG) microwells patterned on glass, 2) heparin hydrogel microwells patterned on glass, 3) PEG microwells patterned on heparin hydrogel‐coated substrates, and 4) heparin hydrogel microwells patterned on heparin hydrogel‐coated substrates. The latter surfaces are constructed by a combination of micromolding and microcontact printing techniques to create microwells with both walls and floor composed of heparin hydrogel. Individual microwell dimensions are 200 μm diameter and 20 μm in height. In all cases, the floor of the microwells is modified with collagen I to promote cell adhesion. Cultivation of hepatocytes followed by analysis of hepatic markers (urea production, albumin synthesis, and E‐cadherin expression) reveals that the all‐heparin gel microwells are most conducive to hepatic phenotype maintenance. For example, ELISA analysis shows 2.3 to 13.1 times higher levels of albumin production in all‐heparin gel wells compared with other micropatterned surfaces. Importantly, hepatic phenotype expression can be further enhanced by culturing fibroblasts on the heparin gel walls of the microwells. In the future, multicomponent all‐heparin gel microstructures may be employed in designing hepatic niche for liver‐specific differentiation of stem cells.
Development of Luminescent pH Sensor Films for Monitoring Bacterial Growth Through Tissue
Authors: Wang Fenglin , Raval Yash , Chen Hongyu , Tzeng Tzuen‐Rong J. , DesJardins John D. , Anker Jeffrey N.
Published: July 2013

Although implanted medical devices (IMDs) offer many benefits, they are susceptible to bacterial colonization and infections. Such infections are difficult to treat because bacteria could form biofilms on the implant surface, which reduce antibiotics penetration and generate local dormant regions with low pH and low oxygen. In addition, these infections are hard to detect early because biofilms are often localized on the surface. Herein, an optical sensor film is developed to detect local acidosis on an implanted surface. The film contains both upconverting particles (UCPs) that serve as a light source and a pH indicator that alters the luminescence spectrum. When irradiated with 980 nm light, the UCPs produce deeply penetrating red light emission, while generating negligible autofluorescence in the tissue. The basic form of the pH indicator absorbs more of upconversion luminescence at 661 nm than at 671 nm and consequently the spectral ratio indicates pH. Implanting this pH sensor film beneath 6–7 mm of porcine tissue does not substantially affect the calibration curve because the peaks are closely spaced. Furthermore, growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis on the sensor surface causes a local pH decrease that can be detected non‐invasively through the tissue.
Monodispersed Bioactive Glass Submicron Particles and Their Effect on Bone Marrow and Adipose Tissue‐Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Tsigkou Olga , Labbaf Sheyda , Stevens Molly M. , Porter Alexandra E. , Jones Julian R.
Published: July 2013

Spherical monodispersed bioactive particles are potential candidates for nanocomposite synthesis or as injectable particles that could be internalized by cells for the local sustained delivery of inorganic therapeutic ions (e.g., calcium or strontium). Particles are also likely to be released from porous bioactive glass and sol–gel hybrid scaffolds as they degrade; thus, it is vital to investigate their interaction with cells. Spherical monodispersed bioactive glass particles (mono‐SMBG), with diameters of 215 ± 20 nm are synthesized using a modified Stöber process. Confocal and transmission electron microscopy demonstrate that mono‐SMBGs are internalized by human bone marrow (MSCs) and adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) and located within cell vesicles and in the cytoplasm. Particle dissolution inside the cells is observed. Alamar Blue, MTT and Cyquant assays demonstrate that 50 μg mL−1 of mono‐SMBGs did not inhibit significantly MSC or ADSC metabolic activity. However, at higher concentrations (100 and 200 μg mL−1) small decrease in metabolic activity and total DNA is observed. Mono‐SMBG did not induce ALPase activity, an early marker of osteogenic differentiation, without osteogenic supplements; however, in their presence osteogenic differentiation is achieved. Additionally, large numbers of particles are internalized by the cells but have little effect on cell behavior.
Quantification of Whole Body and Excreted Carbon Nanohorns Intravenously Injected into Mice
Authors: Zhang Minfang , Tahara Yoshio , Yang Mei , Zhou Xin , Iijima Sumio , Yudasaka Masako
Published: July 2013

With the increase in the projected use of nanocarbons, such as carbon nanohorns (CNHs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and nanographenes, in medicine, the biodegradation and excretion of these materials has attracted increasing interest. Here, the excretion and pharmacokinetics of Gd2O3 nanoparticle labels encapsulated within CNHs after their intravenous injection into mice is studied. The results show that CNHs quantitatively changed with the postinjection time in blood vessels, livers, and other organs. About 40% of the injected CNHs are lost from the mouse body at a postinjection time of 30 d; 15% are excreted in feces, most likely via the bililary pathway into the intestine, whereas the remaining 25% are inferred to be partly or completely degraded.
Influence of Silicon Nanoscale Building Blocks Size and Carbon Coating on the Performance of Micro‐Sized Si–C Composite Li‐Ion Anodes
Authors: Yi Ran , Dai Fang , Gordin Mikhail L. , Sohn Hiesang , Wang Donghai
Published: July 2013

Silicon has been intensively pursued as the most promising anode material for Li‐ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity of 3579 mAh/g. Micro‐sized Si–C composites composed of nanoscale primary building blocks are attractive Si‐based anodes for practical application because they not only achieve excellent cycling stability, but also offer both gravimetric and volumetric capacity. However, the effects of key parameters in designing such materials on their electrochemical performance are unknown and how to optimize them thus remains to be explored. Herein, the influence of Si nanoscale building block size and carbon coating on the electrochemical performance of the micro‐sized Si–C composites is investigated. It is found that the critical Si building block size is 15 nm, which enables a high capacity without compromising the cycling stability, and that carbon coating at higher temperature improves the first cycle coulombic efficiency (CE) and the rate capability. Corresponding reasons underlying electrochemical performance are revealed by various characterizations. Combining both optimized Si building block size and carbon coating temperature, the resultant composite can sustain 600 cycles at 1.2 A/g with a fixed lithiation capacity of 1200 mAh/g, the best cycling performance with such a high capacity for micro‐sized Si‐based anodes.
The Neal Amundson era. Rapid evolution of chemical engineering science
Authors: Ramkrishna Doraiswami
Published: July 2013

Neal Amundson (1916–2011) influenced the chemical engineering profession more profoundly than any other single individual, and in this article the author has attempted to capture the man and his era, as well as his lasting legacy. His influence extended well beyond those of other chemical engineers of renown, whether they were known for exploring and establishing new avenues, or for the resolution of outstanding issues, or for other forms of creative endeavors. Amundson reached into the depths of the profession, noted for its expanse, complexity and diversity that had led earlier efforts into a shrine of empiricism, to foster a culture of strongly scientific thinking with a mathematical edifice, which must be the crux of all engineering. The growth of chemical engineering science owes most significantly to Amundson's extraordinary role as an educator, department head and leader, and to the lasting impact of his contributions to chemical engineering research and practice. This article is in salutation of the man who came to be known as the Minnesota Chief, and was responsible for an academic movement that raised the intellectual level of the chemical engineering profession. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 3147–3157, 2013
Multiplicative interaction between mean corpuscular volume and red cell distribution width in predicting mortality of elderly patients with and without anemia
Authors: Lam Anthony P. , Gundabolu Krishna , Sridharan Ashwin , Jain Rishi , Msaouel Pavlos , Chrysofakis Grigorios , Yu Yiting , Friedman Ellen , Price Elizabeth , Schrier Stanley , Verma Amit K.
Published: July 2013

Recent studies have shown that an elevated red cell distribution width (RDW) is an important predictor of adverse outcomes. However, the strength of this biomarker has not been tested in a large outpatient elderly population. Also since increased RDW can be due to a variety of etiologies, additional biomarkers are needed to refine the prognostic value of this variable. We assembled a cohort of 36,226 elderly (≥65yo) patients seen at an outpatient facility within the Einstein/Montefiore system from January 1st 1997 to May 1st 2008 who also had a complete blood count performed within 3 months of the initial visit. With a maximum follow‐up of 10 years, we found that an elevated RDW (>16.6) was associated with increased risk of mortality in both non‐anemic (HR = 3.66, p < 0.05) and anemic patients (HR = 1.87, p < 0.05). The effect of RDW on mortality is significantly increased in non‐anemic patients with macrocytosis (HR = 5.22, p < 0.05) compared to those with normocytosis (HR = 3.86, p < 0.05) and microcytosis (HR = 2.46, p < 0.05). When comparing non‐anemic patients with both an elevated RDW and macrocytosis to those with neither, we observed an elevated HR of 7.76 (higher than expected in an additive model). This multiplicative interaction was not observed in anemic patients (HR = 2.23). Lastly, we constructed Kaplan‐Meier curves for each RDW/MCV subgroup and found worsened survival for those with macrocytosis and an elevated RDW in both anemia and non‐anemic patients. Based on our results, the addition of MCV appears to improve the prognostic value of RDW as a predictor of overall survival in elderly patients. Am. J. Heamtol. 88:E245–E249, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Liver stiffness increases acutely during sickle cell vaso‐occlusive crisis
Authors: Koh Christopher , Turner Tiffany , Zhao Xiongce , Minniti Caterina P. , Feld Jordan J. , Simpson Jennifer , Demino Mary , Conrey Anna K. , Jackson Mary J. , Seamon Catherine , Kleiner David E. , Kato Gregory J. , Heller Theo
Published: July 2013

Acute vaso‐occlusive crisis (VOC) in sickle cell disease (SCD) is an important cause of end‐organ damage. It is estimated that 10–39% of VOC occurs with hepatic involvement. Current assessments of hepatic involvement during VOC are unsatisfactory. We investigated transient elastography (TE) as a marker of hepatic involvement, its relationship with histology, and biochemical markers during VOC. SCD patients were evaluated with biochemical markers and TE at steady‐state and during VOC. Change in TE and biochemical markers were correlated with length of hospital stay. When available, liver biopsy and tricuspid regurgitation velocity (TRV) at steady‐state were correlated with TE. Twenty‐three patients were evaluated (mean age = 34.3 years, standard deviation = 7.96). In 15 patients with liver biopsies, TE correlated with fibrosis (P = 0.01) and TRV (P = 0.0063), but not hepatic iron. Hemolysis biomarkers changed during VOC (P < 0.022), but not alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Paired comparison of TE at steady‐state and during VOC showed an increased from 6.2 to 12.3 kPa (P = 0.0029). Increasing TE during VOC associated with increasing ALT and alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.0088 and 0.0099, respectively). At steady‐state, increasing inflammation on biopsy (P = 0.0037) and TRV (P = 0.0075) correlated with increasing TE during VOC. Increased hospital stay was associated with higher ALT (P = 0.041), lower albumin (P = 0.046), hemoglobin/hematocrit (P < 0.0021) but not TE. TE may identify patients with hepatic involvement during VOC independent of biochemical measures. Increase in TE may reflect both hepatic passive congestion and hepatic involvement during VOC. TE may serve as a physiological biomarker for hepatic features of VOC. Am. J. Heamtol. 88:E250–E254, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A dose‐escalation phase IIa study of 2,2‐dimethylbutyrate (HQK‐1001), an oral fetal globin inducer, in sickle cell disease
Authors: Kutlar Abdullah , Reid Marvin E. , Inati Adlette , Taher Ali T. , Abboud Miguel R. , El‐Beshlawy Amal , Buchanan George R. , Smith Hedy , Ataga Kenneth I. , Perrine Susan P. , Ghalie Richard G.
Published: July 2013

2,2‐dimethylbutyrate (HQK‐1001), an orally‐bioavailable promoter‐targeted fetal globin gene‐inducing agent, was evaluated in an open‐label, randomized dose‐escalation study in 52 subjects with hemoglobin SS or S/β0 thalassemia. HQK‐1001 was administered daily for 26 weeks at 30 mg/kg (n = 15), 40 mg/kg (n = 18) and 50 mg/kg (n = 19), either alone (n = 21) or with hydroxyurea (n = 31). The most common drug‐related adverse events were usually mild or moderate and reversible. Gastritis was graded as severe in three subjects at 40 mg/kg and was considered the dose‐limiting toxicity. Subsequently all subjects were switched to the maximum tolerated dose of 30 mg/kg. Due to early discontinuations for blood transfusions, adverse events or non‐compliance, only 25 subjects (48%) completed the study. Drug plasma concentrations were sustained above targeted levels at 30 mg/kg. Increases in fetal hemoglobin (Hb F) were observed in 42 subjects (80%), and 12 (23%) had increases ≥4%. The mean increase in Hb F was 2% [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.8–3.2%] in 21 subjects receiving HQK‐1001 alone and 2.7% (95% CI, 1.7–3.8%) in 31 subjects receiving HQK‐1001 plus hydroxyurea. Total hemoglobin increased by a mean of 0.65 g/dL (95% CI, 0.5–1.0 g/dL), and 13 subjects (25%) had increases ≥1 g/dL. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the therapeutic potential of HQK‐1001 in sickle cell disease. Am. J. Heamtol. 88:E255–E260, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Safety and efficacy of total dose infusion of 1,020 mg of ferumoxytol administered over 15 min
Authors: Auerbach Michael , Strauss William , Auerbach Sarah , Rineer Stella , Bahrain Huzefa
Published: July 2013

For the majority of patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA), a full course of intravenous (IV) iron is 1 g. Most IV irons require 5–10 administrations of 100–300 mg. We have successfully employed 1 g low molecular weight iron dextran over 1 hr. For further convenience for patients and physicians, we explored the administration of 1.02 g of ferumoxytol over 15 min instead of the approved 2 × 510 mg injections. Sixty patients with IDA, (hemoglobin <11 g/dL, transferrin saturation [TSAT] ≤20%, and ferritin <100 ng/mL) with an inadequate response or intolerance to oral iron, received 1020 mg ferumoxytol over 15 min. Vital signs were measured for 1 hr. Adverse events (AEs) were collected via telephone at 1, 2, and 7 days. Follow‐up visits occurred at 4 and 8 weeks for efficacy assessments. The primary endpoint was safety and tolerability. Secondary efficacy endpoints included mean change in hemoglobin, TSAT, and red cell distribution width. No serious adverse events (SAEs) occurred. Fifty‐eight patients received the planned dose. Twenty‐six out of sixty (43.3%) patients reported AEs of which 13 were mild and transient during infusion. All resolved within minutes. Fourteen patients reported self‐limited arthralgias, myalgias, and/or headache within 24–48 hr. At Baseline, the mean hemoglobin was 9.4 g/dL. The mean increments at Week 4 and 8 were 2.1 and 2.6 g/dL, respectively. Ferumoxytol, administered as 1.02 g infusion over 15 min was well tolerated with no SAEs and demonstrated excellent efficacy. If corroborated in future studies this represents an improved method of treating IDA. Am. J. Heamtol. 88:944–947, 2013. © 2013 The Authors. American Journal of Hematology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of the role of secretory sphingomyelinase and bioactive sphingolipids as biomarkers in hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Jenkins Russell W. , Clarke Christopher J. , Lucas John Thomas , Shabbir Munira , Wu Bill X. , Simbari Fabio , Mueller Joan , Hannun Yusuf A. , Lazarchick John , Shirai Keisuke
Published: July 2013

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare systemic inflammatory syndrome that results from unrestrained immune cell activation. Despite significant advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of HLH, interventions remain limited for this often‐fatal condition. Secretory sphingomyelinase (S‐SMase) is a pro‐inflammatory lipid hydrolase that is upregulated in several inflammatory conditions, including HLH. S‐SMase promotes the formation of ceramide, a bioactive lipid implicated in several human disease states. However, the role of the S‐SMase/ceramide pathway in HLH remains unexplored. To further evaluate the role of S‐SMase upregulation in HLH, we tested the serum of patients with HLH (n = 16; primary = 3, secondary = 13) and healthy control patients (n = 25) for serum S‐SMase activity with tandem sphingolipid metabolomic profiling. Patients with HLH exhibited elevated levels of serum S‐SMase activity, with concomitant elevations in several ceramide species and sphingosine, while levels of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate were significantly decreased. Importantly, the ratio of C16‐ceramide:sphingosine was uniquely elevated in HLH patients that died despite appropriate treatment, but remained low in HLH patients that survived, suggesting that this ratio may be of prognostic significance. Together, these results demonstrate upregulation of the S‐SMase/ceramide pathway in HLH, and suggest that the balance of ceramide and sphingosine determine clinical outcomes in HLH. Am. J. Heamtol. 88:E265–E272, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
No association between simian virus 40 and diffuse malignant mesothelioma of the pleura in Iranian patients: A molecular and epidemiologic case–control study of 60 patients
Authors: Mohammad‐Taheri Zohreh , Nadji Seyed Alireza , Raisi Farshid , Mohammadi Forouzan , Bahadori Moslem , Mark Eugene Jerome
Published: July 2013

Background

Diffuse malignant mesothelioma (DMM) is increasing in incidence on a worldwide basis and is linked to exposure to asbestos. Simian virus 40 (SV40), a DNA virus, was introduced inadvertently to human populations through contaminated polio vaccine during the years 1956–1963. It has been associated with various types of malignancy in animal experiments. There have been suggestions that SV40 might play a role in the pathogenesis of DMM.

Objective

To evaluate the association between SV40 and DMM in Iranian patients.

Method

In a case–control study between the years 2007–2008, isolated DNA from 60 paraffin blocks of patients with DMM and 60 controls was assessed to detect three human polyomaviruses (JCV, BKV, and SV40) using three different sets of primers by multiplex nested PCR analysis. We related the patients with diffuse malignant mesotheioma to possible sites of exposure to asbestos.

Results

None of the DMMs nor any patient in the control group had SV40 genome on polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All of the cases were SV40 T antigen negative.

Conclusion

This study suggests that DMM is independent of SV40 infection in Iran. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:1221–1225, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Migratorische Insertion von Alkenen in Metall‐Sauerstoff‐ und Metall‐Stickstoff‐Bindungen
Authors: Hanley Patrick S. , Hartwig John F.
Published: July 2013

Die Insertion ungesättigter Liganden in M‐C‐ oder M‐H‐Bindungen verläuft über eine migratorische Insertion, die eine fundamentale metallorganische Reaktion ist. Jüngste Berichte bestätigen migratorische Insertionen von Alkenen in M‐O‐ und M‐N‐Bindungen im Verlauf von Alkenalkoxylierungen bzw. Alkenaminierungen. Wir geben hier einen Überblick über den Stand der Literatur und wollen außerdem betrachten, wie diese jüngsten Studien mit klassischen Experimenten der Bildung von C‐O‐ und C‐N‐Bindungen mit Alkenkomplexen später Übergangsmetalle zusammenhängen.
A Highly Conjugated Benzimidazole Carbene‐Based Ruthenium Sensitizer for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Ho Shih‐Yu , Su Chaochin , Li Chung‐Yen , Prabakaran Kumaresan , Shen Ming‐Tai , Chen Ying‐Fan , Chang Wei‐Chun , Tingare Yogesh S. , Akula Suribabu , Tsai Sheng‐Han , Li Wen‐Ren
Published: July 2013

A new type of carbene‐based ruthenium sensitizer, CB104, with a highly conjugated ancillary ligand, diphenylvinylthiophene‐substituted benzimidazolepyridine, was designed and developed for dye‐sensitized solar cell applications. The influence of the thiophene antenna on the performance of the cell anchored with CB104 was investigated. Compared with the dye CBTR, the conjugated thiophene in the ancillary ligand of CB104 enhanced the molar extinction coefficient of the intraligand π–π* transition and the intensity of the lower energy metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer band. However, the incident photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency spectrum of the cell anchored with CB104 (0.15 mM) showed a maximum of 63 % at 420 nm. The cell sensitized with the dye CB104 attained a power conversion efficiency of 7.30 %, which was lower than that of the cell with nonconjugated sensitizer CBTR (8.92 %) under the same fabrication conditions. The variation in the performance of these two dyes demonstrated that elongating the conjugated light‐harvesting antenna resulted in the reduction of short‐circuit photocurrent density, which might have been due to the aggregation of dye molecules. In the presence of a coabsorbate, chenodeoxycholic acid, the CB104‐sensitized cell exhibited an enhanced photocurrent density and achieved a photovoltaic efficiency of 8.36 %.
Guaranteed Cost Stabilization of Cellular Neural Networks with Time‐Varying Delay
Authors: He Hanlin , Yan Lu , Tu Jianjun
Published: July 2013

Guaranteed cost stabilization of cellular neural networks with time‐varying delay (DCNNs) is considered in this paper. Via applying the zoned discussion and maximum synthesis (ZDMS) in DCNNs and Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, a less conservative feedback control law in the form of quadratic matrix inequality (QMI) is derived to achieve globally asymptotic stability of the system.
Segmental folding of chromosomes: A basis for structural and regulatory chromosomal neighborhoods?
Authors: Nora Elphège P. , Dekker Job , Heard Edith
Published: July 2013

We discuss here a series of testable hypotheses concerning the role of chromosome folding into topologically associating domains (TADs). Several lines of evidence suggest that segmental packaging of chromosomal neighborhoods may underlie features of chromatin that span large domains, such as heterochromatin blocks, association with the nuclear lamina and replication timing. By defining which DNA elements preferentially contact each other, the segmentation of chromosomes into TADs may also underlie many properties of long‐range transcriptional regulation. Several observations suggest that TADs can indeed provide a structural basis to regulatory landscapes, by controlling enhancer sharing and allocation. We also discuss how TADs may shape the evolution of chromosomes, by causing maintenance of synteny over large chromosomal segments. Finally we suggest a series of experiments to challenge these ideas and provide concrete examples illustrating how they could be practically applied.